Top GoPro Hero4 Session Action Camera Accessories You Need

Maximize your GoPro Hero4 Session’s potential with must-have accessories like the Frame Mount for secure, low-profile shooting and the Floaty Backdoor for worry-free water adventures. Essential add-ons such as spare batteries, adhesive mounts, and the 3-Way Pivot Arm ensure you capture every angle, anytime, without missing a beat.

Key Takeaways

• Maximize versatility: Use mounts for bikes, helmets, and chests to capture diverse angles effortlessly.
• Extend battery life: Carry spare batteries or a portable charger for longer shooting sessions.
• Enhance audio quality: Add an external mic for clearer sound in noisy environments.
• Protect your camera: Invest in a durable housing for extreme conditions and underwater use.
• Stabilize footage: Use a gimbal or stabilizer to eliminate shaky videos during action scenes.
• Expand storage: High-capacity, high-speed microSD cards ensure you never miss a shot.

Why the GoPro Hero4 Session Deserves the Right Accessories

If you’ve ever tried capturing your mountain biking run, a surfing wipeout, or your kid’s first bike ride with a shaky phone or bulky camera, you know how frustrating it can be. Enter the GoPro Hero4 Session—a tiny, cube-shaped powerhouse that packs a punch in durability, image quality, and ease of use. Released in 2015, this little camera might feel a bit outdated now, but for adventurers on a budget or those who value simplicity, it’s still a solid choice. The Session’s compact design and waterproof housing make it ideal for hands-free filming, but to truly unlock its potential, you need the right GoPro Hero4 Session action camera accessories.

Think of your GoPro Hero4 Session as a blank canvas. Sure, it can record great footage on its own, but without the right tools, you’re missing out on versatility, stability, and creative freedom. Whether you’re a weekend warrior, a travel vlogger, or a parent capturing life’s wild moments, the right accessories can turn your GoPro into a storytelling machine. From mounts that let you film from unique angles to batteries that keep you rolling longer, the ecosystem around this camera is what makes it shine. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the top GoPro Hero4 Session action camera accessories that every user should consider—based on real-world use, durability, and value.

1. Mounts: Your Ticket to Creative Angles

Mounts are the unsung heroes of any action camera setup. They’re what let you go beyond “handheld” and start thinking like a director. The GoPro Hero4 Session doesn’t have a built-in mount like newer models, so you’ll need to use the standard GoPro quick-release frame (sold separately or included in some kits) to attach it to any mount. Once you’ve got that, the world is your oyster.

Helmet and Head Mounts: Capture the Ride

For bikers, skiers, climbers, or anyone on the move, a helmet mount is a game-changer. I remember strapping mine to my mountain bike helmet for a trail run—what a difference! Suddenly, my footage wasn’t just me filming *at* the action; it was *me in* the action. The GoPro Helmet Front + Side Mount is a favorite because it lets you switch between front-facing (great for vlogging) and side-mounted (perfect for capturing terrain). It uses strong 3M adhesive and a quick-release buckle, so it’s secure but easy to swap out.

Pro tip: Clean the helmet surface thoroughly with alcohol wipes before applying the mount. I once lost a mount mid-ride because I skipped this step—lesson learned. Also, avoid placing it near vents or edges where wind pressure can loosen it.

Handlebar and Roll Bar Mounts: For Two and Four Wheels

If you’re into cycling, motorcycling, or even ATVs, a handlebar/roll bar mount is essential. The GoPro Handlebar/Seatpost/Pole Mount is adjustable and clamps securely to bars from 0.75 to 1.4 inches in diameter. I’ve used it on my mountain bike, a rental scooter in Bali, and even a golf cart for a fun time-lapse. The rubberized grip prevents slippage, even on bumpy roads.

One thing to note: The Session is lightweight, but on rough terrain, vibrations can cause a slight “jello effect” in your footage. To minimize this, pair the mount with a vibration dampener (more on that later) or use the camera in a slightly looser clamp to absorb shocks.

Suction Cup Mounts: For Cars, Boats, and Windows

Want to capture a road trip from your windshield or film a speedboat ride? The GoPro Suction Cup Mount is your go-to. It uses a strong vacuum seal and a quick-release lever for easy attachment. I’ve used it on car hoods, boat decks, and even glass windows at aquariums (for that “underwater” look without getting wet).

Keep in mind: Suction cups work best on smooth, non-porous surfaces. Avoid textured paint or curved glass. Also, check the mount every 30 minutes during long drives—temperature changes and road vibrations can weaken the seal. I once lost a mount on a highway (thankfully, it didn’t damage the camera), so now I always do a quick safety check.

2. Batteries and Power: Keep Rolling Longer

The GoPro Hero4 Session has a built-in battery that lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours of continuous recording at 1080p. That sounds decent, but if you’re on a full-day hike, a ski trip, or filming a long event, it’s not enough. Running out of juice mid-adventure is the worst—I’ve been there, and it’s a heartbreaker.

