GoPro has surprised the action-camera world with the Lit HERO. Instead of a conventional flagship refresh, this model leans into one standout feature: built-in LED lighting for low-light shooting. With a lower price point and a different feature mix, the Lit HERO targets creators who want simple, reliable illumination without bolting on extra gear. Hereโs whatโs new, whatโs not, and who itโs for.
Whatโs new with the GoPro Lit HERO
The headline act is the integrated LED array beside the lens, paired with a diffuser for softer, close-up light. Itโs designed to help at night, indoors, or in dim underwater scenes where a little fill makes a big difference.
- Built-in LEDs with included diffuser for softer close-up light
- 4K/60fps video recording
- Up to 100 minutes recording at 4K/30 with LEDs off
- Waterproof to 5 m (16 ft) without a housing
Coverage: The Verge ยท NewsShooter
Whatโs likely unchanged or limited
The Lit HERO doesnโt aim to replace a top-tier โBlackโ model. Early previews suggest:
- Modest sensor rather than a big leap in dynamic range
- No 8K and no ultra-high frame rates beyond 4K/60
- Stabilisation/processing closer to GoProโs mid-tier than its peak performers
- Shallower waterproofing than higher-end models (which typically reach ~10 m/33 ft without a housing)
See also: TheNewCamera
Price, availability, and who itโs for
Launch price is US$269.99, with shipping expected from 21 October 2025 (region-dependent). That undercuts flagship pricing and makes the Lit HERO a compelling option for:
- Vloggers who shoot indoors or at night and want light built-in
- Campers and night adventurers prioritising portability over maxed-out specs
- Casual underwater usersโsnorkelling and rock poolsโwhoโll benefit from a touch of fill-light at shallow depths
How the Lit HERO compares
Lit HERO vs HERO13 Black: HERO13 Black still wins on performanceโdeeper waterproofing, more advanced stabilisation, broader high-end modesโbut it relies on external lights for dark scenes. The Lit HERO trades peak specs for convenience and price.
Lit HERO vs DJIโs next flagship (rumoured Action 6): If DJI lands a larger sensor, it could deliver cleaner low-light without LEDs. The Lit HERO answers with a simpler approach: integrated illumination youโre likely to use every time.
Small is the new big: a quick note on DJIโs Nano
DJI has also gone compact with the Osmo Nanoโan ultra-light camera reportedly offering 4K/60 and a 1/1.3-inch sensor, waterproof to 10 m. It signals a broader shift: both brands are exploring smaller, more specialised designs. Where the Lit HERO solves low light with built-in LEDs, the Nano leans into minimal size and portability. More context: The Verge
Should you buy the GoPro Lit HERO?
If you want an affordable GoPro that handles low light without extra gear, the Lit HERO hits a sweet spot. If you need maximum image quality, deeper waterproofing, and pro-level frame rates, stick with a flagship โBlackโ model or wait for GoProโs next high-end release.
Final thoughts
The GoPro Lit HERO is a smart, niche-focused addition. It wonโt replace a flagship for pros, but it will save countless creators from fumbling with light mods. For night vlogs, caves, campfires, or dim indoor shoots, having light on-board may matter more than chasing headline specs.