Assessing the Performance of the GoPro Hero9 Black
GoPro Hero9 Black: A Game-Changer for Action Photography and Video
The GoPro Hero9 Black, the latest addition to the GoPro family, is making waves with its impressive features. Here's what you need to know about this compact powerhouse.
The Hero9 boasts a new sensor capable of shooting 20-megapixel photos and 5K video, offering exceptional clarity and detail. For those seeking wide-angle perspectives, the new Max Lens Mod is a must-have accessory.
Battery life is a concern no more, as the Hero9 offers 30% more battery life compared to its predecessor, the Hero8. This extended battery life means more time capturing your adventures.
The Hero9 comes with 4 presets: Cinema, Action, Standard, and slow-mo, each designed to enhance your footage in unique ways. The Action preset, for instance, boosts your stabilization, while the Cinema preset shoots in 16:9 aspect ratio and the standard 24fps. The slow-mo preset, as you might expect, jackups the frame rate for stunning slow-motion effects.
For those seeking even more creative control, the GoPro subscription offers a range of benefits. With the subscription, you get unlimited cloud backup of your photos and videos, automatic cloud upload while charging and connected to WiFi, access to premium features and video editing tools within the GoPro app, discounts on GoPro cameras and accessories, and even out-of-warranty camera replacement.
The Hero9 also features HyperSmooth 3.0 with in-camera horizon leveling, TimeWarp 3.0, and Scheduled capture mode. If 4K @ 60fps is too demanding for your computer, shooting 2.7K @ 60fps is an alternative.
The Hero9 is not compatible with the super suit and requires the Hero 9 protective housing which is depth rated to 60m. It also comes with a new Front Display and a built-in mounting system.
The GoPro subscription includes unlimited cloud storage for GoPro footage, a replacement camera if broken, and up to 50% off gear at GoPro.com. However, the discount provided by the subscription is limited to 10 items per year.
The GoPro Hero9 Black has a U.S. MSRP of $449.99. If you opt for the GoPro subscription, the bundle is priced at $349.98. The subscription, which needs to be continued at $4.17 per month after a year, significantly enhances the functionality of the Hero9 by securing your footage, enhancing editing, and protecting your investment.
For underwater use, consider the SeaLife Aquapod, an extendable accessory designed for capturing selfies or getting the camera closer to subjects. The Beneath the Surface Multigrip handle adds stability to the GoPro while diving or during any other activity.
If you find that your 4K @ 60fps video looks jagged and jittery in playback, it might need to be exported under a different codec or uploaded to YouTube and played there. The cloud storage provided by the GoPro subscription does not support content with GoPro Fusion.
The Hero9 also features the HindSight mode, allowing you to capture up to 30 seconds of footage before starting to record. This ensures you never miss a moment of the action.
With its impressive specs, innovative features, and the added benefits of the GoPro subscription, the GoPro Hero9 Black is a must-have for any action photographer or videographer. It's currently on sale for $399.99, making it an even more attractive option.
- The new sensor on the GoPro Hero9 Black allows for editing 20-megapixel photos and 5K video, providing exceptional detail and clarity.
- For those seeking wide-angle perspectives, the Max Lens Mod is a valuable accessory for the GoPro Hero9.
- The GoPro Hero9 offers 30% more battery life compared to its predecessor, allowing for extended periods of travel and capturing adventures.
- The GoPro Hero9 has 4 presets: Cinema, Action, Standard, and slow-motion, each offering unique ways to enhance your footage.
- The GoPro subscription offers various benefits, including unlimited cloud backup, automatic cloud upload, access to premium video editing tools, discounts on gear, and even out-of-warranty camera replacement.
- The Hero9 camera is not compatible with the Super Suit and requires the Hero 9 protective housing, depth-rated to 60m.
- For underwater use, consider the SeaLife Aquapod, an accessory designed for capturing selfies or bringing the camera closer to subjects. The Beneath the Surface Multigrip handle adds stability during diving or any other activity.
- If your 4K @ 60fps video appears jagged and jittery in playback, consider exporting it under a different codec or uploading it to YouTube for smoother playback.
- With innovative features like HindSight mode and the added benefits of the GoPro subscription, the GoPro Hero9 Black is a must-have for any action photographer or videographer, especially with its current sale price of $399.99.
