Comparisons: GoPro HERO7 Black and GoPro HERO (2018)

This article compares the GoPro HERO7 Black and GoPro HERO (2018), both released in 2018, focusing on shooting performance and body specifications.

hero7-black thumbnailHERO7 Black
VS
hero-2018 thumbnailHERO 2018
GoProDB's Choice
GoPro HERO7 Black thumbnail

HERO7 Black

  • Although released in the same year, there is a significant performance difference.
  • The performance of the HERO (2018) is comparable to that of a smartphone camera.
  • While its performance and features are not particularly high, the HERO7 Black is still better.

Key Factors

1

Shooting Performance and Features

The shooting performance of the HERO7 Black is significantly superior.

2

Body Features

Similar, but there is a difference in supported microSD card capacity.

3

Size and Weight

Both are nearly identical in size and weight.

Shooting Performance and Features: HERO7 Black as the Flagship Model Takes the Lead

When comparing shooting performance, the HERO7 Black stands out as the flagship model of its time, supporting up to 4K/60fps. It also enables frame rates up to 240fps for lower resolutions, making it a viable option even today. In contrast, the HERO (2018) maxes out at Full HD/60fps, meaning modern smartphones may surpass its video quality in some cases.

As for shooting features, the HERO7 Black introduced GoPro’s game-changing stabilization technology, HyperSmooth, marking its debut with this model. Although it doesn't match the capabilities of the latest HyperSmooth versions, it is far superior to the standard stabilization found on the HERO (2018), delivering smoother and more stable footage.

Additionally, the HERO7 Black supports live streaming and loop recording, features absent from the HERO (2018).

Body Features

In terms of body design, the HERO7 Black and HERO (2018) share similar features, including the absence of a front-facing display. The primary difference lies in their support for microSD cards, with the HERO7 Black accommodating up to 256GB compared to the HERO (2018)’s 128GB limit.

Size and Weight: Virtually Identical

Due to shared internal components, such as the chipset and sensor size, the HERO7 Black and HERO (2018) have nearly identical dimensions. They differ in weight by just 2g, making them functionally the same in terms of portability.

However, the significant difference in features tips the scale in favor of the HERO7 Black. Still, both are now considered older models, so it’s advisable to compare them with newer GoPro models to ensure you make the best choice.

EVOLUTION DATASHEET

Spec Position of HERO7 Black & HERO 2018 in GoPro History

Positioning matrix showing how HERO7 Black and HERO 2018 compare across the entire GoPro evolution history.

HERO7 Black
HERO7 Black
Release Year
2018(-8 yrs)
20122026
Shooting Performance
Max Video Resolution
4K @60fps
720p8K
Photo Resolution
12.00 MP
5.00 MP50.00 MP
Slow-Motion
Max Standard Slow-Motion
8x (1080p)
2x16x
Max Burst Slow-Motion
None
None32x (1080p)
Stabilization
Stabilization
HyperSmooth
NoneHyperSmooth 6.0
Body Specs
Body Size (Volume)
62.3×44.9×33 (92cm³)
242 cm³52 cm³
Weight
116g
220g63g
Max SD Storage
256GB
32GB1TB
HERO 2018
HERO 2018
Release Year
2018(-8 yrs)
20122026
Shooting Performance
Max Video Resolution
1440p @60fps
720p8K
Photo Resolution
10.00 MP
5.00 MP50.00 MP
Slow-Motion
Max Standard Slow-Motion
2x (1080p)
2x16x
Max Burst Slow-Motion
None
None32x (1080p)
Stabilization
Stabilization
Standard
NoneHyperSmooth 6.0
Body Specs
Body Size (Volume)
62×44×24 (65cm³)
242 cm³52 cm³
Weight
118g
220g63g
Max SD Storage
128GB
32GB1TB

Comparison of HERO7 Black with Other Models

Comparison of HERO 2018 with Other Models