Which GoPro Should I Get: Comparison of the Best Action Cameras
GoPros are synonymous with action cameras. These small and rugged devices offer top notch video and image quality at a reasonable price point. There are a lot of GoPro cameras in the market, and it can get a little confusing on which device to get.
The right action camera for you might not necessarily be the latest model of the most expensive one. An example is the Hero 8 Black’s capability to record video with a bitrate of 100 Mbps. This is, in essence, an impressive feature, since you will get access to a lot more detail. However, the drawback of this is file size. So, unless you are a professional and have the hardware to store and edit these videos, it may not be the best one for you.
For most people and casual users, the ability to shoot high quality 1080p, even 1440p footage, is enough. These are a lot easier to edit, and file sizes are reasonable that you will not have a problem running out of disk space in the middle of your trip. The great news is that a lot of other GoPro models have these capabilities, and you can surely get either older generation Blacks or the newer Hero 7 Silver.
What the newer and more premium models do have is GoPro’s HyperSmooth technology, which stabilizes your shots, making them buttery smooth. This is definitely a feature to think about when shopping for the action camera that is right for you.
Varying Capabilities
When it comes to GoPro action cameras, what you need to remember is that they all have different capabilities. Specs and features differ from each model and variant, making this an advantage since no matter what your budget or needs are, there is a camera that will meet that perfectly.
The Best GoPro Cameras in 2020
GOPRO HERO 8 BLACK – The Ultimate Action Camera
Retail Price: $399
GoPro is undoubtedly the most popular name when it comes to action cameras, and they have definitely delivered with their latest model – the Hero 8 Black. It is the best one in the business today.
In terms of its looks, the Hero 8 Black might look like the previous generation. They do share similar features since the Hero 7 Black is an excellent action camera. However, looking deeper, you will notice a lot of upgrades and realize that the latest iteration is a totally different beast of its own. For one, it does come with a built-in mounting system that allows you to attach it on tripods without clipping it into a cage.
This camera also comes with an improved microphone that significantly reduces wind noise, especially when you are moving at high speeds. The new Hero 8 Black features GoPro’s latest stabilization system, HyperSmooth 2.0, giving you ultra stable shots in any conditions. This version is more responsive and reliable than the original HyperSmooth tech.
The most significant difference is with video recording, where the Hero 8 Black, you can capture in 4K at 60 fps at a bitrate of up to 100 Mbps. The camera can achieve a lot more detail, giving you a lot to work with if you want to edit them.
GoPro also introduced its MediaMods system that gives the Hero 8 Black a lot of additional tools that will help you produce professional videos. The system allows you to attach external microphones, forward-facing displays, even lighting so you can shoot in dark conditions.
The GoPro Hero 8 is definitely one of the best action cameras in the market today. If you are looking to capture all your outdoor activities, there is no better camera out there that can deliver the quality and smoothness that you are looking for.
| Weight | Waterproof | 4K Video | 1080p Video | 720p Video | Photo | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 126 g | 10 m | Up to 60 fps | Up to 240 fps | Up to 240 fps | 12 MP | 1-3 hours |
GOPRO HERO 7 BLACK – Premium Camera That Still Offers Great Value
Retail Price: $319
It might not be the best action camera in 2020, but there was a time when it was on top until the Hero 8 Black came along. Now, it is no longer the greatest, but with the significant price cuts, it still performs among the best. The Hero 7 Black now gives you a lot more value because of its much lower price point and still retaining its premium features.
One of the innovations of the Hero 7 Black is the first iteration of GoPro’s HyperSmooth technology, and it is effective at capturing stable footage no matter the situation. The results are stunning and come out as if a camera shot the footage on a gimbal.
The main difference between the two is that you are not able to use HyperSmooth in all video modes, unlike the Hero 8 Black. It also does not come with the ability for you to shoot at 100 Mbps bit rate, but for most users, this is not a deal breaker.
The Hero 7 Black, in 2020, is still an excellent action camera that has features that are enough for a majority of users at a very sensible price.
| Weight | Waterproof | 4K Video | 1080p Video | 720p Video | Photo | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 118 g | 10 m | Up to 60 fps | Up to 240 fps | Up to 240 fps | 12 MP | 1-3 hours |
GOPRO MAX – Best 360 Camera
Retail Price: $498
The GoPro Max is not your usual action camera. Unlike the rest of the GoPro line, it comes with two fisheye lenses mounted on the front and back of the camera. These two lenses allow the device to shoot and record videos all at once.
