Released on September 13, 2023, the GoPro Hero 12 Black is now available for purchase on GoPro’s official website and Amazon.

This camera boasts significant improvements but also lacks one important feature (spoiler alert: it’s GPS).

Having it right in front of me, I’m here to give you my personal GoPro Hero 12 Black review.

In this article, I’ll take a closer look at the GoPro Hero 12 Black, assessing its performance and features, and you’ll receive my honest opinion on whether it’s truly worth the upgrade.

GoPro HERO12 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video, 27MP Photos, HDR, 1/1.9" Image Sensor, Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
  • High Dynamic Range Video plus Photo: HERO12 Black takes its best-in-class image...
  • Unbelieveable Image Quality: With 5.3K video that gives you 91% more resolution than...
  • Emmy Award- Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization: HyperSmooth continues to set the...

QUICK TAKE

  • GoPro Hero 12 Black offers 5.3K video resolution for stunning clarity
  • Extended battery life allows up to 2.5 hours of recording at lower resolutions
  • New HyperSmooth 6.0 provides advanced stabilization for smooth footage
  • Vertical capture mode caters to social media content creation
  • Lacks GPS

GoPro Hero 12 Tutorial


If you’ve just purchased a new GoPro Hero 12, watch my tutorial for setup instructions.:

GoPro Hero 12 Black: What’s New?


gopro hero 12 waterproof

Here are its exciting new features:

  1. Extended Battery Life: The Hero 12 Black boasts an impressive battery upgrade, providing up to 2.5 hours of uninterrupted recording at lower resolutions.
  2. Enhanced Stabilization: Building on GoPro’s Emmy-award-winning technology, the Hero 12 Black introduces HyperSmooth 6.0, ensuring even smoother footage. It also features horizon lock for stable videos during spins and maneuvers.
  3. Professional Editing Tools: Designed for content creators, the camera offers new editing tools to elevate your video production.
  4. Vertical Capture Mode: Stay on-trend with a vertical capture mode, tailor-made for social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels.
  5. Super Wide-Angle Video: With the Max Lens 2.0 attachment, you can access a super wide-angle video mode for capturing more of the action in a single shot.
  6. Bluetooth Audio Support: The Hero 12 Back features new Bluetooth audio support for AirPods + other Bluetooth audio devices for wireless sound recording and voice control.

On the other hand, for the first time since 2015, the GoPro HERO 12 Black breaks the mold as a flagship camera by not including GPS capabilities.

Many users, myself included, find this very disappointing. I really appreciated this function on the previous models, as it allowed me to check my geolocation and speed while skiing with my friends.

GoPro Hero 12 Release Dates

The GoPro Hero 12 was released on September 13, 2023. Normally GoPro releases one model per year, check out all the GoPro release dates (for all the models) and expected release date for the GoPro Hero 13.

 

 Specs Table


Here’s a specs table for the GoPro Hero 12 Black:

GoPro Hero 12 BlackSpecifications
Dimensions (W x H x D) (mm)71.8 W x 50.8 H x 33.6 D (mm)
Weight (Camera w/Mounting Fingers + Embedded Battery)154g (Camera w/Mounting Fingers + Battery)

121g (Without Battery)
Battery Specs1720mAh Enduro Battery
Waterproof Depth10m (33ft) without protective housing

60m (196ft) with protective housing
System ProcessorGP2
Image Sensor1/1.9" CMOS
Field of View (FOV)156° in 8:7 aspect ratio
Video Resolutions & Frame Rates5.3K (8:7) 30/25/24 FPS
5.3K (16:9) 60/50/30/25/24 FPS
4K (8:7) 60/50/30/25/24 FPS
4K (9:16) 60/50/30/25 FPS
4K (16:9) 120/100/60/50/30/25/24 FPS
2.7K (4:3) 120/100/60/50 FPS
2.7K (16:9) 240/200 FPS
1080 (9:16) 60/50/30/25 FPS
1080P (16:9) 240/200/120/100/60/50/30/25/24 FPS
Max Photo Resolution27.13MP (5568x4872)
Photo Frame-Grabs from Video24.69MP from (8:7) 5.3K Video
Time LapseIncludes TimeWarp, Star Trails, Light Painting, and more
Microphones3-Mics
Audio Mic Input3.5mm Audio Mic Input with Media Mod for Hero12 Black or Pro 3.5 Mic Adapter (Sold Separately)
Wireless ConnectivityWi-Fi + Bluetooth
Voice ControlYes
MicroSD Card RecommendationMicroSD card rating V30 or UHS-3 recommended
StabilizationHypersmooth 6.0

Please note that some specs may have additional details not included in this table, so it’s essential to refer to the product manual or official documentation for comprehensive information.

