GoKawiilI've been using GoPro's Mission 1 Pro action camera for a few weeks now. I'm not quite ready to slap a final verdict on it, but I've definitely learned a few things that are worth knowing if you're considering buying one. I've tested a range of features, from the new slow-motion mode to shooting 50 megapixel stills, and it's impressed in some ways -- and left me wanting more in others.
But I'm not yet ready to give it a review score. The reason being that I've had a very early sample with unfinished software that isn't representative of how it might work if you went and bought one. My first model even had a pre-production lens, which was changed on the second unit I received. So while there are some things I've been able to test, it's not fair to the camera to base my review off what I've seen so far.
But here's what I can tell you.
How much is the Mission 1 Pro?
The Mission 1 Pro is on sale now for $700. Then there's the base Mission 1, which has the same large sensor and new processor of the Pro model but lacks the slow-motion skills. It costs $500. At the top of the range is the Mission 1 Pro ILS, which has the same specs as the model I've been testing but uses an interchangeable micro four thirds lens mount -- a first for any GoPro.
The ILS model -- due out later in the year -- will also cost you $700. It's the model I'm most excited about, but I'll get into that later.
Taken in DNG raw and adjusted in Lightroom, the wide-angle lens of the camera allowed me to capture a lot in one shot. Andrew Lanxon/CNET
Why is the Mission 1 Pro exciting?
The Mission 1 Pro's got a new GP3 image processor and a larger 1-inch sensor. GoPro says it offers better dynamic range and low-light performance. More importantly, it offers an astonishing 960fps frame rate for slow-motion video and 8K open-gate recording, meaning it captures footage using the entire sensor.
Those are potent specs from a device that still fits in the palm of your hand and is fully waterproof, even without a dive case.
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