Top 5 Best GoPro Cameras & Accessories

(GoPro)

Intrigued by all the buzz GoPro has gotten lately? We’ve got a buyer’s guide with our favorite GoPro cameras and accessories.

1. GoPro HERO3+: Black Edition

(GoPro)

There have been many GoPro models over the years, but the GoPro HERO 3+ is definitely the top dog. True, it is a big of a splurge, but that extra dough buys you an extra-reliable camera. Even if you’re scrapped for cash, this model is worth saving up for. The GoPro HERO3+ offers a lighter housing, improved image sharpness, better battery life, and faster built-in Wi-Fi.

Buy it here.

Pros:

Great battery life

Lightweight design makes it a joy to lug around

Enhanced connectivity to the Wi-Fi Remote (included) and GoPro App

Arguably the most trusted name in outdoor photography

Automatically works better in low-light conditions

Cons:

Expensive

Nice image quality, but may not be up to some exacting standards

microSD card sold separately

Depending on your settings, you can only expect one or two hours of recording time

Content playback, sharing and access to the camera’s memory card is not available on Windows Phone

2. GoPro Floaty Backdoor

(GoPro)

If you plan to use your GoPro while surfing, swimming, diving, or sailing, you need some sort of floatation device to keep your GoPro from sinking to the murky bottom. Not only does this floaty backdoor provide flotation, but it also makes the GoPro a lot easier to spot in churning water. For GoPro users that get anywhere close to a body of water, this is kind of a must-have accessory.

If you don’t go near the water, you might prefer the LCD Touch BacPac.

Buy it here.

Pros:

Provides flotation

Bright color is easy to spot

Compatible with all HERO3 and HERO3+ cameras

Comes with two anchors and two tethers

So inexpensive, it’s almost stupid not to buy it

Cons:

May require additional mounting, particularly for those who are surfing

Lens points straight down when floating

Case alignment can be tricky

Foam won’t work as a “lift-float” for when you lose the camera underwater

Orange is an awesome color, but neon yellow, red, or green would also be nice options

3. POV Case 3.0 Small GoPro-edition Black

(SP Gadgets)

This handy case from SP Gadgets lets you keep your GoPro safely tucked away, alongside all of your various accessories and peripherals. The case holds your camera, battery, up to two BacPacs, SD memory card, housing doors, and cables. If you need a rugged case to hold all your gear, this is a pretty decent option.

Buy it here.

Pros:

Supports HD Hero 1,2 3, and 3+

Designed to hold camera and accessories securely in various cutouts and pockets

Inexpensive

Decent impact protection

Portable

Cons:

Small case, not ideal for people with a huge array of bulky accessories

Case won’t fit suction cup mount accessory

Only comes in black

Self-customization of the case with a penknife is possible, but cumbersome

Price difference between the large and small is high, makes it hard to choose which case is right

4. GoPro Head Strap Camera Mount

(GoPro)

If you need to go hands-free, this head mount for the GoPro is great for running, cycling, parkour, and other outdoor pursuits where you need full use of your hands. One of the best features of this one-size-fits-all mount is that you can wear it directly on your head, or wrapped around a bulky helmet.

Buy it here.

Pros:

Compatible with all HERO3, HERO2, and HD HERO cameras

Fits around your head, or around a helmet

Also works for underwater dives

Sturdy materials

Made by GoPro

Cons:

Manufacturer does not recommend for use during high-impact sports

Newer model, while more expensive, has added benefit of Quick Clip

Can only be shipped within the US

Straps can be uncomfortable over long periods of usage

Too much movement with your head will impact image quality

5. GoPro Frame Mount for HERO3 and HERO3+ Cameras

(GoPro)

This handy frame mount comes with a standard frame, BacPac frame, lens cover, flat adhesive mount, curved adhesive mount, and some assorted mounting hardware. If you’re looking for something with a lot of functionality, this is a GoPro accessory worth investing in. Best of all, it is rather inexpensive.

Buy it here.

Pros:

Compatible with all new BacPacs

Should work with all GoPro accessories

Won’t break the bank

Battery door is also accessible without having to remove the camera from the case

Works with car chargers

Cons:

Only for HERO 3 and 3+ cameras

Not waterproof

Only has a one-year warranty

Not the most protective option

Best used for on-land, limited impact photography pursuits

Don’t forget to grab a selfie stick! There are lots of great options out there that are compatible with the GoPro, including some that have backup batteries built right in.

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