GoPro HD Hero Waterproof Action Camera Camcorder with Accessories Review

The GoPro HD Hero Waterproof Action Camera Camcorder delivers rugged, high-definition performance ideal for adrenaline-fueled adventures. Waterproof up to 197 feet and bundled with essential mounts and accessories, it captures smooth 1080p video and 5MP photos in extreme conditions. Its compact design, intuitive controls, and reliable durability make it a top choice for action enthusiasts seeking professional-quality footage without the hassle.

Key Takeaways

• Waterproof up to 197ft: Shoot underwater without extra housing.
• 1080p HD video: Capture crisp, high-quality action footage.
• Wide-angle lens: Fits more in frame for immersive shots.
• Includes essential mounts: Attach easily to helmets, bikes, and more.
• Long battery life: Record up to 2.5 hours on one charge.
• Quick-release design: Swap mounts fast during active shoots.

Why the GoPro HD Hero Waterproof Action Camera Camcorder Is Still Worth Your Attention

Remember the first time you tried to capture a mountain biking run, a surfing wipeout, or a family kayaking trip—only to end up with shaky, blurry, or completely unusable footage? We’ve all been there. The frustration of missing the perfect moment because your camera just couldn’t keep up is real. That’s where the GoPro HD Hero waterproof action camera camcorder with accessories steps in—not as a flashy new model, but as a rugged, reliable, and surprisingly capable tool that’s stood the test of time.

Even though newer GoPro models like the Hero12 or Max dominate headlines, the HD Hero (and its successors in the early HD series) remains a cult favorite for adventurers, vloggers, and budget-conscious creators. Why? Because it proves that you don’t always need the latest tech to capture stunning, stable, and immersive footage. Whether you’re diving into a lake, snowboarding down a slope, or chasing your dog around the yard, this little cube-shaped camcorder punches way above its weight. In this review, we’ll break down what makes the GoPro HD Hero a solid choice, where it falls short, and how the included accessories can turn it into a full-fledged content creation kit—without breaking the bank.

What Makes the GoPro HD Hero Stand Out?

Compact Design That Fits Anywhere

The first thing you’ll notice about the GoPro HD Hero is its size. It’s tiny—about the size of a small matchbox—and weighs just 170 grams (with housing). That means you can mount it on a helmet, a bike handlebar, a surfboard, or even a dog harness (yes, people do that). The compact shape also makes it easy to tuck into a pocket when you’re not using it. Unlike bulkier camcorders, this one doesn’t scream “expensive gear,” which is a plus if you’re in crowded or remote areas.

I once took mine on a weekend hiking trip in the Rockies. I mounted it on my backpack strap using the included adhesive mount and forgot it was there—until I reviewed the footage later. The camera had captured every turn, every stream crossing, and even a curious squirrel that followed us for 20 minutes. The fact that it stayed secure and didn’t weigh me down made all the difference.

True Waterproof Performance (No Extra Cost)

One of the biggest selling points of the GoPro HD Hero waterproof action camera camcorder with accessories is that it’s truly waterproof—right out of the box. The camera comes with a rugged, sealed housing that’s rated for depths up to 180 feet (60 meters). That means you can snorkel, scuba dive, surf, or kayak without worrying about water damage. No need to buy a separate underwater case, which saves you $30–$50 compared to other action cams.

During a family trip to Lake Tahoe, I used mine to record underwater shots of my kids jumping off a dock. The camera handled the cold water, splashes, and even a brief submersion when a wave knocked it loose from my grip. The footage? Crisp, colorful, and completely usable. No fog, no leaks, no issues.

Surprisingly Good Video Quality for Its Age

Released in 2009 (yes, it’s over a decade old), the HD Hero records 1080p at 30fps or 720p at 60fps. While that might not sound impressive today, it’s more than enough for most casual users and even some semi-pro creators. The 170-degree wide-angle lens captures immersive, fisheye-style footage that puts viewers right in the middle of the action.

For example, when I filmed a mountain biking trail, the camera captured the entire path ahead, including the trees on both sides and the trail markers. It made the viewer feel like they were riding along with me. The dynamic range isn’t perfect—bright skies can blow out, and shadows can look muddy—but for fast-moving outdoor scenes, it performs admirably.

