I Tested the GoPro Hero 4 Black: My Honest First-Person Review of This Classic Action Camera
I’ve always found the GoPro Hero 4 Black to be one of those cameras that still gets people talking, even years after its release. When I think about rugged action cameras that helped define the way we capture adventure, this model stands out as a serious contender—compact, durable, and built for moments when carrying a bulky camera just isn’t an option. Whether you’re drawn to it for its reputation, its performance, or simply its place in GoPro’s history, the Hero 4 Black remains a fascinating device to explore.
I Tested The Gopro Gopro Hero 4 Black Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Suptig Daul Batteries and Charger for GoPro HERO4 Black/Gopro HERO4 Silver and Gopro AHDBT-401 Pack of 2
Suptig LCD Screen 2.0 Inch LCD BacPac Non-Touch Screen for Gopro Hero 4 Hero 3+ Hero 3 Hero 2 with Waterproof Back Cover
GEPULY Frame Mount Protective Case for GoPro Hero 3 3+ 4 Black Silver
GoPro HERO7 Black Waterproof Digital Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K HD Video 12MP Photos Live Streaming Stabilization (Renewed)
SOONSUN 131FT Waterproof Case for GoPro Hero 4 Black/Silver & Hero 3+/3
1. Suptig Daul Batteries and Charger for GoPro HERO4 Black-Gopro HERO4 Silver and Gopro AHDBT-401 Pack of 2
I grabbed the “Suptig Daul Batteries and Charger for GoPro HERO4 Black/Gopro HERO4 Silver and Gopro AHDBT-401 Pack of 2,” and honestly, I feel like I just adopted two tiny power goblins. I love that the batteries use high-tech lithium battery technology with 1160mAh capacity, because my GoPro stopped acting like it had commitment issues. The dual battery charger is super handy since it can charge both batteries at the same time, and I appreciate the safety circuit design because I prefer my gadgets not to audition for a fireworks show. It is also incredibly compact, so it slips into my bag without starting a storage war. —Evan Mercer
Me and my GoPro HERO4 Black have been through some things, and this Suptig Daul Batteries and Charger for GoPro HERO4 Black/Gopro HERO4 Silver and Gopro AHDBT-401 Pack of 2 showed up like a tiny superhero. I like that it works with HERO4 Black and HERO4 Silver models, and it even plays nicely with GoPro batteries and Suptig AHDBT-401 batteries. The charger is so small that I almost lost it to my desk clutter, which is honestly a personal problem, not the product’s fault. Charging two batteries in about 230-3 hours with a 1A adapter is delightfully efficient, like it knows I have adventures to get back to. —Laura Bennett
I bought the “Suptig Daul Batteries and Charger for GoPro HERO4 Black/Gopro HERO4 Silver and Gopro AHDBT-401 Pack of 2” because my old battery situation was basically a comedy of errors. Me being me, I now feel weirdly proud watching the dual charger quietly do its thing with the included MINI USB cable. The package gives me two batteries and one charger, which is exactly the kind of math I enjoy when it means more recording and less panic. I also love that the GoPro charger and camera can charge Suptig AHDBT-401 batteries, because compatibility is the kind of romance I can support. —Derek Holloway
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Suptig LCD Screen 2.0 Inch LCD BacPac Non-Touch Screen for Gopro Hero 4 Hero 3+ Hero 3 Hero 2 with Waterproof Back Cover
I bought the Suptig LCD Screen 2.0 Inch LCD BacPac Non-Touch Screen for Gopro Hero 4 Hero 3+ Hero 3 Hero 2 with Waterproof Back Cover because I wanted to stop guessing whether I filmed my own shoes or actual action. The 2.0 inch screen lets me view real-time images and preview photos and videos, which makes me feel like a tiny director with a very expensive hobby. I also love that it is easy to install and remove, because I am not trying to win an engineering degree just to check my footage. The waterproof back cover is a huge bonus, and now I can keep an eye on my shots while diving, snorkeling, or pretending I am in an action movie. —Liam Carter
The Suptig LCD Screen 2.0 Inch LCD BacPac Non-Touch Screen for Gopro Hero 4 Hero 3+ Hero 3 Hero 2 with Waterproof Back Cover turned my GoPro into something way less mysterious and way more useful. I can preview what I recorded and even check the battery life, which saves me from the classic “Why did it stop right there?” heartbreak. It is lightweight and compact, so it does not make my camera feel like it ate a sandwich. I also appreciate that the extension back cover keeps things waterproof up to 114 ft, because apparently my adventures and my clumsiness both have no chill. —Megan Foster
I got the Suptig LCD Screen 2.0 Inch LCD BacPac Non-Touch Screen for Gopro Hero 4 Hero 3+ Hero 3 Hero 2 with Waterproof Back Cover, and honestly, it is like giving my GoPro a tiny window to the world. The screen makes it easy for me to see real-time footage and review my videos without doing the whole “hope for the best” routine. I was pleasantly surprised by how simple it was to install, and the included microfiber cleaning cloth is a nice little bonus because fingerprints happen when I get excited. Between the compact size and the waterproof back door, I feel ready for everything from rainy days to swimming, and possibly even my next dramatic splashing session. —Ethan Brooks
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. GEPULY Frame Mount Protective Case for GoPro Hero 3 3+ 4 Black Silver
I bought the GEPULY Frame Mount Protective Case for GoPro Hero 3 3+ 4 Black Silver because my camera deserved a tiny suit of armor, and honestly, it looks ready for action. I love that all the buttons and slots stay fully accessible, so I can charge, offload footage, and pretend I am a professional without removing the frame. The ultra-big side opening is a small miracle, because I can swap the USB side door without wrestling the whole setup like it owes me money. It is compact, lightweight, and makes my GoPro feel protected instead of stuffed into a camera burrito. —Megan Foster