 

GoPro Hero 12 Review 


In this section, we’ll go into details and explore all the main specs and features of the GoPro Hero 12:

Design

The GoPro Hero 12 Black sports a design reminiscent of the Hero 10 and 11 models, but it brings some subtle yet exciting changes.

It maintains a sleek rectangular shape with a robust, rubberized body that’s waterproof up to 10 meters without the need for an additional case.

On the rear, you’ll find a user-friendly 2.27-inch touchscreen, and on the front, a handy 1.4-inch color display. This front display keeps you informed about vital information like battery level, recording time, mode, and even offers a live preview of your footage.

Plus, you have the flexibility to customize the front display to your liking or turn it off when not needed.gopro hero 12 sd card

The GoPro Hero 12 Black is thoughtfully designed with user-friendliness in mind.

It features three intuitive buttons: a power/mode button on the left side, a shutter button on the top, and a settings button on the right side. The settings button also serves the purpose of seamlessly switching between the front and rear screens.

On the camera’s right side, concealed by a removable door, you’ll find a USB-C port and a microSD card slot. Should you desire additional functionality, the door can be swapped out for an optional media mod, which adds a microphone, HDMI port, and cold shoe mounts for attaching accessories.

This camera offers versatility with its dual mounting points. The bottom mount is compatible with standard GoPro accessories such as tripods, selfie sticks, and chest mounts, making it easy to capture your adventures from various angles.

What I found new and exciting is the side mount, which opens up possibilities for horizontal or vertical attachment to different surfaces. This feature is especially handy for vlogging, timelapses, or adding creative flair to your shots.

Performance

The GoPro Hero 12 Black is powered by the GP2 processor, a significant leap forward in speed and efficiency compared to its predecessors.

This camera can impressively record video in resolutions up to 5.3K at a smooth 60 frames per second, or opt for breathtaking 4K video at a remarkable 120 fps. In the realm of photography, it can snap stunning stills of up to 23 megapixels in both RAW and JPEG formats.

The camera presents an array of modes and features to elevate your videos and photos, including:

  • HyperSmooth 6.0: The latest iteration and my favorite feature: new electronic image stabilization system. It significantly reduces camera shake, resulting in ultra-smooth footage. You have the flexibility to choose from different levels of stabilization: off, standard, high, or boost. Moreover, you can enable horizon leveling, which keeps your videos perfectly level even if you tilt or rotate the camera.

hypersmooth 6.0

  • TimeWarp 3.0: GoPro’s  Hero 12 timelapse mode, allowing you to record sped-up videos of your activities. Customize the speed of your timelapse, ranging from 2x to 30x, or let the camera decide based on your movement with auto mode. Easily switch to real-time mode by tapping the screen or pressing the shutter button.
  • SuperPhoto: This intelligent photo mode automatically applies HDR, noise reduction, and local tone mapping to your photos, ensuring vibrant and clear results. You can take control with ProTune, allowing you to manually adjust settings such as white balance, ISO, sharpness, and more.
  • LiveBurst: Capture 1.5 seconds of video both before and after pressing the shutter button. This feature enables you to select the best frame from the video as your photo or save the entire video clip.
  • Night Photo: Designed for low-light conditions, this mode allows you to take photos with longer exposure times. You can choose to use a tripod or enable HyperSmooth to minimize blur, ensuring your night shots are crisp and captivating. Find more information on GoPro Hero 12 low light settings>>> 

Video Quality

The GoPro Hero 12 Black is your gateway to exceptional video quality, offering high resolutions, frame rates, dynamic range, and color accuracy. It adapts to various shooting scenarios, from action-packed adventures to picturesque landscapes.

Here are some standout features that enhance your video quality:

  • 5.3K Video: Immerse yourself in stunning detail with 5.3K resolution, capable of recording at up to 60 frames per second. This high-resolution option is a must for those who demand the ultimate clarity in their footage.
  • 4K Slow-Mo: For slow-motion enthusiasts, the GoPro Hero 12 Black can capture mesmerizing 4K slow-motion videos at an impressive 120 frames per second. This feature brings a cinematic touch to your content, allowing for smooth and dramatic slow-motion effects.
  • HyperSmooth 6.0: Building on GoPro’s reputation for exceptional image stabilization, the sixth iteration of HyperSmooth ensures your videos remain steady even during high-speed activities. You have the flexibility to choose from various stabilization levels to suit your shooting style.
  • Horizon Leveling: Keep your shots perfectly straight, even when you’re on the move. The Hero 12 Black’s horizon leveling feature automatically adjusts the camera’s orientation, ensuring your videos maintain a polished and professional look.
  • SuperPhoto: When it comes to photography, the SuperPhoto mode enhances your images with HDR, noise reduction, and local tone mapping. This mode is perfect for capturing vibrant and detailed photos, regardless of the lighting conditions.
GoPro HERO12 Black - Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60 Ultra HD Video, 27MP Photos, HDR, 1/1.9" Image Sensor, Live Streaming, Webcam, Stabilization
  • High Dynamic Range Video plus Photo: HERO12 Black takes its best-in-class image...
  • Unbelieveable Image Quality: With 5.3K video that gives you 91% more resolution than...
  • Emmy Award- Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization: HyperSmooth continues to set the...

