Gopro 4 comparison: What to choose: GoPro Hero4 Silver or Black Edition

Which GoPro is better - this question arises for those who decide to buy the most famous action camera in the world! Today the most popular GoPro series HERO 4, HERO 5, HERO6 and HERO 7 we will try to choose from this line best camera for our purposes. It’s up to you to decide which GoPro to buy!

The developers offer us several models: HERO 4, HERO 4 Silver, HERO 4 Black, HERO4 Session, HERO 5 Black and HERO5 Session, as well as the new HERO 6 and 7 Black camera.

If earlier it was clear that the best was HERO Black, then today everything is not so clear.

The developers apparently tried to take into account various applications of its products.

So for example, someone is using a camera in professional activity when shooting videos for TV shows and movies, in this case, of course, you need the “Black” series (For example, Hero 4 Black). It is also suitable for those who like to make high-quality family videos using video editors using maximum quality also in “protune” mode. Thanks to the high resolution, cropping can be done. So if you make a 1080p project, you can shoot in 4K/30 and when scaling it to 1080p resolution, the quality will not be lost. This is also useful for video stabilization in various programs.

Relaxing on the ski slopes or traveling to cities and countries where you can charge your camera in the evening at the hotel, and you don’t plan to do complex video editing and you just need to capture the events, then GoPro HERO, GoPro HERO4/5 Session, HERO 7 Silver or 7 White, .

If you want a universal camera, then it is better to choose the GoPro HERO4 Silver (it has a screen and aquabox), but if you know what the "Warp Stabilizer" is in Adobe Premiere Pro CS6 or just want the best camera with aquabox and shoot in 4K resolution, then we recommend GoPro HERO 4 Black, 5 Black or 6 Black and equip it with an aquabox. If you want the best slow motion shooting in Full HD format, then only HERO 6 and 7 Black are the best, and if you don’t want to stabilize the video in a video editor, then of course the best would be HERO 7 Black, which has concentrated the maximum capabilities in itself today.

Currently the choice is very limited because... The HERO4 Black and Silver series, 5Session and 4Session have been discontinued and we are left to choose what is on sale, and today it is 5 / 6 / 7 Black, HERO2018, 7 Silver and 7White.

It is important to note that the first 5 Black models did a battery test and only worked with the original battery! (After updating the firmware to v.01.55, the camera does not work with Chinese analogue batteries for Hero5) Currently, no such problems have been detected.

The most important thing is to choose accessories compatible with the camera you choose! To do this, we have created a page on which you simply select the camera model and the site itself will select accessories compatible with your GoPro.

All cameras in our store are certified! Official technical and warranty support is available.

Dimensions

The size and shape of GoPro cameras have remained virtually unchanged over the years. last years. All these actioncams have the same dimensions (without protective housing) 41 x 59 x 21/30 mm. The two depth measurements vary depending on whether the protruding lens is taken into account.

Weight

The weight difference between these cameras is negligible, and the extra few grams are unlikely to be noticeable.

Angle of View (FOV)

GoPro cameras typically have a wide angle of view, but each has the ability to shoot in medium and narrow angles, depending on the video resolution.

Diaphragm

All of these GoPro models have F2.8 wide-angle lenses.

Matrix size

4K recording

4K video recording attracts buyers to the Hero4 Black, which is not surprising: the camera is able to shoot 4K video at double the size - 30/25/24 frames per second, unlike its brothers with 15/12.5 frames per second. Thanks to new powerful image processing, the camera excels in 2.7K shooting as well.

The GoPro Hero3+ cannot shoot either 4K or 2.7K video at any frame rate.

HD recording

Slow motion

If you want to shoot slow motion, you need to record video at a high frame rate. These GoPro models are capable of recording at 120 frames per second, but only the Hero4 Black can do this at 1080p, the rest are limited to 720p.

Video bitrate

Different GoPro cameras offer varying high video bitrates (H.264), from 25 Mbps to 60 Mbps. Higher bitrates are important for professionals who need the highest possible video quality, which is what the Hero4 Black is aimed at.

Audio

Photo resolution

FPS - number of frames per second

Superview mode

SuperView is a new video mode that allows you to get video from the widest perspective angle.

Only Hero4 Black can shoot in SuperView mode in 4K (24 fps) or 2.7K (30/25 fps). While the Hero4 Silver and Hero3+ Black (which introduced this feature for the first time) can use this mode to shoot 1080p and 720p footage.

Protune

Protune allows GoPro users to shoot in higher quality and with less compression. You can adjust settings including color, ISO limit, white balance, sharpness and exposure.

