GoPro Hero5 Session 4K Action Camera 32GB Deluxe Accessory Bundle Review

The GoPro Hero5 Session 4K Action Camera 32GB Deluxe Accessory Bundle delivers stunning 4K video and rugged, compact performance in one seamless package. Perfect for adventurers, this all-in-one bundle includes essential mounts, a 32GB microSD card, and a protective housing—maximizing value and versatility right out of the box. Capture every thrill with pro-level clarity and ease.

Key Takeaways

• 4K video quality: Captures stunning, high-resolution footage in all conditions.
• Compact design: Fits easily in pockets, perfect for on-the-go adventures.
• 32GB storage included: Ready to record right out of the box.
• Waterproof housing: Dive up to 33ft without extra casing.
• Deluxe bundle value: Includes mounts, batteries, and accessories for immediate use.
• Voice control: Hands-free operation for seamless shooting in action scenarios.

The GoPro Hero5 Session 4K Action Camera 32GB Deluxe Accessory Bundle Review: Is It Still Worth It?

Remember the first time you tried to capture your mountain biking adventure, only to end up with shaky, blurry footage that didn’t do the experience justice? We’ve all been there. Action cameras have come a long way since those early, frustrating days, and the GoPro Hero5 Session 4K Action Camera 32GB Deluxe Accessory Bundle promises to be your trusty sidekick for all things adrenaline. But with newer models flooding the market, does this compact powerhouse still hold up? As someone who’s tested it in everything from rainy hikes to snorkeling trips, I’m here to give you the real scoop—no fluff, just the honest truth about what this bundle delivers.

What makes the Hero5 Session stand out is its unique cube-shaped design and the fact that it’s a complete package right out of the box. Unlike some action cameras that force you to buy accessories separately, this GoPro Hero5 Session 4K Action Camera 32GB Deluxe Accessory Bundle includes mounts, a 32GB microSD card, and even a carrying case. It’s like getting a ready-to-go adventure kit. But is it worth investing in today, or should you hold out for something newer? Let’s dive into the details and find out.

Design and Build: Compact, Durable, and Ready for Action

Small But Mighty: The Cube Shape Advantage

The Hero5 Session’s cube-shaped body is one of its most distinctive features. At just 1.5 inches on each side, it’s one of the smallest action cameras you’ll find. I’ve mounted it on my bike helmet, stuck it to my surfboard, and even used it as a dashcam—all without it feeling bulky or obtrusive. The compact design makes it perfect for tight spaces, like inside a car or on a drone.

One thing I love is how easy it is to grip. Unlike some cameras with smooth, slippery exteriors, the Hero5 Session has a slightly textured surface that gives you a secure hold, even with wet hands. This came in handy during a kayaking trip when I needed to adjust the camera mid-paddle without fumbling.

Waterproof Without the Housing

Here’s a big win: the Hero5 Session is waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters) without needing an external housing. That’s a game-changer for snorkeling, swimming, or rainy-day adventures. I tested it during a downpour while hiking, and not only did it survive, but the footage was crystal clear. Just remember: while it’s waterproof, it’s not meant for deep diving. If you’re planning to go deeper than 33 feet, you’ll need an extra housing (sold separately).

Pro tip: After using it in saltwater or chlorinated pools, rinse it with fresh water to prevent corrosion. A simple step that can extend its lifespan.

One-Button Simplicity

The Hero5 Session keeps things refreshingly simple. There’s just one button on top—press it once to turn it on and start recording, press and hold to turn it off. No menus, no fiddling. For beginners or anyone who just wants to hit record and go, this is perfect.

That said, if you’re used to having quick access to settings, you’ll need the GoPro app on your phone. It connects via Wi-Fi and lets you adjust resolution, frame rates, and even start/stop recording remotely. It’s handy, but it’s an extra step. If you’re in a hurry, you might find yourself wishing for more physical buttons.

Video and Photo Quality: 4K Performance That Still Holds Up

4K Video: Crisp and Vibrant

The Hero5 Session shoots 4K video at 30 frames per second (fps), which is great for most action scenarios. I’ve used it for biking, hiking, and even capturing my dog sprinting through the park—and the footage always looks sharp and vibrant. The colors pop, especially in sunny conditions, and the dynamic range handles bright skies and shaded trails well.

For smoother motion, you can drop down to 1080p at 60fps or 960p at 100fps for slow-motion effects. I used the 100fps setting to film a waterfall, and the slow-mo effect was stunning—every droplet looked like it was floating in mid-air.

