GoPro Hero 7
GoPros are reaching for final fantasy levels of sequels and we’ve been currently hit with the 7th generation of these action cams. But how much does it improve on last year’s Hero 6 and is it worth the upgrade? In this guide, we’ll go over all the improvements added to the GoPro Hero 7 over the Hero 6 and outline whether you should opt-in for the Hero 7 or not.
Apart from the new black paint job and a redesigned microphone, Hero 7 doesn’t differ much from the Hero 6 in terms of hardware. However, there are a few new software features, which help differentiate the Hero 7 and blow its competition out of the water!
The main update software wise is the ‘Hypersmooth’ mode, an electronic image stabilization described by the manufacturer as “the best in-camera video stabilization in any camera, ever.” GoPro effectively managed to combine the karma grip and the Hero 6 into a single product with the stabilization feature of the Hero 7.
GoPro is continuing to raise their innovative limit with the Hero 7 and retain their position as the de-facto leader of the action cam business.
Design
If you’ve used the last two Hero flagship models, then GoPro Hero 7 will be very familiar to you in terms of design. The new black paint job is awe-inspiring and aims at targeting serious adventurers. The Hero 7 has 3 variants, the black one costs $399, silver one $299, and the white version at only $199. If you compare these prices to the initial release price of the Hero 6 you’ll find out that Hero 7 is significantly low-priced than its peers.
The finish is rubberized and waterproof down to 10 meters. Compared with the Hero 6’s black karma grip, it is not as slippery having a gimbal-like feel. So, plunging into the ocean, you do not need to worry about it slipping out of your hands. The two-inch touchscreen on the back is sharp and bright, which will let you preview your snaps quickly. The control buttons are located on the side, which you may find a little frustrating.
Software updates
The Hero 7 software menu is tweaked over the last years model. A new ‘short clip’ button lets you limit video recordings to 15 or 30 seconds, which is a handy way to save memory. You can fine-tune your settings quickly, thanks to Hero 7’s combination of video options like ‘field of view’ and Protune manual controls in one menu.
Features and performance
Hypersmooth
The main emphasis of the Hero 7 feature-wise is their incorporation of an image stabilization technology called Hypersmooth. It’s a massive improvement to the electronic image stabilization (EIS) you saw on the Hero 6black and works seamlessly during 4k/60fps recordings.
Unlike their rival, Sony’s FDR-X3000, the Hero 7 does not employ the stabilization optically, rather electronically. This latest flagship GoPro model harnesses the power of a new GP1 processor.
Timewarp
A new timelapse mode called, ‘Timewarp’ utilizes this new stabilization and will let you shoot first-person “magic carpet rides.” Super Photo, a new still feature acts as a type of ‘super-auto’ mode, that will let you change your settings based on the scene. In addition to being new and fun, time-lapse shooting mode is executed really well by GoPro. As opposed to common time-lapse features where your camera needs to be static with all the motions around it, TimeWarp lets you capture speedy stills during first-person journeys like bike rides.
Audio
The audio improved far more than last year’s Hero 6 and really anything within its competitive landscape, thanks to a redesign of the microphone. The improvement in the design of the microphone membrane, boosted the sound quality and reduced internal vibration, resulting in a beefier bass, in addition to much clearer mids. This comes in handy now that you can livestream to sites like Facebook via your smartphone with the Hero 7 black. Whether you are vlogging or creating homemade youtube videos these are fantastic updates.
Video and image quality
Hero 7 showcasing its vibrant color
The GoPro Hero 7’s video quality can be summed up in one word, excellent. Although it’s not noticeably better than the Hero 6 black as they both rely on the same set of hardware, GoPro’s incorporation of the new stabilization technique to the latest flagship can be credited to enhance the video quality IMMENSELY.
You’ll find the footage a little warmer in some scenarios. However, the Hero 7 black has overall the same rich colors in a good light. The Hero 7 black’s ability to handle gloomy outdoor conditions without descending into the noise or smudginess is out of this world.
You can use the ‘Protune’ mode to truly squeeze the most out of your Hero 7 Black, which will boost the video bit-rates and will let you tweak settings like the ISO ranges, sharpness, and exposure compensation.
Battery life
The one downside we faced while testing the new GoPro Hero 7 black is its small battery size. Although, any previous GoPro user should already be accustomed to having several spare batteries. As the camera itself is small, it is unable to pack a significantly larger battery inside. For example, the battery capacity is half of that of the Apple iPhone XS.
You can shoot at 1080p/30 fps for around 1hr 45 mins with this camera, which is far more than average for action cams though. However, when it comes to shooting 4K/60fps, you may only get around 45 mins on a single charge. Plus, the camera can become excess hot due to overheating when shooting 4k videos.
One good thing about the Hero 7 black is it utilizes a USB type-c charger, which lets you charge the device very fast. If you carry a portable battery pack, you can charge the Hero 7 black under 1 hour. If you have invested in any of the newer apple product, you know that they are moving towards the USB type-c charger.
Why buy the GoPro Hero 7 Black?
Yeah, the Hero 7 black is awesome and all, but should you buy it for your action-packed adventures? What if you already own the Hero 6? Is it worth the upgrade?
Today, when even the smartphone cameras are so powerful and have advanced capabilities, flagship action cams might appear as a luxurious indulgence. However, if you’re a hard adventurer, smartphone cameras are unable to live up to your requirements.
High-end action cams like Hero 7 black can provide you with the means to capture your most wild, intense moments just as you want them. Thanks to Hero 7 Black’s rugged, waterproof, pocket-able build and its unmatched range of mounting options, it just makes the right addition to every adventurer’s photographic toolkit.
Verdict & Rivals
So if you’re looking for the perfect action cam for your next sojourn, and the HERO 7 is already under your radar, we suggest you buy this product. Because, you can’t find any other action cam to match the Hero 7 Black’s level of creativity and convenience.
GoPro HERO 7 Black
However, if you want to explore other options, the primary competitors of the Hero 7 Black are Sony FDRX3000 in the mid-range (roughly $100 less than the GoPro Hero 7) and APEMAN Action Camera in the low-end range (under $100).
GoPro are best in class for the action camera, although are still not comparable to the best cameras money can buy. They are resilient and uphold the crazy lifestyle any adventurist would want. Hopefully one of the next models will incorporate 360 degrees. Until then, you can find this comprehensive guide to the best 360 cameras.
