A Comprehensive Guide on Which GoPro Should I Buy: Comparing Hero7, Hero8, Hero9 Black, and Max

I. Introduction

If you’re in the market for a new action camera, the latest GoPro camera models are the industry’s go-to choice. However, deciding which GoPro to buy can be challenging because of the various features, capabilities, and price points. In this guide, we’ll explore the latest GoPro camera models, provide a comparison of the most popular ones, and recommend the best GoPro cameras based on specific use cases.

II. A Comprehensive Guide to the Latest GoPro Camera Models

Before we get into the details, let’s take a glance at the latest GoPro camera models: GoPro Hero7 Black, GoPro Hero8 Black, GoPro Max, and GoPro Hero9 Black. Here’s a brief overview and comparison of each GoPro camera model.

A. GoPro Hero7 Black

The GoPro Hero7 Black was released in 2018 and features HyperSmooth stabilization and TimeWarp video. It also boasts a 12MP camera, 4K60 video, and the ability to livestream. The Hero7 Black has voice control for hands-free use and is waterproof up to 33 feet.

Pros:

• HyperSmooth stabilization
• TimeWarp video
• Voice control

Cons:

• No second front-facing screen
• Occasional freezing and crashing
• Max video length is 15 minutes

B. GoPro Hero8 Black

The GoPro Hero8 Black was released in 2019 and features Hypersmooth 2.0 stabilization, TimeWarp 2.0, and LiveBurst. It also has a 12MP camera, 4K60 video, and the ability to livestream. The Hero8 Black has voice control and is waterproof up to 33 feet. It also has the optional add-on Mods, including the Media Mod, Display Mod, and Light Mod.

Pros:

• Hypersmooth 2.0 stabilization
• TimeWarp 2.0
• Optional Mods available

Cons:

• No built-in front-facing screen
• Expensive compared to previous models
• Gets hot during prolonged use

C. GoPro Max

The GoPro Max was released in 2019 and features Max Hypersmooth, Max TimeWarp, and Max SuperView. It also has two 180-degree lenses that allow 360-degree footage and 16.6MP camera sensors. The Max has voice control, is waterproof up to 16 feet, and also has the optional add-on Mods.

Pros:

• 360-degree footage and photos
• Max Hypersmooth stabilization
• SuperView mode for wide-angle shots

Cons:

• Expensive compared to previous models
• Battery life is shorter than other models
• Photo quality sometimes suffers due to stitching

D. GoPro Hero9 Black

The GoPro Hero9 Black was released in 2020 and features HyperSmooth 3.0 stabilization, TimeWarp 3.0, and a 5K30 video. It also has a 20MP camera, a front-facing color display, and a removable lens cover. The Hero9 Black has voice control and is waterproof up to 33 feet. It also has a larger battery and the optional add-on Mods.

Pros:

• Larger battery and removable lens cover
• Front-facing display
• HyperSmooth 3.0 stabilization

Cons:

• Expensive
• Bigger form factor than previous models
• Some compatibility issues with older accessories

III. Top 5 GoPro Cameras Currently on the Market

Here’s a detailed comparison of the top 5 GoPro cameras currently on the market, covering the technical specifications and unique features of each camera model.

A. GoPro Hero9 Black

The Hero9 Black is the latest model from GoPro and offers a lot of improvements to its predecessors. It has a higher resolution of 5K compared to the Hero8 Black and 4K of the Hero7 Black. It also has a bigger battery and a front-facing color display. Users can use the HyperSmooth 3.0 stabilization feature that helps keep footage steady, and it has a removable lens cover that allows users to change lenses easily. The Hero9 Black is suitable for people who want the latest features and are willing to pay a high price for it.

