Our team of experts has tested every GoPro since the HD Hero2 back in 2012. Things have changed a lot since then: today's best GoPro action cameras shoot sharper, smarter, and steadier than ever. Because we’ve reviewed every GoPro along the way, we know exactly what sets the best apart from the rest, and we've distilled that know-how into this guide to help you find your ideal GoPro.
The Hero 13 Black shows just what the latest GoPro cameras are capable of. The flagship model builds on a proven formula, shooting clear 5.3K footage. When we tested it, it was the addition of auto-detected Lens Mods and ND filters that stood out among all action cams, plus better battery life and GPS. We think it’s the most complete GoPro you can buy.
That said, there’s an option in the GoPro lineup for every buyer and budget. We've put each of them to the test, and you'll find our in-depth insights and sample footage (shot by our team) below to give you a feel for the quality you can expect from each camera. All of our testing is done in-house, based on real-world insights, so you can rest assured our recommendations are trustworthy.
I'm TechRadar's Cameras editor, with over 15 years in the photo video industry and most of those in the world of tech journalism. GoPro is the original action camera, and its flagship Hero model continues to set the standard for recording sharp, smooth video in a range of conditions, despite DJI and Insta360's established presence in this space. That said, the core tech in the current Hero 13 Black is the same as the Hero 11 Black, so if you don't need the very latest features, you can save money by choosing an older model.
Why you can trust TechRadar
TechRadar has reviewed every major GoPro action camera since the first model hit the market in 2012. Each model in this guide has been tested individually and extensively by one of TechRadar’s experts, and we test rival action cams from the likes of DJI and Insta360, too.
☑️ 100s of cameras reviewed
☑️ 15 years of product testing
☑️ Over 16,000 products reviewed in total
☑️ Nearly 200,000 hours testing tech
We factor our combined years of experience testing cameras and our knowledge of previous models into every review. Each camera is tested in real-world conditions, too, and we focus on action videos and photography – which is where GoPros really excel. We'll also consider the usability, ruggedness, battery life, record times (including any overheating), and image quality.
Then, we compare our shortlisted GoPros against rivals in the same price range to give you a clear idea of what's available on the market.
All of our advice is based on our first-hand findings, not just the technical specs, and whether you're buying your first GoPro or upgrading, every pick here has earned its place.
Meet the team
Mark is TechRadar's Senior news editor and has been a technology journalist since 2004. Formerly Trusted Reviews and TechRadar's Cameras Editor, Mark has tested cameras over many years from all of the leading brands.
Sam has been writing about tech and digital culture for over 20 years, starting off in video games journalism before branching out into the wonderful worlds of consumer electronics, streaming entertainment and photography. Over the years he has written for Wired, Stuff, GQ, T3, Trusted Reviews and PC Zone, and now lives on the Kent coast in the UK – the ideal place for a camera reviewer to ply their trade.
Best GoPro specs compared
Running the numbers in your head can be difficult. To help you make sense of what the best GoPro action cameras offer on paper, we’ve set out the specs for our top three models side-by-side in the table below. Specs only tell half the story, though, so be sure to read our in-depth review of each GoPro to get the full picture.
| Row 0 - Cell 0 | GoPro Hero 13 Black | GoPro Hero (2024) | GoPro Hero 11 Black |
List price (usually available for less) | $399 / £399.99 / AU$649.95 | $199.99 / £199.99 / AU$349.99 | $249.99 / £249.99 / AU$429.95 |
Max. video resolution | 5.3K/60fps | 4K/30fps | 5.3K/30fps |
Max. photo resolution | 27MP | 12MP | 27MP |
Slo-mo | 5.3K/120fps, 2.7K/240fps | 2.7K/60fps | 2.7K/240fps |
Stabilization | HyperSmooth 6.0 | None (in-camera) | HyperSmooth 5.0 |
Waterproof | 33ft / 10m | 16ft / 5m | 33ft / 10m |
Battery | 1900mAh | 1125mAh | 1720mAh |
Weight | 159g | 86g | 153g |
Today's best GoPro cameras
Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you're buying the best. Find out more about how we test.
Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best GoPros in our list. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.
Best GoPro overall
GoPro Hero 13 Black sample video
✅ You want GoPro's best action cam: The iterative update of the Hero 12 Black boasts better battery life, slow-mo modes, new auto-detected Lens Mods and ND filters, plus the return of GPS.
✅ You want a cinematic video camera: New Lens Mods combine with powerful slow-mo modes and new color profiles that filmmakers will appreciate.
❌ You don’t want to spend a lot: The new Lens Mods are a major selling point, but they're undeniably pricey, and older GoPros are better all-around value.
❌ You're upgrading from the Hero 12 Black: The Hero 13 Black isn't a huge leap forward from its predecessor and is more of an iterative update.
GoPro's latest flagship, the Hero 13 Black, is a minor upgrade from its predecessor, the Hero 12 Black. It features the same 8:7 aspect ratio, 1/1.9-inch sensor, 5.3K video resolution, superb HyperSmooth stabilization to smooth out your clips, and pretty much the same design, including the same 33ft / 10m waterproofing specs. In fact, you'll find all of this in the Hero 11 Black, too. So, according to the specs, it's probably not worth upgrading if you're happy with your Hero 11 Black or Hero 12 Black – though we don't think you should write off the Hero 13 Black just yet. The few tweaks that have been made are pretty nifty.
Updates include improved Slo-Mo video modes, with options ranging from 5.3K / 120fps to 720p / 400fps. Our in-depth testing found these modes a little niche – record times are limited while processing time of those sequences. Then there's the much-needed improved battery life and heat dissipation that extend record times, the introduction of magnetic mounting (finally), and the return of GPS with performance sticker overlays – a welcome addition compatible with devices from the likes of Garmin.
However, it's the new auto-detected HB-series of Lens Mods and ND filters that really stands out. Unique to the Hero 13 Black, the camera optimizes camera settings when it detects a new mod is attached and includes a handy Macro Lens Mod plus an Anamorphic Lens Mod in the pipeline for 2025. These are costly extras, but they open the Hero 13 Black up to a host of new users. DJI and Insta360 might be making up more ground than GoPro with action cameras, but the Hero 13 Black is a polished flagship that remains our top pick for now.
Read our in-depth GoPro Hero 13 Black review
Best beginner GoPro
✅ You want a tiny action cam: At just 86g and measuring 56.6 x 47.7 x 29.4mm, the Hero (2024) is an especially discreet GoPro.
✅ You want a simple camera: Stripped back to the basics, the Hero is easy as 1, 2, 3 (literally, there are only three modes).
❌ You want GoPro's best image quality: For a similar price, you can pick up an older Hero Black-series model that'll give you better 5.3K video quality.
❌ You're hoping for good quality audio: No option for an external mic means that you rely on the basic internal mic.
Launched alongside the Hero 13 Black, the all-new Hero (2024) is a cheap and cheerful entry-level model. It's GoPro's smallest and lightest action camera, tipping the scales at just 86g. The little GoPro is stripped back to basics for beginners, too, with just three shooting modes to choose from: photo, video and slow-mo.
You don't get nearly the same degree of function and features as the flagship Hero Black-series, which is kind of the point, but is also a limiting factor in real-world use. For one, you don't get GoPro's incredible Hypersmooth Stabilization, just electronic stabilization. To be fair, this simpler stabilization does a decent job of smoothing out your footage, while the tiny 1,225mAh battery provides surprisingly lengthy record times. We were able to get around 80 minutes of video footage during our in-depth testing.
