It is a known fact that GoPro is leading the market for action cameras, widely used by vloggers.
However, it can be challenging to choose between the numerous options GoPro offers its users.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or have been a user of GoPro for a long time, you must compare its various models and find the best fit as per your needs.
To aid you guys in doing so, I have summed up a list of the Best GoPro cameras for vlogging after experiencing them hands-on.
1- GoPro HERO10 Black (Recommended)
Special Features:
- GP-2 Processor: Powerful New GP2 Processor Delivers 2X Faster Video Frame Rates & Improved Low-Light performance for Vlogging.
- HyperSmooth 4.0: HyperSmooth 4.0 video stabilization captures the smoothest shake-free videos.
- Video Quality: GoPro Hero 10 has the highest video resolution of 5.3K delivers 91% more resolution than 4K which increases your vlog’s quality.
Overview:
It was pretty extensive research that I carried out for you guys, and I concluded that GoPro HERO 10 Black is hands down the Best GoPro for vlogging.
Hero10 can shoot up to 4K @120fps and slo-mo is way better than earlier models, and its functionality has improved substantially with the new processor.
It comes with the exact image resolution of 23MP as its predecessor, Hero 9 Black. However, it is more responsive, thanks to the new GP2 processor. GoPro has outdone itself once more; this new camera shoots in 5K @60fps, 4K @120fps, and 2.7K @240fps. The slo-mo feature is perfect for aesthetic vlogging clips or teasers for your new vlogs; the updated Quik app will do the editing for you for such scenes.
The camera is small and lightweight, just like GoPro’s other models, and therefore is very comfortable in hand and is easy to use for solo vloggers.
Oh, and there’s a new option of wire transfer for phones which is a time-saver. It is also waterproof up to 10 meters, without a case. Moreover, the HyperSmooth 4.0 image stabilization is one of the best.
I shot some videos and captured a few pictures while in motion, and GoPro Hero 10 delivered some fantastic results. The video was not shaky at all, and the images were also perfect.
Specifications:
Image resolution | 23MP |
Video resolution | 5.3K/60fps, 4K/120fps, 2.7K/240fps |
Stabilization | HyperSmooth 4.0 |
Weight | 150g |
Dimensions | 2.8*2.2*1.3 inches |
Slo-mo | 8x |
Processor | GP2 |
Battery | Removable 1720mAh Lithium-Ion |
Waterproof | Yes, 33ft (10m) |
Livestreaming | 1080p |
Cloud compatibility | Auto upload to GoPro cloud (subscription needed) |
Voice control | Yes |
Reason To Buy?
- Outclass video stabilization
- Marvelous video resolution
- Wired transfer feature
- Better interface
- 4K/120fps slo-mo is fun to use
- More responsive
Reason To Avoid?
- Battery life unimpressive
- Rivals offer more budget-friendly options
2- GoPro MAX
Special Features:
- 360° View & Audio: You can capture a 360° view & as well as 360° Audio while vlogging.
- Video: Record everything in a 360° view in up to 4992 x 2496 resolution video.
- Mobile App: Easily reframe or edit your vlog footage in GoPro Mobile App.
Overview:
The GoPro MAX is an option for those who want 360-degree angles for their vlogs.
This camera does not offer excellent video resolution like GoPro’s Hero 8 or later models, but it still produces dynamic and breathtaking videos and stills.
It is very versatile in terms of focal lengths as it gives you the choice of shooting at four different focal lengths; 13mm, 16mm, 19mm, and 27mm.
Where the regular videos can be shot at a max of 1080p 16:9 or 1440p 4:3, the 360-degree shots can be recorded at a 5.6K resolution.
If compared to its main rival, the Insta 360 One X, GoPro MAX gives out a way better final look, with its rich colors and smooth footage.
The 360-degree shots are amusingly stable, concluding that this camera houses effective stabilization. With the unique shots, you don’t have to really worry about framing; you can just shoot your clips and then, later on, edit them in the GoPro app.
This is a fun feature for vloggers trying to explore different shooting styles and bring more versatility to their content.
The angles matter when you are trying to engage your audience in your content; if it’s not comfortable to the eye of the viewer, then what’s even the point? Hence, this camera proves to be one of the Best GoPro cameras for vlogging.
Apart from its tiny size, it features six microphones fitted all over its body and a lens on both sides of the camera.
The fitted LCD is highly responsive and provides easy access to the camera setting; a fresher won’t have to explore much to figure everything out in this camera. There is not much to look for on this tiny device physically.
