Action cameras have long ceased to be accessories exclusively for extreme sports enthusiasts and are widely used in everyday life. ordinary people. Some people run a video blog, others create a family video library. The action camera is not afraid of water and shocks, it is convenient to take it on trips and on vacation. It is always better to use a specialized device for shooting.
Manufacturers are responding to the trend, making action cameras simpler and more understandable. Marketing is also being adjusted. Photos of skiers and skydivers on HERO5 promo pages now share space with characters far from extreme sports who capture ordinary moments in life.
The HERO5 Black that arrived to the editorial office is an excellent example of a universal device “for everyone and for every day” with the easiest possible intuitive controls.
We examined the new GoPro and found its strengths and weaknesses.
Fifth generation GoPro HERO
The HERO5 line is represented by only two devices: the flagship Black at a price of 31,990 rubles and the simpler Session at a price of 24,990 rubles. Given GoPro's desire to make cameras suitable for everyone, the reduction in the model range seems quite logical.
Pay attention to the cost of HERO4 Black in major retail chains and official stores. Now the average price of the previous generation flagship on Yandex.Market is 35,990 rubles, but in fact the new product is only a couple of thousand more expensive than its predecessor. Thus, the question of choosing between “newer, but more expensive” and “older, but cheaper” disappears.
In terms of resolutions and frames per second, HERO5 Black doesn't make any revolutionary breakthroughs. Hopes for the appearance of a 4K mode at 60 frames per second were not justified; the maximum bitrate is 60 Mb/s. Depending on the selected resolution, the user has access to various shooting angles, from standard to ultra-wide, as well as a mode that eliminates the fish-eye effect.
Here is the full list of supported video recording resolutions:
- 4K @ 30 fps;
- 2.7K @ 60 fps;
- 2.7K 4:3 @ 30 fps;
- 1 440p @ 80 fps;
- 1 080p @ 120 fps;
- 960p @ 120 fps;
- 720p @ 240 fps;
- 480p @ 240 fps.
You can see the camera working in basic modes in the video below.
Why buy the HERO5 Black when it shoots almost exactly like the previous generation camera?
If this is your first flagship GoPro, then the main reason is the almost identical cost and unconditional technological superiority over the older model.
If you have HERO4 Black, then the set of various large and small innovations and improvements may be the reason. Individually, each of them may not seem all that impressive, but together they create a camera on a completely different level.
Video stabilization
A very useful innovation for amateurs, which allows them to get much higher quality videos without professional accessories, but it is far from ideally implemented. In addition to the inevitable reduction of the filmed area by 10%, stabilization does not work at frame rates above 60 per second, and is not provided for 4K video at all.
Yes, of course, only a few still have 4K monitors and the most popular format is still 1080p @ 60 fps video, but since stabilization is stated in the device description, it should work in all modes.
RAW photos and WDR
The HERO4 Black takes 8-megapixel photos in JPG only, while the new HERO5 Black can take 12-megapixel photos in RAW. Further proof that GoPro wants to make its devices as versatile as possible and suitable for everyone, including photographers who need high-quality post-processing capabilities.
To further enhance photos and videos, there's a WDR mode that lets you capture more detail in poor lighting conditions.
One button or voice control + built-in touch display
We are accustomed to the fact that one button is enough to take photos and videos on a smartphone. HERO5 Black is built the same way. Pressing the large button on top automatically turns on the camera and begins recording. Pressing it again ends recording and turns off the camera.
In theory, HERO5 Black can be controlled remotely using your voice, but in practice it's not so simple. For correct voice recognition of commands, relative silence in the surrounding area and knowledge of English are required, because the Russian language is not supported.
Selecting a shooting mode, viewing and managing footage, as well as other settings are made using an additional button and a built-in 2-inch touch display on the back of the camera.
The small size negatively affects the ease of operation, but there are no complaints about the accuracy and speed of recognition, as well as the quality of the picture.
Waterproof case
Perhaps one of the most important innovations of HERO5 Black, it also has back side. Indeed, the new generation of GoPro cameras can operate in depths of up to 10 meters without any additional accessories. The battery and memory card compartments, micro-HDMI and USB-C ports are reliably protected by sealed plugs, but that transparent case protected HERO4 Black not only from water.
