GoPro HERO5 Session Review | 96 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£290
  • Avg. price in US: ~$300
  • Video resolution: 4K
  • Battery life: 60 min
  • Waterproof depth: 10 m
  • Electronic image stabilization: yes
  • Maximum 4K frame rate: 30 fps

GoPro HERO5 Session review. Compare 96 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among action cameras and if it is worth buying.

6.7

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%

6.0

Technical Score

20.0%

9.1

User score

Good
6.0

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%

5.3

Video

22.0%

6.0

Photo

14.0%

6.9

Ruggedness & Storage

13.0%

4.4

Battery

11.0%

7.3

Connectivity & Audio

10.0%

7.8

Display & Design

Good
9.1

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
(2153)
amazon
3.9
(98)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(2332)
Amazon_logo.png
1.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

Exceptional
  • 7.5
    Motorcycle riding

    Score components:

    35.0%

    10

    Electronic image stabilization

    30.0%

    7.2

    Video resolution

    20.0%

    1.9

    Battery life

    15.0%

    10

    Waterproof depth

  • 6.9
    Skiing

    Score components:

    30.0%

    10

    Electronic image stabilization

    25.0%

    1.0

    Horizon leveling

    25.0%

    10

    Waterproof depth

    20.0%

    5.5

    Minimum operating temperature

  • 3.3
    Low light

    Score components:

    35.0%

    1.0

    HDR mode

    30.0%

    4.0

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    1.0

    Color depth

    15.0%

    10

    Electronic image stabilization

  • 3.8
    Long videos

    Score components:

    50.0%

    1.9

    Battery life

    20.0%

    1.0

    Removable battery

    15.0%

    10

    Fast charging

    15.0%

    7.4

    Charging time

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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 Hero5 Session is a compact, cube-shaped action camera that records up to 4K video at 30fps and shoots 10MP photos. It features a rugged, waterproof body up to 10 meters without a housing, voice control, one-button operation, and advanced video stabilization. Key pros include its ultra-portable form factor, dual microphone system, and compatibility with standard GoPro mounts. However, it suffers from a non-removable battery, lack of a built-in touchscreen display, and poor low-light performance.

Technical Specifications of GoPro HERO5 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%

5.3

Video

22.0%

6.0

Photo

14.0%

6.9

Ruggedness & Storage

13.0%

4.4

Battery

11.0%

7.3

Connectivity & Audio

10.0%

7.8

Display & Design

6.0
GoPro HERO5 Session has a technical score of 6.05 points, which is lower than 51.2% 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
(2153)
amazon
3.9
(98)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.4
(2332)
Amazon_logo.png
1.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

9.1
GoPro HERO5 Session has a user score of 9.13 points, which is higher than 78.9% 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 HERO5 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%

6.7

Overall score

40.0%

9.0

Price

7.4
GoPro HERO5 Session has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.4 points, which is higher than 57.8% 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

4K
GoPro HERO5 Session records video at 4K, which is higher than that of 36.1% 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

30 fps
GoPro HERO5 Session has a maximum 4K frame rate of 30 fps, which is higher than that of 37.2% of action cameras and equal to that of 26.4% 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

90 fps
GoPro HERO5 Session has a maximum 1080p frame rate of 90 fps, which is higher than that of 58.8% of action cameras and equal to that of 0.7% 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

60 Mbps
GoPro HERO5 Session has a video bitrate of 60 Mbps, which is higher than that of 40.5% of action cameras and equal to that of 13.5% 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 HERO5 Session supports the following video codecs: H.264. Its codec support is more advanced than that of 2.4% of action cameras.
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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

10 MP
GoPro HERO5 Session has a main camera resolution of 10 MP, which is lower than that of 80.3% of action cameras and equal to that of 3.3% 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 HERO5 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

10 MP
GoPro HERO5 Session captures photos at 10 MP, which is lower than 81.6% of action cameras and equal to 2.9% of action cameras.
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

no
GoPro HERO5 Session does not include a touchscreen. 63.1% of action cameras support touchscreen input.
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

