Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more

Use the GoPro Quik app to move LIT HERO videos to a phone: pair the camera from its Dashboard, then download all new clips or select individual files. To transfer footage to a computer, power the camera off, remove its SD card, insert the card into a compatible reader or adapter, and copy the files. These local transfers do not require a subscription. If you want GoPro HyperSmooth stabilization applied before saving, use Quik; a direct SD-card copy is not stabilized.

Choose the right transfer method

The best route depends on where you need the files and whether you need a stabilized export.

Route Destination Physical reader needed? Subscription or network requirement Stabilization behavior
Quik phone download Phone and the Quik app No Camera-to-phone Wi-Fi and Bluetooth; no subscription for ordinary downloads Quik can stabilize footage before you save an output
SD-card copy Computer storage, with optional import into Quik Yes: a compatible SD-card reader or adapter No subscription; the computer needs a compatible card slot or USB port Files copied directly from the card are not HyperSmooth-stabilized
Automatic cloud upload GoPro cloud storage and Quik access No card reader GoPro Premium or Premium+, Wi-Fi, Quik connection and camera power Cloud backup is separate from creating a stabilized local export

For a quick share from a phone, use Quik. For a large batch, editing on a computer or making your own backups, use the card. Treat cloud upload as an optional backup and synchronization workflow rather than a requirement for either local method.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

What to prepare before transferring

  • For a phone: install GoPro Quik from the Apple App Store or Google Play, turn on the phone’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and have the LIT HERO available for pairing.
  • For a computer: use a card reader or adapter that fits the camera’s SD card and the computer’s available port. A USB-C microSD card reader is a useful search phrase, but check both card and port compatibility before buying.
  • For cloud upload: set up a GoPro Premium or Premium+ subscription, connect the camera to Quik, provide a Wi-Fi network, and connect the camera to power.
  • For every method: decide whether you need the original camera files, selected clips, or a stabilized version saved by Quik. Those are different outputs.

Do not remove the card while the camera is on. GoPro warns that doing so could permanently damage the card.

#1 Best Overall
Sale
acer SD Card Reader USB C, Dual Slots USB Type C to Micro SD Card Adapter | Memory Card Reader for MicroSD, SDHC, SDXC, Compatible with Laptop, PC, iPhone16/15, MacBook Pro/Air, iPad Pro, Android
  • 【Ultra-Fast Data Transfer】Experience blazing-fast 5Gbps data transfer with this USB 3.0 SD Card Reader, ensuring quick and efficient file transfers for photos, videos, and other media. Backward-compatible with USB 2.0 for added flexibility. Easily review and transfer data from security cameras, wildlife monitors, or car cameras, gopro without hassle(📌Note:only reads and transfers data from the SD and TF card, not directly connect to the camera)
  • 【Simultaneous Dual-Card】Save time and boost productivity with dual card slots that allow simultaneous reading and writing on both microSD and SD cards. USB-A and USB-C dual header design makes the micro SD Card Reader perfect for photographers, video editors who need quick and efficient file management(📌Note:Thick cases may prevent full insertion)
  • 【Compact & Travel-Friendly】Designed for convenience, the slim and lightweight card reader for camera memory card fits perfectly in your camera bag or laptop sleeve. Protective covers at both ends shield the ports from dust and liquid, while the attached cord keeps everything secure and easily accessible. A reliable companion for on-the-go professionals and creatives(📌Note: "SD"card and "Micro SD" card not included.)
  • 【Plug-and-Play】The SD Card Reader for PC does not require driver or software installation, just connect to your device and start transferring files instantly. Compatible with Windows 11/10/8/7, macOS, and most Android devices. Crafted from heat-resistant aluminum materials, this SD Card Reader for PC delivers reliable performance and enhanced durability, even during long working(📌Note: SD Slot does not support CF express Type A/B/C Cards; SIM, XQD, MS Cards and Memory Stick)
  • 【Wide Device Compatibility】The USB C SD Card Reader works seamlessly with PCs, computers, laptops, cameras, smartphones and tablets featuring USB-C or USB-A ports, including MacBook Air/Pro, XPS, iPhone 15/16, iPad Pro, Samsung Galaxy S23, Microsoft Surface, Acer Aspire, and Predator series. Perfect for quickly accessing files directly on your device without additional apps or internet connections(📌Note:Not compatible with “Lightning” port devices)

Transfer LIT HERO videos to a phone with Quik

1. Install and open Quik

Download the GoPro Quik app from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Open it before beginning the pairing process so the app can guide the connection.

2. Put the camera into pairing mode

  1. Turn on the LIT HERO.
  2. Swipe down on the camera screen to open the Dashboard.
  3. Swipe left.
  4. Choose Pair Device.