By getting rid of the additional shell layer, the designers jeopardized the camera body itself and the lens in particular. Don't forget about the touch screen on the back side, as well as the front monochrome display. All these elements are unlikely to withstand serious mechanical stress, and the included bumper case with mount does not provide complete protection.
HERO5 Black can be tucked into an optional case, but the accessory is not included and will lighten your wallet by another $55 or €55 depending on where you order it.
Other Features
- Despite the more powerful hardware, HERO5 Black's battery life is the same as the previous generation camera, thanks to a slightly increased battery capacity of 1,220 mAh versus 1,160 mAh in HERO4 Black.
- HERO5 Black has built-in GPS, which is a big plus for those who like to organize their media libraries at the location where they were filming.
- Unlike the previous generation, HERO5 records sound in stereo.
- For an additional fee, you can purchase a GoPro Plus subscription - personal cloud storage with a built-in editor where captured photos and videos will be automatically uploaded. However, for this system to work, the camera must be connected to power from an adapter, which is not included in the package.
Total
GoPro HERO5 Black turned out to be controversial, but the positive aspects clearly outweigh.
The HERO5 Black will be criticized mainly by hardcore people who use the camera to shoot real life in the most extreme conditions. They have the right to swear at the manufacturer for not having a full-fledged case in the box, but these same pros know that GoPro is not just a device for filming, but an entire ecosystem with a huge range of accessories. Whatever game they come up with, GoPro will probably have a gadget to make it happen.
The lack of stabilization and 60 fps in 4K is the fault of technological progress in general. The performance of processors will certainly increase in the near future, and then fans of quality will get what they want.
Otherwise, the HERO5 Black is a great camera. The best GoPro in history and a great advanced smartphone replacement for taking photos and videos. The manufacturer wanted to make a device that is convenient and understandable for ordinary person, and he succeeded.
All that remains is to ask advanced GoPro users. What do you think of HERO5 and the Black model in particular? Is it worth taking and why? What pros and cons have you already discovered that were not covered in the review? Share your thoughts in the comments.
GoPro cameras have become a household name; very often, when it comes to action cameras, the first association is with this brand. Celebrities, athletes, bloggers, extreme sports enthusiasts, managed to find an approach to different audiences. But if previously the company felt at ease in this market segment due to the virtual lack of competition, then in 2016 the situation changed radically. A number of Chinese brands, such as SJCAM and XIAOMI, have noticeably improved their quality, and SONY has seriously gotten involved in the fight. Such fierce competition primarily benefits users, but for manufacturers this is a time when even minor mistakes can cost large financial losses. GoPro felt this for itself, demonstrating the fall in shares on the stock exchange. In an attempt to maintain the shaky position, in the second half of 2016, an updated fifth series was released and expansion into related areas (quadcopter) began.
At the current stage, the manufacturer did not scatter attention, leaving only two series, Black and Session. Perhaps accompanying versions will be released in the future, although it is quite possible that this approach will continue to be used. We, in turn, are pleased to present one of the first detailed reviews older version, GoPro HERO5 Black. Its sales have already started; below is a summary table of available offers on the Russian market.
GoPro HERO5 Black vs. GoPro HERO4 Black
Equipment
The camera is supplied in a two-piece package. Transparent box with camera and box with decoration. You can get your first impressions of the appearance of the brand new GoPro HERO5 Black even before unboxing.
The company is true to its principles; the user receives a minimum starting set of fasteners. The kit includes a frame and contact pad, as well as a USB Type-C cable, instructions and a warranty card. They never remembered about localization for the Russian market.
Appearance
Before testing began, we acquired the previous GoPro HERO4 Black, and as part of this review, a number of comparisons will be made not only appearance, but also the quality of shooting. The build quality of the fourth generation began to yield to the level that Chinese brands with a much more modest price tag have learned to provide. The gaps between the elements, the quality of the plastic used, all this is no longer acceptable.
GoPro HERO5 Black takes things a step further. The camera has noticeably changed both tactilely and externally. Such changes were necessary both for fans and for those who still doubt and are in search.
Instead of cheap plastic, a rubberized coating and a ceramic-like texture are used. Behind these external changes lies an important change for the Black series.
The case is now protected from moisture and dust. Without a protective box, it can be submerged to a depth of up to 10 meters. A protective case is also available as an optional accessory.
