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GoPro HERO4 Session Review | 96 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£380
  • Avg. price in US: ~$400
  • Video resolution: 1440p
  • Battery life: 120 min
  • Waterproof depth: 10 m
  • Electronic image stabilization: no
  • Maximum 4K frame rate: 0 fps

GoPro HERO4 Session review. Compare 96 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among action cameras and if it is worth buying.

6.1

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the action camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best action cameras on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

5.4

Technical Score

20.0%

9.2

User score

Good
5.4

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the action camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: video quality, image quality, stabilization, ruggedness, waterproofing, mounting options, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare action cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

30.0%

3.1

Video

22.0%

5.7

Photo

14.0%

7.6

Ruggedness & Storage

13.0%

5.2

Battery

11.0%

4.9

Connectivity & Audio

10.0%

8.9

Display & Design

Good
9.2

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the action camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(1727)
amazon
4.5
(688)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(1757)
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(796)
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(138)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Exceptional
  • 5.2
    Motorcycle riding

    Score components:

    35.0%

    1.0

    Electronic image stabilization

    30.0%

    6.3

    Video resolution

    20.0%

    7.3

    Battery life

    15.0%

    10

    Waterproof depth

  • 4.2
    Skiing

    Score components:

    30.0%

    1.0

    Electronic image stabilization

    25.0%

    1.0

    Horizon leveling

    25.0%

    10

    Waterproof depth

    20.0%

    5.5

    Minimum operating temperature

  • 1.9
    Low light

    Score components:

    35.0%

    1.0

    HDR mode

    30.0%

    4.0

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Color depth

    15.0%

    1.0

    Electronic image stabilization

  • 5.1
    Long videos

    Score components:

    50.0%

    7.3

    Battery life

    20.0%

    1.0

    Removable battery

    15.0%

    1.0

    Fast charging

    15.0%

    7.4

    Charging time

  • gopro-hero4-session
  • gopro-hero4-session
gopro-hero4-session
gopro-hero4-session

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The GoPro Hero4 Session is a compact, 1.5-inch cube-shaped action camera that is 50% smaller and 40% lighter than its Hero4 predecessors. It features an integrated waterproof design capable of reaching depths of 10 meters (33 feet) without an external housing and offers simple one-button operation to capture 1080p video at 60 fps, 1440p at 30 fps, and 8MP still photos. Key advantages include its versatile mounting options, dual-microphone system for improved audio in windy conditions, and an 'Auto Low Light' mode; however, it lacks a removable battery, does not support 4K resolution, and requires the companion smartphone app to adjust most advanced settings.

Technical Specifications of GoPro HERO4 Session

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the action camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: video quality, image quality, stabilization, ruggedness, waterproofing, mounting options, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare action cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

30.0%

3.1

Video

22.0%

5.7

Photo

14.0%

7.6

Ruggedness & Storage

13.0%

5.2

Battery

11.0%

4.9

Connectivity & Audio

10.0%

8.9

Display & Design

5.4
GoPro HERO4 Session has a technical score of 5.37 points, which is lower than 77.1% of action cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the action camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(1727)
amazon
4.5
(688)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(1757)
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(796)
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(138)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

9.2
GoPro HERO4 Session has a user score of 9.16 points, which is higher than 80.1% of action cameras.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the action camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which action cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
10
GoPro HERO4 Session has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 68.7% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the action camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

6.1

Overall score

40.0%

8.5

Price

6.8
GoPro HERO4 Session has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.8 points, which is lower than 68.1% of products in this category.
Video resolution
What it is: The listed recording format states maximum capture resolution and frame rate.
When it matters: When video quality matters for your footage.

Importance: HIGH

1440p
GoPro HERO4 Session records video at 1440p, which is lower than that of 65.7% of action cameras.
Maximum 4K frame rate
What it is: Indicates the highest frame rate available when recording at 4K resolution.
When it matters: When you want detailed footage and still need enough frame rate for action or mild slow motion.

Importance: HIGH

0 fps
GoPro HERO4 Session has a maximum 4K frame rate of 0 fps, which is lower than that of 71% of action cameras and equal to that of 29.1% of action cameras.
Maximum 1080p frame rate
What it is: Indicates the highest frame rate available when recording at 1080p resolution.
When it matters: When you want smoother slow motion or fast-action playback while staying at 1080p resolution.

