GoPro remains the leading name in action cameras, favored by everyone from amateur vloggers to professional filmmakers. With a wide array of GoPro models available, both new and used, deciding which one suits your specific requirements can be challenging. This comprehensive GoPro comparison chart and buyer’s guide simplifies the selection process, helping you find the perfect GoPro camera.
Perhaps you’re wondering if you truly need the latest features like advanced time-lapse video, voice control, 4K or even 5.3K video resolution, or HyperSmooth video stabilization. Exploring older GoPro models can be a cost-effective approach, or you might discover that the cutting-edge features of the newest versions justify the investment.
This guide will delve into the best GoPro cameras available, providing a detailed comparison to aid your decision-making. Let’s get started.
Understanding the GoPro Lineup: Key Differences
The official GoPro website primarily features the Hero and Max product lines. However, numerous retailers offer older models, and a vast selection exists in the second-hand market. Here’s a breakdown of the GoPro product lines you might encounter:
- Session: Compact and budget-friendly, these GoPros are essentially a lens and sensor in a small, robust cube.
- Hero: The standard GoPro, known for its ruggedness and wide-angle lens, complete with a touchscreen interface.
- Fusion: Designed for immersive 360-degree capture with dual front and rear lenses.
- Max: A versatile camera that bridges the gap between the Hero and Fusion, offering 360-degree recording alongside traditional Hero-style shooting modes.
Despite the rise of GoPro alternatives, these four lines provide options for every level of user and budget. The GoPro comparison chart below offers a detailed look at each model’s specifications.
If you’re considering whether a GoPro is necessary alongside your iPhone, our GoPro vs iPhone comparison provides further insights.
GoPro Comparison Chart: Detailed Model Specs
This Gopro Compare Chart is regularly updated to include the specifications of the latest GoPro camera releases, ensuring you have the most current information at your fingertips.
For optimal performance, explore the best settings to maximize your GoPro’s capabilities.
Exploring All GoPro Models: From Newest to Oldest
Currently, GoPro’s official site focuses on the latest models: Hero12 Black, Hero11 Black, Hero10 Black, Hero9 Black, Hero8 Black, Hero7 Black, and GoPro Max. However, platforms like Amazon and eBay often have older models available, presenting more affordable options.
While a used GoPro can be tempting for budget-conscious buyers, be mindful that battery life in older, used models can be significantly degraded.
Here’s a comprehensive list of GoPro models by release year:
- Hero12 Black (2023): The newest GoPro, offering top-of-the-line features.
- Hero11 Black (2022)
- Hero10 Black (2021)
- Hero9 Black (2020)
- Hero8 Black (2019)
- Max (2019)
- Hero7 Black (2018)
- Hero7 Silver (2018)
- Hero7 White (2018)
- Hero (2018)
- Fusion (2017)
- Hero6 Black (2017)
- Hero5 Black (2016)
- Hero5 Session (2016)
- Hero+ LCD (2015)
- Hero+ (2015)
- Hero4 Black (2014)
- Hero4 Silver (2014)
- Hero4 Session (2014)
- Hero (2014)
- Hero3+ Black (2013)
- Hero3+ Silver (2013)
- Hero3 Black (2012)
- Hero3 Silver (2012)
- Hero3 White (2012)
This chronological list helps you assess whether the savings from an older model are worth it. While GoPro has evolved over the years, the core functionality remains consistent across many generations. The key to compelling vlogs and videos lies in creative GoPro uses and ideas, achievable with almost any GoPro model.
Interestingly, the GoPro weight has remained consistent at 154g since the Hero10 Black, with the Hero 9 Black only slightly heavier at 158g. All GoPro cameras record in MP4 format and include LRV and THM sidecar files.
In-Depth GoPro Model Comparison
This detailed GoPro model comparison provides a quick overview of the various GoPro Hero models, highlighting their key differences. While upgrades between models can be incremental, such as minor improvements in battery life or video modes, they can significantly impact your shooting experience.
Pay close attention to this GoPro camera comparison, especially if you intend to use your GoPro as your primary camera for both photos and videos. Investing in features like 4K resolution or a larger sensor will lead to noticeable improvements in image quality across the GoPro lineup.
