With the rise of image stabilisation in smartphones, the importance of the action camera market has reduced somewhat in recent years. After all, your phone is likely water-resistant and something you already carry around with you. But that said, there are still situations where an action camera is preferable, particularly if you want to mount it easily to your bike, helmet, drone or chest. And there’s one company that does action cameras better than the others: GoPro.
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While there’s more competition now, GoPro still has arguably the best all-around ecosystem of action cameras. And thanks to some product lines refreshing over the past couple of years, the sheer number of options has reduced to make choosing one much easier. So which GoPro should you buy?
What GoPro offers
GoPro’s entire lineup has gone through something of a streamlining process and complete refresh over the past couple of years. Whereas prior years saw various models, including a budget model and a tiny Session camera, the company now only offers versions of the flagship Hero series and the 360-degree Max.
In 2018, it moved around its product line quite a bit to achieve this streamlining, and further slimmed it down in 2019 with the launch of the Hero 8 and Max. In 2020 and 2021, that process was refined further. Although, older models are still available from third party retailers.
GoPro also offers an array of accessories, from small handheld mounts that act as tripods, to floating cases and handles. It also has a great, easy to use mobile app for editing. As an ecosystem goes, it’s pretty unbeatable.
Best GoPro Cameras in 2022
- GoPro Hero 11 Black
- GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini
- GoPro Hero 10 Black
- GoPro Hero 10 Black Bones
- GoPro Max
- GoPro Hero 9 Black
Our Top Pick:
GoPro Hero 11 Black
If you’re looking for the best GoPro has to offer, look no further.
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For
- 360-degree horizon levelling
- New HyperView mode
- 10-bit colour
Against
GoPro’s latest and greatest action camera is called the Hero 11 Black. It uses the same chassis and processor as the Hero 10, but don’t be fooled into thinking it’s not a significant upgrade.
A new sensor at the heart of the camera unlocks some amazing possibilities. A new 8:7 shooting mode allows you to choose between vertical, horizontal or square format video after shooting for ultimate flexibility.
It also offers the widest-ever FOV from a GoPro, thanks to the new HyperView digital lens. What’s more, stabilisation is improved, now offering full 360-degree horizon levelling as well as HyperSmooth Boost.
If you’re a professional, you’ll be pleased to hear about the camera’s 10-bit colour capabilities. Meanwhile, wider FOVs like SuperView are unlocked at higher framerates, including 4K 120fps.
GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini
GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini
Best for lightweight portability
The same great features as the flagship Hero 11 Black in a lightweight rugged package.
The same great features as the flagship Hero 11 Black in a lightweight rugged package.
For
- Lightweight and small
- Same features as the Hero 11 Black
- No screens to break
Against
- Will need to connect to the app for configuration
The Hero 11 Black Mini is a new addition to the lineup. It offers almost all of the same features as the flagship camera, but it’s shrunken down into a lightweight package.
This means it’s ideal for mounting in tight spots. or in places where weight is a concern, like on a drone or a helmet.
To add to its flexibility, the Mini has an additional set of mounting tabs on the rear, which makes it extremely easy to use with a wide variety of accessories.
There are no screens on this model, aside from a very small Session-style settings display. This is a good and a bad thing. On the plus side, it means that the camera is more durable, but it also means that you’ll need to keep a phone handy and use the app to frame your shots.
GoPro Hero 10 Black
The Hero 11 Black’s predecessor still packs some serious specs, and it’s more affordable than ever before.
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For
- Excellent for slow motion
- Much smoother menus
- Up to 5.3K 60fps
Against
- SuperView only available at up to 4K 60fps
While the GoPro Hero 10 Black has been outdone by its newer brother, it still packs serious specifications. It’ll be coming down in price now, too, which makes it a more appealing option than ever.
The camera can shoot at almost identical resolutions and frame rates to the Hero 11. This includes 5.3K at up to 60fps, 4K at up to 120fps or 2.7K at up to 240fps, essentially double the frame rates of the Hero 9.
You’ll still benefit from excellent HyperSmooth stabilisation, and Horizon Levelling, it’s just limited to 45 degrees of tilt rather than full 360.
If you can do without the new lens modes, this is an incredibly capable camera for the asking price, and might just be the sweet spot when it comes to value.
