This might seem like a pretty obvious question. That’s because (nearly) all of the GoPro models of the past several years have had a built-in screen. Many newer models actually have two, a smaller one on the front and a larger one on the back.
But that hasn’t always been the case. And even with the newer models, there are some rare exceptions.
It’s now simpler to identify the models that do not have live view screens. Models that aren’t listed here, including the HERO12 Black and MAX 360-degree camera, do have full-color live view screens built in.
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GoPro models without a live view screen
Nearly all of the newer GoPros of recent years have a screen. But there are some rare exceptions.
GoPro HERO10 Black Bones
This is a stripped-down, lightweight version designed specifically for FPV drones. Since screens add weight and reduce battery life, and because there’s no need for one that’s flying around on a drone, this camera doesn’t have one.
GoPro HERO11 Black Mini
The Mini has a small status screen that shows recording time, battery level, and capture settings. There’s no rear screen. To preview and frame your shot, you use the GoPro Quik app.
GoPro Fusion
The Fusion was GoPro’s first 360-degree spherical camera. Technically, it does have a screen, but it’s only a small black-and-white screen that shows status and settings. It doesn’t show a live view, can’t be used for playback, and isn’t a touch screen.
GoPro HERO Session, HERO4 Session & HERO5 Session
The Session cameras have only a small status screen that shows mode and settings information. There’s no touch screen.
GoPro HERO+ & HERO (2014)
The HERO+ and the entry-level HERO (2014) have only a status screen. Don’t confuse them with the HERO+ LCD, which has a touch display on the back, or the HERO (2018), which has a touch screen.
GoPro HERO4 Black & older
Early models of GoPros didn’t include a screen. The first model that included a built-in full-color back screen was the HERO4 Silver (the HERO4 Black had only a status screen, not a back screen). After that, it became a standard feature on most models.
At least, they didn’t have the type of back screen that you can use for live preview and operating the menu system. Several early models did include a small monochrome screen on the front that was just a status screen.
And with some earlier models, you could add a screen as an optional accessory that clipped onto the back (it was known as the LCD Touch BacPac accessory).
Things worth knowing
On newer models, the screen is a touch screen similar to what we’re used to with smartphones. But there’s a common situation where the touch aspect can be problematic.
That’s when you’re shooting in and around water. If the camera is fully submerged, the touch won’t work. But even with splashes or drops of water, it can create problems by randomly activated.
So I often find it best to lock the back screen when shooting around water. On the HERO8 Black and later, swipe down on the touch screen to open the Dashboard, then tap Screen Lock.