Battery Life

Finally, we have a really good battery that won’t let you down, even in harsh weather conditions. I’m more than happy to take my new Hero 12 skiing with friends without worrying about it dying quickly.

Equipped with a removable 1720mAh Enduro battery, this camera allows you to capture your adventures for longer periods without the need for constant recharging.

You can expect up to 70 minutes of continuous recording at 5.3K60, over 95 minutes at 5.3K30, or an impressive 155 minutes at 1080p30, all while benefiting from HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization.

gopro hero 12 battery life

Accessories & Mods

The GoPro Hero 12 Black is designed to be highly adaptable. It’s compatible with a range of accessories and mods, including the Max Lens Mod 2.0, Volta, Media Mod, The Remote, and more.

These accessories expand the camera’s capabilities, whether you’re looking to enhance your audio, extend your battery life, or achieve unique shooting angles.

For those who want a quik solution and are ready to invest in quality of their future videos I highly recommend a Creator Edition.

best gopro hero 12 accessories

GoPro Hero 12 Creator Edition

GoPro HERO12 Black Creator Edition - Includes HERO12 Black , Volta (Battery Grip, Tripod, Remote), Media Mod, Light Mod, Enduro Battery, and Carrying Case
  • All-in-One Creative Solution: The HERO12 Black Creator Edition combines HERO12 Black...
  • All-Day Capture plus Enduro Battery: The HERO12 Black Creator Edition combines HERO12...
  • High Dynamic Range Video plus Photo: The HERO12 Black Creator Edition takes its...

The GoPro HERO 12 Black Creator Edition is a comprehensive creative package that combines the HERO12 Black with essential mounts and accessories, enabling creators to craft their stories right out of the box.

It is bundled with the Volta, Media Mod, and Light Mod, creating a cohesive and powerful creative solution for producing pro-quality footage with extensive versatility in capturing varied photos and videos, all packed in a lightweight design for all-day comfort during production.

With the advanced Enduro battery and the Volta grip, it offers a substantial total power of 6620mAh, delivering over 35% more runtime and over 5 hours of continuous 4K30 recording, suitable for capturing a full day of clips.

It is especially adept in cold weather, ensuring optimal performance during winter sports and activities.

The Creator Edition enhances image quality with 5.3K video, providing 91% more resolution than 4K and a staggering 665% more than 1080p. It employs High Dynamic Range (HDR) in both videos and photos, ensuring detailed, true-to-life color in diverse lighting conditions.

The package includes several accessories like the carrying case, Enduro Rechargeable Battery, mounts, USB-C Cable, Volta components, Media Mod, and Light Mod, creating an all-encompassing solution for all creative needs.

But do you really need GoPro Creator Kit? Find the answer in the following article: GoPro Creator Kit: Should You Get It?

Max Lens Mod 2.0

SPECIAL SALE
GoPro Max Lens Mod 2.0 (HERO12 Black) - Official GoPro Accessory, Black
  • The must-have upgrade for HERO12 Black that transforms it into the ultimate POV...
  • Ultra wide-angle digital lens options up to a 177° field of view at stunning 4K60...
  • Max HyperSmooth delivers unbreakable video stabilization in all video modes

The Max Lens Mod 2.0 stands as a quintessential upgrade for the HERO 12 Black, elevating the camera’s capabilities and transforming it into a premier POV recording device, ideal for documenting every nuance of any adventure.

This modification offers extraordinarily wide-angle digital lens choices, extending up to a 177° field of view at a breathtaking 4K60 resolution—heralding the most expansive visual captures available in the HERO camera series.

Media Mod

GoPro Media Mod (HERO13 Black/HERO12 Black/HERO11 Black/HERO10 Black/HERO9 Black) - Official GoPro Accessory
  • Built-in directional mic highlights voice audio and reduces ambient noise
  • Tough, weather-resistant construction withstands the elements
  • 2 cold-shoe mounts to attach your favorite lights, mics or LCD screens

The Media Mod is a versatile accessory designed to enhance audio and mounting options for GoPro users. It features a built-in directional mic that emphasizes voice audio and minimizes ambient noise, ensuring clear sound capture. Its robust, weather-resistant construction can endure various elements, making it ideal for outdoor use.

