CW Evaluation: GoPro HERO3 Camera (Video Review)

Which “edition” of this new POV camera is the best buy?

Capturing point-of-view video is now as easy as buying a camera, mounting it on your motorcycle and pressing “record.” The most difficult part might be deciding which version of GoPro’s new Hero3 is right for you: White, Silver or Black.

Let’s start with the economically priced White Edition ($199.99). This palm-sized camera is made for general consumers and available at big-box stores like Best Buy. Basically, the White is a smaller version of the original Hero, with the addition of built-in Wi-Fi. It will shoot in HD 1080p and take 5-megapixel photos. It’s a solid, proven camera.

Sold at motorcycle dealerships and action-sports outlets, the Silver Edition ($299.99) is more flexible. Intended for “prosumers,” this model has a wider field of vision and a Protune mode for greater post-production control. The Silver also takes 11-MP photos at 10 frames per second for time-lapse video. Think of it as a second-gen Hero2 in a smaller package.

The ultimate GoPro is the Black Edition ($399.99, including $79.99 remote). Astonishingly capable, it’s designed for professionals and available only at high-end camera shops. It has a better lens, a new processor and the ability to shoot from 720p all the way to 4K Cinema resolution. (If you have to ask what 4K is, the Black is probably not for you.) With 137 different video-capture options, this camera is way over the top for an Average Joe.

So, if you’re shooting your kid’s birthday party, go with White. Budding filmmaker? Black is a fantastic deal. For backroad, track-day or off-road riders wanting to step up their game and do more editing, the choice is simple: Silver.

UPS DOWNS
GoPro HERO3 www.gopro.com **PRICE: $199.99 to $399.99 * Built-in Wi-Fi * Free smart-phone app * Accessories are interchangeable with those of previous Hero cameras * Better battery life, please * Hinky case lock * Micro SD cards are expensive

LOOK, LEAN, RECORD: GoPro3 is small, lightweight and comes with a waterproof case.

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