Photo Quality: Good, But Not the Best

Photos are 10MP, which is decent but not exceptional. In good lighting, they’re sharp and detailed. But in low light or fast-moving situations, you might notice some noise or blur. I once tried to capture a sunset while on a boat, and while the colors were beautiful, the image wasn’t as crisp as I’d hoped.

For stills, I recommend using the burst mode (10 photos per second) to increase your chances of getting the perfect shot. It’s not a DSLR, but for quick snapshots of action, it gets the job done.

Stabilization: Built-In, But Not Perfect

The Hero5 Session has built-in electronic stabilization, which helps reduce shakiness. I tested it while running on a rocky trail, and while it smoothed out the worst bumps, there was still some jello effect (a slight wobble in the frame) during fast movements. It’s good for casual use, but if you’re doing extreme sports, you might want to invest in a gimbal or use a stabilizing mount.

One trick I learned: pair it with a chest mount for smoother footage. The lower center of gravity helps reduce shake, especially when walking or running.

Audio and Voice Control: A Mixed Bag

Audio Quality: Decent, But Windy Days Are Tricky

The built-in microphone does a solid job in calm environments. I used it for a vlog-style video in a quiet forest, and my voice came through clearly. But in windy conditions? Not so much. Even a light breeze can turn your audio into a muffled mess. I once tried to record a beach walk, and all you could hear was the wind roaring through the mic.

For better sound, I recommend using an external mic (like the GoPro Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter) or recording audio separately and syncing it later. If you’re doing a voiceover, the camera’s mic is fine—just keep it sheltered from the wind.

Voice Control: Handy, But Needs Patience

One of the coolest features is voice control. You can say “GoPro, start recording” or “GoPro, take a photo” to control the camera hands-free. It works surprisingly well—most of the time. In quiet settings, it’s almost 100% accurate. But in noisy environments (like a crowded trail or a busy street), it can struggle.

I once tried to use it at a music festival, and the camera kept turning on and off because of the background noise. For best results, use it in quieter settings or speak clearly and directly toward the camera.

The Deluxe Accessory Bundle: What’s Included and Why It Matters

What You Get in the Box

The GoPro Hero5 Session 4K Action Camera 32GB Deluxe Accessory Bundle isn’t just the camera—it’s a full kit. Here’s what you’ll find:

• GoPro Hero5 Session 4K Camera
• 32GB microSD card (Class 10, U3 speed rating)
• Curved and flat adhesive mounts
• Quick-release frame
• Mounting buckle and thumb screw
• USB-C charging cable
• Carrying case

Having the 32GB card included is a huge plus. It’s enough for about 1 hour of 4K video or 2 hours of 1080p footage. The mounts are versatile—I’ve used the curved one on my helmet and the flat one on my kayak. The carrying case keeps everything organized, which is a lifesaver when you’re packing for a trip.

Real-World Use: A Complete Adventure Kit

I took this bundle on a weekend camping trip, and it made everything easier. Instead of scrambling to find mounts or worrying about storage, I just grabbed the case and went. The quick-release frame is especially useful—it lets you swap mounts in seconds without unscrewing anything. I used it to switch from a chest mount to a handlebar mount while biking, and it was seamless.

One thing to note: the included mounts are basic, but they work well for most situations. If you need something more specialized (like a suction cup for car use), you can always buy GoPro’s official accessories later.

Battery Life: How Long Does It Last?

The Hero5 Session has a built-in battery that lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours of continuous 4K recording. In real-world use, I got closer to 1 hour and 45 minutes with Wi-Fi turned on and mixed settings. It’s not amazing, but it’s enough for most day trips. For longer adventures, I recommend packing a power bank or carrying spare batteries (though the Session’s battery isn’t user-replaceable).

Pro tip: turn off Wi-Fi and voice control when not in use to extend battery life. Every little bit helps!

Software and App Experience: Seamless, But Not Flawless

GoPro App: Your Remote Control

The GoPro app (available for iOS and Android) is your gateway to controlling the camera remotely. It connects via Wi-Fi and lets you adjust settings, preview the shot, and start/stop recording. The app is intuitive, and I’ve never had it crash on me.

One of my favorite features is the live preview. I used it to frame a shot on my bike’s handlebars without having to guess the angle. The only downside? The connection can be a bit slow at times, especially in areas with weak Wi-Fi signals.

Auto Upload and Cloud Storage

If you have a GoPro subscription, your footage can automatically upload to the cloud when the camera connects to Wi-Fi. It’s a great way to back up your videos, but the free tier only gives you 32GB of storage. For heavy users, the paid plans might be worth it.

