[Solved] Troubleshoot GoPro Won’t Play Video with 5 Ways

Jenefey Aaron
Apr 17, 2024 / Updated by Jenefey Aaron to Solution

You’re back from a breathtaking hike! Now, you’re eager to watch that magic on your GoPro, but a blank screen is introduced instead of spectacular views. Fear not, as there’s a way to fix GoPro won’t play video issues. This post will help you get through it, giving you the reasons why this frustrating problem happens alongside the corresponding ways to relive your epic moments. So, what are you waiting for? Fix GoPro video playback errors today!

Cause 1: Corrupted Video Files

The first reason why your GoPro videos won't play is the corrupted video files. This is when data within the file is damaged, making it unplayable during the playback, and happens during transfer, sudden shutdowns, or errors of your storage device. Just use AnyRec Video Repair to solve blank screen, freezing, or playing distortedly. Follow the steps to fix GoPro videos not playing or choppy for this reason:

• Repair any corrupted GoPro videos easily with one click.
• Fix damaged videos to the original format, quality, and more.
• Able to preview the recovered videos before saving.
• Provide smooth and quick video repair for even long videos.

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Free Download

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Step 1.Launch the program and upload your corrupted GoPro videos and a sample video into the main interface.

Import Videos

Step 2.Click the "Repair" button and check the effect by clicking the "Preview" button. If the GoPro won’t play video problem is fixed, click the "Save" button to export.

Save
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Free Download

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Cause 2: Unsupported File Formats or Codec

Having unsupported file formats or codecs may cause the GoPro to function incorrectly, too. This occurs when the video has been encoded with code or format that the player does not recognize. If the chosen media player lacks the needed codec, it cannot play the video properly. Common unsupported formats include HEVC, which is newer, while older ones like AVI and FLC may also not work with some players. Thus, try these solutions to overcome the GoPro won’t play video issue of yours:

1. Install the necessary codecs, like the K-Lite Codec Pack, to make your media player decode and play the GoPro video properly.

2. Alternatively, you could use players like VLC, which covers a wide range of formats and codecs, including GoPro formats.

K Lite Codec Pack

Cause 3: Inadequate Hardware or Software Issues

Another reason why you’re unable to process full-length GoPro video is because of insufficient hardware or out-of-date software. High-quality videos, especially those with high resolution and modern codecs, require enough CPU and GPU resources. If your computer hardware is outdated, expect it will struggle to decode and present the high-definition content. In addition to that, software issues like bugs, out-of-date drivers, or incompatible players will lead to poor playback quality. With these hardware and software issues presented, the GoPro video will stutter, freeze, or won’t play at all. Try the following solutions to fix GoPro won’t play video:

1. Update the software and driver on your computer in "Device Manager" (Windows + X).

2. You can also try to free up system resources by closing any extra programs running in the background during the GoPro video playback.

3. Furthermore, ensure your GoPro settings are optimized for the video file you’re trying to play.

Update Driver Windows

Cause 4: SD Card Problems

SD card issues may cause video playback problems, mainly when the card is damaged, corrupted, or incompatible with the device. And this problem happens when the card is removed improperly, suffers from wear and tear, or faces a sudden power loss during transfer. Also, most of the time, the card may be incompatible with the device or format, resulting in the ‘GoPro won’t play video’ issue. Here are the solutions you should try to resolve this problem:

1. Consider using a different SD card to check if the issue is with the original card.

2. Otherwise, if your GoPro device can’t read the SD card, try linking it directly to your computer via a card reader to see if the video files are accessible.

Cause 5. Incompatibility Formats

Newer codecs like HEVC are often not covered by older devices, hardware, or software, which might be why GoPro videos will not play or show a preview happened. Additionally, high-resolution videos need powerful hardware to process the high volume of data they have, and with older processors or limited graphics, you may struggle to display these videos correctly. For this reason, converting it with AnyRec Video Converter can make all the difference. This powerful software lets you easily convert GoPro videos into a wide range of compatible formats. You’d better try it now and get out of the GoPro won’t play video problem.

AnyRec Video Converter Package
AnyRec Video Converter

Convert any videos into a much more GoPro compatible format like MP4.

Have editing features to personalize your GoPro videos with stunning effects.

Use cutting-edge algorithms to keep the original high quality.

Batch process multiple files simultaneously, which will save your time.

Free Download

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Free Download

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Step 1.Fire up AnyRec Video Converter on your desktop screen, then add your GoPro videos by clicking the "Add Files" button or simply dragging and dropping them into the main interface.

Import Video

Step 2.To select the best format, select the "Video Format" dropdown list button and aim for "MP4" from the "Video" section. Or if you wish to export slow-mo from GoPro on Mac, you can choose its default format, "MOV" on the list.

Select Video Format

You can customize the conversion settings by clicking the "Custom Profile", where you can set your own desired frame rate, resolution, and other settings.

Edit Video Profile

Step 3.Now, select the location and name for your newly converted file, then click the "Convert All" button for finalization. Once done, try playing the GoPro video on your chosen player.

Convert Video

Tips to Get a Smooth GoPro Video Playback

After those reasons with solutions for fixing corrupted video files, to ensure you won’t reencounter these issues, it is crucial to follow some best practices. Before finishing this entire post, dive into the following key tips for smooth GoPro video playback.

Format your SD card regularly. Doing so will ensure your SD card is correctly prepared for recording, preventing system errors that may lead to so many playback issues.

Update GoPro firmware. With updates, you can resolve bugs and improve the performance of your device, fixing playback problems and enhancing overall camera stability.

Utilize high-quality SD cards. Please use high-speed, high-capacity cards mainly designed for GoPro cameras, like those with V360 speed ratings.

Store GoPro in a cool, dry place. Extreme heat or cold can damage your SD cards and the GoPro device. So, you must avoid your device from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.

Use the GoPro app for playback. The GoPro app is made to work seamlessly with GoPro cameras, providing better compatibility and editing tools for quick adjustments.

Conclusion

Experiencing GoPro video playback issues can indeed be frustrating, but thanks to these reasons and solutions you’re able to fix GoPro won’t play video. By following the solutions in this guide, such as utilizing a versatile converter like AnyRec Video Converter, especially if it is about incompatibility, you can ensure that your precious GoPro videos will always be accessible and ready to be enjoyed on any device. You can convert these videos to a high-quality, compatible format of your choice. Now, go forth and enjoy a smooth, uninterrupted GoPro playback experience!

Free Download

100% Secure

Free Download

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