There are other existing 360 cameras before the Max, but in usual GoPro fashion, they have pushed it to the next level giving you the capability to capture videos with insane quality and detail. When shooting in 360 modes, the Max automatically stitches the two scenes together so you can instantly share them, including live stream your videos.
You will be able to upload your videos on YouTube, Facebook, or other platforms as an interactive 5.6k, 30 fps 360 videos that viewers can enjoy. They will be able to pan around by swiping around or on a VR headset. The videos you capture with the Max gives you the capability to “reframe” it by turning it into a regular 1080p footage.
On top of the 360 features of the Max, you can also use it as a regular action camera by using either of its two lenses. This gives you access to its stabilization system, Max HyperSmooth, keeping your footage incredibly smooth and stable at all times.
The GoPro Max is a flexible camera that can do a lot of things at the same time. It may not be better than the Hero 8 Black, but it does so much more. If you love its 360 modes, then this is the camera that you want.
| Weight | Waterproof | 4K Video | 1080p Video | 720p Video | Photo | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 154 g | 5 m | Up to 30 fps | Up to 60 fps | Up to 60 fps | 16.6 MP 360 | 1 hour |
GOPRO HERO 7 SILVER – Action Camera with Solid Features
Retail Price: $185
The GoPro Hero 7 Silver is the most reasonably priced action camera that is the most feature-packed. Its performance comes close to its more premium counterpart but at a more affordable level.
One of the main differences between the Hero 7 Black and the Silver version is that it does not have the front status LCD. It shoots 4K video, but at only 30 fps instead of 60. It also does not come with the Black’s HyperSmooth stabilization system. It comes with a built-in battery, which does not allow you to carry a spare so you can quickly swap them to extend your shooting sessions.
The video quality captured by the Hero 7 Silver is still impressive. The ability to shoot at 4K, even at just 30 fps, is excellent, and not a lot of other action cameras can do. It is as rugged and waterproof, so you can still use it to shoot all your outdoor adventures.
If you are looking for a GoPro, but your budget does not allow you for a Hero 7 or Hero 8 Black, this is the device that is worth considering.
| Weight | Waterproof | 4K Video | 1080p Video | 720p Video | Photo | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 118 g | 10 m | Up to 30 fps | Up to 60 fps | Up to 60 fps | 10 MP | 1-3 hours |
GOPRO HERO 7 WHITE – Best Bargain Action Camera
Retail Price: $199
The GoPro Hero 7 White is one of the best bargain action cameras in the market. It does not have all the capabilities of the feature-packed Hero 7 Black, but with its price, it is able to give you that GoPro experience. The unbeatable reliable, and robust build headlines by its 10 m waterproof capabilities and the rugged design you expect from an action camera.
This is the perfect camera for weekend adventure seekers or if you just want to film yourself hiking or cycling. Unless you are a professional and want the added premium features of both the Silver and Black versions, then this action cam is just right for your needs.
It does not support 4K videos, but 1440p at 60 fps is definitely more than enough. The camera is still going to deliver crisp and detailed videos and photos. You also have access to QuikStories, so you will not need to edit your videos if you are just looking to share it on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
The GoPro Hero 7 White is the action camera to get if you are not a professional content creator but just want to document all your adventures. At half the price of the Hero 8 Black, this is the best camera for weekend adventurers who simply want to create memories.
| Weight | Waterproof | 4K Video | 1080p Video | 720p Video | Photo | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 92 g | 10 m | Up to 60 fps | Up to 60 fps | N/A | 10 MP | 1-3 hours |
GOPRO HERO 6 BLACK – Best Bargain Premium GoPro
Retail Price: $299
The GoPro Hero 6 Black may not be the latest version, but it still offers decent value compared to other action cameras in the market. One thing that goes for this camera is that since it is a Black version, you get all the premium features like spare batteries and a lot of accessory support to improve your overall experience.
