hi can anyone vouch for a cheap version of a gopro? There seems to be a 4k model thats 40m waterproof and takes 20MP stills with stabilisation under various names. any good? If so which brand/ type?

I can't comment, but I'm going to anyway.
I've got a mate that's bought a few different GoPro knock-offs for his kids over the years - he's bought a few different one's 'cause they each failed on him.
Ive got a GoPro 4 and a 9. Had the 4 for years, and still going strong. Only upgraded to the 9 because it's so much better (5k, stabilisation etc).
My #1 suggestion would be to buy something that has replaceable batteries - ie you can remove them to recharge, and thus have spare batteries charged up ready to go.

Hi damned thanks.
I am tempted buy the gopro 11 deal they have at the moment, but its $640 or something and thats only the beginning, still need deeper case, more batteries, more sd etc.. nd because ive never owned one i dont know how much i would use. I have many friends who have them that dont use them. I thought if i got a cheaper one first i could guage use etc. and also might try more stuff with a cheaper one like dropping down the end of a fishing line or tying to keel of boat etc at the end of the day theyre only as good as how long u have them on for which means more batteries and keeping the SD up to them. I borrowed one for a recent gamefishing comp and it was always flat, full and seemed to only record for 15 seconds or so (might have been a setting) The newer ones with a screen each way would be good this one was a 5 or something and it was hard for me to use and i couldnt tell if it was on etc

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damned67 said..
My #1 suggestion would be to buy something that has replaceable batteries - ie you can remove them to recharge, and thus have spare batteries charged up ready to go.

Missus needed a camera for something, so I dug out my old HD Hero that I haven't used in forever. I think the battery is bad, after sitting discharged for years, but discovered you can buy unbranded ones on Amazon: $28 for a two-pack and AC charger...!