GoPro Hero 7

For amateur videographers capturing their outdoor adventures or travels, GoPro has been a household name for years, but how does its latest gadget stand up?

The GoPro Hero 7 starts at $400 and provides solutions to some of the top issues amateur videographers had in the past.

The primary features are its 4K video capability, stabilization and live-streaming. Compared to the Hero 6 Black, the Hero 7 Black improves the overall user experience and end results. HyperSmooth video stabilization is similar to what you’d get when using a gimbal to shoot video for a much more affordable cost. It’s easy to see why this is a must for anyone creating video for consumption, as there’s hardly any shot it won’t stabilize with ease and GoPro claims this comes at no extra battery cost.

Beyond HyperSmooth, another new feature is TimeWarp, which combines the HyperSmooth feature with time-lapse shooting. Typically, time lapses require a tripod, but the GoPro Hero 7 makes this a non-necessity, further cutting down the heavy equipment you’re required to drag around.

The live-streaming feature only worked with Facebook when first released, but capabilities are now expanded to YouTube.

Additionally, this iteration of the GoPro is hardy and up to the task in a range of situations, and the build is similar to what you’ve seen in the past. It’s waterproof down to 33 feet. The UI and touchscreen are also a bit upgraded, but in no major way.

The main concern most users have is this GoPro doesn’t have a better battery life than older versions, at a few hours max.