The best GoPro cameras
GoPro Camera – Buying Guide, Opinions and Comparison in 2022
Nowadays, cameras have adapted to any need we have and, if you are looking for a model that allows you to record while doing your extreme sports, definitely your ideal option is to buy an action camera like the GoPro. Among the models that currently stand out is the GoPro Hero7 Silver, a camera that offers a resolution of 10 megapixels for photos and video in 4K HD definition. Therefore, it is an alternative at an attractive cost to record any action sport with quality. On the other hand, there is the GoPro Hero9 Black, a waterproof option with a front and rear screen. In addition, its 5K video quality and automatic adjustment technology will allow you to achieve greater realism in your shots.
Opinions on the best GoPro cameras
Whenever we want to buy a new action camera, it will be very important to take into account the most important features offered by each model that we find on the market. The same happens with the GoPro trademark, which is considered the best camera brand.
cheap gopro camera
GoPro Hero7 Silver
Although the GoPro brand has a wide range of cameras, which have been designed to meet the needs of those who want to shoot outdoors, you should not spend too much money to acquire one. If you are thinking of buying a cheap GoPro camera, this model has many attractive qualities that you might be interested in.
For example, it has been designed with a lens that allows you to take photos with a resolution of 10 megapixels and its burst function is practical to take up to 15 photos in a second. As for video quality, it can reach 4K resolution, offering realism and defined colors.
On the other hand, it is submersible, has a built-in microphone and also speakers. Likewise, you won’t have to study complicated manuals, since its different capture modes offer intuitive and simple use.
Its weight, on the other hand, is only 117 grams, so it will not affect your performance in sports and you can carry it comfortably.
This alternative can be considered as the best value for money GoPro camera. Learn more about her to decide if it is what you need.
Pros
Touch screen: Its use and choice of functions is very simple, thanks to this quality on its screen.
Voice control: You can activate functions without pressing buttons, simply through verbal commands.
Stabilizer: You can achieve smooth recordings, even though you are in motion.
Cons
Integrated battery: Because the battery cannot be removed, its use will be limited to the autonomy it provides, with no option to change it to continue recording.
GoPro Hero camera
GoPro Hero9 Black
If you want to be the protagonist of your videos, without the inconvenience of not knowing if the framing is correct, it is best to opt for a GoPro like the Hero9 Black. Its double screen, front and rear, allow you to know at all times what the lens is capturing, to make immediate changes.
On the other hand, this GoPro Hero camera stands out for its 5K video quality, suitable for creating highly realistic professional videos. You can even zoom in and get the best focus, as well as record in 8x slow motion, an effect that gives shots more drama. Now, to the brand’s already effective stabilizer, HyperSmooth 3.0 technology is added, which will make the videos smoother. It even allows adjustments such as alignment with the horizon.
Among other relevant features, its automatic processing is capable of choosing the best settings, according to the lighting and type of shot.
Given its qualities, it is not surprising that those who have used this model place it among the best GoPro cameras of 2022. We offer you more information below.
Pros
Image quality: By reaching 5K resolution and complementing its design with a 23.6 MP sensor, you can get very real, sharp videos and shots with great color contrast.
Automatic mode: According to the light and qualities of the environment, the device can choose the best configuration to carry out the shot.
Personalization: This camera allows you to adapt accessories such as spotlights or add microphones, which can further enhance its qualities.
Cons
Storage card: This option does not include a card, so you will have to pay extra if you do not have one that is compatible.
GoPro sports camera
GoPro Hero7 Black
The GoPro Hero7 Black camera is considered an excellent GoPro sports camera model thanks to its movement prediction function to increase the fluidity of the recording without the need to use an image stabilizer.
If you still do not know which is the best GoPro camera, we recommend you look at this model that has an HDR function, which automatically applies tone mapping and digital noise reduction. In addition, it records 4K video thanks to this 12-megapixel camera and you can also submerge it in water up to 10 meters deep.
Thanks to its WiFi connectivity, you will be able to transmit your videos live and through Facebook Live, as well as saving them on the SD card in case you are going to edit them on your computer.