Such a waiver will be useful not only for divers, but also in everyday photography, allowing one to abandon the protective box on the street. Rain, an accidental fall into water, or dirt no longer lead to failure. As a bonus, the issue of microphone operation is resolved, the sensitivity of which inevitably decreases when the camera is placed in the box. With this step, GoPro also made an attack on Sony.
Along with the advent of protection, GoPro HERO5 Black got rid of most of the buttons. There are only two left: starting recording and switching modes. The rest has been carried over to the touchscreen, another major change for the 5 Series. Now you can control the interface from a two-inch panel. Let me remind you that the GoPro HERO4 Black was devoid of a screen on the user side.
The transition to a sensor brings both positive and negative changes. Yes, in general, it’s easier to find the desired item and quickly switch shooting options, but all this is before moisture gets on the screen. After this, it becomes useless, not responding to clicks.
We also have complaints about the sensitivity of the sensor and the logic of gestures. At first, it would be a good idea to study the instructions supplied with the camera (available in Russian only on the official website).
Is this feature of the work critical? No, there are several additional control channels. Plus the camera is already configured, you can get by with two mechanical buttons. A quick shooting mode is available, when turning on and starting recording takes place in one click, and turning off immediately after shooting is completed. And here it is worth mentioning another innovation of the GoPro HERO5 Black, the implementation of voice control. Once activated in the menu, a list of commands is provided, including start/stop recording, switching shooting modes, and turning off. Again, all commands are only on English language, basic pronunciation is quite enough.
On the front side there is a lens with protective glass that habitually protrudes above the surface. The duplicate monochrome screen has been retained. It displays information about the mode, battery, and shooting time. Such a screen has also begun to appear in Chinese cameras, for example, the new SJCAM S6 Legend. Its presence allows you to control the shooting activity when the camera is positioned towards the user. During operation, the main screen turns off (the interval is set in the settings), leaving the working monochrome with low power consumption.
LED indicators are distributed around the perimeter of the camera. In the future, in the settings, the operation of the elements can be disabled. GoPro HERO5 Black has three microphones located on the sides. The location chosen is controversial; some or even all of them are overlapped by fingers. Even now, video bloggers cannot do without an external microphone. The recorded sound is dull.
Another complaint concerns the connectors; the presence of water protection requires plugs. There are two of them, one on the compartment with the battery and memory card, the second hides the USB Type-C and HDMI connectors. They open with little effort; the locking button does not inspire confidence. On the second plug, it does not fit into the given place clearly, often requiring adjustment for an even position. As a result, the charging process is difficult.
As mentioned above, GoPro HERO5 Black has lost its complete protective box. A frame is offered instead. It is difficult to put on and does not provide additional protection, acting only as an intermediate link to the fastenings. The manufacturer itself could listen to its audience and add an additional screw mount to the case, eliminating the need for a frame. This feature is present in XIAOMI YI and SJCAM S6 Legend. Please note: Waterproofing does not provide drop protection. A collision with asphalt or a hard floor will lead to fatal consequences. As a result, to shoot anything serious, besides vlogs, you will still need a protective box. The official one currently costs about 4,000 rubles, which is not cheap.
Settings
Control options are distributed across several windows. Quick functions for changing shooting features, detailed settings, wireless synchronization.It’s not difficult to understand the menu, but even here they forgot about the Russian language.
Software
GoPro HERO5 Black can interact with your smartphone. To use this you will need to download the Capture app. Several steps involve synchronizing and adding the camera to your account. One profile combines cameras of different generations with further switching between them. The interface is clear and easy to understand.The camera streams images and gives access to settings in the form of a general list. From here it is much more convenient to carry out detailed settings. Here you can start recording and take pictures. All materials can be shared on in social networks, view the community's work, and also activate a desktop background image with daily updates.
Video shooting
The question remains open about the decision to remain on the same 12-megapixel matrix. A lot of time has passed, competitors are pressing, but GoPro HERO5 Black stands still. There is only hope for a new processor, but no clear information has appeared on it after its release. The maximum resolution is limited to 4K at 30 frames per second.Full HD 60 FPS. Daily entry. Static location.
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GoPro HERO5 Black
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SJCAM SJ6 LEGEND
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GoPro HERO4 Black
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SJCAM SJ5000X
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Full HD 60 FPS. Daily entry. Running and movement.