The mod is equipped with two cold-shoe mounts, allowing users to attach lights, mics, or LCD screens as needed, and a 3.5mm mic port for connecting an external microphone for superior audio. Additionally, an HDMI-out port is available for monitoring or playing back footage. 

The Remote

SPECIAL SALE
GoPro The Remote - Official GoPro Accessory
  • Bluetooth Low Energy improves the battery life of both The Remote and the camera that...
  • Large high-resolution screen makes it easy to check camera status
  • Large tactile buttons give you easy control of camera functions

The Remote is a highly efficient and user-friendly accessory for GoPro, designed with Bluetooth Low Energy to enhance the battery life of both the remote and the connected camera and ensure improved pairing compared to previous models.

It boasts a large, high-resolution screen for effortless camera status checks and large tactile buttons for easy control of camera functions.

Its rugged, waterproof design can be worn, mounted, and is submersible up to 16ft, making it suitable for various environments and weather conditions.

With a range of up to 196ft in optimal conditions, it can control up to five cameras simultaneously. It comes with a convenient wrist strap, allowing attachment to grips, handlebars, and gear, enhancing its versatility and usability in multiple scenarios.

Volta

SPECIAL SALE
GoPro Volta - Official GoPro Accessory
  • Built-in 4900 mAh battery lets you capture a full day of activities by combining with...
  • Integrated camera buttons give you easy one-handed control of your camera: power on...
  • Flip-out tripod legs and additional battery power provide a stable shooting platform...

GoPro Volta is a versatile accessory equipped with a built-in 4900 mAh battery, designed to triple your camera’s standard battery life, allowing you to capture a full day of activities.

It features integrated camera buttons enabling effortless one-handed control of your camera’s power, capture, and mode-switching functions.

The device has flip-out tripod legs and additional battery power, offering a stable platform and extended battery life for prolonged time-lapse events. It serves as a wireless remote control for your camera when mounted, with a range of up to 98ft.

The weather-resistant construction, complete with a specially designed cable/door seal, ensures protection against water splashes, snow, and rain. LED indicators allow for quick checks on battery life and camera mode, and its retractable mounting fingers facilitate easy attachment to GoPro backpack straps and other mounts, enhancing capture versatility and mountable power.

What SD Card do you need for your new GoPro?

Check out the following articles:

New Professional Editing Tools

GoPro has unveiled a range of cutting-edge tools designed to cater to both professional videographers and casual users alike. For those in the world of video editing, the new GoPro Hero 12 Black offers a suite of features that simplify the process.

Timecode syncing is now available when using multiple cameras, enhancing the precision of multi-camera shoots. Furthermore, the camera boasts Bluetooth support for external audio devices like airpods, ensuring high-quality sound capture.

Similar to its predecessor, the Hero 11 Black, the Hero 12 Black can automatically upload recorded video footage to the cloud, streamlining the post-production workflow.

Discover the best editing tools for GoPro videos: Best GoPro Video Editing Softwares

gopro hero 12 max lens mod 2.0

One standout addition to the Hero 12 Black is the Max Lens Mod 2.0 Accessory, introducing an expansive 177-degree field of view at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second. This wide-angle lens brings a new “Hyperview” setting that allows for the creation of more immersive action shots, a feature bound to be cherished by professionals.

Notably, the Hero 12 Black introduces a vertical video mode that is a boon for social media content creators. Whether you’re looking to craft captivating TikTok videos or adapt your horizontal footage seamlessly for platforms like YouTube and TikTok, this camera’s vertical video capability provides versatility for content creators.

Adding to its impressive arsenal, the Hero 12 Black is equipped with an extra-large 8:7 sensor, setting the stage for groundbreaking video capture. With these advanced tools and more, this GoPro camera offers an unparalleled potential to redefine action camera videography, catering to the demands of professionals and creative enthusiasts alike.

 

Worth An Upgrade?


The GoPro Hero 12 Black represents a valuable investment that promises to elevate your videography to new heights, so it’s worth buying if you’ll use it professionally.

For occasional uses, I will recommend you one of the previous models, like Hero 11 or 10, as they cost less, are a bit less powerful, but if you use it only once in a while, you might not feel any difference.

Check out my full comparison of the two latest GoPro cameras to see why the Hero 11 isn’t inferior: GoPro Hero 12 vs GoPro Hero 11: Worth the Upgrade?

My verdict is clear: it’s definitely worth the upgrade if you’re moving on from the Hero 7 or an earlier model.

The Hero 12 boasts improved battery life and is designed to withstand extremely cold conditions, making it a great option for skiers and snowboarders like me.

However, its lack of GPS means it might not be the ideal choice for downhill enthusiasts and bikers who rely on tracking their routes.

 

Thanks for reading! 🙏

I hope this guide helped you learn all you need to know about the new GoPro Hero 12 Black action camera 🙂

 

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