If you still don’t know which GoPro camera to buy, we recommend choosing a model that allows you to record at very high speeds for great slow motion effects.
Pros
HDR : This camera will allow you to get spectacular images thanks to its automatic high dynamic range function.
Stabilization : With its HyperSmooth movement system, you will achieve a great stabilization effect, without the need for a stabilizer.
Transmission : Thanks to its WiFi connectivity, you can stream directly when you are recording with this camera.
Cons
Battery : The duration of your battery can be a little reduced, so you will have to buy an extra one.
GoPro Hero4 camera
GoPro Hero4 Silver Music Edition
Among the cheapest models, you can find the GoPro Hero4 camera, which is considered the best GoPro camera of the moment thanks to its great balance between quality and price. This is a model of sports action camera with WiFi connection. Although it is not the cheapest camera, it has a very affordable price.
It has an image resolution of up to 12 megapixels and can withstand a submersion depth of up to 40 meters below sea level. It has an automatic low light or night function, which adjusts the camera’s frame rate to enhance dark tones.
The video quality of this camera will allow you to record at 4k, 1080p60, 720p120 and 960p100 for fast motion effects. In addition, it has a series of special modes for timelapse: Night Photo and Night Lapse.
Before choosing your next action camera, it is important that you take care that the model allows you simple and intuitive control. This model has a practical touch screen with which you can watch your previous recordings.
Pros
Protune : Thanks to this system, you will be able to preserve the best quality in your videos, since it will allow you to adjust the sensitivity, white balance, sharpness and exposure.
Night mode: This camera automatically adjusts the frame rate in order to brighten the dark areas of the image.
Touch : You can easily control this model thanks to its practical integrated touch screen.
Cons
Input: It is important that you take care of the input to charge the battery, because if you do not protect it well, you will have problems in the future to keep the device with enough energy.
Underwater GoPro Camera
GoPro Hero8 Black
The Hero8 is an underwater GoPro camera and one of the most versatile that the brand has launched, since it can be adapted to the needs of athletes, vloggers and professional content creators.
To get to know it better, we can mention its TimeWarp 2.0 system, which automatically adjusts the speed based on the movement it detects and the light conditions. This way, you don’t need to get distracted and make changes, the device will be able to do it for you. Similarly, its HyperSmooth 2.0 technology helps capture fluid shots, while its three adjustment levels will help you choose the most convenient in each situation.
In relation to its design, it should be noted that it has been optimized compared to previous models. This will allow for quicker media changes and easier battery replacement. Consequently, you will have the camera ready to continue recording without missing important moments.
Choosing the best GoPro camera can seem like a difficult project, so it’s worth taking a closer look at each option.
Pros
LiveBurst: This feature allows the device to start recording even 1.5 seconds before the shot. So you don’t miss important moments.
Voice control: The device recognizes 14 verbal commands, which will prevent you from having to manipulate the camera; it is even possible to turn it on without touching it.
Live transmission: Its GoPro application allows the live transmission of your shots, in addition to being able to do it easily.
Cons
Front screen: This model only has an informative front screen, which shows some interesting data related to the battery and the recording time.
Underwater GoPro Camera
GoPro Hero6 Black
With the GoPro Hero6 Black underwater camera, you can be sure that you have a robust and waterproof filming equipment, even without a protective case. This recording equipment has a touch screen of up to 2 inches, ideal for controlling the camcorder.
The GoPro Hero6 Black has a recording quality of up to 4K at 60fps or 2.7K at 120fps, among others. It has a photographic resolution of 12 megapixels. It is an ideal camera for recording underwater, as it allows you to submerge it up to 10 meters without a housing.
This camera stands out for its great stability thanks to the advanced stabilization system it incorporates. In addition, you will be able to save your photographs in RAW format, which allows you to better edit them later.
Before choosing your new GoPro camera, it is important that you look at the resistance of the equipment, since being an action camera it must resist certain blows and strong movements.
Pros
Stabilizer : This camera has an advanced stabilization system that helps you get much smoother images.
Formats : The fact that it allows you to save your photos in RAW format is a great advantage when it comes to preserving the best image quality.
Screen : Thanks to its practical touch screen, you can intuitively and easily control this camera.
