GoPro Karma history

GoPro Karma was one of 2016 most anticipated drone launches. All this hype was a lot to live up to, and it had a big stumble. GoPro, unfortunately, had to recall after only being on the market for barely one month.  GoPro responded very well to the customers who bought Karma. Offering a free GoPro Hero5 black camera ($400 value) in exchange for returning their Karma drone. With the release of DJI’s Mavic Pro, the GoPro Karma was in a tough uphill battle.

Finally re-releasing Karma in February of 2017, but missing out on the all-important holiday season. For Karma and GoPro, it seemed that the damage had been done. In October of 2017, GoPro added two great upgrades to Karma. Hero6 black and a much-needed “follow” feature to its firmware update. I believe GoPro could have captured a ton more Karma customers had this feature been on board from day one.

Many compare GoPro Karma to the DJI Mavic Pro. The first and major one is the price. Karma and Mavic-Pro are both within that $1,000 price range. This leads a lot of  YouTube.com tech creators doing reviews comparing the two drones. The growing number of content creators making challenging “who’s better” reviews is a big part. GoPro Karma is in no way a bad drone. Here is a quick tip on hand launching and catching Karma.

GoPro Karma a Good Drone

First off I see GoPro Karma as much more than just a drone. I’m sorry, but to quote Mr. Woodman it is “more than a drone”. GoPro Karma is a video creation system in one package. For the price of, just a drone (flying camera) you get a drone, camera, and an amazing handheld gimbal. Does the GoPro Karma have the same flight time, range, and speed? No. Drone pilots desire a smooth handling drone. A key flight characteristic needed when filming aerial video. Karma does this very well. Also, Karma gives it’s users so much more in the way of filming options. Using the handheld gimbal you have the ability to capture amazingly smooth shots. GoPro camera itself is only 2″ x 3″ which can be taken anywhere. Also with additional mounts capturing immersive content is endless.

Karma & GoPro camera

The single part of Karma that in my opinion makes it great, the GoPro camera. DJI has amazing drones I don’t think anyone will debate that. Action cameras have been GoPro’s strong point. Onboard Karma first with Hero5 black and now Hero6 black making Karma an incredible flying camera drone. I have enjoyed my Karma drone and will continue using it to capture adventures.