Action-oriented cameras have always been a hallmark of the GoPro brand, much to the delight of outdoor enthusiasts. Nonetheless, this has not prevented a large number of consumers from purchasing GoPros for everyday use. The GoPro Hero 11 Black, which was introduced a few months ago, is the most recent model of their action camera. The GoPro Hero 11 features advancements in a variety of areas, including a new sensor, enhanced stabilization, and more, despite not being a radical departure in terms of design. But does the Hero 11 function as expected, and should average consumers consider purchasing it? Anyway, I took the GoPro Hero 11 out for a drive, got some film in my neighborhood, and discovered the following.
1. Unboxing
My GoPro Hero 11 Black arrived in a compact, well-organized packaging including the camera and its accessories. The exterior of the box is black and decorated with maritime wallpaper. It employs a flip-to-open design, similar to a book. When opened, it reveals the characteristics on the left flap and another picturesque image in the center.
Unfolding the packaging exposes the GoPro Gumby, a 360-degree rotatable flexible mount that can be used to install your GoPro camera anywhere. The Gumby is constructed from rubber twist ties with a flexible swivel mount that may be attached anywhere. To simplify things even more, think of it as an advanced Gorilla Pod.
2. Design
The Hero 11 is the most up-to-date GoPro action camera, although that does not imply any specific upgrades. And to underscore this, the Hero 11 features minimal design modifications. The exterior of the GoPro Hero 11 remains same, with the exception of a number 11 printed on the side. The camera has a similar compact, rectangular form to the Hero 10.
In addition, the camera features mounting tabs, side covers, and the same design overall. Continuing with the same theme, the Hero 10’s GP2 CPU has not changed, but the Hero 11’s Enduro battery has been updated. Once sold as an accessory, it is now included in the package. While the capacity stays unchanged at 1,720 mAh, GoPro has updated the battery’s chemistry to make it more durable.
Regarding portability, the Hero 11 maintains its small profile. This allowed me to place the camera in a pouch or sling bag and carry it anyplace without difficulty. The Hero 11 may be carried on your person or stowed in a bag due to its compact size. Even though the Gumby mount can be awkward to transport, it was portable enough.
3. Camera
The GoPro Hero 11 has a substantially identical user interface to the Hero 10. The general menu design is straightforward, with menu buttons for each item. When you want to swap FOV modes, you have the standard sliders. Additional choices, such as those to switch video modes and modify image settings, are easily accessible and grouped in a logical manner. The user interface of the GoPro Hero 11 is simple and intuitive, even for novices.
Yet, GoPro has simplified the process of shooting. The Hero 11 now includes a brand new Easy Mode. The shift is welcomed by newcomers. Essentially, Easy Mode allows users to pick between Highest Quality and Longer Battery Life. The camera will then change the remaining settings, allowing you to focus on the video recording. Yet, the Hero 11 camera retains its Pro Mode for professionals.
4. Performance
The GoPro Hero 11 is equipped with an assortment of video modes to meet the video requirements of content makers and general users. Although my use of GoPros is not extensive, I have taken the camera on a few journeys around my region. I’ve classified the numerous video modes in the table below, so peruse them according on your needs.
No one appreciates a choppy video or experience. As stated previously, the GoPro Hero 11 features a new HyperSmooth 5.0 engine for enhanced stability. So, I decided to test it. My testing condition consisted of a standard walking speed on a deserted route. I took care not to rush and to maintain a steady pace. Both videos were captured in 5.3K at 60fps. After watching the before and after footage, I was astounded by the transformation.
As previously stated, the GoPro Hero 11 Black has an Enduro battery with a capacity of 1,720 mAh. GoPro guarantees a battery life of up to 61 minutes when shooting in 5.3K at 60 frames per second. In our experience, the assertions were basically accurate. The aforementioned videos and photographs were captured in moderate weather conditions. I began the session with a fully charged GoPro Hero 11 Black. At the conclusion of my recording, 69% of the GoPro’s battery remained. As I utilized multiple video modes rather than a single mode, I believe the camera’s battery life was adequate.
All View
The GoPro Hero 11 Black is an action camera that performs well in a variety of areas. Equipped by a revolutionary 8:7 sensor, the Hero 11 is able to effortlessly capture high-quality images and movies. Other features such as HyperView, HyperSmooth, and 360 Horizon Locking enhance this offer. However, those holding a Hero 10 may wish to hold off on the incremental update for the time being. For those seeking their first action camera, the Hero 11 is an excellent option.