Spare Batteries: The Lifesaver

The GoPro Hero4 Session Rechargeable Battery is your best friend. It’s the same battery that came with your camera, so compatibility is guaranteed. I recommend getting at least two spares. Keep one charged and one in your bag as a backup. Swapping is easy: Just pop the back cover, remove the old battery, and insert the new one.

Tip: Use a dual battery charger (like the GoPro Dual Battery Charger) to charge two batteries at once. I keep mine plugged in at home so I’m always ready. Also, store batteries at around 50% charge if you won’t use them for weeks—this extends their lifespan.

Portable Power Banks: For On-the-Go Charging

If you’re filming all day, a portable power bank can be a lifesaver. The Session charges via micro-USB, so any standard power bank will work. I use a 10,000mAh Anker power bank that charges my Session twice over. It fits in my backpack and doubles as a phone charger.

Pro tip: Use a right-angle micro-USB cable to reduce strain on the port. The Session’s charging port is on the side, and a straight cable can get in the way or get bent. A 90-degree cable keeps things neat and protected.

Car Charger: For Road Trips

For long drives, a car charger adapter lets you charge your Session while on the move. I use a 12V USB adapter that plugs into my car’s cigarette lighter. It’s great for recharging during lunch stops or between filming sessions. Just make sure your car’s USB port provides enough power—some older cars only output 0.5A, which charges slowly. A 2.4A adapter works much better.

3. Protection and Durability: Guard Your Investment

The GoPro Hero4 Session is already waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters) without a housing, which is a huge plus. But “waterproof” doesn’t mean “indestructible.” Scratches, impacts, and extreme conditions can still damage your camera or affect image quality.

Protective Housing: For Extreme Conditions

While the Session doesn’t need a housing for basic water use, the GoPro Standard Housing is worth it for deep diving, surfing, or high-impact activities. It adds a layer of protection and lets you go down to 131 feet (40 meters). I use it for snorkeling in coral reefs—the extra depth rating gives me peace of mind.

Note: The housing makes the camera slightly bulkier, but it’s still compact. The lens cover is removable, so you can clean it easily if it gets smudged or scratched. Always check the seal before diving—I once found a tiny hair stuck in the gasket, which could’ve ruined my footage.

Lens Protectors: Prevent Scratches

The Session’s lens is exposed, making it vulnerable to scratches. A GoPro Lens Cover (a thin, replaceable film) or a glass lens protector (like those from PolarPro) can save your lens. I use a glass protector because it’s more durable and doesn’t distort the image. Just make sure it’s compatible with the Session’s square lens shape.

Tip: Clean the lens with a microfiber cloth before applying the protector. Dust particles can get trapped and create air bubbles or reduce clarity.

Anti-Fog Inserts: For Cold or Humid Environments

If you’re filming in cold weather or high humidity (like rainforests or snow), condensation can fog up your lens. Anti-fog inserts (like the GoPro Anti-Fog Inserts) absorb moisture and keep your lens clear. I used them during a winter ski trip, and they made a huge difference. Just pop them into the housing or around the lens area, and they last for several uses.

4. Audio and Microphones: Improve Sound Quality

Let’s be honest: The built-in mic on the GoPro Hero4 Session is okay for ambient noise, but it picks up a lot of wind and muffled sounds, especially when moving fast. If you’re vlogging, narrating, or want clear audio, you need better options.

External Microphones: Clearer Voice and Sound

The Session has no mic input, but you can use a GoPro Mic Adapter (sold separately) to connect a 3.5mm external mic. I use a Rode VideoMic Me-L (for iPhone/Android) with the adapter, and the sound quality is night and day. Wind noise is reduced, and my voice comes through clearly.

Note: The adapter is a bit bulky, so it might not fit with some mounts. Test your setup before heading out. Also, keep spare batteries for the mic—external mics drain power fast.

Wind Slips and Deadcats: Reduce Wind Noise

Even with an external mic, wind noise is a problem. A wind slip (foam cover) or a deadcat (furry cover) helps. The GoPro WindSlip is a simple foam cover that fits over the built-in mic. For extreme wind, a deadcat (like the Rode Deadcat VMP+) is better. I use a deadcat when biking or skiing—it cuts down wind noise by about 70%.

Tip: If you’re using the built-in mic, place the camera in a wind-protected spot—like under your helmet or inside a jacket pocket. It won’t be perfect, but it helps.

5. Storage and Media: Never Run Out of Space

The GoPro Hero4 Session records to microSD cards, and it supports up to 128GB. But storage isn’t just about capacity—it’s about speed and reliability.