GoPro Hero 12 Black | The Best Overall GoPro Hero
Specs:
- Video: Up to 5.3K at 60p, 4K at 120p (Highest video quality in the GoPro range)
- Slow-mo: 8X (2.7K at 240p)
- Live Streaming: 1080p
- Still Photos from Video: 24.7MP
- Photos: 27MP, RAW + JPEG
- Image Stabilization: HyperSmooth 6.0
- TimeWarp: TimeWarp 3.0 with Real Speed and Half Speed
- Audio: 3 Microphones
- LCD: Front and Rear Touchscreen with Touch Zoom
- Waterproof: 33 feet (10m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: Photo and Video
- Battery: Removable 1720 mAh
- Voice Control: Yes
- HDMI Port: No (Standard across all GoPro versions)
Key New Features:
- Extended Runtime: Twice the battery life of Hero11 Black – 70 min at 5.3K60, 58 min at 4K120
- Enhanced Stabilization: Improved HyperSmooth 6.0
- Wireless Audio Support: Compatible with Apple AirPods and Bluetooth headphones
- Integrated Mounting: Standard 1/4-20 mounting thread
- HyperSmooth AutoBoost: Intelligent stabilization
GoPro Hero 11 Black
Specs:
- Video: 5K/60fps, 4K/120fps, 1080p/240fps
- Slow-mo: 8X
- Live Streaming: 1080p
- Photo: 27.3MP
- RAW Photo Capture: Yes
- Image Stabilization: HyperSmooth 5.0
- Photo Burst: 27MP at 30fps
- TimeWarp: TimeWarp 3.0 with Real Speed and Half Speed
- Audio: 3 Microphones
- LCD: Front and Rear Touchscreen with Touch Zoom
- Waterproof: 33 feet (10m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: Photo and Video
- Battery: Removable 1720 mAh
- Voice Control: Yes
- GPS: Yes
- HDMI Port: No (Standard across all GoPro generations)
Key New Features:
- Enduro Battery: 1720mAh battery for extended shooting times
- HyperView Lens: New HyperView and SuperView lens options up to 5.3K/30fps
- High-Resolution Photos: 27MP photos and frame grabs, RAW capture in all modes
- Horizon Lock: Full horizon lock up to 5.3K
- HyperSmooth AutoBoost: HyperSmooth 5.0 with AutoBoost
GoPro Hero 10 Black
Specs:
- Video: 5K/60fps, 4K/120fps, 1080p/240fps (Equally impressive video quality)
- Slow-mo: 8X
- Live Streaming: 1080p
- Photo: 23.6MP
- RAW Photo Capture: Yes
- Image Stabilization: HyperSmooth 4.0
- Photo Burst: 12MP at 30fps
- TimeWarp: TimeWarp 3.0 with Real Speed and Half Speed
- Audio: 3 Microphones
- LCD: Front and Rear Touchscreen with Touch Zoom
- Waterproof: 33 feet (10m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: Photo and Video
- Battery: Removable 1720 mAh
- Voice Control: Yes
- GPS: Yes
- HDMI Port: No
Key New Features:
- GP2 Processor: New processor enabling 5K video at 60fps and 4K at 120fps
- HyperSmooth 4.0: Enhanced stabilization, compatible with 1080p Live Streaming
- High-Resolution Frame Grabs: 19.6MP frame grabs from 5K 4:3 video
- Video Tone Mapping: Improved video color and contrast
- Water-Repellent Lens Cover: New hydrophobic lens cover
- Responsive Touchscreen: More responsive rear touchscreen
- 3D Noise Reduction: Enhanced low-light video quality
- Wired Content Transfer: Faster content transfer to smartphones
GoPro Hero 9 Black
Specs:
- Video: 5K/30fps, 4K/60fps, 1080p/240fps (Excellent all-around video)
- Live Streaming: 1080p
- Photo: 23.6MP
- RAW Photo Capture: Yes
- Image Stabilization: HyperSmooth 3.0
- Photo Burst: 12MP at 30fps
- TimeWarp: TimeWarp 3.0 (Real Speed and Half Speed)
- Audio: 3 Microphones
- LCD: Touchscreen with Touch Zoom
- Waterproof: 33 feet (10m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: Photo and Video
- Battery: Removable 1720 mAh
- Voice Control: Yes
- GPS: Yes
