I recently had the opportunity to test the GoPro Mission 1 Pro, the latest addition to GoPro's lineup of action cameras. I took it on three trips over six weeks, using it more like a point-and-shoot camera than an action camera. Here's my in-depth review and analysis of this innovative device.
The Point-and-Shoot Grip: A Game-Changer
One of the most impressive features of the Mission 1 Pro is its point-and-shoot grip. GoPro's design choices here are commendable. The grip is ergonomic, comfortable, and easy to use. It includes a frame, shutter mechanism, grip, and wrist strap, all snapping together with a satisfying click. This makes the camera feel more like a compact point-and-shoot camera, which was a pleasant surprise.
The grip offers a solid thumb rest and enough area to comfortably wrap your fingers around. However, I did notice that my thumb would naturally go over the lock, potentially leading to accidental camera drops. This is something to be mindful of during initial use.
Shooting Experience and Results
The Mission 1 Pro excels in capturing high-quality photos and videos. It can take 50MP shots with plenty of detail and a wide dynamic range. The fisheye effect on the ultrawide lens adds a unique twist to travel shots, which can be turned off if preferred. The fixed-focus lens, while not ideal for true point-and-shoot cameras, works well for subjects at a distance.
I experimented with 960fps slow-motion videos, which looked incredible when used in the right context. However, the downside is that these videos are recorded in HD, requiring upscaling for 4K projects. The 1-inch sensor and GP3 processor significantly improve low-light video quality, offering more natural colors compared to competitors.
Battery Life and Display
The Mission 1 Pro comes with a 2,150mAh Enduro 2 battery, offering 13% more capacity than the Hero 13 Black. Fast charging is a welcome feature, giving me a 75% charge in just 20 minutes. The camera's battery life is impressive, lasting entire days of mixed photo and video shooting without needing a recharge, except for 8K video days.
The camera's OLED rear display is brighter and larger than the Hero 13 Black's LCD, making it legible in direct sunlight. However, the tiny front screen is still an LCD and less legible. The GoPro Quik app remains intuitive, allowing for firmware upgrades, remote control, and video editing, although there were occasional issues with app detection.
Conclusion: A Step Forward for GoPro
In conclusion, the GoPro Mission 1 Pro is a significant upgrade for long-time Hero users. It offers better low-light footage, improved still photos, and useful accessories. The point-and-shoot grip is a game-changer, providing an ergonomic experience. While it comes at a cost of $700, the Mission 1 Pro is a powerful tool for content creators and enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of action and point-and-shoot capabilities.
Personally, I think the Mission 1 Pro is a testament to GoPro's commitment to innovation. It raises the bar for action cameras, providing a more versatile and user-friendly experience. What makes this particularly fascinating is the seamless transition between action and point-and-shoot modes, showcasing GoPro's ability to adapt to diverse shooting needs.
