Skip to main content

GoPro’s new Hero3+ features smaller, lighter design, and improved optics and performance

gopro announces new hero3 plus hero3plus 1
Image used with permission by copyright holder

GoPro today announced an updated version of its Hero3 series of POV cams. As if they weren’t small to begin with, the Hero3+ camera is now even smaller and lighter than its predecessor by up to 20 percent, and the battery life has been improved by up to 30 percent. In addition, GoPro also came out with new mounting accessories, including a chest harness for kids, head strap with quick clip, and a flexible tripod and clamp.

The new Hero3+ (right) is noticeably smaller than the previous generation (left).
The new Hero3+ (right) is noticeably smaller than the previous generation (left). Image used with permission by copyright holder

The Hero3+ pretty much replaces the Hero3, although the Hero3 is still available in a white edition for $200 (although that model is also said to be smaller). Specs wise, the Hero3+ cameras mirror some of the previous generation’s features (as well as the look and feel), but GoPro says the flagship Black Edition features a new lens (33 percent increase in image sharpness and 2x reduction in imaging artifacts), better audio capture, and low-light performance (Auto Low Light mode), plus a SuperView (16:9) wide-angle mode and 4x faster wireless connectivity. The Black Edition, like its predecessor, can record up to 4K resolution at 15 frames per second (fps). The Silver Edition also has better image processing, wireless connectivity, and audio capture, and can record video at Full HD 1080p at 60 fps.

Check out the video, shot entirely with the Hero3+.

Les Shu
Former Digital Trends Contributor
I am formerly a senior editor at Digital Trends. I bring with me more than a decade of tech and lifestyle journalism…
The 4 best GoPro alternatives in 2024
campark act74 action camera amazon deal

While the GoPro series of action cameras are some of the best in the business, in particular, the GoPro Hero 11, they can get exceedingly expensive, especially for those who don't really need the fanciest of features that the GoPros provide. Luckily, there are a lot of other great options, including some really cheap action cameras that don't really lose a lot on what you'd normally get with a GoPro, which is why we've collected our four favorite ones below. We've included some direct alternatives, as well as some more compact and vlogging-focused options as well, just to make sure you find exactly what you're looking for.
The Best GoPro Alternatives in 2024

Buy the  if you want the best overall GoPro alternative
Buy the  if you want the best GoPro alternative for vlogging
Buy the  if you want the best budget GoPro alternative
Buy the  if you want the best budget GoPro alternative

Read more
GoPro HERO12 bundle gets a $50 discount
GoPro HERO12 offers waterproof use.

Best Buy has the best GoPro deal with $50 off the . The price has dropped from $450 to $400 for a limited time. We haven’t seen this price since December holiday sales when we featured the best GoPro deals. Even better? You get a free item with your purchase. The free Shutterfly 8x8 Photo Book is available without charge to enhance your GoPro experience.

Why you should buy the GoPro HERO12
This all-in-one bundle features everything you need to get started with your GoPro HERO12. It comes with its own 50-in-1 Action Camera Accessory Kit that includes extras like a suction cup, floating handle grip, wrist strap, and bicycle handlebar. Also included is one of the best micro SD cards, the Extreme Pro 64GB microSDXC Card, for expanded storage.

Read more
GoPro unveils its latest action camera, the Hero 12 Black
GoPro's Hero 12 Black action camera.

GoPro: Introducing HERO12 Black | Everything You Need to Know

GoPro is back with the latest iteration of its popular action camera. The new GoPro Hero 12 Black is the kind of solid piece of kit we’ve come to expect from a company that’s been in the game for years. That’s actually created a bit of a problem for GoPro, with many customers happy to hang onto their current model rather than upgrade. So it'll be hoping the latest version will be attractive enough to prompt a wave of purchases among current owners, while at the same time attracting a bunch of first-time buyers, too.

Read more