Introduction
The GoXtreme Black Hawk 4K represents the cutting edge in the realm of high-end action cameras, boasting a suite of advanced features that place it at the forefront of its class. It offers 4K resolution at 30 frames per second (fps), full HD (1080p) at an impressive 120 fps, and a depth rating of 60 meters underwater, making it a formidable tool for capturing crisp, dynamic video in a variety of settings. Additionally, the camera includes time-lapse functionality and a 2-inch rear LCD screen, enhancing its versatility and user-friendliness.
The specifications of the GoXtreme Black Hawk 4K closely mirror those of the GoPro Hero4 Black, hinting at a shared lineage in sensor and processor technology. Rumors suggest the two cameras might share similar sensor and processor components, making it challenging to distinguish between their output quality. The Black Hawk 4K is equipped with a 12.4 million pixel Sony IMX117 image sensor and an Ambarella A12 processor, the latter of which is a more advanced iteration than the one found in the Hero4, potentially offering superior processing capabilities.
While video quality is paramount in action cameras, seasoned users understand that usability encompasses much more, indicating that the GoXtreme Black Hawk 4K might have additional features and functionalities to explore.
Features
The GoXtreme Black Hawk 4K stands out in the competitive action camera market with its impressive features, which closely resemble those of the GoPro Hero4, yet at a significantly lower cost. This price advantage makes the Black Hawk 4K a tempting alternative, especially considering the similar high-quality specifications it offers.
Key among its features is the ability to record in 4K resolution at 30 frames per second (fps), and in 1080p at 120fps, enabling crisp, detailed footage, particularly in well-lit environments. The performance of the Black Hawk 4K in these settings is anticipated to be on par with the Hero4, with the potential for even better results at 120fps due to its updated A12 processor, which is expected to handle high-speed data more efficiently than the older A9 processor used in the Hero4.
The camera comes equipped with an ultra-wide 170-degree field of view lens, offering expansive coverage for dynamic shooting scenarios. WiFi connectivity is standard, allowing for remote control and easy sharing via a companion app available for both iOS and Android devices.
For advanced users, the Black Hawk 4K includes manual exposure controls, although it lacks a ProTune equivalent setting for more granular adjustments. The design of the camera is reminiscent of the Hero4, featuring external waterproof housing that offers robust protection in various environments, from aquatic adventures to rugged outdoor activities, with a water resistance depth of up to 60 meters.
A significant feature is the 2-inch rear display, which facilitates shot composition, footage preview, and menu navigation. Power is supplied by a 1050mAh lithium battery, providing approximately an hour and a half of usage, which may vary based on settings and operating conditions.
In the package, along with the camera, are several accessories including a tripod adapter, monopod adapter, and various connectors and mounts, enhancing the camera’s versatility. The only additional purchase necessary is an SD card, which must be U3 / Class 10 or higher to accommodate the high data rates of 4K and high-speed recording.
Overall, the GoXtreme Black Hawk 4K’s robust feature set, combined with its competitive pricing, positions it as a strong contender in the action camera market, appealing to both casual enthusiasts and serious videographers alike.
GoXtreme Black Hawk 4k: Features
The GoXtreme Black Hawk 4K captures attention with its feature set, closely mirroring the GoPro Hero4 but at a 30% lower price point, even considering the discounts on remaining Hero4 units. It showcases 4K video capture at 30fps and 1080p at 120fps, promising excellent visual quality, especially in bright conditions where its performance can match or exceed that of the Hero4.
A notable aspect of the Black Hawk 4K is its updated chipset, potentially enhancing the 120fps footage quality. Where the Hero4’s A9 processor may falter, leading to pixelation due to data processing limits, the Black Hawk’s A12 processor is expected to provide a marked improvement in handling high-speed video without compromising quality.
The camera features a standard ultra-wide 170º lens, offering a broad field of view for expansive shots. It also includes full WiFi connectivity, complemented by a supporting app available for iOS and Android devices, allowing for remote control and easy sharing of footage.
While the Black Hawk 4K includes several manual exposure options catering to advanced users, it lacks a ProTune equivalent feature for finer control over image settings. The design remains reminiscent of the Hero4, with an external waterproof housing that adds durability and protection under various conditions, suitable for both aquatic use and rugged outdoor activities, with waterproofing effective up to 60 meters.
A significant user-friendly feature is the 2-inch rear display, facilitating shot composition, footage review, and menu navigation. The camera is powered by a 1050mAh lithium battery, offering about 90 minutes of operation, with performance depending on the mode and usage conditions.
In the package, along with the camera, you will find practical accessories like a tripod adapter, monopod adapter, and other connectors and mounts, enhancing the camera’s adaptability. To complete the setup, users will need to procure a U3 / Class 10 or higher SD card, ensuring the storage can keep up with the high data rate of 4K and high-speed recordings.