The Hero 6 Black may not have the HyperSmooth technology of the Hero 7 and Hero 8 Black models, but it does come with a system that eventually became GoPro’s premium stabilization tech. With it, you are still able to shoot impressively smooth shots, although not as buttery smooth as its newer counterparts.
What you get with this action camera is its 4K shooting support of up to 60 fps. If you are not looking for the other bells and whistles of the newer models, the barebones features of the Hero 6 Black are definitely enough for your adventure recording needs.
Even in 2020, this action camera is still versatile and continues to deliver shots that you expect from a high-end GoPro.
| Weight | Waterproof | 4K Video | 1080p Video | 720p Video | Photo | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 118 g | 10 m | Up to 60 fps | Up to 240 fps | Up to 240 fps | 12 MP | 1-3 hours |
GOPRO HERO 5 BLACK – Budget Alternative Loaded with Features
Retail Price: $250
Even though the GoPro Hero 5 Black is a much older model, it is still an excellent pick-up, especially if you are on a budget. It has 4K shooting capabilities, just not at 60 fps. However, if 30 fps is enough for you, this is still a reliable action camera. You also do not get the next-level stabilization technology on the later models, but it still can capture all of your adventures.
Since it is a Black version, it has added features like a 2-inch touchscreen and a waterproof rating of up to 10 meters. You can enjoy voice controls and GPS, which is a staple in the latest GoPros, even the Hero 8 Black.
The Hero 5 Black also comes with ProTune, which you will not be able to find on the Hero 7 Silver or White versions. Lastly, it is equipped with a removable battery so you can quickly swap it to extend your sessions.
Overall, this action camera is an excellent all-rounder with first-class features. The price is as reasonable as you can get with a quality action camera.
| Weight | Waterproof | 4K Video | 1080p Video | 720p Video | Photo | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 118 g | 10 m | Up to 30 fps | Up to 120 fps | Up to 240 fps | 12 MP | 1-3 hours |
GOPRO FUSION – Alternative 360 Action Camera
Retail Price: $219
The GoPro Fusion is a rugged 360 action camera to capture all your adventures from every angle. It is also rated waterproof up to 5 meters so it can easily deal with any activity you subject it to. As a 360 camera, it shoots using two lenses that shoot at 5.2K at 30 fps and is seamlessly stitched so you can instantly share it on social media.
For controls, the Fusion does not come with a touchscreen, but it has a shutter button and supports voice control so you can instantly shoot as soon as you see it. You can mount it on standard GoPro mounts, and on top of that, it comes with a Fusion grip tripod so you can leave it in the middle of the action, so it captures every scene.
The Fusion is a quality 360 action camera that is capable of recording all your adventures allowing you to relive it, especially using a VR headset.
| Weight | Waterproof | 4K Video | 1080p Video | 720p Video | Photo | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 220 g | 5 m | Up to 30 fps | Up to 30 fps | N/A | 18 MP | 1 hour |
Detailed Comparison of the Best GoPro Cameras
Design and Build
GoPro cameras always had a design philosophy, and that is compact and rugged devices that you can bring with you on just about any adventure you can think of. They may be small, but inside the package lies what makes these cameras unique – their cameras that can shoot high quality videos at high resolutions and frame rates.
| Hero 7 White | Hero 7 Silver | Hero 7 Black | Hero 8 Black | GoPro MAX | GoPro Fusion | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 62.3 W x 44.9 H x 28.3 D mm | 62.3 W x 44.9 H x 28.3 D mm | 62.3 W x 44.9 H x 33 D mm | 66.3 W x 48.6 H x 28.4 D mm | 64 W x 69 H x 25 D mm | 74 W x 75 H x 40 D mm |
| Weight | 92.4 g | 94.4 g | 116 g | 126 g | 154 g | 220 g |
| Status Screen | NO | NO | YES | YES | NO | YES |
| Touch Display | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | NO |
| GP1 Chip | NO | NO | YES | YES | YES | NO |
| HDMI Port | NO | NO | YES | NO | NO | NO |
| USB Port | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C | USB-C |
| Memory Storage | MicroSD at least Class 10/UHS-1 | MicroSD at least Class 10/UHS-1 | MicroSD at least Class 10/UHS-1 | MicroSD at least Class 10/UHS-1 | MicroSD at least Class 10/UHS-II | 2 MicroSD Cards at least Class 10/UHS-II |
| Microphones | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 6 | 4 |
| LEDs | 2 | 2 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Battery | Built-in | Built-in | Removable 1220 mAh Rechargeable | Removable 1220 mAh Rechargeable | Removable 1600 mAh Rechargeable | Removable 2620 mAh Rechargeable |
| Replaceable Lens | NO | NO | YES | NO | NO | NO |
Our Pick: GoPro Hero 8 Black for its better overall design
Features
As a rugged action and adventure camera that helps you record all of your activities, GoPros come with their own set of features. There are standards like waterproof capabilities and the touchscreen, but there are also innovations that only the newer ones have like HyperSmooth stabilization.
