GoPro Hero 4 Waterproof 4K Action Camera Kit Silver Review

The GoPro Hero 4 Silver delivers stunning 4K video and 12MP photos in a rugged, waterproof design, making it a top-tier choice for adventurers and content creators. Its intuitive touchscreen and built-in Wi-Fi/Bluetooth streamline control and sharing, while the included waterproof housing ensures reliability up to 131 feet underwater. This kit offers pro-level performance without the complexity.

Key Takeaways

• 4K video quality: Capture ultra-sharp footage with stunning clarity in any environment.
• Waterproof design: Submerge up to 131 feet without extra housing for deep adventures.
• Versatile mounting: Kit includes mounts for bikes, helmets, and more—ready to film instantly.
• Wireless control: Use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for remote access and easy sharing via GoPro app.
• ProTune mode: Adjust settings manually for professional-grade color and exposure control.

Why the GoPro Hero 4 Silver Might Be Your New Adventure Sidekick

Let’s be honest—life’s most unforgettable moments don’t happen in slow motion. Whether you’re diving into the ocean’s depths, shredding down a mountain trail, or capturing your kid’s first bike ride, you need a camera that can keep up. Enter the GoPro Hero 4 Waterproof 4K Action Camera Kit Silver. This little powerhouse isn’t just another gadget; it’s a storyteller built for the wild, the wet, and the downright messy. I’ve had mine for over two years, and after countless hikes, beach days, and even a few accidental drops (oops), I can confidently say it’s earned its place in my adventure toolkit.

But here’s the thing: not all action cameras are created equal. The Hero 4 Silver sits in a sweet spot between affordability and performance. It’s not the latest model (that’d be the Hero 12), but it still packs enough punch to make it a contender. If you’re on the fence about whether this older gem is worth your cash, stick around. I’ll walk you through the highs, the lows, and the “why-didn’t-I-think-of-that” features. Think of this as a chat over coffee—with a side of honest opinions and a few pro tips to help you get the most out of your gear.

First Impressions: Unboxing and What’s in the Kit

What You Get Out of the Box

When I first opened the GoPro Hero 4 Silver kit, I was surprised by how compact everything felt. No flashy packaging—just a sleek, no-nonsense box. Inside, you’ll find:

• The Hero 4 Silver camera (obviously)
• Waterproof housing (rated to 40 meters/130 feet)
• Rechargeable battery
• Curved and flat adhesive mounts
• Quick-release buckle
• USB charging cable
• User guide and warranty info

No frills, but everything you need to get started. The housing is a standout—it’s rugged, with a tight seal that gives you peace of mind when you’re underwater. I’ve taken mine snorkeling in the Caribbean, and not a single drop got in. That’s a big win.

Build Quality and First Use

The camera itself feels solid—like it can take a beating. The buttons are responsive, and the lens cover is scratch-resistant (though I still recommend a protective filter if you’re rough on gear). Setup was a breeze. Within minutes, I had it mounted on my helmet and was recording my first test video.

Pro tip: Before your first adventure, charge the battery fully and format the SD card. The Hero 4 Silver supports up to 128GB cards, but I’d stick with 64GB for reliability. I learned that the hard way when a 128GB card caused glitches mid-hike.

Performance: 4K, Low Light, and the Real-World Test

4K Video: Is It Worth the Hype?

The Hero 4 Silver shoots 4K at 30fps—a solid spec for its time. But let’s be real: 4K isn’t always practical. File sizes balloon quickly, and unless you’re editing on a high-end rig, the difference might not be noticeable on smaller screens. That said, when you do need it (think: drone shots or cropping into a scene), it’s a lifesaver.

I tested it during a sunset hike. The 4K footage captured the golden hues perfectly, with minimal noise. But here’s the catch: in fast motion (like biking downhill), the 30fps limit shows slight motion blur. For smoother action, I switched to 1080p at 60fps—a better balance of quality and performance.

Low-Light and Night Performance

Low-light performance is… okay. The Hero 4 Silver struggles in dim settings. Indoor shots with artificial light are grainy, and night footage (even with the “Night” mode) looks washed out. I tried filming a campfire, and while the flames looked vibrant, the surrounding shadows were muddy.

Workaround: Use external lighting if possible. A small LED panel or even a phone flashlight can make a big difference. For night adventures, I now pair the GoPro with a headlamp—it’s not elegant, but it works.

Battery Life: The Elephant in the Room

Ah, battery life. The stock battery lasts about 60–75 minutes in 4K mode—less if you’re using Wi-Fi or the screen. On a full-day hike, I needed two batteries. The kit doesn’t include extras, so factor that into your budget. I now carry a portable charger, which helps, but it’s a hassle.

Pro tip: Turn off Wi-Fi and the rear screen when not needed. Every little bit helps.

Waterproofing and Durability: Tested in the Wild

40 Meters Under: Snorkeling and Surfing

The waterproof housing is where this camera shines. I’ve dunked it in pools, surfed in 10-foot waves, and even used it as a makeshift underwater housing for a friend’s DSLR (don’t try this at home). The seal held every time.

One time, I accidentally left the housing slightly loose after changing the battery. Cue panic mode—but even with that tiny gap, the camera survived a 20-minute snorkel. That’s a testament to GoPro’s engineering.

Durability: Drops, Dust, and the “Oops” Factor

I’ve dropped this camera more times than I’d like to admit—off a kayak, down a rocky trail, even onto concrete. The housing took the hits, and the camera inside? Unscathed. The lens cover scratches if you’re not careful, but it’s replaceable.

Real talk: The housing’s buttons are a bit stiff. It’s hard to press the shutter underwater, especially with thick gloves. I now use the GoPro app to trigger shots remotely—game-changer.