3. Pair the phone and camera

Make sure the phone’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled. In Quik, follow the on-screen pairing instructions. GoPro’s LIT HERO User Manual states: Make sure that your phone’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth® are on. Start the GoPro Quik app and follow the on-screen instructions to pair your camera.

After the first setup, the camera and app should sync when both are on and wireless connections are enabled. Keep the app open while the initial connection completes; the exact prompts can vary by phone operating system and app version.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

4. Download all new footage

In Quik, tap Download. This downloads all new footage available to the app. This option is useful when you want everything recorded since the last transfer without choosing clips one by one.

5. Download only selected clips

  1. In Quik, tap View Media.
  2. Select one file or multiple files.
  3. Tap the download control.

Use this route when phone storage is limited or you only need clips for a particular post, message or edit.

Where Quik can find media

The manual says Quik can access media stored on the camera’s SD card, in GoPro cloud storage and in the Quik app. Seeing a clip in the app does not necessarily mean a full local copy is already saved to the phone; use the download command for the files you want available on the device.

What a phone transfer produces

The documented phone workflow saves the downloaded media to the Quik app on the phone. From there, use the phone’s normal share or export controls if you need a copy in another app. Keep the original files on the camera or computer until you have confirmed that the phone copy opens correctly.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Transfer LIT HERO videos to a computer with the SD card

1. Turn the LIT HERO off

Power the camera down completely before opening the card compartment or ejecting the card. Removing a card while the camera is on can permanently damage the card, according to GoPro’s manual.

Rank #2
USB C SD Card Reader, Type C SD Card Reader, Supports SD and MicroSD Memory Card Adapters for iPhone 15 16/iPad/MacBook/Mac, Trail Camera Viewer Plug and Play -2 Slots
  • 【2-in-1 SD Card Reader】This sd card reader adopts dual card slot design, compatible with SD/SDHC/SDXC/MicroSD/MicroSDXC/MicroSDHC memory cards. You can easily save the photos inside the SD card to your iPhone/iPad/Mac/Camera, view the photos and videos in the memory card anytime and anywhere, and upload them to social platforms, it is a good partner for your travelling and playing.
  • 【Bi-directional Transfer】This memory sd card reader supports batch uploading photos and videos to transfer to your iPhone/iPad/Mac/Camera, reducing waiting time , and also supports you to save the data from your mobile phone or computer to the SD card through the sd card reader.
  • 【Compatible with USB C】This USB C SD Card Reader for iPhone 15/15 Plus/15 Pro/15 Pro Max, 16,iPad Air 11 inch 4th /5th generation, iPad Pro 12.9 inch 6th /5th /4th /3rd generation, iPad Pro 11 inch 4th /3rd /2nd /1st generation, iPad Mini 6th generation, iPad 10th generation, MacBook Pro 13 inch 2020/2019/2018/2017/2016, MacBook 2017/2016/2015, MacBook Air 13 inch 2020/2019/2018, and other devices with USB C port and support OTG function.
  • 【Plug and play】This TypeC SD card reader compatible with MacOS, Windows, Linux, Chrome. No driver, does not require additional third -party software, plug-and-play, very convenient and portable. For iPad, you only need to use the iPadOS built-in "Files" app for import and export.
  • 【Compact Ports Friendly】The SD card adapter is the assistant of the photographer, allowing you to immediately view the best moment of the lens. Friendly and compact port design. With the built-in expansion USB-C cable of this SD card reader, you can save space and use ports side by side.

2. Remove the card

Take the SD card out only after the camera has finished shutting down. Handle the card by its edges and avoid touching the contacts.

3. Insert it into a reader or adapter

Place the card in an SD-card reader or adapter. The reader must support the card format and the computer must have a matching connection. If the computer has a card slot, an adapter may be all that is needed; otherwise connect the reader to a USB port.

4. Connect the reader to the computer

Insert the reader into the computer’s USB port, or insert the adapter into the computer’s card slot. Wait for the operating system to mount the card as removable storage.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

5. Copy the files

Copy the video files from the card to a folder on the computer. GoPro’s instructions also describe copying files into the GoPro Quik app if you want them available in that library. Let the copy finish before ejecting the card, then use the operating system’s safe-eject command and return the card to the camera with the camera powered off.

Why the computer route is useful

  • It avoids a wireless download for large batches.
  • It gives you a normal computer copy for editing, archiving and backup.
  • It does not depend on a Quik phone connection.

The trade-off is that you need a compatible reader or adapter, and the files copied directly from the card do not have HyperSmooth stabilization applied.

