GoPro Hero4 Black 4K Action Camera Ready for Adventure Kit Review

The GoPro Hero4 Black 4K Action Camera Ready for Adventure Kit delivers professional-grade 4K video and rugged, adventure-ready performance in one complete package. With ultra-sharp 4K30 and 1080p120 recording, advanced image stabilization, and a durable, waterproof housing, it captures every thrilling moment with stunning clarity. Ideal for extreme sports and outdoor explorers, this kit includes essential mounts and accessories to get you shooting straight out of the box.

Key Takeaways

• 4K video quality: Capture stunning ultra-HD footage in any environment.
• Ready-to-adventure kit: Includes mounts and accessories for immediate use.
• ProTune mode: Enables manual control for professional-grade video output.
• High frame rates: Shoot smooth slow-motion at 1080p120 or 720p240.
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: Easily connect and control via smartphone or remote.
• Durable, waterproof design: Submersible up to 40m without a housing.

Why the GoPro Hero4 Black 4K Action Camera Ready for Adventure Kit Is Still Worth Considering

Let’s face it: adventure doesn’t wait. Whether you’re scaling a mountain, surfing the gnarliest wave of the season, or chasing your kid on a bike through the woods, you want to capture those moments in stunning detail. That’s where the GoPro Hero4 Black 4K Action Camera Ready for Adventure Kit steps in. I’ve used this camera for years—on road trips, in snowstorms, even underwater in murky lakes—and it’s still one of the most reliable action cams I’ve owned. Sure, newer models have hit the market, but this one? It’s a classic for a reason.

What makes this kit special isn’t just the camera. It’s the complete package—a thoughtfully assembled bundle that includes everything you need to start filming right out of the box. No running to the store for a mount or a spare battery. No scrambling to find a case. The Ready for Adventure Kit is designed for those who want to hit record and go. But does it still hold up in today’s world of 5K and 8K cameras? Let’s break it down, piece by piece, with real-world insights and practical tips.

Unboxing the Ready for Adventure Kit: What’s Actually in the Box?

When I first opened the box, I was pleasantly surprised. This isn’t just a camera thrown into a fancy package. GoPro clearly thought about what adventurers actually need. The kit includes:

• GoPro Hero4 Black – The star of the show, capable of 4K video at 30fps and 1080p at 120fps.
• Standard Housing – Waterproof down to 131 feet (40 meters), perfect for snorkeling or rainy hikes.
• Rechargeable Battery – Lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on settings.
• Curved and Flat Adhesive Mounts – For helmets, bikes, surfboards, you name it.
• Quick Release Buckle – Lets you swap mounts fast.
• 3-Way Pivot Arm – A flexible arm for creative angles.
• USB Cable – For charging and data transfer.
• Carrying Case – A semi-rigid, zippered case that fits everything neatly.

First Impressions: Build Quality and Design

The Hero4 Black feels solid—not flimsy like some knockoffs. The matte finish resists fingerprints, and the rubberized buttons give a satisfying click. The housing is thick and seals tight with a dual-latch system. I’ve dropped it from a kayak into shallow water (oops), and it came out unscathed. The design is compact, but not pocket-sized. It’s more of a “fits in a jacket pocket” size than “fits in your jeans.”

Is the Kit Truly “Ready for Adventure”?

Yes—but with one caveat. You are ready to film right away, but battery life and storage are your limiting factors. The kit includes one battery and no memory card, which is a bummer. I’d recommend buying a 64GB or 128GB microSD card (UHS-I U3 class) immediately. Also, if you’re filming 4K for long stretches, pack a power bank. I learned this the hard way during a 6-hour mountain bike ride. The camera died at the 2-hour mark, and I missed the best descent of the day.

Performance and Image Quality: 4K That Still Holds Up

Let’s talk about what really matters: the footage. The GoPro Hero4 Black shoots 4K at 30fps, which was groundbreaking when it launched in 2014. Today, it’s not the highest resolution out there, but it’s still excellent for most users. I’ve used it for vlogs, travel videos, and even a short documentary, and the clarity is impressive.

4K vs. 1080p: When to Use Which

Here’s a quick rule of thumb:

• Use 4K when you want cinematic detail—landscapes, slow-motion sequences, or when you plan to crop in post.
• Use 1080p at 120fps for action-heavy scenes like skiing, biking, or skateboarding. The slow-motion effect is smooth and buttery.
• Use 720p at 240fps (yes, it does that!) for extreme slow-mo, like catching a water droplet or a bird taking flight.

Pro tip: 4K files are huge. A 10-minute clip can eat up 3GB. If you’re on a long trip, shoot 1080p most of the time and reserve 4K for key moments.

