GoPro cameras were a novelty when they were released in 2002. Today, a GoPro camera is the quintessential versatile action camera designed for mobile filming, including live video capture.
In my opinion, the best GoPro for live streaming is the GoPro Hero 7 Silver, thanks to its exceptional image stabilization technology.
If you plan to start streaming with one of these beauties, you’re in luck—I have tested several models and selected the top 5 GoPro cameras to assist you in choosing the right one!
QUICK OVERVIEW: Best GoPro for Live Streaming
 | Top Choice HERO 7 Silver
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 | HERO 9 Black
| |
 | HERO 8 Black
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It can be a nightmare to find the best value in an overloaded market. With so many options available, which action cams that support streaming provide the best value for your money?
The answer is GoPro cameras!
I have tested numerous models under different conditions, and here are my top five selections:
Table of Contents
1. GoPro HERO 7 Silver
Best Overall
Stefan’s Take:
I tested this camera while skiing and after rewatching the footage, the feature that stood out was video stabilization – shaking didn’t compromise the HD video quality, so for those that like to share their wild adventures on Facebook or YouTube, this is a piece of equipment you need!
Additionally, GoPro App is quite handy for going live or sharing your videos, so this is the ultimate GoPro for live streaming in my books.
| Resolution | 10 |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | 10 |
| Battery Life | 9 |
| Weight | 10 |
Why do I believe the GoPro Hero 7 Silver is the best among these?
GoPro has done an exceptional job of combining the advantages of a mobile device with the features of a modern action camera, making the GoPro Hero 7 your gateway to HD video streaming.
To meet the diverse demands of every situation, the touchscreen controls are designed to be streamlined and intuitive. Capture every moment in 4K resolution with just a tap!
This reliable GoPro camera offers a frame rate of 1080p240 video, allowing you to slow down footage by 8x or speed it up to 30x, enabling you to relive every moment with remarkable precision, capturing even the smallest details.
Originally designed for extreme watersports, this action camera guarantees high-quality footage in 12MP and 4K60 live video quality, even during high-speed movement through rocky landscapes or while riding ocean waves.
HyperSmooth video stabilization is a key feature of the best GoPro cameras that this classic model embodies. It automatically adjusts to your movements and provides HD footage instantly.
You don’t even need to use your hands to fully benefit from this video camera. With over 10 commands at your disposal, you can focus on the moment while the GoPro handles all the work for you.
Everything mentioned so far sounds great, doesn’t it? However, pure specifications cannot encompass everything in an action camera; dimensions, weight, and battery life are just as important as the specifications.
This action cam weighs 4.2 ounces and has dimensions of 2.4 x 1.3 x 1.8 inches. Its rugged construction, along with high-quality materials and a lightweight frame, makes it perfect for travel.
Lithium-ion batteries are the gold standard for powering portable electronic devices. However, with this video camera, there is significant room for improvement in this area.
At maximum settings, you can expect approximately an hour of use before needing a recharge. The battery in this video camera is non-removable; however, you can extend its operational time by using an external battery pack.
Additionally, I appreciated how simple it was to share my adventures in real-time.
Once you have the GoPro app installed on your smartphone, you can connect it to your GoPro Hero video camera and stream on Facebook Live.
Overall, this is a premium streaming camera designed for 4K video capture during high-speed movement across various terrains and environments.
If mediocre battery life isn’t a concern for you, this is the best GoPro camera for those who want to experience what the GoPro Hero series has to offer.
Pros
- Extremely reliable and lightweight
- Very affordable
- Waterproof
Cons
- Poor battery life
2. GoPro HERO9 Black
Best Battery Life
Stefan’s Take:
I was so happy that GoPro finally decided to resolve the issue of battery life with this model. I do have to note that I didn’t test it in extreme conditions, but 2+ hours of battery life in standard conditions is quite amazing.
However, the more powerful battery resulted in a heavier and bigger camera, and I do prefer something less heavy to carry with me when I am out and about.
| Resolution | 10 |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | 9 |
| Battery Life | 10 |
| Weight | 9 |
With a maximum focal length of 1 millimeter and a minimum of 20 millimeters, along with a wealth of image capture technology, this action cam serves as a love letter to digital photographers eager to capture every scene in its full glory while on the go.
The GoPro Hero9 Black is the first model to overcome the disappointing battery life that was prevalent in the GoPro Hero series; you can film continuously for over 2 hours, marking a significant improvement from the previous model.
Another feature that must be highlighted is the in-camera horizon leveling.
Although this feature is also available on the GoPro Hero 8, it can only be accessed through the GoPro app, whereas this model can utilize the feature immediately, right out of the box.