How stabilization changes the workflow

A direct card copy is the camera’s recorded file, not a stabilized export. GoPro says to use Quik’s automatic HyperSmooth stabilization before saving if you want stabilization applied to the footage.

When to use the unstabilized original

  • Keep the original when you want an untouched source for later editing.
  • Use it when your editor or another workflow will handle stabilization.
  • Retain it as a backup before creating processed versions.

When to save a stabilized version in Quik

Use Quik when the clip needs GoPro’s automatic stabilization before you share or edit the saved result. The stabilization step is an additional output; it does not change the fact that a raw card copy remains available unless you delete it yourself.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Do not assume that copying a file to a computer automatically adds HyperSmooth. The manual specifically distinguishes direct card copies from footage saved through Quik’s stabilization workflow.

Rank #3
Sale
UGREEN SD Card Reader USB C, USB 3.0 Micro SD Card Reader
  • Super-Speed Data Transmission: Transfer a weekend’s worth of travel photos, 4K Trail Camera footage, or large project files in seconds with this Micro SD card reader — thanks to SuperSpeed USB 3.0 up to 5Gbps
  • Built for Photographers on the Move: Slim, lightweight, and stylish — this UGREEN SD card reader USB C is designed to fit easily in your camera bag or laptop sleeve. A reliable companion for photographers, videographers, and content creators on the go
  • Easy to Use: Plug-and-play with no drivers or power needed—just connect and transfer files instantly. Compatible with Windows, macOS, and most Android devices
  • 2-in-1 USB C & USB A: This USB C SD card reader with dual interfaces combined in one compact design offers versatile connectivity and convenience, compatible with PC laptops, tablets, iPhone 15/16/17 Pro/Pro Max, and other USB-C & USB-A devices
  • 2 Cards Work Simultaneously: UGREEN Micro SD Card Reader Adapter is able to read SD and microSD cards at the same time, which helps to avoid repeatedly plugging/unplugging and improves your efficiency

Optional automatic cloud upload

GoPro’s manual describes automatic upload as a subscription feature. The documented setup requires a GoPro Premium or Premium+ subscription, the camera connected to the Quik app, a Wi-Fi network and the camera connected to power.

How the cloud workflow differs

Cloud upload is designed for automatic backup and access through Quik rather than for replacing the local phone or card procedure. The original files remain on the camera after backup unless you enable Auto Clear.

Understand Auto Clear before enabling it

Auto Clear can remove files from the camera’s card after they have been uploaded. Treat it as a storage-management setting, not as a second backup. Confirm that the cloud copies are present and playable before relying on automatic deletion.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Regional limitation

The LIT HERO manual says cloud-based features, including Auto Upload and automatic highlight videos, are unavailable in China. Availability, subscription terms and pricing can change, so check GoPro’s current subscription information for your region before subscribing.

When cloud upload makes sense

  • You want footage backed up without manually removing the card.
  • You regularly access the same media through Quik on more than one device.
  • You are comfortable with the subscription requirement, Wi-Fi transfer time and the power requirement.

If you only need to move a few clips to a phone or copy files to a computer, the documented local methods are simpler and do not require a subscription.

Transfer checklist for a reliable copy

  1. Choose the destination first. Select Quik for phone access, an SD-card reader for a computer, or cloud upload for subscription-based backup.
  2. Check power and connections. Keep the camera on for phone pairing, keep wireless connections enabled, and connect the camera to power for automatic cloud upload.
  3. Keep an original. Do not erase the card immediately after a download or copy. Open the transferred clips first and confirm that the files are present and playable.
  4. Separate raw and processed files. A direct card copy is the original recording; a file saved after Quik stabilization is a separate output. Label folders accordingly so an unstabilized source is not mistaken for a finished export.
  5. Eject safely. Finish the computer copy and use the operating system’s safe-eject command before removing the reader. Put the card back in the camera only while the camera is powered off.

These checks prevent the most expensive mistakes: deleting the only copy, interrupting a card write, or expecting a raw file to include processing that Quik applies only when saving an output.

Troubleshooting phone transfers

Quik cannot find the camera

  1. Confirm that the LIT HERO is on and that you selected Pair Device from Dashboard, then swipe left.
  2. Check that both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are enabled on the phone.
  3. Close and reopen Quik, then repeat its on-screen pairing instructions.
  4. Keep the camera and phone nearby while the first pairing completes.

If the camera was previously paired to another phone, finish or remove that connection before attempting a new pairing. The manual’s documented requirement is an active Quik pairing with the phone’s wireless connections enabled.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The app opens but new clips do not appear

Open View Media and allow the app to inspect media on the camera’s SD card. If the clip is visible but not on the phone, select it and tap download. The manual distinguishes viewing media from saving a local copy.

