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Verdict
GoPro really had to step up its game if it wanted to remain at the top of the action cam pile, and the Hero5 Black is a great reminder of why the name is so revered.
The camera is simple to use, yet remains a very powerful tool, while the addition of a rear touchscreen, voice control and GPS make it one of the most feature-packed cams currently available.
Video footage is now smoother than ever, while the ability to shoot stills in raw, and the Wide Dynamic Range feature, make the Hero5 Black more versatile than ever.
In addition, the overhaul of GoPro's post-production apps has made it much simpler to do something interesting with the resulting footage – an issue that bothered many action cam owners in the past.
Yes, the touchscreen can be a bit fiddly (especially in the wet), the battery life needs improving, and the lack of plastic casing leaves the Hero5 Black a little exposed to the elements; but all in all this is a brilliant addition to any videographer’s kitbag.
Competition
Olfi one.five
There's not much an Olfi one.five owner is left wanting, despite the unit costing half the price of GoPro's Hero5 Black. If you don't mind foregoing features like GPS, voice activation and the ability to link external sensors, such as Garmin's numerous cycling products, and simply want to capture good-looking footage without breaking the bank, there's very little to complain about here.
Read the full review: Olfi one.five
GoPro Hero5 Session
The Hero5 Session follows on from the Hero4 Session, stripping back the action camera concept to its basics, but sharing many of the same specs as the Hero5 Black. That includes 4K video capture up to 30fps, image stabilisation, voice control and is waterproof down to 10m/33ft. Back to basics, but still captures the quality of video that you'd expect from GoPro.
Read the full review: GoPro Hero5 Session