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GoPro HERO5 Black
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SJCAM SJ6 LEGEND
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GoPro HERO4 Black
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SJCAM SJ5000X
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4K. Daily entry. Crop on general and separate 4K.
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GoPro HERO5 Black
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SJCAM SJ6 LEGEND
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GoPro HERO4 Black
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SJCAM SJ5000X
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Full HD 60 FPS. Night recording. Static location.
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GoPro HERO5 Black
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SJCAM SJ6 LEGEND
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GoPro HERO4 Black
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SJCAM SJ5000X
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Microphone test
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GoPro HERO5 Black
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GoPro HERO4 Black
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GoPro HERO5 Black Summary
As a result, GoPro HERO5 Black turned out to be perfect. Yes, useful features have appeared here, such as touch control, main screen, waterproof case, GPS, voice control, software stabilization, start recording in one click. The tactile and visual perception has significantly improved, while the cost has been saved. But again, where is the breakthrough that allows us to call the camera the best offer among its competitors? Chinese cameras provide video quality at the same level, and sometimes even better, while being much cheaper. Sony in the same segment provides improved stabilization and a protective box included. What may not suit you about the new GoPro is the lack of a box included, direct attachment to accessories and a tripod, difficulty in controlling when wet, an inexpressive voice track, an unreliable connector block cover, and low sensor responsiveness.
- 1. Basic specifications
- 2. Packaging and accessories
- 3. Appearance
- 4. Ergonomics
- 5. Application
- 6. Test results
- 7. Where can I buy it?
- 8. Conclusion
- 9. Video review of GoPro Hero 5 Session
The new Hero 5 line from GoPro, compared to the previous Hero 4, has received many quite serious improvements. The new product is presented in two versions - Session and Black, the differences between which are in size and functionality. At the same time, the GoPro 5 Black is considered the flagship, while the Session price is more affordable.
In our review of the GoPro Hero 5 Session, we will compare the camera with the older model in the line and summarize after testing the device.
Main technical characteristics
- Camera module: CMOS, wide-angle lens;
- Video recording: WVGA (240fps) to 4K (30fps);
- Codecs: H.264;
- Photography: up to 10 MP;
- Storage memory: microSD/SDHC/SDXC (up to 128 GB);
- Wireless interfaces: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth;
- Battery: 1000 mAh;
- Dimensions: 38 x 38 x 36 mm;
- Weight: 88 g.
Packaging and equipment
The Session box is practically no different in appearance from other products in the Hero 5 line. It is a regular cardboard packaging with a plastic box on top through which the camera can be seen.
A USB Type-C cable and two mounts are packed under the camera. The package does not include a protective box, so for underwater photography you will have to fork out a few tens of dollars more.
Appearance
The Hero 5 Session has a different form factor from traditional GoPros. The camera body is made in the form of a cube. It is more compact than the Hero 5 Black, weighs less and does not cause much aerodynamic drag at high speeds.
Compared to the previous version of Session, the device still gained a few extra millimeters in size, but there is no significant difference between the two devices. Also, the location of the functional elements has not changed. The activation button and tiny display are located on the top end.
At the bottom there is a button to activate wireless communication via Wi-Fi, next to it is a microphone.
To connect via USB Type-C or change the memory card, you will have to open the waterproof flap on the left.
The camera lens is hidden behind protective glass on the front panel. A little higher in the corner there is a perforation for another microphone and an LED status indicator. If trouble happens and the glass cracks, replacing the protection will not be difficult. The necessary components for repair are sold in many online stores.
The sides of the Hero 5 Session feature a rubberized, grooved coating. It makes the camera very comfortable to hold in your hands.
Ergonomics
The main advantage of Session is its water resistance. For filming in a humid environment and at a depth of up to 10 meters underwater, you can do without a protective box. This solution has a positive effect on the quality of sound recording. Now it is louder and clearer due to the absence of external barriers in the form of glass protection.
In fact, you don’t even need the protection itself. The Hero 5 Session is designed to withstand drops, bumps, and other hazards that come with action camera life.
Along with the camera, the package includes a universal mount that allows you to connect the device with a huge number of types of accessories. The device also fits perfectly with GoPro's Karma drone.
In Hero 5 Session, microphones not only record sound, but also “understand” it. The voice control function has thirteen commands. True, there is no Russian among the available languages, so you need to pronounce phrases in English. For example, “GoPro take a photo” or “GoPro start recording”, after which the camera will immediately perform the required action.
