If you’re a parent with an adventurous child, giving them a GoPro camera can impact their life dramatically. However, I understand how difficult it can be to choose the right GoPro camera for your kid since so many options exist.
Hi, my name is Larry. Although I don’t have any children, I’ve been filming GoPro content for nearly 10 years and have lots of experience letting my nieces and nephews play with my GoPro cameras.
In today’s guide, I picked out the five best GoPro models for kids based on what I’ve learned filming action adventures with children over the past decade. I’ll also answer a few related questions and explain what makes the best GoPro for kids.
So if you’re ready to give your child the best gift possible, let’s jump right in!
Contents
Key Takeaways
- The newer GoPro models are better options for kids because they have LCD touchscreens and built-in image stabilization technology.
- Ease of use and battery life are two of the most important factors when choosing the best GoPro for kids.
- The GoPro HERO10 Black is the best overall GoPro for kids because it has the best recording capabilities and battery life.
- The GoPro HERO7 Black is an excellent budget-friendly option for kids.
What’s a good GoPro for a kid?
I recommend the HERO9 Black or HERO10 Black for kids because they have the largest LCD touchscreens out of every GoPro camera model. Furthermore, these cameras have the best built-in image stabilization, which is important since children don’t have the best camera stabilization skills. These cameras are also waterproof down to 33 feet or 10 meters.
Which is the best GoPro on a budget?
The best budget-friendly GoPros for children are the GoPro HERO7 Black and HERO7 White. In terms of older generation GoPro cameras, this is as far back as I’d go. This is because the HERO7 introduced a lot of new recording capabilities and camera features that make it a much more worthwhile investment than even older GoPros like the HERO6 Black.
Is there a kids’ version of a GoPro?
Unfortunately, there is no kid’s version of a GoPro. However, GoPros are already compact and lightweight devices that are easy to learn and operate. So, you shouldn’t have any issues teaching your child how to use the camera. I recommend a newer GoPro with an LCD touchscreen to make it easier for your kid to operate the GoPro camera.
Can a kid use a GoPro?
Kids can easily use GoPros since the cameras themselves are small, durable, and intuitive. Depending on your child’s age, you may need to learn how to use the camera yourself before teaching them. However, your kid can also jump into YouTube and watch many of the dozens of helpful tutorials you can find.
What Makes the Best GoPro for Kids
Although I don’t have children, I know every parent wants to capture priceless moments of their children’s life. Furthermore, I understand that giving your kid a fancy DSLR or mirrorless camera can be a recipe for disaster. The reasons why GoPros are great for kids are because they’re easy to use, small, and durable.
However, let’s take a closer look at each crucial factor to consider when purchasing a new GoPro camera for your kid.
- Recording Features: Although your child probably doesn’t need or even care about the video and picture resolutions, you may want to provide your kid with the best recording capabilities possible. In this case, I recommend newer GoPro cameras like the HERO10 Black since it has the best recording features out of every GoPro.
- Durability: When giving a camera to your kids, you must ensure it can handle accidents. Drops, shakes, and bumps are going to happen with children. Therefore, a strong shell and premium construction are both vital. Luckily, all GoPro cameras are built with quality materials and designed to withstand impacts.
- Battery Life: Kids have a hard time remembering to turn things off. As such, you want to find a camera with solid battery life. That way, there will be plenty of juice for the exciting moments, even if your kids leave the camera recording in the car. Newer GoPro cameras offer bigger and better batteries.
- Easy of Use: Some cameras require you to be a rocket scientist to use them. When it comes to children, simpler is always better. Not only will that make it much easier for them to capture video, but it also makes using the device much less frustrating.
Top 5 Best GoPros for Kids
Now that you understand what a child needs in their GoPro camera let’s dive into my list of the top 5 recommendations. I created this list based on feedback I received from my many nieces, nephews, and younger cousins. I’ve taken them on dozens of outdoor adventures, and seeing the look in their eyes when I show them the edited video is beyond precious.
So, here we go!
1. GoPro HERO10 Black (Best Overall)
- Max Video Resolution: 5.3K at 60fps
- Max Photo Resolution: 23MP (Megapixels)
- Electronic Image Stabilization: HyperSmooth 4.0
- Screen Size: 2.27 inches
- Weight: 5.6 ounces or 158 grams
The GoPro HERO10 Black is the best overall action camera in the entire market. Since action cameras are made for everyone, the HERO10 Black is also the best GoPro for kids. This camera is packed with top-notch technology and camera features. Some notable highlights include the GP2 processor and HyperSmooth 4.0.
