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GoPro packs big video into tiny Hero3 camera (pictures)

GoPro's new Hero3 Black Series is 30 percent smaller than the previous generation, but can capture video that's four times sharper thanks to 4K capture technology.

Antuan Goodwin
Antuan Goodwin gained his automotive knowledge the old fashioned way, by turning wrenches in a driveway and picking up speeding tickets. From drivetrain tech and electrification to car audio installs and cabin tech, if it's on wheels, Antuan is knowledgeable.
Antuan Goodwin
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1 of 12 Antuan Goodwin/CNET
The GoPro Hero3 Black Edition is an all-new, flagship camera from GoPro. It's 25 percent lighter and 30 percent smaller than the previous generation.
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2 of 12 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

New protective case

The new waterproof case features a flat lens cover that is similar to that of the recently released dive housing that offers improved video quality for underwater recording.
GoProHero3_01.jpg
3 of 12 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

Wi-Fi connectivity

The all GoPro Hero3 models feature built-in Wi-Fi and compatibility with the GoPro app and the Wi-Fi remote. The top-tier Black Edition actually includes a Wi-Fi remote in the box.
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4 of 12 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

Rear door lock

The new waterproof housing features a lock for its rear door's lock. Yes, it is a lock on top of a lock. I feel that this is a bit unnecessarily complex when the old locking mechanism always seemed secure enough for my needs.
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5 of 12 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

The Hero3 camera

The Hero3 features the same upgraded LCD interface that made the Hero2 so much easier to use than any previous GoPro model. The buttons for power/mode select and shutter release are larger and easier to hit when the camera is used outside of the case.
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6 of 12 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

Rear panel

The back panel is where you'll find the removable lithium ion rechargeable battery and the data connection for the BacPac accessories.
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7 of 12 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

Battery

The Hero3's battery is also more compact than the cell that powers the Hero2. Like the previous generation, it is removable and swappable.
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8 of 12 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

Inputs and connections

Beneath a plastic door on the side of the unit, you'll find the Hero3's collection of ports and inputs. Micro-HDMI outputs digital video and audio. Meanwhile, Mini-USB is used for charging, syncing, and -- with the help of optional accessories -- a microphone input or analog video output. The smaller Hero3 no longer has space for a full-size SD card, so it steps down to microSD.
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9 of 12 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

Wi-Fi connection

The Hero3 features dual internal microphones for improved audio quality. On this side of the device, you can see the button to activate and deactivate the Wi-Fi connectivity.
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10 of 12 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

What's in the box?

The $399.99 GoPro Hero3 Black Edition includes the Hero3 camera and its case, a nonwaterproof skeleton replacement door for that case, a few adhesive mounts, the Wi-Fi remote, some GoPro stickers, and USB charging cables for the camera and its remote.
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11 of 12 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

GoPro family

The first-generation GoPro Hero poses alongside the previous generation Hero2 and the all-new Hero3.
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12 of 12 Antuan Goodwin/CNET

Smallest GoPro camera yet

The Hero3 is the smallest GoPro camera yet, edging out the first-gen Hero with its lower-profile lens and better integrated battery pack.

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