Best GoPro (2025): Compact, budget, and accessories

Compare the top 5 GoPro Hero cameras

GoPros to avoid

GoPro doesn’t sell anything older than the Hero 12, but there are plenty of Hero 11s and even Hero 10s for sale online. We suggest avoiding them. They may work fine, but newer accessories designed for later models will not, and these cameras will likely have been tested. (They are action cameras, after all.)

Best GoPro Accessories

Courtesy of GoPro

Should you buy a package? Overall I say no get a camera, figure it out, and see how you end up using it. When you find yourself trying to solve a problem, start looking for an extension. Here are some of my favorites that I’ve tested and used, but if you have favorites that you think I should try, drop a comment below.

A microSD card is good for $50: According to GoPro’s recommendations, you want a microSD card with a rating of V30 or UHS-3. However, GoPros can be finicky about SD cards. I’ve had good luck with the Samsung linked here and recommend it. Another card I’ve used extensively is the Sandisk Extreme Pro.

GoPro Media Mod for $80: By far my most used media accessory, it adds some bulk, but in most cases this is made up for by the fact that you can connect a real microphone (I use mine with the Rode Wireless). The sound quality is radically improved with this. This may be less important if you get a Hero 12 or later, since these models support Bluetooth microphones.

GoPro handlebar mount for $40: I’ve been riding a lot lately, and this mountain pretty much lives on my bike these days. It was extremely powerful in my tests, outperforming any of the third-party installers I’ve tested.

GoPro Tripod Mount Adapters for $30: Unless you have a Hero 12 or 13, which have a built-in tripod, you’ll need a few of them to mount your GoPro on a tripod like the GorillaPod.

GoPro Floaty for $35: If you’re going anywhere near water, get one of these. Trust me, you will give up your GoPro, and when you do, you’ll be glad you have that camera (unless the water is clear and you’re a good freediver). GoPro also manufactures Floating Hand Grip ($23), Not only does it float, but it also has a leash for diving or surfing.

GoPro selfie stick for $80: This 48-inch extension pole collapses surprisingly small and isn’t too heavy. It’s the best selfie stick I’ve used. I rarely use it for selfies, but it makes a great monopod on soft ground, like a sandy beach.

DaVinci Resolve Studio for $300: This is my favorite video editing software. There is a free version, but I got tired of converting media to fit the free version’s limitations. The best money you’ve ever spent when it comes to creating better videos.