GoPro Hero Series: A Comparative Review

GoPro Hero Series: A Comparative Review

GoPro is one of the world's leading manufacturers of action cameras. Founded in 2002 by Nick Woodman, the company first gained popularity with extreme sports enthusiasts who wanted to capture their adventures from a first-person point of view.

The Hero camera line represents GoPro's flagship consumer products. First introduced in 2004, the Hero cameras are compact, durable devices designed to capture high-quality photos and videos during intense physical activities. Over the years, GoPro has continued to refine and upgrade the Hero series with new models that offer improved image quality, battery life, durability and video stabilization.

The Hero cameras are most known for their versatility and ability to mount virtually anywhere, making them the go-to choice for athletes, travelers, journalists and content creators who want to document experiences from unique and dynamic perspectives. While early models required an external case for protection, newer versions are waterproof and shockproof without any housing.

This article provides a comparative review of the latest GoPro Hero models, examining the evolution of features and capabilities across the product line.

Hero 5

The GoPro Hero 5 was released in September 2016 at a launch price of $399 USD. This model introduced several new features to the Hero line including:

  • Waterproof design without a housing (up to 33 feet)
  • Touch display
  • Voice control
  • GPS
  • Electronic image stabilization
  • 4K video up to 30fps
  • 12MP photos
  • RAW and WDR photo modes
  • Auto upload to cloud

The Hero 5 was the first GoPro that did not require an external housing for waterproofing. It could go directly in water up to 33 feet, making it much easier to use for activities like swimming and surfing.

The rear touch display made it simpler to frame shots and change settings without needing to connect to the app. Voice control was another handy feature that allowed hands-free operation.

While 4K video was limited to 30fps, the Hero 5 could shoot smooth stabilized 4K and 1080p footage. It also captured 12MP photos, RAW images, and had improved low-light performance.

Overall, the Hero 5 expanded the capabilities of GoPro cameras for a similar price point as previous models. It was a well-rounded action cam that set the stage for refinements in later versions.

Hero 6

The GoPro Hero 6 was released in September 2017 at a launch price of $499. It introduced several key improvements over the Hero 5 model:

  • 4K video at up to 60 fps, an upgrade from 30 fps on the Hero 5
  • Improved image stabilization with EIS (electronic image stabilization)
  • Faster wireless transfer and cloud uploads with 5G WiFi
  • Voice control for starting/stopping recording and changing modes
  • Improved dynamic range and low light performance
  • Waterproof to 33ft without a housing
  • GPS tagging and accelerometer data overlay
  • New QuikStories feature for auto-editing videos and photos

The Hero 6 built upon the strong foundation of the Hero 5 by boosting video capabilities to the next level with 4K60, while also improving audio quality and making sharing easier with faster WiFi. It quickly became the top choice for consumers looking for cutting edge action camera features without the high price tag of the professional product lines.

Hero 7

The GoPro Hero 7 was released in September 2018 for $399.99. It included several key new features compared to the previous Hero 6 model:

  • Hypersmooth Stabilization - The Hero 7 introduced GoPro's advanced electronic stabilization to deliver incredibly smooth video even during activities with lots of motion like biking, skiing, etc. This was a major upgrade over the Hero 6.

  • TimeWarp Video - The Hero 7 could capture stabilized time-lapse videos while moving around a scene. This created a unique "hyperlapse" effect.

  • Live Streaming - The Hero 7 added live streaming capabilities so users could share experiences as they happen. Live streaming required the GoPro Plus subscription.

  • Voice Control - Users could control the Hero 7 hands-free with voice commands like "GoPro take a photo". This allowed for easier operation during activities where you can't touch the camera.

  • Waterproof Without Housing - The Hero 7 was waterproof up to 33 feet without requiring a protective housing like previous models. This made it lighter and more compact.

The Hero 7 built upon the strengths of the Hero 6 with significant new software features and usability upgrades. It quickly became the top GoPro choice for activities like vlogging, action videos, and travel filming.

If you're interested in more details or considering purchasing the GoPro Hero 7, check out the GoPro Hero7 Black page for further information on specifications and current pricing. This model remains popular among action camera enthusiasts for its robust capabilities and innovative features that make capturing high-quality, dynamic videos easier than ever. Whether you're a seasoned pro looking to upgrade or a newcomer eager to experience the best in action camera technology, the GoPro Hero7 Black represents a significant leap forward in digital imaging performance.

