GoPro is taking a bold leap forward with their new MISSION 1 line of compact cameras. Billed as the world’s smallest, lightest, most rugged cinema cameras, initial offerings include the MISSION 1 PRO, capable of 8K60p and 4K240p, the MISSION 1, which supports 8K30p and 4K120p, and the MISSION 1 PRO ILS, which swaps the fixed lens for a Micro Four Thirds (MFT) lens mount. All three cameras utilize a 50MP 1” sensor for better detail and low light capture, as well as a new GP3 processor for better battery life and heat dissipation.
Let’s start with what’s the same across the MISSION 1 series. The flagship features include the aforementioned 1” sensor, with a promised 14 stops of dynamic range, and the GP3 processor, which includes a dedicated AI Neural Processor Unit (NPU). GoPro is aiming for professional image quality here, with large 3.2µm fused pixels when the cameras are in Quad Bayer mode. All three cameras have an open gate mode for 4:3 capture, and utilize Enduro 2 batteries. The OLED rear display is also 14% larger than on previous models.
There are thirteen capture modes optimized for specific shooting scenarios, including Dive and Vlog, and bit rates can be dialed all the way up to 240 Mbps for capturing HDR or 10-bit color content using GP-Log2. The cameras have four microphones with 32-bit float recording, and can take 50-megapixel photos, HDR photos, or even burst capture photos at 60 frames per second. The MISSON 1 and MISSION 1 PRO are waterproof up to 66', while the ILS version is weatherproof but requires waterproof housing because of the lens mount.
So, what are the differences? The MISSION 1 PRO is your flagship, capable of 8K60p, 4K240p, and 1080p at up to 960fps in 16:9 mode. The 4:3 open gate mode can go up to 8K30p and 4K120p. The MISSION 1 PRO ILS has the same sensor and specs but does away with the 159° field-of-view lens in favor of a versatile MFT mount that’s compatible with hundreds of high-quality lenses. The MISSION 1 keeps the built-in GoPro lens but scales back capture rates to 8K30p in 16:9. It is still capable of 4K120p in open gate or slow-motion modes, but not 8K open gate.
There is also a whole new accessory ecosystem that includes a two-person Wireless Mic System, a Point-and-Shoot Grip that adds extra mounting points, a Media Mod I/O expander, a Volta 2 Battery Grip, M-Series ND filters, the Light Mod 2 LED light, and more. The Mic System can capture 24-bit/48 kHz audio with Dynamic Noise Reduction and ultra-light 10g magnetic transmitters. One last interesting note: GoPro says the ILS edition will still support HyperSmooth stabilization so long as you’re using a prime rectilinear lens.
For more information about the GoPro MISSION 1 cameras, including features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out the detailed product pages.