Furthermore, just like the Hero 8 line, the mount pops out of the base of the GoPro MAX and is handy for solo vloggers.
Along with that, what makes it more suitable for solo vloggers is the inclusion of a selfie screen; along with its small size, it proves to be one of the most comfortable vlogging cameras on the market.
Specifications:
Dimensions | 2.7*2.5*1.6 inches |
Weight | 164g |
Sensor | CMOS |
Image resolution | 18MP |
Video resolution | 5.6K 360 degree, 1080p/16:3, 1440p/4:3 |
ISO | 400-6400 |
Battery | GoPro ACBAT-001 |
Stabilization | Digital |
Display | 1.7 inches touch-sensitive touchscreen |
Connectivity | Bluetooth, USB-C, WiFi |
Waterproof | Yes down to 16 feet |
Memory card slots | 1 |
Memory card format | microSD, microSDXC, microSDHC |
Reason To Buy?
- On-camera stitching
- 5.6K video resolution @360 degrees
- Digital stabilization
- Small in size
- Flipping screen
- Outclass in-app editing
- Unique shots
Reason To Avoid?
- Shooting modes are limited
- Price point is high
3- GoPro Camera Fusion
Special Features:
- Stabilization: With the help of 6-axis stabilization, you can easily capture non-shaky footage.
- Video Quality: Record amazing vlogs in 5.2K @ 30fps & 3K @ 60fps video resolution.
- Waterproof: You can shoot 360° videos underwater up to 16 feet.
Overview:
GoPro Fusion is the first in line with its 360-degree action cameras. I’d say it is densely packed with outclass features and reasonably priced. Since it’s a bit older model, the price point isn’t very high, and it still provides you with all the good stuff.
It has 2 ultra-wide angled lenses that shoot a complete 360-degree video and images. It is designed to shoot in standard HD mode as well as in spherical 360-degree mode.
The device has a tough outer layer of rubber, with curved corners and a side grip-strip giving it a strong grip that feels highly comfortable in your hand.
The camera’s shape isn’t very ‘pocket-friendly,’ but it can easily fit into a fanny pack or a handbag, so it’s easily portable.
Along with all these ergonomic details, I would like to tell you all here that this little device comes with a tripod thread at its base, through which you can mount this camera easily on any tripod or GoPro mount.
Apart from the physical features of this debut 360-degree camera, let me tell you about the inner details too.
This fantastic camera shoots at 5.2K resolution angled 360 degrees at 30 fps and 3K at 60fps.
This is a pretty decent video resolution, given its price point. With the fantastic videos, it can also capture mind-blowing stills with its 18MP sensor.
However, the GoPro Fusion stands out in the new feature called over-capture, which allows you to shoot the scene first and then frame it afterward in the primary full HD widescreen mode.
This is an excellent feature for vlogging, especially travel vloggers, as they can first shoot the surrounding scenes followed by footage of themselves experiencing the cultures of the particular area, so your viewers are not missing out on anything which I think would engage your viewers in your content; when they feel like they are there in your video when they can feel themselves being physically there.
This camera features voice control, fantastic audio, and loads of sensors, making it unique from other 360–degree cameras.
Finally, the video stabilization is top-notch; the videos that I shot were not shaky, and the stills were amazing too, so I guess that’s it.
You should go for this device if you’re tight on budget but are still looking for a decent 360-degree action cam.
Specifications:
Dimensions | 2.91*2.95*1.57 inches |
Weight | 220g |
Video resolution | 5.2K @30fps, 3K @60fps (both 360) |
Image resolution | 18MP |
Image stabilization | 6 axis stabilization |
Waterproof | Yes down to 5m |
GPS | Yes |
Connectivity | WiFi and Bluetooth |
Smartphone app compatibility | Apple, android |
Memory | Two 32 GB SD cards |
Battery | 1.5 hours, Removable battery |
Livestreaming | No |
Audio | 360 spherical audio |
Other features | OverCapture, Voice control |
Reason To Buy?
- OverCapture mode
- Waterproof
- Rubber body; better grip
- 360-degree videos and images
- Durable
- Top notch image resolution
- Effective image stabilization
Reason To Avoid?
- Editing is complicated
- No livestreaming
4- GoPro HERO 9
Special Features:
- Dual-Screens: It has amazing 2 screens, front display for Vlogging and the second one is for real-time videos.
