hero8-black thumbnailvshero-2018 thumbnail

Comparisons: GoPro HERO8 Black and GoPro HERO (2018)

Compare the 2019 GoPro HERO8 Black with the 2018 GoPro HERO (2018) in terms of shooting performance, body specs, and more.

Key Factors

  1. Shooting quality and features

    The HERO8 Black supports 4K video recording, offering superior performance and features. The HERO (2018) is limited to Full HD.

  2. Body features

    The HERO8 Black includes a built-in mount and supports larger microSD card capacities.

  3. Size and weight

    The size difference is negligible. Considering the need for a case, the HERO (2018) is at a disadvantage.

Differences in Shooting Quality and Features

While the HERO8 Black and HERO (2018) are separated by only one generation in terms of release years, their respective positions as a flagship model and an entry-level version highlight significant differences in shooting performance and features.

The HERO8 Black supports 4K video recording with capabilities such as 4K/60fps, 2.7K/120fps, and 1080p/240fps, enabling high-resolution and high-frame-rate recording. On the other hand, the HERO (2018) is limited to 1080p/60fps, marking a substantial gap in video quality.

In terms of stabilization, the HERO8 Black comes equipped with HyperSmooth 2.0, including a Boost mode for enhanced stabilization, adaptable to various scenes and resolutions. The HERO (2018), by contrast, offers only standard stabilization without such advanced features.

Summary of GoPro’s "HyperSmooth" and Its Version Differences thumbnail

Summary of GoPro’s "HyperSmooth" and Its Version Differences

One of the most distinctive and appealing features of GoPro is its image stabilization technology, "HyperSmooth." This article summarizes the different versions of HyperSmooth and the functional differences between each.

Additionally, the HERO8 Black features functions such as loop recording and live streaming, making it versatile for different shooting scenarios.

Body Features

The HERO8 Black also introduces an innovative design with a built-in folding mount, allowing direct attachment to accessories without the need for a separate case. This is a significant improvement over the HERO (2018), where a case is required for accessory mounting.

In terms of memory card support, the HERO8 Black accommodates microSD cards up to 256GB, while the HERO (2018) is limited to 128GB, offering more storage flexibility for higher-quality footage.

Size and Weight Differences Are Negligible

When comparing size and weight, the HERO8 Black is slightly smaller and lighter than the HERO (2018), with an 8g difference in weight. This difference is minimal and barely noticeable in practical use.

Moreover, since the HERO8 Black doesn’t require a case for accessory mounting, it could actually feel lighter in real-world usage compared to the HERO (2018). Given the similarity in size and weight, opting for the model with superior features and performance, like the HERO8 Black, ensures a longer-lasting and more versatile GoPro experience.

Compare by shooting performance

FeaturesHERO8 Black thumbnail
GoPro HERO8 Black
HERO 2018 thumbnail
GoPro HERO 2018
5.6K--
5.3K--
5.2K--
5K--
4K60 fps -
3K--
2.7K120 fps -
1080p240 fps 60 fps
Still Image Resolution12.00 MP10.00 MP

Compare by specifications

FeatureHERO8 Black thumbnail
GoPro HERO8 Black
HERO 2018 thumbnail
GoPro HERO 2018
Release date2019/10/25 2018/04/02
ChipsetGP1
Image Sensor Size1/2.3” 1/2.3”
Aperturef/2.5 f/2.8
StabilizationHyperSmooth 2.0 Standard
10 Bit Colorxx
Loop Recordingx
Live Streamingx
Waterproof10 m10 m
Max Storage Size256 GB128 GB
Body Size66.3 * 48.6 * 28.4 mm62 * 44 * 24 mm
Weight126 g118 g

Comparison of HERO8 Black with Other Models

Comparison of HERO 2018 with Other Models