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Image: GoPro Handlebar

Buying used GoPro cameras could give you the same satisfaction as getting a new one.  Let’s face it, keeping up with today’s technology can be taxing on your wallet.

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Start by creating a shortlist of the desired GoPro camera, condition, price, and any peripherals that will define what a good deal looks like. New GoPro HERO HD cameras can cost around $129.99 to $499.99 USD depending on the edition.

Research the older GoPro HERO models and see if the previous iterations are affordable.  You never know what kind of prices you may find when looking at a used GoPro HERO 2 as opposed to the newest model. Since GoPro plans to launch a new HERO version on a yearly basis, the newer products are often several times more powerful than the outgoing ones as well as being smaller, and lighter.

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A word of caution if you plan on utilizing a GoPro for production quality, going back to older models is likely to result in losing the firmware updates, and latest software. Fortunately, GoPro users tend to take really good care of their prized possessions so you are likely to find like-new conditions.

These are some things to keep in mind when purchasing a used GoPro HERO HD camera

1 – See if the memory card is also included. This will surely save you money!

2 – Make sure that the housing case of the camera is intact. This is very important. The housing acts as first line protection and lens modifier for the HERO.

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Image: GoPro demo housing

3 – The rubber trim surrounding the housing doors should also be looked at. The rubber prevents water and debris from penetrating the housing, thus protecting the actual camera.

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Image: GoPro housing door

4 – Does the purchase come with additional mounts? This seems like a no brainer as you will definitely need a way to mount your camera. You can always buy more mounts in the long run.

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Image: GoPro mounts

5 – No Scratches!  Make sure the outside of the camera does not look beat up or people will think of you as the camera man who shoots with old junk. Likewise, examine the lenses for scratches because that will affect your photos.

6 – Take a few pictures on the camera and transfer them to a computer to make sure the image sensor is working properly.  GoPro camera technology revolves around mega pixel sensors to produce the highest resolutions.

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Image: GoPro

7 – Is the GoPro software up to date?  You can always check by going to the Official GoPro website.

8 – Check the connections including the memory card slots and plug connections. GoPro cameras have the pedigree of long lasting parts, but should never be left unchecked. A lot of the times people quickly plug in and out which cause degradation on the connections. When looking at the used camera, test out the connections and see how firmly the cables stay in.

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Image: GoPro

9 – Not all problems are visible, and you might want to physically test it out on a monitor, or WIFI device to see if the slightest movement can make the difference between a working connector.

10 – Can the camera connect to your wireless device using the WIFI?  Applicable for HERO 3 models and up, the wireless app is one of the most unique features to GoPro.

12 – Successfully capture in all resolutions and modes available on the GoPro camera. The only way to reassure your purchase is to go through stream by stream and notice if there are any glitches.

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Image: GoPro

13 – Finally, what else does the deal come with? The more money you save on the camera the more fun you can have with getting additional peripherals.

The most versatile products are:

LCD Touch BacPac – The LCD Touch BacPac™ is a removable touch display that seamlessly attaches to the back of your GoPro for added convenience and control.

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Image: GoPro BacPac

Smart Remote – Control your GoPro remotely from distances of up to 600’ (180m) with this wearable, waterproof remote.

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Image: GoPro mounts

Chesty Harness – The Chesty makes it easy to capture immersive video and photos from your chest. It’s perfect for skiing, mountain biking, motocross, paddle sports or any activity where you want a more engaging, lower-than-the-helmet view of the action.

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Image: GoPro Chesty

Handlebar Seatpost Mount – Mount your GoPro to handlebars, seatposts, ski poles, kitesurfing control bars and more. You can also clamp this mount to chainstays, small-diameter roll bars and bolt heads, or secure it to a pipe or pole to create a handheld boom.

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Image: GoPro mounts

GoPro upgrade their cameras so frequently, there is always a wide choice of great quality used models for sale. With a little research, it should be possible to find a used GoPro HERO that will give you awesome value.

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Image: GoPro

Featured image via GoPro