MicroSD Cards: Speed and Reliability Matter

For 1080p or 720p recording, a Class 10 or UHS-I card is fine. But for high-bitrate modes (like 1080p 60fps), you need a U3-rated card to avoid dropped frames. I use a SanDisk Extreme 64GB U3 card. It’s fast, reliable, and has survived drops, water, and extreme temps.

Pro tip: Format the card in-camera every time you use it. This prevents file corruption and ensures optimal performance. Also, avoid cheap no-name cards—I once lost an entire day’s footage because a card failed mid-recording.

Card Readers and Backup: Transfer and Save

Once you’ve filled a card, you need to transfer files fast. A microSD card reader (like the Anker USB-C reader) lets you plug the card directly into your phone, tablet, or laptop. I use it to quickly offload footage and check clips on my phone.

For long trips, I also carry a portable SSD (like the Samsung T7) to back up files. It’s faster than a hard drive and shock-resistant. I’ve saved my footage from a few near-disasters this way.

6. Bonus Accessories for Creative Filming

Beyond the essentials, a few extra accessories can take your footage from “cool” to “cinematic.”

Tripods and Flexible Mounts: For Static Shots

Sometimes you want a stable, hands-free shot. The GoPro Tripod Mount lets you attach your Session to any standard tripod. I use it for time-lapses, cooking videos, and product shots. The JOBY GorillaPod is also great—it wraps around trees, railings, or even your backpack.

Filters: For Better Colors and Contrast

Underwater or in bright sun, colors can look washed out. A GoPro Dive Filter (red or magenta) restores natural colors when diving below 15 feet. I use it for snorkeling and get much more vibrant blues and greens.

Vibration Dampeners: Smoother Footage

For bumpy rides, a vibration dampener (like the GoPro Vibration Dampening Frame) reduces shake. It’s a small rubberized frame that absorbs shocks. I use it on my handlebar mount for smoother bike footage.

Here’s a quick comparison of key accessories:

Accessory	Best For	Key Benefit	Price Range
Helmet Mount	Sports, vlogging	Hands-free POV	$15–$25
Spare Battery	All-day filming	Extended recording	$20–$30
Standard Housing	Deep diving, extreme use	Extra protection	$30–$40
Mic Adapter + External Mic	Vlogging, narration	Clear audio	$40–$80
U3 microSD Card (64GB)	High-bitrate recording	No dropped frames	$20–$35

Final Thoughts: Build Your Perfect GoPro Kit

The GoPro Hero4 Session might not have the bells and whistles of newer models, but with the right GoPro Hero4 Session action camera accessories, it can still deliver amazing results. Think of it like building a toolkit—each accessory fills a gap and opens new possibilities. Whether you’re chasing waves, climbing peaks, or just capturing everyday adventures, these add-ons help you get the shots you want, the way you want them.

My advice? Start with the basics—a few mounts, a spare battery, and a good microSD card. Then, as you discover what you enjoy filming, add accessories that solve your specific challenges. Maybe you need better audio for vlogging, or a dive filter for underwater shots. The key is to grow your kit organically, not all at once.

And remember: The best accessory is creativity. The GoPro Hero4 Session is just the tool—your perspective, timing, and passion are what make the footage unforgettable. So grab your camera, pick a few of these accessories, and go make something awesome. Your next great shot is out there, waiting to be captured.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best GoPro Hero4 Session action camera accessories for underwater filming?

The best GoPro Hero4 Session accessories for underwater filming include the standard waterproof housing (rated to 10m/33ft) and the SuperSuit housing for depths up to 60m/196ft. Add a red filter or dive lens for vibrant color correction in deeper waters.

Can I use GoPro Hero4 Session accessories with newer GoPro models?

Most GoPro Hero4 Session accessories are not cross-compatible with newer models due to size and mounting differences. However, universal accessories like suction mounts or tripods may work with adapter kits.

Which GoPro Hero4 Session accessories are essential for vlogging?

For vlogging, prioritize the compact frame mount, a 3.5mm mic adapter for external audio, and a foldable grip like the Shorty for stable handheld shots. These GoPro Hero4 Session accessories enhance portability and audio quality.

How do I prevent fogging inside my GoPro Hero4 Session housing?

Use anti-fog inserts designed for GoPro Hero4 Session accessories, or place a small desiccant packet in the housing. Avoid exposing the camera to extreme temperature changes before filming.

What mounts are compatible with GoPro Hero4 Session action camera accessories?

The Session uses a unique square frame mount, but you can attach standard GoPro mounts (e.g., chest harness, helmet mounts) with a Frame Mount adapter. Check for “Hero4 Session-compatible” labels when buying.

Are there budget-friendly GoPro Hero4 Session accessories for beginners?

Yes! Start with affordable essentials like a mini tripod, adhesive mounts, and a carrying case. Many third-party brands offer cost-effective GoPro Hero4 Session accessories that don’t compromise quality.