Let’s talk about the GP2 camera processor first. This is the only camera with the all-new GP2 processor. Since a camera’s processor is ultimately its engine, the GP2 processor offers better video resolutions and camera quality. Furthermore, it makes the camera faster and easier to use since everything is more responsive.
In addition, this camera features HyperSmooth 4.0 Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS). This is GoPro’s innovative image stabilization that automatically turns shaky video footage into smooth and crystal clear masterpieces. It’s so good that your children may think they are professional videographers because of how great the footage turns out.
The HERO10 Black is waterproof down to 33 feet or 10 meters. Moreover, it comes with a rear and front LCD touchscreen. In terms of recording capabilities, your child can record up to 5.3K video resolution at 60fps. Your kid can also snap amazing photos with the 23MP camera lens.
However, it’s essential to discuss any notable drawbacks of this camera. The only downside to this camera is that it’s relatively more expensive than the other options on today’s list. This is because it’s the newest GoPro camera model with exclusive technology and camera features. Nonetheless, the slight price difference is absolutely worth it.
My Verdict: The GoPro HERO10 Black is the best overall GoPro for kids because it has the biggest LCD touchscreen, the best battery, and the best camera quality. Therefore, if budget is no issue, you shouldn’t look further than the HERO10 Black.
2. GoPro HERO9 Black (Best Runner-Up)
- Max Video Resolution: 5K at 30fps
- Max Photo Resolution: 20MP
- Electronic Image Stabilization: HyperSmooth 3.0
- Screen Size: 2.27 inches
- Weight: 5.2 ounces or 147 grams
The GoPro HERO9 Black is essentially the younger twin sibling of the HERO10 Black. This is because it features the same build quality and screen size but slightly less powerful recording settings and camera features. This is because the HERO9 Black features the older GP1 camera processor and HyperSmooth 3.0.
This camera can record up to 5K at 30fps, which is an exceptionally high-quality video resolution. In addition, HyperSmooth 3.0 offers incredible video stabilization if your kid is running around or filming action sports like biking, snowboarding, or scuba diving.
I let my younger nephew, who’s seven years old, use my GoPro HERO9 Black to play with, and he recorded some fantastic clips despite never using a camera before. Again, this showcases how easy GoPro cameras are to use. Anyone can pick one up and begin recording great content without any background experience.
Compared to older GoPro cameras, the HERO9 Black offers a bigger LCD touchscreen, a longer-lasting battery, and better camera settings. However, the primary downside to this camera is that it’s not the HERO10 Black. Nonetheless, the HERO9 Black offers more than enough camera power for children.
My Verdict: The HERO9 Black is an excellent option for children because it’s more affordable than the HERO10 and offers nearly equal camera features and recording capabilities. This is the best option if you don’t want to shell out top-dollar for the HERO but want to give your kid an amazing action camera.
3. GoPro HERO8 Black (Best Value)
- Max Video Resolution: 4K at 60fps
- Max Photo Resolution: 12MP
- Electronic Image Stabilization: HyperSmooth 2.0
- Screen Size: 2.0 inches
- Weight: 4.4 ounces or 126 grams
The GoPro HERO8 Black is another tough and waterproof GoPro camera, just like the two options listed above. This camera offers 4K video resolution at 60fps and 12MP quality photographs. The main reason why it’s better than the HERO7 Black is that it has HyperSmooth 2.0 electronic image stabilization.
Since your child most likely won’t focus on technique while recording, HyperSmooth automatically stabilizes shaky footage. This is key for kids since they are more prone to recording in a more carefree manner. Although GoPro released the HERO8 Black in 2019, it’s still one of the most high-quality action cameras on the market.
The HERO8 Black also offers an extensive range of video resolutions. You can record 4K wide or 4K linear at 60fps, 2.7K at 120fps, 1080p at 240fps, and much more. Therefore, your child has endless settings and options to play with.
Furthermore, the HERO8 Black is smaller and more lightweight than the HERO9 or HERO10. However, the smaller build size carries some drawbacks too. The HERO8 has a slightly smaller LCD touchscreen and battery than the two newer HERO line cameras. Nonetheless, the LCD screen and battery should be more than sufficient for most children.
