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GoPro HERO6 Black Video Modes

The GoPro HERO6 Black has headline features of 4K60 and 1080p240 video, but those aren't the only changes in the video modes. While there's a lot of overlap with the HERO5 Black, there are also some new options and some that have gone away.

By David Coleman | @havecamerawilltraveldc
Last updated about 3 months ago // Categories: Video
Tags: GoPro HERO6 Black

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Get ready for summer fun with GoPro's deal on the HERO9 Black. The HERO9 is their newest and best camera. It's a bundle that includes the HERO9 Black, a 1-year subscription to GoPro, a free extra battery (these come in very handy), a floating hand grip, Magnetic Swivel Clip, and a free 632GB SD card. It's all for $399.98

The GoPro HERO6 Black has new headline features of 4K60 and 1080p240 video modes. But those aren’t the only changes.

There’s a lot of overlap with the HERO5 Black’s video modes, but there are also differences. There are some faster framerates in the high-end video modes, bigger bitrates, a digital zoom, new Protune options, and an even larger 4K 4:3 size.

Some other video modes have gone. The lowest video mode is now 720p60, and the narrow and medium fields of view have been removed, for example.

This comparison is focusing specifically on the video modes. I also have a more general overview of how the HERO6 Black compares to the HERO5 Black.

Video Sizes on the GoPro HERO6 Black

In addition to the faster framerates at 4K and 1080p, the HERO6 Black adds a larger 4K format: 4K 4:3 that is at 4000 x 3000 (regular 4K is 3840 x 2160 in 16:9 aspect ratio). That primarily adds some extra vertical space that can give more flexibility when editing so that the action is a little less prone to being cut off the top or the bottom.

Some of the smaller sizes have also been dropped. The lowest video mode is now 720p, and there’s no 480p or 960p sizes.

Here are the relative video sizes compared. If you’d like to see it life-size, click on it to open a 1:1 full-size illustration:

GoPro HERO6 Black Video Modes

Video Stabilization in the GoPro HERO6 Black

From side-by-side testing I’ve found the HERO6 Black’s in-camera stabilization to be an improvement over stabilization on the HERO5 Black. I’m putting together some side-by-side examples that I’ve shot and will post them soon.

The in-camera video stabilization feature still a software implementation, and its results aren’t perfect all the time. But if you don’t have an external stabilizer handy and don’t feel like messing with it in post, the in-camera stabilization is a very useful way to get much smoother video footage right out of the camera.

Video Bitrates on the HERO6 Black

GoPro has bumped up the bitrates quite a bit in the HERO6 Black. The high-end video modes, with Protune turned on, run at around 78 Mb/s (megabits per second), a significant step up from the upper limit of 60 megabits per second on the HERO5 Black. (Because of the way variable bitrate encoding works, it can fluctuate a little from clip to clip, so it doesn’t always hit the target rate precisely.)

Higher bitrates, of course, also mean that you’ll need a microSD card that’s fast enough for the HERO6 Black to cope with the stream of data coming at it.

Protune Options

The Protune options in video mode are quite similar to those on the HERO5 Black, but there are some new options such as a broader range of ISO options and more manual white balance options.

