The GoPro Hero 9 should produce better videos thanks to 5K recording and horizon compensation. Video bloggers keep an eye on themselves with the front display.

(Image: MedienBureau Sauer)

Actioncam GoPro Hero 9 Black with horizon compensation and 5K recording in the test Picture modes Colorful world Conclusion Test table Article in c’t 23 / 2020 read The new display on the front of the GoPro Hero 9 Black is square and distorted or snowed det the picture. If you want to avoid that, put it on 16: 9 and gets a picture with a 2.9 centimeter diagonal – enough to properly close the camera on the selfie stick position. The action cam is operated via the rear, now half a centimeter larger touchscreen or navigates – if necessary from the front – with the two buttons next to it through the menu. It is even better to use the app, which controls all functions including switching on and off. Voice control can also be helpful in tricky situations, whereby the camera understands English better than German.

The Hero 9 is not the first action cam with 5K resolution – Insta 360 was faster with the One R and the Leica module with 1-inch sensor . However, the Hero 9 is cheaper, and in terms of image stabilization, GoPro’s HyperSmooth stabilization has always been better. What is new is the so-called horizon leveling, which should always keep the picture in a straight line. That works fascinatingly well, but it costs a bit of viewing angle – whereby the Hero 9 with 119 degree provides plenty of wide angle. For 100 Euro GoPro supplies an attachment lens with 132 degree, which, however, only supports HyperSmooth up to 2.7K.

The automatic alignment of the horizon is great for selfie shots – rather counterproductive for action, because it takes a lot of the dynamics. In addition, the image stabilization causes blurring in the edge area, for example when driving over a gravel road. In such situations it is better to switch off the HyperSmooth and the horizon leveling.

Access to all contents of heise + exclusive tests, advice & background: independent, critically sound c’t, iX, Technology Review, Mac & i, Make, c’t Read photography directly in the browser register once – on all devices read – can be canceled monthly first month free, then monthly 9 , 95 € Weekly newsletter with personal reading recommendations from the editor-in-chief Start FREE month Start your FREE month now Already subscribed to heise +?

Sign in and read Register now and read the article immediately More information about heise + Actioncam GoPro Hero 9 Black with horizon compensation and 5K recording in the test Picture modes Colorful world Conclusion Test table Article in c’t 23 / 2020 read