Unveiled: Gopro Hero 3 Vs Session 4 – Which Action Camera Reigns Supreme?

Are you an adventure enthusiast looking for the perfect action camera to capture your thrilling experiences? The GoPro Hero 3 and Session 4 are two popular options that offer excellent image quality, durability, and versatility. But which one is the better choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive into the key differences between the GoPro Hero 3 and Session 4 to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build

The GoPro Hero 3 and Session 4 feature distinct designs. The Hero 3 has a more traditional action camera form factor, with a rectangular body and a lens that protrudes slightly. It’s also larger and heavier than the Session 4, making it less suitable for mounting in tight spaces or on helmets.

The Session 4, on the other hand, has a compact, cube-shaped design that’s incredibly portable and easy to mount. It’s also waterproof without a housing, making it ideal for water sports and activities in wet environments.

Image Quality

Both the GoPro Hero 3 and Session 4 offer impressive image quality, but there are some notable differences. The Hero 3 has a 12-megapixel sensor that can capture still images at a resolution of 4000 x 3000 pixels. It also supports video recording at various resolutions and frame rates, including 1080p at 30fps, 720p at 60fps, and WVGA at 120fps.

The Session 4 has a 10-megapixel sensor that can capture still images at a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. It also supports video recording at 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels) at 30fps, 2.7K (2704 x 1520 pixels) at 60fps, and 1080p at 120fps.

In terms of overall image quality, the Session 4 has a slight edge over the Hero 3 due to its higher resolution sensor and improved video stabilization. However, both cameras produce stunning footage that’s perfect for capturing action-packed moments.

Features and Functionality

The GoPro Hero 3 and Session 4 come with a range of features and functionalities to enhance your shooting experience. Both cameras offer built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to control them remotely with your smartphone or tablet. They also have a variety of shooting modes, including time-lapse, burst mode, and night lapse, to help you capture creative and dynamic shots.

Additionally, the Hero 3 features a removable battery, which gives you the flexibility to carry spare batteries for extended shooting sessions. The Session 4, on the other hand, has a built-in battery that can be charged via a USB port.

Accessories and Compatibility

Both the GoPro Hero 3 and Session 4 have a wide range of accessories available, including mounts, cases, and filters. However, the Hero 3 has a more extensive selection of accessories due to its longer presence on the market. This means you’ll have more options for customizing your camera and adapting it to different shooting scenarios.

In terms of compatibility, the Hero 3 is compatible with a wider range of GoPro mounts and accessories. The Session 4, on the other hand, has a unique design that requires specific mounts and accessories.

Price and Availability

The GoPro Hero 3 and Session 4 are available at different price points. The Hero 3 is typically more affordable than the Session 4, making it a great option for budget-conscious buyers. However, the Session 4 offers better image quality, a more compact design, and improved features, which may justify the higher price tag for some users.

Which One Should You Choose?

The GoPro Hero 3 and Session 4 are both excellent action cameras that offer a range of features and capabilities. The Hero 3 is a more affordable option with a removable battery and a wide range of accessories. The Session 4 has a more compact design, better image quality, and improved features, but it’s more expensive and has a limited selection of accessories.

Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you’re looking for an affordable action camera with a wide range of accessories, the GoPro Hero 3 is a great option. If you’re willing to pay more for better image quality, a more compact design, and improved features, the GoPro Session 4 is the way to go.

Beyond the Comparison: Making the Right Choice

To help you make an informed decision, here are a few additional factors to consider when choosing between the GoPro Hero 3 and Session 4:

• Intended Use: Think about the activities you plan to use the action camera for. If you’re primarily interested in capturing action sports or extreme activities, the Session 4’s compact design and improved stabilization may be more suitable. If you’re looking for a more versatile camera for a wider range of activities, the Hero 3 may be a better choice.

• Budget: Consider your budget and how much you’re willing to spend on an action camera. The Hero 3 is typically more affordable than the Session 4, but it may not offer the same level of features and performance.

• Accessories and Compatibility: If you already have a collection of GoPro accessories, consider the compatibility of the Hero 3 and Session 4 with your existing gear. The Hero 3 has a wider range of compatible accessories, while the Session 4 requires specific mounts and accessories.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q1: Which camera has better image quality, the GoPro Hero 3 or Session 4?

A1: The GoPro Session 4 has better image quality due to its higher resolution sensor and improved video stabilization.

Q2: Which camera is more compact and portable, the GoPro Hero 3 or Session 4?

A2: The GoPro Session 4 is more compact and portable due to its cube-shaped design.

Q3: Which camera has a longer battery life, the GoPro Hero 3 or Session 4?

A3: The GoPro Hero 3 has a longer battery life due to its removable battery.