- Slo-mo: You can shoot 8x Slo-Mo (240 fps + 1080p) aesthetic shots to add to your vlogs.
- Waterproof: Surprising underwater range up to 33 feet.
Overview:
GoPro Hero 9 can easily be classified as one of the best GoPro for vlogging. It is literally a fully loaded camera with features not essential but a bonus for vloggers.
The camera has a front-facing display with truly fantastic colors, making the vlogging experience much more interactive.
Apart from the front-facing color display, GoPro has revamped its physical design in many ways; for instance, they have substantially increased the camera’s size, and ultimately the new camera is heavier than its predecessor. Along with that, they have included a 40% larger battery.
The display is a bonus feature for vloggers as it enables them to preview the shot they’re taking; however, as it only shows the central part of the frame, it is not that accurate and hence won’t be very useful for newbies; but it is excellent for routine vloggers, and even for newbies, you’ll at least know you are in the frame.
A red LED also notifies you and others surrounding you that you’re shooting. The rear touchscreen is more significant than its predecessor but can lag sometimes.
While we are on the topic of design, let me tell you that this device has a much stronger outer shell and has a very firm grip, so it doesn’t feel like it will slip out of your hands if you’re one clumsy guy.
Now coming on to the inner details, it is pretty impressive how GoPro’s Hero 9 can shoot at 4 different focal lengths. Plus, it has an amazing video resolution, being able to capture at a whopping 5K at 30fps, but the best is to go around and shoot in 4K at 60fps for better quality and smooth video.
What makes this camera more appealing is the HyperSmooth 3.0 stabilization that reduces the shakiness by a significant percentage and gives steady footage in all resolutions.
It also has a boost feature that improves stabilization. It can also shoot 360 degrees angles through linear view, and that is another bonus feature for vloggers.
The TimeWarp 3.0 is another exciting feature of this device; it shoots a kind of a speed ramp where the footage is fast, then slow, and then fast again, capturing the essential moments in slo-mo and giving the viewers ample time to go through the content descriptively.
GoPro has introduced a handy feature that gives videos a 30-second buffer so that the final video does not miss any spontaneous moments.
Coming to still images, GoPro Hero 9 can capture photos at 20MP with 2x digital zoom and ISO up to 6400. Conclusively, there are a lot of features in this camera that are must-haves for a vlogger, so you should consider this one while going on a cam hunt.
Specifications:
Dimensions | 2.8*2.2*1.3 inches |
Weight | 158g |
Image resolution | 20MP |
Sensor | CMOS |
Video resolution | Up to 5K @30fps |
Stabilization | HyperSmooth 3.0 |
Display | 2.27” rear touchscreen, 1.4” front-facing display |
Connectivity | WiFi and Bluetooth |
Waterproof | Yes, up to 33m |
Livestreaming | Yes, up to 1080p |
Battery | Rechargeable battery, 1720mAh Lithium-Ion |
Reason To Buy?
- Smooth 5K video resolution
- Front display; easy shooting for solo vloggers
- Better battery life
- Amazing stabilization
- HD Slo-mo at up to 240fps
- Handy and waterproof
Reason To Avoid?
- Touchscreen lags sometimes
5- GoPro HERO 8
Special Features:
- Customization: Vloggers and Youtube Creators can easily customize their HERO8 setup with mods.
- Video & Photo: You can record stunning videos in 4K & capture 12-megapixel photos.
- LiveBurst Mode: With LiveBurst mode, you can capture 1.5 seconds of photos or video before a shot.
Overview:
GoPro Hero 8 is a successor of GoPro Hero 7, one of the most popular cameras for vlogging. There have been some improvements. This camera is also fully packed with exciting features and options for vloggers.
This can easily be considered the go-to camera for vloggers. Why? It can shoot a 4K video at 60fps, which is very smooth and has an excellent 12MP sensor that captures some breathtaking still images that you can add into your vlogs to make it look more interactive.
The noise reduction is just fantastic. There is very little grain in the images, and the videos are steady, clear, and bright, all thanks to the addition of HyperSmooth 2.0 image stabilization tech.
It looks like it’s not much different from its predecessor, having a similar body structure. There is that known display at the front, but GoPro has added a fixed lens beside it.
The lens is protected by scratch and smash-resistant glass, which increases this camera’s durability.
Furthermore, a flipping mount at the base pops out when needed and folds back in like wings.