Rank #4
uni SD Card Reader,High Speed USB C to Micro SD Memory Card Adapter USB 3.0 | Dual Slots, Memory Card Reader, for SD/Micro SD/SDHC/SDXC/MMC, Card Reader for MacBook Pro/Air, Chromebook, Android Galaxy
  • 【USB 3.0 + USB C】 Both interfaces support high-speed data transfer up to 5 Gbps, allowing you easily transfer 1G files in seconds. Dual Card Slots, support SDXC, SDHC, SD, MMC, RS-MMC, Micro SDXC, Micro SD and Micro SDHC cards from Camera/ Gopro/ Dash Cam/ Surveillance camera. Backwards compatible with USB 2.0 and USB 1.1. (📌Note: "SD"card and "Micro SD" card not included.)
  • 【Double duty】 Simultaneously reading and writing on two cards to save the constant plugging and pulling of plugs. Enjoy fast photo downloads, smooth video editing and fast 3D Printer file transfers. Double your productivity with simultaneous microSD/SD card access. View recordings of your security cameras, wildlife monitors, private surveillance cameras and car monitors instead of bringing them home to you.(📌Note:only reads and transfers data from the SD and TF card, not directly connect to the camera)
  • 【Plug and Play】uni Card Reader for camera memory card has handy covers at both ends to keep out liquid and dust. Its slim profile makes it easy to store in your camera bag or backpack, and the useful cord keeps it from getting lost and provides convenient access to micro/SD cards when needed. No driver is required in Windows 11/10/8/7/Vista or Mac OS X 10.2 and later. No additional power supply is required. (📌Note:Not compatible with “Lightning” port devices)
  • 【Wide Compatibility】Compatible with iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max, MacBook Pro (2023~2016), MacBook (2022~2015), iMac Pro (iMac), Acer Aspire Switch 12S/R13, Predator 15/17X, XPS 13/15/17, Alienware 13/15/17, Spectre x360, Microsoft Surface Pro, Book 2, Razer Blade 15/Stealth 13/Pro 17, Samsung Galaxy Tab Pro, S23/ S22 Ultra/ S21/ S20 and most other USB-C / A devices. (📌Note: SD Slot does not support CF express Type A/B/C Cards; SIM, XQD, MS Cards and Memory Stick)
  • 【No Camera Software Required】uni high speed Memory Card Reader connects directly to your Android phone's USB-C port, allowing you to instantly view your footage and manage photo videos without the need for additional apps or Wi-Fi connections. Share your experiences in real-time and never miss an exciting moment again! uni Micro SD USB Adapter with 24/7 customer service and effortless 18-month 𝗐𝖺𝗋𝗋𝖺𝗇𝗍𝗒. Please rest assured we stand behind our products and customers.

The download stops partway through

  • Keep the camera and phone powered on during the transfer.
  • Make sure the phone has enough free storage for the selected clips.
  • Retry with one short clip to determine whether the issue affects a particular file or the connection generally.
  • For a large batch, use the SD-card method instead of repeating a wireless transfer.

Troubleshooting computer transfers

The computer does not see the card

  1. Confirm that the camera was powered off before the card was removed.
  2. Remove and reseat the card in the reader or adapter.
  3. Try another compatible USB port or the computer’s built-in card slot.
  4. Check that the reader supports the card type and that the adapter is inserted in the correct orientation.

A reader that fits the computer but not the camera’s card will not solve the problem. Check both sides of the connection before replacing hardware.

Files copy but will not open

Copy the files again to a local folder and verify that the transfer completed before ejecting the card. Avoid deleting the card originals until the copied files open in the intended player or editor.

The computer copy looks less smooth than expected

First determine whether you are comparing a raw card file with a version processed by Quik. Direct copies are not HyperSmooth-stabilized; use Quik to save a stabilized output when that is the result you need.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Practical decision guide

Choose Quik on the phone when

  • You need a few clips ready for mobile sharing.
  • You do not have a card reader available.
  • You want Quik to create a stabilized version before saving.

Choose the SD card and computer when

  • You are moving many files.
  • You need computer storage for editing or long-term backup.
  • You want the original camera files without waiting for a wireless download.

Choose cloud upload when

  • You want automatic backup while the camera is connected to power and Wi-Fi.
  • You already use a Premium or Premium+ subscription.
  • You understand that Auto Clear can remove card files and that cloud features are unavailable in China.

Keep originals and backups organized

Use a simple two-copy rule: retain the camera-card originals until the phone or computer copy has been checked, then maintain a second copy somewhere separate from the working folder. Name folders by recording date or project so that clips downloaded at different times do not become one undifferentiated library.

