Should I purchase GoPro Hero6 Black? All specs and comparison!

There are so many options for shooting videos and photos! Ranging from DSLR cameras, mirrorless cameras, mobile phones etc. In today’s tech landscape, not everybody feels the need of purchasing a drone or an action camera. And if underwater video footage is a concern, a lot of phones these days also offer the functionality of waterproofing. However, if you have decided to purchase a GoPro, (there are definite advantages of a compact camera after all) here’s all you need to know about this action camera. Especially if you are considering the GoPro Hero6 Black.

GoPro this year launched the new GoPro Hero6 Black, the successor of its flagship camera GoPro Hero5. The new camera is not different from the older model in any way in appearance. So all old accessories, including the battery, are now compatible with the new GoPro. There are some changes though, that have been made to the interior of the newer model.

Find below a quick comparison of Hero6 and Hero5 at a glance

Read on for detailed description of changes in Hero6:

 1. Faster Processor

The new GoPro utilizes a faster processor called the “GP1” which enables new video shooting modes at 4K at 60 fps and 2.7K at 120 fps and 1080p at 240 fps, for super slow motion shots. The new shooting modes may not affect many users. But for professional videographers, it will definitely be a boon. Note: 30 fps is usually the normal rate used for shooting.

With the new processor, the dynamic range and colors have also improved for GoPro Hero 6 by two stops. Comparative images of GoPro Hero 5 and Hero 6 show a clear difference in the quality of image and colors. Low light photography is also better for Hero6 as a result of this tweak.

2. File Formats

The new processor now encodes video in a newer format at the higher frame rates, for 4K/60 and 1080p/240, called the High Efficiency Video Codec (HEVC or h.365). This newer format is also utilized in iOS 11 Apple devices. This format ensures that the file size is smaller than before, thus taking lesser space.

But, the older codec h.264 is usually more accepted and has been in use for years. The new h.265  format is still pretty new and unless you’re using a really fast computer (having at least 6th generation Intel chip), playing back videos, let alone editing, will be a problem on the computer at 4K/60. Also for mobile editing, the older mobile phones may not be able to edit the videos for h.265 protocol.

Thus, for the average user, sticking to 4K/30 may be a good option.

3. Video Stabilization

With Video stabilization the new cam is said to have taken huge leaps. Both Hero6 and Hero5 utilize digital stabilization, as Optical image stabilization is too much to ask for, from a tiny camera, which is more susceptible to jitters. Most smart phones and cameras that otherwise offer stabilization, offer Optical Image stabilization which performs better.

The stabilized output footage of Hero6 has only 5% cropping as compared to the older model. However, it is still a good idea to rely on motorized stabilizers like Karma Grip if you want to render smooth shake free footage. External motorized stabilization works better than Software stabilization.

4. Price

Gopro Hero6 retails at INR 35,000, INR 10,000 more than the older model. The cost of additional equipment to go with the GoPro like mounts, Karma Grip, Drones etc. is separate.

Should I buy GoPro Hero6?

For someone who already owns a Hero5: For someone who already owns a Hero5, it may not be the best option for them. Most new features in the new Hero6 are not very different from the older model. Unless you are looking for an upgrade. Or are an ardent Hero fan. In which case, you may go in for the newer model. The benefit of upgrade is, that all the older accessories are compatible with new Hero6

For someone who is purchasing GoPro for the first time: If you ask, a lot of added features to the GoPro may not be of significant use to a beginner, so one may consider going for an older model at a lesser cost. But if you are looking for a one time investment in a camera that probably offers the most flexibility in the range of action cameras, you may consider the new Hero6!

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Video Review:

Do cut me some slack, since it is an old YouTube video. I would like to think I’ve come a long way in creating videos since then, but if you would like to watch a video review of GoPro Hero 5 vs 6, here you go! 🙂