Got a trusty GoPro HERO5 Black and want to make your video footage even more epic? While the HERO5 Black is still a fantastic action camera, technology moves fast. Whether you’re looking for essential accessories to improve your current setup or eyeing a powerful upgrade, this guide will help you find the best gear for recording video with a GoPro HERO5 Black and beyond.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a curated list of top-tier cameras and accessories designed to take your video quality, audio, and overall shooting experience to the next level. From advanced stabilization to robust protective cases and extended battery life, let’s dive into the best tools to capture those unforgettable moments.
The Best Gear for Your GoPro HERO5 Black Video Needs
Here’s our breakdown of the top products that will revolutionize your action camera experience:
1. GoPro HERO13 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60…
If you’re serious about capturing the absolute best video, upgrading to the latest GoPro HERO13 Black is a game-changer. This beast of a camera takes everything you love about GoPro and cranks it up to eleven, offering unparalleled video quality and robust durability. It’s an ideal step up for anyone looking to vastly improve upon their GoPro HERO5 Black footage, especially with its new lens system and powerful battery that ensures you don’t miss a beat.
- Best-in-class 5.3K60 video for incredibly sharp and smooth footage.
- Legendary durability for all your adventures.
- Features new HB-Series Lenses for enhanced optical performance.
- Comes with a more powerful battery for extended recording times.
Pros:
– Cutting-edge video resolution and frame rates.
– Superior stabilization compared to older models.
– Enhanced low-light performance.
– Extremely durable and waterproof.
Cons:
– Premium price point.
– May require new accessories due to size/design changes.
User Impressions: Users consistently praise the HERO13 Black for its stunning image quality and remarkable stabilization, often noting that it makes older models feel sluggish by comparison. The new battery life is a big win for extended shoots.
See it on Amazon here
2. Taisioner Windslayer Cover Housing Frame Case for GoPro…
Wind noise can utterly ruin otherwise perfect video footage, especially when you’re out adventuring with your GoPro HERO5 Black. The Taisioner Windslayer Cover is an absolute must-have accessory to combat this. Made from a special sponge material, it effectively reduces unwanted wind noise, ensuring your audio is clear and crisp, making your videos sound as good as they look. It’s a simple yet highly effective solution for better sound quality.
- Compatible with GoPro Hero 5, Hero 6, Hero 7 Black action cameras (requires protective housing frame).
- Effectively reduces noise when recording video.
- Made of soft, lightweight, portable, and flexible sponge material.
- Precise hole design ensures no impact on video effect or sound quality.
- Adaptable to various scenes and sports, especially gale weather & strenuous exercise.
Pros:
– Significantly improves audio quality in windy conditions.
– Lightweight and easy to install.
– Affordable and provides great value.
Cons:
– Requires a compatible frame case, not usable with waterproof cases.
– Can collect dust/debris over time.
User Impressions: Many users report a dramatic improvement in audio clarity, especially for vlogging or outdoor sports. It’s frequently cited as a simple fix for a common GoPro audio problem.
See it on Amazon here
3. GoPro HERO12 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60…
The GoPro HERO12 Black stands out as another phenomenal upgrade, bringing High Dynamic Range (HDR) to your videos and photos. This means your footage will capture more detail in both bright and shadowy areas, resulting in vibrant, true-to-life colors. With its Emmy Award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, even the shakiest adventures turn into buttery-smooth cinematic shots, making it a fantastic choice for anyone moving up from their GoPro HERO5 Black.
- High Dynamic Range (HDR) Video + Photo for enhanced detail and color.
- Unbelievable Image Quality with 5.3K video (91% more resolution than 4K) and 27MP photos.
- Emmy Award-Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization for incredibly smooth footage.
- Rugged + Waterproof to 33ft (10m) without additional housing.
- Water-repelling lens cover minimizes flares.
Pros:
– Superior image and video quality with HDR.
– Best-in-class HyperSmooth stabilization.
– Excellent low-light performance.
– Extremely durable and ready for action.
Cons:
– Still a significant investment.
– Battery life, while improved, can still be a concern for very long shoots.
User Impressions: Reviewers consistently rave about the HERO12’s image quality and the “gimbal-like” stabilization from HyperSmooth 6.0. The HDR feature is particularly appreciated for challenging lighting conditions.