This action camera offers some of the best video resolution modes available, ranging from 5K and 4K video capture to 2.7K, 1440p, and even 1080p!
Whether you want to save space on your SD card or create videos in various resolutions, the GoPro Hero9 is highly versatile in every aspect.
Renowned for its exceptional image quality, the GoPro Hero9 features 20MP, along with RAW, SuperPhoto, and HDR software that operates using advanced image processing algorithms.
As you can see, the main concept behind this camera is to automate image processing and angle adjustment tasks as much as possible, allowing the user to focus on recording video and capturing photos.
Hands-free technology has advanced significantly in just a few years, showing no signs of slowing down. You can control the camera using voice commands, schedule when you want it to record video and for how long, and much more.
For dedicated streamers, GoPro’s app includes an integrated streaming feature.
At 1080p record quality, you can stream live and share your best moments on social media whenever you want, provided you have a personal hotspot through a router, smartphone, or laptop.
A highly valued feature introduced in this iteration of the series is the option to install media mods. With this mod, you can connect a stylish external microphone without needing an external adapter.
With the innovative Slo-Mo technology, you can view fast-paced moments up to 8 times slower at 240 fps.
If you need to accelerate your tasks, TimeWarp 3.0 is the perfect tool for the job!
Widely utilized for capturing professional-grade scenery, the GoPro Hero9 Black demonstrates its capabilities with on-the-spot editing right from the start.
You can take this action camera anywhere, even up to 33ft underwater! GoPro Hero series cameras are incredibly durable and waterproof, making them perfect companions for any adventure.
Pros
- Fantastic price points
- Drastically improved front-facing screen
- Superb build quality with premium materials
Cons
- Slightly heavier and larger
3. GoPro HERO8 Black
The most customizable GoPro
Stefan’s Take:
I knew that this GoPro has 4 different digital lenses and I tested all of them underwater. And the videos were superb! Switching between different lenses really added some dynamics to my clips. So if you like to test different angles, this is the best choice.
I just wished that I could play with all of its features a bit longer, but GoPro kept the old battery.
| Resolution | 9 |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | 10 |
| Battery Life | 9 |
| Weight | 9 |
While the differences between the Hero 7 and Hero 8 action cameras are minimal regarding aesthetics and image quality, the GoPro Hero 8 offers a few additional features. But is it worth the upgrade?
The GoPro Hero 8 is a highly customizable camera with significant potential.
While aesthetically nearly identical to the GoPro Hero 7 and offering the same image quality, the GoPro Hero 8 introduces official GoPro mod add-ons that provide the user with a significant advantage.
The Media Mod features a 3.5mm external microphone port, a built-in directional microphone, an HDMI-out port, and two cold-shoe mounts.
One of the primary advantages of this mod is that it enables you to install non-GoPro equipment on your setup.
If you wish to install any of the other mods, this is essential to purchase.
The Light Mod provides you with LED lights that have a brightness of 200 lumens and a separate rechargeable battery lasting 6 hours.
With this mod, you will always experience optimal lighting conditions, regardless of your location.
With the Display Mod, you can view yourself while filming on a compact, foldable LCD screen. Specifically designed for professional vloggers, this mod caters to their requirements.
The GoPro Hero 8 was the first action camera to introduce this level of customizable modular add-ons.
The modular features of the GoPro Hero 8 significantly enhance the filmmaking capabilities of this camera. If you feel inspired, you can design your own custom mod builds.
In addition to numerous GoPro mounts and accessories (over 45 separate customization add-ons), the GoPro Hero 8 is technically superior in many key areas.
GoPro Hero 8 benefits from a higher bitrate (100 MB/s) compared to other GoPro cameras. This upgrade enhances data encoding and significantly improves image quality.
This camera also features a RAW output format, a new addition that most professional photographers will value.
Although the default video capture resolution remains the same (4K), live streaming on this camera is significantly better than that of the previous model, which has a default resolution of 1080p.
GoPro has enhanced the highly praised TimeWarp feature that made the GoPro Hero 7 a market favorite. With TimeWarp 2.0, you can capture super-stabilized time-lapse videos of superior quality.
The digital lenses are new and improved!
You can capture your shots using Linear, Narrow, Wide, or SuperView lenses. If you enjoy changing styles and adding variety to your shots, these options will be a delight!
The battery life, however, remains unchanged at 1,220mAh. This is a major reason why many people chose not to upgrade from their GoPro Hero 7 camera, and why I believe the GoPro Hero 7 is the superior model.
The ISO range (100-3200) and camera controls remain unchanged. The GoPro Hero 7 model also features a built-in HDMI port, which is not present in the GoPro Hero 8.
