So, you’re asking yourself “should I buy a GoPro HERO 5?” Well, you’ve come to the right place!
Those who want to take awesome, high-octane videos, will love the GoPro HERO5, which is still one of the best small cameras for travel videography!
With the rugged and (nearly) waterproof GoPro HERO5, filmmakers can get those super close-up shots and be right in the middle of the action.
Because of its ultra wide angle lens, the GoPro HERO5 is also a solid choice for when you want to photograph those epic landscapes or very intimate interiors.
Though it’s a few years old and currently supplanted by the newer HERO6, the GoPro HERO5 is still very useful and one of the best GoPros for travel.
So, let’s get down to business and crack on with this GoPro HERO 5 black review.
Rating 4/5
In case you’re in a rush – we have give the GoPro HERO5 a solid 4/5 stars – nothing is ever perfect right?
So, in this GoPro HERO 5 review, we’ll be covering all different aspects of this awesome little camera including looking at the GoPro HERO 5 lens specs, where it excels and where it falls down.
Best Waterproof Travel Camera – GoPro HERO5
The GoPro HERO5 is for you if you…
- Need a rugged camera that can be beaten up.
- Like to film action-packed moments.
- Want a user-friendly experience
The GoPro HERO5 isn’t for you if you…
- Want to capture more than just close-ups or the occasional landscape.
- Want a camera that is responsive and glitch-free.
- Need long lasting batteries.
If the HERO5 doesn’t sound right for you, check out the OCLU Action Camera which is a very competent budget alternative.
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Join REI Today!Why the GoPro HERO5 is One of the Best
GoPro was arguably the first action camera to really be popularized. People saw the amazing travel videos that GoPros produced and wanted one for themselves. Utilizing the GoPro’s tiny size and a wide selection of clever GoPro mounts, videographers have achieved some truly crazy perspectives. To this day, some of the most thrilling footage ever recorded is thanks to the GoPro.
The GoPro HERO5 was – and still is – one of the best action cameras available. Combining GoPro’s usual rugged ergonomics with advanced features like touchscreen, voice activation, and 4k recording really took the HERO5 to the next level.
Image & video quality has never been better in a GoPro. The GoPro HERO5’s sensor has improved dynamic range and is better equipped for harsh lighting. For the first time ever in a GoPro, RAW output is also possible – images can finally be edited effectively and competitively. The inclusion of image stabilization also ensures crisp photos and smooth recordings. 4k recording is also possible, which is a must for any professional filmmaker these days.
The body of GoPro HERO5 is also waterproof for up to 30 ft. Many users have reported that the HERO5’s own sealing is unreliable though. Cautious owners should still invest in an external waterproof case.
It might not be “the new GoPro HERO 5” anymore, but it still more that easily holds its own in the market and in 2024 you’ll be able to pick on up at a great price.
Where the GoPro HERO5 Falls Short
In order to be fair with this HERO5 review, we’ve got to tell you where it misses the mark too.
Many of the problems that have consistently plagued GoPros still haunt the HERO5. Battery life is atrocious. The internal software can be very glitchy and the HERO5’s responsiveness suffers as a result. If these issues are deal breakers for you, try looking at some alternative action cameras.
Finally, a GoPro will never offer the photographic flexibility that a mirrorless or DSLR does. You won’t be able to change the focal range (much) and altering the exposure settings – via the camera menus – is a total hassle.
Most GoPro owners are aware of these limitations though and accept the device for what it is. So, let’s get a closer look at the GoPro 5 specs for a better idea of what it can and can’t do.
GoPro HERO5 Specs
- 1.75 x 2.4 x 1.25” / 4.12 ozs
- 12 MP 1/2.3” Sensor
- Built-in 9.5mm lens (14mm FF equivalent) – images can be cropped in-camera for simulated FOVs
- Waterproof up to 30 ft without a case
- Up to 4k video recording
- Top-notch Video Quality
GoPro HERO5 Upgrade
Want the next generation that takes the epic GoPro 5 quality and makes it ever better? The GoPro HERO6 has a better processor and higher resolution when filing 4k.
GoPro HERO5 Pro Tips
- You can mount a GoPro on just about anything: a bike, a helmet, a surfboard, and more. These mounts really bring out the best in GoPros. With them, you can film from lots of eye-catching angles. You can buy dedicated GoPro mounts too.
- Battery life really is the GoPro’s achilles heel. Make sure you turn off tertiary hardware like GPS, WiFi, and Voice to maximize power savings.
- You can actually buy filters for the GoPro! Pick up an ND or polarizing filter to capture images that resemble those taken by the pros.
- If you’re wondering which is the best GoPro HERO 5, we recommend the Black edition.
Is the GoPro HERO5 for You?
Do you want to record thrilling videos? Do you want a camera that can be mounted just about anywhere and in any environment? Then go grab a GoPro HERO5 and start recording! This camera is still one of the best cameras for travel.
So, is the GoPro HERO 5 worth it? That’s up to you to decide, but we sure think so!
What is our final score for the GoPro HERO5? We give it a rating of 4 out 5 stars!
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GoPro HERO5 Alternatives
Perhaps the GoPro Hero 5 is the action camera for you. We get that. Thankfully, there are now plenty of decent competitors out there and we have sampled most of them.
#OCLU Action Camera: Best Budget Go Pro Alternative
What to start capturing excellent 4k footage straight out of the box? Meet the OCLU action camera. This cleverly designed action cam has been turning heads for the last few years – at a cost that won’t totally upend your gear budget for the year.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