GoXtreme Black Hawk 4k: Build Quality and Handling
The GoXtreme Black Hawk 4K continues to uphold the tradition of robust build quality and practical handling common in action cameras. Unlike some of its competitors like GoPro, TomTom, and Nikon, which have moved away from waterproof housings, the Black Hawk 4K embraces this protective feature with a high-quality case designed for durability and longevity.
The camera’s case is equipped with four spring-loaded buttons: two on the side for navigating settings, a front button for power and mode switching, and a top shutter button. These buttons are large enough to operate comfortably in various conditions, including underwater or with gloves, ensuring ease of use and a seamless interaction with the camera’s controls. The alignment of these external buttons with the camera’s own ensures a hassle-free operation even in challenging environments.
A notable feature of the case is its flat lens front, devoid of unnecessary embellishments, which simplifies cleaning and maintenance. Although the lens on the case is not replaceable, the overall cost of a new case is reasonable, especially when considering the lack of a “GoPro premium” price tag.
The base of the case includes a GoPro-compatible two-prong mount, which tested well with a range of GoPro accessories and metal mountings, demonstrating good compatibility and fit. The case’s lever lock mechanism is robust, providing a secure seal every time, complemented by a reliable rubber seal and rubber feet on the back door to prevent internal camera movement.
Out of its housing, the camera sports a matte rubberized finish, lending it a premium feel, accentuated by a small gold plaque indicating its 4K 30fps UltraHD capability. The camera features the necessary buttons for operation, with exposed ports for MicroSD, USB, and HDMI connections, though these are unprotected without the waterproof housing.
The camera’s base houses a battery compartment and a standard 1/4-inch tripod thread, allowing for easy attachment to tripods like the Manfrotto Pixi Off Road. Menu navigation is intuitive, facilitated by the side and top buttons, with well-organized menus making setting adjustments straightforward.
The interface design, while not as polished as the latest GoPro models, is effective, with the added benefit of a rear screen enabling shot composition and footage review without needing an external app. However, the GoXtreme Black Hawk 4K does offer a companion app, ‘GoAction App’, providing full control and live view capabilities in a clear and functional layout, despite its slightly dated appearance.
Overall, the GoXtreme Black Hawk 4K excels in build quality and handling, offering a user-friendly experience with a design that balances traditional action camera features with modern conveniences.
GoXtreme Black Hawk 4k: Performance
The GoXtreme Black Hawk 4K not only matches but in some aspects surpasses the Hero4 Black, particularly with its updated Ambarella processor. High expectations were set for its performance, and through rigorous testing, it proved to be a strong contender in the action camera market.
Compatibility with various mounts, including GoPro’s own and third-party options, was seamless, ensuring secure and reliable attachment in diverse setups. The camera’s connectivity through the app was stable within a 5-meter range, beyond which some pixilation occurred— a common trait among action cameras despite manufacturer claims of longer effective distances.
Operational responsiveness was impressive, with quick start-stop recording functionality and smooth live stream and footage previewing through the app. A minor lag of less than a second between the camera and live view was noted, but this did not significantly impact usability.
The 2-inch LCD screen on the Black Hawk 4K was particularly advantageous, offering intuitive navigation and setting adjustments, outperforming the GoPro Hero4 Black in user-friendliness.
Despite less-than-ideal weather conditions during testing, the camera managed to produce quality footage comparable to the Hero4 Black, especially in low light situations where some pixilation was observed. The detail clarity and color graduation in the footage were commendable, aligning with the performance of the Hero4 and Yi 4K, although it slightly lagged in dynamic range compared to the Hero4.
The Black Hawk 4K shone in 1080p at 120fps mode, where it maintained good quality footage, even under challenging weather conditions, indicating the superior performance of its processor and sensor in high-speed settings.
In conclusion, the GoXtreme Black Hawk 4K demonstrates excellent build and visual quality, making it a worthy competitor in the action camera domain, capable of delivering impressive performance across various conditions.
GoXtreme Black Hawk 4K: Verdict
The GoXtreme Black Hawk 4K stands out in the evolving action camera market, offering a strong alternative to higher-priced models like the GoPro Hero4 Black, and even the newer Hero5 Black. Its competitive pricing, paired with its ability to deliver high-quality visuals, makes it an attractive option for consumers.
The camera’s performance is commendable, with user-friendly operation in switching settings, mode changes, app usage, and footage review. While it may not be at the forefront of innovation, lacking the latest features like motion sensors, GPS, and voice control found in newer cameras, the Black Hawk 4K excels in its core function of capturing excellent video quality without the hefty price tag associated with advanced features.
For those in search of a reliable and efficient action camera, the GoXtreme Black Hawk 4K proves to be a prudent choice, balancing cost and performance effectively. Its straightforward design and operation underscore its appeal, making it a noteworthy contender for enthusiasts and budget-conscious consumers alike.
For further information on the GoXtreme Black Hawk 4K, you can visit www.goxtreme-action-cams.com.