GoPro HERO 12 vs. 11 – Do we recommend the new GoPro?

Sports cameras began their rise in our country with GoPro as the main standard bearer, and years later, it continues to lead the market. Therefore, whenever it releases new models, the first thing we do is analyze them in detail and check what innovations it has implemented compared to previous models. In this case, we show you a comparison between two models from one of the ranges that GoPro reserves for adventure sports: GoPro HERO 12 vs 11.

Aesthetically, there are no differences between the two cameras, they are practically identical. They have the same size and the same weight, and both have a double front and rear screen. Does this mean that there are no differences between them? No, only the variations are not seen with the naked eye, but are technical issues that are perceived in the results captured by each of the cameras.

For example, one of the most significant is that the GoPro HERO 12 can record videos in HDR, or high dynamic range, unlike the GoPro HERO 11. What does it mean? In that moving images have a much more realistic appearance, because the contrast between highlights and blacks is greater. In addition, HDR videos have a wider range of colors, which also increases realism.

However, this is not the only difference between both cameras. If you want to know which of the two is more worth it for what you are looking for, don’t miss our review!

GoPro HERO 12 vs GoPro HERO 11 – Comparison Table

Do you want to know which of these two sports cameras is made for you? In that case, we encourage you to read our comparison and consult the following table. In it, we summarize the main characteristics of each one:

No design changes

As we have anticipated, there are no major differences when it comes to the design of the two GoPro sports cameras. In fact, if we put them side by side, we could think that they are the same model. Their dimensions and weight are the same, and the only thing that changes is that the GoPro HERO 12 has a blue speckled design, while the GoPro HERO 11 is black and smooth.

Likewise, in the two cameras we see two LCD screens: one 1.4 inches on the front, and another 2.7 inches on the back. And, when it comes to water resistance , the two GoPros can be submerged up to approximately 10 meters deep.

Resolution of photos and videos

If we look at the resolution of the photos and videos of both cameras, we see that both have a 1/1.9-inch CMOS image sensor, which allows them to take photos with a resolution of up to 27 megapixels. On the other hand, both can record up to 5.3K at 60 fps. The same happens with the field of view, which is 156º in both cameras, with an aspect ratio of 8:7.

One small difference is worth noting, and that is that the GoPro HERO 12 has a 9:16 aspect ratio that the GoPro HERO 11 does not have. This allows you to record videos vertically to upload directly to TikTok or Instagram. On the other hand, the Time Lapse, TimeWarp, Night Lapse, and night effects recording capabilities in an 8:7 ratio are only available on the GoPro HERO 12, while the 8:7 aspect ratio only affects recording. videos in standard mode on the GoPro HERO 11.

Video recording in HDR, one of the main differences

We come to one of the most important differences between the two cameras is that only the GoPro HERO 12 can record videos in high dynamic range, better known as HDR. This option causes the camera to capture highlights and blacks with more intensity, generating a higher contrast that gives greater realism to moving images. It is an important feature if we take into account that GoPros are usually used in bright outdoor conditions, where the contrast is usually more intense.

Most updated version of the stabilizer

One of the most important elements in sports cameras is the stabilizer, because the images that are recorded are usually in motion. In this regard, the GoPro HERO 12 updates the stabilizer, which goes from HyperSmooth 5.0 of the GoPro HERO 11 to HyperSmooth 6.0. According to the brand, the new version is capable of analyzing what it is recording up to 4 times faster than the HERO 11. However, and to be completely honest, the difference is quite difficult to notice, since the stabilizer is very good in both cases.

Battery life doubles

This is another of the clearest differences between the two GoPros, battery life. In reality, it is because the GoPro HERO 12 has a better capacity to optimize the battery, since both have the same capacity. However, the GoPro HERO 12’s battery can last up to 70 minutes recording in 5K, compared to 35 minutes for the GoPro HERO 11. The HERO 12 actually has a more efficient power management system, which provides better performance. more advanced thermal. On the other hand, the two batteries take the same time to charge, about 3 hours.

Microphones and audio

The microphone system is identical on both cameras, with both having 3-microphone processing for good noise reduction, and both having a stereo audio system. However, only the GoPro HERO 12 is compatible with wireless audio devices such as wireless headphones or other Bluetooth microphones. On the other hand, the GoPro HERO 11 requires a connection via the 3.5 mm input.

Additional features and app

The GoPro HERO 12 has a feature that the GoPro HERO 11 lacks: Timecode Sync. With it, you can synchronize multiple cameras with the same time code so that images can be edited from different angles. Beyond this difference, it is worth highlighting other features that we find in both cameras, such as voice control, synchronization with the GoPro Quick app, and functions such as HindSight, with which the camera captures 30 seconds before recording.

Which GoPro HERO sports camera is more interesting?

If we look at the technical functionalities, the GoPro HERO 12 is a more complete and sophisticated camera than the GoPro HERO 11. The incorporation of high dynamic range recording, the optimization of autonomy, and the possibility of synchronizing the camera with others wireless audio systems are more than enough reasons to opt for the HERO 12 if your budget allows it. In fact, the price difference between the two does not seem so high to us considering that it improves almost all of its features.

Now, if you already have the GoPro HERO 11, is it worth upgrading to the new model? We are not so clear about it, because you have already made a previous investment. If you usually use the sports camera regularly and it is important for you to get the most professional recordings, for example, if they are part of your profession, we would recommend it to you. But if your use is rather amateur, you may find it more interesting to wait for new models, which GoPro will surely launch soon.