GoPro HERO12 Black May Be the Best Action Camera of 2023

If you are looking for a rugged and powerful action camera, you might want to consider the GoPro HERO12 Black.

This is the 2023 flagship model from GoPro.

In this blog post, I will review the GoPro HERO12 Black and explain why I think it may be the best action camera of 2023.

I will also compare it to some of its main competitors, such as the DJI Osmo Action 4 and the Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition.

What’s new in the GoPro HERO12 Black?

Here are some of the new features and enhancements that make the HERO12 Black stand out:

• HDR video: The HERO12 Black can record high dynamic range (HDR) video in 5.3K and 4K resolutions, which means it can capture more details in both bright and dark areas of the scene. HDR video also produces more vivid colors and contrast, making your footage look more realistic.
• Bluetooth audio: The HERO12 Black supports wireless audio connectivity with Bluetooth devices, such as Apple AirPods and other wireless headphones. This allows you to record sound and give voice commands without using the built-in mic on the camera. You can also monitor the audio levels and adjust the settings on the GoPro app.
• Longer runtimes: The HERO12 Black has a redesigned power management system that improves its thermal performance and battery efficiency. For example, it can record up to 1.5 hours at 5.3K30 and over 2.5 hours at 1080p30.
• Max Lens Mod 2.0: The HERO12 Black is compatible with the optional Max Lens Mod 2.0, which is an accessory that attaches to the front of the camera. The Max Lens Mod 2.0 enables an ultra-wide angle, 177-degree field of view in 4K60, which is great for capturing immersive and dynamic shots.
• HyperSmooth 6.0 and Horizon Lock: It also has enhanced HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization and the Horizon Lock feature, which keeps the horizon level even when the camera rotates.
• Timecode Sync: The HERO12 Black has a new Timecode Sync feature that allows you to wirelessly synchronize multiple HERO12 Black cameras at once. This is useful for multi-camera setups and professional workflows, as it makes it easier to align and edit the footage from different angles and perspectives.

How does the GoPro HERO12 Black compare to other action cameras?

The GoPro HERO12 Black is not the only action camera on the market, and some alternatives might be cheaper or better for your needs. Here are some of the main competitors of the HERO12 Black and how they stack up against it:

• DJI Osmo Action 4: The DJI Osmo Action 4 is one of the closest rivals of the HERO12 Black, as it also offers 4K120 and 2.7K240 video resolutions, a front touchscreen, and a replaceable lens protector. However, the Osmo Action 4 has a larger 1/1.3-inch sensor, which gives it an edge in low-light performance and image quality. It also has a unique magnetic mounting system that makes it easy to attach and detach the camera from various accessories. On the other hand, the Osmo Action 4 has a lower maximum resolution of 4K, and it does not support HDR video, Bluetooth audio, or Max Lens Mod. It also has a shorter battery life than the HERO12 Black.
• Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition: The Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition is another innovative action camera that can switch between two lens modules: one for 4K video and one for 360-degree video. This gives you more creative options and flexibility to capture different types of shots. The ONE R also has some unique features, such as FlowState stabilization, Auto Frame, and Shot Lab, which help you create smooth and cinematic videos with ease. However, the ONE R has a lower resolution and frame rate than the HERO12 Black, and it is not as durable or waterproof. It also requires more editing and processing to get the best results from the 360-degree footage.

What are the pros and cons of the GoPro HERO12 Black?

The GoPro HERO12 Black is not a perfect camera, and it has its strengths and weaknesses. Here are some of the pros and cons of the HERO12 Black that you should consider before buying it:

Pros:

• It has the highest resolution and frame rate of any action camera, delivering stunning 5.3K60 and 4K120 video.
• It can record HDR video, which enhances the dynamic range, color, and contrast of the footage.
• It supports Bluetooth audio, which allows you to use wireless headphones and mics for sound recording and voice control.
• It has longer runtimes than the previous model, thanks to its improved power management system and battery.
• It is compatible with the Max Lens Mod 2.0, which expands the field of view and stabilization of the camera.
• It has a Timecode Sync feature, which enables wireless synchronization of multiple cameras for multi-camera setups.

Cons:

• It has a smaller sensor than some of its competitors, which might affect its low-light performance and image quality.
• It drops the GPS feature that was present in the previous model, which might disappoint some users who want to track their location and speed data.
• It only supports a few headphones for wireless audio, and some of them might not be compatible with the waterproof housing.
• It is more expensive than some of its alternatives, and it might not offer enough new features to justify the upgrade for some users.

Is it Worth Buying

Based on my research, I think the GoPro HERO12 Black is the best action camera of 2023. It offers a combination of features, performance, and quality that is hard to beat by any other camera. It is ideal for anyone who wants to capture high-quality videos and photos in any situation, whether it is sports, adventure, travel, or vlogging. It is also easy to use and customize, thanks to its intuitive interface and app. It is compatible with a wide range of accessories and mounts, which makes it more versatile and fun to use.

Who is it For

However, the GoPro HERO12 Black is not for everyone, and it might not suit your budget or needs. If you are looking for a cheaper or simpler option, you might want to check out some of the other action cameras on the market, such as the DJI Osmo Action 4 or the Insta360 ONE R Twin Edition. They might not have all the features and capabilities of the HERO12 Black, but they still offer great value and performance for their price.

Eventually, the best action camera for you depends on your personal preferences, goals, and expectations. You should consider what kind of videos and photos you want to capture, how often and where you plan to use the camera, and how much you are willing to spend. You should also compare the specifications, features, and reviews of different cameras before making your decision.

Get Yours

I hope I have given you some insights and tips on how to choose the best action camera for you. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to leave them below.

See you in the next one!

~ Adrian Lee