The GoPro Hero 4 Black is a versatile and powerful action camera that has been a popular choice among adventure enthusiasts, filmmakers, and photographers for years. But with newer models like the GoPro Hero 8 and Hero 9 available in the market, is the Hero 4 Black still worth buying? In this article, we’ll delve into the features, pros, and cons of the GoPro Hero 4 Black to help you make an informed decision.
GoPro Hero 4 Black Overview
The GoPro Hero 4 Black was released in 2014 and was a significant upgrade to its predecessor, the Hero 3+. The Hero 4 Black features a 12-megapixel camera sensor, capable of capturing 4K video at 30 frames per second and 1080p video at 120 frames per second. It also has a wide-angle lens, Wi-Fi connectivity, and a built-in microphone.
The Hero 4 Black is known for its rugged design and compact size, making it an ideal companion for capturing high-quality video and photos in extreme conditions.
Key Features of the GoPro Hero 4 Black
- 12-megapixel camera sensor
- 4K video recording at 30fps
- 1080p video recording at 120fps
- Wide-angle lens
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Built-in microphone
- MicroSD card slot
- Waterproof without housing up to 131 feet (40 meters)
Pros of the GoPro Hero 4 Black
Image and Video Quality
The GoPro Hero 4 Black is capable of capturing stunning 4K video and 12-megapixel photos. The camera’s sensor is able to capture a wide dynamic range, resulting in vivid and detailed images. The wide-angle lens also allows for a broader field of view, making it ideal for capturing sweeping landscapes and group shots.
Compact and Rugged Design
The Hero 4 Black is built to withstand the rigors of extreme sports and outdoor activities. Its compact size and rugged design make it easy to mount on helmets, bikes, and other equipment, allowing you to capture footage from unique perspectives.
Battery Life
The Hero 4 Black has a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that provides up to 1 hour and 30 minutes of recording time on a single charge. This is more than enough time to capture a day’s worth of footage without needing to recharge.
Cons of the GoPro Hero 4 Black
Limited Touch Display
The Hero 4 Black has a limited touch display that only allows for basic camera settings and playback. This can be frustrating for users who want more control over their camera settings.
No GPS or Electronic Image Stabilization
Unlike newer GoPro models, the Hero 4 Black does not have built-in GPS or electronic image stabilization (EIS). This can make it more difficult to geotag videos and photos, and can result in shaky footage.
Outdated Software
The Hero 4 Black’s software is no longer supported by GoPro, which means users will not receive any further software updates or bug fixes.
Is the GoPro Hero 4 Black Worth Buying?
Considering the pros and cons of the GoPro Hero 4 Black, is it still worth buying? The answer depends on your needs and budget.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly action camera with great image and video quality, the Hero 4 Black is still a great option.
However, if you’re looking for more advanced features like GPS, EIS, and improved software, you may want to consider newer models like the GoPro Hero 8 or Hero 9.
| Feature | GoPro Hero 4 Black | GoPro Hero 8 | GoPro Hero 9 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4K Video Recording | Yes, at 30fps | Yes, at 60fps | Yes, at 60fps |
| GPS | No | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Image Stabilization | No | Yes | Yes |
| Software Updates | No | Yes | Yes |
Alternatives to the GoPro Hero 4 Black
If you’re looking for alternative action cameras to the GoPro Hero 4 Black, here are a few options to consider:
- DJI Osmo Action 2: A feature-rich action camera with 4K video recording, GPS, EIS, and a touchscreen display.
- Yi 4K+: A budget-friendly action camera with 4K video recording, EIS, and a touchscreen display.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the GoPro Hero 4 Black is still a great action camera that offers excellent image and video quality, a compact and rugged design, and a long-lasting battery life. While it may lack some features compared to newer models, it’s still a great option for those on a budget.
Before making a purchase, consider your needs and budget, and weigh the pros and cons of the Hero 4 Black against other action cameras on the market.
Ultimately, the GoPro Hero 4 Black is worth buying if you’re looking for a reliable and affordable action camera that can deliver high-quality results.
What are the key features of the GoPro Hero 4 Black?
The GoPro Hero 4 Black is a high-end action camera that boasts impressive features such as 4K video recording at 30fps, 12-megapixel photos, and a wide-angle lens with a field of view of 140 degrees. It’s also waterproof without the need for an additional housing, with a depth rating of 40 meters. Additionally, it has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for easy transfer and sharing of content.
