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GoPro MISSION 1 vs PRO vs PRO ILS Guide

After weeks of anticipation, GoPro has unveiled its new MISSION 1 compact cinema cameras, aimed at filmmakers, creators and enthusiasts. Three MISSION 1 GoPro camera models are available, all of which feature a new sensor, upgraded Enduro 2 battery and cinematic 8K video capabilities.

This marks a shift from action camera to compact cinema system, in a new category. And, excitingly, one of the models even includes an interchangeable Micro Four Thirds lens mount, enabling users to switch lenses while still shooting with a rugged, weather resistant action camera.

Discover which of these suits your style of shooting in our GoPro MISSION 1 comparison.  This Guide takes a deep dive into key specs, the differences between them and how each model fits in with different shooting styles.

So without further ado, let’s start with the models, UK price and release date.

The MISSION 1 Camera with fixed lens front view above

Models and UK launch date

Originally announced on Apr 14, 2026, these cameras are available in three flavours:

1. MISSION 1 PRO – £499, with the highest frame rates and full Open Gate recording.
2. MISSION 1 – £429, with the same sensor and processor but reduced frame rates.
3. MISSION 1 PRO ILS – £599, interchangeable-lens version with a Micro Four Thirds mount for compatible manual lenses and adapted cinema glass.

All three share the same 50MP 1-inch sensor and GP3 processor, so image quality is not the primary distinction between them. The main differences are recording speeds, Open Gate options and, in the case of the ILS, the ability to choose and adapt manual lenses.

MISSION 1 PRO ILS Supplied by GoPro

What is the difference between GoPro MISSION 1, PRO and PRO ILS?

These differ in max frame rates, Open Gate recording and lens configuration. The PRO provides the highest recording speeds with an integrated lens, while the standard model reduces frame rates at a lower price. The PRO ILS has the higher-end recording modes but replaces the fixed lens with a 'dumb' mount for compatible manual lenses and adapted cinema glass.

How will lenses work on ILS?

Although it uses a Micro 4/3 mount, it does not have electronic lens contacts. This means AF, electronic aperture adjustment and electronic communication are not supported. Compatible lenses need to provide manual focusing together with manual aperture control or a suitable fixed aperture.

Native manual lenses can be mounted directly, while adapters open up a broader choice of vintage and cinema optics, including selected PL-mount, but check before.

This also changes how it is best used in a multicamera production. Focus and aperture cannot be adjusted electronically during recording, so the ILS works best as a locked-off or pre-focused option. Its small size makes it useful for unusual viewpoints, confined spaces, vehicle rigs and other positions that are difficult for larger models.

Focus Peaking and magnified Focus Assist are available when setting focus, while compatible remote functions can be used to control the camera itself.

The PRO is all about performance, MISSION 1 is slightly more simple, and the PRO ILS model changes the game with interchangeable lenses, which leads us to what you can capture with these camera.

MISSION 1 PRO ILS image supplied by GoPro

What are these cameras good for?

Just as we expect from a long history of HERO cameras, the new range promises to handle a wide range of content creation, from high-resolution video to long exposures and fast action. This is supported by the lightweight, pocketable and waterproof (or weather-resistant) design, which allows them to handle extreme conditions.

Content options across the range include:

Video and Cinematic Footage

• 8K video for detailed results and reframing in post
• 8K or 4K slow motion for stylised action and movement (model dependent)
• Open Gate recording for full one-inch sensor capture using 8K 4:3 video
• HDR video for improved highlight and shadow detail
• Underwater capture for content from below the surface without additional housing (model dependent)
• Supports both 8-bit and 10-bit colour video

Slow Motion and Action sequences

• High frame rate recording for sports and fast subjects
• Burst slow motion for ultra-slow playback sequences
• Stabilised footage using in-camera processing

Time-Based and Creative Modes

• Time lapse and night lapse for scenes that change over time
• Star trails and long exposure night photography
• Creative light painting effects and vehicle light trails

Stills Photography

• All three capture 50MP RAW stills, with burst shooting and high-resolution frame grabs available for fast action.
• The interchangeable-lens version adds greater control over perspective and depth of field, but focus and aperture are manual. This makes it particularly suited to pre-focused scenes, remote positions and controlled setups rather than unpredictable action.