Importance: MEDIUM

60 fps
GoPro HERO4 Session has a maximum 1080p frame rate of 60 fps, which is higher than that of 24.2% of action cameras and equal to that of 34% of action cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: HIGH

25 Mbps
GoPro HERO4 Session has a video bitrate of 25 Mbps, which is lower than that of 81% of action cameras and equal to that of 4.8% of action cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264
GoPro HERO4 Session supports the following video codecs: H.264. Its codec support is more advanced than that of 2.4% of action cameras.
Show more
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The resolution of the primary rear camera sensor, measured in millions of pixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want to capture high-resolution images that can be cropped or printed large.

Importance: HIGH

8 MP
GoPro HERO4 Session has a main camera resolution of 8 MP, which is lower than that of 86.1% of action cameras and equal to that of 6.6% of action cameras.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

1/3.2"
GoPro HERO4 Session has a sensor size of 1/3.2", which is smaller than that of 98.1% of action cameras.
Main camera aperture
What it is: The size of the lens opening (f-stop) that controls light entry. A lower f-number indicates a wider aperture, allowing better low-light shots.
When it matters: When you want better low-light performance or a natural background blur effect.

Importance: HIGH

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Photo resolution
What it is: The maximum resolution of still photos captured by the camera, measured in megapixels.
When it matters: When you want more detail for cropping, large displays, or prints; higher photo resolution provides more pixels when image quality is otherwise comparable.

Importance: LOW

?
Field of view
What it is: The field-of-view angle shows how wide the camera can capture in one frame.
When it matters: When you want a wider or tighter look from the camera.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Built-in display
What it is: Whether the action camera has its own built-in screen for framing, playback, or settings.
When it matters: When you want to frame shots, review clips, or change settings directly on the camera.

Importance: LOW

?
Screen size
What it is: The physical diagonal measurement of the display area, usually expressed in inches.
When it matters: When you want a bigger on-camera screen for framing, playback, or reading menus more easily.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Touchscreen
What it is: Indicates that the display acts as an input device, recognizing touch gestures.
When it matters: When you interact with your device using intuitive taps and gestures.

Importance: LOW

?
Secondary screen
What it is: Indicates whether the camera includes an additional display separate from the main screen.
When it matters: When you vlog, frame yourself often, or need status info visible without rotating the camera.

Importance: LOW

?
Secondary screen resolution
What it is: States the pixel resolution of the additional display used for status information or framing.
When it matters: When you depend on the front or extra display for framing and want a clearer preview.

Importance: LOW

?
Show more
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: The ability to connect to wireless local area networks for internet access and local networking.
When it matters: When you want to save mobile data and connect to home or public networks.

Importance: LOW

yes
GoPro HERO4 Session supports Wi-Fi connectivity. This feature is present on 92.5% of action cameras.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

802.11b/g/n
GoPro HERO4 Session supports 802.11b/g/n, which is newer than the standard supported by 5.5% of action cameras and equal to the standard supported by 45.2% of action cameras.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version the action camera supports for wireless accessories and companion-device pairing.
When it matters: When you want to pair the camera with wireless accessories or a companion device reliably.

Importance: LOW

4.0
GoPro HERO4 Session supports Bluetooth version 4.0 which is newer than that supported by 47.8% of action cameras and equal to that of 17% of action cameras.
GPS
What it is: Support for the Global Positioning System to determine the device's precise location.
When it matters: When you need accurate navigation for driving, walking, or exploring new places.

Importance: LOW

no
GoPro HERO4 Session does not support GPS. 13.9% of action cameras include GPS functionality.
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
GoPro HERO4 Session does not include USB Type-C. 42.4% of action cameras use USB-C.
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Battery life
What it is: The typical endurance the watch can deliver on a full charge under the stated usage pattern.
When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

Importance: HIGH

120 min
GoPro HERO4 Session runs for 120 min per charge, which is longer than the battery life of 62.8% of action cameras and equal to the battery life of 10.4% of action cameras.
Battery power
What it is: The battery capacity, usually measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

Importance: MEDIUM

1,030 mAh
GoPro HERO4 Session has a battery capacity of 1030 mAh, which is lower than that of 73.9% of action cameras.
Charging time
What it is: The time the battery needs to recharge fully under supported conditions.
When it matters: When you want shorter breaks between charges.

