What is GoPro Cloud Upload? Pros and Cons

What is GoPro Cloud Upload?

GoPro Cloud Upload is a feature and service that allows you to upload videos and photos captured with a GoPro to GoPro’s cloud storage.

There are three ways to upload to GoPro Cloud:

1. Automatic upload from the GoPro itself (via Wi-Fi)
2. Automatic or manual upload through the GoPro QUIK app
3. Manual upload from a browser to GoPro’s website

The supported storage is GoPro’s cloud service only, meaning there is no option for automatic uploads to other cloud services like Google Drive or OneDrive.

Benefits of GoPro Cloud Upload

Edit and Publish Immediately After Shooting

One of the biggest advantages of GoPro Cloud Upload is the elimination of the hassle of "copying or transferring files" before editing.

With automatic upload enabled on your GoPro, it will automatically upload data to the cloud as soon as you’re in a Wi-Fi environment, even if the GoPro is powered on but idle. For instance, after shooting an action scene and moving to the next shooting location, your data can be saved to the cloud without any manual effort.

This is especially useful if the person filming is different from the one editing. The shooter can capture footage on-site and upload it, while the editor at another location can begin working on it immediately.

Even if you’re away from Wi-Fi, fast uploads can still be achieved using services with unlimited data.

No Need to Worry About microSD Capacity

Since GoPro Cloud Upload offers unlimited storage, you can use the method of "shooting, automatic upload, and deleting after upload" to avoid needing large or multiple microSD cards. This can save you the cost of buying high-capacity microSD cards.

This is particularly helpful if you’re recording in short bursts across multiple sessions, though large microSD cards may still be necessary for continuous, long-duration recording.

Drawbacks of GoPro Cloud Upload

GoPro Subscription is Required

To use GoPro Cloud Upload, you must subscribe to GoPro’s premium service, GoPro Premium (formerly known as GoPro Plus). While the GoPro QUIK app is free, uploads via the QUIK app also require a subscription.

That said, the GoPro Premium subscription offers more than just unlimited cloud storage—it includes benefits such as GoPro replacement coverage and discounts on the device itself, providing significant value for the yearly cost of $49.99.

If you only use your GoPro occasionally, the subscription might not seem necessary, but for frequent users, it’s worth the investment.

What is "GoPro Premium (formerly GoPro Plus)"?

An explanation of GoPro's subscription service "GoPro Premium". We'll delve into the service offerings and highlight features such as cloud storage and camera replacement service.

Battery Consumption from the GoPro

When uploading directly from the GoPro, it consumes battery power due to Wi-Fi usage. Given that GoPro batteries are relatively small, the device can quickly run out of battery, leaving you with limited power when you need it most.

However, you can mitigate this issue by:

1. Using multiple GoPro cameras
2. Carrying extra batteries
3. Bringing along a portable charger

These options depend on your budget and tolerance for carrying additional gear, so plan accordingly to ensure smooth operation during your shoots.