Introducing the GoPro Hero 10
The GoPro Hero 10 Black is the latest action camera release from GoPro in 2021. As the flagship model in the GoPro lineup, the Hero 10 represents the most advanced and capable camera that GoPro offers. Some of the key features and capabilities of the Hero 10 Black include:
The Hero 10 Black is powered by GoPro’s latest proprietary processor called the GP2, which enables 5.3K video recording at up to 60fps, 23MP photos, improved low-light performance, and next-level HyperSmooth 4.0 video stabilization. It has a new hydrophobic lens cover to repel water, and a larger rear touch display compared to previous models. The Hero 10 is rugged and waterproof down to 33 feet without a housing.
Other highlights of the GoPro Hero 10 include live streaming and webcam capabilities via the GoPro Quik app, 8x slo-mo for 1080p footage, night lapse video, enhanced time lapse features like scheduled captures, and cloud connectivity for accessing content remotely. It supports additional mods like the Max Lens mod and Media mod for expanding its capabilities.
Overall, the Hero 10 provides significant improvements in image quality, video performance, intuitive touch controls and ease of use compared to prior GoPro cameras. It represents the most advanced GoPro model available as of 2021.
SD Card Compatibility
SD cards are removable storage devices used to save photos, videos, and other data. They are commonly used with consumer electronics like cameras, smartphones, and other devices.
The GoPro Hero 10 is compatible with microSDXC and microSDHC memory cards up to 1TB in capacity. According to GoPro, the Hero 10 works best with name brand SD cards that have a Video Speed Class rating of V30 or UHS-I or UHS-II ratings [1]. These types of SD cards offer fast enough read and write speeds to support the high bandwidth data of 5K video recording.
For most users, GoPro recommends using SD cards in the 64GB to 256GB range which provide a good balance of price, storage capacity, and performance. A 128GB or 256GB card is ideal for shooters who record a lot of 5K/4K video. Lower capacity cards like 32GB may fill up too quickly.
Top picks for GoPro Hero 10 SD cards include:
- SanDisk Extreme 128GB V30 A2
- Samsung EVO Select 256GB U3 V30
- Lexar Professional 1TB V60
Using fast, high quality SD cards from a reputable brand ensures stable performance when shooting and transferring high resolution, high bitrate footage on the GoPro Hero 10. Cheaper, slower cards are more prone to corruption issues or dropping frames.
SD Cards Included with the GoPro Hero 10
The GoPro Hero 10 action camera does not come with an SD card included. There are a couple reasons why GoPro does not include SD cards with their cameras:
First, not including an SD card allows GoPro to offer lower base prices for their cameras. SD cards add cost, so leaving them out makes the GoPro Hero 10 more affordable as a standalone camera.
Second, allowing customers to purchase their own SD card gives more flexibility. Power users can opt for a high capacity or high speed SD card to match their particular recording needs. Beginners can start with a more basic SD card and upgrade later as they require more storage or transfer speed.
While inconvenient for those expecting an included SD card, GoPro has opted to make the SD card an optional accessory. This strategy helps broaden accessibility to their latest action camera through lower prices, while still giving advanced users the flexibility to customize their storage capabilities.
Buying an SD Card for the GoPro Hero 10
When buying an SD card for the GoPro Hero 10, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Storage capacity – The Hero 10 can support SD cards up to 1TB. Cards with higher capacity allow you to shoot more video and photos before needing to offload files. Aims for at least 32GB.
- Speed rating – Look for cards rated UHS-3, V30, or higher. These ratings indicate the card can sustain high write speeds needed for high-res video.
- Brand – Stick with major brands like SanDisk, Lexar, or Samsung for reliability. Avoid cheap generic cards.
Specific SD card models recommended for the GoPro Hero 10 include:
- SanDisk Extreme V30 – Available in 32GB to 1TB capacities.
- Lexar Professional 1000x – Good value, comes in capacities up to 512GB.
- Samsung EVO Select – Budget-friendly option, capacities from 32GB to 256GB.
You can buy SD cards from most major electronics retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, Target, Walmart, etc. Prices range from $10-$150+ depending on capacity and speed rating. A good 32GB card can be had for around $15-20.
When purchasing, be sure to buy from a reputable seller to avoid counterfeit cards. Check reviews and choose an option with high ratings.
Sources:
https://gopro.com/help/articles/block/microSD-Card-Considerations?sf96806377=1
Inserting an SD Card into the GoPro Hero 10
Inserting an SD card into your GoPro Hero 10 camera is quick and easy. Here are step-by-step instructions to properly insert an SD card:
1. Locate the SD card slot on the right side of the GoPro Hero 10 camera. It is covered by a small rectangular door that you’ll need to open to access the slot.
2. Make sure the SD card is facing the right way – the label side should be facing the back of the camera. Trying to forcefully insert the SD card backwards can damage the card and camera slot.
3. With the label side facing the back of the camera, gently slide the SD card into the slot until it clicks into place and is firmly seated.
4. Close the SD card slot door securely afterwards.
Avoid touching the gold contacts on the SD card and try to handle the card only by the edges. This will help prevent transfer of dirt, dust or oils from your fingers that could lead to corruption or damage. Also be careful not to bend the card when inserting it.
Once properly inserted, the SD card will be mounted by the camera automatically for saving photos and videos. You can confirm it is detected by checking the top-left corner of the camera screen for the “SD” icon.