If you choose to purchase the GoPro Hero 8, it is advisable to invest in a few mods and add-ons. With the appropriate modifications, this camera stands out as the best option in the mid-tier range.
Pros
- Compatible with over 45 accessories and mounts
- One of the most customizable GoPro cameras
- Great all-around specs
Cons
- Expect to invest in additional mods
4. GoPro HERO10 Black
Ideal for Live Streaming
Stefan’s Take:
When it comes to video quality and resolution, this camera is quite similar to other models, but some extra features make it more suitable for live streaming.
The display mode is built for vlogging, and the front placement microphone really improved the audio. The wind noise was still present in my clips, but significantly less compared to videos shot with other models.
| Resolution | 9 |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | 9 |
| Battery Life | 9 |
| Weight | 9 |
The GoPro Hero 10 embodies the qualities of the finest GoPro cameras.
It features the best built-in microphone of all previous models, with build quality that is appropriate for a luxurious camera in its class.
Everything you know and love from previous generations of Hero cameras is present and enhanced; from the front-facing screen to the voice control options, this camera boasts excellent build quality and improved responsiveness.
GoPro frequently claims that the Hero 10 series is the most durable set of cameras it has ever produced, and this is not just empty rhetoric; these video cameras can dive up to 33 feet deep and can endure falls on hard surfaces, often without sustaining any scratches!
This device is not only a professional sports camera for live streaming; it also functions as a webcam for streaming.
You can utilize the complete features of this streaming camera with software from all major digital publishing companies, such as OBS—without needing to acquire the best capture card for OBS!
The immense power of this camera attracts as much attention as its versatility; it captures ultra-sharp resolution video at 5.3K60 and 4K120, featuring advanced low-light performance software!
HyperSmooth was arguably one of the most iconic features of a GoPro camera, and the company invested significantly to deliver the most advanced version of this software to date: HyperSmooth 4.0.
This software features horizon leveling from 27° to 45° and automatic image stabilization at a level never before achieved in video cameras. Regardless of your actions, the video image remains consistently stable.
The GoPro Hero 8 camera was the first in the series to feature a wide range of modifications; however, this model surpasses the Hero 8 with even more modular add-ons that provide you with a significant advantage.
True to its reputation as the best GoPro camera for sports enthusiasts and filmmakers, it offers 8x Slo-Mo at 2.7k resolution. You will never again be compelled to compromise on video quality during previews.
Upload all your content to limitless cloud storage via the built-in USB-C cable or the Quik app. This camera offers nearly unlimited options to enhance your live-streaming efforts with the highest quality.
Even though this product is considered one of the best GoPro cameras on the market, the included batteries do not last very long.
You can expect up to 40 minutes of recording at 1080p, though there may be occasional overheating.
I also experienced issues with overheating, and after conducting a few tests, I determined that the optimal usage time is 10 to 15 minutes.
Pros
- Arguably the best camera in terms of overall specs
- Extremely customizable and durable
- One of the highest frame rate ratios to date
Cons
- The unit tends to overheat if used for too long without a break
5. GoPro MAX
Best Video Resolution
Stefan’s Take:
Even though this model doesn’t have 4K recording, because of its other features (MAX TimeWrap, MAX HyperSmooth, and MAX SuperView), you can record high-quality videos. Plus, I liked that I didn’t have to edit the audio too much, because it was quite good thanks to those six microphones.
However, the battery issue is present, and the camera seems fragile, so I wouldn’t recommend using it really harsh conditions.
| Resolution | 9 |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | 9 |
| Battery Life | 9 |
| Weight | 8 |
When you hold a GoPro MAX in your hands, you instantly recognize that this is not an ordinary camera.
Simply referring to it as a high-quality live stream video camera would not fully capture its value.
This is the best GoPro for artists on the go; it features six mini microphones and a highly responsive voice control system that sets it apart from most cameras in terms of audio quality.
Do you want to capture the perfect selfie or an artistic scene?
GoPro MAX has you covered with PowerPano; capture 270-degree photos of any scene, and they will appear as if they were taken from an art gallery!
Most users are familiar with digital lens modes such as Wide, Linear, and Narrow modes; however, the GoPro MAX introduces a new option: MAX SuperView. To date, this is GoPro’s widest view offered in commercial camera units.
The iconic GoPro deal-breaker, HyperSmooth, has been completely reworked! Introducing MAX HyperSmooth: a customized version of the legendary software that utilizes 180-degree capture as a buffer!
GoPro MAX is designed to capture the widest footage of any GoPro to date, and it accomplishes this with flying colors!