Cons
Heating : This equipment tends to heat up easily when using it, which can become very uncomfortable.
Guide to buying a GoPro camera
Technological advancement is a never ending race and at present it has taken a dizzying pace. Every time a brand releases a new product, it is highly recommended to review all previous models, especially if we are talking about an action camera, since each new version always brings new features or more advanced and higher quality components..
In any comparison of GoPro cameras, it is important to look at details such as its resolution, recording speed and control, among others. But don’t worry, in the following guide to buying the best GoPro camera we explain what you should keep in mind when purchasing your new equipment.
Shopping guide
Resolution and image size
Obviously, the most important feature when choosing a camera is its resolution when taking photos and the size of the image when recording video. If we want a camera that offers great image quality and definition in the details, it is likely that the value of the camera will change significantly. Let’s remember that currently practically all video cameras record at 4K, so many clients are requesting their work in that size, however, Full HD or 1080p is still the most used because it has a good balance in terms of size of file and quality in the details.
As for taking pictures with an action camera, keep in mind that in order to get a better quality in the photographs that you are going to print later, it is necessary that the camera offers high resolutions. GoPros, average, have a photography function and its resolution of about 10 megapixels. However, you can find models of 18 megapixels or more, although remember that this difference significantly affects the price of the equipment, so if you are looking for a good and cheap GoPro camera and want to know how much the camera costs, you will have to pay attention to this characteristic.
recording speed
GoPro cameras are characterized, on the one hand, by their image quality and wide field of view, which is why they provide a very characteristic perspective of these equipment and fisheye photographic lenses. And, on the other hand, they stand out for the fluidity that their videos show, which is achieved by the recording speeds that these compact action cameras allow.
In the recording settings, it’s common to see a number to the right of the video size, such as 1080p30. That last value indicates the recording rate in frames, and the higher the number, the more fluid slow-motion effects you’ll be able to do. A camera recording at 1080p60 indicates that the frame size is 1920 x 1080 with progressive frames at 60 fps.
Operating modes
One of the most interesting features of these action cameras is that they allow the user to make different adjustments with a precision similar to that of professional cameras, since some models have an automatic or manual exposure function, in case you have a little experience in photography and video. Thanks to this, you can choose the values of sensitivity, exposure and shutter speed to expose the image to your liking.
On the other hand, the most current models of GoPro action cameras incorporate new image processing systems, which clean and improve the visual quality of your photos and videos just by activating special operating modes such as HDR or high-range video. dynamic, single or burst photo shot, timelapse mode, among others.
Screen and control
Another factor that you will not be able to let go unnoticed is the display screen that the camera incorporates, since it is the one that will allow you to know the framing and recording characteristics chosen. Some models incorporate a small touch screen, with which you can operate the camera easily and intuitively and with it make all the adjustments you want. However, as well as models with a screen, you can find cameras without a screen on the market, such as the GoPro Fusion.
In case you buy a GoPro model that does not include a screen, the control of the equipment is carried out through small physical buttons on the side of the camera and its operation is completely basic. On the other hand, there are models that include an innovative voice command control system that facilitates the start-up and recording of this equipment.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How to use GoPro as a webcam?
First of all, you will need to connect your computer to the wireless network generated by the GoPro camera. Second, you’ll need to get the GoPro’s IP address by accessing the network preferences of the system you’re using. Now, after opening the VLC software, there is a tab where you will put the IP and in the video player the network dump is located, where a URL address will appear. Here the first digits of the URL are replaced by the IP address. In this way, you will already have the GoPro signal active to make any calls or streaming.
Q2: How to attach a GoPro camera to a helmet?
To mount your GoPro camera safely on a helmet, you should keep in mind that the helmet mounts have a sticker on the part that goes in contact with the helmet. This base can be flat or curved, depending on the area of the helmet where you want to fix it. Make sure to clean the surface very well before adhering the sticker and, after applying it, check that it does not come off. In this way, you can now safely install your GoPro on the base. Although some cameras come with all the accessories, you can still buy them separately.
Q3: How to reset GoPro Hero4 camera?
