8 Best Go Pro Cameras 2025 in the United States

The GoPro HERO12 Black is a robust choice for capturing high-quality action footage. Its standout feature is the 5.3K60 Ultra HD video resolution which provides exceptional detail and cinematic quality, surpassing standard 4K and 1080p video. Additionally, it offers 27MP photos and HDR capabilities, ensuring dynamic and true-to-life colors in both bright and low-light conditions.

The Emmy Award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization is impressive, making shaky footage smooth and watchable, perfect for activities like biking, skiing, or even capturing pet POV shots. Durability is another strong suit, as the HERO12 Black is waterproof up to 33ft (10m) and built to withstand harsh environments, including mud and snow. The battery life is supported by the included Enduro rechargeable battery, which should provide ample usage time for most activities.

Connectivity is straightforward with Bluetooth, allowing easy sharing and streaming. The field of view (FOV) is expansive, thanks to the 1/1.9" image sensor, ensuring wide-angle shots that capture more action. Mounting options are versatile with the included curved adhesive mount and mounting buckle, offering flexibility in various scenarios. On the downside, the 2.27-inch screen size might feel small for some users when reviewing footage, and while the camera is packed with features, it could be overwhelming for those new to action cameras. However, for adventure enthusiasts and content creators seeking top-tier image quality and durability, the GoPro HERO12 Black is a compelling option.

The GoPro HERO13 Black is an impressive waterproof action camera that offers high-quality 5.3K video at 60 frames per second (fps) and excellent 27MP photo capabilities. This makes it ideal for capturing detailed and smooth footage, especially for adventurous creators and sports enthusiasts.

The camera's image stabilization ensures that your videos remain steady even in action-packed scenarios. With its legendary durability and waterproofing, you can confidently use it in rugged environments and underwater adventures without worrying about damage. The addition of HB-Series lenses compatibility further enhances its versatility and creative potential for different shooting conditions.

The battery life has seen improvement, making it more reliable for prolonged recording sessions. The camera offers a wide field of view, which is great for capturing expansive scenes. Connectivity is straightforward with USB support and the camera's mount compatibility ensures that it can be easily attached to various accessories and surfaces. Despite the screen size of 2.27 inches possibly feeling small for some users, the camera maintains a relatively compact and lightweight design, weighing just 5.5 ounces.

The GoPro MAX is a versatile action camera that stands out for its dual 360-degree and traditional video capabilities. It captures high-resolution 5.6K30 spherical videos and 16.6MP photos, letting you record immersive footage without worrying about framing the shot. The camera supports 3K60 slow-motion video, which is great for capturing fast action in detail. Image stabilization is strong, helping to produce smooth, shake-free videos even during intense activities. The MAX is waterproof and built tough, making it reliable for outdoor adventures. Its 2-inch touchscreen makes navigating settings and previews simple.

Battery life is decent, especially with the included Enduro battery designed to last longer in cooler conditions. You get flexible mounting options, including a stealth mode that hides selfie poles in footage, enhancing creativity. Connectivity through the GoPro Quik app is seamless, allowing easy editing and live streaming at 1080p. One downside is that while 5.6K resolution is impressive, 360 editing can be more complex and demands more from your phone or computer. Also, the camera weighs a bit more than standard GoPro HERO models, which might be noticeable during extended handheld use.

If you want both traditional and immersive 360 action footage with strong stabilization and waterproof durability, the GoPro MAX is a solid choice. It is especially suitable for users who enjoy creative video angles and easy mobile editing, but it may be more than needed if you only want straightforward action shots.