GoPro Hero 12 vs GoPro Hero 10: Worth the Upgrade?

The Hero 10 is like the older sibling of the Hero 12, just a few years apart. I’ve been comparing the GoPro Hero 12 vs Hero 10, thinking about whether the upgrade is worth it, considering their similarities.

Now I’m ready to share my insights with you.

In this article, you’ll find a detailed comparison and my honest opinion on whether upgrading to the Hero 12 is essential or if the reliable Hero 10 is still a good choice.

GoPro Hero 12 vs GoPro Hero 10: Quick Specs Comparison

First and foremost, let’s compare the specs of the GoPro Hero 12 vs the GoPro Hero 10. Have a look at the following specs comparison table:

GoPro Hero 12 Review

The GoPro Hero 12 redefines the limits of action camera technology, setting an unprecedented standard for image and video quality.

With a larger sensor, higher resolution, and 10-bit video recording, it delivers visuals that are nothing short of extraordinary. The addition of HDR support brings vibrant colors and breathtaking contrast to your shots, regardless of the lighting conditions.

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Moreover, advanced stabilization (HyperSmooth 6.0) and horizon leveling ensure your footage remains remarkably steady, even in the most intense action sequences.

With Bluetooth audio support for seamless audio integration and timecode sync for effortless multi-camera coordination, the Hero 12 is a versatile powerhouse designed to elevate your adventure-capturing game to new heights.

Find the best SD cards for Hero 12 and tips on how to choose them:

• 7 Best SD Cards for GoPro HERO 12
• GoPro HERO 12 SD Card Size Recommendations

If you want to learn how to use GoPro Hero 12, watch my tutorial:

 

GoPro Hero 10 Review

The GoPro Hero 10 shines with its ability to record in 5.3K at 60 fps or 4K at 120 fps, delivering superb video quality. It’s equipped with the same processor, water resistance, cloud connectivity, and enduring battery life found in the Hero 12.

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With HyperSmooth 4.0, you can rely on its steady stabilization. While it may not include certain Hero 12 features like 10-bit recording and timecode sync, the Hero 10 remains an excellent option for capturing adventures across diverse conditions.

Find the best SD cards for Hero 10 and tips on how to choose them:

• 15 Best SD Cards for GoPro Hero 10
• GoPro HERO 10 SD Card Size Recommendations

Detailed Comparison

In this comprehensive comparison, I’ll give you more details about the two cameras:

Processor

Both cameras are powered by the same GP2 processor, enabling them to record videos at 5.3K/60 fps or 4K/120 fps. The GP2 processor ensures faster processing, improved image quality, and enhanced intelligence.

However, the Hero 12 optimizes the GP2 more effectively, supporting 10-bit video recording, HDR for both photos and videos, Bluetooth audio compatibility, and timecode synchronization—features notably absent on the Hero 10 despite sharing the same processor.

Sensor Size

The Hero 12 boasts a larger sensor, capturing more detail and light in every shot. With its 27MP sensor and 8:7 aspect ratio, it outshines the Hero 10’s 23.6MP sensor with a 16:9 aspect ratio.

The Hero 12’s larger sensor also allows for a broader field of view (FOV), particularly when paired with the Max Lens Mod accessory.

Still Images

Both cameras offer various still image modes and formats, including JPEG, RAW, HDR, SuperPhoto, Burst, Time Lapse, and Night Lapse.

However, the Hero 12 excels with higher resolution still images, up to 27MP compared to the Hero 10’s 23MP. It supports HDR for photos, resulting in enhanced color and contrast.

The Hero 12 can even extract photos from video screengrabs, producing images of up to 24.7MP in an 8:7 aspect ratio, while the Hero 10’s screengrabs are limited to 19.6MP in a 16:9 aspect ratio.

Video Bit-Rate

The Hero 12 offers a higher video bit-rate compared to the Hero 10, enabling it to capture more data and higher-quality frames. Supporting 10-bit video recording, the Hero 12 delivers greater color depth and dynamic range than the Hero 10’s 8-bit video.

This results in more lifelike and vibrant videos, especially in high-contrast settings. The Hero 12 also includes HDR video support, further enhancing video color and contrast.

HyperSmooth Stabilization

Both the Hero 12 and Hero 10 offer HyperSmooth stabilization, but with some distinctions. The Hero 12 features HyperSmooth 6.0, which takes stabilization to the next level, ensuring ultra-smooth footage, even in the most demanding scenarios

Meanwhile, the Hero 10 offers reliable HyperSmooth 4.0, delivering impressive stabilization but not quite matching the Hero 12’s prowess.

