As a creator who’s relied on action cameras for years, I’ve lost count of how many times my GoPro shut down mid-shoot due to overheating. It’s not a rare fluke—it’s a pattern. I’ve had footage vanish during critical moments, all because the camera couldn’t handle extended use in real-world conditions. GoPro’s overheating problems are well-documented in user forums and my own painful experience.

Even if GoPro handed me their latest model for free today, I wouldn’t trust it for important shots. The risk of losing footage isn’t worth it, no matter how advanced the specs look on paper. I’ve been burned too many times to believe a free unit changes the fundamental reliability issues.

That’s why I’ve stopped recommending GoPro products entirely. For creators who need dependable gear, I now point to DJI or Insta360. Their cameras handle heat better, last longer in the field, and don’t force you to choose between capturing the moment and praying your device doesn’t die.

This skepticism isn’t just about hardware—it’s about trust. When your livelihood depends on capturing footage, you need gear that works when it counts. GoPro has repeatedly failed that test. Until they prove otherwise with real-world durability, not just marketing, I’m done betting on them.

The recent news of GoPro selling 90% of itself to Starman Optical only reinforces my doubts. If the company is restructuring amid declining trust, why should creators believe the next generation will be any better? For now, my loyalty lies with brands that deliver consistency—not promises.