The GoPro HERO4 Black Edition might not be the newest kid on the block, but it’s still a powerhouse when it comes to capturing your adventures in stunning detail. Known for its robust build, impressive 4K video capabilities, and overall reliability, many enthusiasts still swear by it. Whether you’re looking to replace your trusty camera, snag a backup, or simply find the best for GoPro HERO4 Black Edition to enhance your existing setup, you’re in the right place.
We’ve scoured the market to bring you a curated list of top products that either perfectly complement your HERO4 Black or offer a compelling upgrade path if you’re ready to take your action videography to the next level. Let’s dive in and see what makes these picks stand out!
1. GoPro HERO4 Black Edition Camera (Renewed)
Sometimes, the best solution is to stick with what you know and love. This renewed GoPro HERO4 Black Edition offers an incredible opportunity to get your hands on this legendary action camera without breaking the bank. It’s perfect for replacing a lost or damaged unit, or simply adding a second camera to your gear bag for multi-angle shots. You’re getting the same professional-grade performance that made the HERO4 Black a favorite, including its impressive 4K video and advanced manual controls, all thoroughly inspected to ensure it performs like new.
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Key Features:
- Professional 4K30, 2.7K60, and 1080p120 video capture
- 720p240 video for super slow-motion playback
- 12MP photos at up to 30 frames per second burst
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for GoPro App and Smart Remote control
- Improved camera control and built-in video trimming
- Protune with SuperView for cinema-quality capture and immersive wide-angle views
- Night Photo and Night Lapse for customizable low-light shooting
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Pros:
- Cost-effective way to get the iconic HERO4 Black
- Excellent video and photo quality for its generation
- Compact and durable design
- Extensive accessory ecosystem already available
- Great for those who prefer physical buttons over touchscreens
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Cons:
- Being a renewed product, availability can vary
- Lacks some modern features found in newer GoPros (e.g., advanced stabilization)
- Battery life is typical for older models
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User Impressions: Many users are thrilled with the value proposition, reporting that the renewed cameras perform exceptionally well, often indistinguishable from new units. It’s a popular choice for those wanting the classic GoPro experience without the hefty price tag of a brand-new model.
2. GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition – Waterproof Action Camera
Alright, so this isn’t an accessory for your HERO4 Black, but if you’re considering an upgrade, the GoPro HERO13 Black Ultra Wide Edition is a serious contender. It pushes the boundaries of immersive capture, coming with the Ultra Wide Lens Mod already attached, giving you an insane 177° field of view. Imagine capturing entire landscapes or incredibly dynamic POV footage that truly pulls your viewers into the action. If your HERO4 Black has served you well but you crave next-level wide-angle capabilities and stabilization, this is your ticket.
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Key Features:
- Ultra Wide Lens Mod provides up to 177° FOV
- Pro-quality 4K60 video with multiple digital lenses (Linear, Wide, Ultra Wide, Ultra SuperView, Ultra HyperView)
- Unbreakable HyperSmooth Stabilization in all resolutions
- Easy vertical capture for social media content
- Waterproof design (no extra housing needed for basic dives)
- Includes essential accessories like Enduro Battery, mounts, and protective caps
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Pros:
- Unmatched ultra-wide immersion
- Exceptional video stabilization makes footage buttery smooth
- Versatile shooting modes for creative freedom
- Improved low-light performance over older models
- “Out of the box” readiness for wide-angle shooting
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Cons:
- A significant investment compared to just buying an accessory
- May be overkill if you only need standard wide angles
- Higher learning curve for some advanced features
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User Impressions: Users rave about the HyperSmooth stabilization and the truly immersive feel of the ultra-wide footage. Content creators particularly love the vertical capture option for social media, making it a dream for modern sharing. It’s often highlighted as a game-changer for POV and action sports videography.
3. GoPro Hero4 Black
This is the original! The GoPro Hero4 Black is the camera that set benchmarks for action cam performance years ago. If you’re a purist, or just looking for a new-in-box unit of this legendary device, this is your chance. It’s the ultimate expression of the best for GoPro HERO4 Black Edition experience, offering robust performance for everything from casual family videos to adrenaline-pumping extreme sports. Its manual control capabilities via Protune make it a favorite for those who like to fine-tune their shots.
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Key Features:
- Professional 4K30, 2.7K60, and 1080p120 video
- 720p240 video for incredible super slow-motion
- 12MP photos at up to 30 frames per second burst mode
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for smart connectivity
- Improved camera control and in-camera video trimming
- Protune with SuperView for advanced manual control and immersive wide-angle shots
- Night Photo and Night Lapse for customizable exposure in dark conditions
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Pros:
- Original, untouched performance of the classic HERO4 Black
- Reliable and durable build quality
- Excellent video and photo capabilities for its generation
- Vast ecosystem of compatible mounts and accessories
- Familiar interface for existing HERO4 users
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Cons:
- New-in-box availability might be limited or more expensive
- Lacks touchscreen found on Silver edition or newer models
- No built-in electronic image stabilization
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User Impressions: Long-time GoPro fans often express nostalgia and appreciation for the Hero4 Black’s straightforward design and powerful capture modes. They praise its consistent performance and ruggedness, making it a reliable workhorse for many adventures.
4. Replacement USB Charger Data Cable Cord For GoPro HD HERO4 Silver Black Edition
Sometimes, the simplest things are the most crucial. If you’re looking for the best for GoPro HERO4 Black Edition in terms of essential maintenance and connectivity, a reliable charging and data transfer cable is a must-have. This replacement USB cable is specifically designed for your HERO4 Black (and Silver) Edition, ensuring you can quickly charge your camera and seamlessly transfer your epic footage to your computer. Don’t let a lost or damaged cable stop your adventures dead in their tracks!