GoPro Hero 10 Black Bones
GoPro Hero 10 Black Bones
If you’re looking for the ultimate lightweight action camera for your FPV drone, you’ll want to check out the Bones.
For
- Extremely lightweight
- Designed specifically for FPV drones
- The only camera in this class with a protection plan
Against
- Requires soldering expertise
For those seeking something completely different, we have the GoPro Hero 10 Bones. This is designed pretty much exclusively for FPV drone users, and unless you’re comfortable wielding a soldering iron, you’ll want to steer well clear.
Specs-wise it’s identical to the Hero 10, only all the parts unnecessary for use when strapped to a drone are stripped away. That means no screen, no battery and a massive 100-gram weight reduction.
As there’s no screen, the camera is configured entirely in the app and since there’s no battery, buyers are expected to solder a custom power lead to their drone’s PCB – it’s not for the faint of heart.
So, why go to all of this trouble? Well, one of the best examples is presented in this video from Red Bull. A lightweight and small FPV drone can capture shots like nothing ever before – and the Hero 10 Bones makes it easier than ever to fly a high-quality camera on a tiny rig.
GoPro MAX
A 360 camera that utilises all of GoPro’s imaging expertise to deliver stellar results.
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For
- Awesome 360-video capture
- Single lens modes
- Simplified editing process
Against
- Less durable than a traditional GoPro
GoPro doesn’t want you to think of the Max as a reboot of the Fusion, but in a lot of ways, it is. Likewise, in a lot of ways, it isn’t. It’s a 360-degree camera, that’s true, but it’s more than that and GoPro has completely changed the way you edit video from it.
You can shoot using either of the two 180-degree cameras on its own, and it features even better stabilisation than the Hero8. As well as using the HyperSmooth technology of the more standard camera, it uses its ultra-wide lenses to automatically level the horizons, so not only does it make all your footage smooth, but it’s also always level.
Of course, you can shoot in 360 too, using both cameras, and then you simply use the GoPro mobile app to reframe any of the footage you capture in a way that’s much more user-friendly than the method offered by the Fusion. You can also use a TimeWarp feature that lets you speed up and slow down footage while panning around the 360-degree footage.
GoPro Hero 9 Black
It’s a little older, but it’s still extremely capable and it can be had at bargain prices.
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For
- Can be found for cheaper than current Hero cameras
- Up to 5K 30fps videos
- Same great chassis as the Hero 11 Black
Against
- Menus are less fluid with the older processor
The Hero 9 Black, despite being succeded by the Hero 10 and 11, is still available to purchase brand new in many regions – and at a substantially reduced price.
It can record at the same resolutions as the new cameras, it just can’t match the frame rates. So if you don’t care about slow motion so much, you can save a wad of cash by going for the older model.
It uses the same rugged chassis as the newer options and still has the same excellent displays. It’s compatible with all the same accessories and batteries, too.
The main thing we don’t like is how sluggish the menus feel compared to the updated versions. However, this is a small niggle and it’s definitely a bit of a bargain at its current price.
Which GoPro should you buy?
If you want the best of the best, the Hero 11 Black is the easiest recommendation. Its new sensor makes it more versatile than ever, while it retains all of the perks of its predecessors: A rugged waterproof design, extremely high resolution, blistering frame rates and class-leading stabilisation.
With that said, the GoPro Max also makes a solid case for itself by not only offering high-end Hero performance, but also more advanced stabilisation and horizon levelling, plus 360-degree capture. It could use a refresh, though.
And, we can’t forget about the Hero 10 Black. It may have been out longer, but it still offers comparable specs and is available at a better price than ever before.
Ultimately it comes down to weighing up what’s important to you in an action camera. To read up more on GoPro and its products be sure to check out our GoPro Hub.
FAQs
What is the latest GoPro Camera 2022? ›
GoPro Hero 10 Black
The camera is built around the same 23MP 1/2.3-inch sensor as its predecessor, and features the same 10 meter waterproofing. There are some new shooting modes, which includes new 5K/60p, 4K/120p and 2.7K/240p shooting capabilities.
In previous years we have always said that if you are using the previous GoPro camera, then unless you're a professional user, it's not worth upgrading. This year though, the HERO10 Black is a significant upgrade over the 9. That's thanks to the GP2 processor, which makes everything smoother, faster and easier.
