GoPro Hero5 Session Action Camera Kit Bundle Review Best Deals

GoPro Hero5 Session Action Camera Kit Bundle Review Best Deals
GoPro Hero5 Session Action Camera Kit Bundle Review Best Deals

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The GoPro Hero5 Session Action Camera Kit Bundle delivers exceptional value with its compact, rugged 4K camera and essential accessories for adventurers and content creators. Waterproof, voice-controlled, and stabilized, it captures stunning footage in any environment, while the included mounts, batteries, and carrying case maximize versatility. This bundle is a top pick for those seeking pro-grade performance without the premium price tag.

Key Takeaways

  • Compact design: Ultra-portable cube shape fits tight spaces effortlessly.
  • 4K video: Captures stunning high-resolution footage for professional quality.
  • Waterproof: Dive up to 33ft without needing an extra case.
  • Voice control: Hands-free operation with simple voice commands enabled.
  • Bundle value: Kit includes must-have accessories at a discounted price.
  • Stabilization: Advanced stabilization reduces shake for smooth action shots.

Why the GoPro Hero5 Session Kit Bundle Might Be Your Next Adventure Sidekick

Let’s face it—when you’re chasing the perfect shot, whether it’s a mountain bike trail, a deep-sea dive, or just your kid’s first soccer goal, you need a camera that keeps up. Enter the GoPro Hero5 Session Action Camera Kit Bundle. It’s not just another gadget; it’s a pocket-sized powerhouse designed for those who want to capture life’s wildest moments without the fuss of bulky equipment. I’ve been testing this little cube for months, and honestly, it’s earned a permanent spot in my backpack.

Now, before you roll your eyes and think, “Not another GoPro review,” hear me out. The Hero5 Session isn’t just another camera. It’s the compact, no-nonsense sibling of the larger GoPro lineup—perfect for travelers, vloggers, athletes, and everyday adventurers who want simplicity without sacrificing quality. And when bundled with the right accessories? It becomes a complete filming system. So, let’s dive into what makes this kit a standout—and whether it’s worth your hard-earned cash.

What’s in the GoPro Hero5 Session Action Camera Kit Bundle?

Unboxing the Essentials

When you first open the box, you’re greeted with a sleek, cube-shaped camera and a neat stack of accessories. The GoPro Hero5 Session Action Camera Kit Bundle typically includes:

GoPro Hero5 Session Action Camera Kit Bundle Review Best Deals

Visual guide about gopro hero5 session action camera kit bundle

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  • The GoPro Hero5 Session camera
  • Standard Frame (for mounting)
  • Curved and Flat Adhesive Mounts
  • Quick-Release Buckle
  • Micro-USB Cable
  • Carrying Case
  • Spare Battery (in some versions)
  • 32GB or 64GB MicroSD Card (varies by bundle)

Some retailers also throw in a mini tripod, floating hand grip, or even a suction cup mount—so always check the listing. I got the 64GB version with an extra battery, and let me tell you, that spare battery saved my butt during a 3-day hiking trip in the Rockies. No power outlets, no stress.

Why the Bundle Beats Buying Separately

Buying the Hero5 Session solo is great, but the kit bundle is where the value shines. Instead of spending $20–$30 extra for a mount, $15 on a case, and another $25 on a memory card, the bundle often includes all that for less than the sum of its parts. Plus, you don’t have to hunt for compatible accessories—everything fits like a glove.

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For example, the adhesive mounts are industrial-strength. I stuck one to my kayak during a whitewater trip, and even after hitting rocks and rapids, it didn’t budge. That’s peace of mind you can’t put a price on.

Design and Build: Tiny, Tough, and Thoughtfully Designed

Compact Size, Big Personality

The Hero5 Session is about the size of a matchbox—38mm x 38mm x 36mm—and weighs just 74 grams. That’s lighter than most smartphones. It’s so small, I’ve accidentally left it in jacket pockets and didn’t notice until laundry day (true story). But that’s the beauty: it’s designed to disappear until you need it.

The camera has a single button on top for power and recording. Press once to turn on and start recording. Press again to stop. Hold it for 3 seconds to switch between modes. It’s so intuitive, my 8-year-old cousin figured it out in under a minute.

Built Like a Tank (But a Tiny One)

Despite its size, the Hero5 Session is rugged. It’s waterproof down to 10 meters (33 feet) without a housing—a huge plus for snorkeling or rainy hikes. I’ve dunked it in lakes, splashed it during beach runs, and even left it in a snowbank overnight. It survived. No leaks, no cracks.

