GoPro is the first name you’ll think of in action cams, but its line of slim, mountable Hero cameras are also popular options for vloggers and other video creatives. Recent models have enjoyed very vlog-specific updates—the Hero9 Black added a front-facing LCD, for example—and as well as an accessory system for better in-camera audio.
Today it’s adding a new accessory, the Volta control handle, and introducing a cost-saving Creator Edition bundle for aspiring vloggers searching for a one-purchase kit with the Hero10 Black action cam, Media Mod cage and microphone, video light, and the Volta.
Accessories for Vloggers and YouTubers
The Media Mod is an accessory cage for the Hero10 with a built-in microphone for better-sounding audio than the camera’s internal mic. It includes a couple of cold shoes for mounting accessories, a USB-C port for pass-through charging, and a 3.5mm input if you want to swap to a wireless lavalier or other external mic.
The video light is one of those shoe-mount accessories. The small LED add-on brightens dark scenes and, in mixed lighting, can add a little bit of fill if you find yourself in shadow on a sunny day. It has three levels of power, includes a diffuser to soften its output, and also includes a strobe setting.
The Volta handle swap between handheld and tabletop tripod modes, and supports either a USB-C or Bluetooth connection the GoPro. Its physical controls match the Hero10—there’s a big red Record button and a Power/Mode control, as well as buttons to toggle Bluetooth and check battery life. It has a second set of clips to connect and mount to backpacks for use as a wearable camera.
All and all, the Volta is a solid add-on to the system, but it’s not without some drawbacks. It has a buit-in battery to power your camera, and a permanently attached USB-C cable to connect the two. But the short cable gets in the way, it’s always hanging off the handle, in a spot where you want to put your hand. We wish GoPro had opted for a removable or retractable cable instead. The other things work as expected, though—the top mount can turn 360 degrees so you can swap between selfie video and rear-screen recording without losing access to the on-handle controls. And it’s a practical tabletop tripod to boot.
Pricing and Availability
GoPro’s pricing has become a little confusing in recent years, with the company charging more for cameras sold without the GoPro Subscription cloud service bundled. The Creator Edition continues the trend—if you’re buying it without a GoPro Subscription, it costs $784.95; it’s $581.96 if you’re an existing account holder; and new GoPro customers can get it for $531.96.
The Volta handle is available separately too, a plus if you already own a Hero10 and accessories. It’s priced at $90.99 for GoPro subscribers and $129.99 for everyone else.