If you're hoping for the best bang for buck, the older Hero 10 Black is better value. However, many users will not make the most of the flagship series arsenal of features, and beginners should be well served by the Hero (2024). We would prefer its 4K image quality to be a little better, while slow motion video is limited to just 2.7K up to 60fps. Handling-wise, there's no front screen for selfies, while waterproofing is just 5m, half that of the Hero Black series models. All that being said, the Hero fulfills its brief as a small and simple action cam.
Read our in-depth GoPro Hero (2024) review
Best value GoPro
✅ You shoot for social: Thanks to an almost-square 8:7 aspect ratio, the sensor inside the Hero 11 Black is more versatile when exporting video for social media.
✅ You want good value: Offering flagship features such as 10-bit video at a lower price than the latest models, the Hero 11 Black hits the sweet spot for social creators.
❌ You want external and dual-channel audio tools: Enhanced audio connectivity is only available with more recent Hero 12 Black and Hero 13 Black models.
❌ You'd like to swap lenses: The auto-detected lens mods are the Hero 13 Black's top upgrade, unleashing cinematic anamorphic shots and better close-focusing skills.
Rather than suggesting the Hero 12 Black as the best Hero 13 Black alternative, there's a case for the Hero 11 Black being a wiser choice. After all, all three models have the sensor with an 8:7 aspect ratio and 5.3K-resolution video, which makes it easier to export videos in different formats – such as 9:16 for TikTok and Instagram – without losing any quality or resolution. The other headline feature is support for 10-bit video, something usually found only in the best video cameras. This makes it easier for video editors to fine-tune footage and avoid issues like color banding in skies, particularly when shooting in GoPro's 'flat' color profile.
The Hero 12 Black was a disappointing update of the Hero 11 Black, and most of its tweaks were for pro-users and audiofiles. GoPro inexplicably removed the GPS function from the latter model, too. Add to that the fact that the Hero 11 Black can be purchased for much less than the Hero 12 Black, while being the same user-friendly action camera with all of the GoPro hallmarks, including excellent image stabilization, and it gets our nod as the best Hero 13 Black alternative, and most affordable option for some of GoPro's best-ever action cam features.
Read our Hero 11 Black hands-on review
Best 360-degree GoPro
GoPro Max 2 sample video
✅ You need 360-degree video: The GoPro Max 2 is a boss at capturing and creating immersive 360-degree video in 8K, with an easy editing workflow.
✅ You want in-camera stitching: The GoPro Max 2 handles all the stitching on board, so there's no manual alignment to manage afterwards.
❌ You want a great action camera: GoPro's standard Hero cameras are better suited to shooting traditional, flat-frame footage.
❌ You want high-res video footage: This action camera is specifically designed for 360-degree video, so the resolution of standard video is not so good.
The GoPro Max 2 upgraded the original Max from 2019 with a string of improvements: 360 video in 8K with 10-bit color depth, which, in our tests, looked like the best quality video of any 360 camera, provided the light is good. It also introduced tool-free swappable lenses, should the originals get damaged, which is much more cost-effective than buying a new camera!
Overall, the Max 2 is a sizable upgrade from the Max, but its core remains the same; both use two 180-degree fisheye lenses to capture anything in the direct line of sight, and these two hemispherical video files are then stitched together automatically, which is a massive timesaver, and the GoPro smartphone app lets you edit and publish spherical media from start to finish on your phone. This shooting process expands the types of shots you can create, especially when recording action. It saves you from worrying about getting everything in shot and lets you focus on what you’re actually doing.
The Max 2 also benefits from decent 16ft / 5m water resistance, in-built retractable mounting fingers and is compact enough to be compatible with GoPro’s entire range of mounting solutions. To round out the top-line features, the Max 2 has a solid internal microphone audio array that captures a truly three-dimensional soundscape. Don't need 8K shooting? The original Max shoots 5.6K and has come down massively in price since the Max 2 release.
Read our in-depth GoPro Max 2 review
How to choose the best GoPro
How to choose the best GoPro
With such a long line of GoPro models to choose from, finding the right one can be tricky.