Accessories Included: More Than Just Mounts

The Mounting System That Adapts to Your Life

One of the standout features of the GoPro HD Hero waterproof action camera camcorder with accessories is the sheer variety of mounts and adapters included in most kits. You typically get:

• Adhesive mounts (for helmets, bikes, boards)
• Handlebar/roll bar mount (great for bikes, motorcycles, ATVs)
• Suction cup mount (for cars, boats, windows)
• Head strap (hands-free POV footage)
• Tripod adapter (for stationary shots or vlogging)
• Wrist strap (so you don’t drop it in the water)

I used the handlebar mount during a weekend motorcycle trip through the Pacific Northwest. The camera stayed rock-solid even at 65 mph, and the footage was smooth and immersive. The head strap, meanwhile, came in handy when I wanted to film a first-person view of a rock-climbing session—my hands were free, and the camera stayed level.

Expand Your Creative Options with Add-Ons

While the included accessories cover the basics, the GoPro ecosystem allows for serious customization. Want to get low-angle shots? Add a dog harness (yes, really—dogs love it). Need to film at night? Use a GoPro light mod or pair it with an external LED. Want to record audio? Attach an external mic (more on that later).

Here’s a pro tip: Use the Jaws Flex Clamp (sold separately) to attach the camera to railings, trees, or even your backpack strap at odd angles. I used it to film a time-lapse of a sunset from a boat’s railing—it held tight, and the footage was stunning.

Storage and Power: What You Need to Know

The HD Hero uses standard SD/SDHC cards (up to 32GB), which are cheap and widely available. A 32GB card gives you about 4 hours of 1080p footage—plenty for a day of adventure. The battery life is around 2–2.5 hours of continuous recording, which is decent for an older model.

But here’s a real-world tip: Buy a second battery. I learned this the hard way when my camera died halfway through a 3-hour hike. Now, I keep a spare charged and in my pack. Also, use the USB charging feature—you can charge it in the car, from a power bank, or even a laptop. That’s a lifesaver when you’re off-grid.

Video and Photo Performance: What to Expect

Resolution, Frame Rates, and Real-World Results

The HD Hero offers three main recording modes:

• 1080p at 30fps – Great for general use, smooth motion, and detailed scenes.
• 960p at 30fps – Taller aspect ratio (3:2), good for vertical mounting or unique framing.
• 720p at 60fps – Smoother slow-motion footage, ideal for fast action like sports or wildlife.

I tested all three during a surfing trip. The 1080p mode captured the waves and horizon beautifully. The 720p/60fps mode let me slow down the footage and see every detail of a wipeout—my board flying, water spraying, and my face mid-scream. The 960p mode was useful when I mounted the camera vertically on my surfboard for a unique POV shot.

Low-Light and Night Performance

Let’s be honest: The HD Hero isn’t a low-light champ. In dim conditions (like dusk or a cloudy day), footage gets grainy, and colors fade. But it’s not unusable. I once filmed a campfire scene at night using the 720p/60fps mode. The fire glowed brightly, and people’s faces were visible (though a bit noisy). For best results:

• Use a higher ISO setting (if available in your firmware version)
• Mount the camera on a stable surface
• Use an external light source (like a headlamp or LED)

For night rides or urban exploration, consider pairing it with a GoPro Light Mod—it’s a small LED that clips onto the housing and dramatically improves visibility.

Photo Capabilities: More Than Just Snapshots

The HD Hero takes 5MP still photos—not high-res by today’s standards, but more than enough for social media, blogs, or personal memories. It supports burst mode (10 shots in 2 seconds) and time-lapse (1, 2, 5, 10, 30, or 60-second intervals).

I used the time-lapse feature to capture a sunrise over a mountain lake. Set the camera on a tripod, chose 10-second intervals, and let it run for 2 hours. The resulting video showed the sky shifting from deep blue to golden orange, with mist rising off the water. It was magical—and the 5MP photos were sharp enough to print 8x10s.

Audio, Usability, and Everyday Challenges

Built-in Mic: Good, But Not Great

The HD Hero has a built-in microphone that works well in quiet environments. But in windy or noisy settings (like a bike ride or concert), it picks up a lot of wind noise and muffles voices. The audio is mono, not stereo, so it lacks depth.

Solution? Use an external microphone. The camera has a 3.5mm mic input (on some versions), so you can plug in a lavalier mic, shotgun mic, or even a smartphone-style headset. I used a $20 lavalier mic during a family hiking vlog, and the voice clarity improved dramatically. Just remember: the mic must be waterproof if you’re using the housing.

Ease of Use: Simple, But Not Perfect

The interface is basic—three buttons (power, shutter, mode) and a small LCD screen. It’s intuitive, but there are quirks:

• The screen is tiny and hard to read in bright sunlight.
• No touchscreen, so changing settings takes a few extra presses.
• No Wi-Fi or app control (unlike newer models).

That said, it’s refreshingly simple. No menus to dig through, no software to install. Turn it on, press record, and go. I’ve handed it to friends with zero camera experience, and they’ve gotten great footage on the first try.