The rubberized body feels grippy and shock-absorbent. I dropped it from waist height onto concrete during a skateboarding session, and the only “damage” was a tiny scuff. The lens is recessed, which helps protect it from scratches.

Mounting Made Easy (and Versatile)

The kit’s mounts are a game-changer. The curved adhesive mount works on helmets, surfboards, or car hoods. The flat one is perfect for walls, bikes, or drones. The quick-release buckle lets you swap the camera between mounts in seconds—no tools needed.

Pro tip: Always clean the mounting surface with alcohol wipes first. I learned this the hard way when my first mount fell off mid-ride. A quick wipe, re-stick, and it held firm.

Performance and Features: What It Does (and What It Doesn’t)

Video Quality: Crisp, Clear, and Colorful

The Hero5 Session shoots up to 4K at 30fps and 1080p at 90fps for slow-motion. In daylight, the footage is vibrant, with rich colors and minimal noise. I filmed a sunrise hike, and the golden hues looked straight out of a travel magazine.

But here’s the catch: in low light (like dusk or indoor settings), the image gets grainy. It’s not bad—just not as sharp as newer models like the Hero9 or Hero10. If you’re mostly shooting outdoors or in bright environments, you’ll love it. For nightlife vlogging? Not so much.

Audio: Good, But Not Studio-Grade

The built-in mic is decent for casual use. It picks up voices clearly when you’re close, but wind noise can be an issue. I used it on a windy cliff, and the audio sounded like a helicopter was overhead. A windscreen (sold separately) helps, but it’s not included in the kit.

Workaround: For better audio, pair it with a Bluetooth mic or record voiceovers later. The camera’s audio is fine for ambient sounds or quick clips, but don’t rely on it for interviews or podcasts.

Stabilization: Smooth, But Not Gimbal-Level

The Hero5 Session has Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS), which works well for walking or light jogging. I filmed a trail run, and the footage was impressively smooth. But for high-speed action (like downhill biking or skiing), you’ll still see some shakiness. It’s not a gimbal, after all.

Tip: Use a chest mount or gimbal for bumpy rides. The kit’s mounts help, but they can’t eliminate all vibration.

Battery Life: Real-World Expectations

GoPro claims 2 hours of 1080p recording. In practice, I got about 1 hour 45 minutes with Wi-Fi off and 4K recording. With Wi-Fi on (for remote control), it drops to 1 hour. The battery isn’t removable, so carrying a spare (like the one in my bundle) is a must for long days.

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Pro tip: Turn off Wi-Fi and voice control when not needed. These features drain the battery fast. Also, cold weather kills battery life—keep the camera warm (e.g., in an inner pocket) during winter shoots.

User Experience: From Setup to Sharing

Getting Started: Plug, Play, and Go

Setting up the Hero5 Session is a breeze. Insert the MicroSD card, charge the battery, and press the button. No complicated menus. The first time you turn it on, it prompts you to download the GoPro app (iOS/Android), which lets you control the camera remotely and transfer footage.

The app is user-friendly but has a learning curve. I spent 10 minutes figuring out how to switch to 4K mode. Once you know the steps, it’s quick. The app also lets you preview shots—handy when the camera’s mounted out of reach.

Editing and Sharing: From Camera to Cloud

Footage transfers to your phone via Wi-Fi (slower) or USB (faster). The GoPro app auto-creates highlight reels—a feature I love. It analyzes your clips and picks the best moments, adding music and transitions. I used this for a weekend getaway video, and it looked pro in minutes.

For more control, edit on a computer with GoPro Studio or free tools like DaVinci Resolve. The Hero5 Session’s files are MP4, so they work with most software.

Voice Control: Cool, But Limited

The camera responds to voice commands: “GoPro, start recording,” “GoPro, take a photo,” etc. It works… sometimes. In quiet environments, it’s reliable. In noisy places (like concerts or busy streets), it struggles. Also, it only recognizes English, which might be a bummer for non-English speakers.

Tip: Use voice control for hands-free shots (e.g., while skiing), but keep the button as a backup.

Comparing the Hero5 Session Kit Bundle: How It Stacks Up

Vs. Hero5 Black: Size vs. Features

The Hero5 Black is larger, with a touchscreen, removable battery, and better low-light performance. But the Hero5 Session wins on portability. If you prioritize size and simplicity, the Session is ideal. Need advanced controls? Go for the Black.

Vs. Newer Models: Budget-Friendly or Outdated?

Newer GoPros (Hero9, Hero10) offer 5K video, HyperSmooth stabilization, and front-facing screens. But they’re also pricier. The Hero5 Session is a budget-friendly option for those who don’t need cutting-edge specs. For casual users, it’s still a solid choice.

