GoPro continues to demonstrate, for yet another year, that its action cameras are a great option if you are looking for a device with which to record in practically any type of scenario. For a few days I tried the GoPro Hero 8 and all my sensations were confirmed. So if you are interested in knowing what it offers, go ahead.
GoPro Hero 8, video analysis
GoPro Hero 8, another step in the right direction
GoPro has gone through a major slump that almost cost them business, luckily for them with the Hero 6 they knew how to straighten the course and return to profit. It is true that sales are no longer like years ago, where practically everyone wanted one. But what they have achieved with these last generations has meant that many action sports lovers or those who simply wanted a solvent and small camera to place in multiple places found in them a good option.
Still, this GoPro Hero 8 has some aspects that could feel like a throwback when compared to its previous generation. But if you like, I'll tell you the highlights very directly and try to put everything in context so you know what you're going to find and what this action camera offers.
The best of the GoPro Hero 8
With a design very similar to the Hero 7 and a finish on its materials with a rubbery touch, I consider that it is still at a good level and that it is a durable camera. You will have to give her a lot of whiplash so that she is physically harmed. Still, these are the main values of this GoPro Hero 8.
For starters, this camera is capable of recording video at 4K resolution and 60 fps. Clips of videos that, as you will see below, stand out especially for the system of HyperSmooth 2.0 stabilization. Recording freehand and walking, the fluidity and softness of the captured material stands out. In addition, in this generation the stabilization is applied even in the highest quality mode and highest frame rate possible.
The other highlight is that when it comes to slow motion, the frame rate at 1080p resolution is also doubled. And of course, being able to count on video to 240 fps It gives a lot of play in order to achieve very epic scenes in post-production.
From here, with an image quality that is very characteristic of GoPro and satisfactory in general, especially if we later spend some time editing to correct and give a more cinematic look, the rest of the features that make this GoPro camera stand out. are the following.
- You no longer need a cage to attach to the various accessories and supports, instead the base includes the two tabs with which to hold it.
- It maintains the same layout of buttons and front screen for faster information consultation and recording mode. So it's very easy to use if you've already had a GoPro.
- The rear touch screen is responsive and also looks good outdoors in bright sunlight.
- Not needing a case to dive up to 10m deep was something that already existed in previous models, but it is still an advantage as it improves audio capture.
- The audio it records has also been improved, and if you want or need more quality, because you are going to use it as a vlog camera, you can connect an external micro to it using the new multimedia accessory or the USB C to 3,5 mm jack adapter.
- Mode Time Warp 2.0 improvement, now you have an automatic mode and it is an option that allows you to obtain very interesting material for productions of all kinds. With a little imagination you can get a lot out of it.
- The operating system improves its interface and the new option that allows you to create profiles in the different video or photo modes with settings depending on the type of content you want to generate is a success. Improve usability and you can quickly change settings.
- At the photography level, with a 12MP sensor, the quality of the images is good and the modes SuperPhoto and HDR They help in fuller scenes. Although the photographic theme has never been what has attracted me the most and interested me in a GoPro.
- Through software the GoPro offers what they call "Digital Lenses". An option that allows you to simulate different focal lengths, from more ultra-wide angle to more telephoto. One more possibility that in some cases can be useful.
- Live burst, 1,5 sec video captures before and after pressing the shutter button. This is how you choose the best capture when photographing action scenes.
The worst of the GoPro Hero 8
So far the positive part, but like any other product it also has aspects where something else is missing. It is true that some are inherited from previous models and others simply a change that some will note as negative and others as a simple anecdote.
What I liked the least is, in part, the image that is too sharp. I mean, just like on most mobile phones, the video clip is overfocused. The edges, the lines that define the objects, feel somewhat marked and break with that idea of a slightly more cinematographic video that I am used to. But I also understand that it is a characteristic of the camera because of how it processes the image and the lens it uses.
Another point that may not please everyone is that its dimensions have changed slightly. It is slightly larger than the Hero 7 and that means that, for example, you can no longer use it on the manufacturer's own gimbal. With HyperSmooth 2.0 it is hardly necessary, but if you already had a housing for deeper dives neither, as well as other possible accessories such as rigs for vlog camera setups or similar.
Yes, it has caught my attention that in this model the glass that protects the lens can no longer be removed. In the Hero 6 and 7 yes and it was a very good idea. If by any chance the camera received a blow and it broke or scratched you could change it yourself. Now it is not like that, so in case of damage the cost rises. And then there is not being able to place ND filters much more easily and safely at the same time.
And finally, the new media accessories That allow you to add a screen to see yourself while you record yourself or add an LED light are fine, but it still seems to me that with those of other brands you can have something similar for less money. Although this is already the decision of each one to see to what extent they are interested or not.
GoPro experience in every way
The GoPro Hero 8 is a camera that without major changes in terms of audio and video quality, yes brings enough to be more attractive. If you have a Hero 7, the jump is less, but if you are still using models prior to these two, making the leap is worth it.
The user experience is now much more rewarding thanks to an operating system where the interface has been substantially improved. We continue to move through the system through its touch screen and the menus are clearer and easier to understand. Although if you want you can continue using the smartphone app. Even so, the highlight and the main improvement in my opinion is the ability to edit or create your own settings when taking photos or recording video.
All this plus all its options at the video recording level allows you to capture quality content with which to create spectacular videos, or simply perfect for what you need. Because there is a type of use that is rarely discussed but is also very attractive, and it is the possibility of broadcasting video over the internet. You can connect the camera to an HDMI capture through its USB C to HDMI output or stream via streaming at 1080p quality. This for direct and other uses such as e-Sport championships, etc., is very attractive.
In short, with a very GoPro experience, the Hero 8 is a great action camera. For the same price, it is not the best option for everyone, because some with their smartphone and a gimbal already have plenty for those videos that are recorded in their city or on a trip. But if you need a tough camera, that you can put in the water, attach anywhere, etc., this is a very good alternative.
If you are interested, we leave you a link. Which by the way, the camera It costs 425 euros.
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