Resolution
The most recent GoPro action cameras are capable of shooting the sharpest footage (up to 5.3K). That said, GoPro cameras have been capable of recording 5K footage since 2021, so while older models don’t necessarily offer the latest cutting-edge features, you don’t need to shell out for the most recent model to get sharp video.
Image stabilization
The latest models feature GoPro's most advanced HyperSmooth stabilization and horizon-leveling smarts for super steady footage in all conditions. If your activities aren't going to push your action camera to the limit, though, older versions of the system will suit you fine. The GoPro Hero 7 Black (launched in 2017) was the first to offer HyperSmooth stabilization.
Live streaming
Eager to stream? Every GoPro model back to the GoPro Hero 7 supports live streaming – and GoPro subscribers can even create private stream links to share directly with friends, family, and fans. However, you’ll need a minimum of 1,000 subscribers to stream to YouTube.
Mounting
More recent GoPro models have included a few genuinely useful upgrades. Built-in mounting fingers make it much easier to attach your action cam to different mounts – or fold them away for use as a tidy vlogging tool.
Accessories
If you’d like the option to enhance your shooting package with modular accessories – such as an LED light or an improved mic for clearer audio quality – then look for a GoPro with support for Media Mods.
360 video
Keen to record 360-degree footage? The GoPro Max is the best option for capturing fully immersive 360 video.
What SD card do I need for a GoPro?
SD memory cards come in a handful of sizes. Most compact, DSLR, and mirrorless cameras use standard SD cards, which are the size of a postage stamp. GoPro cameras use microSD cards. These memory cards are much smaller, and they are the same format used by most smartphones with expandable storage.
So you’ll need a microSD card for your GoPro. You’ll often find one bundled in if you buy a new GoPro. Capacity is important, particularly if you’ll be shooting a lot of footage before transferring it to your smartphone or laptop. Every GoPro after the Hero7 Black (including the Max) can support memory cards with up to 512GB of storage space, which should be enough to record up to 15 hours of 4K footage at 60fps.
Just as important is a memory card’s transfer speed rating. This refers to how fast footage can be recorded to the card. It’s important if you’re planning to shoot at 4K or sharper: the card needs to be quick enough to save the footage as it’s created. For the GoPro Hero 10 Black, look for a memory card with at least the v30 or UHS-3 rating. For the Hero 9 Black, Hero 8 Black, Hero 7 Black, and Max, the minimum requirement is a microSD card with a Class 10 or UHS-1 rating.
Not sure which microSD card is the best for your GoPro? Sandisk’s Extreme, Extreme Plus and Extreme Pro models are recommended by GoPro, as is Lexar’s Professional 1066x Silver Series. For a full list, check out GoPro's official SD cards that will work with GoPro cameras page.
How we test GoPro cameras
GoPros are among the toughest cameras around, so we properly put them through their paces to make sure they live up to their rugged billing – and can shoot excellent video and stills, too.
We take each one through a range of real-world tests, including cycling, swimming, and, if possible, an experience like an adventure course. These not only give us a good idea of each model's ability to withstand the elements, but also how easy they are to operate in difficult conditions.
When it comes to footage, we record in a variety of resolutions and frame rates to help gauge each action camera's strengths and review these clips on a calibrated monitor. We look at default color reproduction and noise levels in shadows and highlights, and look out for any common image quality issues, including clipping, softness, barrel distortion, and over-zealous processing.
We go through a similar process to analyze each GoPro's image stabilization (called HyperSmooth in its most recent models), which is crucial to maintaining image quality during movement, and look at the quality of any special shooting modes too, including slo-mo and timelapses.
For battery life tests, we continuously record at different resolutions and frame-rates. We note down both how long the action cams lasts and when it has to shut down due to overheating. Lastly, we evaluate how user-friendly each GoPro is, by testing both their touchscreen interfaces and companion apps.