Pros:

• Front-facing color display
• Higher resolution and frame rates
• Bigger battery and removable lens cover

Cons:

• Expensive
• No optional Mods available yet
• Requires a subscription for some features

B. GoPro Hero8 Black

The Hero8 Black is slightly cheaper than the Hero9 Black and still offers features that would satisfy most users’ needs. It has Hypersmooth 2.0 stabilization and TimeWarp 2.0, higher video frame rates, and 12MP camera sensors. Users can also add on optional Mods for better audio, lighting, and recording capabilities. The Hero8 Black is a versatile choice and suitable for action sports, travel, and vlogging.

Pros:

• Optional Mods available
• Hypersmooth 2.0 stabilization and TimeWarp 2.0
• Lower price compared to Hero9 Black

Cons:

• No built-in front-facing screen
• Gets hot during prolonged use
• Less battery life than Hero9 Black

C. GoPro Max

The GoPro Max is the camera for users who want 360-degree footage without much hassle. It has two 180-degree lenses that allow users to record 360-degree videos and photos. The camera also features Max Hypersmooth stabilization and Max TimeWarp. However, the camera’s stitching can be slightly questionable, which results in lower photo quality than other models. The GoPro Max is ideal for vloggers and people who want to create immersive 360-degree content.

Pros:

• 360-degree footage and photos
• Max Hypersmooth stabilization and Max TimeWarp
• Optional Mods available

Cons:

• Expensive
• Battery life is shorter than other models
• Photo quality sometimes suffers due to stitching

D. GoPro Hero7 Black

The GoPro Hero7 Black is a popular choice for people who want a reliable and affordable camera. It has HyperSmooth stabilization, TimeWarp video, and a 12MP camera. However, the camera does not have a built-in front-facing screen, which can make framing shots difficult. The camera is suitable for people who want a durable, waterproof action camera at a lower price.

Pros:

• HyperSmooth stabilization and TimeWarp video
• More affordable than other models
• Voice control

Cons:

• No built-in front-facing screen
• Less battery life than newer models
• Max video length is 15 minutes

E. GoPro Hero7 Silver

The GoPro Hero7 Silver is the most affordable option, but with some drawbacks. It has a 10MP camera, 4K30 video, and is waterproof up to 33 feet. However, the camera lacks HyperSmooth stabilization and has a limited range of voice commands. The Hero7 Silver is suitable for people who want an entry-level action camera at a low price.

Pros:

• Low price compared to other models
• Durable and waterproof design
• Touchscreen display

Cons:

• No HyperSmooth stabilization
• Limited range of voice commands
• No built-in front-facing screen

IV. Best GoPro Cameras Based on Specific Use Cases

Choosing the best GoPro camera for your various activities is much easier when you know the unique features that matter most. Here are some of the models that work best for specific use cases.

A. GoPro Hero9 Black — for Action Sports

For extreme sports enthusiasts who want the best possible footage, the GoPro Hero9 Black is an excellent choice. Its HyperSmooth 3.0 stabilization is the industry standard for smooth video and eliminates vibration and jitter for high-quality shots. The higher resolution and front-facing display are also great for checking your shots on the go, which is ideal for sports such as skiing, snowboarding, and surfing.

B. GoPro Max — for Vlogging

The GoPro Max is the 360-degree camera, making it the best option for vloggers who want to give their viewers an immersive experience. The camera is significantly more expensive than the other models, but its 360-degree footage and photos give vloggers more options to work with. Its Max Hypersmooth stabilization makes it easy for vloggers to get steady, high-quality footage while moving around and capturing their experiences.

C. GoPro Hero8 Black — for Travel

The GoPro Hero8 Black has the features and capabilities for travel vloggers who want a compact and versatile camera. Its Hypersmooth 2.0 stabilization allows for steady footage while on the move, and the multiple Mods make it great for capturing audio and lighting for your travel vlog. Additionally, the camera has a lower price point than other models, making it a great option if you’re on a budget.

V. Comparing the Most Popular GoPro Models

Here’s a comparison of the technical specifications and unique features of the most popular GoPro cameras.