N/A
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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 HERO5 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

?
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 HERO5 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.
Bluetooth Low Energy support.
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 HERO5 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

yes
GoPro HERO5 Session features USB Type-C. This feature is present on 41.8% of action cameras.
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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

60 min
GoPro HERO5 Session runs for 60 min per charge, which is shorter than the battery life of 86.6% of action cameras and equal to the battery life of 7.3% 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

1,000 mAh
GoPro HERO5 Session has a battery capacity of 1000 mAh, which is lower than that of 75.2% of action cameras and equal to that of 1.9% 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 HERO5 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

yes
GoPro HERO5 Session supports fast charging. This feature is present on 18.8% of action cameras.
Supported when charging directly with the GoPro Supercharger.
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 HERO5 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 HERO5 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.
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 HERO5 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 HERO5 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 HERO5 Session includes an external memory slot. This feature is present on 95.2% of action cameras.
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GoPro HERO5 Session vs the average action camera

  • 9 m deeper waterproof depth
    GoPro HERO5 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.
    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 HERO5 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
  • Supports fast charging
    GoPro HERO5 Session supports fast charging, the average action camera does not. 19.3% of action cameras support fast charging.
    Supported when charging directly with the GoPro Supercharger.
    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

    GoPro HERO5 Session supports fast charging, the average action camera does not. 19.3% of action cameras support fast charging.
  • Has USB Type-C
    GoPro HERO5 Session has a USB Type-C port, the average action camera does not. 42.2% of action cameras use USB-C ports.
    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

    GoPro HERO5 Session has a USB Type-C port, the average action camera does not. 42.2% of action cameras use USB-C ports.
  • Replaceable lens cover
    GoPro HERO5 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 HERO5 Session has a replaceable lens cover, the average action camera does not. 31.5% of action cameras have a replaceable lens cover.
  • 22 mm narrower
    GoPro HERO5 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 HERO5 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
  • 6.9 mm shorter
    GoPro HERO5 Session is shorter than the average action camera (38.1 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 HERO5 Session is shorter than the average action camera (38.1 mm vs 45 mm). The average action camera has a height of 45 mm.38.1 mm vs 45 mm
  • Supports voice commands
    GoPro HERO5 Session supports voice commands, the average action camera does not. 30.5% of action cameras include voice command functionality.
    What it is: Whether the camera supports spoken voice commands for hands-free control.
    When it matters: When you want to start recording or change modes without taking your hands off the activity.

    Importance: LOW

    GoPro HERO5 Session supports voice commands, the average action camera does not. 30.5% of action cameras include voice command functionality.
  • 30 fps higher 1080p frame rate
    GoPro HERO5 Session has a higher 1080p frame rate than the average action camera (90 fps vs 60 fps). The average action camera reaches 60 fps at 1080p.
    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

