The GoPro Hero 5 still isn’t here, but in the meantime, the company has announced a new model that seems to be aimed at budget buyers who need an action camera with the most basic features and the functionality to easily preview their captured recordings. The Hero+ LCD is the ideal model for users who aren’t interested in the best features that the company’s latest models have to offer, but still want respectable quality in their recordings and a durable device that can withstand a moderate level of abuse.
The model is mostly a revisiting of the original Hero which came out in the fall, adding an LCD to the configuration, as well as various small improvements that make it a better experience than the first Hero. Of course, it also costs slightly more than the original model, but the price seems to be definitely justified looking at the new features that it brings.
GoPro have been reluctant to add displays to their cameras before, but they started to change their mind with the release of the Hero 4 Silver, and now the Hero+ LCD is their second model to feature an integrated display for easy previewing. Needless to say, response to the new feature has been very positive, and most critics agreed that the device is definitely easier and more convenient to use with a built-in display.
Previously, users were limited to using the GoPro app for smartphones which wasn’t the most elegant solution and was prone to some issues, but this will no longer be a problem. One thing worth noting is that the display isn’t detachable, so users will always have to open the rear door of the device if they want to access the touchscreen controls.
Shooting capabilities of the device have been improved, as it’s now capable of recording 1080p video at 60fps, as opposed to the 30fps that its predecessor was capable of. The original Hero did have the ability to record 60fps video, but only at 720p. The camera’s sensor has been improved as well, replacing the 5-megapixel one with a new 8-megapixel model.
Users will also get Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, improving the connectivity over the last version of the device, and the new GoPro Hero+ LCD also has the new HiLight tagging function that has been active in the news for some time. All in all, it’s a pretty good package on its own, without even comparing it to the Hero that it upgrades, but there’s also no denying that it’s good as an upgrade as well.