Comparisons: GoPro HERO8 Black vs GoPro HERO6 Black

This article compares the 2019 GoPro HERO8 Black with the 2017 GoPro HERO6 Black in terms of shooting performance, body specifications, and more.

hero8-black thumbnailHERO8 Black
VS
hero6-black thumbnailHERO6 Black
GoProDB's Choice
GoPro HERO8 Black thumbnail

HERO8 Black

  • There is not much difference in shooting features and functions.
  • The image stabilization and built-in body mount are significant.
  • If price is a concern, the HERO6 Black is also an option.

Key Factors

1

Body specifications are almost the same

The HERO8 Black and HERO6 Black have very similar shooting specs and internal components.

2

Mounting method differences

The HERO8 Black has a redesigned body that allows for direct mounting without additional accessories.

3

Stabilization differences

Both models have stabilization, but the HERO8 Black features HyperSmooth 2.0, which is an upgrade.

Similarities in Core Specifications

The HERO8 Black and HERO6 Black are nearly identical in terms of internal specs. They share the same video resolution and frame rate capabilities, and both are powered by the same chipset. The only difference in terms of hardware is the lens diameter.

The main differences between the two models lie in the "changes in body design" and "differences in stabilization," which are discussed below.

Differences in Mounting Methods

The HERO8 Black is the first GoPro model to feature an integrated mounting system on the camera body. Previous models required a case to attach the camera to GoPro mount accessories, but the HERO8 Black is equipped with foldable mounting fingers at the bottom of the camera. This allows the HERO8 Black to be mounted to accessories without needing a separate case. The HERO8 Black is also waterproof up to 10 meters without a case, making this a significant usability improvement.

The HERO6 Black, on the other hand, follows the traditional design without a built-in mounting system, so a case is required to mount it to accessories.

Differences in Stabilization

GoPro introduced its proprietary stabilization feature, "HyperSmooth," with the HERO7 series. The HERO8 Black features the next iteration, "HyperSmooth 2.0." With the HERO8, HyperSmooth became available at all frame rates, offering more powerful stabilization than previous models. It also introduced the "Boost Mode," which provides enhanced stabilization, making HyperSmooth 2.0 a fully functional stabilization system used in later models.

The HERO6 Black includes standard stabilization but does not have HyperSmooth. While adequate for general use, its stabilization capabilities are inferior to those of HyperSmooth 2.0.

EVOLUTION DATASHEET

Spec Position of HERO8 Black & HERO6 Black in GoPro History

Positioning matrix showing how HERO8 Black and HERO6 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
HERO6 Black
HERO6 Black
Release Year
2017(-9 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
Standard
NoneHyperSmooth 6.0
Body Specs
Body Size (Volume)
62.3×44.9×33 (92cm³)
242 cm³52 cm³
Weight
118g
220g63g
Max SD Storage
128GB
32GB1TB

Comparison of HERO8 Black with Other Models

Comparison of HERO6 Black with Other Models