- HDMI Port: No
Key New Features:
- Improved Sensor: New sensor with a significant 12-megapixel increase
- 5K Video Resolution: 5K/30 Video Recording
- Enhanced Battery Life: Approximately 30% longer battery life
- Interchangeable Lenses: Removable lens cover and lens mod capability
- Front-Facing Screen: Full-color front-facing live preview screen
- HyperSmooth 3.0: Exceptionally smooth video stabilization
- Expanded Livestreaming Options: Twitch and other platforms
- Capture Scheduling: Scheduled Capture and Duration Capture
GoPro Hero 8 Black | Best Value GoPro Hero
Specs:
- Video: 4K/60fps, 1080p/240fps (Great video quality for the price)
- Photo: 12MP
- RAW Photo Capture: Yes
- Image Stabilization: HyperSmooth 2.0
- Photo Burst: 12MP at 30fps
- TimeWarp: TimeWarp 3.0 (Real Speed and Half Speed)
- Audio: 3 Microphones
- LCD: Touchscreen with Touch Zoom
- Waterproof: 33 feet (10m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: Photo and Video
- Battery: Removable 1220 mAh
- Voice Control: Yes
- GPS: Yes
- HDMI Port: No
Key New Features:
- HyperSmooth 2.0: Includes Boost mode and available in all resolutions and frame rates
- Redesigned Body: Integrated mounting fingers, eliminating the need for a frame
- Mod Accessories: Compatible with Media Mod, Display Mod, and Light Mod
- TimeWarp 2.0: Automatic speed selection and tap control
- LiveBurst Photos: Captures 1.5 seconds before and after a shot
- 100Mbps Bitrate: Higher bitrate for 4K and 2.7K video
- Capture Presets: Customizable shooting presets
GoPro Max (360-Degree)
Specs:
- Video: 6K/30fps (5.6K/30fps stitched), HERO Mode 1440/60fps, 1080/60fps
- Photo: 18MP (16.6MP stitched), 5.5MP HERO Photo, 270° 6.2MP Panoramic Photo
- RAW Audio Capture: Yes
- Image Stabilization: Max HyperSmooth
- Photo Burst: 12MP at 30fps
- TimeWarp: TimeWarp 3.0 (Real Speed and Half Speed)
- Audio: 6 Microphones with Spherical Audio
- LCD: Touchscreen with Touch Zoom
- Waterproof: 16 feet (5m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: Photo and Video
- Battery: Removable 1600 mAh
- Voice Control: Advanced Voice Controls
- Live Streaming: Yes
- GPS: Yes
- HDMI Port: No
- SD Card Slot: Single SD card slot
Key New Features (Compared to Fusion):
- Sleek Design: Slimmer and more compact than the Fusion
- Color Touchscreen: 1.7-inch color touchscreen display
- Time Warp and Time-lapse Modes: Dedicated TimeWarp and Time-lapse modes
- PowerPano: 270° panoramic photos
- Max HyperSmooth & Horizon Leveling: Advanced stabilization and horizon leveling
- Six-Mic Surround Audio: Immersive spherical audio recording
- Hero Mode: Functions as a traditional Hero GoPro camera
GoPro Hero 7 Black
Specs:
- Video: 4K/60 fps, 1080p/240 fps, 720p/60fps
- Photo: 12MP
- Image Stabilization: HyperSmooth
- Photo Burst: 12MP at 30fps
- Audio: 3 Microphones
- LCD: Touchscreen with Touch Zoom
- Waterproof: 33 feet (10m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: Photo and Video
- Battery: Removable 1220 mAh
- Voice Control: Yes
- GPS: Yes
- HDMI Port: Micro HDMI
GoPro Hero 7 Silver
Specs:
- Video: 4K/30 fps, 1080p/60 fps
- Photo: 10MP
- Image Stabilization: Standard
- Photo Burst: 10MP at 15fps
- Audio: 2 Microphones
- LCD: Touchscreen with Touch Zoom
- Waterproof: 33 feet (10m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: No
- Battery: Integrated 1220 mAh
- Voice Control: Yes
- GPS: Yes
- HDMI Port: No
GoPro Hero 7 White (2018)
Specs:
