No, HERO8 does not mean 8K as most of us have thought. Yes, there are other improved features, but that is it. The new HERO8 Black is just another excellent action camera.

The most stabilized HERO camera

GoPro

4K Action cameras: The need for speed

The market for action cameras is full of action. In 2019 we had a bunch of new announcements like the Sony RX0 II, the HERO7 Black, the limited edition Dusk White and of course the OSMO Action that was supposed to be the GoPro killer. As GoPro continues the tradition of the new camera each year, this time is the HERO8 Black. There is no other sub-model, just Black (meanwhile).

GoPro HERO8 Black: The same as HERO7 Black but with a little more

The HERO8 Black will allow you the same video capabilities as the HERO7 Black, but with some added and improved features. Video-wise, you will get the same (regarding 4K resolution and fps). These are the differences between the two models:

• Smaller, more streamlined design
• The new front lens element is thicker and made with Gorilla Glass
• Improved HyperSmooth 2.0 stabilization
• Night-lapse and LiveBurst support
• Slow-motion stability improvements
• Change easily between lens FOV with Narrow, Linear, Wide, and SuperView modes
• Media Mod option can add more lighting and audio as well as another screen
• Optional Battery Mod multiplies runtime 2.5x
• “Folding fingers” type base for fast mounting

Take a look at the video below which highlights those features:

HyperSmooth 2.0

We wrote a dedicated article regarding this new feature that was first implemented in the HERO7 Black. This feature awarded GoPro the CES 2019 innovation award). GoPro claims that the HERO8 Black is “The most stabilized HERO camera” By the way, DJI introduces the same technology called RockSteady in the OSMO Action. This technology executes in-camera stabilization by cropping the image. That allows you to get stabilized shots out of the box without further stabilization in post. The feature is implemented very well in the HERO7. GoPro claims that the HERO8 Black predicts your movements and corrects for camera shake to deliver even smoother footage than before. Read this article to learn more about HyperSmooth technology, capabilities and implementation. In my personal opinion, GoPro knows that this feature is their gold and much requested by action users, so they improved and polished it.

Price

The price of the GoPro HERO8 Black is $400.

Below you can find a table that demonstrates the significant features comparison between the HERO7 Black and the new HERO8 Black. As you can see, there is not much difference between those models.

Final thoughts

As being mention above. There’s nothing new under the sun. However, the GoPro cameras are winning horses. Sharpening significant features are logical strategies to stay at the top of the action camera mountain. Would you buy the HERO8 Black? Let’s know your insights in the comments section below.