GoPro MISSION 1 PRO & PRO ILS
A compact GoPro underwater camera option for travel, freediving and snorkeling, and wide-angle video shooters who want a small rig with a larger 1-inch sensor and a simple underwater setup.
For most buyers, this may be the most practical entry point into the lineup. It keeps the same core imaging platform as the PRO, but trims back the highest video settings to 8K30, 4K120 Open Gate, 4K120, and 1080p240 slow motion. The tradeoff to understand is straightforward: you still get the new sensor and processor benefits, but without the maximum frame-rate performance of the PRO. That makes it a strong option for underwater shooters who care more about image quality, compact size, and simplicity than chasing the most aggressive video specs.
This is the model for buyers who want the full-featured version of the platform. It combines the new 50MP 1-inch sensor and GP3 processor with high-end video modes including 8K60, 4K240, and 1080p960 burst slow motion, plus 8K30 and 4K120 Open Gate capture. In our view, this is the best fit for shooters who want the most capture flexibility possible in the smallest package and are willing to pay more for top-end frame rates and performance headroom.
This is where the system gets especially interesting for advanced users. It uses the same GP3 processor and 50MP 1-inch sensor as the MISSION 1 PRO, but adds compatibility with Micro Four Thirds lenses. The main reason to choose this is lens flexibility. If your priority is more cinematic control, specialized focal lengths, or building a more tailored rig, this is the model that makes the most sense.
GoPro is also building out the MISSION 1 ecosystem with accessories including a new Wireless Mic System, Point-and-Shoot Grip, Powered Grip, higher-capacity Enduro 2 battery, and Media Mod for expanded I/O. Where this matters underwater is system flexibility: you can keep the camera stripped down for diving, then add the accessories you need for topside video, travel, or hybrid shooting.
Quick Specs
PRODUCT TYPE
Compact fixed-lens GoPro camera
SENSOR
50MP 1-inch sensor
PROCESSOR
GoPro GP3
MAX VIDEO
8K30
OPEN GATE
4K120
SLOW MOTION
4K120, 1080p240, 1440p240 4:3
PHOTO RESOLUTION
50MP RAW / SuperPhoto support
WATERPROOF RATING
66ft / 20m without housing
COLOR / CODEC TOOLS
10-bit color, GP-Log2, up to 240Mbps, HLG-HDR
BATTERY
Enduro 2; older HERO13 Enduro also works with shorter runtime
FIELD OF VIEW
159° native FOV
SIZE / WEIGHT
TBC
Details and specifications are still to be confirmed - details will be updated as soon as formally released by GoPro.
Compatibility
WORKS WITH
- Standalone use in water to 66ft / 20m without a housing
- Enduro 2 battery ecosystem
- Older HERO13 Black Enduro battery, with shorter runtimes
- GoPro Wireless Mic System, Media Mod, and M-Series ND Filters
GoPro also describes a broader MISSION 1 accessory ecosystem built around the camera platform.
REQUIRES
- No housing is required for surface use, snorkeling, or dives that stay within the 20m rating
- For deeper scuba diving, verify whether a dedicated housing is available before planning your system
- For best underwater color, most buyers should plan on adding one or two video lights rather than relying on ambient light alone
Compatibility varies by system — contact Bluewater Photo to confirm your setup.
OPTIONAL GEAR
- Dual-handle tray for a steadier underwater hold
- One or two video lights for color and beam coverage
- Spare Enduro 2 batteries and charger
- Mounts, clamps, and arms for a complete travel rig
Where this fits best in a complete setup is a small, wide-angle-focused video kit rather than a dedicated macro or interchangeable-lens system.
Feature Highlights
Larger-Sensor Performance in a Small Body
For most underwater photographers moving up from a typical action camera, the real value here is the 50MP 1-inch sensor and GP3 processor combination. That is the part that should translate into better low-light potential, more editing flexibility, and a more serious starting point for underwater video.
- Same sensor and processor platform as the MISSION 1 PRO
- Up to 14 stops of dynamic range at the sensor
- 50MP RAW photo support for buyers who want more post-processing headroom
- Useful upgrade path for shooters outgrowing basic action-camera image quality
All four of those points are relevant to underwater work because light drops quickly with depth and color correction gets harder as scenes darken.
Strong Video Modes for Travel and Wide-Angle Work
If your priority is travel video, fish action, reef fly-throughs, or topside-and-underwater hybrid shooting, the MISSION 1 still gives you a serious set of modes: 8K30, 4K120 Open Gate, and 1080p240 slow motion, plus up to 240Mbps, 10-bit GP-Log2, and timecode sync. That is a meaningful spec set for a compact fixed-lens camera.
- 8K30 gives cropping room for 4K delivery
- 4K120 Open Gate offers flexible reframing
- 1080p240 is useful for fast-moving pelagics and action clips
- 10-bit capture helps if you want more grading latitude
The honest tradeoff is that advanced shooters who specifically want 8K60, 4K240, or 1080p960 should step up to the PRO instead.