Sometimes, it will be necessary to perform a settings reset on GoPro action cameras, especially if you have used it for a while, since you will most likely have changed some recording settings, so you will want to go back to the settings it had factory if you plan to sell the equipment or start using it again from scratch.
In case you have some problems with the HDMI connection or if you notice a delay or slowdown in the response when you configure the camera, it will be convenient to perform a factory reset. This is done by accessing the camera preferences, in the factory reset section and, finally, confirming the reset.
Q4: How to take out the GoPro camera from the case?
In order to remove the GoPro camera from the housing, you will need to lift the safety tab located on the top of the camera, applying a little force. After lifting the tab, proceed to release the latch that holds the two sides of the case together. Finally, you will be able to remove the camera from the housing. To close it again, you will need to perform the same steps so that the camera is fully secured in the case.
Q5: Which camera is better, GoPro or Sony?
Both action cameras have very good results, so it is important to know both your budget and the details and characteristics of each model before making your choice. While some models have different recording modes or speeds, other models are simpler. This generally has to do with the price, so as the model becomes more advanced, the price is going to be directly affected. There is no better model, but the one that best suits your needs.
Q6: Can I use a GoPro camera as a security camera?
You will not be able to use your GoPro as a video surveillance camera as such, but you will be able to capture your last minutes of recording in case you activate the Loop Video. This function allows you to record to the SD card the duration of the video that you define in case of an emergency or as soon as you press the record button.
Q7: How to connect my GoPro camera to mobile?
To successfully connect a GoPro camera to a mobile phone, you need to follow the steps below. First of all, make sure you have the camera turned on. Access the preferences and, in the connections section, link another device. Next, from the mobile phone, you must launch the GoPro application. You should see a message that the system has found the device.
Q8: How to make slow motion on GoPro camera?
To do slow motion with a GoPro, you’ll need to make sure your model supports high-speed video recording. In principle, it is important to know that, at a higher frame rate when recording, you will be able to achieve a better slow motion effect. Therefore, if we record a video at 60 fps, we can export videos at 24 fps and enjoy slow motion. In addition, the market offers cameras that record at 60, 120, 250 or more frames per second.
How to use a GoPro camera
GoPro action cameras are specially designed for those extreme athletes who want to record all their adventures and experiences in a comfortable and very simple way. That is why the creators of this camera have concentrated on providing it with easy and intuitive handling. It doesn’t matter what model you have, the operation in general is the same for everyone, so we have decided to create a very simple guide with which you will be able to know how to use your GoPro camera correctly.
Check the instruction
It is highly recommended to start by removing all the contents of the package and paying special attention to the instructions. In it, you will be able to know the location and name of each button. Regardless of the model of your camera, GoPros usually have three buttons with which the entire equipment will be controlled. The buttons found on most GoPros are: the power button or MODE, the shutter button or SELECTOR and the button that is responsible for connecting to a WIFI network.
On and off
To turn on the camera, you will need to press the power button for about 3 seconds until the camera emits a series of beeps and a flashing red light appears next to the button. At that time the camera will be on and you can check it by seeing the information on the screen. Please note that to turn off the camera, you will need to follow the same procedure and press the power button for 3 seconds or until the red light and sound prompt you.
Understanding the information on the screen
You can choose between video, image capture, burst of images or Time-Lapse. Second, you will see the values in time, resolution in megapixels and file format. Third, the screen indicates a two-digit numerical counter that represents the number of images you have taken so far. Finally, at the bottom of the screen you will see information such as the duration you have available to continue recording, in addition to being able to see the battery charge, so that you never run out of charge in the middle of recording.
Choose the recording mode
If you want to change the recording mode, such as from video to photo, you will need to access the GoPro menu. In order to display the menu, you must press the power button and, as you continue to press it, you will select a different operating mode. The most common modes to choose from are video, photo, photo burst, and tools. When choosing the preferred operating mode, you will need to wait approximately one second for the camera to execute the selection, therefore you will no longer need to press any other buttons.
Initial setup
Lastly, it is important that you choose your camera settings before starting a new recording. In this way, you can make sure of the recording quality, frame rate, the use of the WiFi function, file size or memory card formatting.
