hero9-black thumbnailvshero-2018 thumbnail

Comparisons: GoPro HERO9 Black and GoPro HERO (2018)

Compare the 2020 GoPro HERO9 Black with the 2018 GoPro HERO (2018) in terms of shooting performance, body specs, and more.

Key Factors

  1. Shooting quality and features

    The HERO9 Black supports 5K video recording, offering significantly better performance and features. The HERO (2018) is limited to Full HD.

  2. Body features

    The HERO9 Black includes a front color display and a built-in mount.

  3. Size and weight

    The HERO (2018) is smaller and lighter.

Differences in Shooting Quality and Features

When comparing HERO9 Black and HERO (2018) in terms of shooting quality, the HERO9 Black is significantly superior. It supports 5K video recording, with options like 4K/60fps, 2.7K/120fps, and 1080p/240fps, allowing for high-resolution and high-speed recording. On the other hand, the HERO (2018) is limited to Full HD (1080p), showing a significant generational gap between the two models.

In terms of shooting features, the HERO9 Black outshines the HERO (2018). It includes HyperSmooth 3.0 stabilization, along with Boost mode and horizon leveling, enhancing video stability in various conditions. Additional features like loop recording and live streaming make the HERO9 Black versatile for different uses.

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.

The HERO (2018), while equipped with basic stabilization, lacks support for loop recording and live streaming. For users prioritizing shooting performance, the HERO9 Black is the recommended choice due to its advanced capabilities.

Body Features

In terms of body features, the HERO9 Black is the first GoPro HERO model to include a color front display, improving usability by allowing previews without needing to rely solely on the rear display. The HERO (2018), as an older model, has a monochrome front display.

Additionally, the HERO9 Black features a built-in foldable mount, enabling direct attachment to various accessories without additional cases. In contrast, the HERO (2018) lacks this built-in mount, requiring a separate case for accessory attachment, which can increase weight during actual use.

Size and Weight: HERO (2018) Is Smaller and Lighter

In terms of size and weight, the HERO (2018) is smaller and lighter than the HERO9 Black. However, since the HERO9 Black doesn’t require a case for mounting accessories, the actual difference in size and weight during usage might be negligible.

Given this, if the size and weight differences are minimal in practice, the HERO9 Black is the better choice when considering its superior performance and features.

Compare by shooting performance

FeaturesHERO9 Black thumbnail
GoPro HERO9 Black
HERO 2018 thumbnail
GoPro HERO 2018
5.6K--
5.3K--
5.2K--
5K30 fps -
4K60 fps -
3K--
2.7K120 fps -
1080p240 fps 60 fps
Still Image Resolution20.00 MP10.00 MP

Compare by specifications

FeatureHERO9 Black thumbnail
GoPro HERO9 Black
HERO 2018 thumbnail
GoPro HERO 2018
Release date2020/09/17 2018/04/02
ChipsetGP1
Image Sensor Size1/2.3” 1/2.3”
Aperturef/2.5 f/2.8
StabilizationHyperSmooth 3.0 Standard
10 Bit Colorxx
Loop Recordingx
Live Streamingx
Waterproof10 m10 m
Max Storage Size256 GB128 GB
Body Size71.8 * 50.8 * 33.6 mm62 * 44 * 24 mm
Weight158 g118 g

Comparison of HERO9 Black with Other Models

Comparison of HERO 2018 with Other Models