Alongside MAX HyperSmooth, we have MAX TimeWarp! The name may be familiar, but this version of the renowned software also pushes the boundaries beyond everyone’s expectations.
Slow down fast-paced videos to a crawl and absorb every captured moment.
The cam’s HERO mode activates the GoPro MAX sensors to adjust the scene according to external factors such as lighting and motion, delivering the most detailed scenes that will amaze you at every turn.
This camera is a dream come true for bloggers, featuring a top-of-the-line front-facing screen and integrated microphone systems. You can record content to your heart’s content and stream in 1080p.
The best part? You don’t need to move the camera left or right to capture stunning scenery footage at 270 degrees. All you have to do is point the lens at the scenery and click—it’s that simple.
However, there are also several downsides…
To begin with, this unit does not have a night mode installed. It is designed solely for daytime filming and photography.
When night falls, the camera’s performance will diminish unless you have strong lights with you.
The GoPro MAX is significantly more fragile than earlier models; without a protective case, you should avoid taking this unit into a pool.
Exposing the unit to extreme conditions without protection is more likely to result in negative outcomes compared to more durable models, such as the Hero 10 Black.
There is no 4K capture available. All of your shots will be in either 1080p or 1440p. Most mods support 60 fps, with the lowest frame rates being 30 or 24 fps.
As is typical with this model (like most GoPro cameras), it consumes battery power very quickly. Features such as TimeWarp can deplete up to 1/5 of your battery within just a few minutes of use.
Pros
- Uncontested in terms of image stabilization and horizon leveling
- The best cam out there for capturing audio
- Fantastic on-the-go video editing
Cons
- Most features drain the battery quickly
- Lacks a night mode
What to Look for in a GoPro for Live Streaming?
Today’s best deals offer numerous options, and your ideal choice will depend on how you intend to use your GoPro. However, there are a few universal qualities to consider.
1. Resolution
Video resolution is arguably the most important quality in any video production. Both video and sensor resolution dictate the maximum performance of your camera.
The resolution influences the clarity and sharpness of your videos and photos, the quality of colors, and the reduction of video artifacts. This is a crucial aspect that you should never compromise on.
As 4K video capture becomes standard in both commercial and professional settings, expectations will continue to rise. However, in most cases, a 1080p resolution is the minimum you should consider.
2. Hypersmooth
EIS (Electronic Image Stabilization) technology is what enabled GoPro to lead the action camera market. With effective EIS technology, you can ski down mountains while capturing stunning footage.
For example, the Hero 7 Black lacks EIS. This is acceptable if you are looking for an affordable, compact camera; however, if you intend to perform stunts such as paragliding or mountain biking, the Hero 9’s HyperSmooth 3.0 is the better choice.
3. ISO
In simple terms, ISO is a setting that influences the brightness or darkness of your images. It represents how sensitive your device is to light.
In night photography, a high ISO value is crucial, second only to a camera’s resolution. For photography in bright daylight and well-lit areas, a low ISO setting is preferred.
4. Weight
Action cams are typically lightweight, which is a defining characteristic of recording equipment in this category. The weight of a cam can be a dealbreaker depending on your intended use.
The Hero 7 weighs only 116 grams, while the technologically advanced Hero 10 weighs 158 grams. Although the difference may seem minor, if you do not require the features of the latter, weight can be a crucial factor, particularly in highly mobile filming environments.
5. Price
When purchasing a GoPro, build quality, features, and specifications may be among your primary considerations. However, let’s be honest; not every budget can accommodate a GoPro MAX or Hero 10.
The most expensive options should be avoided if a more affordable camera can accomplish the task.
Conclusion
I hope you find this article useful and that you have discovered the model that suits your needs.
Here is an overview of my three favorites:
Whichever option you choose, you won’t go wrong. Enjoy your thrilling adventures with the new gadget!
FAQ
1. Do I need a capture card for streaming?
Most cameras built for streaming can function without the need for an additional capture device. If you plan on using a DSLR or two PC set-up, then it is worthwhile to invest in a capture device.
2. Can you use a DSLR for streaming?
It’s possible to use u003ca href=u0022https://streammentor.com/best-dslr-camera-for-streaming/u0022 target=u0022_blanku0022 rel=u0022noreferrer noopeneru0022u003eDSLR for streamingu003c/au003e, but it’s not ideal nor is a DLSR meant for streaming. If you feel adventurous thought, find a model that has an HDMI output and a battery that can keep the camera online during your streaming sessions.
3. Which GoPro can live stream?
Most of the newer models are more than ideal for this task, but we would recommend Hero8 Black, Hero9 Black, and GoPro MAX.