Importance: MEDIUM

2 h
GoPro HERO4 Session charges in 2 h, which is shorter than the charging time of 41.5% of action cameras and equal to the charging time of 27% of action cameras.
Fast charging
What it is: Whether the camera supports faster-than-standard charging to reduce downtime between shoots.
When it matters: When you need to recharge quickly between shooting sessions, travel stops, or battery swaps.

Importance: LOW

no
GoPro HERO4 Session does not support fast charging. 19.4% of action cameras support fast charging.
Wireless charging
What it is: Whether the camera itself can charge wirelessly on a compatible charging surface or dock.
When it matters: When you want to top up the camera without plugging in a cable every time.

Importance: LOW

no
GoPro HERO4 Session does not support wireless charging. 0.6% of action cameras support wireless charging.
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Waterproof depth
What it is: The maximum depth of water the device is certified to withstand for a specific duration.
When it matters: When you film while swimming, snorkeling, or in heavy water exposure and need to know the camera's native underwater limit.

Importance: HIGH

10 m
GoPro HERO4 Session is waterproof to 10 m, which is deeper than the waterproof depth of 67.1% of action cameras and equal to the waterproof depth of 23.8% of action cameras.
Without additional housing
IP rating
What it is: A standardized protection code that shows how well the action camera resists dust and water ingress.
When it matters: When you shoot in rain, snow, dust, or around water and want to know how well the camera is sealed.

Importance: MEDIUM

?
Maximum operating temperature
What it is: The highest ambient temperature at which the watch is rated to operate normally.
When it matters: When you use the watch in heat, cold, or at high altitude.

Importance: LOW

35 °C
GoPro HERO4 Session has a maximum operating temperature of 35 °C, which is lower than that of 77.4% of action cameras and equal to that of 22.6% of action cameras.
Minimum operating temperature
What it is: The lowest ambient temperature at which the watch is rated to operate normally.
When it matters: When you use the watch in heat, cold, or at high altitude.

Importance: LOW

-10 °C
GoPro HERO4 Session has a minimum operating temperature of -10 °C, which is lower than that of 32.4% of action cameras and equal to that of 44.4% of action cameras.
External memory slot
What it is: A slot for expandable storage such as a memory card, if the watch provides one.
When it matters: When you want more room for apps, music, or offline data.

Importance: LOW

yes
GoPro HERO4 Session includes an external memory slot. This feature is present on 95.2% of action cameras.
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GoPro HERO4 Session vs the average action camera

  • 9 m deeper waterproof depth
    GoPro HERO4 Session has a higher waterproof depth rating than the average action camera (10 m vs 1 m). The average action camera has a waterproof depth rating of 1 m.
    Without additional housing
    What it is: The maximum depth of water the device is certified to withstand for a specific duration.
    When it matters: When you film while swimming, snorkeling, or in heavy water exposure and need to know the camera's native underwater limit.

    Importance: HIGH

    GoPro HERO4 Session has a higher waterproof depth rating than the average action camera (10 m vs 1 m). The average action camera has a waterproof depth rating of 1 m.10 m vs 1 m
  • Damage-resistant glass
    GoPro HERO4 Session uses damage-resistant glass, the average action camera does not. 43.2% of action cameras use damage-resistant glass.
    What it is: Indicates whether the outer glass is designed to better resist scratches, impacts, or everyday wear.
    When it matters: When the camera will be exposed to debris, accidental knocks, or rough travel conditions.

    Importance: LOW

    GoPro HERO4 Session uses damage-resistant glass, the average action camera does not. 43.2% of action cameras use damage-resistant glass.
  • 30 min longer battery life
    GoPro HERO4 Session has longer battery life than the average action camera (120 min vs 90 min). The average action camera offers 90 min of battery life.
    What it is: The typical endurance the watch can deliver on a full charge under the stated usage pattern.
    When it matters: When you do not want to charge the watch too often.

