The Max Lens Mod 2 provides an impressive field of view that’s 36% wider than what the HERO 12 Black or HERO 13 Black can achieve on their own.
Designed specifically for these two models, it offers the widest FOV available at 4K resolution and 60fps from a single camera.
In this article, you will learn the features, benefits, and performance of the Hero 12 Max Lens Mod 2.0 to help you determine whether it’s a worthwhile addition to your gear.
Get ready to revolutionize your GoPro experience!
What is The GoPro Hero 12 Max Lens Mod 2.0
The Max Lens Mod 2.0 is a lens attachment for the Hero 12 Black, replacing the built-in lens to offer a 177-degree FOV. It also works with the Hero 13 Black.
This provides a 36% wider view for widescreen video and 48% taller for vertical video compared to the original Max Lens Mod 1.0.
- 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
What I like the most is that The Max Lens Mod 2.0 adds a level of stabilization to the video with Max HyperSmooth, which allows for 360-degree horizon lock for all the digital lenses on the Hero 12 Black. This means that no matter how you tilt or spin the camera, the horizon will always stay level.
The Max Lens Mod 2.0 supports up to 1080p resolution at 120 fps for slow-motion capture, and it features a new hydrophobic optical coating to help shed water droplets from the lens surface. GoPro also claims that the lens is twice as scratch-resistant as the original model.
Also it forms a part of a GoPro Hero 12 Creator Kit, that is made specially for the content-creators who aims for quality in their filming.
Pros and Cons
In this section, I’ll explain you why do I like GoPro Hero 12 Lens Mod and what are its drawbacks.
Pros
Expansive Field of View
The Max Lens Mod 2.0 allows you to capture more of your surroundings in a single shot, eliminating the need for dual-lens 360-degree cameras or stitching multiple images. Ideal for immersive scenes like landscapes, sports, and travel videos.
Multiple Field-of-View Settings
Versatility is at the core of the Hero 12 Max Lens Mod 2.0. It offers three distinct field-of-view settings to cater to various shooting scenarios. The “Max Wide” setting captures expansive scenes, “Max SuperView” adds a dynamic and immersive perspective, while “Max HyperView” lets you customize your view based on your creative vision. This flexibility empowers you to adapt your camera to different situations and achieve the desired visual impact.
Dynamic Perspective
The wide-angle lens adds a dynamic and dramatic perspective to your footage, making it more engaging and visually captivating.
Enhanced Stabilization
It boosts the already impressive image stabilization of the Hero 12 Black, ensuring smooth and steady footage in challenging conditions, including high-speed action, low light, and handheld shooting.
Horizon Lock
The Horizon Lock feature maintains a professional and consistent look in your videos, regardless of camera movement.
Slow-Motion Capture
For those moments that demand artistic and dramatic flair, the Hero 12 Max Lens Mod 2.0 supports high-quality slow-motion recording. With the ability to record at up to 1080p resolution and an impressive 120 frames per second, you can create stunning slow-motion sequences that emphasize the smallest details and intricacies of your subject matter.
Exceptional Durability
GoPro understands the demands of action-packed adventures. That’s why the Hero 12 Max Lens Mod 2.0 is designed to be twice as scratch-resistant as its predecessor. This heightened durability means you can confidently use your camera in rugged environments without worrying about the wear and tear that often accompanies intense activities.
Hydrophobic Lens Coating
Even in challenging weather conditions, the Hero 12 Max Lens Mod 2.0 maintains its optical clarity thanks to a new hydrophobic coating. This innovative technology repels water droplets from the lens surface, ensuring that your shots remain sharp and pristine, regardless of rain, splashes, or underwater exploration. It’s the perfect solution for surfing, skiing and snowboarding.
Cons of the Max Lens Mod 2.0
Distortion and Vignetting
The extreme wide-angle view of the Max Lens Mod 2.0 can introduce distortion and vignetting, leading to a fish-eye effect where straight lines may appear curved, and objects at the frame’s edges may look stretched or distorted.
Limited Video Options
This lens mod restricts certain video features on the Hero 12 Black, such as HDR video, GP-Log, and vertical video aspect ratio support. These features are only accessible with the built-in lens or without any lens modification, requiring a choice between a wider field of view and advanced video settings.
FAQ Answered
Below are some FAQs I answer for you:
What is the difference between Max Lens Mod 2.0 and Max Lens Mod 1.0?
Max Lens Mod 2.0 is compatible with HERO 12 Black and offers the same great stabilization as the previous version while adding the following features:
- Ability to record video in 4K/60fps and 1080p/120fps
- A wider, 174° field of view
- Max Night Effects
- 4K Max TimeWarp
- Available in Pro or Easy Controls
Max Lens Mod 1.0 is compatible with HERO 11/10/9 Black and offers the following features:
- Ability to record video in 2.7K/60fps and 1080p/120fps
- A wide, 155° field of view
- Max HyperSmooth
- Max TimeWarp
- Horizon Lock
Max Lens Mod 1.0
- Max HyperSmooth for unbreakable video stabilization up to 2.7K60
- Ultra-wide angle 155° FOV for enhanced perspective and improved depth of field
- Horizon lock keeps your videos on the horizontal axis, even if your camera rotates a...
How do I install and remove the Max Lens Mod 2.0?
To install the Max Lens Mod 2.0, you need to first remove the protective lens cover from your HERO12 Black by twisting it counterclockwise and pulling it off. Then, align the Max Lens Mod 2.0 with the camera lens and twist it clockwise until it locks in place. To remove the ax Lens Mod 2.0, you need to twist it counterclockwise and pull it off.
How do I enable and change the settings of the Max Lens Mod 2.0?
You can enable and change the settings of the Max Lens Mod 2.0 using either your camera or the GoPro Quik app on your smartphone.
To enable the Max Lens Mod 2.0 with your camera, you need to swipe down to view the Dashboard, tap the Setup Max Lens Icon, and select Max Lens Mod 2.0. To change the settings of the Max Lens Mod 2.0 with your camera, you need to swipe down, swipe left, select Preferences, scroll down to Mods, select Max Lens Mod, and choose your preferred options.
To enable and change the settings of the Max Lens Mod 2.0 with GoPro Quik, you need to open the app, select Settings, tap None next to Max Lens Mod, and select Max Lens 2.0. You can also adjust other settings such as field of view, resolution, frame rate, and time-lapse mode using GoPro Quik.
Learn more on GoPro lenses:
- Best GoPro Lens: Protective / Macro / ND Filter
- GoPro Hero 12 Lenses Compared (MAX & Macro)
- GoPro Max Lens Mod 1.0
Is It Worth Buying?
In my opinion, the Max Lens Mod 2.0 is not a must-have accessory for every GoPro user, but it can be a fun and useful addition for those who want to experiment with different angles and views.
It can be a good investment if you plan to use your GoPro for specific purposes or scenarios where a wider FOV can make a difference. For instance, if you’re into filming skiing races like I am, and need to capture multiple skiers at once, it can be especially useful.
But for general use, you’ll be completely fine with your GoPro as it already offers a reasonably wide field of view.
Thanks for reading!
I hope this guide helped you learn about the GoPro Hero 12 Max Lens Mod 2.0 🙂
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