The best GoPro action cameras, tested by a professional creator

Recommended Tech The best GoPro action cameras, tested by a professional creator I’ve been testing and using GoPro action cameras for over five years – these are the best models for your next adventure Save Comment speech bubble icon Gift this article free Gift article Give full access to this article, free time. You have 15 articles left to gift, this month. Log in or Subscribe Copy link X Icon twitter Facebook Icon facebook WhatsApp Icon whatsapp email Add us as preferred source Share article Log in or Subscribe Copy link X Icon twitter Facebook Icon facebook WhatsApp Icon whatsapp email Christian Hopewell Published 19 May 2026 11:45am BST Related Topics Sony, GoPro, Cameras Save Comment speech bubble icon Share article Log in or Subscribe Copy link X Icon twitter Facebook Icon facebook WhatsApp Icon whatsapp email Gift this article free Gift article Give full access to this article, free time. You have 15 articles left to gift, this month. Log in or Subscribe Copy link X Icon twitter Facebook Icon facebook WhatsApp Icon whatsapp email Add us as preferred source Christian Hopewell Published 19 May 2026 11:45am BST GoPro action cameras have evolved from enthusiast tools for extreme sports, to essential pieces of kit for on-the-go content creators, vloggers, and adventurers of all stripes. Small but mighty, the best GoPro cameras are capable of capturing smooth, cinematic video clips and vibrant, wide-angle photos. With shock-proof shells, natively waterproof housings, and a vast range of dedicated mounts and accessories, you can be confident the camera can handle any activity you’re likely to encounter. After a decade working as a professional creator, with more than five years dedicated to testing out the latest camera technology, I’ve seen exactly what separates the best from the rest. This guide is designed to cut through the jargon with answers to common FAQs, walk you through GoPro’s latest lineup in my reviews, and help you find the perfect camera for your next adventure. The best GoPro action cameras: At a glanceBest Buy GoPro action camera: GoPro Hero 13 BlackBest Value GoPro action camera: GoPro Hero 12 BlackBest GoPro action camera for beginners: GoPro Hero (2024)Best 360 GoPro action camera: GoPro Max 2Best GoPro action camera alternative: Insta360 Ace Pro 2JUMP TO REVIEWS How to choose the best GoPro action cameraGoPro’s current lineup spans the latest flagship Hero 13 Black, through to the budget-friendly GoPro Hero (2024). The previous-generation flagship, the Hero 12 Black, now sits in the middle of GoPro’s Hero lineup, while the Max 2 is the firm’s latest dual-lens, 360-degree offering. Shop around, and you can still find deals on older Hero 11 Black units, but GoPro has now retired this option from its official roster. GoPro’s higher-end Hero Black models offer the most impressive image quality, with high bit-rate, high frame-rate video recording at up to 5K60. The Hero Black models are also where you’ll find GoPro’s most effective HyperSmooth video stabilisation tech and the greatest degree of camera control. Be mindful, however, that higher-resolution and higher-frame rate footage can be storage-intensive and can demand a powerful computer for efficient video editing. For casual sharing on social media, standard 4K and high-quality 1080p footage generally suffices and is easier to store, edit, and upload. All of GoPro’s current-generation action cameras offer native waterproofing, smartphone app control, and USB-C battery charging. You’ll also find the same accessory “mounting fingers” throughout GoPro’s entire range, enabling you to pair your camera with an expansive range of mounts, harnesses, and selfie sticks. How we test GoPro action cameras Christian has been testing action cameras for five years Every action camera we recommend has been rigorously tested in real-world scenarios, from vlogging, travel, and traversing the urban sprawl, to demanding all-weather adventures. Our comprehensive evaluation process uses five core testing metrics to determine a camera’s performance and value: Design, durability, and usability: We assess the build quality, in-hand feel, waterproofing, and overall ease of use in action.Key features and technology: We test headline features like video stabilisation, mounts and accessory compatibility, and innovative shooting modes.Software and connectivity: We evaluate the usability of any companion desktop or mobile apps and the reliability of the Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.Image and video quality: Image resolution, frame rate options, dynamic range, colour science, and overall photo and video performance are evaluated under varying lighting conditions.Battery performance: We conduct repeatable tests to evaluate the camera’s battery performance and heat management.Why you can trust Telegraph RecommendedOur tech experts continuously conduct in-depth, independent, real-world tests, scoring devices against pre-set testing metrics and industry benchmarks, so we can deliver definitive and comprehensive buying advice. Telegraph Recommended reviews are never shared with product manufacturers before publication, we don’t accept payment in exchange for positive reviews, nor do we allow brands to pay for placement in our articles. Visit our Who We Are page to learn more. The best GoPro action cameras of 2025 1. Best Buy GoPro: GoPro Hero 13 Black Score: 8/10 We like: