GoPro Hero 6 Black vs Hero 7 Black

There are many models of GoPro Hero cameras, with the most common ones being H6 black and H7 black. The following GoPro Hero 6 black vs Hero 7 Black will help you understand the differences between these models, so you can choose one that best suits your needs.

GoPro Hero Black vs Hero 7 Black General Overview

GoPro Hero cameras are popular cameras due to their sturdy and rugged design that allows you to shoot real estate exterior photos even in the most trying conditions. GoPro has a total of 21 models, with each model having its unique features.

However, GoPro H6 and GoPro H7 black are some of the most outstanding models due to their high-quality physical design, weight, compartment doors, and button arrangements.

GoPro H6 Black Overview

GoPro H6 black was released on September 28th, 2017, in San Francisco, California, as an update to GoPro Hero 5. However, all the updates in GoPro HERO 6 Black were internal such as the ability to shoot 1080p videos at 240 frames per second and 4K videos at 60 frames per second. 

It features a newer GP1 processor, which enhances its low-light performance and digital image stabilization. The newer processor also makes it almost twice as fast with better transfer speeds than GoPro H5.

GoPro H7 Black Overview

GoPro Hero7 Black was released on September 27th, 2018, exactly one year after GoPro H6. Unlike GoPro H6, GoPro H7 was released as a lineup of silver, black, and white variants.

The H7 white variant is the entry-level, while the H7 black variant is the flagship model with premium features such as the name emblazoned on its side, cosmetic tweaks on the rubber exterior, and improvements on the rear touch screen user interface. 

Comparing GoPro Hero 6 Black and Hero 7 Black 

Since GoPro H7 is an update of the GoPro H6, the two models share a lot in physical design, user interface, and features. However, they are distinct models, with the GoPro H7 having some extra features and capabilities. 

Similarities

Although the GoPro H7 might be superior, GoPro maintains a consistent design in all their camera models, making these two models have the following similarities. 

• Both cameras feature a rugged and waterproof design, and you can immerse them up to 33 feet underwater. 
• Both cameras use the same image sensor and in-house developed GP1 chip. 
• Both cameras are compatible with all other GoPro Hero lenses. 
• Like other GoPro cameras, you can access the menu in both H6 and H7 through the touchscreen at the back.
• Both cameras use identical 1220mAh lithium-ion batteries with a battery life of around one to two hours when recording videos. However, the GoPro H6 offers a better battery life due to its minimal features. 
• You can control both H6 and H7 wirelessly using the voice control feature or the GoPro mobile app with Bluetooth or Wi-Fi connection. 
• Both H6 and H7 use a similar top shutter button to take a photo and start and stop a video recording. 
• Both models support jpeg and RAW image formats. Usually, images are around 12 MP, with the image measuring 4000 by 3000 pixels.
• It is possible to shoot videos in a looping mode in both models.
• Although it is not advisable to use digital zoom when shooting videos as it affects the image quality, both GoPro H6 and H7 come with a digital zoom. 
• The cameras come with a Protune feature that allows you to control the exposure by adjusting the ISO, white balance, and shutter speed settings. 

Differences 

Even if GoPro H6 and GoPro H7 look the same at a glance, they have the following differences in their build quality, design, and capabilities.

Design and Build 

Although the exterior appearance of the GoPro H6 and GoPro H7 are almost identical, the body of the H6 has a slightly ribbed texture which an H7 doesn’t have. When it comes to colors, the color of the H7 is more of a dark gray shade. 

Also, the H7 has its name and model number emblazoned on its side. The grid shape at the bottom around the microphone area looks different, and the top microphone holes are slightly larger than those of H6. 

Live Streaming 

Live streaming is a technology that allows you to shoot and share videos in real-time through compatible platforms such as Facebook. The H7 comes with a live streaming feature that allows you to record and share the footage live and simultaneously save it on the camera memory card storage. 

However, the H7 live streaming feature only supports two resolutions: 480 pixels and 720 pixels. On the other hand, H6 does not come with a live streaming feature, so you cannot share your videos in real-time.

Touchscreen 

Although both H6 and H7 use identical touch screen systems to access the different camera settings, the icons and usability are slightly different. For instance, you can change the shooting mode using a right or a left swipe in H7 instead of the pop-up menu in H6. 

Additionally, H7 uses a green battery icon to indicate when the battery is fully charged and a red battery icon to indicate the battery is about to die. Unlike the 16:9 aspect mode live view that is flushed to the top in H6, the live view is vertically centered on H7.

Major Distinguishing Factor 

The major distinguishing factor between GoPro H6 and GoPro H7 black is the image stabilization system. Even if both cameras use an in-camera electronic system, GoPro H6 uses the standard stabilization system while GoPro H7 uses the latest and improved HyperSmooth stabilization system.

Typically, the HyperSmooth stabilization system makes it possible to record smooth videos with a GoPro H7, even when bobbing on a surfboard or having a bouncy car ride.

When to Use GoPro Hero 6 Black 

Even if GoPro H7 is a more modern and advanced camera, the features of the H6 make it a better choice to use in the following photographic situations:

• The longer battery life makes it the best choice when you want to shoot videos for an extended time without recharging.
• The larger text in the GoPro H6 menu makes it a better choice to use when you're shooting in trying conditions such as underwater, where it can be challenging to read small text.

When to Use GoPro Hero 7 Black 

Keeping in mind that a GoPro H7 is an upgrade of the GoPro H6, it has some physical design advancements and improved features that make it the best choice to use under the following circumstances:

• When you want to share your video footage in real-time on platforms such as Facebook 
• If you're recording 360 videos handheld 
• When you want to use faster frame rates in a wider range of resolutions, especially when you want a slow motion or time lapse videos.
• When you want to shoot your videos in portrait orientation instead of the usual landscape orientation 
• If you want to record short clips of around 15 to 30 seconds so you can easily share them to other platforms using the GoPro app 

Which Camera Is Better?

GoPro H7 is better as you can shoot your videos and share them in real-time. The advanced image stabilization system also makes it a better choice as you can shoot smooth and stable video handheld. However, GoPro H6 might be the best option if battery life is your main concern.

Verdict

GoPro H6 black and H7 black are high-quality, sturdy, durable cameras with almost identical physical design features and functionalities. This GoPro Hero 6 black vs Hero 7 black comparison reveals their similarities and differences, helping you determine which model suits your needs best.