Built-in LCD touch screen

The GoPro Hero4 Silver is the first to feature such a screen, and only the GoPro ActionCam boasts a built-in touch viewfinder.

Wireless connection

Memory cards

These GoPro actioncam models support MicroSD Class 10 or UHS-1 memory cards up to 64 GB.

Battery

Battery life is one of the few aspects of GoPro cameras that users complain about, and unfortunately, the situation is not improving.

In the recording mode that all cameras are capable of (720p 120 fps, off), the Hero4 Black is capable of recording for 1 hour 50 minutes, the Hero4 Silver 1 hour 55 minutes, the Hero3+ Black 1 hour 55 minutes and the Hero3+ Silver 2 hours 20 minutes.

It's also worth noting that the Hero4 cameras are not compatible with any older GoPro batteries.

Price

Leave your comment!


The next generation of high-quality cameras designed for logging the behavior and various actions of people who lead an active lifestyle was recently revealed to the world by the equipment manufacturer GoPro, which, in fact, has already become a cult favorite for many users in different parts of the world. If many owners have already studied the younger representative of this 2014 line in practice, then a few words should definitely be said about the older “fourth hero” - and there is something to talk about, because this new video equipment has a lot of various advantages!

Main brief technical characteristics of GoPro HERO 4 Black

  • Video shooting - 4K 30 fps (UHD) / 2.7K 50 fps (2704 x 1520) / 1080p 120 fps;
  • The maximum video resolution is 3840 x 2160 pixels (UHD);
  • Codec - H.264, MP4;
  • Matrix - 12 MP;
  • Photos - 12 MP 4000 x 3000 / 7 MP 3000 x 2250 / 5 MP 2560 x 1920;
  • A series of photos - 3, 5 or 10 pictures per second by continuously pressing the button;
  • ISO - 6400 / 1600 / 400;
  • Interfaces - microUSB, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth operate up to 180 meters;
  • Memory card slot - microSD minimum class 10 up to 64 GB;
  • Battery - 1160 mAh (new type, not compatible with older camera models);
  • New shooting modes - Night Lapse and Night Photo. It is possible to set a longer shutter speed. Availability of GPS;
  • Weight - 88 grams, with case - 152 g.

GoPro HERO 4 Package Contents

  1. GoPro HERO4 Black camera;
  2. Waterproof box up to 40 meters;
  3. Back cover with slots;
  4. Battery 1160 mAh;
  5. Quick Release Buckle;
  6. Vertical Quick Release Buckle;
  7. 1 Curved + 1 Flat self-adhesive plate;
  8. 3-Way Pivot Arm;
  9. USB cable;
  10. Documentation.
As you noticed - The package did not include a remote control! Now you have to buy it separately! GoPro Wi-Fi Remote costs about 3000–4000 rubles in Russia, and 2000 UAH in Ukraine.

Price of the new GoPro HERO4


Initially, I would like to note that two versions have been released (more precisely, 3, but the 3rd can be called the “budget version of the four” and we will not consider it with you) GoPro HERO 4: Black and Silver Edition. What is the difference? The only difference is that the first “Black” version will have the ability to record video in 4K resolution at 30 fps, and the “Silver Edition,” unlike the first, will have a touch screen and is significantly cheaper.

HERO 4 Silver Edition will also be able to shoot video at 4K resolution, but the speed will be an order of magnitude lower - 15 fps, 2.7K - 30 fps, 1440p - 48 fps and 1080p - 60 fps. As you can see, the number of frames is exactly two times less than that of the Black version.

And now about the price:

  1. GoPro HERO 4 Black in Russia costs 29,990 rubles, in Ukraine - 9,200 UAH. Price in Europe - $500.
  2. GoPro HERO 4 Silver Edition in Russia can already be purchased for 16,500 rubles, and in Ukraine for 7,700 UAH. In Europe it sells for $400.
  3. GoPro HERO 4 - only 130 bucks in Europe, or 2,800 UAH. in Ukraine and 5,500 rubles. in Russia.
For our countries, the price is still very high, you need to wait a little and it will be more adequate, as in the countries of Europe and America.

GoPro HERO4 Case


Already familiar to this type of equipment, the plastic box perfectly demonstrates the updated product of this world-famous equipment manufacturer, and the contents of the box of the new GoPro HERO 4 Black version camera traditionally provide the opportunity for each of its owners to install this accessory in different conditions and on a huge number of surfaces.


