The GoPro HERO3 is continuing it's dominance in the action camera realm. If you haven't read our GoPro guide post, be sure to check it out before you drop some serious cash on a camera. We've also done some posts on which accessories to buy depending on the type of activity you use your camera for. This depends on the mounts and accessories you need, be it snowboard and skiing, surfing, or cycling.
This time around, GoPro has introduced three editions of the camera: the White, Silver, and Black edition. The White is the cheapest (current retail is $199 - the same price of the GoPro HERO2), next is the Silver Edition at $229 (3+ is $299), and the Black Edition at $399. The new GoPro Hero 3+ cameras are 30% smaller in size.
GoPro Glossary
- Protune capability: GoPro's Protune technology is an advanced video mode that brings cinema-caliber video optimized for professional production -- it captures with less compression for a higher quality picture, neutral color profile, in cinema-quality 24 fps. It's basically a crazy quality of video. The only drawback is that it demolishes your battery, so you can't film in it for long.
- Wi-Fi built-in features: All cameras are wi-fi built in; however, only the black editions come with a remote. You must purchase that separately for other editions.
- SuperView: GoPro's trademarked video mode that is stated to capture the world's most 'immersive wide angle perspective'. All cameras are wide angle. The 1080p SuperView video resolution is 1920 x 1080, while the 720 SuperView is 1280 x 720. Only available in the black edition.
- For memory card compatibility, read our article explaining the best cards for your specific edition.
- Don't forget to take into consideration buying a camera protection plan (relatively cheap).
Similarities of All GoPro HERO 3 Cameras:
- All GoPro HERO3's are 1080p
- Built-in WiFi
- Have at least a 5 megapixel camera
- Enhanced audio performance
- Ultra wide angled aspherical lens
- Ports on camera: 3.5mm stereo mic adapter & composite A/V adapter (you'll need some accessories for these, unfortunately)
- Wearable, mountable design
- Compatible with all GoPro mounts
- Compatible with LCD Touch BacPac and their second generation Battery BacPac
- Backwards compatible with their older generation BacPac
Differences of the GoPro Hero 3+ Cameras
- 20% smaller and lighter than the regular Hero 3's
- The 3+ Black Edition includes SuperView and Protune
- Auto Low Light mode capabilities
- 30% longer battery
- 4x faster Wi-fi
- Sharper lens
- Compatible with all accessories
Differences between the GoPro HERO 3 Cameras:
- 1080p / 30 fps, 960p / 30 fps, or 720p / 60 fps video capture
- 5 Megapixel camera
- 3 fps burst
- Wi-Fi Built In
- Compatible with Wi-Fi remote and smart phone app
- Iincluded mounts and accessories: Rechargeable Li-Ion battery, QR buckle, one flat and curved adhesive mount, quick release mounts, and USB charging cable.
- 1080p / 30 fps, 960p / 48 fps, or 720p / 60 fps video capture
- 10 Megapixel camera
- 10 fps burst
- Wi-Fi Built In
- Compatible with Wi-Fi remote and smart phone app
- Included mounts and accessories: 197’/ 60m Waterproof Housing, Rechargeable Li-Ion battery, QR buckle, J-Hook buckle, one flat and curved adhesive mount, "assorted mounts", and USB charging cable.
- 2,700p / 30fps, 1440p / 48fps, 1080p / 60 fps, 960p / 120 fps, or 720p / 60 fps video capture
- 12 Megapixel camera
- 30 fps burst
- Wi-Fi Built In
- Wi-Fi remote included
- Pro Low-Light performance
- The GoPro App is free
- Compatible with Wi-Fi remote and smart phone app
- Included mounts and accessories: Wi-Fi Remote and Key Ring, Rechargeable Li-Ion battery, QR buckle, J-Hook buckle, 3-Way Pivot, one flat and curved adhesive mount, quick release mounts, and USB charging cable*
- Also available in the Black Surf Edition: Includes a surfboard mount instead of the adhesive mounts
I would personally go with the Silver Edition. It honestly depends on your budget; however, if I were even thinking about dropping some money on a GoPro camera I would spend the extra 100 bucks for the Silver. $399 seems a bit steep for a point of view camera, but hey, if you've got the dough -- grab it! Hope you enjoyed the review and stay tuned for more. I'll leave you guys with a cool video GoPro made for the HERO3 below. As always, be sure to check our site if you're interested in any of the new GoPro cameras or accessories!