Hero 8

The GoPro Hero 8 was released in October 2019 with a launch price of $399.99. Compared to the previous Hero 7 model, the Hero 8 introduced several key new features:

  • Redesigned frame - The Hero 8 has a built-in mounting frame that folds down and is more streamlined compared to the removable frames used on older models. This allowed GoPro to make the camera itself smaller and more pocketable.

  • Improved stabilization - HyperSmooth 2.0 stabilization was added, providing even smoother video footage, especially during activities with a lot of vibration like cycling or motorbiking.

  • Built-in mount fingers - The redesigned frame incorporates fold-out "fingers" that allow you to directly mount the Hero 8 to accessories without needing an additional frame.

  • TimeWarp 2.0 - An improved version of the timelapse + motion TimeWarp feature allows you to slow down the effect to real time at any point during recording.

  • LiveBurst capture - A new mode takes a burst of photos right before and after you press the shutter to ensure you capture the perfect moment.

  • SuperPhoto + HDR - Improved computational photography produces better detail and dynamic range in photos.

  • 4K/60p video - Maximum video resolution increased to 4K at 60 frames per second, up from 4K/30p on the Hero 7.

  • 1080p/240p - Slow motion capabilities boosted to 240fps at 1080p resolution.

  • Digital lenses - The Hero 8 offered new digital lenses like Narrow, Distortion-Free Linear and Wide Angle to alter the field of view.

  • Live streaming - Built-in live streaming capabilities to Facebook and YouTube.

  • Night lapse video - Ability to capture timelapse videos at night.

  • Custom presets - Preset combinations of settings can be saved for quick access to modes like Action, Cinematic or Slo-Mo shots.

  • Built-in microphone - Redesigned microphone provides better audio quality than previous models.

Hero 9

The GoPro Hero 9 was released in September 2020 at a launch price of $449.99. This model succeeded the Hero 8 and brought some key upgrades:

  • Larger battery with 30% more capacity than Hero 8
  • Front display added for the first time, making it easier to frame shots
  • Boosted frame rates - Up to 5K30 video and 20MP photos
  • HyperSmooth 3.0 with in-camera horizon leveling
  • TimeWarp 3.0 now in 5K with speed ramping
  • Live streaming capabilities in 1080p
  • Webcam mode to use GoPro as a webcam over USB
  • Improved HDR with SuperPhoto + HDR night lapse video
  • Removable lens cover to easily swap ND and polarizing filters
  • Max Lens Mod compatibility for adding effects like macro

The Hero 9 provided a noticeable upgrade over the Hero 8, especially with the addition of the front display and boosted battery life. The image quality and video stabilization also saw improvements to deliver GoPro's most versatile action camera at the time.

Hero 10

The GoPro Hero 10 was released in September 2022 with an initial retail price of $399.99. Compared to its predecessor, the Hero 9, the Hero 10 introduced several key upgrades:

  • New GP2 processor - The Hero 10 features GoPro's new GP2 chip, which enables 5.3K video recording at 60fps (up from 5K at 30fps on the Hero 9). The GP2 provides a big boost in performance that allows higher resolution and frame rate video.

  • Improved image stabilization - HyperSmooth 4.0 image stabilization on the Hero 10 gets a boost with improved algorithms to make video even smoother and steadier.

  • Faster frame rates in lower resolutions - The Hero 10 can shoot 2.7K video at 120fps and 1080p video at 240fps. This allows for high quality slow motion capture. The Hero 9 was limited to 60fps at 2.7K.

  • Improved low light performance - A new larger sensor and improved noise reduction delivers cleaner, better quality video in low light conditions.

  • Higher bit rate HEVC video - The Hero 10 records in HEVC format up to 78Mbps, compared to 60Mbps on the Hero 9. This allows more information to be captured per frame.

  • Front display - The Hero 10 adds a 1.4" color display on the front for the first time, making it easier to frame shots.

  • Larger battery - It has a 1720mAh battery which provides more recording time on a single charge compared to the Hero 9's 1625mAh battery.