What GoPro should I buy budget? ›GoPro Hero 9 Black: The best budget GoPro
Competitively priced and well appointed, the Hero 9 Black is the ideal entry-level GoPro. In fact, while it can't match the blistering frame rates of the latest Hero 11, it will likely tick all the right boxes for most users.
- GoPro HERO10 (with the new Enduro Battery)—120 minutes (1080p / 30fps)
- GoPro HERO10—83 minutes (HyperSmooth High)
- GoPro HERO9—97 minutes (HyperSmooth High)
- GoPro HERO8—81 minutes.
- GoPro MAX—115 minutes.
If you switch from a GoPro HERO 9 to a HERO 10, the difference isn't big. Both cameras record in 5.3K resolution. The most important difference is in the frame rates. With the HERO 10, you can record with double the amount of frames per second for a smoother result.
What to know before buying a GoPro? ›- Video Quality and Frame Rate. Two essential features of your purchasing decision are video resolution and frame rate. ...
- Size, Shape and FOV (Field of View) ...
- Image Stabilizing and Mounting Accessories. ...
- Durability and Resilience. ...
- Battery Life and Power Accessories.
GoPro Hero 8 vs 9 Black: video
The Hero 9 Black's larger 23.6 MP sensor means higher resolution video. It maxes out at 5K 30 fps at a bitrate of 100 Mbps– that's seven times more detailed than regular HD. Meanwhile, the Hero 8 Black's video pinnacle is 4K 60fps at 100 Mbps.
The best GoPro for cinematic shots is the latest GoPro. The GoPro HERO9 is the first GoPro to record video with up to 5K resolution. The previous model offers 4K video, while older models only offer up to 1080p. A higher resolution provides more versatility for filmmaking.
How long should a GoPro last? ›...
How Long Does GoPro Battery Last?
| MODEL | CAPACITY | TIME THE BATTERY CAN LAST IN 4K VIDEO |
|---|---|---|
| GoPro Hero X (With Enduro Battery) | 1720 mAh | 120 Minutes |
The GoPro Hero 11 Black features a larger 1/1.9-inch sensor than that of the Hero 10 Black. While normally, when we talk about bigger sensors, that means superior low light performance and shallower depth of field, those aren't where the 11 Black edges ahead of the 10 Black.
Is a GoPro good for everyday use? ›
Are you looking for an affordable camera that can be used for both everyday and travel photography? If so, a GoPro may be the perfect option for you! GoPro cameras are small, lightweight, and easy to use. They also offer a wide range of features and settings that allow you to capture beautiful photos and videos.
Which GoPro is best and easy to use? ›Best for Beginners: GoPro HERO7 Black
Why It Made the Cut: The GoPro HERO7 Black pairs a low price point and easy-to-use interface with high-quality 4K video, making it a great entry point for action cam users, and the best camera for beginners.
The Max can shoot 5.6K resolution video at 30fps and 3K @60fps. While 5.6K is a higher resolution than the 5.3K of the Hero 10, don't be fooled, the quality is not nearly as good. That 5.6K has to cover 360 degrees field of view, whereas the Hero 10's 5.3K only has to cover around 200 degrees.
Is it better to have a GoPro or a camera? ›GoPro cameras are built for versatility and designed for videographers on the go. They're ready for action and as such can record fast-moving subjects and sequences just about anywhere you take them – even underwater. A DSLR or mirrorless camera, on the other hand, is bigger and less versatile.
What are the disadvantages of GoPro? ›While GoPros have been getting better in this regard with each new model, their low-light performance still isn't very good. It's a tiny sensor in there, and while the resolution has been bumped up in the latest models, the size of the sensor hasn't (more megapixels doesn't necessarily mean better image quality).
Can GoPro record for 2 hours? ›For instance, when using the 64 GB SD card, a GoPro camera like HERO4 with 4k resolution can record for 2hours and 13 minutes. If you use the 32 GB SD card, this recording time will definitely lessen to about 1 hour and 5 minutes. For the 16 GB, the recording time may be about 30 to 40 minutes.