See it on Amazon here
4. GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition – Waterproof Action…
For creators who crave an expansive field of view and truly immersive footage, the GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition is a dream come true. It comes with the Ultra Wide Lens Mod pre-attached, boosting your FOV up to 177°. This means you capture more of the scene – more sky, more horizon, more action – ideal for POV shots that make viewers feel like they’re right there with you. It’s a specialized upgrade for unique cinematic perspectives beyond what your GoPro HERO5 Black can offer.
- Ultra Wide Lens Mod pre-attached for hyper-immersive footage and epic landscapes.
- Boosts field of view up to 177°, capturing 36% wider and 48% taller scenes.
- Pro-Quality 4K60 Video with five digital lenses (Linear, Wide, Ultra Wide, Ultra SuperView, Ultra HyperView).
- Unbreakable HyperSmooth Stabilization in every resolution.
- Easy Vertical Capture for social media platforms like Instagram Reels and TikTok.
Pros:
– Unmatched ultra-wide field of view.
– Excellent 4K60 video quality.
– Industry-leading HyperSmooth stabilization.
– Perfect for immersive POV and landscape shots.
Cons:
– More specialized, might not be for everyone.
– Fixed ultra-wide lens, though digital lenses offer some flexibility.
User Impressions: Enthusiasts love the “epic” and “immersive” feel of the ultra-wide footage. It’s often recommended for action sports and vlogging where showing the environment is key.
See it on Amazon here
5. GoPro Hero12 Black E-Commerce Package – Waterproof Action…
This e-commerce package of the GoPro HERO12 Black offers exceptional value, bundling the camera with an Enduro battery and essential mounts. It’s designed to give you a powerful start with improved battery life, incredible 5.3K video, and 27MP photos, all encased in a rugged, waterproof design. If you’re upgrading from your GoPro HERO5 Black, you’ll immediately notice the significantly longer runtime and the groundbreaking HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, making it effortless to capture professional-looking video.
- Includes Hero12 Black Camera, Enduro battery, USB-C cable, curved adhesive mount, mounting buckle, and thumb screw.
- Rugged & Waterproof to 33ft (10m).
- 2x Longer Runtime with Enduro battery (up to 70 minutes at 5.3K60).
- Unbelievable 5.3K Video & 27MP Photos with HDR.
- Emmy Award-Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization and 360° Horizon Lock.
- Extra-Large Field of View and Up to 8x Slo-Mo.
- Bluetooth Audio Connectivity for external mics/earbuds.
Pros:
– Comprehensive package for immediate use.
– Vastly improved battery life with Enduro battery.
– Superior video quality and stabilization.
– Horizon lock and Bluetooth audio are major advantages.
Cons:
– Still a premium price.
– Steep learning curve for maximizing all features for new users.
User Impressions: Buyers appreciate the convenience of the package and the extended battery life. The advanced features like Horizon Lock and Bluetooth audio are frequently highlighted as significant improvements for diverse shooting scenarios.
See it on Amazon here
6. GoPro HERO10 Black- E-Commerce Packaging – Waterproof…
The GoPro HERO10 Black was a monumental leap forward, thanks to its revolutionary GP2 processor. This engine unlocked double the frame rate for unbelievably smooth footage, making it a powerful upgrade for anyone seeking to enhance their video output beyond what the GoPro HERO5 Black offers. From sharper 23MP photos to stunning 5.3K video at 60fps, the HERO10 delivers exceptional image quality and responsiveness, cementing its place as a strong contender even with newer models out.
- Revolutionary GP2 Processor for faster performance and double the frame rate.
- High-Res 23MP photos and 5.3K video at 60fps.
- Unbelievable Image Quality with 91% more resolution than 4K.
- HyperSmooth 4.0 for incredibly smooth footage, even in low light.
- Fast, Reliable Connectivity for easy transfers and cloud upload.
Pros:
– Significant performance boost from the GP2 chip.
– Excellent 5.3K video quality.
– Highly effective HyperSmooth 4.0 stabilization.
– Improved low-light performance.
Cons:
– Battery life can be shorter than newer models without the Enduro battery.
– Can run warm during extended high-resolution recording.
User Impressions: Many consider the HERO10 Black a fantastic value now, offering near-flagship performance at a more accessible price. The speed and image quality are frequently praised as major upgrades.
