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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.

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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.

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Comparisons: GoPro HERO7 Black and GoPro HERO (2018)

Key Factors

Shooting Performance and Features
The shooting performance of the HERO7 Black is significantly superior.
Body Features
Similar, but there is a difference in supported microSD card capacity.
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.

HyperSmooth Versions and Feature Comparison Guide

Compare GoPro HyperSmooth versions from 1.0 to 6.0. See which HERO models support Auto Boost and learn our strategy on when to upgrade or wait.

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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.

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Compare by shooting performance

Features	GoPro HERO7 Black	GoPro HERO 2018
5.6K	-	-
5.3K	-	-
5.2K	-	-
5K	-	-
4K	60 fps	-
3K	-	-
2.7K	120 fps	-
1080p	240 fps	60 fps
Still Image Resolution	12.00 MP	10.00 MP

Compare by specifications

Feature	GoPro HERO7 Black	GoPro HERO 2018
Release date	2018/09/27	2018/04/02
Chipset	GP1
Image Sensor Size	1/2.3”	1/2.3”
Aperture	f/2.8	f/2.8
Stabilization	HyperSmooth	Standard
10 Bit Color	x	x
Loop Recording	✔	x
Live Streaming	✔	x
Waterproof	10 m	10 m
Max Storage Size	256GB	128GB
Body Size	62.3 * 44.9 * 33 mm	62 * 44 * 24 mm
Weight	116 g	118 g