GoPro Hero7 Black
The action camera market has long been dominated by GoPro, but has it done enough with this new cam to hold onto the crown?
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Looking to extend its lead in the action camera market, GoPro’s new Hero7 Black brings a host of updates to the already ace Hero6. Focusing on making videos less shaky, GoPro has given us new tech called HyperSmooth. This built-in electronic stabilisation enables you to ditch the gimbal and still capture judder-free footage. Audio is better, and there’s a new TimeWarp function, gesture-based UI, and live streaming.
Impressively, these new features have been crammed into a case the exact same size and shape as its predecessor. The Hero7 is waterproof down to 10 metres, and you can expand that to an impressive 30 metres with an optional GoPro waterproof housing. Plus, there’s the massive selection of compatible mounts and extras that already work with the Hero7.
One of our favourite new features is the ability to record TimeWarp videos, which use GoPro’s image stabilisation to create moving timelapses (like you might see in a Casey Neistat vlog). They’re ideal to set the scene, convey time passing, or to add variety to an edited video.
The real star of the show is HyperSmooth stabilisation, which now works on all video up to 4K at 60fps. HyperSmooth does its job incredibly well, and doesn’t present any of the traditional warping or artifacts found on older GoPro cameras.
Audio recording capabilities have also been enhanced here, with built-in microphones able to capture more dynamic range (deeper lows, higher highs). There’s also software targeting and eliminating sound from vibrations.
A touchscreen sits on the rear of the Hero7, but the user interface has been redesigned. As a result the menus, modes and settings are far more simple to use, with intuitive gestures that can be easily picked up. You also get voice control, which is handy when you can’t reach the display or if you’re wearing gloves.
When you connect to the GoPro smartphone app, you’ll get live streaming. At launch you’ll be able to send video directly to Facebook Live (via your smartphone’s internet connection), with YouTube coming shortly after.
The GoPro Hero7 Black is undoubtedly the most powerful action camera the company has created. This year’s updates have made getting professional shots easier, rather than bumping specs. As a result, we reckon GoPro has done enough to retain the coveted action cam crown.