Protune OptionHERO9 BlackHERO8 BlackHERO7 BlackHERO6 BlackHERO5 Black
BitrateStandard
High
Standard
High
---
ColorGoPro Color
Flat
GoPro Color
Flat
GoPro Color
Flat
GoPro Color
Flat
GoPro Color
Flat
White BalanceAuto
2300K
2800K
3200K
4000K
4500K
5500K
6000K
6500K
Native
Auto
2300K
2800K
3200K
4000K
4500K
5500K
6000K
6500K
Native
Auto
2300K
2800K
3200K
4000K
4500K
5500K
6000K
6500K
Native
Auto
2300K
2800K
3200K
4000K
4500K
5500K
6000K
6500K
Native
Auto
3000K
4000K
4800K
5500K
6000K
6500K
Native
Manual Exposure / Shutter*Auto
1/24
1/30
1/48
1/50
1/60
1/96
1/100
1/120
1/192
1/200
1/240
1/384
1/400
1/480
1/800
1/960
1/1600
1/1920
1/3200
1/3840
Auto
1/24
1/30
1/48
1/50
1/60
1/96
1/100
1/120
1/192
1/200
1/240
1/384
1/400
1/480
1/800
1/960
1/1600
1/1920
1/3200
1/3840
Auto
1/24
1/25
1/30
1/48
1/50
1/60
1/96
1/100
1/120
1/192
1/200
1/240
1/384
1/400
1/480
1/960
1/1920
1/3840
Auto
1/24
1/25
1/30
1/48
1/50
1/60
1/96
1/100
1/120
1/192
1/200
1/240
1/400
1/480
1/960
1/1920
Auto
1/24
1/25
1/30
1/48
1/50
1/60
1/80
1/96
1/100
1/120
1/160
1/192
1/200
1/240
1/320
1/400
1/480
1/960
ISO Limit6400
3200
1600
800
400
200
100
6400
3200
1600
800
400
200
100
6400
3200
1600
800
400
200
100
6400
3200
1600
800
400
200
100
6400
3200
1600
1200
800
400
SharpnessHigh
Medium
Low
High
Medium
Low
High
Medium
Low
High
Medium
Low
High
Medium
Low
Exposure Compensation-2 to +2-2 to +2-2 to +2-2 to +2-2 to +2
Raw Audio TrackOff
Low
Mid
High
Off
Low
Mid
High
Off
Low
Mid
High
Off
Low
Mid
High
Off
Low
Mid
High
WindAuto
On
Off
Auto
On
Off
Auto Audio Mode GroupAuto
On
Off
Auto
On
Off
Auto
Wind Only
Stereo Only
--
* Note on manual shutter: The specific options available in the manual exposure / shutter section vary by the framerate you've chosen. The available shutter speeds you'll see available will be limited to multiples of the framerate you're using. As an example, if you set it to record at 1080p60, you won't see the option for a manual shutter speed of 1/96 but you will see 1/120 and 1/240. In general, the scale goes 1/fps, 1/(2xfps), 1/(4xfps), 1(8xfps), and 1(16xfps).

I have a more detailed breakdown and explanation of the HERO6 Black’s Protune options here.

Aspect Ratios

There are two aspect ratios used on the HERO6 Black: 16:9 and 4:3. Which aspect ratio is applied depends on the shooting mode you choose.

You can see which aspect ratio is used with each video mode in the table below.

Fields of View

There are three different fields of view (FOV) in use in the video mode of the HERO6 Black.

The default Wide perspective is the one we’re all used to. It’s available in all of the video modes.

GoPro HERO6 Black Video Modes

GoPro HERO6 Black Video FOV: Wide

The Superview FOV is an even wider and more distorted perspective. It’s only available in some shooting modes (see the table below for the specific ones).

GoPro HERO6 Black Video Modes

GoPro HERO6 Black Video FOV: Superview

The Linear FOV was first introduced with the HERO5 models. It uses software algorithms to try to correct the fisheye distortion that results in bent horizons and lines that should be straight and that bulging look. Linear FOV is especially useful when filming from drones, but it can also be useful if you’re looking for a more normal, less-distorted perspective. It’s only available in some video modes.

GoPro HERO6 Black Video Modes

GoPro HERO6 Black Video FOV: Linear

The New Digital Zoom Feature

As when shooting still photos, there’s a new zoom option. It’s a digital zoom, not an optical one, so when you zoom in you’re not getting any new detail. While I’m skeptical about how useful the zoom feature is in the photo modes, it makes more sense in the video mode because it keeps the overall video resolution consistent.

It works similarly to the zoom in smartphone cameras (without using gestures). The zoom is controlled by an on-screen slider. It’s simple and intuitive, but it isn’t particularly well-suited to smooth zoom shots while filming.

