GoPro HERO review

The HERO is GoPro's smallest 4K camera and a simpler, cheaper entry to the brand. GoPro says it has 35% less volume and 46% less mass than the HERO13 Black, and it still works with 35 GoPro mounts and accessories, so helmet and handlebar mounts carry over. It records 4K30 and 1080p30, with 2.7K60 and 1080p60 for slow motion, plus 12 MP photos. It is waterproof up to 16 ft and has a replaceable water-repelling lens cover. Two trade-offs matter for active use. The battery is built in, so you cannot swap a spare on a long ride and GoPro suggests topping it up like a phone. Stabilization is applied in the GoPro Quik app, not on the camera, so clips look shaky until you export them from Quik. It also does not take HB-Series lenses. For short clips at the beach or on family trips, that simplicity is the point.

Who it is for

Beginners, kids and casual travelers who want a small, simple GoPro for 4K clips at a lower price.

Price

$219.99 at GoPro's US store when checked.

Compare Bundles HERO $219.99
Quoted from the vendor pricing page on November 9, 2026.

Key features

• 4K30 and 1080p30 video, 2.7K60 and 1080p60 slo-mo
• 12 MP photos
• 35% less volume and 46% less mass than HERO13 Black
• Waterproof up to 16 ft
• Compatible with 35 GoPro mounts and accessories

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: Very simple controls
• Strength: Much smaller and lighter than the HERO13 Black
• Strength: Fits common GoPro mounts
• Weakness: Built-in battery cannot be swapped
• Weakness: Stabilization is applied only in the Quik app
• Weakness: Not compatible with HB-Series lenses

Key facts

• Max video: 4K at 30 fps
• Photos: 12 MP
• Waterproof: Up to 16 ft
• Battery: Built in
• Mounts: 35 GoPro mounts and accessories

Where it ranks

GoPro HERO is No. 6 in our Best Action Cameras verdict.