- Video: 1440p/60fps, 1080p/60fps
- Photo: 10MP
- Image Stabilization: Standard
- Photo Burst: 10MP at 15fps
- Audio: 2 Microphones
- LCD: Touchscreen with Touch Zoom
- Waterproof: 33 feet (10m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: No
- Battery: Integrated 1220 mAh
- Voice Control: Yes
- GPS: No
- HDMI Port: No
GoPro Hero (2018)
Specs:
- Video: 1440p/30fps, 1080p/60fps
- Photo: 10MP
- Image Stabilization: Electronic
- Photo Burst: 10MP at 10fps
- Audio: 1 Microphone
- LCD: Touchscreen
- Waterproof: 33 feet (10m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: No
- Battery: Integrated Battery
- Voice Control: Yes
- GPS: No
- HDMI Port: Yes
GoPro Fusion (360-Degree)
Specs:
- Video: 5.2k/30fps, 3k/60fps
- Photo: 18MP RAW/ 16.6MP JPEG
- RAW Audio Capture: Yes
- Image Stabilization: Advanced
- Photo Burst: 18MP at 30fps
- Audio: 4 Microphones Planar
- LCD: Monochrome LCD; No touch display
- Waterproof: 16 feet (5m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: Photo and Video
- Battery: Removable 2620 mAh
- Voice Control: Advanced Voice Controls
- GPS: Yes
- HDMI Port: No
- SD Card Slot: 2 SD card slots!
GoPro Hero 6 Black
Specs:
- Video: 4K/60fps, 1080p/240fps, 720p/60fps
- Photo: 12MP
- Image Stabilization: Advanced
- Photo Burst: 12MP at 30fps
- Audio: 3 Microphones
- LCD: Touchscreen with Touch Zoom
- Waterproof: 33 feet (10m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: Photo and Video
- Battery: Removable 1220 mAh
- Voice Control: Expanded Voice Controls
- GPS: Yes
- HDMI Port: Micro HDMI
GoPro Hero 5 Black
Specs:
- Video: 4K/30fps, 1080p/120fps, 720p/240fps
- Photo: 12MP
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Photo Burst: 12MP at 30fps
- Audio: 3 Microphones
- LCD: Touchscreen with Touch Zoom
- Waterproof: 33 feet (10m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: Photo and Video
- Battery: Removable 1220 mAh
- Voice Control: Yes
- GPS: Yes
- HDMI Port: Micro HDMI
- Compatibility: Compatible with Karma drone and grip
GoPro Hero 5 Session
Specs:
- Video: 4K/30fps, 1080p/90fps, 720p/120fps
- Photo: 10MP
- Image Stabilization: Yes
- Photo Burst: 10MP at 30fps
- Audio: 2 Microphones
- LCD: No Touchscreen
- Waterproof: 33 feet (10m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: Photo and Video
- Battery: Integrated 1000 mAh
- Voice Control: Yes
- GPS: No
- HDMI Port: No
GoPro Hero 4 Black
Specs:
- Video: 4K/30fps, 1080p/120fps, 720p/240fps
- Photo: 12MP
- Image Stabilization: Electronic
- Photo Burst: 12MP at 30fps
- Audio: 1 Microphone
- LCD: No Touchscreen
- Waterproof: 131 feet (40m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: Photo and Video
- Battery: Replaceable 1160 mAh
- Voice Control: Yes
- GPS: No
- HDMI Port: No
GoPro Hero 4 Silver
Specs:
- Video: 4K/15fps, 1080p/60fps, 720p/120fps
- Photo: 12MP
- Image Stabilization: No Image Stabilization
- Photo Burst: 12MP at 30fps
- Audio: 1 Microphone
- LCD: No Touchscreen
- Waterproof: 131 feet (40m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: Photo and Video
- Battery: Replaceable 1160 mAh
- Voice Control: No
- GPS: No
- HDMI Port: No
GoPro Hero Session (Hero 4 Session)
Specs:
- Video: 1080p/60fps, 720p/100fps
- Photo: 8MP
- Image Stabilization: No Image Stabilization
- Photo Burst: 8MP at 10fps
- Audio: 2 Microphones
- LCD: No Touchscreen
- Waterproof: 33 feet (10m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: Video only
- Battery: Integrated 1000 mAh
- Voice Control: No