| Hero 7 White | Hero 7 Silver | Hero 7 Black | Hero 8 Black | GoPro MAX | GoPro Fusion | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Photo | 10 MP | 10 MP with WDR | 12 MP with SuperPhoto | 12 MP + SuperPhoto & Improved HDR | 16.6 MP 360 Photo & 5.5 MP HERO Mode | 16.6 MP, 18 MP (Raw Capture) |
| Video | 1080p, 60 fps | 4K, 30 fps | 4K, 60 fps | 4K, 60 fps | 5.6K, 30 fps | 5.2K, 30 fps |
| Spherical Capture | NO | NO | NO | NO | YES | YES |
| Over Capture | NO | NO | NO | NO | NO | YES |
| Reframe | NO | NO | NO | NO | YES | NO |
| Battery | Built-in | Built-in | Removable | Removable | Removable | Removable |
| Waterproof | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| Touchscreen | 2-inch Display | 2-inch Display | 2-inch Display | 2-inch Display | 2-inch Display | NO |
| Video Stabilization | Standard | Standard | HyperSmooth | HyperSmooth 2.0 | Spherical | Max HyperSmooth |
| Voice Control | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| Wake on Voice | NO | NO | YES | YES | NO | NO |
| Auto Offload to Phone | YES | YES | YES | YES | NO | NO |
| Time Lapse Video | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| Slow Motion | 2x | 2x | 8x | 8x | 2x | 2x |
| Live Streaming | NO | NO | YES | YES | HERO Mode Only | NO |
| SuperPhoto | NO | NO | YES | YES | NO | NO |
| TimeWarp Video | NO | NO | YES | NO | YES | NO |
| TimeWarp Video 2.0 | NO | NO | NO | YES | YES | NO |
| GP1 Chip | NO | NO | YES | YES | YES | NO |
| QuikStories | YES | YES | YES | YES | NO | NO |
| Advanced Metadata | NO | NO | YES | YES | HERO Mode Only | NO |
| Protune | NO | NO | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| Karma Compatible | NO | NO | YES | NO | NO | NO |
| Super Suit Compatible | NO | NO | YES | YES | NO | NO |
Our Pick: GoPro Hero 8 Black for upgraded features like HyperSmooth 2.0 and HDR
Audio Features
As a video camera, GoPros can also record audio. Although not necessarily the best, the microphones that they come with are decent enough that you can use them for a lot of projects. You can also add external microphones to improve sound quality. The GoPro Hero 8 Black does have a media mod available that transforms the entire device into a complete one that you can use for professional work.
| Hero 7 White | Hero 7 Silver | Hero 7 Black | Hero 8 Black | GoPro MAX | GoPro Fusion | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced Wind Reduction | 2-Mic Processing | 2-Mic Processing | 3-Mic Processing | 3-Mic Processing | 6-mic Processing | 4-Mic Processing |
| Stereo Audio | NO | NO | YES | YES | YES | NO |
| 360 Audio | NO | NO | NO | NO | YES | YES |
| RAW Audio Capture | NO | NO | .wav Format | YES | HERO Mode Only | NO |
| Audio Mic In | NO | NO | Pro 3.5 mm Mic Adapter | NO | NO | NO |
Our Pick: GoPro Hero 8 Black or the raw audio recording support
Connectivity
One of the hallmarks of this tiny device is its connectivity capabilities. Yes, all of the GoPros have your requisite Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections, allowing you to connect with other devices seamlessly. You can then connect your camera to the GoPro app unlocking a lot more features that your camera cannot do by itself.