Audio and Content Creation

• Built-in multi-microphone recording for stereo sound
• Wireless audio support via Bluetooth
• Support for 24-Bit PCM and 32-Bit Float to reduce clipping
• Suitable for interviews, vlogging and on-location capture

Content ideas

• Travel and holiday filming
• Underwater and outdoor shooting
• Action and adventure footage
• Mounted and remote camera setups
• Multi-camera productions using timecode sync

Camera side view

Connectivity and Control

Wireless connectivity is built into these models, allowing control and media handling without physical connections.

Camera body connectivity includes:

1. Wi-Fi 6 for fast data transfer and a stable connection
2. Bluetooth 5.3 for accessory pairing and audio
3. USB-C Port
4. GPS
5. Compatibility with the GoPro Quik app for remote control and file management
6. Automatic cloud backup when combined with a GoPro subscription

These support location shooting and post-capture workflows, covering all of the different types of shooting mentioned earlier, including scheduled capture if you’re away while the camera records.

Voice control is also supported, allowing basic commands to be triggered without physical interaction. Functions include start and stop recording, mode switching and hands-free control, which is particularly useful when the camera is mounted or out of reach.

Next, let’s explore the hardware and mount options in more detail.

MISSION 1 PRO ILS image supplied by GoPro

What is the Mounting system?

The series offers a flexible mounting system, with options built into the camera body enabling connection with an array of action camera accessories.

Each model includes:

• Integrated mounting fingers for direct attachment
• A 1/4-20 thread for tripods and commonplace accessories
• Support for magnetic latch mounting (via compatible accessories)

This enables the body to be used for numerous setups, from handheld to rigs and car mounts, which is a key benefit of the ecosystem.

But when and in which conditions can it be used?

MISSION 1 PRO ILS image supplied by GoPro

Environmental Performance

The range is designed for operation across a variety of environments and in harsh conditions.

These include:

• Operating temperature range from -20°C to 45°C, covering arctic to desert conditions
• Updated 2150mAh Enduro 2 GoPro battery with fast charging to 80% in approx. 27 min (PPS charger) or 1 hour from empty to fully charged
• Extended runtime for longer sessions without the need for recharging

GoPro Wireless Mic System

Along with the new range, GoPro is introducing a Wireless Mic System, which is expected to work seamlessly with this series as as well as other cameras and smartphones.

Key GoPro Wireless Mic features include:

• Dual compact transmitters weighing approximately 10g each
• 24-bit / 48kHz audio recording
• Dynamic noise reduction for clearer voice capture
• Safety track recording at -6dB to prevent clipping
• Up to 150m wireless range
• Around 6.5 hours of runtime per transmitter, with additional charges via the case

With an anticipated launch date of 28 May, the range reinvents GoPro cameras, bringing compact cinematic capabilities into a more advanced compact category. We’re looking forward to seeing how creators put these models to use.

You can register your interest prior to launch on each of our pages:

1. MISSION 1 PRO
2. MISSION 1
3. MISSION 1 PRO ILS

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By Nick Dautlich on 22/04/2026

Nick Dautlich

Senior Content Writer and Product Reviewer

Nick Dautlich is the Senior Content Writer and Product Reviewer at Park Cameras, with over 15 years of photography experience. A Sony Imaging Professional and expert reviewer, Nick has worked with major brands such as Canon, Sony and Nikon. His work is also featured on Vanguard World UK’s website, Capture Landscapes, and Shutter Evolve. Nick’s photography includes National Trust projects and magazine covers and he is passionate about landscapes and storytelling. Nick also enjoys hiking and teaching his children about nature. Learn more on his profile page.