GoPro Hero 12: A Closer Look at the Latest Action Camera

GoPro is synonymous with action cameras, much like Kleenex is with tissues. Many people, even those with GoPro knockoffs, refer to any small camera as their “GoPro.” While GoPro continues to dominate the market, its competitors such as DJI and Insta360 are pushing the boundaries of action cameras with innovative features like magnetic mounting systems, larger sensors, and simpler menus.

Despite the competition, when it comes to choosing a small camera to document my adventures, I always reach for my trusted GoPro. The recently launched GoPro Hero 12 reaffirms why it remains my go-to camera. It retains all the features that made the previous Hero line great while offering improvements.

Incremental Improvements

Visually, the Hero 12 Black appears almost identical to its predecessor, the Hero 11 Black, with the exception of a blue number on the side and a bit of blue speckling on the outer skin. The similarities extend beyond the physical appearance as the Hero 12 utilizes the same 8:7 aspect ratio sensor and GP2 processor found in the Hero 11. This uniformity ensures that all your existing accessories, lens filters, mods, and add-ons are compatible with the Hero 12.

While this might make it a tough sell for some, there are notable new features in the Hero 12 that make it a worthwhile upgrade. These include improved battery life, reduced overheating issues, 10-bit Log video capability, timecode syncing, and a standard tripod mount. The fact that the Hero 12 is the first model in the series that has never overheated during my shooting sessions is a significant accomplishment, especially when shooting in demanding modes like 5.3K 30p or 4K 120p.

Image: GoPro Hero 12 Black.

Credit: Photograph by GoPro

In terms of battery life, the Hero 12 surpasses its predecessors, lasting significantly longer. This improvement becomes evident when shooting in modes that put strain on the camera, such as 4K 120p. Another noteworthy change is the removal of the GPS feature, a decision made by GoPro due to less than 1 percent of users utilizing it. Although this may have disappointed some, it wouldn’t be surprising to see the GPS features integrated into a future version of the GoPro remote, following the example set by DJI and Insta360.

GoPro Hero 12: The Go-To Camera

While the GoPro market remains highly competitive, the Hero 12’s enhancements undoubtedly make it a top contender. With its reliability, improved performance, and compatibility with existing accessories, the Hero 12 is a worthwhile investment for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Whether you’re capturing thrilling sports footage or documenting your everyday life, the Hero 12 is an excellent choice to ensure you never miss a moment.