The biggest benefit with the Pro ILS is the ability to use Micro Four Thirds lenses, allowing for greater creativity when it comes to shooting wide angle, macro, depth of field, clarity, and sharpness.
Perfect For
TRAVEL DIVE PHOTOGRAPHY
A strong fit for buyers who want a small carry-on-friendly system and do not want to manage a full mirrorless housing rig on every trip.
SNORKELING & SHALLOW SCUBA
The built-in 20m waterproof rating makes the most sense here, especially for reef scenes, freediving, and light travel days.
WIDE-ANGLE VIDEO
This fits best for close-focus wide-angle style video, diver action, schools of fish, and general trip footage rather than dedicated super-macro work.
HYBRID TOPSIDE / UNDERWATER CREATORS
A good choice for creators who want one compact camera for topside B-roll, travel content, and underwater clips in the same trip.
Comparison Table
| Product | Headline Video / Capture | Lens Approach | Underwater Note | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GoPro MISSION 1 | 8K30, 4K120 Open Gate, 4K120 / 1080p240 | Fixed lens | Waterproof to 66ft / 20m without housing | Travel divers who want the new sensor platform in the simplest package |
| GoPro MISSION 1 PRO | 8K60, 8K30 / 4K120 Open Gate, 4K240, 1080p960 | Fixed lens | Waterproof to 66ft / 20m without housing. GoPro housing for deeper dives will be available. | Shooters who want the highest frame rates and most advanced video modes |
| GoPro MISSION 1 PRO ILS | Same 50MP 1-inch sensor and GP3 platform as PRO | Interchangeable Micro Four Thirds lens mount | Dedicated underwater housing plan to be confirmed | Advanced users who want lens flexibility more than bare-camera simplicity |
This table compares the MISSION 1 against the other current models in GoPro’s MISSION 1 lineup because those are the closest buying alternatives based on verified launch information.
Recommended Accessories
SPARE BATTERIES
Enduro 2 batteries make the most sense for longer dive days and travel schedules.
BATTERY CHARGER
Useful if you are doing multiple dives per day or shooting topside and underwater on the same trip.
TRAY / HANDLE RIG
Adds stability underwater and gives you a cleaner platform for one or two lights.
VIDEO LIGHTS
The most important add-on for restoring color and contrast underwater.
ARMS / CLAMPS / MOUNTS
Needed once you move beyond a bare-camera setup and want better light placement.
DEEPER-DIVE HOUSING
Only relevant if your dive plan exceeds the 20m waterproof rating. Housing availability and compatibility should be verified first.
Why Buy from Bluewater Photo
Content reviewed by Bluewater Photo staff with real-world experience supporting, selling, and configuring underwater camera systems.
We focus on the practical questions buyers actually ask before ordering: Will this work for my depth range? Do I need a housing right away? Should I build a lighted tray or keep it minimal for travel?
That kind of pre-purchase system guidance matters more than a long spec list when you are trying to build the right underwater kit the first time.
Ready to Build Your GoPro Underwater Setup?
Expert support from underwater photographers.
Pre-Order Now (available June 2026)Related Gear
- Shop underwater action cameras
- Browse GoPro trays and accessories
- See underwater video lights
- Explore all underwater lighting
- Compare video light packages
These are the categories most buyers usually cross-shop when building out a complete GoPro underwater video system.
Guides & Articles
BLUEWATER PHOTO GUIDES
BLUEWATER ARTICLES
UNDERWATER PHOTOGRAPHY GUIDE
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the GoPro MISSION 1 waterproof without a housing?
Yes, GoPro says the MISSION 1 is waterproof to 66ft / 20m without a housing. For many snorkelers and shallow scuba divers, that is enough to start simple.
Do I still need a housing for scuba diving?
It depends on your depth. If your dives can exceed 20m / 66ft, verify whether a compatible housing is available before you buy.
What battery does it use?
GoPro lists the new Enduro 2 battery for the MISSION 1 Series. It also says older HERO13 Black Enduro batteries can work, but with shorter runtime.
Should I add underwater video lights?
For consistent color underwater, usually yes. One light can help for close work, but two lights generally give better wide-angle coverage and more even shadows.
How is MISSION 1 different from MISSION 1 PRO?
The MISSION 1 keeps the same core 50MP 1-inch sensor and GP3 processor, but the PRO adds higher-end video, Open Gate, and slow-motion modes. If you do not need those extra modes, the MISSION 1 is the simpler buy.
Is this a good macro camera?
It is better thought of as a compact wide-angle video tool first. If your priority is dedicated macro or interchangeable-lens control, you will probably want a different system.
Can Bluewater Photo help me confirm the right setup?
Yes. That is exactly where we add the most value—depth planning, lighting choices, and deciding whether you should keep the system simple or build it out further.
