GoPro Hero12 Black Review
Table of Contents

“Why We Chose It
The GoPro Hero12 Black stands out as the top choice for video-centric creators looking to capture outdoor escapades, underwater exploits, and high-energy sports, while also catering to vlogging enthusiasts. With support for 5.3K60 and 4K120 capture, this camera delivers remarkably stable footage sans the need for a gimbal, offering the flexibility to be mounted virtually anywhere.
The 8:7 format sensor adds versatility by allowing the extraction of 16:9 and 9:16 video from the same clip. Enhanced versatility comes from optional accessories like the Media Mod cage and microphone, along with the ultra-wide Max Lens 2.0 mod. Notably, the Hero12 is waterproof up to 33 feet.
A Well-Known Set of Professional Controls
For experienced users, switching to the Pro Controls interface provides access to the camera’s full range of features. To activate this mode, just swipe down to bring up the menu, then swipe left to navigate to the second page where all the advanced settings are unlocked.
Streamlined Multi-Camera Syncing and Wireless Audio Integration
Syncing settings across multiple cameras is now easier, especially with the GoPro Hero12 Black Review, which introduces timecode sync functionality. The free-running timecode simplifies the editing process for multi-camera projects by removing the need to manually align clips on a multi-track timeline. Matching up cameras is straightforward; simply point each Hero12 at a QR code displayed in the Quik app.
Another new feature is wireless audio support. The GoPro Hero12 Black Review is compatible with true wireless earbuds that support the Hands-Free Profile (HFP) v1.8 and Headset Profile (HSP) v1.2 Bluetooth protocols. Once paired, the earbuds record audio to a separate track, enable voice commands for camera control, and allow you to listen to audio while reviewing clips on the camera.
GoPro Hero12 Black Review has provided a list of compatible earbuds, including Apple AirPods, Google Pixel Buds, Samsung Galaxy Buds, Jabra Elite, Bose QuietComfort, Beats by Dre Studio Buds, and Cardo Packtalk Black. However, some recommendations, like those for the Jabra Elite series, may be too general, so it’s advised to confirm Bluetooth profile compatibility with the manufacturer. Additionally, the Sabinitek SmartMike+ is the only wireless mic officially supported.

Hero12 Black: Accessories and Battery Performance
Similar to the Hero11 Black, the Hero12 uses GoPro’s Enduro battery. In my tests, the battery lasts a bit longer than its predecessor, providing just over an hour of 5.3K60 recording and around 80 minutes for 4K60. This is an improvement of about 10 minutes for both formats compared to the Hero11, but it may still fall short for a full day of filming. Extra Enduro batteries are available for $24.99.
The GoPro Hero12 Black Review also performs better in terms of heat management. I was able to record for about 30 minutes at 5.3K60 and 40 minutes at 4K60 in a room at 70°F. In both instances, the camera’s temperature reached 115°F before shutting down. This is an improvement over the Hero11’s quicker overheating issues.

GoPro’s approach to presets isn’t without its flaws. For instance, it’s not possible to transfer settings between different GoPro cameras, nor can users create personalized labels for presets. The list of available presets is fairly extensive, including options like Air, Bike, Epic, Custom, Indoor, Looping, Motor, Mounted, Outdoor, POV, Selfie, Skate, Snow, Trail, Travel, and Water. However, more intuitive labels such as “Vlogging” and “Slow-Motion” are noticeably absent. When I inquired with a GoPro representative about the potential for these features, the response was positive, though somewhat non-committal.
Pros
Class-leading video stabilization
10-bit HDR, GP-Log, and SDR video profiles
More useful Easy Controls than on Hero11
Front and rear displays
Up to 5.3K60, 4K120, or 2.7K240 recording
Small enough to mount in tight spots
Pro controls and timecode sync
Cons
Drops long-running GPS feature
Only a few headphones support wireless audio feature
One battery won’t last all day
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