Do You Still Need the Latest and Greatest?
GoPro has released so many new models over the years that it can be tempting to always want the latest flagship camera with all the newest features. However, depending on your budget and needs, an older GoPro can still be a great option that allows you to capture stunning footage.
While new models like the HERO11 Black have excellent image stabilization, 5.3K video resolution, and useful touches like a front-facing screen, older cameras have come down significantly in price and can meet the needs of many users.
HERO3: The Camera That Made Action Videos Mainstream
The GoPro HERO3 series from 2012-2014 is what put GoPro on the map. Offering capabilities that mass market consumers had never seen before in an action camera, the HERO3 delivered sharp video and images in a rugged, mountable body.
Key specs of the HERO3 line included:
- 1080p and 4K video options
- 12MP photos
- Burst photo rates up to 30 fps
- WiFi connectivity
- Waterproof housing good to 131 feet
While video resolution and frames per second specs are lower than today‘s models, the HERO3 remains a versatile camera for capturing vacation videos, family moments, and outdoor adventures with plenty of detail and vibrant color.
HERO4: Faster and Smoother Footage
Released in 2014, the HERO4 brought faster frame rates for slo-mo playback and higher resolution 4K/UHD recording up to 30 fps. The top of the line HERO4 Black featured:
- 4K video up to 30 fps
- 1080p video up to 120 fps
- 12MP photos at 30 fps burst
- Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity
The excellent image quality, faster capture speeds, and wireless functionality check the core boxes for an affordable yet powerful action cam. While they lack some of the fancy shooting modes, stabilization tech, and creature comforts of newer cameras, HERO4 models can still produce pro-level POV and underwater videos.
HERO5:Where Waterproofing Got Serious
With 2016‘s HERO5 series, GoPro pushed ahead with 4K60 video in the Black edition while improving waterproof capabilities. HERO5 highlights include:
- 4K video up to 60 fps
- 12MP photos at 30 fps burst
- Waterproof to 33 feet without a case
- 2-inch touchscreen
- Voice control
- GPS
While the battery life, touchscreen performance, and low-light capabilities lag a bit behind newer offerings, the rugged waterproof design makes the HERO5 a top value choice for surfing, snorkeling, kayaking, and other aquatic pursuits.
HERO6: Smoother Footage and Faster Focus
The HERO6 from 2017 delivered GoPro‘s first boosted in-camera video stabilization plus improved low-light performance thanks to a custom imaging chip. Advantages of the HERO6 Black:
- 4K60 video
- 12MP photos at 30 fps burst
- Improved stabilization
- Faster auto focus
- Zoom during recording
- Voice control
This high-performance model sits in the sweet spot between price and capabilities, delivering pro-quality 4K footage that looks smooth and professional thanks to advanced stabilization. While it can‘t match 10-bit color and hyper-smooth tech that today‘s premium models offer, the HERO6 remains an outstanding camera.
Accessories That Enhance Your Older GoPro‘s Abilities
While your older GoPro‘s core performance stats can‘t be upgraded, certain accessories can greatly improve its usability:
External Mic Adapters – Capture higher fidelity audio by adding an external mic such as the Comica CVM-VM10-K SmartMi or Rode VideoMicro.
Housing BacPacs – Give your older camera extended battery life or a touchscreen playback display with BacPac accessories.
Filters – Polarizer, neutral density, and underwater color correction filters help you get pro-style shots.
Battery Packs – Upgrade battery capacity for all-day shooting with high capacity packs from Wasabi Power.
Head & Body Mounts – Capture a skier‘s POV with curve and flat surface helmets mounts. Chest harnesses, wrist straps, and ankle mounts open new creative possibilities.