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Key Features:
- 3FT length for convenient use
- Compatible with GoPro HD HERO4 Silver Black Edition
- High-quality USB 2.0 charging and data transfer capabilities
- Ensures reliable power delivery and file transfer
- Brand new, ensuring optimal performance
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Pros:
- Essential accessory for charging and data transfer
- Affordable and readily available
- Directly compatible, ensuring no issues
- Good length for flexibility during use
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Cons:
- Only a cable, no other functionality
- USB 2.0 speed might be slower than modern USB-C for large files
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User Impressions: Users frequently praise this cable for its perfect compatibility and reliable performance. It’s a no-brainer replacement for lost or frayed original cables, providing peace of mind that your camera will always be ready to go.
5. GoPro HERO12 Black Creator Edition – Includes HERO12 Black
If you’re serious about content creation and your HERO4 Black is showing its age, the GoPro HERO12 Black Creator Edition offers a complete, all-in-one professional package. This isn’t just a camera; it’s a portable studio. It combines the cutting-edge HERO12 Black with key accessories like the Volta (battery grip/tripod/remote), Media Mod (for external mics, HDMI, etc.), and Light Mod. It’s designed for vloggers, filmmakers, and anyone who needs extended battery life, superior audio, and versatile lighting straight out of the box. Think of it as the ultimate upgrade if you need the best for GoPro HERO4 Black Edition in terms of overall ecosystem and modern capabilities.
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Key Features:
- All-in-one creative solution with HERO12 Black, Volta, Media Mod, and Light Mod
- Exceptional all-day capture with Enduro Battery plus Volta grip (over 5 hours of 4K30 recording)
- High Dynamic Range (HDR) video (5.3K and 4K) and photos for incredible detail
- Unbelievable image quality: 5.3K video (91% more resolution than 4K), 27MP photos
- Includes comprehensive accessories: carrying case, mounts, cables, etc.
- Improved cold weather performance with Enduro battery
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Pros:
- Complete kit for professional content creation
- Massively extended battery life for all-day shoots
- Superior image quality with HDR and higher resolutions
- Excellent audio and lighting control with included mods
- Incredible HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization
- Highly versatile and portable
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Cons:
- Significantly higher price point compared to the HERO4 Black
- May be overkill for casual users
- More complex setup with multiple components
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User Impressions: Creators are consistently impressed by the HERO12 Black Creator Edition’s integrated design and extended battery life, which is a common pain point for action cameras. The HDR video and professional audio capabilities are frequently highlighted as game-changers for serious video production.
Conclusion
Whether you’re holding onto your beloved HERO4 Black Edition or looking to make a significant leap forward, there are fantastic options out there. From the reliable renewed or new HERO4 Black itself, which continues to deliver incredible 4K footage, to essential accessories like replacement cables, and even the cutting-edge HERO12 and HERO13 models for those ready to upgrade – the choice depends on your needs and budget.
Ultimately, the “best” pick is one that perfectly aligns with your adventure-capturing goals. We hope this guide helps you find exactly what you’re looking for to enhance your GoPro experience, ensuring you never miss a moment of the action!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Is the GoPro HERO4 Black Edition still good in 2024?
A1: Yes, absolutely! While newer models offer advanced features like improved stabilization and higher frame rates, the HERO4 Black Edition still delivers excellent 4K video quality, 12MP photos, and robust performance, especially at its current price point. It’s a fantastic option for those who don’t need the absolute latest tech or prefer a more classic GoPro experience.
Q2: What are the main differences between the HERO4 Black and newer GoPro models like HERO12 or HERO13?
A2: Newer models typically boast significantly better image stabilization (HyperSmooth), higher frame rates for super slow-motion (e.g., 5K/60fps, 4K/120fps), improved low-light performance, built-in touchscreens, and longer battery life (especially with Enduro batteries). They also often feature enhanced audio, HDR video, and more sophisticated software features.
Q3: Can I use newer GoPro accessories with my HERO4 Black?
A3: It depends on the accessory. Many mounts (like adhesive mounts, head straps, chesty mounts) are universally compatible across almost all GoPro models. However, electronic accessories like Media Mods, Light Mods, or specific battery types are designed for newer cameras and will not be compatible with the HERO4 Black Edition due to different form factors and connections.
Q4: What’s the benefit of buying a renewed GoPro HERO4 Black Edition?
A4: The main benefit is cost savings. Renewed cameras are typically inspected, tested, and restored to full working order, offering a more affordable way to acquire a high-quality camera. It’s an environmentally friendly option too, giving products a second life. Always ensure you purchase from reputable sellers.
Q5: What kind of memory card should I use with my HERO4 Black Edition?
A5: The GoPro HERO4 Black Edition requires a high-quality microSD card (Class 10 or UHS-I rated) up to 128GB. For reliable 4K video recording, a UHS-I Speed Class 3 (U3) card is highly recommended to ensure sufficient write speeds.
Q6: Does the HERO4 Black have built-in image stabilization?
A6: No, the HERO4 Black Edition does not have built-in electronic image stabilization. For smoother footage, you would need to use a gimbal or rely on post-production stabilization software. This is one of the key areas where newer GoPro models have made significant advancements.
Q7: Is the GoPro HERO4 Black waterproof?
A7: The HERO4 Black camera itself is not waterproof without its housing. It requires the standard GoPro housing (typically included when new) to be waterproof up to 131 feet (40 meters). Always ensure the housing is properly sealed before any water activities.
