GoPro Hero 12 vs 11 (6 NEW Upgrades)

By Naila Syifa
Updated April 2024

The GoPro Hero 12 has recently been released in September 2023. How does this new model compare with the older GoPro Hero 11? Are there any significant improvements that made upgrading to the Hero 12 worth it? Let's find out!

Key Takeaways

GoPro Hero 12 is better than the Hero 11 as it offers 6 new upgrades: up to 2x longer battery life, new 9:16 aspect ratio, new HDR for videos, new HyperSmooth 6.0 for image stabilization, Timecode Sync feature, and new wireless audio support.

On our list

#1 Price

#2 Design

#3 Image Quality

#4 Features

GoPro Hero 12 Black

2023 Version

✓ 5.3K Video, 27 MP Photo
✓ HyperSmooth 6.0 with Horizon Lock
✓ New 9:16 and 8:7 aspect ratio for vertical video
✓ HDR Videos and Photos

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GoPro Hero 11 Black

2022 Version

✓ 5.3K Video, 27 MP Photo
✓ HyperSmooth 5.0 with Horizon Lock
✓ New 8:7 aspect ratio for vertical video
✓ HDR Photos

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#1 Price

GoPro Hero 12 Black

When it was first released, the GoPro Hero 11 was priced at $399.99. Now, with the release of the Hero 12, the price of the Hero 11 has dropped to $349.99. On the other hand, the GoPro Hero 12 replaced the Hero 11 as the flagship camera and is priced at $399.99.

#2 Design

GoPro Hero 11 Black

In terms of design, there is no significant improvement or difference between the Hero 11 and the Hero 12. The Hero 12 retains the ruggedness and waterproof design of its predecessor, with dual LCD screens for touch control at the back and preview at the front side. The size and the weight are also similar to the Hero 11, and both models feature 3 mics for audio recording.

Both models also feature the same 1720 mAh Enduro battery that provides better performance in cold weather conditions compared to the older GoPro models. However, the new Hero 12 has a new power management system that allows for improved thermal performance and up to 2x longer battery life.

#3 Image Quality

GoPro Hero 12 Black

The GoPro Hero 12 delivers image quality as impressive as the Hero 11, boasting a maximum of 5.3K/60 fps video resolution, 27 MP photos, and 24.7 MP photo frame-grabs from video. In both models, you also have the option to choose other resolutions, including 4K/120 fps, 2.7K/240 fps, 1080p/240 fps, and lower frame rates. Both the Hero 12 and 11 also offer the same maximum field of view of 156° and feature the same sensor size of 1/1.9”. Therefore, the image quality of both models is quite on par.

However, the GoPro Hero 12 offers a new 9:16 aspect ratio, perfect for capturing vertical videos for social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. This new model also supports HDR for 5.3K/30 and 4K/60 videos, while the Hero 11 supports HDR only for photos.

#4 Features

GoPro Hero 12 Black

Both the GoPro Hero 12 and 11 feature excellent image stabilization technology with built-in Horizon Lock and AutoBoost, so you can keep the horizon level when the camera rotates a full 360° while recording. However, the image stabilization technology in the Hero 12, the HyperSmooth 6.0, is more advanced and slightly improved compared to the older HyperSmooth 5.0 in the Hero 11.

Other features that are present in both models include HindSight, which allows you to capture up to 30 seconds of footage before you hit the record button, and Voice Control, which lets you control the camera hands-free by using certain voice commands. Various modes are also available in both models, including Scheduled Capture, Duration Capture, and Timelapse.

HindSight in GoPro Hero 12 and 11

You can also use the Quik app on your mobile devices to edit and share your videos and photos, as well as to control your camera from a distance. If you subscribe to a GoPro subscription plan, you can also access unlimited cloud storage for your footage, and get automatic highlight videos sent to your phone to save you time and hassle.

The GoPro Hero 12 also comes with some new features unavailable in the older Hero 11 model, such as built-in Timecode Sync, which allows you to sync multiple cameras to the same timecode, making it easier to edit footage from different angles. It also has a new wireless audio support, so you can connect the camera to your AirPods or other headphones via Bluetooth to record audio and give remote voice commands.