Here are some frames that give an example of it zoomed right in:

[caption id="attachment_20567" align="aligncenter" width="678"]GoPro HERO6 Black Video Modes GoPro HERO6 Black Video FOV: Wide[/caption]

GoPro HERO6 Black Video Modes

Video Codecs Used by the GoPro HERO6 Black

The HERO6 Black saves all of its video files in MP4 containers (in addition to the sidecar LRV and THM files). But it uses a couple of different video codecs depending on the shooting mode. They’re encoded at variable bitrates.

For its highest-end video modes, like 4K60 and 1080p240, it uses the new and improved H.265 (HEVC) codec rather than the older H.264 (AVC) one. For the rest of its video modes, it uses H.264 (AVC).

You can see which codec is used in which mode in the table below.

Details of GoPro HERO6 Black Video Modes

ModeFPSBITRATE (MEGABITS/S)
- PROTUNE / + PROTUNE
Stabilization?CodecAspect RatioDimensionsFOV WideFOV SuperViewFOV Linear
4K6066 / 78✘H.26516:93840x2160✓
5066 / 78✘H.26516:93840x2160✓
3066 / 66✓AVC16:93840x2160✓✓
2566 / 66✓AVC16:93840x2160✓✓
2466 / 66✓AVC16:93840x2160✓✓
4K 4:33066 / 78✘H.2654:34000x3000✓
2566 / 78✘H.2654:34000x3000✓
2466 / 78✘H.2654:34000x3000✓
2.7K12066 / 78✘H.26516:92704x1520✓
10066 / 78✘H.26516:92704x1520✓
6066 / 66✓AVC16:92704x1520✓✓✓
5066 / 66✓AVC16:92704x1520✓✓✓
3033 / 47✓AVC16:92704x1520✓✓✓
2533 / 47✓AVC16:92704x1520✓✓✓
2433 / 47✓AVC16:92704x1520✓✓✓
2.7K 4:36066 / 78✘H.2654:32704x2028✓
5066 / 78✘H.2654:32704x2028✓✓
3066 / 66✓AVC4:32704x2028✓✓
2566 / 66✓AVC4:32704x2028✓✓
2466 / 66✓AVC4:32704x2028✓✓
14406066 / 66✓AVC4:31920x1440✓✓
5066 / 66✓AVC4:31920x1440✓✓
3033 / 47✓AVC4:31920x1440✓✓
2533 / 47✓AVC4:31920x1440✓✓
2433 / 47✓AVC4:31920x1440✓✓
108024066 / 78✘H.26516:91920x1080✓
20066 / 78✘H.26516:91920x1080✓
12066 / 66✓AVC16:91920x1080✓✓✓
10066 / 66✓AVC16:91920x1080✓✓✓
6033 / 47✓AVC16:91920x1080✓✓✓
5033 / 47✓AVC16:91920x1080✓✓✓
3033 / 47✓AVC16:91920x1080✓✓✓
2533 / 47✓AVC16:91920x1080✓✓✓
2433 / 47✓AVC16:91920x1080✓✓✓
7206033 / 47✓AVC16:91280x720✓✓
5033 / 47✓AVC16:91280x720✓✓

Q&A About GoPro HERO6 Black Video Modes

What does 4K60 mean?

4K60 refers to ultra-high definition video recorded at 60 frames per second. There are actually two sizes that 4K can be referring to. The one that GoPros use (along with most other consumer devices) has a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels, which is equivalent to 8.3 megapixels. It is often referred to as UHD or ultra-high definition and less commonly as 2160p. Standard 4K has an aspect ratio of 16:9; the HERO6 Black also includes a 4K mode in the 4:3 aspect ratio.

I can’t edit the HEVC video files.

One issue you might run into with HEVC files is that while compatibility is improving, they’re still not compatible with all operating systems and apps. In that case, I’ve outlined a workaround for converting HEVC files.