Overall, the Hero 10 provides a significant upgrade over the Hero 9 with major improvements to performance, image quality, stabilization and features. It's the most advanced GoPro yet upon its release.

If you're interested in this latest GoPro model, check out the GoPro HERO10 Black. It is designed for anyone seeking top-tier performance in an action camera, offering features like real-time performance feedback through the new front display and extended battery life for longer shooting sessions. The HERO10 Black is ideal for professionals and enthusiasts alike who demand the very best in image quality and cutting-edge technology in their gear.

Image Quality

The GoPro Hero series has seen steady improvements in image quality over the years. The early models like the Hero 5 and Hero 6 offered 12MP photos and 4K video recording at 30 fps. The image sensor and processing were fairly basic, resulting in decent image quality but struggles in low light situations.

Later models like the Hero 7 and Hero 8 bumped the resolution up to 12MP and introduced improved HDR for handling high contrast scenes. The Hero 9 and Hero 10 now offer 20MP still photos, 5K video recording, and significantly better low light performance. They utilize a new 23MP sensor and updated GP1 processing chip. This allows them to shoot sharp, clean images even in dim lighting conditions up to ISO 3200. Higher frame rates up to 240 fps are now possible as well at lower resolutions.

Overall, the latest Hero 10 model clearly delivers superior image quality compared to earlier versions. The boost in resolution, HDR capabilities, low light performance and frame rates are significant upgrades. However, the Hero 7 and 8 still produce nice looking 4K video and 12MP photos. Unless needing 5K video or 20MP photos, they remain solid options. But the Hero 10 certainly raises the bar for GoPro image quality.

Video Features

The GoPro Hero series has seen major improvements in video capabilities over the years. Three key video features that stand out are image stabilization, zoom, and slow motion capabilities.

Stabilization

Image stabilization has improved dramatically from the early Hero models to the latest Hero 10. The Hero 5 introduced basic electronic image stabilization to help smooth out shaky footage. The Hero 7 introduced HyperSmooth stabilization, taking smooth footage to the next level. The Hero 9 boosted stabilization further with Horizon Leveling to keep footage steady even during extreme movements. The Hero 10 provides the best stabilization yet with HyperSmooth 4.0 and horizon leveling up to 45 degrees.

Zoom

Digital zoom was first introduced on the Hero 7, enabling users to zoom in up to 2x while recording video. The Hero 8 increased this to 4x zoom. The Hero 9 again upped zoom capability to 6x. Now, the Hero 10 allows up to 8x zoom during recording for capturing far away subjects. This makes the latest model much more versatile.

Slow Motion

Slow motion video enables capturing fast action and slowing it down for dramatic effect. The Hero 5 introduced 1080p video at up to 120fps. The Hero 6 doubled that to 240fps at 1080p. The Hero 7 introduced slo-mo at 4K resolution up to 60fps. The Hero 8 enabled 240fps at 2.7K resolution. Now, the Hero 10 pushes slow motion even further, allowing up to 240fps at 5.3K resolution for stunning high-def slo-mo. The latest model is a slow motion powerhouse.

Conclusion

The GoPro Hero series has come a long way since the first Hero camera was introduced in 2004. Over the years, GoPro has continued to innovate and push the boundaries of action camera technology.

When looking at the evolution of the Hero series, there are clear improvements in image quality, video capabilities, durability and form factor. The early Hero models like the Hero 3 and Hero 4 produced decent quality HD video. But the image quality really took a leap forward with the Hero 5's ability to shoot in 4K. Subsequent models like the Hero 7 and Hero 8 continued improving stabilization, frame rates and hyperlapse features. The Hero 9 brought a boost in image stabilization and 5K video. And the Hero 10 pushed boundaries again with 5.3K video at 60fps.

For adrenaline junkies, athletes and adventurers, the choice of which Hero to buy really depends on your needs and budget. The latest models like the Hero 10 have the most advanced features and video quality. But earlier models like the Hero 7 and 8 still produce great 4K footage at more affordable prices. Unless you need bleeding-edge video performance, these earlier models can save you money.

Ultimately the GoPro Hero series has proven itself as the market leader in action cameras. With each new iteration, GoPro manages to meaningfully improve camera capabilities. So whatever your budget, there's likely a GoPro action camera that's right for your next adventure.