GoPro has updated its entry-level line of Hero action cameras with the Hero+ LCD, a new more budget-friendly touchscreen-toting offering. As with the previous GoPro Hero camera, the Hero+ LCD is built directly into its waterproof housing, but this time offers a rear LCD touchscreen, video recording up to 1080p 60 fps, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
As those who are familiar with the GoPro naming convention will note, the number-lacking Hero+ LCD is part of the firm's entry-level line-up. It will sit under the GoPro Hero4 Black and Silver models, but above the budget GoPro Hero, which it trumps both by the inclusion of an LCD screen, along with improved video and photo modes, and wireless connectivity. GoPro is marketing the Hero+ LCD at those who value the simplicity and convenience of an all-in-one design.
The headline attraction of the Hero+ LCD over the Hero is that built-in rear touchscreen, which was previously exclusive to the Hero4 Silver. This not only allows users to compose shots better and see what they are shooting, but also review clips. The addition of a new in-camera video trimming feature also means users can cut any footage which isn't quite extreme enough before sharing it via the app.
In terms of video modes, the GoPro Hero+ LCD is capable of shooting Full HD 1080p or HD 720p footage at 60 frames per second. This places it firmly between the Hero, which maxes out at 1080p 30 fps or 720p 60 fps, and the Hero4 Silver which can do 1080p 60 fps and 720p 120 fps, along with 4K at 15 fps. The new camera also shoots 8-megapixel stills with speeds up to 5 fps, compared to the 5-megapixel and 5 fps limit of the Hero, and the 12-megapixel and 30 fps burst of the Hero4 Silver.
Other features worth noting on the Hero+ LCD include HiLight Tagging which lets users mark key moments while recording and during playback so they can easily find them later, and the inclusion of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless connectivity. This allows use of the GoPro App for easy camera control and shot preview, and sharing content with a smart device. The camera can also be used with the GoPro Smart Remote.
As you would expect from a GoPro camera, the Hero+ LCD is rugged and waterproof to 40 m (131 ft). However, as with the previous Hero, it's built directly into its waterproof housing. This mean no switching to something like the Frame or Blackout housing (though you can swap the rear Backdoor of the case, with the Skeleton and Touch Backdoors included). Opening this is also how you'll access the microSD card slot, or Micro USB port. However, because the battery is integrated, you can't swap it for a fully charged one when it runs out after two hours of use.
It's not just the specifications of the GoPro Hero+ LCD that received a bump – it will be priced at US$300, compared to the $130 of last year's Hero, and putting it closer to the $400 Hero4 Silver. It will be available June 7th in the US, and internationally from July 12th.
You can check out the new GoPro Hero+ LCD in the promo video below.
Product page: GoPro Hero+ LCD
