Expert Review: Is the GoPro Hero 4 Session Worth the Hype for its Form Factor?
Summary
Brett Ros, a tech writer, reviews the GoPro Hero 4 Session, which comes with unique features such as a small size, waterproof without housing, and ease of use. The article points out that the camera may be perfect for water sports and other outdoor activities due to its ruggedness. However, its form factor is emphasized over image quality, which takes a considerable hit compared to other models, and its price point is relatively high compared to its abilities. The article concludes that despite the Sessio’s unique advantages, those that prioritize image quality will likely find more value in models like the Hero 4 Silver or Black.
Table of Contents
- Small, Rugged, and Waterproof
- Form Factor and Mounting Capabilities
- User Experience
- Image Quality and Price Point
- Final Thoughts
Small, Rugged, and Waterproof
The Hero 4 Session’s most notable feature is its smallness and ruggedness, which is enhanced by its ability to function underwater without needing additional waterproof housing. The Sessio is 50% smaller than other GoPro cameras when waterproof, and 35% lighter, making it perfect for outdoor activities like water sports, hiking, or mountain biking. This camera’s waterproof ability makes it unique, and users will no longer have to worry about purchasing additional housing to protect their camera from water or water droplets.
Form Factor and Mounting Capabilities
Unlike the standard rectangular-shaped GoPro, the Session takes the form of a perfect little inch and a half cube. This makes it easier to use in different orientations and allows for side mounting without the need for awkward elbow type mounts. The Hero 4 Session comes with two different frames, standard and low profile, both of which are highly recommended. The frames have straps that catch a little water when swimming freestyle; however, this does not affect the camera itself negatively. During breaststroke, the camera was pretty much forgotten due to the lack of downsides.
User Experience
GoPro claims that the Hero 4 Session’s ease of use is impressive. With only two buttons, the camera is straightforward and easy to use. Users only need to press the main button to start recording or stop shooting and turn off after pressing again. The camera saves a ton of battery life, even more than the Hero4 Silver camera, which comes with a larger battery. However, it takes about four seconds to turn on, which may feel like an eternity when waiting for a wave. By holding the main button for an extended time, the camera goes into time-lapse mode, taking one picture every half second. Unfortunately, it is impossible to change the camera’s settings, modes or functions without pairing it with a smartphone or GoPro Wi-Fi remote control, which sells separately.
Image Quality and Price Point
The GoPro Hero 4 Session is advertised as a device with unique features such as its small size, waterproofness, and ease of use, all of which come at a price that many customers might not find economical. Despite the camera being sold at the same price point as the Hero 4 Silver model, the image quality remains inferior compared to other GoPro models, such as the Silver or the Black. The image quality has a significant hit due to the camera’s form factor, which highlights other features instead of the functions. This is especially noticeable when comparing the Hero 4 Session to the Hero 4 Silver since the latter produces better and more accurate shots even in low-light environments.
Final Thoughts
The Hero 4 Session is great for those who focus more on the camera’s form factor than the image quality. The small size and waterproof capabilities make it a unique device that can be used in various outdoor and water sports activities. However, the camera’s image quality is subpar, making it more appropriate for non-professional users interested in standby sales or just a device to record memories with. The camera’s price point may cause one to gravitate towards the more renowned and full-featured camera options, such as the Hero 4 Black and Hero 4 Silver.
Is the Hero 4 Session ideal for you? Share your opinions with us in the comments section. If you haven’t already, please subscribe to Wired. Thanks for reading!