More GoPro Tips & Tricks:

  • GoPro HERO5 Black vs HERO5 Session
    Video Modes Available on the GoPro HERO5 Session
  • GoPro HERO6 Black vs HERO5 Black
    GoPro HERO6 Black vs HERO5 Black
  • What is GoPro SuperView?
    What is GoPro SuperView?
  • FOV Options Available on the GoPro HERO6 Black
    FOV Options Available on the GoPro HERO6 Black
  • GoPro HERO5 Black Video Sizes, Framerates, Modes, and Options
    GoPro HERO5 Black Video Sizes, Framerates, Modes, and Options
  • How Well Does the GoPro HERO6 Black's Stabilization Work?
    How Well Does the GoPro HERO6 Black's Stabilization Work?
  • Video Modes of the GoPro HERO7 Black
    Video Modes of the GoPro HERO7 Black
  • GoPro HERO6 Black vs HERO5 Black
    GoPro HERO6 Black vs HERO5 Black: Photo Modes
  • Why Is the Video Being Cropped When Using GoPro's Video Stabilization?
    Why Is the Video Being Cropped When Using GoPro's Video Stabilization?
By David Coleman
Instagram: @havecamerawilltraveldc

Last updated on January 15, 2021

Categories: Video
Tags: GoPro HERO6 Black

I may earn a commission for purchases using links on this page. Learn more.

GoPro News & Deals

New Smart Remote GoPro will be announcing the new Smart Remote for the HERO9 Black on December 17, 2020. The HERO9 Black isn’t compatible with the previous version of the Smart Remote.

HERO8 Black firmware v2.0 now available. Enables webcam mode; enables Display Mod compatibility; expands HyperSmooth 2.0 High and Boost availability to more video settings; general bug fixes. Update through the mobile app or manually.

GoPro Launches New Live Streaming Service for GoPro PLUS. GoPro has launched their own live-streaming platform for PLUS subscribers. It’s a pretty bare-bones offering for now, with livestreams shared with a dedicated URL. This is alongside their efforts to make the HERO8 Black useful as a webcam when connected to a computer (via USB plug-in-play, not requiring the Media Mod accessory with HDMI out). New firmware adds that functionality for Mac users, and the Windows version is in Beta.

New GoPro Zeus Mini Video Light. GoPro has released released a new video LED light designed to complement their GoPro cameras. It’s tiny, waterproof, and has a built-in magnetic swiveling clip. It’s waterproof down to 33 feet (10 meters), has four levels of brightness, and includes a diffuser to cool the color temperature to 5000K. GoPro claims that the built-in battery lasts up to 6 hours (presumably at the lowest brightness setting, although they don’t specify). It’s available now and priced at $69.99.

DJI Osmo Action firmware update adds live streaming. DJI has released a firmware update for the Osmo Action (v. 01.08.00.10) that adds live streaming support, so you can upload directly to platforms like Facebook and YouTube (it goes through the DJI Mimo mobile app). They’ve also improved the in-camera video stabilization. You can find the new firmware here.

New Underwater Housing for GoPro HERO8 Black from Isotta. Isotta, an Italian brand specializing in underwater housings, has announced a new high-quality underwater housing for the HERO8 Black. It’s an aluminum housing depth-rated to 650 feet (200 meters), has a one-handed open/close switch, double o-rings, and can be used with filters. There’s also a dual-handled tray to go along with it. And like all their housings, it’s in their distinctive red. Priced at $450, it’s only for those who need a highly specialized piece of underwater kit. It’s available for preorder from underwater specialists Backscatter.

Light Mod Now Shipping The Light Mod, one of the three new GoPro accessories, is now shipping. It’s a standalone light that is waterproof, rechargeable and compatible with all GoPro mounts. It was originally announced along with the HERO8 Black, but it hasn’t been available until now. It’s priced at $49.99, and you can find them at GoPro.com.

GoPro MAX Now Shipping. The new 360° camera, the MAX, is now shipping.

GoPro HERO8 Black and Max Unveiled. The new GoPro cameras and accessories have been unveiled. I have a rundown of the highlights of the HERO8 Black here.