Maximizing SD Card Performance for the GoPro Hero 10
To get the best performance from your SD card with the GoPro Hero 10, follow these tips:
- Use an SD card with a high speed rating. The Hero 10 supports up to UHS-I speed class 3 (U3) and video speed class 30 (V30) cards. A card rated U3/V30 provides optimal write speeds for high bitrate video recording. Top cards include the SanDisk Extreme Pro and Lexar Professional 1000x.
- Format the SD card in the camera. Go to Preferences > Format SD Card. This will format the card to match the GoPro’s settings.
- Update the camera firmware. Keeping the GoPro’s firmware up to date can help address any SD card issues.
- Avoid removing the card when recording. This can corrupt video files or damage the card.
- Don’t fill the card completely. Leave 10-20% free space for optimal performance.
If you experience SD card issues like slow write speeds, file corruption, or card errors, try reformatting the card in the GoPro. If problems persist, the card may be defective and need replacing.
Using SD Cards for Storage
One of the key benefits of using SD cards with the GoPro Hero 10 is expanded storage capacity. The internal memory of the GoPro Hero 10 can fill up quickly, especially when recording high-quality, high-bitrate video. SD cards provide additional storage space to capture more photos and footage.
For example, recording 5.3K video at 60fps uses around 370MB per minute. This means the 64GB of built-in storage could be filled up in under 3 hours of recording. By adding a 256GB SD card, you expand the available storage to 320GB total, providing over 13 hours of 5.3K60 recording capacity. Similarly, shooting 20MP photos eats up storage quickly, with each photo around 6-10MB in size.
Using higher capacity SD cards like 128GB, 256GB, or 512GB allows you to truly take advantage of the GoPro Hero 10’s stellar image quality and resolution without worrying about filling up the internal memory (Alik Griffin). With ample external storage, you can capture hours of crisp 4K or 5K footage and time lapses, and thousands of crystal clear photos.
Transferring Files from the SD Card
Once you have captured footage on your GoPro Hero 10, you will need to transfer the files from the SD card to a computer or smartphone for editing and sharing. There are a few different options for transferring files:
You can connect the GoPro directly to your smartphone or computer using the USB-C cable that came with the camera. This allows you to transfer files directly without removing the SD card. Just be sure the GoPro is powered on and set to Mass Storage mode.
Another option is to remove the SD card from the GoPro and insert it into a card reader, either a standalone USB reader or built-in SD card slot if your computer has one. Then you can access the files on the card and transfer them to your device storage. Most laptops have built-in SD card readers.
When using a card reader, be sure to safely eject the SD card before removing it from the computer. This ensures any files still being transferred are fully written to the card first. It’s important to avoid corruption of the files on the SD card.
Third party mobile apps like the GoPro App can also facilitate wireless transfer of files from the GoPro Hero 10 to your smartphone over a WiFi connection. The app allows you to preview, transfer, and share your footage on the go.
For more details on wireless transfer methods, check out this guide: Easy Ways to Transfer GoPro Videos to Computer in 2023
SD Card Care and Handling
SD cards are crucial for storing your GoPro footage, so it’s important to handle them properly to avoid potential issues like corruption or damage. Here are some tips on SD card care when using your GoPro Hero 10:
Always eject the SD card properly before removing it from your GoPro. To do this, go into the GoPro’s settings menu, tap “Preferences” then “SD Card”, and select “Eject”. This ensures any data writes are completed before removing the card.
Avoid exposing SD cards to liquids, dirt or debris. The contacts on the card are vulnerable to corrosion if exposed to moisture or particles. Be sure your hands are clean when handling SD cards.
Store SD cards in a protective case when not in use. Don’t leave them loose where they can be bent or scratched. Ideal storage is in a sealed plastic case in a cool, dry location away from magnets or static electricity.
Format your SD card in the GoPro before first use. This primes the card for optimal performance with your camera. Avoid repeatedly formatting the card after footage has been shot, as this can degrade the card over time.
Use brand name SD cards from reputable manufacturers like SanDisk or Lexar. Avoid cheap generic cards which are more prone to failure or slow write speeds.
Don’t remove an SD card while the red recording light is on. Always stop recording first, then follow the steps to properly eject the card before removing it.
Be gentle when inserting and removing cards. Don’t force them in or bend them. A damaged SD card slot can prevent your camera from functioning properly.
Regularly transfer footage off the SD card to a computer or external hard drive. Don’t use the card as permanent storage or leave footage on it indefinitely.
Following these precautions will help keep your SD cards working reliably for longer with your GoPro Hero 10 camera.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions related to using SD cards with the GoPro Hero 10:
Do I need an SD card for my GoPro Hero 10?
Yes, you need a microSD card for the GoPro Hero 10 in order to store your photos and videos (source: https://havecamerawilltravel.com/gopro/gopro-hero10-black-sd-card/). The Hero 10 does not have any internal storage, so a microSD card is required.
What size SD card should I get?
GoPro recommends using SD cards with at least 64GB of storage for the Hero 10. Higher capacity cards like 128GB or 256GB will allow you to store more photos and videos before needing to offload the files (source: https://gopro.com/help/articles/block/microSD-Card-Considerations).
What speed rating or class should the SD card be?
GoPro recommends using microSD cards with a speed rating of V30 or UHS-3 for optimal performance with the Hero 10. Using a slower card can result in choppy playback and recordings. Cards with a U3, V30, A2 rating meet the speed requirements (source: https://havecamerawilltravel.com/gopro/gopro-hero10-black-sd-card/).