- GPS: No
- HDMI Port: No
GoPro Hero+LCD
Specs:
- Video: 1080p/60fps, 720p/60fps
- Photo: 8MP
- Image Stabilization: No Image Stabilization
- Photo Burst: 8MP at 5fps
- Audio: 1 Microphone
- LCD: Touchscreen
- Waterproof: 131 feet (40m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: No
- Battery: Integrated 1160 mAh
- Voice Control: No
- GPS: No
- HDMI Port: No
GoPro Hero+
Specs:
- Video: 1080p/60fps, 720p/60fps
- Photo: 8MP
- Image Stabilization: No Image Stabilization
- Photo Burst: 8MP at 5fps
- Audio: 1 Microphone
- LCD: No Touchscreen
- Waterproof: 131 feet (40m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: No
- Battery: Integrated 1160 mAh
- Voice Control: No
- GPS: No
- HDMI Port: No
GoPro Hero
Specs:
- Video: 1080p/30fps, 720p/60fps
- Photo: 5MP
- Image Stabilization: No Image Stabilization
- Photo Burst: 5MP at 5fps
- Audio: 1 Microphone
- LCD: No Touchscreen
- Waterproof: 131 feet (40m)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi & Bluetooth
- Protune: No
- Battery: Integrated 1180 mAh
- Voice Control: No
- GPS: No
- HDMI Port: No
With this comprehensive GoPro models list and comparison, you should be well-equipped to decide which action camera best fits your needs. If you have further questions, feel free to ask in the comments below.
GoPro FAQs
Which GoPro offers the best value for money?
The Hero 8 Black stands out as the best value GoPro. It combines a modern design with integrated mounting, excellent HyperSmooth 2.0 stabilization, and high-quality video, all at a reasonable price point.
What is the most affordable GoPro available?
The renewed Hero 6 Black is among the most budget-friendly options. The older Session 4 can also be found at very low prices.
Who are the main competitors to GoPro?
Key GoPro competitors include AKASO, DJI, Yi, Sony, and Garmin, each offering action cameras with varying features and price points.
Are all GoPro cameras waterproof?
Most newer GoPro models are waterproof without needing an external housing. However, older models like the Hero 2, Hero 3, and Hero 4 require a separate waterproof housing.
Is GoPro suitable for photography?
GoPros can be used for casual photography, particularly travel and action shots. However, for professional-quality stills and greater control, a dedicated camera is recommended.
How can GoPro video footage be enhanced?
Software like VideoProc can significantly improve GoPro footage by processing and polishing the output files, optimizing video quality and reducing noise.
Final Thoughts
GoPro has consistently pushed the boundaries of action camera technology. For users with older models like the Hero 5 or earlier, upgrading to a Hero 7 Black or Hero 8 Black will offer a transformative leap in performance, particularly in stabilization and video quality.
If you currently own a Hero 6, it remains a capable camera that still holds up well against newer models. However, for the most advanced stabilization and video quality, upgrading to a Hero 7 or later is recommended.
While the Hero 8 Black is an excellent choice for most users seeking value, the Hero 12 Black currently sits at the top of the GoPro lineup. If your budget allows, the Hero 12 Black delivers unparalleled video stabilization and the best video quality available in a GoPro.
EDITOR’S CHOICE
GOPRO HERO12 BLACK
Incredible video and photo quality combined with excellent battery life and class-leading stabilization for buttery smooth footage.