There are buttons and slots on either side of the camera; on the left is a microSD card slot and battery covered by a waterproof cover, and the right entails a power button with the record button on the top of the camera.
Additionally, since they have fixed the camera lens, this gave them a space to fit a mic below it giving the users a much better audio quality which is very vital for vlogging as your voice must be clear for viewers’ comfort, and it builds their interest in your content even more; if your audio is poor, the audience is less likely to be sitting through the whole thing, and it minimizes the chances of them getting back at your channel as well.
This feature-filled camera is one of the best choices for you if your sole purpose is to shoot vlogs.
Specifications:
Weight | 126g |
Dimensions | 66.3*48.6*28.4 mm |
Image resolution | 12MP |
Video resolution | 4K/60, 2.7K/120, 1080p/240 |
Connectivity | Bluetooth and WiFi |
Time lapse | 1, 2, 5, 10, 30 seconds and 1, 2, 5, and 30 min intervals |
TimeWarp 2.0 | 2x, 5x, 10x, 15x and 30x recording speeds |
Touchscreen | Intuitive 2-inch LCD |
Waterproof | Yes, down to 33 ft. |
GPS | Yes |
Microphones | 3 |
Battery | Removable 1220mAh Lithium-ion |
Voice control | Yes |
Stabilization | HyperSmooth 2.0 with Boost option |
Livestreaming | Yes, through the app |
Other features | Portrait mode, auto orientation |
Reason To Buy?
- Mind-blowing stabilization
- Dynamic time-lapse modes
- Improvised audio quality
- More versatile with extra mods
- Built-in foldable mount
- Outclass video resolution
Reason To Avoid?
- Video transfer through WiFi is sometimes time-consuming
- Lowlight performance not up to the mark
7- GoPro HERO 7
Special Features:
- TimeWarp: Record stabilized time-lapse videos while you are moving & also speed up to 30x to capture longer shots.
- Live streaming: You can easily live stream in 720p Resolution on YouTube & Facebook or Instagram.
- Voice control: You can capture photos and turn on the camera with your voice like “GoPro, take a photo” and “GoPro, turn on.”
- Languages Command: It also has 16 voice commands & Understands different languages: English, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian & Spanish.
Overview:
GoPro Hero 7 was one of the earliest action cameras in GoPro’s lineup and it did not fail to impress its users. To this day, this camera is still considered the best value GoPro action camera used for vlogging.
You get amazing high-resolution video shooting options in numerous resolutions along with a great 12MP sensor that gives you clear and bright still images, perfect to edit into your vlog clips.
There is usually a slight confusion when it comes to Hero 7 because it comes in two variants; Black and White.
The Hero 7 Black is a better option because it gives you the benefit of shooting in 4K at 60 fps however, the white variant shoots at a maximum of 1080p, which isn’t really bad though because vlogging can be shot pretty decently even with a 720p resolution.
This camera was the first one to introduce the HyperSmooth image stabilization that upped the quality of its videos and images by a significant margin.
The users were very impressed by the reduction in the shakiness and the crystal clear stills that it so easily captured. I personally loved using this camera because me being the clumsy person that I am, had high chances of shaky images and videos because my vlogs contained lots and lots of spontaneous action and movements and this camera captured those just perfectly.
Physical features include a similar body design to its predecessor, Hero 6 black with a little display beside its lens at the back that shows the resolution you’re shooting at, the battery health, and the Storage memory.
The main body is tough to the touch and super reliable, its rubbery texture makes the grip better which is important for smaller cameras because they can easily slip out of your hands. Oh, and most importantly, it is waterproof without any housing down to a max of 33 ft. so you can go underwater and shoot classy, aesthetic videos without the need for a separate case.
Along with that, there is a small 2-inch touchscreen that you can use to navigate through the menu and the extensive settings. There is also a voice command option just like its predecessor.
In my opinion, this camera offers a great deal at a relatively small price tag so this is a must-buy if you’re looking for a budget-friendly super action camera.
Specifications:
Dimensions | 62*45*33 mm |
Weight | 116g |
Video resolution | 4K/60fps, 2.7K/120fps, 1440p/120fps and more |
Time-lapse | 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 30, 60 second intervals |
TimeWarp Video | 2x, 5x, 10x, 15x, 30x video |
Image resolution | 12MP |
Waterproof | Yes, down to 10m without case |
Touchscreen | Intuitive 2” LCD |
GPS | Yes |
Voice control | Yes |
Stabilization | HyperSmooth |
Live streaming | Yes |
Other features | Vertical portrait mode |
Reason To Buy?