See it on Amazon here
7. GoPro HERO11 Black – E-Commerce Packaging – Waterproof…
The GoPro HERO11 Black introduced a revolutionary new image sensor that provides the most expansive field of view ever on a HERO camera, right out of the box. This innovative sensor captures more of the sky and horizon, giving you incredible creative flexibility to crop, zoom, and adjust aspect ratios in post-production while maintaining stunning clarity. For anyone wanting to make their video truly cinematic and versatile, the HERO11 Black offers a significant upgrade in resolution and stabilization from their existing GoPro HERO5 Black setup.
- Revolutionary New Image Sensor for the most expansive field of view.
- Unbelievable Image Quality with 5.3K video (91% more resolution than 4K) and 27MP photos.
- High-Res Photos + Videos, High Frame Rate including 2.7K240 for 8x slo-mo.
- Emmy Award-Winning HyperSmooth 5.0 Stabilization with Horizon Lock and AutoBoost.
- Includes HERO11 Black Camera, One Enduro Battery, Curved Adhesive Mount, Mounting Buckle + Thumb Screw, USB-C Cable.
Pros:
– Groundbreaking image sensor for versatile framing.
– Excellent 5.3K video and 27MP photo resolution.
– Superior HyperSmooth 5.0 stabilization with Horizon Lock.
– Includes the Enduro battery for improved runtime.
Cons:
– Still a premium-priced item.
– File sizes can be very large with 5.3K footage.
User Impressions: The HERO11 Black is highly rated for its “cinematic” output and the flexibility offered by its new sensor. Users love the ability to reframe shots later, and the stabilization is frequently described as flawless.
See it on Amazon here
8. COOLSHOW Hero 7 6 5 Battery Replacement (2 Packs) and…
One of the most common frustrations with action cameras like the GoPro HERO5 Black is battery life, especially when shooting high-quality video. The COOLSHOW battery replacement kit is a lifesaver, providing two high-capacity 1220mAh batteries and a triple charger. This means you can keep your HERO5 Black (or 6/7 Black) running all day, capturing every moment without the constant worry of a drained battery. Plus, with multiple safety protections, you can charge with peace of mind.
- Simultaneous Charging: Charge 2 batteries simultaneously or individually with an LCD display.
- High Capacity: Each 1220mAh battery rated at 3.85V for extended recording.
- Dependable Protection: Four-layer protection (over-charging, short-circuit, high-temperature, surge) with FCC, CE, RoHS certifications.
- Flawless Compatibility: Perfectly compatible with GoPro Hero 5/6/7 Black and Hero 2018 cameras.
- What you get: 2 packs 1220 mAh batteries, 1 Triple Charger, 1 USB Cord.
Pros:
– Extends recording time significantly.
– Allows charging multiple batteries at once.
– Built-in safety features for secure charging.
– Excellent value for money.
Cons:
– Not compatible with newer GoPro models (HERO8 onwards).
– May charge slower than official GoPro chargers.
User Impressions: Users are very happy with the extended recording time provided by these batteries, often stating they work just as well as the original GoPro batteries at a fraction of the cost. The triple charger is a huge convenience.
See it on Amazon here
9. FitStill 148FT/45M Underwater Waterproof Protective Case…
Taking your GoPro HERO5 Black underwater for spectacular video footage requires serious protection. The FitStill Underwater Waterproof Protective Case is designed to provide ultimate safeguarding for your camera down to an impressive 148 feet (45 meters). Beyond just protection, it features a large flat glass lens for maximum image sharpness both above and below water, and even includes a high-transparency diving filter and anti-fog inserts for truly clear and vivid underwater video. This is essential for serious aquatic adventures.
- Wide Compatibility: Perfectly compatible with GoPro Hero 2018/7/6/5 Black cameras.
- 45M/148FT Waterproof: Upgraded sealing ring and tight buckle for effective water leakage prevention.
- 0.4″ Bigger and 35% Thicker than standard housings for enhanced durability.
- Large Flat Glass Lens for maximum image sharpness.
- High Transparency Diving Filter for clarity and color fidelity underwater, plus Anti-fog inserts.
- Floating Grip included to prevent sinking and provide secure handling.
Pros:
– Extremely robust and deep-water submersible.
– Improves underwater video quality with flat lens and filter.
– Prevents fogging.
– Includes a floating grip for added security.
Cons:
– Not compatible with HERO7 Silver/White editions.