Other notable features include electronic image stabilization, Protune mode for advanced settings, and a built-in microphone with improved audio quality. The camera also has a removable battery, which is convenient for extended use. Overall, the Hero 4 Black is designed to capture stunning video and photos in a variety of environments, from surfing to hiking to everyday moments.
How does the GoPro Hero 4 Black compare to other GoPro models?
The GoPro Hero 4 Black is the flagship model of the Hero 4 series, which also includes the Silver and Session models. The main difference between the Black and Silver is the video resolution, with the Black offering 4K at 30fps and the Silver maxing out at 1080p at 60fps. The Session, on the other hand, is a more compact and lightweight option with a slightly lower video resolution but a more affordable price tag.
In terms of image quality, the Hero 4 Black outperforms the Silver and Session, thanks to its more advanced sensor and processor. The Black also has more features, such as Protune mode and electronic image stabilization, which are not available on the Silver and Session. However, the Silver and Session are still great options for those on a budget or looking for a more compact camera. Ultimately, the choice between the Hero 4 models depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Is the GoPro Hero 4 Black suitable for underwater use?
Yes, the GoPro Hero 4 Black is suitable for underwater use, with a depth rating of 40 meters (131 feet) without the need for an additional housing. This makes it an excellent choice for surfers, scuba divers, and snorkelers who want to capture stunning underwater footage. The camera’s waterproof design and waterproof microphone ensure that it can withstand the water pressure and capture clear audio.
However, it’s essential to note that the camera’s touchscreen LCD is not usable underwater, and the camera’s battery life may be reduced when used in cold water. Additionally, the camera’s built-in microphone may pick up some water noise, which can affect audio quality. Despite these limitations, the Hero 4 Black is still an excellent choice for capturing underwater footage and photos.
How is the battery life of the GoPro Hero 4 Black?
The battery life of the GoPro Hero 4 Black varies depending on the mode and settings used. According to GoPro’s estimates, the battery life is around 50-60 minutes when recording 4K video at 30fps, and around 1-2 hours when recording 1080p video at 60fps. However, these times can be affected by factors such as screen brightness, Wi-Fi connectivity, and Protune mode.
In real-world use, the battery life may be shorter or longer than GoPro’s estimates, depending on your specific usage. It’s essential to keep an eye on the battery level and charge the camera regularly to avoid running out of power during critical moments. Additionally, the removable battery design allows you to carry spare batteries and swap them out when needed.
Can I use the GoPro Hero 4 Black for live streaming?
Yes, the GoPro Hero 4 Black is capable of live streaming, thanks to its built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. You can use the GoPro app to stream live footage to platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and Periscope. The camera can also be connected to a computer or mobile device using a USB-C cable for more traditional live streaming setups.
However, it’s essential to note that live streaming may require some additional equipment, such as a capture card or encoder, depending on the platform and setup used. Additionally, the camera’s battery life may be reduced when live streaming, so it’s essential to keep an eye on the battery level and plan accordingly.
Is the GoPro Hero 4 Black worth buying in 2023?
While the GoPro Hero 4 Black was released in 2014, it is still a capable action camera that can deliver stunning video and photos. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable option for capturing outdoor activities, the Hero 4 Black is still a great choice. Additionally, its price has dropped significantly since its release, making it an even more attractive option for those on a budget.
However, it’s essential to note that the Hero 4 Black is an older model, and GoPro has since released newer cameras with improved features and performance. If you’re looking for the latest and greatest features, such as improved image stabilization or enhanced audio, you may want to consider a newer model. Ultimately, whether or not the Hero 4 Black is worth buying depends on your specific needs and budget.
What accessories are available for the GoPro Hero 4 Black?
The GoPro Hero 4 Black has a wide range of accessories available, including mounts, housings, and cases. Some popular accessories include the Chest Harness, which allows you to capture immersive footage from a chest-mounted perspective, and the Karma Grip, which provides electronic image stabilization for smoother footage.
Additionally, there are many third-party accessories available, such as waterproof cases, screen protectors, and floating grips. GoPro also offers a range of software and editing tools, such as GoPro Studio and Adobe Premiere Pro, which can help you enhance and edit your footage. Regardless of your specific needs, there’s likely an accessory or software solution available to help you get the most out of your Hero 4 Black.