GoPro HERO5 Black

GoPro HERO5 Black Introduction Video

GoPro HERO5 Black Overview

GoPro made the HERO5 Black available to the public on October 2016 — two years after the release of the HERO4, which was wildly successful at first but eventually became overcome by its competitors. This long period between the brand’s flagship models caused a stir among GoPro fans and made them incredibly excited about the arrival of the HERO5 Black. But does this action camera really live up to the hype?

Design & Features

If you own or have used a HERO4, one of the first things you’ll notice about the HERO5 Black is that it no longer needs a polycarbonate housing (which muffled audio on previous models). This comes from the fact that it’s designed to be rugged and durable on its own; it’s not only dustproof but also waterproof up to 10 meters or 33 feet. You do need to get the plastic housing if you go beyond that but, for most people, 10 meters is usually enough for underwater filming.

Unlike the HERO4, the HERO5 Black comes with a 2-inch touchscreen, which is one of the features that GoPro fans have been clamoring for. With its touch display, the camera doesn’t rely on three power buttons to adjust settings and take photos and videos (which is what previous models did). It doesn’t completely let go of buttons, though, since it still has a shutter button that lets you quickly start and stop recording videos.

In terms of features, the HERO5 Black has plenty to offer since it combines the well-loved specs from previous models with new technologies. One of these is voice control, which makes hands-free operation possible and allows you to shoot photos and videos even when your hands are busy. Simply say the right voice command (e.g. “GoPro, take a photo” or “GoPro, start recording”), and the HERO5 will proceed with your desired task.

The action camera also has advanced video stabilization that makes your recordings smooth and professional-looking whether you’re holding the HERO5 Black in your hands or have it attached to your favorite sports gear. This is paired with state-of-the-art audio processing that captures left and right stereo audio while significantly reducing wind noise.

Not everyone is looking for 4K capabilities in an action camera but, for those who do, the HERO5 Black will more than deliver. It can record 4K videos at 30 frames per second, along with 1080p videos at 120 fps and 1440p vides at 80 fps. It can also produce stunning photos with a maximum resolution of 12MP, which can be taken in single or burst modes and even in time lapse. You even have the option to take RAW photos, which allows you to have an easier and more flexible editing experience.

Pros and Cons

Just like any piece of technology, the GoPro HERO5 Black comes with both benefits and drawbacks. If you’re planning to buy this action camera, it’s important to look at these factors to decide if it’s the right option for you or not. We’ve listed the pros and cons below:

PROS

Cheaper than the HERO4 Black

The HERO4 Black cost $499.99 when it first came out (although it’s now offered at a discount by many online retailers). However, the HERO5 Black is only $399.99 — a hundred dollars cheaper than its predecessor. This is definitely great value for money, considering that the HERO5 has a lot of features that are not present in its older sibling.

Can take a lot of roughhousing

As mentioned above, the HERO 5 Black is rugged and heavy-duty even when it’s not paired with a plastic housing. This makes it an ideal companion for travelers and extreme-sports fanatics who need an action camera that can keep up with their adventures.

Easy to use

With a touchscreen display, one-touch recording button, and voice control, the GoPro HERO5 Black is one of the easiest action cameras to operate. It does come with a learning curve particularly if you’re not familiar with GoPro products but, once you master its controls, you’ll find that using the camera is instinctively easy.

CONS

Has poor battery life

The GoPro HERO5 Black’s battery has a 1220mAh capacity, which is definitely bigger than the 1160mAh battery of its predecessor. Still, you might find that it doesn’t last long, especially when the GPS, Wi-Fi, and electronic image stability functions are running at the same time.

Image stabilization isn’t always available

The HERO5 Black’s image stabilizer only works with 1080p and 1440p videos. It’s not available for 4K videos as well as those with frame rates beyond 60 fps.

Final Thoughts

The GoPro HERO5 Black is one of your best options if you’re shopping around for an action camera. If you can get past its few drawbacks, you’ll find that it’s the perfect partner for all your adventures.

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