DJI Osmo Action vs GoPro HERO7 Black. I’ve posted my detailed hands-on comparison of the Osmo Action and the HERO7 Black. There’s a lot similar between the models, but once you start digging down into the details there are differences that can help in choosing between them. And each has strengths the other doesn’t have. You can find my review here.

GoPro HyperSmooth vs DJI RockSteady. The new DJI Osmo Action also has built-in electronic stabilization to smooth out video. They’re calling it RockSteady (GoPro has HyperSmooth). I’ve been out testing them side-by-side. You can see the results here.

GoPro Deals page. I’ve put together a dedicated page on GoPro deals. So if you’re looking for cheap GoPro deals, check it out.

DJI Osmo action 4K Camera. Best known for their camera drones, DJI has released a new 4K action cam that’s taking direct aim at the GoPro HERO7 Black. It shoots up to 4K60 video and 12MP stills, includes electronic stabilization, has high-dynamic range video at 4K30, voice commands, a touchscreen on the back and another smaller live view screen on the front, and is waterproof down to 36 feet (11 meters). It’s priced at $349, and they’re now available at B&H Photo.

Comments

  1. Igor Bruno says

    January 7, 2018 at 11:57 pm

    Hello David. Thanks for the great information on this post. For me, it was really clarifying to read. But after all my research, I still have a doubt and I appreciate if you can help me with it.

    If the maximum bitrate GoPro have is 80 Mbps and 8 bit = 1 byte, why a class 10 or UHS-I sd card isn’t good enough for shooting 4k videos with the camera since they both have 10 MB/s minimum write speed guaranteed?

    Thank you for your attention!

    Reply
    • David says

      January 9, 2018 at 9:35 am

      Mathematically, it makes sense. But in practice there are a number of areas that can prevent the data flow from reaching its mathematical potential, and cutting it too fine invites the risk of problems.

      Reply
  2. Doug says

    December 28, 2017 at 5:59 pm

    Am I reading the table correctly that the “X” means not available and the “checkmark” means it is available? For example, stabilization is not available in 4K mode, 60 fps?

    Reply
    • David says

      December 29, 2017 at 8:59 am

      Correct.

      Reply
  3. Sridhar Likki says

    December 14, 2017 at 7:21 am

    Very neat explanation about GoPro Hero 6 and its modes. I’m planning to buy Hero 6 by this year end.
    I would like to know more about Karma Grip. Is it required if I buy Hero 6? Please send any such good links about Hero 6.

    Reply
    • David says

      December 14, 2017 at 9:29 am

      No, the Karma Grip isn’t required. It’s an optional accessory that provides better stabilization than the in-camera electronic stabilization.

      Reply
    • Alex says

      January 21, 2018 at 3:10 pm

      I personally think, the Karma grip mechanical (in a matter of a very end method of delivery stabilization to the picture) might be a great accessory for Hero 6 when in-build EIS (even so greatly advanced in Hero 6 apparently comparing with all the rest \ older action cam’s EIS) still shows some issues in the picture in particular cases (also – absence of extreme environment to be considered):
      1) Using Karma grip can finally eliminate that parasitic effect of “great Hero 6 EIS”, used to seen as a picture gliding;
      2) Karma grip can be used with EIS-OFF during the night captures, where HB6 EIS makes horrible lights shaking effect

      One point is Karma Grip caused pretty much money.. You need to make sure you are planning to use HB6 in extended manner of Video capturing tool, not just Action only.
      For this point, it is quite reasonable to think about the whole kit (Karma drone + Grip + Gopro HB6 + spares + case) for finance matters rather than all independently

      Reply

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About Me

I’m a professional travel & location photographer based in Washington DC and traveling all over. Seven continents. Dozens of countries. Up mountains. Under water. And a bunch of places in between.

I’ve owned and used every GoPro since the HD HERO and particularly like finding new and different ways to use them to capture photos, video, and time-lapse.

You can find my main site at havecamerawilltravel.com.

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