However, this control model does not work in noisy environments. Sometimes microphones can simply ignore a command that is drowned out among many other sounds. To solve this problem, it is recommended to purchase an additional control module on the wristband.
Application
Hero 5 Session is equipped with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi wireless interfaces for synchronizing with the GoPro Capture App on your smartphone or tablet. The application provides a picture from the camera in real time and full remote control over the device.
Among the innovations is the function of automatically uploading footage to the cloud through the GoPro Plus service. The process occurs when synchronizing with a smartphone. This is a great way to avoid accidentally losing the day's footage. True, you will have to pay for this opportunity.
The Quik app allows you to quickly and easily edit videos. GoPro desktop software performs the same functions. To work with it, you do not need special knowledge in installation; the design of the program is intuitive and extremely simple. However, the editor is limited in its functionality. For more advanced installation, it is recommended to use third-party solutions.
In general, there are no complaints about Session regarding remote control. The connection is stable. There is a slight delay when broadcasting live video to a smartphone, but it is not critical. The wireless connection of the GoPro Hero 5 Black works similarly. There are no differences between the cameras here.
Test results
During the test, a “headache” of the Session line immediately appeared - a critical inconvenience of control without a smartphone. Remembering combinations of button presses to switch between modes is very difficult at first. In principle, there is no particular need for this; most users shoot videos in conjunction with the application anyway.
The tiny LCD display shows only the bare minimum: approximate battery charge, wireless connection status, shooting mode and recording time. The decision not to use a large screen is due to the camera positioning. First of all, it is designed for first-person shooting.
The main difference from the more expensive Hero 5 Black is the frame rate per second. Both cameras shoot in 4K at 30fps, while the Black can use SuperView field (an expanded frame to 16:9 with a base aspect ratio of 4:3). Session does not provide such a function.
At lower resolutions the differences between devices only become larger. The 2.7K Session is limited to 48fps and medium viewing angles, while the Black can shoot at 60fps without any restrictions. The same goes for Full HD. Here Session is 40fps behind.
When it comes to shooting quality, the cameras here are almost equal. There is a significant increase compared to the previous generation. Here Black has an advantage only in low light due to less noise. Session has software frame stabilization, which doesn't work in 4K. Sound recording is carried out by three microphones in stereo mode. The noise reduction system works very effectively, but in strong winds the camera is unlikely to understand your voice commands.
Video examples:
In terms of photography, the camera is also slightly behind the older model in the line. This is a result of the lack of a display; Session is physically impossible to position perfectly for capture good shot. The device also lags behind in maximum photo resolution – 10 megapixels versus 12 for the Black.
The battery was completely drained after one hour of shooting in 4K. FullHD operation doubles battery life. The battery is non-removable, so it is better to buy a portable charger. The device charges in about an hour via USB Type-C.
Where can I buy
Conclusion
- Convenient compact body;
- Moisture protection;
- Voice control;
- Electronic stabilizer;
- Availability of 4K resolution.
- Inconvenient control without a smartphone;
- Frame stabilization is not possible in 4K.
The improvement over previous models makes the GoPro Hero 5 Session a serious alternative to the older camera in the line. The instance can offer compactness and convenience with good performance.
However, the Hero 5 Black is still slightly better in terms of shooting quality and more convenient to control. If you are looking good camera For first-person shooting, Session is more suitable for you due to its smaller dimensions and weight.
Among products from other brands, we can highlight the Sony FDR-X1000V. The competitor's main advantage is ZEISS optics, wide viewing angle, advanced functionality, and the presence of GPS and NFC modules. All this in the same compact package. However, for this camera you will have to pay almost twice as much - $550.
Video review of GoPro Hero 5 Session
GoPro HERO 5 Black camera, belongs to the variety digital cameras, intended for use in aggressive environments. It is not surprising that until quite recently, action cameras were an indispensable attribute only for extreme sports enthusiasts and athletes. However, the advantages of GoPro HERO 5 Black made it popular in everyday life.
The camera is not afraid of shocks, falls, or exposure to water. With its help it is convenient to conduct video blogs, and it is an indispensable assistant when creating a home video library. The GoPro HERO 5 Black camera is easy to take on a picnic, fishing, hunting or on vacation. Filming carried out with a device that was originally adapted for working in difficult conditions is distinguished by its quality.