    Importance: HIGH

    GoPro HERO4 Session has longer battery life than the average action camera (120 min vs 90 min). The average action camera offers 90 min of battery life.120 min vs 90 min
  • Replaceable lens cover
    GoPro HERO4 Session has a replaceable lens cover, the average action camera does not. 31.5% of action cameras have a replaceable lens cover.
    What it is: Shows whether the front lens protector can be removed and replaced if it gets scratched or damaged.
    When it matters: When the camera will face sand, branches, crashes, or other abuse that can scratch the front glass.

    Importance: LOW

    GoPro HERO4 Session has a replaceable lens cover, the average action camera does not. 31.5% of action cameras have a replaceable lens cover.
  • 35.1% lighter
    GoPro HERO4 Session is lighter than the average action camera (74 g vs 114 g). The average action camera weighs 114 g.
    What it is: The total weight of the action camera body as carried or mounted in normal use.
    When it matters: When you mount the camera on a helmet, chest rig, bike, or selfie stick and want to keep the setup light.

    Importance: LOW

    GoPro HERO4 Session is lighter than the average action camera (74 g vs 114 g). The average action camera weighs 114 g.74 g vs 114 g
  • 22 mm narrower
    GoPro HERO4 Session is narrower than the average action camera (38 mm vs 60 mm). The average action camera has a width of 60 mm.
    What it is: The horizontal dimension of the device when held in portrait orientation.
    When it matters: When you want the camera body to fit better in mounts, pockets, or tight spaces.

    Importance: LOW

    GoPro HERO4 Session is narrower than the average action camera (38 mm vs 60 mm). The average action camera has a width of 60 mm.38 mm vs 60 mm
  • 10 mm shorter
    GoPro HERO4 Session is shorter than the average action camera (35 mm vs 45 mm). The average action camera has a height of 45 mm.
    What it is: The vertical size of the action camera body.
    When it matters: When you want the camera body to fit better in mounts, cases, or compact carry setups.

    Importance: LOW

    GoPro HERO4 Session is shorter than the average action camera (35 mm vs 45 mm). The average action camera has a height of 45 mm.35 mm vs 45 mm
  • 14.5% higher user score
    GoPro HERO4 Session has a higher user score than the average action camera (9.16 vs 8.000).
    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the action camera.
    When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.
    GoPro HERO4 Session has a higher user score than the average action camera (9.16 vs 8.000).9.16 vs 8
  • 35.1% lighter
    GoPro HERO4 Session is lighter than the average action camera (74 g vs 114 g). The average action camera weighs 114 g.
  • 22 mm narrower
    GoPro HERO4 Session is narrower than the average action camera (38 mm vs 60 mm). The average action camera has a width of 60 mm.
  • 10 mm shorter
    GoPro HERO4 Session is shorter than the average action camera (35 mm vs 45 mm). The average action camera has a height of 45 mm.
  • 30 min longer battery life
    GoPro HERO4 Session has longer battery life than the average action camera (120 min vs 90 min). The average action camera offers 90 min of battery life.
  • 9 m deeper waterproof depth
    GoPro HERO4 Session has a higher waterproof depth rating than the average action camera (10 m vs 1 m). The average action camera has a waterproof depth rating of 1 m.
  • Damage-resistant glass
    GoPro HERO4 Session uses damage-resistant glass, the average action camera does not. 43.2% of action cameras use damage-resistant glass.
  • Replaceable lens cover
    GoPro HERO4 Session has a replaceable lens cover, the average action camera does not. 31.5% of action cameras have a replaceable lens cover.

