Can you vlog with a GoPro?

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Vloggen met een GoPro

Want to start vlogging, but still unsure about the right camera? The selection is enormous, and prices vary considerably. A GoPro seems like an affordable and accessible option at first glance. But is vlogging with a GoPro actually useful? The short answer is: yes, it's definitely possible, but not in every situation. Sometimes a GoPro is ideal, while other times a different camera is more suitable. In this blog post, we'll outline the pros and cons and show you in which situations a GoPro is and isn't suitable for vlogging.

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Which GoPro is best for vlogging?

More than thirteen different GoPro models have now been released. But which one is best suited for vlogging? Generally, you can assume that the latest version performs best for daily vlogs. Currently, that's the GoPro Hero 13 , and the GoPro Hero 14 is expected in September 2025. Keep in mind, however, that the latest model is always the most expensive.

Are you on a tighter budget? Then it's wise to consider a model from a year ago. It's often still readily available and much more affordable, while still offering nearly the same features. Older models tend to disappear from stores faster.

There's also the GoPro HERO (budget version) . This version lacks built-in image stabilization, for example, but it can still be a great choice if you want to start vlogging inexpensively.

Finally, GoPro has the GoPro Max : a dedicated 360-degree camera. Perfect for capturing unique footage or creating creative video projects.

Benefits of vlogging with a GoPro

Compact

A GoPro is relatively small compared to other video cameras. This is ideal when you're traveling or simply don't want to lug a heavy camera around. The GoPro Hero 13, for example, is only 7.2 cm wide, 5 cm high, and 3.3 cm deep, and weighs just 86 grams. This means you can even carry the camera in your pocket.

Waterproof & shockproof

The GoPro Hero 13 is naturally waterproof up to 10 meters. Ideal for vlogging while swimming, snorkeling, or even diving. You don't have to worry about your camera getting wet; GoPros are specifically designed for this.

Plus, they're built to withstand a few knocks. A fall from a table or a minor accident? Your GoPro will likely survive. It's precisely this combination of waterproofing and durability that makes the GoPro so suitable for adventurous vloggers who want to take their camera everywhere. For added security, you can opt for a waterproof housing or protective case .

Built-in stabilization

Because the GoPro was developed as an action camera, it has excellent built-in stabilization. This ensures smooth, stable footage at all times, even when you're running, walking, or mountain biking. This is beneficial for the viewer, as shaky footage can appear very dynamic.

Disadvantages of vlogging with a GoPro

There are also some drawbacks to vlogging with a GoPro, such as the audio quality, screen size, and limited zoom function.

Sound quality

GoPro's built-in microphone is very poor. If you try to record yourself talking during your vlog, the sound will sound shrill. Furthermore, the GoPro picks up a lot of wind noise and other ambient sounds. You can solve this by buying a GoPro Media Mod or an official microphone adapter. These are relatively expensive, however. The Media Mod costs €100 and the adapter costs €70. It's also not possible to use a third-party Media Mod or adapter; they simply don't work. Once you have a Media Mod or adapter, you can connect all kinds of microphones to it that are suitable for your type of vlog.

Limited zoom

The GoPro doesn't have a moving lens for zooming. This means it's purely digital zoom. Zooming doesn't reveal any extra detail; it simply makes the pixels larger. This results in a loss of quality when you zoom in. This is to ensure the camera remains compact and waterproof.

Small screen

Because the GoPro is very compact, the screen is also relatively small. This can sometimes make it difficult to clearly see what's within your frame. Fortunately, the GoPro has a wide field of view, so you can often get your subject in frame. But if you want to try a specific angle, that can be more difficult.

GoPro compared to a vlogging camera

When comparing the GoPro Hero 13 Black to one of the most popular vlogging cameras, the Sony ZV-1, the ZV-1 has better image quality, a better zoom and a more convenient and larger display.

So, you can shoot more professional footage with the Sony ZV-1. However, the difference isn't huge, and the untrained eye will barely notice it. On the other hand, the GoPro is much more versatile: it's waterproof, has excellent stabilization, and can withstand a few knocks.

The GoPro is also considerably cheaper. The ZV-1 costs €650, while the GoPro Hero 13 is available starting at €349.

Conclusion

The GoPro is absolutely perfect for vlogging. It shoots razor-sharp footage and is ideal for capturing adventurous moments, such as travel and outdoor activities. However, there are situations where a traditional vlogging camera, like the Sony ZV-1 , is more effective, especially when it comes to image quality and ease of use.

So the choice depends on the type of vlogs you want to make. If you're primarily focused on urban environments or indoor footage, the ZV-1 might be worth the investment, even if it costs around €300 more. If you're working on a tighter budget or looking for a versatile camera that can withstand water and impact, the GoPro is a very strong option.

In short: choose the camera that best suits your style, environment and budget – that way you get the most out of your vlogs.

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