Low-Light Performance: The Achilles’ Heel?

Let’s be honest—the Hero4 Black isn’t great in low light. The sensor is smaller than newer models, and noise becomes obvious in dim conditions. I tried filming a sunset kayak paddle, and while the colors were beautiful, the shadows were grainy. But here’s a fix: use the Protune mode (more on that below) and shoot in RAW. You can recover a lot in post-production. Also, avoid auto settings at night—manually set ISO to 400 or 800 to reduce noise.

Color and Dynamic Range

The camera’s dynamic range is decent, not spectacular. In high-contrast scenes (like a bright sky and dark forest), the sky often blows out. But with Protune enabled, you can adjust the color profile to “Flat,” which preserves more detail for color grading later. I’ve pulled usable shadows from “flat” footage using free software like DaVinci Resolve. The default “GoPro Color” is vibrant and fun for casual use, though.

Protune and Manual Controls: For the Tech-Savvy Adventurer

If you’re the type who loves tweaking settings, the Hero4 Black’s Protune feature will make you smile. It unlocks manual controls that turn the camera from a point-and-shoot into a creative tool. But it’s not for everyone. Let’s break it down.

What Protune Actually Does

Protune disables auto-exposure, auto-white balance, and auto-color. Instead, you get:

• Manual ISO (100–1600) – Lower ISO = less noise, higher = more light.
• Manual White Balance (3000K–6500K) – Match the color temperature to your environment.
• Color Profile – Choose “GoPro Color” (vibrant) or “Flat” (more dynamic range).
• Sharpness – Reduce it slightly for a more natural look.
• EV Compensation – Brighten or darken the image without changing ISO.

I use Protune for all my serious shoots. For example, when filming a desert hike, I set white balance to 5500K (neutral daylight), ISO to 100, and use “Flat” color. The footage looks dull at first, but in post, it’s easy to boost contrast and saturation without clipping highlights.

When to Avoid Protune

Protune is overkill for casual use. If you’re filming your kid’s soccer game or a quick mountain bike ride, stick to auto settings. Protune also increases file size and drains the battery faster. Plus, if you’re not editing in post, “Flat” footage can look washed out on social media.

Pro Tip: Create Custom Presets

The Hero4 Black lets you save up to three custom presets. I have:

• Preset 1: 4K 30fps, Protune, Flat, ISO 100 – for landscapes.
• Preset 2: 1080p 120fps, Protune, GoPro Color, ISO 400 – for action.
• Preset 3: 720p 240fps, Auto – for fun slow-mo moments.

Switching presets takes two button presses. It’s a game-changer when you’re moving between different activities.

Durability and Real-World Testing: How It Handles Abuse

An action camera is useless if it can’t survive real adventure. I’ve put the Hero4 Black through the wringer—here’s how it held up.

Waterproofing: More Than Just a Number

The standard housing is rated for 131 feet (40m), but I’ve used it deeper. During a scuba dive, I went to 60 feet (18m), and the seals held. The housing is also great for rain, snow, and splashes. Just remember: the housing is required for water use. The camera itself isn’t waterproof.

One time, I forgot to close the battery door fully. The camera got wet inside, but I dried it with silica gel for 48 hours, and it still works. Not a recommendation—just a testament to its ruggedness.

Drop Tests and Scratches

I’ve dropped the camera from a kayak (2 feet), a bike (4 feet), and a rock (6 feet). The housing has a few scratches, but the lens is pristine. The adhesive mounts, though? They’re the weak link. I lost a mount on a windy cliff, and another peeled off during a mountain bike ride. Pro tip: use the included 3-Way Pivot Arm for extra security on rough terrain.

Temperature Extremes

The Hero4 Black works in cold weather, but the battery life drops. At -10°C (14°F), I got about 1 hour of 1080p recording. In the desert, the camera overheated after 20 minutes of 4K filming. The screen flashed a warning, and it shut down. Solution? Take breaks, use a sunshade (or your hand), and avoid direct sunlight.

The Accessories: What’s Included vs. What You’ll Need to Buy

The Ready for Adventure Kit covers the basics, but to get the most out of your Hero4 Black, you’ll want to invest in a few extras. Here’s my list of must-haves and nice-to-haves.

Included Accessories: The Good and the “Meh”

• Good: The 3-Way Pivot Arm is genius. It lets you angle the camera without buying a new mount. The carrying case is also surprisingly useful—I use it as a travel case for my drone too.
• Meh: The adhesive mounts work, but they’re not the strongest. I’d swap them for GoPro’s newer Jaws Flex Clamp or Handlebar Mount for bikes.