    GoPro HERO5 Session has a higher 1080p frame rate than the average action camera (90 fps vs 60 fps). The average action camera reaches 60 fps at 1080p.90 fps vs 60 fps
  • 30 fps higher 1080p frame rate
    GoPro HERO5 Session has a higher 1080p frame rate than the average action camera (90 fps vs 60 fps). The average action camera reaches 60 fps at 1080p.
  • 22 mm narrower
    GoPro HERO5 Session is narrower than the average action camera (38 mm vs 60 mm). The average action camera has a width of 60 mm.
  • 6.9 mm shorter
    GoPro HERO5 Session is shorter than the average action camera (38.1 mm vs 45 mm). The average action camera has a height of 45 mm.
  • Has USB Type-C
    GoPro HERO5 Session has a USB Type-C port, the average action camera does not. 42.2% of action cameras use USB-C ports.
  • Supports voice commands
    GoPro HERO5 Session supports voice commands, the average action camera does not. 30.5% of action cameras include voice command functionality.
  • Supports fast charging
    GoPro HERO5 Session supports fast charging, the average action camera does not. 19.3% of action cameras support fast charging.
  • 9 m deeper waterproof depth
    GoPro HERO5 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.
  • Replaceable lens cover
    GoPro HERO5 Session has a replaceable lens cover, the average action camera does not. 31.5% of action cameras have a replaceable lens cover.
  • Lower video resolution
    GoPro HERO5 Session records at 4K, a lower video resolution than the average action camera (5.3K).
  • Lower sensor size
    GoPro HERO5 Session has sensor size of 1/3.2", lower than the average action camera (1/2.3").
  • 2 MP lower main-camera resolution
    GoPro HERO5 Session has a lower main action camera resolution than the average action camera (10 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera has a resolution of 12 MP.
  • 2 MP lower photo resolution
    GoPro HERO5 Session has a lower photo resolution than the average action camera (10 MP vs 12 MP). The average action camera captures 12 MP photos.
  • No touchscreen
    GoPro HERO5 Session does not have a touchscreen, the average action camera does. 62.5% of action cameras support touchscreen input.
  • 2 older release date
    GoPro HERO5 Session is older than the average action camera (2,016 vs 2,018). The average action camera was released in 2,018.
    Released in October 2016.
  • Older Bluetooth version
    GoPro HERO5 Session uses an older Bluetooth version than the average action camera (4 vs 5.2). The average action camera uses Bluetooth 5.2.
    Bluetooth Low Energy support.
  • 30 min shorter battery life
    GoPro HERO5 Session has shorter battery life than the average action camera (60 min vs 90 min). The average action camera offers 90 min of battery life.
  • 200 mAh less battery capacity
    GoPro HERO5 Session has a lower battery capacity than the average action camera (1,000 mAh vs 1,200 mAh). The average action camera has a battery capacity of 1,200 mAh.
  • No removable battery
    GoPro HERO5 Session does not have a removable battery, while the average action camera does.
  • 5 °C lower max operating temp
    GoPro HERO5 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 HERO5 Session records at 4K, 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 HERO5 Session records at 4K, a lower video resolution than the average action camera (5.3K).4K vs 5.3K
  • Lower sensor size
    GoPro HERO5 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 HERO5 Session has sensor size of 1/3.2", lower than the average action camera (1/2.3").1/3.2" vs 1/2.3"
  • No touchscreen
    GoPro HERO5 Session does not have a touchscreen, the average action camera does. 62.5% of action cameras support touchscreen input.
    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

    GoPro HERO5 Session does not have a touchscreen, the average action camera does. 62.5% of action cameras support touchscreen input.
  • 30 min shorter battery life
    GoPro HERO5 Session has shorter battery life than the average action camera (60 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 HERO5 Session has shorter battery life than the average action camera (60 min vs 90 min). The average action camera offers 90 min of battery life.60 min vs 90 min
  • Older Bluetooth version
    GoPro HERO5 Session uses an older Bluetooth version than the average action camera (4 vs 5.2). The average action camera uses Bluetooth 5.2.
    Bluetooth Low Energy support.
    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 HERO5 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
  • 200 mAh less battery capacity
    GoPro HERO5 Session has a lower battery capacity than the average action camera (1,000 mAh vs 1,200 mAh). The average action camera has a battery capacity of 1,200 mAh.
    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

    GoPro HERO5 Session has a lower battery capacity than the average action camera (1,000 mAh vs 1,200 mAh). The average action camera has a battery capacity of 1,200 mAh.1000 mAh vs 1200 mAh
  • No removable battery
    GoPro HERO5 Session does not have a removable battery, while the average action camera does.
    What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
    When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

    Importance: LOW

    GoPro HERO5 Session does not have a removable battery, while the average action camera does.
  • 5 °C lower max operating temp
    GoPro HERO5 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.
    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

    GoPro HERO5 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.35 °C vs 40 °C

Graphic comparison of GoPro HERO5 Session and

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Third-party reviews

(Reviews last updated: July 2026)

What customers like about GoPro HERO5 Session?

