The GoPro Hero 9 Black, announced and released on the 16th of September 2020, is a mini streaming action camera with unique features.The model is one of the most versatile and successful action cameras for live streaming and recording sharp footage. And it marks GoPro’s transition from traditional wasteful (plastic) packaging to a high-value travel case. Thus, it is a highly sought-after GoPro model.
The H9 features a new sensor that renders 5K videos, 20MP clear still images, a new front-facing display, HyperSmooth 3.0 video stabilization for steady footage anywhere, and Live Streaming plus a Webcam, which makes the camera suitable for vlogging.
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Primary Features Of The Hero 9 Black
An Effective 23.6 Megapixel CMOS Sensor:
The Hero 9’s new 26.3-megapixel image sensor helps to capture and deliver high-quality still photos and videos. It also ensures fast data readout speed and boasts the camera’s general performance.
Creative Power Tools:
The H9 comes with different power tools – a set of distinct smart settings that allow users to capture options beyond simply clicking the shutter button. The set of tools includes HindSight, Liveburst, Scheduled capture, and Duration capture.
The Hindsight power tool, when enabled, allows you to capture approximately 30 seconds of video before you press the shutter button, ensuring you do not miss key moments at special events. While the LiveBurst, when turned on, captures a burst of clear photos 1.5 seconds before and after you click the shutter button.
Next, the Scheduled capture lets you set the Hero 9 Black to automatically switch on itself and click a shot up to 24 hours in advance. This makes the camera an excellent object for time-lapse footage. And finally, the Duration capture power tool helps you to set how long you want the camera to record before it stops.
Creative Video And Photo Presets
Furthermore, the mini-action camera has four presets each for videos and photos.
For video recording, there exists a standard preset that shoots 1080p movies at 60 frames per second for full-frame playback on a phone or smart TV, while an activity preset permits the capturing of ultra-immersive 2.7K video at 60p with the super-view digital lens.
Next, the cinematic preset captures beautiful high-res 4k video at 30 fps, and the Slo-Mo supports Full HD footage at 240p for amazing details.
For still images, the camera features a default photo preset which captures a single picture when the shutter button is pressed alongside a burst preset enabling users to click approximately 25 photographs per second.
The Night preset for photos automatically adjusts the Hero 9 Black shutter speed to let in more for your shots in dim or dark scenes. And finally, the LiveBurst preset is also featured.
HyperSmooth 3.0 With In-camera Horizon Leveling:
The GoPro Hero 9 Black also sports advanced HyperSmooth 3.0 video stabilization and in-camera horizon leveling, which helps to keep the camera steady and smooth as you run or work with it.
Voice Control:
The camera also features voice control with 14 commands in 11 languages + 6 accents, benefiting intuitive control and general ease of operation.
Body Build And Design
Similarly to other GoPro models and mini-action cameras, the Hero 9 Black is lightweight, weighing approximately 5.6 oz / 158g. However, it is rugged and waterproof down to 33ft.
The body design is aesthetically pleasing, and all buttons are easy to reach when using the device. Finally, the camera is compatible with 45+ GoPro mounts and accessories, including mods that add extra layers of protection and multi-production tools.
Display
The H9 features a new 1.4” front color display with live preview and status modes alongside a fixed rear touch-sensitive LCD monitor for easy framing and general operations.
Low Light Performance
The camera features a standard sensitivity of ISO 100 to 6400 for photos and videos, alongside creative presets to benefit working in dark situations. However, practically, the H9 black stills and video deliverables in low light were not quite sharp. Shooting at a higher sensitivity ISO setting introduced a lot of grain.
Primarily, the camera thrives more in well-lit environments. Thus, if you must work at night, ensure the place has sufficient lighting.
Image And Video Qualities
The camera renders sharp high-res 20MP photos and supports cinematic high-resolution 5K30, 4K60, 2.7K120, 1440p120, 1080p240 videos. Practically, the stills and footage deliverables were impressive, thanks to the versatile image and movie presets.
Speed Performance
In burst mode, users can continuously click 30 photos per 3 seconds. It is reasonably fast compared to previous models.
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Battery Performance
The H9 houses a 1720mAh battery that has a 30% longer battery life than the battery of its predecessor, the Hero8 Black.
Pros And Cons
Pros
- Versatile features and presets
- 5K30 resolution video
- Live streaming in 1080p
- Durable and lightweight
- Built-in wifi
Cons
- Poor in low light
- 20MP photos
Is The GoPro Hero9 Black Still Worth It? Value For Money?
The GoPro Hero11 Black is one of the most durable, versatile, and best mini-action cameras you can find on the market. It can still render great results, even in tough situations.
Who Should Buy The GoPro 9?
As the name implies, the GoPro Hero9 Black streaming action camera is suitable for vlogging and can serve as an all-around travel camera. Thus, it is recommended for those who want a durable, waterproof camera for live streaming of action events and more.