The GoPro 9 has just been announced! The price has gone up compared to the GoPro Hero8 Black, but they now have a deal where it's cheaper if you get it with a 12-month GoPro subscription. I guess they're hoping to get you hooked and continue the $99/year subscription. You can cancel the subscription before the next billing period without any penalty - don't forget to set a reminder to do so! You can cancel it immediately but then you'll lose out on the features.
The 3.5% cashback at CashRewards should work. I'm not sure if they count GST in the cashback, but if they don't, and it's approved, that'll bring the price down to $542.13.
Note: Don't bother getting the $659.95 bundle (GoPro + spare batt + handle + clip). If you add all those items to your cart individually, it'll be $620.85 as the GoPro subscription comes with a discount on accessories. The discount will be reflected in your cart once you add the $559.95 camera to your cart.
Their new pricing strategy is interesting. So far it doesn't look like any of the other retailers are offering this free subscription offer, they only list the camera alone for $699. This deal is basically 20% off the retail price, plus a year's free GoPro subscription. That's not going to make retailers happy! The offer will continue until GoPro decides to terminate it at its discretion.
Compared to the GoPro Hero8 Black, the 9 has:
- A front screen (note that it's ~5fps in 4K mode)
- Larger rear screen
- 5K30 video
- 20MP photos
- Much longer battery life from a new larger battery
- Better cold weather performance
- The replaceable front lens protector is back
- Even better image stabilisation, in every resolution
- In-camera auto-levelling horizon
- Can livestream to more destinations, including custom RTMP
- Scheduled capture - set it to switch on and start recording a timelapse at e.g. 5.30am
- Hindsight mode (save the previous 15/30 seconds)
- Max SV Mod (looks like an ultrawide lens attachment)
- Comes with a nice carry case now
The subscription gives you:
- Unlimited cloud storage for your GoPro footage
- Up to 50% off on accessories on gopro.com
- Swap your camera for any reason for $149
Here's a review.
Side by side video samples comparing the Hero 9 to the Hero 8, Osmo Action, and Insta360 One R.
Looks like Total is $514.42 though ? where does $492 come in?