Is GoPro 7 or 8 better? ›The Hero 8 definitely features a few advantages for still photos over the Hero 7. With it's Superphoto mode, the Hero 8 offers improved HDR performance. HDR stands for High Dynamic Range, and means that it can more easily capture detail in images that have a wide range between dark and light.
Is the new GoPro 9 worth it? ›Whether you want a durable, waterproof camera, something for vlogging or just an all-round travel camera, the GoPro HERO 9 Black is one of the best action cameras on the market. Do yourself a favour and get one.
Is GoPro Hero 9 really waterproof? ›The Hero9 can be submerged to 33 feet without a protective case. Like with the Hero8, using dive housing on the Hero9 will extend this to 196 feet.
Can I use GoPro without subscription? ›The free version lets users take advantage of most features; however, a subscription is necessary to unlock the full potential of GoPro Quik. All features are included when you Subscribe to GoPro, or you can Subscribe to GoPro Quik individually for $1.99/month or $9.99/year.
What are the best uses for GoPro? ›
GoPro's are undeniably great for recording sport; whether it be skiing, running, skateboarding, climbing or mountain-biking, GoPros can be used to create amazing Point Of View videos as well as help you to record and make a note of your technique when carrying out your routines.
What is GoPro most known for? ›It manufactures action cameras and develops its own mobile apps and video-editing software. Founded as Woodman Labs, Inc, the company eventually focused on the connected sports genre, developing its line of action cameras and, later, video editing software.
Is Hero 9 worth over Hero 8? ›Given the price difference, the Hero 8 Black is actually very good value for money. It's $100/£100 cheaper than the Hero 9 but does a lot of the same stuff. With that said, with its new colour screen, higher resolution sensor and longer battery life the additional outlay is definitely worth it for the Hero 9.
How long will a GoPro hero 9 last? ›The GoPro 9's full battery life is about 100 minutes when shooting in full HD, which is 1920×1080 pixels, and about 90minutes when shooting in 5k, which is 5120×2880 pixels. This clearly illustrates that the mode of the camera you are using significantly affects how long the battery lasts.
Does the GoPro 9 take good pictures? ›But some of my favorite photos have been taken with GoPros. And the HERO9 Black has some big updates that bring big improvements for stills photos. They're tiny, rugged, and waterproof. So you can shoot photos in places that most cameras can't.
Should I record 4K or 1080p GoPro? ›Compared to 1080p, 4K offers the higher level of fine details and clarity. You can downsize 4K footage to 1080p, and the downscaled 4K video is just sharper than native 1080p footage, especially when one zooms in on a specific area of footage. 4K gives you more flexibility with cropping.
Do professionals use GoPro? ›Professional Photography
The GoPro has found its way into many professional photographers' camera bags. It's fun to use when you're already comfortable with holding a camera, and that near-fish-eye view (I won't bicker over 10 degrees) lets you do some pretty creative stuff with still images and video.
The Hero black is better as it's a flagship version with superior features. It is more versatile with better slow motion recording capabilities and onboard microphones for recording stereo audio. However, the silver version might suit a beginner who is just trying out GoPro cameras.
Is GoPro Hero 9 better than iPhone? ›The primary lenses on the current iPhone models (X, 11, 12, 13) have a wider aperture than the latest GoPros (Hero 8, 9, 10 Black). As a result, the iPhone outperforms the GoPro in low-light circumstances. When comparing GoPro vs. iPhone, the iPhone 13 Pro Max creates more vibrant videos and photos.
What's the difference between the GoPro 10 and 11? ›The GoPro Hero 11 Black features a larger 1/1.9-inch sensor than that of the Hero 10 Black. While normally, when we talk about bigger sensors, that means superior low light performance and shallower depth of field, those aren't where the 11 Black edges ahead of the 10 Black.
What is GoPro best used for? ›
GoPro's are undeniably great for recording sport; whether it be skiing, running, skateboarding, climbing or mountain-biking, GoPros can be used to create amazing Point Of View videos as well as help you to record and make a note of your technique when carrying out your routines.
Does a GoPro 9 require a subscription? ›No, a subscription is not needed to use the HERO9 Black. A subscription will offer some benefits to your experience with the GoPro like the cloud storage, premium editing tools on the new Quik app, discounts, and camera replacements, but you can use the functions of the HERO9 Black fully with or without a subscription.