The most popular action camera device right now is the GoPro. It can take both videos and pictures in extreme environments without suffering major damage. Once the content is added to the GoPro, users will want to export all photos and videos to another device, for example, a Windows PC. Now, the question is, how can we connect a GoPro to a Windows computer and siphon off all the video and picture contents with ease? Well, you should worry not because we have all the information you need to keep on the right track.
How to connect GoPro to PC
We must point out that there are two ways to collect data from your GoPro. You can either connect the device via USB or attach the SD card to your computer.
- Connect the GoPro to a computer via USB
- Connect the GoPros SD card to your computer
1] Connect GoPro to computer via USB
The first thing to do is to connect the GoPro to your computer. This is pretty straightforward, so let us discuss how to get it done in the easiest way possible.
- Begin by pressing the Power/Mode button to boot the GoPro.
- Ensure the Wi-Fi is turned off on GoPro HERO3+ and older devices.
- Once done, locate the USB port on the GoPro.
- The port is usually located on the side of the device.
- Connect the USB to the GoPro, then connect the other end to your computer’s USB port.
- If the connection is made properly, a USB icon should show up on the screen of the camera.
Now, if you want to have the GoPro automatically open the folder with your files when connected to your computer, then make use of the AutoPlay feature.
The AutoPlay feature is quite useful because it makes it possible for the user to choose what happens when a third-party device is connected to Windows. For example, you can make it so that whenever your GoPro is connected, it will automatically open the video or image folders.
Use the Auto Launch/AutoPlay feature
Let us look at how to get this done in the easiest way possible right now.
- Connect your GoPro to the computer via USB.
- A small pop-up will appear at the left of your screen.
- From there, click on Open device to view files.
- Windows will now automatically connect to the GoPro.
From now on, whenever the same device is connected to your computer, it will automatically direct the user to the folder containing the files.
Read:: How to transfer files from GoPro camera to Windows PC
2] Connect the GoPro’s SD card to your PC
If you do not have a USB lying around but rather an SD card reader, then this solution is perfect.
- Remove the SD card from the GoPro.
- If your computer does not have a built-in SD card reader, then connect a third-party reader to the device.
- From there, slide the SD card into the reader.
In just a few seconds you should now be able to view the contents on the SD card directly from your Windows 11/10 computer.
Read: Repair corrupted GoPro videos if they are not working
Change AutoPlay settings
If you are not pleased with how the AutoPlay feature is working after a period of time, then you can adjust it.
- Press the Windows key + I to launch the Settings app.
- Select the option that reads, Bluetooth & devices.
- Scroll down and select AutoPlay.
From there, you can change the settings to what fits your needs, or turn it off entirely.
Read: How to use GoPro as Webcam on Windows computer
Why won’t my GoPro connect to my computer?
There are several reasons why your GoPro fails to connect to your computer. The camera itself could be the problem, so if that is the case we suggest removing the battery and the SD card, then reattaching them again before connecting to the computer. Furthermore, you could try connecting the GoPro to a different computer.
Read: GoPro Camera is not recognized when plugged into a computer USB Port
Can I connect my GoPro directly to my computer?
Yes, it is possible to connect a GoPro directly to a Windows 11/10 computer. This is possible because the device comes with support for USB, so all you have to do is connect the cable to the GoPro, then plug the other end into the USB port on your computer, and that’s it. However, if you do not have the USB cable with you, you can use the memory card to get the footages. The easiest way to view and manage videos on a GoPro is to use the software known as GoPro Quik for Desktop. Once up and running, you can watch and manage MP4 and HEVC video files. Bear in mind that HEVC requires a competent graphics card to play videos smoothly.