Total
Overall
Display & Design
Battery
Ruggedness & Storage
  • Lower video resolution
    GoPro HERO4 Session records at 1,440p, a lower video resolution than the average action camera (5.3K).
  • No electronic stabilization
    GoPro HERO4 Session does not support electronic stabilization, the average action camera does. 64.7% of action cameras support electronic image stabilization.
  • 30 fps lower 4K frame rate
    GoPro HERO4 Session has a lower 4K frame rate than the average action camera (0 fps vs 30 fps). The average action camera reaches 30 fps at 4K.
  • 58.3% lower video bitrate
    GoPro HERO4 Session has a lower video bitrate than the average action camera (25 Mbps vs 60 Mbps). The average action camera has a video bitrate of 60 Mbps.
  • Lower sensor size
    GoPro HERO4 Session has sensor size of 1/3.2", lower than the average action camera (1/2.3").
  • Lacks BSI sensor
    GoPro HERO4 Session does not use a BSI sensor, the average action camera does. 72.7% of action cameras use BSI sensors.
  • 4 MP lower main-camera resolution
    GoPro HERO4 Session has a lower main action camera resolution than the average action camera (8 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera has a resolution of 12 MP.
  • 29.8 s shorter exposure time
    GoPro HERO4 Session has a lower maximum exposure time than the average action camera (0.2 s vs 30 s). The average action camera supports a maximum exposure time of 30 s.
  • 3 older release date
    GoPro HERO4 Session is older than the average action camera (2,015 vs 2,018). The average action camera was released in 2,018.
    Released in July 2015.
  • Older Bluetooth version
    GoPro HERO4 Session uses an older Bluetooth version than the average action camera (4 vs 5.2). The average action camera uses Bluetooth 5.2.
  • No removable battery
    GoPro HERO4 Session does not have a removable battery, while the average action camera does.
  • 170 mAh less battery capacity
    GoPro HERO4 Session has a lower battery capacity than the average action camera (1,030 mAh vs 1,200 mAh). The average action camera has a battery capacity of 1,200 mAh.
  • 5 °C lower max operating temp
    GoPro HERO4 Session has a lower maximum operating temperature than the average action camera (35 °C vs 40 °C). The average action camera reaches a maximum operating temperature of 40 °C.
  • Lower video resolution
    GoPro HERO4 Session records at 1,440p, a lower video resolution than the average action camera (5.3K).
    What it is: The listed recording format states maximum capture resolution and frame rate.
    When it matters: When video quality matters for your footage.

    Importance: HIGH

    GoPro HERO4 Session records at 1,440p, a lower video resolution than the average action camera (5.3K).1440p vs 5.3K
  • No electronic stabilization
    GoPro HERO4 Session does not support electronic stabilization, the average action camera does. 64.7% of action cameras support electronic image stabilization.
    What it is: Shows whether the camera uses digital motion correction to make handheld video look steadier.
    When it matters: When you shoot handheld, mounted, or in motion and want smoother footage without external gear.

    Importance: HIGH

    GoPro HERO4 Session does not support electronic stabilization, the average action camera does. 64.7% of action cameras support electronic image stabilization.
  • Lower sensor size
    GoPro HERO4 Session has sensor size of 1/3.2", lower than the average action camera (1/2.3").
    What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: HIGH

    GoPro HERO4 Session has sensor size of 1/3.2", lower than the average action camera (1/2.3").1/3.2" vs 1/2.3"
  • 30 fps lower 4K frame rate
    GoPro HERO4 Session has a lower 4K frame rate than the average action camera (0 fps vs 30 fps). The average action camera reaches 30 fps at 4K.
    What it is: Indicates the highest frame rate available when recording at 4K resolution.
    When it matters: When you want detailed footage and still need enough frame rate for action or mild slow motion.

    Importance: HIGH

    GoPro HERO4 Session has a lower 4K frame rate than the average action camera (0 fps vs 30 fps). The average action camera reaches 30 fps at 4K.0 fps vs 30 fps
  • 58.3% lower video bitrate
    GoPro HERO4 Session has a lower video bitrate than the average action camera (25 Mbps vs 60 Mbps). The average action camera has a video bitrate of 60 Mbps.
    What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
    When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

    Importance: HIGH

    GoPro HERO4 Session has a lower video bitrate than the average action camera (25 Mbps vs 60 Mbps). The average action camera has a video bitrate of 60 Mbps.25 Mbps vs 60 Mbps
  • Lacks BSI sensor
    GoPro HERO4 Session does not use a BSI sensor, the average action camera does. 72.7% of action cameras use BSI sensors.
    What it is: Indicates the use of a Back-Side Illuminated sensor, which arranges the wiring behind the light-receiving surface to improve low-light sensitivity.
    When it matters: When you take photos in dim environments and need better light sensitivity.

