GoPro Hero 11 vs 12 (6 NEW Upgrades)
By Naila Syifa
Updated August 2024
GoPro Hero 12 succeeded the Hero 11 with some significant upgrades across a range of aspects, from video features to audio capability and battery. Are these improvements worth the extra price? Let's dive into the comparison between GoPro 11 vs 12!
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.
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
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
#1 Price
GoPro Hero 12 Black
When it was first released, the GoPro Hero 11 was priced at US$399.99. It is the exact same price as the GoPro Hero 12's release date. However, by August 2024, the price of the Hero 11 had dropped to US$349.99, while the Hero 12 remains the flagship model with a US$399.99 price tag.
Both models are often found in promotions, especially the Hero 11 as the older model. This could widen the price gap between the GoPro 11 vs GoPro 12, so be sure to keep a close eye if you're considering making a purchase soon.
#2 Design
GoPro Hero 11 Black
In terms of design, there is no significant improvement or difference when comparing the GoPro 12 vs GoPro 11. 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.
GoPro Hero 12 vs 11
Final Thoughts
GoPro Hero 11 Black
By comparing GoPro 11 vs 12, we can see that models have the same design and comparable image quality. However, the GoPro Hero 12 introduces six new upgrades that make it stand out: longer battery life, new 9:16 aspect ratio, new HDR for videos, improved HyperSmooth 6.0, new Timecode Sync, and wireless audio support.
If you are in the market for a new action camera, the GoPro Hero 12 is a great choice, which costs just $50 more than the older Hero 11 model. However, if you already own a Hero 11 and are still satisfied with its abilities, the differences between GoPro 12 vs 11 may not be worth an immediate upgrade.
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| Specs | GoPro Hero 12 Black | GoPro Hero 11 Black |
|---|---|---|
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | |
| Price | $399.99 | $349.99 |
| Dimensions | 71.8 x 50.8 x 33.6 mm | 71.8 x 50.8 x 33.6 mm |
| Weight | 154 g | 154 g |
| Screen | Preview Front (1.4”), Rear Touch (2.27”) | Preview Front (1.4”), Rear Touch (2.27”) |
| Max Video Resolution | 5.3K/60 fps | 5.3K/60 fps |
| Max Photo Resolution | 27 MP | 27 MP |
| Max Field of View | 156° | 156° |
| Image Sensor | 1/1.9” | 1/1.9" |
| Aspect Ratio | (16:9) (9:16) (4:3) (8:7) | (16:9) (4:3) (8:7) |
| HDR | Photo and video | Photo |
| Image Stabilization | HyperSmooth 6.0 | HyperSmooth 5.0 |
| Audio | 3 microphones | 3 microphones |
| External Audio Support | Yes, wireless and wired | Yes, wired |
| Temperature | -10º C to 35º C | -10º C to 35º C |
| Waterproof | Yes, 10m | Yes, 10m |
| Voice Control | Yes | Yes |
| Live Streaming | Yes | Yes |
| Webcam | Yes | Yes |
| HindSight | Yes | Yes |
| Timecode Sync | Yes | No |
| Battery | 1720 mAh | 1720 mAh |
| Storage | microSD card up to 1 TB | microSD card up to 1 TB |
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