| Hero 7 White | Hero 7 Silver | Hero 7 Black | Hero 8 Black | GoPro MAX | GoPro Fusion | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi + Bluetooth | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| GoPro App | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| Upload to Cloud | With GoPro Plus | With GoPro Plus | With GoPro Plus | With GoPro Plus | With GoPro Plus | NO |
| GPS | NO | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| HDMI Video Out | NO | NO | With Micro HDMI Cable | With Media Mod | NO | NO |
Our Pick: GoPro Hero 8 Black for its Media Mod giving you better connectivity features
Video Features
This is the main feature why you decide to get a GoPro. It is because of the impressive video that any GoPro can offer you. Of course, you want the very best like 60 fps in 4K, but sometimes 1440p should do the trick.
FOV
60, 30 fps60, 30, 24 fps60, 30, 24 fps
| Hero 7 White | Hero 7 Silver | Hero 7 Black | Hero 8 Black | GoPro MAX | GoPro Fusion | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.6K Resolution | 30, 24 fps | |||||
| 5.2K Resolution | 30 fps | |||||
| 4K Resolution | ||||||
| — SuperView FOV | 30, 24 fps | 30, 24 fps | ||||
| 4K (4:3 Aspect Ratio) | ||||||
| — Wide FOV | 30, 24 fps | 30, 24 fps | ||||
| 3K Resolution | 60 fps | |||||
| 2.7K Resolution | ||||||
| — Wide FOV | 120, 60, 30, 24 fps | 120, 60, 30, 24 fps | ||||
| — SuperView FOV | 60, 30, 24 fps | 60, 30, 24 fps | ||||
| — Linear FOV | 60, 30, 24 fps | 60, 30, 24 fps | ||||
| 2.7K (4:3 Aspect Ratio) | ||||||
| — Wide FOV | 60, 30, 24 fps | 60, 30, 24 fps | ||||
| — Linear FOV | 30, 24 fps | 30, 24 fps | ||||
| 1440p Resoluion | ||||||
| — Max SuperView | 60, 30, 24 fps | |||||
| — Wide FOV | 60, 30 fps | 60, 30 fps | 120, 60, 30, 24 fps | 120, 60, 30, 24 fps | 60, 30, 24 fps | |
| — Linear FOV | 60, 30, 24 fps | 60, 30, 24 fps | ||||
| — Narrow FOV | 60, 30, 24 fps | |||||
| 1080p Resolution | ||||||
| — Max SuperView | 60, 30, 24 fps | |||||
| — Wide FOV | 60, 30 fps | 60, 30 fps | 240, 120, 60, 30, 24 fps | 240, 120, 60, 30, 24 fps | 60, 30, 24 fps | |
| — SuperView FOV | 120, 60, 30, 24 fps | 120, 60, 30, 24 fps | 60, 30, 24 fps | |||
| — Linear FOV | 120, 60, 30, 24 fps | 120, 60, 30, 24 fps | 60, 30, 24 fps | |||
| 960p Resolution | ||||||
| — Wide FOV | 240, 120 fps | |||||
| 720p Resolution | ||||||
| — Wide FOV | 240, 60 fps | |||||
| — Linear FOV | 60 fps | |||||
| Video File Format | MP4 (H.264) | MP4 (H.264) | MP4 (H.264/AVC), MP4 (H.265/HVEC) | MP4 (H.264/AVC), MP4 (H.265/HVEC) | 360 Video: .360 HEVC, HERO Video: MP4 (H.264/AVC), MP4 (H.265/HEVC). | MP4 (H.264) |
| Max Video Bit Rate | 40 Mb/s (1440p) | 60 Mb/s (4K) | 78 Mb/s (4K) | 100Mbps (4K) | 78Mbps (1440p) | 120 Mb/s (Protune) |
| Auto Low Light | YES | YES | ||||
| Exposure Control | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
Our Pick: GoPro Hero 8 Black for its 100 Mbps recording bitrate capability in 4K
Photo Features
GoPros are not just video cameras, they capture excellent stills, too. Do not let the megapixel count fool you, though, since it is not the only stat to check out if a device can capture excellent photos no matter the situation. Although GoPro cameras are not really known for their photographs, they are up there with the best.