    Importance: LOW

    GoPro HERO4 Session does not use a BSI sensor, the average action camera does. 72.7% of action cameras use BSI sensors.
  • Older Bluetooth version
    GoPro HERO4 Session uses an older Bluetooth version than the average action camera (4 vs 5.2). The average action camera uses Bluetooth 5.2.
    What it is: The Bluetooth version the action camera supports for wireless accessories and companion-device pairing.
    When it matters: When you want to pair the camera with wireless accessories or a companion device reliably.

    Importance: LOW

    GoPro HERO4 Session uses an older Bluetooth version than the average action camera (4 vs 5.2). The average action camera uses Bluetooth 5.2.4.0 vs 5.2
  • 4 MP lower main-camera resolution
    GoPro HERO4 Session has a lower main action camera resolution than the average action camera (8 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera has a resolution of 12 MP.
    What it is: The resolution of the primary rear camera sensor, measured in millions of pixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
    When it matters: When you want to capture high-resolution images that can be cropped or printed large.

    Importance: HIGH

    GoPro HERO4 Session has a lower main action camera resolution than the average action camera (8 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera has a resolution of 12 MP.8 MP vs 12 MP
Total
Overall
Video
Photo
Display & Design
Connectivity & Audio
Battery
Ruggedness & Storage

Graphic comparison of GoPro HERO4 Session and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
1727 Reviews
amazon
4.5
688 Reviews
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
1757 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
796 Reviews
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
138 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about GoPro HERO4 Session?

  • Extremely compact, lightweight, and low-profile cubic design
  • Waterproof up to 10 metres out of the box without requiring a bulky external housing
  • Simple, intuitive one-touch button recording operation
  • Clear audio performance with dual microphones designed to drain water and reduce wind noise
  • Flexible mounting options allowing the camera to be rotated in multiple orientations
  • Good battery life during standard use due to auto-powering off when recording stops

What customers dislike about GoPro HERO4 Session?

  • Internal battery is sealed and cannot be replaced or swapped in the field
  • Requires a smartphone app or remote control to adjust most settings and preview footage
  • Subpar video quality and dynamic range compared to same-generation models like the Hero4 Silver or Black
  • Poor performance in low-light conditions, leading to soft and noisy footage
  • Noticeable delay or lag between pressing the power button and the start of image capture
  • Initial launch price was considered significantly overpriced for the features offered

Expert reviews

D
dcrainmaker.com
30/09/2015
GoPro Hero4 Session In-Depth Review - DC Rainmaker

The GoPro Hero4 Session is a compact, cube-shaped action camera that stands out for its small form factor and native waterproofing up to 10 metres without an external housing. It features an incredibly efficient power-saving standby mode that automatically shuts the camera down between recording snippets, pushing the continuous recording battery life slightly past its two-hour...Read more

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dpreview.com
02/02/2016
Extreme made easy: GoPro HERO4 Session review: DPReview

The GoPro Hero4 Session review by DPReview highlights a compact, ruggedized cube design that is 50% smaller and 40% lighter than traditional Hero4 models. Key pros include a waterproof build without requiring external housing, a user-friendly one-button control scheme, solid battery life, and excellent audio quality featuring an automated dual-microphone system. The camera delivers...Read more

A
au.pcmag.com
24/07/2015
GoPro Hero4 Session - PCMag Australia

The GoPro Hero4 Session introduces a major redesign for the action camera brand, shrinking the device into a 1.5-inch, 2.6-ounce cube built for casual shooters. Priced at $399.99, it trades the high-end capabilities of its sibling, the Hero4 Silver, for pure simplicity and ease of use. Its standout features include a native waterproof body down to 33 feet without a bulky external...Read more

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time.com
06/07/2015
GoPro Hero 4 Session Review: The Smallest GoPro Ever - TIME

The GoPro Hero 4 Session review highlights a major design shift for the brand, introducing its smallest, lightest cube-shaped camera that is 50% smaller and 40% lighter than its flagship counterparts. A standout feature is its native water resistance up to 33 feet without needing a separate, bulky plastic housing, which significantly improves audio quality as the dual-microphone...Read more

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techradar.com
08/11/2018
GoPro Hero4 Session review | TechRadar