Must-Have Add-Ons

Here’s what I recommend buying within the first month:

• Spare Batteries (2–3) – The included one won’t cut it for long shoots.
• 64GB+ microSD Card – U3 class for 4K. SanDisk Extreme or Samsung EVO are reliable.
• External Battery Pack – For charging on the go.
• Floating Hand Grip – Prevents loss if you drop it in water.
• Lens Cover – The included one is flimsy. Get a glass or silicone cover.

Nice-to-Have (For Enthusiasts)

• GoPro Smart Remote – Control the camera from a distance (e.g., when mounted on a helmet).
• Dual Battery Charger – Charge two batteries at once.
• External Microphone – The built-in mic is okay, but wind noise ruins outdoor audio. The Media Mod (for newer GoPros) isn’t compatible, but you can use a 3.5mm mic with an adapter.

Cost Comparison: Kit vs. Buying Separately

Is the kit worth it? Let’s compare:

Item	Kit Price (Est.)	Separate Price (Est.)
Hero4 Black	$399 (included)	$399
Standard Housing	$0 (included)	$49
Battery	$0 (included)	$20
Mounts & Accessories	$0 (included)	$60
Carrying Case	$0 (included)	$25
Total	$399	$553

You save about $150 by buying the kit. That’s a no-brainer if you’re new to GoPro.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the Hero4 Black Ready for Adventure Kit?

After years of use, here’s my honest take on who this camera is perfect for—and who should look elsewhere.

The Ideal User: Adventure Enthusiasts on a Budget

If you’re a weekend warrior who hikes, bikes, or surfs, the Hero4 Black is still a fantastic choice. The 4K footage looks great on YouTube, Instagram, and even 4K TVs. The kit’s accessories save you time and money. I’ve recommended it to friends who want to start filming their trips, and they’ve all been happy.

It’s also great for:

• Beginners – Easy to use, with room to grow into manual controls.
• Content Creators – The Protune feature is a secret weapon for better editing.
• Travelers – Compact, durable, and versatile.

Who Should Pass?

Consider a newer model if you:

• Need 5K/8K – The Hero4 Black maxes out at 4K 30fps. Newer GoPros do 5K 30fps or 4K 60fps.
• Film in Low Light – The Hero10 or Hero11 has better low-light performance.
• Want Live Streaming – The Hero4 can’t stream to social media. Newer models can.
• Need HyperSmooth Stabilization – The Hero4 has no in-body stabilization. Newer models have electronic stabilization.

Final Verdict: A Timeless Classic

The GoPro Hero4 Black 4K Action Camera Ready for Adventure Kit isn’t the newest or flashiest camera, but it’s still a powerhouse. The image quality is sharp, the build is tough, and the kit is thoughtfully designed. Yes, it has limitations—battery life, low-light noise, no stabilization—but for the price, it’s hard to beat. I’ve used it to capture memories I’ll cherish forever, and I’m not ready to retire it yet. If you’re starting your adventure filmmaking journey, or you just want a reliable, no-fuss camera, this kit is a solid choice. Just remember to buy extra batteries and a memory card. Your future self will thank you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the GoPro Hero4 Black 4K Action Camera Ready for Adventure Kit stand out?

The GoPro Hero4 Black 4K Action Camera Ready for Adventure Kit includes the high-performance Hero4 Black camera, known for its 4K video and 12MP photos, along with essential mounts and accessories for extreme sports. Its rugged design and waterproof housing make it ideal for capturing adventures in any environment.

Can the GoPro Hero4 Black shoot in 4K resolution?

Yes, the GoPro Hero4 Black records stunning 4K video at 30fps, delivering ultra-high-definition footage perfect for action-packed scenes. It also supports lower resolutions like 1080p at higher frame rates for smooth slow-motion playback.

Does this kit include everything needed for mounting the camera?

The Ready for Adventure Kit includes a variety of mounts (e.g., adhesive, handlebar, and head strap) to attach the GoPro Hero4 Black to helmets, bikes, or gear. Additional accessories like a quick-release buckle and 3-way pivot arm offer versatile positioning options.

Is the GoPro Hero4 Black waterproof without a case?

No, the Hero4 Black isn’t waterproof by itself but comes with a 131ft (40m) waterproof housing in this kit. The housing protects the camera during deep-water dives, snowboarding, or heavy rain.

How does the Hero4 Black compare to newer GoPro models?

While newer models offer improved stabilization and ease of use, the Hero4 Black remains a solid choice for 4K recording and durability, especially at a lower price point. It’s a great value for adventurers on a budget.

Does the kit include a battery or charging accessories?

Yes, the Ready for Adventure Kit includes a rechargeable lithium-ion battery and a USB cable for charging. However, a wall charger isn’t included, so you’ll need to use a computer or third-party adapter.