I’ve used the auto-upload feature for travel vlogs, and it’s a lifesaver. No more worrying about losing your SD card or running out of space. Just connect to Wi-Fi, and it does the rest.

Editing and Sharing: Quick and Easy

The GoPro app also has basic editing tools—trim, speed up, slow down, and add music. For quick social media clips, it’s perfect. I’ve used it to edit a 30-second highlight reel of my hiking trip in under 5 minutes.

For more advanced editing, I recommend transferring the files to your computer. The 4K footage works well with most editing software, though you might need a powerful computer to handle the files smoothly.

How It Compares to Newer Models: Is It Still a Good Buy?

vs. GoPro Hero12 Black: The Newer, Pricier Option

The Hero12 Black shoots 5.3K video, has better stabilization, and a longer battery life. But it’s also more expensive and bulkier. If you’re a professional content creator, it’s worth the upgrade. But for casual users, the Hero5 Session’s 4K quality and compact size are still impressive.

Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature	GoPro Hero5 Session	GoPro Hero12 Black
Video Resolution	4K at 30fps	5.3K at 60fps
Waterproof Depth	33ft (10m) without housing	33ft (10m) without housing
Battery Life	1.5–2 hours	2+ hours
Price (Bundle)	$$ (mid-range)	$$$$ (high-end)

vs. DJI Osmo Action 3: The Budget-Friendly Alternative

The DJI Osmo Action 3 is a strong competitor. It shoots 4K at 120fps, has a front-facing screen, and is cheaper. But the Hero5 Session’s cube design and included accessories give it an edge for users who want a no-fuss, ready-to-go kit. If you prioritize simplicity and portability, the GoPro is still a solid choice.

Who Should Buy the Hero5 Session Bundle?

This bundle is perfect for:

• Beginners who want a simple, all-in-one action camera
• Travelers who need a compact, durable camera
• Budget-conscious buyers who don’t need the latest features

It’s not ideal for:

• Professionals needing 5.3K or advanced stabilization
• Deep divers (needs extra housing for depths over 33ft)
• Low-light videographers (struggles in dim conditions)

Final Verdict: A Reliable, Compact Adventure Companion

After months of testing, I can confidently say the GoPro Hero5 Session 4K Action Camera 32GB Deluxe Accessory Bundle is still a fantastic choice—especially if you’re new to action cameras or want a no-nonsense, portable option. Its 4K video quality, waterproof design, and included accessories make it a great value for the price.

It’s not perfect—the battery life could be better, low-light performance is hit-or-miss, and the lack of a screen might frustrate some users. But for capturing everyday adventures, travel memories, or weekend fun, it delivers where it counts. And with the deluxe bundle, you’re getting a complete kit that’s ready to go right out of the box.

So, is it worth buying in 2024? If you’re on a budget and want a reliable, compact camera that won’t let you down, absolutely. It’s not the flashiest model on the market, but it’s a workhorse that’s stood the test of time. Just don’t expect it to replace your smartphone or DSLR. For what it’s designed to do—capture action in a tiny, durable package—it’s still one of the best.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the GoPro Hero5 Session 4K Action Camera 32GB Deluxe Accessory Bundle stand out?

This bundle combines the compact, cube-shaped Hero5 Session camera with 4K video recording and a versatile 32GB microSD card, plus essential accessories like mounts and a case. The all-in-one package is ideal for travelers and adventurers seeking high-quality footage without extra purchases.

Is the GoPro Hero5 Session waterproof without a housing?

Yes, the Hero5 Session is waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters) without an external housing, making it perfect for snorkeling or rainy conditions. However, deeper dives require the optional dive housing for protection.

Does the 32GB Deluxe Accessory Bundle include a charger for the Hero5 Session?

The bundle includes a USB charging cable for the built-in battery but does not come with a wall adapter. You can charge it via a computer USB port or any standard USB power source.

Can the GoPro Hero5 Session record in 4K at high frame rates?

The camera supports 4K video at 30fps and 1080p at up to 90fps for smooth slow-motion footage. While not the highest frame rate in its class, it delivers excellent quality for most action scenarios.

What accessories are included in the 32GB Deluxe Accessory Bundle?

The bundle features a 32GB microSD card, adhesive mounts, a curved and flat mount, a quick-release frame, a carrying case, and a lens cleaner—everything needed to start filming immediately.

Is the GoPro Hero5 Session compatible with newer GoPro mounts and accessories?

Yes, the Hero5 Session uses the standard GoPro mounting system, ensuring compatibility with most newer mounts, harnesses, and accessories. This makes it easy to expand your setup over time.