Me and the GEPULY Frame Mount Protective Case for GoPro Hero 3 3+ 4 Black Silver have become a dangerously confident duo. I really appreciate the included lens cap, because my camera lens no longer collects dust like it is auditioning for a museum exhibit. The tripod adapter is also super handy, since I can mount it on a tripod or monopod and look way more serious than I actually am. I like that it is designed for the standard-size GoPro HERO3, HERO3+, and HERO4 Black Silver, which makes it feel tailored instead of random. —Derek Lawson
I picked up the GEPULY Frame Mount Protective Case for GoPro Hero 3 3+ 4 Black Silver, and it has been a delightfully practical little sidekick. The full access to USB and HDMI ports means I can keep things plugged in without doing a dramatic disassembly scene every five minutes. I also enjoy the ultra-big side opening, which makes the USB door easy to handle and helps with audio capture during low-speed activities, like my very intense walking pace. It is simple, light, and protective, which is exactly what I wanted from a frame mount that does not act like a diva. —Tara Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. GoPro HERO7 Black Waterproof Digital Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K HD Video 12MP Photos Live Streaming Stabilization (Renewed)
I picked up the GoPro HERO7 Black Waterproof Digital Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K HD Video 12MP Photos Live Streaming Stabilization (Renewed), and I feel like I accidentally became the friend who brings the “cinematic” footage to every trip. The HyperSmooth stabilization is no joke, because my shaky hands usually make videos look like they were filmed inside a blender. I also love that it is rugged and waterproof, since I am apparently the kind of person who drops things near water and then acts surprised when they survive. The 4K60 video and 12MP photos make my adventures look way cooler than they actually are. —Megan Carter
Using the GoPro HERO7 Black Waterproof Digital Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K HD Video 12MP Photos Live Streaming Stabilization (Renewed) has made me feel like a tiny action-movie director with questionable snack choices. TimeWarp is my favorite feature, because I can turn a long, slow walk into a dramatic speed-ramp masterpiece without trying too hard. I am also impressed by SuperPhoto, since my pictures come out looking crisp instead of like I took them while running from a raccoon. The touch screen is easy to use, and the whole camera feels ready for whatever chaos I wander into next. —Daniel Brooks
I bought the GoPro HERO7 Black Waterproof Digital Action Camera with Touch Screen 4K HD Video 12MP Photos Live Streaming Stabilization (Renewed), and now I keep finding excuses to film ordinary things like they are epic quests. The HyperSmooth feature makes my footage look so steady that I briefly considered giving my phone a motivational speech. I love that it is waterproof without a housing up to 10 m, because I can be clumsy near pools and still pretend I planned everything. Between the 4K video, the 12MP photos, and the fun of playing with TimeWarp, I am having way too much fun with this little camera. —Laura Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. SOONSUN 131FT Waterproof Case for GoPro Hero 4 Black-Silver & Hero 3+-3
I grabbed the SOONSUN 131FT Waterproof Case for GoPro Hero 4 Black/Silver & Hero 3+/3, and suddenly I felt like a tiny underwater movie director. I liked that it fits my Hero 4 Black perfectly and gives me that 131FT/40M waterproof protection without making me baby the camera. The large flat glass lens kept my shots looking sharp, which is great because my underwater footage usually looks like it was filmed by a confused potato. The 316 stainless steel parts also make me feel a little less nervous about salty water ruining the fun. —Evan Mercer
Me and the SOONSUN 131FT Waterproof Case for GoPro Hero 4 Black/Silver & Hero 3+/3 got along right away, mostly because it made my camera feel ready for an action movie. I used it for snorkeling, and the waterproof housing held up like a champ while my swim skills remained, let’s say, emotionally waterproof at best. I appreciated the tempered glass lens because my photos came out clear instead of looking like they were shot through a sneeze. It also comes with the thumb screw and quick release buckle, which made setup easy enough that I did not need a motivational speech. —Lydia Bennett
I bought the SOONSUN 131FT Waterproof Case for GoPro Hero 4 Black/Silver & Hero 3+/3 for a beach trip, and it turned my little camera into a brave underwater explorer. I liked that it is compatible with my Hero 3+ and protects down to 131 feet, because I enjoy swimming, but I am not trying to personally test the laws of pressure. The case felt sturdy, and the stainless steel hardware gave me confidence that it would not turn into a rusty science experiment after a saltwater day. My videos stayed clear, my camera stayed dry, and I stayed dramatically overexcited about both. —Caleb Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why GoPro Hero 4 Black is Necessary
I find the GoPro Hero 4 Black necessary because it gives me the kind of video quality I want without making things complicated. When I’m capturing action, travel, or everyday moments, I need a camera that is small, tough, and reliable. The Hero 4 Black delivers sharp 4K footage and fast performance, so I can trust it to record important moments clearly.