Features and Usability: Wi-Fi, App, and the Learning Curve

Wi-Fi and the GoPro App: Love-Hate Relationship

The Hero 4 Silver has built-in Wi-Fi, which lets you control it via the GoPro app (iOS/Android). On paper, it’s great—you can preview shots, adjust settings, and start/stop recording from your phone. In practice? It’s hit or miss.

The app disconnects randomly, especially in cold weather. Once, during a ski trip, it froze mid-run, and I lost a perfect powder shot. Frustrating, right? But when it works, it’s magical. I use it for selfie shots and tricky angles (like mounting the camera on a surfboard).

Tip: Reboot the camera and app if you lose connection. It’s annoying, but it usually fixes the issue.

User Interface: Simple, But Not Perfect

The menu system is straightforward, but the tiny LCD screen makes navigation fiddly. I often ended up in the wrong settings mode. The “Quick Capture” feature (hold the shutter to turn on and record) is a lifesaver, though. No fumbling with menus when you’re mid-adventure.

The Hero 4 Silver also has voice control (“GoPro, take a photo”), which works surprisingly well—even in noisy environments. I used it while windsurfing, and it nailed the shot.

Accessories and Upgrades: Making the Most of Your Kit

Must-Have Add-Ons

The stock kit is solid, but a few upgrades can take your filming to the next level:

• Extra batteries: You’ll need them. The Wasabi Power pack is a cheaper alternative to GoPro’s brand.
• Anti-fog inserts: Essential for cold-weather adventures. I use them on ski trips.
• External mic adapter: The built-in mic is okay, but for vlogging, an external mic (like the Rode VideoMic) makes a huge difference.
• Floating hand grip: If you’re filming on water, this keeps your camera from sinking if it slips.

Mounting Magic: Creative Uses

The Hero 4 Silver’s modular design is its secret weapon. I’ve mounted it:

• On a chest strap for hiking (stable, first-person POV)
• Inside a car windshield (dashcam-style)
• On a dog harness (hilarious, but messy—my pup hated the wind noise)

Pro tip: Use the “SuperView” mode for wide-angle shots. It’s great for immersive landscapes, but it distorts edges—keep that in mind for interviews or tight spaces.

Comparing the Hero 4 Silver: Is It Still Relevant?

Let’s face it—the Hero 4 Silver is old by tech standards. But is it still worth buying in 2024? Here’s how it stacks up:

Feature	GoPro Hero 4 Silver	GoPro Hero 12 Black	DJI Osmo Action 4
Max Video	4K @ 30fps	5.3K @ 60fps	4K @ 120fps
Waterproof (without housing)	No	10m (33ft)	18m (59ft)
Screen	Rear only	Front + rear	Front + rear
Battery Life (4K)	60–75 mins	120 mins	160 mins
Price (used/new)	$150–$250	$300–$400	$250–$350

The Hero 4 Silver isn’t cutting-edge, but it’s reliable and affordable. If you’re on a budget or need a backup camera, it’s a steal. For professionals or vloggers, newer models offer better low-light performance, longer battery life, and front screens.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy the Hero 4 Silver?

After two years of use, here’s my verdict: the GoPro Hero 4 Waterproof 4K Action Camera Kit Silver is a rugged, capable tool—but not without flaws. It’s perfect for:

• Adventure enthusiasts who need a durable, waterproof camera for hiking, surfing, or biking.
• Budget-conscious buyers who want GoPro quality without the latest price tag.
• Secondary camera users who need a backup for risky shots (e.g., underwater or in extreme conditions).

But it’s not ideal for:

• Content creators who need front-facing screens or advanced audio.
• Low-light shooters (nighttime, indoor events).
• Those who prioritize battery life or ultra-smooth 4K/60fps.

Would I buy it again? Yes—but only if I needed a tough, no-nonsense camera for the wild. For everyday vlogging or studio work, I’d splurge on a newer model. The Hero 4 Silver isn’t flashy, but it’s dependable. And sometimes, that’s exactly what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the GoPro Hero 4 Waterproof 4K Action Camera Kit Silver truly waterproof?

Yes, the GoPro Hero 4 Silver is waterproof up to 131 feet (40 meters) with its included housing, making it ideal for snorkeling, surfing, and other water-based activities. The housing ensures full protection while maintaining access to all buttons and controls.

What accessories come with the GoPro Hero 4 Waterproof 4K Action Camera Kit Silver?

This kit includes the Hero 4 Silver camera, waterproof housing, rechargeable battery, curved and flat adhesive mounts, a quick-release buckle, and a 3-way pivot arm for versatile mounting options. It’s a complete package for capturing adventures right out of the box.

Can the GoPro Hero 4 Silver record 4K video continuously?

Yes, the GoPro Hero 4 Silver can record 4K video at 30fps, but battery life and overheating may limit continuous recording to 30–45 minutes. For longer sessions, carry spare batteries or use an external power source.

Does the GoPro Hero 4 Silver have Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for remote control?

Yes, the GoPro Hero 4 Silver features built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing you to control the camera remotely via the GoPro app on your smartphone or tablet. This is great for framing shots or adjusting settings on the go.

How does the GoPro Hero 4 Silver compare to newer models in low-light conditions?

The Hero 4 Silver performs well in moderate lighting but struggles in low-light compared to newer GoPro models with improved sensors and image stabilization. For night shots, use a tripod or external lighting for better results.

Is the GoPro Hero 4 Waterproof 4K Action Camera Kit Silver compatible with modern mounts and accessories?

Absolutely. The Hero 4 Silver uses the standard GoPro mounting system, so it’s compatible with most current and older mounts, grips, and accessories, ensuring seamless integration with your existing gear.