Which GoPro Should You Get: A Comparison

As far as action camera goes, GoPro reigns supreme.

The camera is sturdy, hardy, compact, highly portable—all while being able to capture visuals and moving images in clear quality. With so much packed into a small body, it comes as no surprise that getting a GoPro rank high on everyone’s wish list. If you’re thinking of getting one, here’s a nifty roundup to help you decide which GoPro model to get.

At a glance

GoPro HERO: For the casual shutterbug

Coming at almost half the price of its cousins, the GoPro HERO is an affordable option for those looking for a fuss-free, sturdy image-capturing device. It captures video in 1080p, which is plenty for the laymen and certainly good enough for those budding YouTubers. Images can also be captured at 10 megapixels, and it comes with video stabilisation for shaky hands—great for hobbyists, children and parents. Unlike its predecessor, the new GoPro HERO comes with a 2-inch display, allowing for better aim. It’s a relatively inexpensive all-terrain camera good for most adventures.

GoPro HERO, $295, available here 

GoPro HERO6: For the serious traveller

Not to be confused with the HERO, the HERO6 comes equipped with an in-house processing GP1 chip which helps boost its capabilities. Images captured here are of a better quality, and it works much better in low-light conditions. The HERO6 comes with HDR photo capture which allows users to take multiples images of varying exposures to combine them into one single properly exposed image. There’s also a unique touch zoom function to allow you to set up a shot by adjusting the distance of the subject. All in all, the flagship model is truly something to be impressed by. Those looking for a serious, sturdy camera will not be disappointed.

GoPro HERO6, $750, available here 

GoPro HERO5: For a value-for-money camera

This comes below the HERO6 for good reason: the HERO5 stands in between the HERO and HERO6 in terms of specifications and quality. It’s neither entry-level, nor can it match up to their flagship model. The main difference comes from the lack of the GP1 chip, which removes a few nifty functions like low-light performance and faster offload to phone. Video output wise, the HERO5 is also lower in resolution, topping at 4K resolution at 30fps. Compared to the HERO6, this will certainly translate to less smooth high-resolution footage and less sharp slow-motion captures. If you want the essentials of an action camera with paying a premium, then this might be the one for you.

GoPro HERO5, $640, available here 

GoPro Fusion: For capturing all-around immersive memories

The future of image is in 360—and this is probably the best out there. Take it down underwater to depths of up to 5m (lesser than its HERO counterparts, but still plenty for a 360 camera). The Fusion is also slightly larger as well to accommodate a larger battery. The downside? It’s hefty price tag. It also lacks a touchscreen, which means you’ll have to control the camera via the GoPro app for greater accuracy. For what it provides in terms of novelty, the Fusion lacks in terms of quality. Ultimately, 360 devices are still in the process of being improved; the stitched 360 images come out rather clean (stitching line might still be visible in certain cases), and video sharpness leaves more to be desired. Still, it’s an above-average 360 camera that can accompany you on your adventures.

GoPro Fusion, $1,050, available here