One of the headline features of GoPro's new HERO6 Black is improved in-camera stabilization. The HERO5 Models were the first to include this feature, and they did a reasonably good job. GoPro says that the HERO6's is even better.
So I've been putting to the test under various shooting conditions. I've been shooting with a HERO6 Black side-by-side with a HERO5 Black, both with identical settings. They're mounted in a dual frame mount on the same stem, so they're being subjected to the same movement.
The HERO6 Black's stabilization is a software approach that works similarly to the stabilization options in editing apps like Final Cut Pro X or Adobe Premiere Pro CC. Under many conditions, a mechanical stabilization option that holds the camera still while filming--like a GoPro Karma grip or other gimbal or gyro--will give best results. But the in-camera stabilization does have some important things going for it: it's included, so there's no need to mess with other accessories; there's no problem using it in wet conditions; and there's none of the learning curve required when using things like Steadicams.
So here are some side-by-side examples of the HERO5 Black's stabilization compared to the HERO6 Black's shot under a variety of conditions.
HERO5 Black vs HERO6 Black Stabilization Test: Low Light at 2.7K24
This one was shot from the hood of a car at 2.7K24 in the early morning hours before sunrise. The stabilization algorithm doesn't seem to have much trouble even with the different reference points from the dark scene.
Walking at 2.7K60
This is one of the more dramatic examples of the difference. In this one, the HERO6 Black's stabilization wins hands down.
1080p60 in Bright Sunlight
This is another one from the hood of a car, this time in bright sunlight and at 1080p60.
The car's own suspension and bulk does a reasonable job of smoothing things out even without applying stabilization, but you can still see differences in how well the stabilization works in each camera.
1080p60 Bike
This one has a much more constant vibration. As you can see, both struggle with this, and there's still quite a lot of shakiness and blurring in the footage. But you can also see differences in how the cameras' stabilization is coping with it.
2.7K60 Slide
This is a very short clip, but for a fun I thought I'd try it down a large slide. It's hand-held and, as you can see, it moves around a lot. But it's an interesting test case. There's only so much that the stabilization can do for something moving like this, but the HERO6 Black still does a noticeably better job than the HERO5 Black.
Other Ways to Stabilize
Getting smoother footage right out of the camera, with a feature that's just included, is hugely convenient. But it's not the only way to get less shaky footage when shooting video.
Ideally, you'd want the camera being shake-free from the get-go, and that's where accessories like a Karma Grip or gimbal or gyro come in. But that means buying and messing with another accessory. And they're not always convenient to use.
You can also apply stabilization in post with video editing apps. Final Cut Pro X and Adobe Premiere Pro both have decent stabilization features built in. They work well, although in my side-by-side tests I've found the HERO6 Black's stabilization to work even better.
Comparing the Stabilization of the GoPro HERO6 Black with the HERO5 Black
I've found that the HERO6 Black's in-camera stabilization is indeed much better. It's smoother and less prone to those odd little jerks that the HERO5 Black's had.
And for that matter, I've also found it to work better than the built-in stabilization options of Final Cut Pro X and Adobe Premier Pro CC's War Stabilizer on the automatic settings.
By itself, the improved stabilization might not be a huge selling point when trying to choose between the HERO5 Black and HERO6 Black, but to me it's a significant tick in the new model's favor.
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Common GoPro Questions
Here are some common questions I get from GoPro users.
How to Maximize a GoPro's battery life
There are several factors that influence how long the GoPro's battery life lasts. Among them include what mode you're recording in (4K uses more power than 1080p30, for instance), the health of the battery, and even the environmental temperature (lithium batteries don't perform well in very cold temperatures). But there are some things you can do to maximize battery life. Not every GoPro has all of these features, but start with these:
- Minimize use of the back screen
- Turn off wireless
- Turn off voice commands
- Turn off GPS
- Turn off Protune
- Use QuickCapture mode
Is it normal for GoPro cameras to get hot?
Yes. Depending on the model and the shooting mode you're using, it's normal for GoPros to get quite warm while shooting. They can get hot enough to be uncomfortable to touch. It's especially noticeable when shooting high-resolution and high-framerate video. Some newer models have an overheating protection mechanism that will shut the camera down if it gets too hot. I have more details on GoPros getting hot, here.
How can I control a GoPro remotely?
GoPro makes a range of wireless remote controls. They don't all work with all GoPros--for example, the HERO (2018) isn't compatible with this type of remote control. Many of the newer models also work with the GoPro mobile app. Not every model can be controlled remotely, but most of the newer models have wireless compatibility that can be used for at least some methods of remote control.
Can you take pictures with a GoPro?
If you've been using a GoPro for a while, this might seem pretty obvious, but if you've never used one, it's not quite so self-evident. GoPros are best known for dramatic action videos, but they can most certainly take still photos too. In fact, they can be a very interesting alternative to a traditional camera so long as you work within its limitations. I have more more details here.
Do GoPro wireless controls work underwater?
No. You can't use the mobile app or a wireless remote control if the camera is fully submerged in water. They will normally work just fine in rain and spray--just not submerged. I have a more detailed explanation here.
Do GoPro touchscreens work underwater?
No. If they're just wet above water, they can work to some extent, although often less reliably. But the touchscreens won't work underwater.
Matt Wicks says
Super helpful comprehensive information as usual. Thank you David!
Simon Cohen says
Great videos, but you really confused me by swapping which side of the video you put each camera, from video to video... if you get a chance, making them consistent would be great!
David says
Noted.