For computer work, copy first and edit from the computer copy rather than repeatedly opening files from the camera card. For phone work, download only what you need when storage is limited, but do not confuse a clip visible in Quik with a clip that has been saved locally.

Firmware and app considerations

GoPro’s LIT HERO update page listed firmware version 2.10.00 on April 14, 2026. Firmware listings and app behavior can change, and updating is not required by the documented transfer procedure itself. If pairing or media access behaves differently from the labels above, check the current LIT HERO update information and the current Quik version before assuming the camera or card is defective.

The transfer instructions in this guide are based on GoPro’s LIT HERO User Manual (English, US), with product-page context for Quik sharing, stabilization and automatic uploads. Regional availability and subscription terms should be verified for the location where you use the camera.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a GoPro subscription to transfer LIT HERO videos to my phone?

No. Pair the camera with Quik using the phone’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, then download all new or selected media. A Premium or Premium+ subscription is required for the optional automatic cloud-upload workflow, not for ordinary local downloads.

Best Value
Acer SD Card Reader USB C, Dual Slots Type C to Memory Card Reader
  • 【Ultra High-Speed Transfer】Enjoy fast, stable transfers up to 5Gbps with our USB C 3.0 SD Card Reader. Compatible with USB 2.0/1.1, easily view and transfer files from security cams, wildlife monitors, car cams, or GoPro. (📌Note:Not compatible with “Lightning” and "USB-A" port devices)
  • 【Read & Write 2 Cards Simultaneously】This Micro SD Card Reader USB C lets you transfer, sync, and copy files between two cards at the same time—no need to keep plugging and unplugging. Supports up to 2TB, so you won’t run out of space. (📌Note: Thick cases may block full insertion.)
  • 【Thoughtful Design】The USBC to SD Card Reader cable is 15cm long, so you won't block the other ports of your computers. Ultra-lightweight and space-saving — ideal for travel, remote shoots, or mobile workstations. Slip it in your pocket and you’re good to go.(📌Note: "SD"card and "Micro SD" card not included)
  • 【Reliable Aluminum Cooling】Crafted with a high-grade aluminum alloy exterior, this SD Card to USB C Adapter offers excellent heat dissipation to keep internal components cool during long transfers. Enjoy consistent speed and enhanced device protection with every use.(📌Note: Not compatible with CF, SIM, V90, mini SD, MS, SDUC, UFS, XQD, credit Card, Type A/B/C Cards and SSD Cards)
  • 【Plug & Play Convenience】No drivers, no fuss. Just plug the reader into your USB-C port and you’re ready to transfer. The SD Card Reader for Laptop compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chrome OS.(📌Note: The phones and tablets must support "OTG" functionality)

Do I need a subscription to copy videos to a computer?

No. Power off the camera, remove the SD card, place it in a compatible reader or adapter, and copy the files. The computer method is a local card transfer and does not require cloud service.

Why is my computer copy not stabilized?

Direct files copied from the SD card are not HyperSmooth-stabilized. Use GoPro Quik to apply automatic HyperSmooth stabilization and save a separate stabilized output.

Can I download every new clip at once?

Yes. After pairing, tap Download in Quik to download all new footage available to the app. Use View Media when you want to select individual or multiple files.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

What kind of reader should I buy for computer transfer?

Use an SD-card reader or adapter that supports the LIT HERO’s card and matches the computer’s connection. A USB-C microSD card reader is a practical search phrase, but verify both card and port compatibility before purchasing.

Will Quik viewing automatically save a video to my phone?

Not necessarily. Quik can display media from the camera’s SD card, cloud storage or the app library. Select the clip and use the download command when you need a local phone copy.

Can Auto Clear delete my original LIT HERO files?

Yes. With Auto Clear enabled, files can be removed from the camera’s card after upload. Confirm that cloud copies are present and playable before relying on this setting, and keep another backup when the footage matters.

Why does cloud upload not work in my region?

GoPro’s LIT HERO manual says cloud features such as Auto Upload and automatic highlight videos are unavailable in China. Subscription terms and regional availability can change, so check GoPro’s current information for your location.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

The Bottom Line

For a phone, pair the LIT HERO in GoPro Quik with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled, then download all new or selected clips. For a computer, turn the camera off before removing the SD card, use a compatible reader or adapter, and copy the files. Keep the original card files until the destination copy is verified. Remember that direct card copies are not HyperSmooth-stabilized; use Quik when you need a stabilized export. Cloud upload is optional, subscription-based and subject to Wi-Fi, power and regional limits.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.