Review: GoPro HD Hero2
GoPro shoots for online video pros with the new HD Hero2, which adds an improved CMOS sensor, better glass, and from-the-wrist remote control and live streaming to a camera line that's become a go-to device for aerial, POV, and action sports applications.
Still Camera Functionality
One of the biggest perks of any GoPro HD camera is the amount of options that the user can select from. The GoPro HD Hero isn't just a compact HD video camera, it's also an excellent still camera. One of the major upgrades from the older GoPro HD Hero as compared to the newer GoPro HD Hero2 is the ability to take higher-resolution pictures and at different intervals. The older version limited users to 5MP pictures in increments of 2, 5, 10, 30, and 60 seconds.
The new GoPro HD Hero2 lets you do all that, plus take pictures every second or half second, as well as a new photo burst option that takes 10 high-quality pictures in one second-another boon to sports event pros.
Improved CMOS Sensor and Glass
And did I mention the improved CMOS sensor and option of taking pictures in 5MP, 8MP, or 11MP mode? This little camera now packs an even bigger punch when it comes to taking still photographs, but the upgrades for the GoPro HD Hero2 don't stop there.
The new sensor in the camera, in combination with a sharper lens allows for even clearer and crisper images in both still and video mode. The variety of modes in the new camera for shooting video has expanded just a little bit further from its predecessor. The new GoPro Hero2 can now shoot progressive, 1920x1080 video at 48fps and 30 fps, and WVGA standard video at 120fps or 60fps in addition to the other video settings. (See complete imaging specs for the GoPro HD Hero2 as well as comparisons to other GoPro models.)
Stereo Recording
The GoPro HD Hero2 now comes with a stereo port for an external microphone, which is a step up from the original which had no port at all. Both the original and the new generations of GoPro have an internal mono mic, using AAC compression.
Larger LCD Screen
A new larger LCD screen allows for easy navigation through menus. There are also new icons instead of confusing letters that represent different menus and settings.
The Hero2's enlarged LCD screen
This is a small but significant improvement over the original GoPro, and allows for faster and easier navigation and control over the camera setting which comes in handy when you're in a rush. At only (H x W x D): 1.6" x 2.4" x 1.2" and weighing only 3.3oz (without housing), this little camera is capable of capturing stunning content in full 1080p HD quality.
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