- Smaller in size, rugged design
- Mind-blowing video resolution
- Smartphone app compatibility
- Waterproof
- Voice command
- Amazing image stabilization
- Great image resolution
Reason To Avoid?
- Battery life isn’t very impressive
- File transfer through WiFi takes time
Frequently Asked Questions
1- What are the best GoPro settings for vlogging?
It really depends on the time you’re shooting at and the location. If you’re shooting in the daytime at an open space, it is preferred to keep the ISO to a minimum i.e. 400. Though if your vlog contains more nighttime shooting, you should increase the ISO.
Experiment a little with your settings and decide what suits best on your scene, there’s no one way to go about it really. But, set the white balance to native so later on, it would be easier to adjust while editing.
Also, lower the sharpness, you can adjust it later on while editing. Same for the color, set it to flat. Keep in mind to keep exposure setting to a moderate, preferred is -0.5, to avoid overexposure.
2- Which GoPro is the best for livestreaming?
It would have to be the GoPro Hero 9 Black; that is because of its whopping 5K video resolution. I mean it is considered one of the best action cameras out there in the market so it won’t be foolish to rank this one as the best live streaming GoPro.
It was actually directed for buyers who mainly stream outdoor activities and it has a front screen that really helps you to frame yourself in the camera and capture great videos.
One more cool thing about this camera is that you can directly stream on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch by using it as a webcam which was not available in its predecessor, Hero 8 black.
3- How long does GoPro battery last?
GoPro has a vast portfolio of mind-blowing products, each with different specs and features. I can’t really pinpoint exactly how long does the battery last however, most of the GoPro cameras have commendable battery lives and can last up to 10 hours on standby but it could change depending on the frequency and type of usage. For example, if you shoot a higher resolution video, the battery might be prone to draining faster and lasting less than 10 hours.
The Hero 9 for example, has a 1720mAh battery that will last up to 2 hours if recorded continuously at 4K resolution. Following are a few expected battery durations of Hero 9 black when fully charged:
- 5K/30fps: 90 minutes
- 4K/60fps: 72 minutes
- 4K/30fps: 112 minutes
and more, but the highest recording time is 112 minutes.
4- How to connect GoPro to your computer?
This is a relatively simple process; just turn off your camera, insert the USB cable into the USB-C port on your camera and then connect the other end of the USB cable to your computer. Turn on the camera and it will automatically enter the USB mode which will be indicated by a similar symbol.
5- How to mount GoPro on your Helmet?
Mounting your camera to your helmet while doing some outdoorsy activities is a common practice and gives a great shot for the viewers to enjoy. It is pretty daunting to mount your GoPro onto a helmet but let me guide you the best way.
You can either use a helmet mount with an adhesive (pre-applied). But if you think that this won’t be reliable as you’re going for some rough sporting, then you can modify a mount to safely place the GoPro onto your helmet but make sure you don’t compromise on the safety of the helmet while modifying it because safety comes first! Make sure you mount the camera at the front of your helmet, away from the light source and closer to eye level to get the best shots.
6- What mistakes to avoid while vlogging with a GoPro?
Many vloggers don’t know how they can harness their GoPro’s powers to get remarkable results. This little guide will help you through it;
- Don’t ever, and I repeat, never use the same angles for your shots. Once you start mixing up your shooting styles and experimenting with new angles and perceptions, you might find better shots and it will definitely improve the overall quality of your vlog.
- Include stories in your vlogs! Adding stories and audios to your vlogs makes them interesting and more interactive and engages more audience.
- Take care of your GoPro! It is common that people often drop these cameras due to their compact size, and they forget that these cameras are fragile and can get damaged by frequent drops or accidents. Make sure you keep your camera safe, perhaps by adding a case to it.
- Always adjust the settings! It is very important that whenever you switch a scene, you review your settings and adjust them accordingly to avoid low-quality products at the end of the day.
Conclusion:
After all my research and everything that I wrote for you guys above, I think I have made it easier for you to choose the right camera that fits your purpose and your pocket.
GoPro Hero 10 Black being my recommended product, it is important that you keep in mind that it’s not the only good product; all others are equally amazing but if your pocket allows and your work requires it, you should definitely go for GoPro Hero 10 Black as it extensively covers all fantastic features in a really small package. I hope this helps you in making the right decision!