The GoPro Hero4 Session introduces a highly compact, cube-shaped design that is 50% smaller and 40% lighter than previous HERO4 models, offering excellent versatility for low-profile and multi-angle mounting without requiring external waterproof housing up to 10 metres. It features a simplified, one-button interface that automatically initiates recording or time-lapse captures...Read more

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mtbboy1993.wordpress.com
12/08/2020
Long-term review of GoPro 4 Session - mtbboy1993

The GoPro HERO4 Session is a highly durable, lightweight, square action camera that excels in physical design but suffers from notable performance flaws. On the positive side, its robust, compact body fits easily into tight spaces and withstands drops, making it incredibly resilient. Users will find its lens highly scratch-resistant, the buttons tactile and durable, and the micro-SD...Read more

C
cnet.com
06/07/2015
GoPro Hero4 Session review: This cube is ready for action

The GoPro Hero4 Session marks a significant design shift as a compact, cube-shaped action camera that is 40% lighter than previous rectangular models like the Hero4 Silver and Black. Its standout features include a rugged, waterproof build capable of submerging up to 10 meters (33 feet) without a separate housing, an innovative dual-microphone system that effectively dampens wind...Read more

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videomaker.com
04/12/2015
GoPro HERO4 Session Review

The GoPro HERO4 Session introduces a compact, symmetrical, cuboidal form factor that drastically changes how the camera can be mounted. Its standout strength is this unique design, which allows for effortless 90-degree rotations within its housing, turning side-mounting onto helmets or car doors into an easy task. Additionally, it is waterproof down to 10 meters out of the box...Read more

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gearlimits.com
07/04/2016
Review: GoPro Hero 4 Session Cubist Minimalism

The GoPro Hero 4 Session is a highly compact, lightweight, and case-free action camera that excels at capturing unique angles due to its sleek design and durable, rubber-like waterproof coating. Tested during a week of snowboarding in the Austrian Alps and mountain biking in the Netherlands, the camera stood out for its low-profile mounting frames and an auto-orientation feature...Read more

S
singletrackworld.com
11/08/2016
Review: GoPro Hero 4 Session

However, the review does touch upon a few minor cons and limitations inherent to the design. Because of its tiny layout, the camera relies on a very small top display, meaning users must toggle settings using a small button on the back rather than a full display screen. The reviewer notes that while the camera shoots high-quality ultrawide footage up to 1440p resolution,...Read more

H
hikinginfinland.com
26/09/2016
GoPro HERO4 Session - Hiking in Finland

The GoPro HERO4 Session is a highly durable, 71-gram cube-shaped action camera praised by Hendrik Morkel for its extreme ease of use and minimalist design. Its standout features include a straightforward user interface and a single-button control system that starts recording video with a single click, or captures timelapses when held down for three seconds. Designed for rugged...Read more

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expertreviews.co.uk
20/03/2018
GoPro Hero4 Session review: Ousted by the Hero 5 Session?

The GoPro Hero4 Session is a compact, cube-shaped action camera that is 50% smaller and 40% lighter than the traditional Hero4 Black, making it highly aerodynamic and comfortable for head-mounting. A major standout feature is its native waterproofing up to 10 metres without needing an external housing, which vastly improves audio quality by allowing the dual-microphone system to...Read more

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geeknetic.es
06/07/2015
GoPro lanza su mini cámara HERO 4 Session

The GoPro Hero 4 Session is a remarkably small, cube-shaped action camera designed to withstand water submersion up to 10 meters without requiring an external protective housing. It is equipped with an 8-megapixel sensor capable of shooting bursts at 10 frames per second, configuring time-lapses, and recording high-quality video at either 1440p at 30 FPS or 1080p at 60 FPS. For...Read more

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T
tomshw.it
15/10/2015
Recensione GoPro Hero4 Session, l'action cam piccola ma potente

The GoPro Hero4 Session is a highly compact, cube-shaped action camera measuring about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) per side and weighing 73 grams. It delivers impressive 1080p video at 60 FPS with sharp details and vibrant, punchy colors straight out of the camera. A standout design feature is its native waterproof rating down to 10 metres without requiring a bulky external housing. Because...Read more

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