Comparisons: GoPro HERO8 Black vs GoPro HERO5 Black

This article compares the 2019 GoPro HERO8 Black with the 2016 GoPro HERO5 Black in terms of shooting performance, body specifications, and more.

hero8-black thumbnailHERO8 Black
VS
hero5-black thumbnailHERO5 Black
GoProDB's Choice
GoPro HERO8 Black thumbnail

HERO8 Black

  • Shooting performance is similar, but image stabilization is significantly better on the HERO8 Black.
  • The difference in whether the body has a built-in folding mount is also considerable.
  • The HERO8 Black still offers surprisingly capable specs even today.

Key Factors

1

Shooting performance and features

The HERO8 Black has higher frame rate support and better stabilization performance.

2

Body features

The HERO8 Black features a built-in folding mount.

3

Size and weight

There is little difference in size and weight.

Similar Specifications but Differences in Supported Frame Rates

When comparing camera performance, both the HERO8 Black and HERO5 Black offer the same resolution, but they differ significantly in supported frame rates.

  • HERO8 Black:
    • 4K/60fps
    • 2.7K/120fps
    • 1080p/240fps
  • HERO5 Black:
    • 4K/30fps
    • 2.7K/60fps
    • 1080p/120fps

Higher frame rates provide smoother footage for action-packed scenes, giving the HERO8 Black a clear advantage in terms of video performance.

Additionally, the image stabilization capabilities differ. The HERO8 Black features HyperSmooth 2.0, which, while not as advanced as current-generation models, offers boosted stabilization performance. On the other hand, the HERO5 Black comes with standard stabilization, which lacks the enhanced functionality of HyperSmooth.

The HERO8 Black also includes live streaming and TimeWarp (hyperlapse) features, adding to its superior functionality.

A Significant Difference in Mounting Design

The HERO8 Black was the first in the GoPro lineup to feature a built-in mounting mechanism. Its foldable mounting fingers at the base eliminate the need for an external case when attaching accessories, offering a seamless user experience.

In contrast, the HERO5 Black has a traditional design that lacks a built-in mount. Accessories require an external case for mounting, which adds to the weight and size during actual use compared to the HERO8 Black.

Size and Weight Differences Are Minimal

In terms of size and weight, the HERO5 Black is slightly larger and about 10 grams lighter. However, since the HERO8 Black’s built-in mount negates the need for an external case, the difference in practical usage is negligible.

EVOLUTION DATASHEET

Spec Position of HERO8 Black & HERO5 Black in GoPro History

Positioning matrix showing how HERO8 Black and HERO5 Black compare across the entire GoPro evolution history.

HERO8 Black
HERO8 Black
Release Year
2019(-7 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 2.0
NoneHyperSmooth 6.0
Body Specs
Body Size (Volume)
66.3×48.6×28.4 (92cm³)
242 cm³52 cm³
Weight
126g
220g63g
Max SD Storage
256GB
32GB1TB
HERO5 Black
HERO5 Black
Release Year
2016(-10 yrs)
20122026
Shooting Performance
Max Video Resolution
4K @30fps
720p8K
Photo Resolution
12.00 MP
5.00 MP50.00 MP
Slow-Motion
Max Standard Slow-Motion
4x (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 HERO8 Black with Other Models

Comparison of HERO5 Black with Other Models