  • Ultra-compact and lightweight cube design makes it highly portable and easy to mount in tight spaces.
  • Native water resistance up to 10 metres (33 feet) without requiring a bulky external housing.
  • Sharp and vibrant 4K video recording at 30 frames per second.
  • Convenient hands-free operation via responsive voice control commands.
  • Simple, user-friendly interface using a quick one-button recording system.
  • Built-in electronic video stabilization significantly reduces shaky footage.
  • Strong ecosystem support with seamless mobile pairing through the GoPro smartphone app for live view and settings adjustments.

What customers dislike about GoPro HERO5 Session?

  • Short overall battery life that drains quickly, especially when recording in high resolutions like 4K.
  • Integrated, non-removable battery design means users cannot swap in a fresh spare while out in the field.
  • Lack of a built-in LCD touchscreen or viewfinder makes framing shots difficult without using a smartphone.
  • Mediocre low-light performance resulting in noticeable visual noise and grain in dark environments.
  • Audio quality can be degraded by aggressive automatic wind-noise reduction filters.
  • Fewer frame rate options and limited shooting modes compared to the larger Hero5 Black flagship model.
  • Absence of advanced photography features such as built-in GPS, RAW image format, and Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) support.

Expert reviews

P
pcmag.com
13/10/2016

The GoPro Hero5 Session is a 1.5-inch cube action camera offering 4K video at 30fps, 10-meter waterproofing without a case, and one-button operation. It features electronic stabilization, voice control, and USB-C connectivity, making it a capable mid-range choice. The camera lacks a built-in screen, relying on app pairing, and features a non-removable 1,000mAh battery, limiting...Read more

V
videomaker.com
05/12/2016

The GoPro HERO5 Session is a compact, rugged action camera that brings significant improvements over its predecessor, the HERO4 Session, by integrating 4K resolution at 30fps and useful smart features like responsive voice control, digital image stabilization, and automatic wind reduction. In real-world testing, it proved highly durable and portable, easily fitting into gear bags,...Read more

T
trustedreviews.com
16/12/2016

The GoPro Hero 5 Session offers a significant upgrade over its predecessor, delivering 4K video at 30fps with excellent color and sharpness in a 1.5-inch, waterproof, and voice-controlled design. Key features highlighted by Trusted Reviews include electronic image stabilization (EIS) and a USB Type-C port for fast charging. However, the camera's 1,000mAh battery is non-removable and...Read more

C
cnet.com
11/03/2017

The GoPro Hero5 Session is a significant upgrade over its predecessor, offering high-end features like 4K-resolution video, voice control, and electronic image stabilization (available up to 1080p at 60fps) within its signature tiny, cube-shaped design. Priced at $300 (£300 / AU$460), this rugged action camera is waterproof up to 10 meters (33 feet) without a separate housing and...Read more

A
ambmag.com.au
17/04/2017

The GoPro Hero5 Session marks a substantial internal upgrade over its predecessor, keeping the ultra-compact, 73-gram square form factor that fits within the footprint of a 50-cent coin. Operating on a simple two-button control system, this waterproof-without-a-case shooter cedes some advanced high-resolution shooting modes to the Hero5 Black, positioning itself as a middle-tier...Read more

B
bikereview.com.au
14/12/2017

The GoPro Hero5 Session is a top-of-the-line, ultra-compact, and rugged action camera that delivers exceptional video and audio quality with crisp, sharp 1080p and 4K recording options. It is highly praised for its standard waterproofing, robust design that requires no protective case, and an automatic orientation-flipping feature if mounted upside down. It provides diverse...Read more

W
wired.com
06/10/2016

The WIRED review highlights the GoPro Hero5 Black and Session as a significant advancement, specifically for integrating built-in waterproofing up to 33 feet. The Hero5 Black boasts a 2-inch touchscreen, GPS, and 12-megapixel RAW images, though it suffers from a occasionally unresponsive screen and limited battery life. The smaller Hero5 Session is praised for its compact, cube...Read more