The aquabox, traditional for such equipment, has not disappeared anywhere, as has the replaceable rear cover for it, which is indispensable in cases where protection only from frontal splashes is required, but you also want to record the sound from the microphones that are built into the camera with the maximum possible high level quality. The fact that there is a need to change the housing cover of this camera is said by the experts themselves who work for the GoPro manufacturing company.


The GoPro HERO 4 still has a microUSB port for charging the battery and transferring data to a PC. The battery has a capacity of 1160 mAh, which was enough for us so that during the testing period of one week the battery would not be completely discharged.

GoPro HERO4 Sound

Of the many improvements in this new product, you should pay attention to the analog-to-digital audio converter that is installed in this camera, which allows you to connect absolutely any microphone to it - this makes it possible to obtain extremely high-quality sound as a result. It should be noted that GoPro used to be slightly behind in this parameter, for example, from Sony ActionCam, but with the advent of the GoPro HERO4 camera, everything became absolutely in order in this regard. Also in this technical novelty, the developers have significantly improved the microphone built into it, managing to expand the dynamic range by 2 times.

GoPro HERO4 Camera Control

It is necessary to say a few words regarding the control of GoPro HERO 4. Three buttons, including a virtual shutter release and 2 adjustment buttons, are not only duplicated by pushers in the aquabox in the appropriate positions, but also provide the maximum level of comfort during daily use, when compared with HERO3 2014 years - there are only a couple of them.

GoPro HERO4 Video and Photo Capabilities

The high-tech capabilities of this video recorder are more than just interesting. Of course, the ability to connect wirelessly and visualize a frame via Wi-Fi using a smartphone or tablet with access to instantly uploading files to any social networks or video hosting sites is considered today to be the lot of extreme amateurs. But the ability of the new GoPro HERO 4 to record videos to a high-speed memory card at 30 frames per second and resolution up to 4K (Ultra HD) is one of those features that most professionals love when it comes to video recording their own adventures.

Also, this new product also received a new mode called “Immersive Mode”, i.e. increased coverage angle. GoPro Hero 4 is now the world's widest action camera! And after the microSD is completely filled with MTB and BMX stunts or skydiving, fans of the GoPro HERO 4 line of cameras edit extremely exciting videos, which can be diluted with 12 megapixel photographs.

In addition, GoPro HERO 4 2015 provides the opportunity to take not only a single photo, but also a time-lapse, and the step can be from a third of a second to one minute - it all depends solely on the desires of its owner. According to experts from the GoPro manufacturer, the photographs taken by this camera will be better in quality, much brighter and richer than those taken with similar video equipment offered today by other manufacturers of products of this kind.

Examples of photos:


The photos were reduced in size and slightly compressed, but in real life they are much better.


In addition, the developers of this camera have added a function for improved shooting in the dark. Various manual settings are also possible, which help to beautifully capture the Milky Way or the starry sky. And for those people who like to photograph cycling at night, a completely new mode has been created - shooting in automatic mode when there is a lack of light, i.e. The GoPro HERO 4 Black Standard 2015 camera will independently select all the necessary settings to obtain the highest quality results.

One of the coolest innovations was a mode called “ProTune” - in 2014, almost all of our contemporaries became obsessed with it. In fact, this mode is analogous to “Log” and other non-compressed formats, i.e. provides the user with the opportunity to maximize the colors from the video shot with this video camera.

Video shot on this camcorder:

Additional benefits of GoPro HERO 4 Black


It is worth noting several more important advantages of this new product:
  • the new camera added a QuikCapture hardware quick recording button, which was located at the top of the gadget and instantly turned on the recording function;
  • all the numerous innovations are responsible for the redesigned processor, which delivers twice as much performance;
  • there is a proprietary application designed for viewing and sharing photos and videos on the Internet;
  • a unique ability to remotely control the camera using Wi-Fi (works at a distance of 180 meters) and Bluetooth;
  • It is possible to use tags for the most convenient work with footage.

What were the first shortcomings of GoPro HERO 4 noticed?


Having already read latest reviews on various foreign forums and blogs, we can conclude that there is no need to rush into buying a new GoPro HERO 4! The fact is that the version is still, so to speak, a test version. It currently has many bugs and various shortcomings, for example:
  • the camera purchased back in 2014 needs to be re-tested, perhaps the next batches will be without lags and bugs;
  • the video quality in Ultra HD 4K mode is not super “cool”, but sometimes it turns out great;
  • any BacPac with “Go Pro Hero4” Black heats up to 70 degrees, it’s hot to hold in your hands;
  • many people complain about terrible lags and freezes after 3-5 minutes of using the video camera - it may be possible to fix it with firmware, but not a fact;
  • new type battery Does not fit previous generations of GoPro.
If you are looking for really high-quality, easy-to-use and multifunctional video equipment and have not yet decided which one to buy, then today on the international Internet you can easily find a set of examples of video recording in various operating modes of the GoPro HERO 4, moreover, in different weather conditions conditions. Having studied them, every potential future owner of this modern and high-quality video equipment can form their own impression of this unique action camera.