Horizon Leveling

Both cameras incorporate built-in horizon leveling to ensure level and straight videos, even when the camera is tilted or rotated. The Hero 12 boasts superior horizon leveling capabilities, with the ability to level up to 45° in all modes, compared to the Hero 10’s 27°.

Moreover, the Hero 12 supports horizon leveling with the Max Lens Mod accessory, enabling up to 360° leveling in select modes—a feature absent on the Hero 10.

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The Max Lens Mod 2.0 emerges as a fundamental enhancement for the HERO 12 Black, amplifying the camera’s potentials and morphing it into a superior POV capturing instrument, perfectly suited for recording every detail of each adventure.

This modification provides exceptionally broad-angle digital lens options, spanning up to a 177° field of view while maintaining an impressive 4K60 resolution—introducing the widest visual captures attainable in the HERO camera line.

Field of View (with Max Lens Mod)

While both cameras offer various field of view (FOV) options, the Hero 12 excels, particularly when paired with the Max Lens Mod accessory.

This optional attachment provides a wider and more immersive FOV, along with enhanced stabilization and horizon leveling. With the Max Lens Mod, the Hero 12 can achieve up to 177° FOV in 4K/60p mode, surpassing the Hero 10’s 155° FOV in 2.7K/60p mode.

Battery Life

Let’s talk about something crucial when you’re out there capturing those unforgettable moments – battery life! It’s a factor that can make or break your recording adventures with the GoPro Hero 12 and GoPro Hero 10.

Both these cameras are powered by the same trusty 1720mAh lithium-ion battery from GoPro, ensuring you’ve got the juice you need.

However, how long that juice lasts depends on what you’re up to. We’re talking video mode, resolution, frame rate, and other settings that you choose.

So, let’s break it down. According to GoPro’s official estimates, here’s what you can expect:

• 5.3K / 60fps: Hero 12 – 61 minutes, Hero 10 – 47 minutes
• 4K / 120fps: Hero 12 – 54 minutes, Hero 10 – 36 minutes
• 1080p / 240fps: Hero 12 – 64 minutes, Hero 10 – 50 minutes

Here’s the scoop: In most modes, the Hero 12 outshines the Hero 10 with its longer-lasting battery. Especially when you’re cranking up the resolution or frame rate, the Hero 12 proves its stamina.

But hey, don’t count out the Hero 10 just yet; it still holds its own with a respectable battery life of over an hour in most scenarios.

So, whether you’re team Hero 12 or team Hero 10, rest assured that both cameras have the endurance to keep up with your adventures.

The difference in battery life might not be a game-changer for everyone, depending on your shooting habits and preferences.

More on battery life of GoPro Hero 10>>>

Low-Light Performance

The Hero 12 excels in low-light conditions, thanks to its larger sensor size, higher resolution, and HDR support. These features allow it to capture more light, reduce noise, and enhance details in dark scenes.

The Hero 12 even offers a Night Lapse mode, creating stunning time-lapse videos in low-light conditions. On the other hand, the Hero 10 Black also offers quite superior low-light performance. But, if you compare the two, the Hero 12 Black stands out.

Bluetooth Audio Support

A notable feature of the Hero 12 is Bluetooth audio support, enabling connectivity with devices like AirPods for audio recording.

This functionality is particularly valuable for vlogging, podcasting, or narrating videos. In contrast, the Hero 10 lacks Bluetooth audio support, restricting audio input to its built-in microphones or external microphones connected via an adapter.

GoPro Hero 12 vs GoPro Hero 10: Worth the Upgrade?

Take my advice: for the everyday user with a Hero 10 already in hand, there’s no pressing need to spring for the Hero 12.

It’s $150 more expensive, and while it boasts additional features like 10-bit video, HDR capabilities, and enhanced performance, these may exceed the needs of general use.

For the professionals out there, the investment in the Hero 12 could be well justified, offering superior image quality, smoother stabilization, and a suite of advanced functions that could truly refine your craft.

I would recommend to keep an eye out for those special deals that might just put the Hero 12 within easier reach, without having to stretch your budget too far.

Cannot make up your mind?

Find more GoPro battles:

• GoPro Hero 13 vs GoPro Hero 10
• GoPro Hero 12 vs 11 vs 10
• GoPro Hero 12 vs GoPro Hero 11
• GoPro Hero 12 vs GoPro Hero 9
• GoPro Hero 12 vs GoPro Hero 8

Thanks for reading! 🙏

I hope this guide helped you learn about which GoPro is better for you – GoPro Hero 12 vs GoPro Hero 10 🙂

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