| Hero 7 White | Hero 7 Silver | Hero 7 Black | Hero 8 Black | GoPro MAX | GoPro Fusion | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Megapixels | 10 MP | 10 MP | 12 MP | 12 MP | 16.6 MP 360 Photo & 5.5 MP HERO Mode | 16.6 MP, 18 MP (Raw Capture) |
| Burst Rates | 15/1 | 15/1 | Auto, 30/1, 30/2, 30/3, 30/6, 10/1, 10/2, 10/3, 5/1, 3/1 | Auto, 60/10s, 30/10s, 60/6s, 30/6s, 30/3s, 10/3s, 30,1s, 10/1s, 5/1s, 3/1s | NO | Auto, 30/1, 30/2, 30/3, 30/6, 10/1, 10/2, 10/3, 5/1, 3/1 |
| Time Lapse Photo Intervals | NO | NO | 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 30, 60 seconds | 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 30, 60 seconds; 1, 2, 5, 30, 60 minutes | HERO mode:.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 30, 60 | 0.5, 1, 2, 5, 10, 30, 60 seconds |
| Continuous Photo Capture | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | NO |
| Super Photo | NO | NO | YES | YES (with Improved HDR) | NO | NO |
| RAW Photo Capture | NO | NO | YES | YES | NO | YES, 16.6 MP, 18 MP |
| Exposure Control | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | NO |
Our Pick: GoPro Hero 8 Black for its improved HDR feature
Photo Modes
GoPros’ photo modes are one of the reasons why their cameras are outstanding. These are features that a lot of other premium cameras have. With these modes, you are able to add a different dimension to your photographs.
| Hero 7 White | Hero 7 Silver | Hero 7 Black | Hero 8 Black | GoPro MAX | GoPro Fusion | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Photo | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| Burst Mode | YES | YES | YES | YES | NO | YES |
| Night Photo | NO | NO | YES | YES | NO | YES |
| Video | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| Looping NO NO YES NO NO NO | NO | NO | YES | NO | NO | NO |
| Time Lapse Photo | NO | NO | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| Time Lapse Video | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES | YES |
| TimeWarp Video | NO | YES | NO | NO | NO | NO |
| TimeWarp Video 2.0 | NO | NO | NO | YES | Max TimeWarp | NO |
| Night Lapse Photo | NO | NO | YES | YES | YES | NO |
| Slow Motion | YES, 2x | YES, 2x | YES, 8x | YES, 8x | YES, 2x | YES, 2x |
| Photo Timer | YES | YES | YES | YES | NO | YES |
Our Pick: GoPro Hero 7 & Hero 8 Black for their improved photo features
Which GoPro Offers the Most Value
Best Overall Action Camera
| GOPRO HERO 8 BLACK |
|---|
| ✔ Improved stabilization with HyperSmooth 2.0 |
| ✔ Improved time lapse with TimeWarp |
| ✔ Upgraded HDR on your still photos |
| ✔ Live streaming capabilities |
| $399 CHECK PRICE |
If you are looking for the latest and greatest in action camera technology, the Hero 8 Black is the one for you. It is certainly not the most affordable on this list, but if you do consider the brand new features like the HyperSmooth 2.0 and TimeWarp valuable, then you will have no problem spending the extra cash for this camera.
The Hero 8 Black is the best GoPro that you can get this 2020, and its price shows that. You can surely wait for some discounts, but it is not going to come anytime soon.
Best Overall Value
| GOPRO HERO 7 BLACK |
|---|
| ✔ Excellent value for its premium features |
| ✔ High quality 4K video recording |
| ✔ 1080p slow-mo playback |
| ✔ Outstanding stabilization capabilities |
| ✔ Best still photo camera |
| $319 CHECK PRICE |
The GoPro Hero 7 Black is from a previous generation, but since its features closely match the latest version, it wins as our pick as the one that offers the most value. If you are not concerned with incremental upgrades like the one from HyperSmooth to the 2.0 version, then this is a camera that will satisfy your active lifestyle requirements.