Watch the video review.

So, so, we see you want the best action camera in the world?! - A commendable and correct desire, but where to stop? Which model? Which one is right for you?

There are always a lot of questions, but there are only a few cameras. But today we will pay attention to the most popular ones and conduct an objective comparison of these two wonderful action cameras: and.

What equipment do they have?

It’s a good question, because you can rightly assume that if the camera is more expensive, then the kit is larger, but this is not true.

In the photo you see the standard kit of the GoPro Hero4 series action camera, it includes the following items:

  • Camera GoPro Hero4
  • Waterproof up to 40 meters
  • Rechargeable 1160mAh lithium ion battery
  • 3-position lock
  • Flat platform with adhesive tape
  • Curved platform on adhesive tape
  • USB cable
  • Instructions

The only difference between the sets of these models is the presence of an additional touch cover on Silver, which is designed for touch control of the display under water.

The first conclusion is that you don't win in any way with the kit.

What is the degree of protection and maximum depth?

Same good question, but even here we have to disappoint you or please you with the fact that all the security of GoPro action cameras is achieved thanks to, and it is absolutely the same in both cameras.

This box allows you to submerge the camera up to 40 meters, as well as withstand light shocks and falls from low heights. Manufacturing material: polycarbonate.

What about the size and weight of the cameras themselves?

This is also a good question, but even here they remain twins, since the weight and dimensions are absolutely the same (Black is only some 5 grams heavier than Silver).

You can even swap them in the protective boxes - they are absolutely compatible with all accessories and mounts, in all respects.

What about the opening hours?

Due to the fact that the batteries in these cameras are absolutely the same, the operating time is similar - about 1 - 1.5 hours, but for the Black it is 10-20 minutes less, since the processor is more powerful and consumes even more energy.

And if you are engaged in the field of photo and video shooting, you need a new interesting and powerful tool for filming, then this is the “workhorse” that you need.

Friends, you should not take this article as a call to action, but we just want to help you in choosing your action camera and our main goal is not just selling a camera, but selling a camera that will delight you every time you take it into your hands, the camera that will be ideal for you and your lifestyle. Be Hero!

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. About localization for Russian market never remembered.

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 that habitually protrudes above the surface with protective glass. 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 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.

GoPro HERO5 Black

SJCAM SJ6 LEGEND

GoPro HERO4 Black

SJCAM SJ5000X

The common Full HD runs at 120 frames per second, 240 frames for HD resolution. The video bitrate remained the same – 60 Mbit/s.
Full HD 60 FPS. Daily entry. Running and movement.

GoPro HERO5 Black

SJCAM SJ6 LEGEND

GoPro HERO4 Black

SJCAM SJ5000X

To get an idea of ​​the difference in shooting, here's an image from a GoPro HERO4 Black. The opponents are SJCAM S6 Legend and SJCAM 5000X Elite. All videos are posted without post-processing. The situation during a detailed comparison is not very rosy for GoPro; yes, it shoots well, but cameras with a three times lower price tag provide the same level. Perhaps the ceiling has been reached, or perhaps the company’s leaders have not made the proper conclusions.
4K. Daily entry. Crop on general and separate 4K.

GoPro HERO5 Black

SJCAM SJ6 LEGEND

GoPro HERO4 Black

SJCAM SJ5000X

Added software image stabilization during shooting. As expected, her work eats up about 10% of the image. Stabilization works only for Full HD at a speed of 60 frames per second; it turns off when the frequency and resolution increase.
Full HD 60 FPS. Night recording. Static location.

GoPro HERO5 Black

SJCAM SJ6 LEGEND

GoPro HERO4 Black

SJCAM SJ5000X

For fans of photos from action cameras, the ability to shoot in RAW has appeared, but competitors have already added it earlier. You can subsequently process the images using proprietary GoPro software.
Microphone test
GoPro HERO5 Black

GoPro HERO4 Black

The 1220 mAh battery lasts about the same time as the GoPro HERO4 Black. A couple of replaceable batteries will come in handy for active shooting.

GoPro HERO5 Black Summary

As a result, GoPro HERO5 Black turned out to be perfect. Yes, there are useful features 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 you to call the camera best offer among 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.