New HB-Series Lens Mods compatibility, intuitive controls, upgraded Enduro battery We dislike: Near-identical specs to the previous model, mediocre low-light performance, accessories can be pricey From£279.99Buy nowPrice atGoPro Launched in late 2024, the Hero 13 Black isn’t a radical departure from its predecessor, but it offers some significant quality-of-life upgrades that secure its spot at the top of the action-camera heap. GoPro has finally added a magnetic latch mount and universal tripod thread to the body, making it easier than ever to pair the camera with GoPro and third-party accessories. Additionally, the Hero 13 Black is compatible with a new line of HB-Series Lens Mods, which the camera automatically detects and adjusts settings for. These include Macro and Ultra Wide options, though each needs to be purchased separately. As for core performance, it retains the powerful GP2 processor and the versatile 8:7 image sensor of its predecessor. This enables the Hero 13 to offer crisp 5K video at up to 60fps, along with cinematically smooth HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilisation. The camera’s upgraded, larger 1,900mAh Enduro batteries, along with improved thermal management, also allow the camera to be run harder for longer. While GoPro’s low-light performance remains an area where the Hero series lags slightly behind some rivals, the Hero 13 Black is, without question, the most complete and creatively flexible single-lens adventure camera GoPro has ever produced. Read my full GoPro Hero 13 review. Key specifications Video resolution: 5.3K60 / 4K120 / 2.7K240Image resolution: 27-megapixelsStabilisation: HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilisation with 360-degree Horizon LockSensor: 1/1.9-inch sensor with 8:7 native aspect ratioWaterproof rating: Waterproof to 10mNew features: HB-Series Lens Mod compatibility, threaded tripod mount, 1,900mAh Enduro battery, and return of GPS support2. Best Value GoPro: GoPro Hero 12 Black Score: 7/10 We like: Excellent video quality for the price, improved battery and thermal performance, Bluetooth wireless recording for external mics We dislike: No built-in GPS, mediocre low-light performance, lacks the Lens Mod compatibility of the Hero 13 From£249.99Buy nowPrice atGoPro The GoPro Hero 12 Black offers the best balance of price and performance across the Hero lineup. Like the flagship Hero 13, it boasts high-resolution 5K60 video, a versatile 8:7 aspect ratio sensor, and GoPro’s market-leading HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilisation. The generational differences are mostly minor. The Hero 12 lacks the Hero 13’s new threaded tripod mount, magnetic latch, and compatibility with the HB-Series Lens Mods. Most notably, it skipped the GPS feature that both its predecessor and successor included – a bit of a head-scratcher. That said, it uses the older, slightly smaller batteries used since the Hero 9, which is a benefit if you’re upgrading and already own a drawer full of spares. Side by side, the differences between the GoPro Hero 12 and 13 are minor Crucially, the Hero 12 brought serious improvements over the Hero 11, specifically, vastly superior thermal and battery performance for longer, more reliable continuous shooting. It was also the first Hero to natively support Bluetooth audio, although the recording quality over Bluetooth is somewhat limited. If you don’t need the latest Mods or GPS, the Hero 12 Black provides stellar video quality and reliable performance without requiring you to stretch your budget too much. It remains a fantastic choice for professional and enthusiast content creators alike. Key specifications Video resolution: 5.3K60 / 4K120 / 2.7K240Image resolution: 27-megapixelsStabilisation: HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilisation with 360-degree Horizon LockSensor: 1/1.9-inch sensor with 8:7 native aspect ratioWaterproof rating: Waterproof to 10m3. Best GoPro for beginners: GoPro Hero (2024) Score: 7/10 We like: Ultra-compact design, wide field of view, competitive battery performance We dislike: Limited recording options, smartphone app reliance, average image quality From£169.99Buy nowPrice atGoPro Small but mighty, the GoPro Hero (2024) serves as GoPro’s latest dedicated entry-level action cam. Designed for simplicity and portability, it strips away some of the pro-level features to hit a highly accessible price point. Its reduced size and price result in a few notable compromises: video recording tops out at 4K30, and it lacks the advanced HyperSmooth stabilisation offered in GoPro’s more premium cameras. Instead, stabilisation is applied after recording by importing your footage into the Quik smartphone app. While the Hero’s battery is non-removable, meaning you can’t quickly sub in a spare, it performed admirably in my tests, and it can be easily topped up using a power bank. While enthusiasts may find some of the camera’s compromises too limiting, commuters recording their bike rides and parents capturing poolside moments will find the GoPro Hero is a solid entry point into the ecosystem. Its durable build, simplicity, and 4K video recording make it a budget-friendly option for those who prioritise ease-of-use over granular professional control. Read my full GoPro Hero review. Key specifications Video resolution: 4K30 / 2.7K60Image resolution: 12-megapixelsStabilisation: HyperSmooth stabilisation (applied in Quik app)Sensor: 1/2.8-inch