Durability and Long-Term Reliability

The HD Hero is built like a tank. The housing is made of polycarbonate, and the lens is scratch-resistant. I’ve dropped mine in mud, snow, and sand, and it still works perfectly. The only wear and tear I’ve seen is minor scratches on the housing—which you can replace for $10.

One caveat: The battery door seal can wear out over time. If you notice moisture inside, check the O-ring. A replacement seal costs a few bucks and takes 5 minutes to install.

Comparing the GoPro HD Hero to Modern Alternatives

Performance vs. Price: Where It Fits In

Here’s the truth: The HD Hero isn’t the best action camera on the market. Newer models like the Hero12, DJI Osmo Action 4, or Insta360 X3 offer better stabilization, higher resolution, and smarter features (like voice control and AI editing). But they also cost $300–$600.

The HD Hero, on the other hand, can often be found for under $100 (used or refurbished) with a full accessory kit. That’s a steal if you’re on a budget or just want a reliable backup camera.

Data Table: GoPro HD Hero vs. Modern Competitors

Feature	GoPro HD Hero	GoPro Hero12	DJI Osmo Action 4	Insta360 X3
Max Resolution	1080p	5.3K	4K	5.7K 360°
Frame Rates	30/60fps	60/120fps	60/120fps	60/120fps
Waterproof Depth	180 ft (60m)	33 ft (10m) – 196 ft (60m) with case	33 ft (10m) – 196 ft (60m) with case	33 ft (10m) – 196 ft (60m) with case
Stabilization	None	HyperSmooth 6.0	RockSteady 3.0	FlowState
Audio Input	3.5mm (some models)	USB-C + 3.5mm	USB-C	USB-C
Price (New)	$50–$100 (used)	$399	$399	$449

As you can see, the HD Hero holds its own in waterproofing and simplicity, but lacks modern features like stabilization and high-res video. It’s ideal for:

• Beginners who want to try action cams without a big investment
• Secondary cameras for multi-angle shots
• Outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize durability over specs

Final Verdict: Is the GoPro HD Hero Right for You?

After months of using the GoPro HD Hero waterproof action camera camcorder with accessories in real-world scenarios—from hiking and biking to swimming and family events—I’ve come to appreciate its simplicity, durability, and value. It’s not perfect, but it’s dependable. It doesn’t have 4K, touchscreens, or voice control, but it does have something more important: reliability in the field.

If you’re a thrill-seeker, a parent capturing kids’ adventures, or a content creator on a tight budget, this camera delivers. The included accessories turn it into a versatile tool, and the waterproof housing means you can take it almost anywhere. Sure, the audio could be better, the low-light performance is limited, and the interface feels dated—but for under $100, it’s hard to find a better entry point into the world of action cameras.

Think of it this way: The HD Hero is like an old pickup truck. It’s not the flashiest or fastest, but it starts every time, carries a load, and gets you where you need to go—no matter the weather. If you want to capture life’s wildest moments without stressing about gear, this little camcorder is still a winner. And with the right accessories and a bit of creativity, your footage can be just as compelling as anything from a $600 flagship model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GoPro HD Hero Waterproof Action Camera truly waterproof without a case?

The GoPro HD Hero is waterproof up to 197 feet (60 meters) when used with its included housing, making it ideal for snorkeling, surfing, or rainy adventures. However, the bare camera itself is only splash-resistant and requires the housing for full waterproof protection.

What accessories are included with the GoPro HD Hero Waterproof Action Camera?

This bundle typically includes mounts (suction cup, adhesive, head strap), a 3-way pivot arm, USB cable, and protective housing. Some kits also add spare batteries, memory cards, or a carrying case—check the product description for specifics.

Can I record audio with the GoPro HD Hero while it’s in the waterproof case?

Yes, the housing features a built-in mic that records audio, though wind and water noise may affect quality. For clearer sound, consider using an external mic (sold separately) or recording voiceovers later.

How does the GoPro HD Hero compare to newer models like the HERO12 Black?

The HD Hero offers 1080p resolution and basic stabilization, while newer models provide 5.3K video, HyperSmooth stabilization, and advanced features. It’s a budget-friendly pick for casual users but lacks modern pro-grade upgrades.

What’s the maximum SD card capacity supported by the GoPro HD Hero?

The HD Hero supports SD cards up to 32GB (Class 4 or higher). Larger cards may not be recognized, so stick to this limit for reliable recording and avoid interruptions during long shoots.

Does the GoPro HD Hero have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for live streaming?

No, this model lacks built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity. To share footage, you’ll need to manually transfer files via USB or SD card—unlike newer GoPros with wireless streaming and app support.