Vs. DJI Osmo Action: The Compact Competition

DJI’s Osmo Action has a front screen, better stabilization, and a removable battery. But the Hero5 Session is smaller, cheaper, and has a more mature ecosystem of mounts and accessories. If you’re already in the GoPro universe, stick with it.

Here’s a quick comparison of key specs:

Feature GoPro Hero5 Session GoPro Hero5 Black DJI Osmo Action
Size 38mm x 38mm x 36mm 62mm x 44.6mm x 33mm 65mm x 42mm x 35mm
Weight 74g 118g 124g
Video 4K30, 1080p90 4K30, 1080p120 4K60, 1080p240
Waterproof 10m (no housing) 10m (no housing) 11m (no housing)
Battery Non-removable Removable Removable
Price (Bundle) $180–$250 $250–$350 $200–$300

Is the GoPro Hero5 Session Action Camera Kit Bundle Worth It?

Who It’s Perfect For

The GoPro Hero5 Session Action Camera Kit Bundle is ideal if you:

  • Want a compact, easy-to-use camera for travel, sports, or everyday adventures.
  • Don’t need 5K video or advanced stabilization.
  • Value a complete kit with mounts and memory card included.
  • Already own GoPro accessories or plan to expand your gear.
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I’d recommend it to hikers, skiers, parents, and content creators on a budget. It’s also great as a secondary camera for pros who need a lightweight backup.

Where It Falls Short

It’s not for you if:

  • You shoot in low-light frequently (e.g., night events, indoor vlogs).
  • You need removable batteries for all-day shoots.
  • You want a front screen for vlogging or selfies.

The Hero5 Session is a 2016 camera, after all. Tech has moved on, but it still holds up for most use cases.

Best Deals and Where to Buy

Prices vary, but you can find the kit bundle for $180–$250 on Amazon, B&H, or Best Buy. Look for bundles with a 64GB card and spare battery—they’re the best value. Refurbished models (sold by GoPro directly) can save you 20–30%.

Pro tip: Check for holiday sales (Black Friday, Prime Day) or subscribe to retailer newsletters for discount alerts.

Final Thoughts: A Tiny Camera with a Big Heart

The GoPro Hero5 Session Action Camera Kit Bundle isn’t flashy. It doesn’t have the latest tech or the fanciest features. But it’s reliable, tough, and incredibly easy to use. It’s the camera that’s always ready—no fiddling with settings, no bulky gear, just point, press, and capture.

After months of use, my favorite moments with it weren’t the epic landscapes or extreme sports. They were the small, everyday ones: my dog chasing a ball, my niece’s first bike ride, a rainy afternoon in the park. The Hero5 Session helped me remember the little things, and that’s what matters.

So, if you’re looking for a no-nonsense action camera that won’t break the bank or weigh you down, the Hero5 Session kit bundle is a smart pick. It’s not perfect, but it’s honest, dependable, and—dare I say—fun to use. And sometimes, that’s all you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s included in the GoPro Hero5 Session Action Camera Kit Bundle?

The GoPro Hero5 Session Action Camera Kit Bundle typically includes the Hero5 Session camera, a frame mount, curved and flat adhesive mounts, a mounting buckle, a USB-C cable, and sometimes additional accessories like a spare battery or carrying case, depending on the retailer. Always check the product listing for the exact contents.

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 ideal for snorkeling, swimming, or rainy adventures. However, for deeper dives, a dedicated dive housing is recommended.

Can the GoPro Hero5 Session record 4K video?

Absolutely. The Hero5 Session supports 4K video recording at 30fps, along with 1080p at 60fps for smooth, high-quality footage. It’s a great choice for capturing crisp action shots in a compact form.

Does the GoPro Hero5 Session Action Camera Kit Bundle include a remote or app support?

The bundle doesn’t usually include a physical remote, but the Hero5 Session is compatible with the GoPro app for wireless control, live preview, and settings adjustments via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The app enhances usability for remote shooting.

How long does the battery last on the GoPro Hero5 Session?

The built-in battery offers approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of recording time, depending on resolution and usage. For extended shoots, consider purchasing spare batteries or using a power bank with a USB connection.

Is the GoPro Hero5 Session still worth buying in 2024?

Despite newer models, the Hero5 Session remains a solid budget-friendly option for casual adventurers or secondary cameras, thanks to its 4K video, waterproof design, and compact size. The GoPro Hero5 Session Action Camera Kit Bundle often offers excellent value for beginners.

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