GoPro HERO 5 Black camera in box
Development digital technologies has led to the fact that working with action cameras has become much easier. This allowed GoPro to adjust its marketing policy. Today, among the company's clients, you can meet people who are very far from extreme sports. On the pages advertising brochures drivers, climbers, surfers are side by side with photographs of schoolchildren and housewives.
The GoPro HERO 5 Black camera is excellent proof that the device can be used not only by extreme sports enthusiasts, but also by ordinary people.
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Fifth series HERO 5
When releasing the fifth generation of action cameras, the manufacturer focused on two series, Black and . Perhaps in the future GoPro will expand its range, but this has not happened yet. The difference in price between the two series is about 10,000 rubles. The upper price segment up to 35,000 rubles is occupied by the flagship GoPro HERO5 Black, the price for Session does not exceed 25,000 rubles.
It is noteworthy that the cost of the new product is not much higher than the price tag for cameras of the previous generation. When comparing prices, it turns out that the price of HERO5 Black is only two thousand higher than the previous model. This circumstance greatly simplifies the solution to the question “old and cheap or new but expensive?”
GoPro HERO 5 Black
We will get our first impression of the device from the appearance of the packaging, which consists of two components. The camera itself is stored in a transparent box, and the accompanying documentation is in a separate box. The company didn’t put much thought into the packaging and remained true to the style of minimalism; the set includes:
- Frame and pad.
- USB cable.
- Instructions.
- Warranty card.
About adapting the gadget to Russian market The manufacturers, unfortunately, did not think about it, so there are no instructions in Russian.
Camera control
HERO5 Black differs from previous models by having a minimal number of keys. Now the buttons start recording and switch shooting modes. Other functions are controlled from the touch screen. This is another feature of the fifth generation of GoPro cameras.
A two-inch panel is used to control the interface. Fourth generation cameras did not have a screen on the operator's side. Using a sensor to control the camera is controversial to say the least. On the one hand, the menu has become more convenient to navigate, on the other hand, if moisture gets on the screen, the sensor is useless. The sensitivity of the sensor also leaves much to be desired, as does the logic of gestures. Therefore, you will initially have to refer to the instructions (its Russian version will need to be downloaded from the official GoPro website).
However, the manufacturer has provided other ways to control the gadget. GoPro at creation HERO cameras 5 Black has implemented the concept of voice control. In the camera menu you can activate a list of available commands (start/stop shooting, stop recording, switch modes). The gadget responds to commands spoken only in English.
Again, if you plan to use the camera in difficult conditions, no one bothers you to set the settings in advance. During the shooting process, there will be two mechanical keys to control an already configured camera.
Appearance
When you pick up the HERO5 Black, you can't ignore the body material. When making HERO5 Black, the company decided to abandon commonplace plastic. The body of the device is covered with a rubberized material and a texture reminiscent of ceramics. External changes also affected the technical characteristics of the device. Now it is impossible for dirt particles, dust and moisture to enter the camera body. The gadget, even without a protective case, will survive immersion to a depth of 10 meters.
This feature of the HERO5 Black makes it an attractive camera for everyday shooting. Atmospheric precipitation, and even dropping the camera into water, will not damage it. Refusal of the protective box on the street led to an increase in the sensitivity of the microphone.
Unfortunately, it's everywhere negative sides. The protective case protected previous models not only from exposure to dust and water, but also from mechanical damage. In addition to the lens, the HERO5 Black camera also has a touch screen, which is very sensitive. However, if you need a camera specifically for filming in extreme conditions, no one forbids you to purchase a protective case separately.
Specifications
The HERO5 Black camera did not present any surprises regarding the number of resolutions and frames per second, the maximum bitrate is still the same 60 Mbps. The appearance of the 4K mode at 60 frames did not take place.
Available the following types permissions:
- 4K * 30 Frames Per Second;
- 2.7K * 60 Frames Per Second;
- 2.7K 4:3 * 30 Frames Per Second;
- 1 440p * 80 Frames Per Second;
- 1 080p * 120 Frames Per Second;
- 960p *120 Frames Per Second;
- 720p * 240 Frames Per Second;
- 480p * 240 Frames Per Second.
