Along with the HERO13 Black, GoPro has also unveiled a small-sized entry-level model called the HERO 4K that will retail for $199 USD. While it lacks a lot of the features and functionality of its more expensive sibling, it still looks to be a reasonably capable action camera.
Key features
- UHD 4K30/1080p30 Video, 12MP Photos
- 2.7K60/50 2x Slow-Motion Video
- HyperSmooth Video Stabilization
- Rear LCD Touchscreen
- Voice Control, Wi-Fi Connectivity
- 16′ Waterproof without Housing
- 1-Hour Battery Runtime, USB-C Port
- GoPro Quik App
The HERO 4K weighs just 86g / 3.03 oz. It has physical dimensions of 56.6 W x 47.7 H x 29.4 D (mm).
Video & Photo Capture
The HERO can capture High Dynamic Range (HDR) Photo and Video. Video can be captured in 4K up to 30p and 4K in 10-bit. You can capture 2.7K at up to 60p.
- 4K 16:9 @30/25 fps
- 2.7K 16:9 @60/50 fps
- 1080p 16:9 @30/25 fps
Recordings are done in H.265 (HEVC) in 8-bit. The maximum bitrate is 50Mbps.
Photos can be captured as 12 megapixels and you can also take frame grabs from the video at 12 megapixels.
Photo Frame-Grabs from Video
- 8.29MP from 4K 16:94
- 11MP from 2.7K 16:9
- 2.1MP from 1080p 16:9
GoPro doesn’t list what sensor is being used. The HERO 4K has a F2.3 aperture lens and a 35mm equivalent focal length of 15mm.
There are no time time-lapse features or modes.
HyperSmooth Stabilization
The HyperSmooth stabilization algorithm automatically smooths out the bumps in your footage, no matter if you’re mountain biking, skiing, or chasing your dog at the dog park. HyperSmooth video stabilization is automatically applied in the Quik app.
Voice Control
Secure your camera using separately available body mounts and record hands-free using the 8 commands in 11 languages and 6 accents.
GoPro Quik App
- Easy-to-use tools allow you to edit your footage, tweak automatically generated highlight videos, or make your own videos from scratch.
- Change digital lenses after recording, zoom in on the best frames, and create thumbnails for your next social media post or YouTube video.
- Wirelessly upload video to your Quik app or the cloud without needing to use the USB-C connection on the camera.
Battery Time
The HERO 4K features an integrated battery that can’t be swapped out. The battery will last for up to 1 hour. It can be charged via USB-C.
Waterproof Depth
The HERO13 Black is waterproof to 16′ feet with no additional housing required. GoPro subscribers can get a “no questions asked” damaged camera replacement.
Replaceable, water-repelling lens cover
Hydrophobic cover glass sheds water to keep your shots crystal clear when things get wet. It’s durable, and easily replaceable, so you can swap it out if it’s ever damaged.
Price & Availability
As I previously mentioned, the GoPro HERO 4K will retail for $199.99 USD.