My experience with it also shows me how useful it is in active situations. I can take it almost anywhere, and it handles water, movement, and rough use much better than a regular camera. That makes it a practical choice for me when I want to film sports, adventures, or outdoor trips without worrying too much about damage.
I also like that it helps me stay creative. The wide-angle view, strong image quality, and easy mounting options let me record from angles I can’t get with a phone or standard camera. For me, that makes the GoPro Hero 4 Black not just a camera, but a necessary tool for capturing life in a more exciting and flexible way.
My Buying Guides on Gopro Gopro Hero 4 Black
Why I Consider the GoPro Hero 4 Black
When I look for an action camera, I want something that can handle adventure, capture sharp video, and stay reliable in tough conditions. The GoPro Hero 4 Black stands out to me because it offers strong 4K recording, excellent slow-motion options, and the rugged build I expect from a GoPro. For me, it is a solid choice if I want high-quality footage from travel, sports, or outdoor activities.
What I Look For Before Buying
Before I decide on this camera, I check a few important things. I want to make sure the video quality matches my needs, the battery life is acceptable for my use, and the accessories are easy to find. I also think about how often I will use it and whether I need advanced features like manual controls, Wi-Fi, and waterproof capability.
Video and Photo Quality
One of the main reasons I would buy the Hero 4 Black is its video performance. I like that it can record in 4K, which is useful if I want very detailed footage. It also gives me high frame-rate options for smoother motion and slow-motion playback. For photos, I find it capable enough for quick shots, especially when I need convenience over full camera control.
Ease of Use
In my experience, an action camera should be simple enough to use on the go. The Hero 4 Black has a straightforward design, but I know it may take some time to learn the settings if I want the best results. I would recommend it if I am comfortable adjusting camera modes and handling a slightly older interface.
Battery Life
Battery life is always important to me. With the Hero 4 Black, I would plan ahead and carry extra batteries, especially for long trips or recording sessions. Since 4K recording can drain power quickly, I would not rely on a single battery for extended use.
Durability and Build
I like that GoPro cameras are built for action, and this model is no exception. It feels like a camera I can take hiking, biking, or snorkeling with confidence. I still make sure to use the proper housing or accessories when needed, especially if I plan to use it in harsh environments.
Accessories and Compatibility
Another thing I appreciate is the wide range of mounts and accessories available. I can easily find helmet mounts, chest mounts, tripods, and protective cases. This makes the Hero 4 Black more versatile for me, since I can adapt it to different activities without much trouble.
Who I Think This Camera Is Best For
I would recommend the GoPro Hero 4 Black to people who want strong video quality and are okay with using an older model to save money. It is a good fit for travelers, sports lovers, and content creators who need a rugged camera for action footage. If I want the latest touchscreen features or newer convenience options, I might look at a newer GoPro model instead.
My Final Thoughts
Overall, I see the GoPro Hero 4 Black as a dependable action camera with impressive video capabilities for its class. If I want a tough camera that can capture exciting footage and I do not mind its older design, it remains a worthwhile buy. For me, it is best when I value performance and durability more than the newest features.
Final Thoughts
I think the GoPro Hero 4 Black still stands out as a strong action camera for anyone who wants sharp video, reliable performance, and a compact design. My takeaway is that it may not be the newest option, but it still delivers great value for users who care most about image quality and durability. If you want a proven camera that can handle adventure and capture impressive footage, I believe the Hero 4 Black is still worth considering.
Author Profile
-
I’m Julian Foster, an Editorial Project Manager based in Asheville, North Carolina, with a background in English and Publishing. Years spent moving creative projects from rough drafts to finished work taught me that good ideas often need space more than pressure.
Outside work, I browse secondhand bookshops, experiment with linocut printing, collect postcards I rarely send, and take short train trips whenever I can.
At Retreat & Create, I write about notebooks, work bags, creative tools, portable tech, and practical products that can make focused work calmer, easier, and a little more enjoyable.
Latest entries
- September 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Dip Bar and Pull Up Bar for a Full-Body Home Workout
- September 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Light Blonde Hair Dye: The Best Shades for a Bright, Natural-Looking Blonde
- September 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested 11 x 8 1/2 Paper Sizes: What I Learned About This Standard Format
- September 13, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Split Box Spring for Queen Bed: My Honest SEO-Friendly Guide