– Can add bulk to the camera.
User Impressions: Divers and snorkelers highly recommend this case for its superior build quality and the clarity of the underwater footage it enables. The included filter and anti-fog inserts are often highlighted as key benefits.
See it on Amazon here
10. GoPro HERO5 Black Waterproof Digital Action Camera w/ 4K…
If you love your current GoPro HERO5 Black but it’s seen better days, or you want a reliable backup, a certified refurbished HERO5 Black is an excellent option. This is the camera that set a high standard for action video, offering stunning 4K video and 12MP photos without needing an additional housing for depths up to 33ft (10m). It’s a testament to its enduring quality and a great way to re-experience the features that made it a fan favorite, ensuring you continue to capture great video with a proven model.
- Certified Refurbished product: Tested and certified to look and work like new, with a minimum 90-day warranty.
- Stunning 4K video and 12MP photos in Single, Burst, and Time Lapse modes.
- Durable by design, waterproof to 33ft (10m) without a housing.
- Preview and playback shots, change settings, and trim footage directly on the camera.
Pros:
– Cost-effective way to get a fully functional HERO5 Black.
– Excellent 4K video quality for its generation.
– Built-in waterproofing simplifies use.
– Intuitive touchscreen interface.
Cons:
– Older generation technology (e.g., stabilization, low light) compared to newer models.
– Does not include a charger.
User Impressions: Buyers of refurbished units are generally satisfied, finding them to be a great way to get a reliable GoPro at a budget-friendly price. It’s often praised as a solid performer for general use and as a secondary camera.
See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is the GoPro HERO5 Black still good for video in 2024?
A1: Yes, absolutely! While newer models offer advanced features like better stabilization and higher frame rates, the GoPro HERO5 Black still captures excellent 4K video, making it perfectly capable for vlogging, action shots, and casual adventures. With the right accessories, you can certainly enhance its capabilities.
Q2: What’s the most important accessory for improving video quality on a GoPro HERO5 Black?
A2: For overall video quality, especially if you’re experiencing shaky footage, a good gimbal (though not listed here, external stabilization is key) or upgrading to a newer GoPro with advanced built-in HyperSmooth stabilization would be most impactful. For audio quality, a windslayer cover is crucial. For underwater shots, a dedicated waterproof housing with a flat lens will make a huge difference.
Q3: How can I improve battery life when recording long videos with my GoPro HERO5 Black?
A3: The best way to improve battery life is to carry spare high-capacity batteries and a multi-battery charger, like the COOLSHOW kit reviewed above. You can also optimize settings by reducing resolution or frame rate if maximum quality isn’t needed, and turning off Wi-Fi/Bluetooth when not in use.
Q4: Can I use newer GoPro accessories with my GoPro HERO5 Black?
A4: It depends on the accessory. Many universal GoPro mounts and some older housing-specific accessories are compatible across generations. However, newer Mods (like the Max Lens Mod) and certain camera-specific cases or batteries are designed only for the latest GoPro models (HERO8 Black and newer) and won’t fit your GoPro HERO5 Black. Always check compatibility before purchasing.
Q5: What’s the main difference between GoPro HERO5 Black and newer models like HERO12 Black?
A5: The biggest differences lie in video resolution (HERO12 goes up to 5.3K vs. HERO5’s 4K), vastly superior in-camera stabilization (HyperSmooth 6.0 vs. HERO5’s electronic image stabilization), improved low-light performance, better dynamic range, advanced audio features (like Bluetooth mic support), and longer battery life with Enduro batteries.
Q6: Why is a windslayer cover important for GoPro video recording?
A6: GoPro cameras, especially older models, can pick up significant wind noise, making audio unusable in outdoor, windy conditions. A windslayer cover, made of special foam, acts as a barrier, effectively dampening the wind hitting the microphone and allowing clearer, more usable audio to be recorded with your GoPro HERO5 Black (and similar models).
Q7: Is it worth upgrading from a GoPro HERO5 Black to a newer GoPro model?
A7: If you frequently shoot action sports, require ultra-stable footage, need better low-light performance, or want higher resolutions/frame rates for professional-looking content, upgrading is definitely worth it. Newer models offer a significant leap in image quality and features that the HERO5 Black cannot match. However, for casual use, your HERO5 Black remains a solid choice, especially with the right accessories.
