GoPro Hero 7 Black review

GoPro Hero 7 Black review: verdict

The GoPro Hero 7 Black might no longer be the most advanced action camera you can buy – that's the GoPro Hero 9 Black – but it does now offer excellent value. Its lower price also now gives it the slight edge over the impressive DJI Osmo Action.

While it's possible to buy a 4K action camera for considerably less, the Hero 7 Black really doubled down on the software and performance advantages that have rightly made GoPro the byword for action cameras. The inclusion of the very effective HyperSmooth stabilization is a big bonus over older models, while its TimeWarp feature is a lot of fun to play with.

The refreshed UI and portrait options also made the GoPro Hero7 Black easier and more convenient to use than before. The Hero 9 Black takes this a step further with its front-facing screen, while the Mod accessories will help boost that camera and the Hero 8 Black's versatility beyond what's on offer here.  

That said, the Hero 7 Black remains a fine option that's more than enough action camera for most people – there are no glaring omissions, its video quality is excellent, and its new price tag makes it a fine choice for anyone who needs a tough, waterproof camera for both video and stills duty. 

• These are the best cheap action cameras you can buy right now

GoPro Hero 7 Black review: competition

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GoPro Hero 6 Black

It lacks the Hero 7 Black's TimeWarp feature and HyperSmooth stabilization, but the Hero 6 remains a pretty formidable camera. It records 4K footage with effective stabilization and packs much of the same when it comes to waterproofing, voice control and wireless functionality. 

Read our in-depth GoPro Hero 6 Black review

DJI Osmo Action

A fine alternative to the GoPro Hero 7 Black, the DJI Osmo Action brings a few advantages over its rival, including a front screen (useful for vlogging), a larger rear screen and a more responsive interface. At launch, it was also cheaper than its GoPro rival, but now the Hero 7 Black is a similar price, the latter just about has the edge. While video quality and stabilization is comparable, GoPro's former flagship brings the option of livestreaming, plus a bigger selection of official accessories.

Read our in-depth DJI Osmo Action review

Yi 4K+ Action Camera

Yi has made a name crafting some very keenly priced alternatives to the Hero line, and the Yi 4K+ is the current star of the series. It has great-quality 4K capture to 60p, Raw and JPEG output and fuss-free operation to recommend it, although you can't go underwater with it and you don't get quite the same magic from its stabilisation system as the GoPro Hero7 Black either.