sensor with 4:3 native aspect ratioWaterproof rating: Waterproof to 5m4. Best 360 GoPro: GoPro Max 2 Score: 7/10 We like: Detailed 8K 360 video, user-replaceable lenses, fantastic stabilisation We dislike: Low-light still a weak spot, single lens limited to 4K60, potential to overheat From£349.99Buy nowPrice atGoPro The GoPro Max 2 replaces GoPro’s now rather long-in-the-tooth original Max camera from 2019, and the six-year gap has led to a flurry of improvements. It ditches the aging 5.6K standard of its predecessor for a max resolution of 8K 360-degree video at 30fps, providing a substantial resolution bump needed to create genuinely sharp, reframed 4K videos, which is a massive upgrade for content creators. This new power also introduces professional features like 10-bit colour and GP-Log, offering greater control over colour and contrast in post-production. Another crucial physical upgrade is the new, easily user-replaceable lens system. The bulbous lenses are the most vulnerable part of any 360 camera, and the ability to swap a scratched lens without having to send your camera out for repair significantly improves durability. It retains the signature features that made the original great, including six integrated microphones for immersive spatial audio, the unbeatable Max HyperSmooth stabilisation, and the invisible selfie-stick effect. Like all 360 cameras, the Max 2’s files need a little extra work to process, requiring you to get familiar with GoPro’s Quik app. For those looking to create unique, stand-out videos and photos, however, the Max 2 offers incredible creative possibilities. Key specifications Video resolution: 8K30 (360) / 4K60 (Single Lens Mode)Image resolution: 29-megapixels (360) / 12-megapixels (Single Lens)Stabilisation: Max HyperSmooth stabilisation with 360-degree Horizon LockSensor: 1/2.3-inch dual sensor, User-replaceable lensesWaterproof rating: Waterproof to 5m5. Best GoPro alternative: Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Score: 7/10 We like: 8K video recording, respectable low-light performance, flip-up display We dislike: Bulkier than GoPro Hero 13 Black, stabilisation not quite a match for HyperSmooth, less extensive accessory ecosystem From£389.99Buy nowPrice atAmazon While GoPro is undeniably the most recognisable action camera brand, it’s far from the only option on the market. The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 offers a compelling alternative that surpasses GoPro in several areas, most notably its ability to capture stunning 8K video at 30fps. The Ace Pro 2 features a significantly larger 1/1.3-inch sensor and optics co-engineered with Leica, allowing it to capture more light and deliver a noticeable improvement in low-light and tricky mixed-light situations. This, combined with its dedicated PureVideo mode, gives the Ace Pro 2 the edge over the Hero Black series when the sun goes down. It also features a useful, vlogger-friendly flippable touchscreen and a robust magnetic quick-release mounting system. Insta360’s accessory ecosystem may not be quite as extensive as GoPro’s. However, for content creators and cinematographers who prioritise absolute image quality and low-light capability, the Ace Pro 2 arguably sets a new benchmark. Key specifications Video resolution: 8K30 / 4K120Image resolution: 48-megapixelsStabilisation: FlowState stabilisation with 360-degree Horizon LockSensor:1/1.3-inch sensorWaterproof rating: Waterproof to 12mGoPro action cameras FAQs Why use a GoPro instead of a phone? GoPro’s dedicated action cameras are built to endure extreme use with rugged shells and native water resistance without the need for a separate case. This enables GoPros to excel in environments where you wouldn’t want to risk damaging your more fragile mobile device. Are there any drawbacks to using a GoPro? The main drawbacks include generally mediocre low-light performance compared to larger-sensor cameras. Additionally, it’s another dedicated device to carry, charge, and manage. Working with high-resolution 4K/5.3K files can also require considerable time video editing and a powerful computer. How long does a GoPro battery last? Battery performance varies from model to model and will depend on the selected recording settings. Based on my testing, you can expect around 70 minutes of 5K video recording using one of GoPro’s Hero Black cameras or around two hours of 4K video recording. What is the latest GoPro? Released in September 2025, the 360-degree GoPro Max 2 is the firm’s latest action camera release. The latest single-lens action camera remains the GoPro Hero 13 Black, released in late 2024, alongside the entry-level GoPro Hero (2024). Which GoPro is best for beginners? The GoPro Hero (2024) is the best choice for beginners. It’s the most affordable camera in GoPro’s current lineup and offers a simplified, beginner-friendly interface. If budget allows, however, the former flagship GoPro Hero 12 Black offers a better set of features, like superior stabilisation and 5.3K video, which beginners will learn to love. Join the conversation Show comments The Telegraph values your comments but kindly requests all posts are on topic, constructive and respectful. Please review our commenting policy. Copy link X Icon twitter Facebook Icon facebook WhatsApp Icon whatsapp email The Telegraph values your comments but kindly requests all posts are on topic, constructive and respectful. 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