Since it’s a relatively lightweight camera compared to other action cameras, your child shouldn’t have any issues carrying it around. This camera is incredibly portable and comfortable to mount to your child’s body or helmet.
My Verdict: The HERO8 Black is the best value GoPro for kids because it carries impressive recording capabilities at a reasonable price point. However, the screen is slightly smaller than the HERO9 and HERO10.
4. GoPro HERO7 Black (Best Budget)
- Max Video Resolution: 4K at 60fps
- Max Photo Resolution: 12MP
- Electronic Image Stabilization: HyperSmooth 1.0
- Screen Size: 2.0 inches
- Weight: 4.1 ounces 116 grams
The GoPro HERO7 Black has all the camera features you need in a robust yet affordable GoPro for kids. Most notably, this camera can record ultra HD 4K videos at 60fps. This video resolution captures incredibly detailed footage and makes for incredible memories when you watch the videos back in the future.
In terms of build quality, the HERO7 Black is lightweight, compact, and durable. It has a 2-inch LCD touchscreen your kid can use to view videos, delete clips, and change video settings. Furthermore, this camera features HyperSmooth 1.0, which is the first iteration of GoPro’s advanced image stabilization technology.
The HERO7 Black also features live streaming capabilities, 8x slo-mo, HDR recording, and 1080p video resolution at 240 fps. Compared to even older GoPro cameras, the HERO7 Black has better video quality, photo quality, audio performance, and mic performance.
So, if you want to give your child one of the best action cameras on the market at an affordable price range, the HERO7 Black is the perfect pick. However, it’s important to remember that there are better options available listed above. For this reason, you should consider your child’s age and videography level before committing to the HERO7 Black.
My Verdict: The HERO7 Black is the best budget GoPro camera for kids because it’s cheaper than the options listed above but has similar camera features to the HERO8 Black. The main difference between the HERO7 Black and HERO8 Black is that the HERO8 has HyperSmooth 2.0 image stabilization.
5. GoPro HERO7 White (Best Lightweight)
- Max Video Resolution: 1440p at 60fps
- Max Photo Resolution: 10MP
- Electronic Image Stabilization: Built-in stabilization
- Screen Size: 2.0 inches
- Weight: 3.39 ounces or 94.4 grams
The GoPro HERO7 White was the entry-level model in GoPro’s HERO7 lineup. Although it’s discontinued at this point, it’s still worth considering if you want to give your child a lightweight, durable, and waterproof action camera. In essence, the HERO7 White is a robust, beginner-friendly action camera that utilizes GoPro’s incredible software and build quality.
Furthermore, the main difference between this camera and the HERO7 Black is that the HERO7 White does not have HyperSmooth Electronic Image Stabilization, 4K video, TimeWarp lapses, live streaming capabilities, and GPS.
On the other hand, the HERO7 White does offer acceptable built-in electronic image stabilization, slo-mo video, and compatibility with the GoPro Quik mobile app. Your kid can use the mobile app to transfer videos from the GoPro to a smartphone. Then, your kid can edit the videos, add music, and share it with other friends and family members.
The HERO7 White offers two recording resolutions: standard 1080p or 1440p. Therefore, it doesn’t have the extensive recording resolutions offered by other GoPro cameras. Nonetheless, this means the GoPro is easier to operate for kids since there are fewer choices involved. Therefore, this is an excellent option if you want a reliable, budget-friendly action camera.
My Verdict: The HERO7 Black is an excellent option for first-time videographers such as your child. Although it doesn’t have top-notch recording capabilities, it offers the classic GoPro durability and compactness.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully, you’ve found the perfect GoPro for your child by now. Not only is it a fun toy, but it also allows them to record memories they’ll have forever. I promise your kid will adore and become obsessed with any of the five cameras listed above. Simply pick the one that makes the most sense for you, your child, and your budget.
If you want the best of the best, you can’t go wrong with the HERO10 Black. However, the HERO7 Black is the most suitable option if you have a strict budget. Furthermore, you may need to purchase some additional GoPro mounts and accessories so your kid can have the best experience possible. Of course, these accessories depend on what type of content they film.
But now I’d love to hear from you. Which GoPro from today’s list caught your eye? Does your kid have experience filming with cameras? Do you have any further questions about GoPros? Let me know by dropping a comment down below!
