GoPro's official trade-in program gives you store credit, not cash
GoPro runs a trade-in program through its website where you send in your old camera and receive a credit toward a new one. The amount you get depends on the model, condition, and age of your camera. You won't receive money — only a credit code that works toward any GoPro purchase, including bundles and accessories.
The process is straightforward: you request a trade-in quote on GoPro's site, ship your camera to them at no cost, and they inspect it. If it matches your description, they email you a credit code within a few business days. You then use that code at checkout on GoPro.com.
Trade-in values are typically lower than what you'd get selling privately, but the convenience and may provide acceptance make it worth considering if you want a quick upgrade without the hassle of listing, communicating with buyers, or handling returns.
Key Takeaways
- GoPro's trade-in program issues store credit only, not cash, and the amount depends on your camera's model, condition, and age.
- You ship your old camera to GoPro for free, and they inspect it before issuing a credit code that works toward any purchase on GoPro.com.
- Trade-in values are lower than private sales but eliminate the work of photographing, listing, and negotiating with buyers.
- Third-party retailers like Best Buy and B&H Photo also accept GoPro trade-ins, sometimes with different values or payout methods.
- Selling your camera privately on eBay, Facebook Marketplace, or Craigslist typically nets more money but requires more effort and carries more risk.
How much your old GoPro is worth in trade
GoPro doesn't publish a fixed trade-in schedule, so values change based on demand and inventory. A recent-generation camera in good condition (no cracks, water damage, or heavy scratches) might fetch 30 to 50 percent of its original retail price. Older models like the Hero 7 or Hero 8 typically bring less than newer ones like the Hero 11 or Hero 12.
The condition rating matters most. GoPro accepts cameras in "good," "fair," and "like new" condition. "Like new" means minimal visible wear and full functionality. "Good" means it works but shows signs of use. "Fair" means it has visible damage but still operates. Cameras that won't power on or have water damage inside are usually rejected.
To get a quote before committing, visit GoPro.com, select your camera model, describe its condition honestly, and the site will show you an estimated credit amount. This quote is usually valid for 30 days, giving you time to decide.
Where else you can trade in or sell your GoPro
Best Buy accepts GoPro trade-ins in-store and online. Their values sometimes differ from GoPro's official program, and you may receive a Best Buy gift card instead of a discount code. B&H Photo also runs a trade-in program with mail-in service similar to GoPro's. Both retailers are worth checking if you want to compare offers before deciding.
If you want cash instead of store credit, selling privately is your only option. eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Craigslist all have active GoPro listings. Prices vary widely depending on model, condition, and how quickly you want to sell. A well-described camera in good condition typically sells for 40 to 60 percent of retail, though popular recent models can command higher prices.
Private sales take more time and carry more risk — you handle shipping, deal with returns, and may encounter buyers who dispute the condition. But if you need cash rather than store credit, or if your camera's trade-in value seems too low, private sale is worth the extra work.
Steps to trade in through GoPro's official program
Start by going to GoPro.com and finding the trade-in section, usually linked from the main navigation or the product pages. Select your camera model from the dropdown menu. Answer questions about its condition: Does it power on? Are there cracks, dents, or water damage? Does the lens work? Be honest — GoPro will inspect the camera and reject it if your description doesn't match.
Once you've described the camera, the site shows your estimated credit amount. If you accept, you'll receive a prepaid shipping label. Pack your camera securely (the original box is ideal, but any padded box works), print the label, and drop it at any shipping location. GoPro covers the cost.
After GoPro receives and inspects your camera, they'll email you a credit code within 5 to 10 business days. The code works when ready on GoPro.com and has no expiration date, so you can use it whenever you're ready to buy. If the camera's condition doesn't match your description, GoPro will contact you — you can then accept a lower credit amount, request it back, or decline the trade.
When trade-in makes sense versus private sale
Trade in your camera if you want the fastest, simplest path to an upgrade and don't mind receiving less money. The process takes about two weeks total, you avoid writing listings and answering buyer questions, and there's no risk of a return or dispute. This works well if you're upgrading to a new GoPro and the credit covers a meaningful portion of the cost.
Sell privately if you need cash, want the highest possible price, or your camera is a popular recent model that will sell quickly. Private sales typically net 10 to 20 percent more than trade-in, but you'll spend time photographing, listing, communicating, and possibly handling returns. Private sale also works better if you're not buying another GoPro — your credit would go unused.
A middle ground: check what Best Buy or B&H Photo offer before committing to GoPro's program. Their quotes may be higher, or they may offer cash instead of credit. Spending 10 minutes comparing saves you money or gets you a more useful payout method.
What happens if your camera is damaged or won't power on
GoPro's trade-in program accepts cameras in fair condition, which includes visible damage as long as the camera powers on and the lens functions. If your camera won't turn on, has internal water damage, or has a cracked lens, GoPro will likely reject it during inspection.
If rejection happens, GoPro will contact you with options: accept a much lower credit amount (sometimes $0 to $10), request the camera back at no cost, or let GoPro recycle it. You won't be charged a restocking fee or inspection fee — the only cost is your time if you need to arrange return shipping.
For damaged cameras, private sale on eBay or Facebook Marketplace may be your better option. Buyers specifically search for "parts" or "repair" cameras and will pay something for a broken GoPro, whereas the official trade-in program won't. Be clear in your listing that the camera doesn't power on or has damage, and price accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I trade in a GoPro I didn't buy from GoPro?
Yes. GoPro's trade-in program accepts any GoPro camera regardless of where you bought it — retail store, Amazon, secondhand, or elsewhere. The only requirement is that it's a genuine GoPro model and it powers on (or is in fair condition if it has damage).
How long does the trade-in process take?
Shipping is free and usually takes 3 to 7 days. Inspection and credit issuance take another 5 to 10 business days after GoPro receives it. Plan for about two weeks total from the moment you ship until your credit code arrives.
Can I use my trade-in credit toward a used or refurbished GoPro?
Yes. GoPro's credit code works on any item sold through GoPro.com, including refurbished cameras, bundles, and accessories. It does not work on third-party retailers like Amazon or Best Buy, only on GoPro's official site.
What if I change my mind after shipping my camera?
Once you've shipped the camera, you can't cancel the trade-in. If GoPro hasn't inspected it yet, contact their support team when ready — they may be able to intercept it. After inspection, your only option is to accept the credit, request the camera back, or decline the trade. Requesting it back is free but takes additional time.
Is the trade-in credit taxable?
That depends on your location and tax situation. In most cases, a trade-in credit reduces the taxable purchase price of your new camera rather than being treated as income. Consult a tax professional if you're unsure, especially if you're trading in a business camera.