Depending on the resolution, the operator has access to various recording angles, including basic and ultra-wide. Using a special mode, you can eliminate the fish-eye effect. Upon closer inspection, the HERO5 Black's image quality is virtually indistinguishable from the quality of images captured by previous-generation cameras. Here the question of the advisability of purchasing a camera of the fifth series will inevitably arise.
Please note two things. If this is your first action camera, then the price is in favor of buying it. The price difference between fourth and fifth generation cameras is minimal. However, HERO5 Black eliminates all the “childhood” diseases of the previous series and significantly expands the functionality.
Owners of HERO4 Black models will be pleased to appreciate the evolution of their favorite gadget. Of course, the improvements introduced are not particularly interesting in themselves, but their combination allows us to obtain a device of a completely different class.
Video
One of the innovations was the appearance of video stabilization. In theory, the function allows you to get better quality footage, without the use of special accessories. Unfortunately, the implementation of this know-how leaves much to be desired. It's not even that the area being photographed is reduced by 10%. The main drawback is that stabilization categorically does not want to function at frame rates above 60 per second, and is completely absent when shooting 4K video.
Of course, 4K monitors, to put it mildly, are not common, and the most used format is 1080p* 60 fps. However, if you have already equipped your camera with a stabilization function, then please ensure that it works in all available modes.
Photos
Manufacturers have taught the HERO5 Black camera to take 12 megapixel photos in RAW format. Let us remember that the previous model took 8-pixel pictures and only in JPG format. This once again underlines GoPro's desire to create a camera that will be used with equal pleasure by all categories of citizens, from a clerk to a parachutist.
The camera allows you to take photos in WDR mode, which produces excellent images, even in low light.
Peculiarities
- Compared to the previous model, the camera has expanded functionality, which affects the operating time. Therefore, manufacturers had to use batteries with a capacity of 1,220 mAh; the same figure for the previous model was 1,160 mAh.
- The HERO5 Black camera is equipped with a built-in GPS unit, which allows you to create media libraries linked to the shooting location.
- HERO5 Black records audio in stereo.
Summarizing
The HERO 5 Black camera has some mixed features, but overall the positives prevail. The device will cause dissatisfaction among extreme sports enthusiasts, because the lack of a protective case in the basic configuration is, from their point of view, a significant disadvantage for an action camera. However, any of the professionals knows that the camera is equipped with great amount accessories. For almost every trick that adrenaline junkies want to perform, the company will be able to offer an appropriate accessory.
Of course, you can find fault with the video stabilization function and voice control in English. However, by and large, these are minor functions. When developing the camera, manufacturers set the task of making a convenient action camera for ordinary people and they succeeded.
Video review of the HERO 5 Black camera in English:
The fifth “hero” from GoPro has been updated both externally and internally: the camcorder for active shooting has received a more rounded rubberized body and acquired an electronic image stabilization system, previously unavailable in the model range of the trendsetter in the production of action cameras.
Security
The redesigned body of the model has dust and moisture protection according to the IPX8 standard, withstanding immersion under water to a depth of 10 m. This is probably why the manufacturer decided not to include an underwater housing in the delivery package, which at the same time serves as a shock protection for the camera. If necessary, it can be purchased separately.
Control
The action camera is controlled using both a 2-inch touch display located on the back of the body and via wireless Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth. And if you can’t free your hands, they will come to the rescue voice commands - out of the box the camcorder supports 7 language packs.
Filming
The fact that the action camera belongs to the top segment is fully confirmed by its video capabilities. The credit for the sharp, clear and rich picture lies on the shoulders of a 1/2.3-inch sensor with a resolution of 12 MP, which allows you to shoot video in 4K resolution at up to 30 fps or FullHD at recording speeds up to 120 fps. To obtain a wider dynamic range, you can activate the WDR function (analogous to HDR for photos). By the way, photos are recorded on a memory card in JPG or RAW formats.
Fashion trends
Current fashion trends have translated into the use of a USB Type-C port for charging. The battery capacity has also increased (up to 1220 mAh), on one charge of which the action camera is capable of recording about 2 hours of video in FullHD resolution or 1 hour in 4K shooting format. True, the included GPS module tends to eat up the battery charge and reduce the duration of video shooting.
Functionality
GoPro HERO 5 lets you capture moments active rest or extreme sports in ultra-high definition with high detail and smooth video footage. And the camcorder's excellent functionality makes it one of the most competitive models on the action camera market.
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