B
bikeradar.com
03/09/2017

The GoPro Hero 5 Session delivers impressive 4K video quality at 30fps and features convenient voice control, electronic image stabilization, and a lightweight 72g design. It excels as a simple, "fit-and-forget" action camera ideal for short races when mounted to a helmet or chest harness. Major pros include its crisp image resolution, excellent exposure handling, small form factor,...Read more

E
expertreviews.co.uk
23/10/2020

The GoPro Hero 5 Session is a compact, ultra-portable action camera weighing just 74g with a 38 x 38mm cube footprint. It provides a significant upgrade over its predecessor by adding 4K video recording at 30fps with a higher 60Mbits/sec bit rate, yielding sharp, detailed footage. Standout pros include native waterproofing up to 10 metres without needing an external case, an...Read more

D
dcrainmaker.com
05/10/2016

Summary The GoPro Hero5 Black represents a significant step forward for the action camera line, introducing a fully waterproof body down to 10 metres without needing an external case, alongside a heavily redesigned and more intuitive rear touchscreen menu system. It maintains top-tier video capabilities like 4K recording at 30fps and introduces useful pro-level tools, including...Read more

U
unsponsored.co.uk
30/10/2016

The GoPro Hero5 Session review from Unsponsored details a highly capable, ultra-compact action camera that significantly improves upon its predecessor. Key pros include its native waterproofing up to 10 meters without needing an external housing, a robust cube form factor perfect for helmet mounting, and new high-end internal upgrades. The reviewer strongly praises the addition of...Read more

T
techradar.com
16/10/2018

The GoPro Hero5 Session is a compact, cube-shaped action camera that balances high-end performance with extreme portability. Functioning as a scaled-down version of the Hero5 Black, it shoots crisp 4K video at 30fps and captures 10MP still images. Key strengths include its lightweight, robust design, which is waterproof up to 10 metres without an external case, alongside features...Read more

M
mashable.com
08/10/2016

The GoPro Hero 5 Black ($399) and Hero 5 Session ($299) represent a strategic shift toward making visual content creation accessible to everyday consumers through an integrated hardware and software ecosystem. Both models are waterproof up to 33 feet without a separate housing, feature built-in electronic image stabilization for smoother footage, and introduce responsive voice...Read more

C
chip.de
11/10/2016

The GoPro Hero5 Session is a highly compact, cube-shaped action camera that weighs only 77 grams and measures roughly 2.5 centimeters per side. Despite its small footprint, it delivers strong, high-quality performance that matches its larger sibling, the Hero5 Black, while costing about 100 Euros less. Key advantages highlighted in the review include its exceptionally sharp Ultra-HD...Read more

C
chip.de
11/10/2016

The GoPro Hero 5 Session is a highly capable, cube-shaped action camera that delivers excellent performance despite its compact 2.5-centimeter size and lightweight 77-gram build. Tech-wise, it matches the larger GoPro Hero 5 Black by capturing sharp, detailed Ultra HD videos and 10-megapixel photos. Key advantages include its robust build, which is natively waterproof up to a depth...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
10/01/2017

The GoPro Hero5 Session is a compact, cube-shaped action camera that represents a major upgrade over its predecessor, the Hero4 Session, by integrating 4K/UHD video and electronic image stabilisation. It retains its highly practical, rugged design that is waterproof up to 10 metres without requiring an external housing. Unlike the older model, users can now adjust key settings—such...Read more

2
26in.fr
01/03/2026

The GoPro Hero5 Session is a compact, lightweight action camera that serves as a slightly upgraded successor to the Hero 4 Session, retaining an identical external design, an integrated non-removable battery with roughly 1.5 hours of life, and a waterproof rating of up to 10 meters without an extra housing. It features an ergonomic, screen-free layout that instead utilizes a...Read more

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