The Hero 7 Black is, after all, a premium camera, and is definitely one of the best in the market if you are looking for one this 2020. Packed with features, you will have no problem recording and sharing your footage with the world with this camera.
Since it is a previous generation model, sales and discounts usually come a lot easier for the Hero 7 Black than the Hero 8 Black. So, if you are waiting for a deal, you will likely find one for this camera.
Best 360 Camera
| GOPRO MAX |
|---|
| ✔ Super-stabilized 360 video |
| ✔ Customizable video quality |
| ✔ Packed with professional features |
| $498 CHECK PRICE |
There is not a lot of competition in the 360 camera department, there are from other manufacturers, but nothing beats a GoPro. They do have a lot of experience when it comes to their wide-angle action cameras, and all of it translated beautifully with the GoPro Max. With the Max, you can now record super stable 360 videos of all your adventures.
GoPro takes 360 videos to the next level with its Max camera. It has the potential to change vlogging in the future.
Best Midrange Value
| GOPRO HERO 7 SILVER |
|---|
| ✔ Affordable 4K video recording |
| ✔ Improved stabilization technology |
| ✔ Upgraded still camera |
| ✔ Excellent value for your money |
| $185 CHECK PRICE |
The GoPro Hero 7 Silver is a mid-range option that offers excellent value. It does not have the premium features of the Black version, but it definitely comes close. The critical number to look at with the Hero 7 Silver is its price. You do get quite a bit of performance and video quality at its price point.
This action camera is undoubtedly a solid pick if you are looking to record in 4K with decent stabilization that you can use for your videos.
Best Budget Value
| GOPRO HERO 6 BLACK |
|---|
| ✔ Excellent footage in 4K at 60 fps |
| ✔ Smooth slow-mo playback at 1080p |
| ✔ Good stabilization before HyperSmooth |
| $299 CHECK PRICE |
If you want a feature-packed action camera at a fraction of the price of the current generation, you need to take a look at the GoPro Hero 6 Black. You still get premium 4K footage at 60 fps, and slow-mo shots that you expect from a GoPro Black. It does not come with HyperSmooth, but its predecessor can definitely keep up with its more modern iteration.
Smooth, high resolution videos, if this is what you are looking for in a camera, and have a limited budget, the GoPro Hero 6 Black is still an excellent choice in 2020.
The Best GoPro Action Camera to Get
The Best GoPro for you really depends on what you are looking for. Most of the high end Black versions, especially the last couple of generations, do support 4K videos at 60 fps. If that is the bare minimum that you are looking for, then you can think about saving a bit and get the Hero 6 Black. However, there are also instances when you do need the added features of the latest generation, and the Hero 8 Black is your device of choice.
The budget also is a factor when you are in the market for an action camera, especially a GoPro. The latest models do come at a premium. If you are a professional and are looking for the latest features to make your life a lot easier, then getting the Hero 8 Black might be the better choice.
There is also room for the Hero 7 Silver. This camera is perfect for weekend adventurers who take advantage of their days off and want to record every moment of it. You still get 4K recording and stabilization, but it may not be as polished as the Black version.
There is definitely a GoPro model for you, depending on your needs and budget. If money is no object, then get the latest one, even the Max is something to consider. GoPro has a wide range of selection, and there is undoubtedly one that is going to be the best one for you.
Wrap Up
If you are looking for the best of the best action camera, the most natural device to recommend is the Hero 8 Black. It films in 4K at 60 fps making your memories a lot more detailed when you view them later on. It also can do 240 fps slow-motion shots at 1080p and comes with impressive stabilization. The Hero 8 Black is a professional-level camera that can do it all disguised in a small package.
The GoPro Max is also a camera to consider if you are looking for a high performing 360 camera. This is a device that can turn video production on its head with its easy to use 360 features. Imagine live streaming to a VR audience.
Ultimately, the more you spend, the more features you get. The great thing with GoPros is that their older generation action cameras are still available on sale, and you can get them for a discount and enjoy their premium features. You can get a lot of value out of them.
Whether you are a vlogger who produces videos for your audience or an adrenaline junkie who wants to record every adventure or a weekend warrior who is looking to document your trips, GoPros are all about keeping memories, and these are the best cameras to do that for you.