2023-12-04 14:56:01
GoPro is back with its new high-end action camera, the Hero12 Black. What to expect with this new iteration? The American brand promises us a camera with exceptional image and video quality, as well as many innovative functions. For GoPro, the success of this new model is necessary. 2022 was a down year for the brand and the decline might well continue in 2023. The action camera manufacturer therefore needs to end the year on a good note. Will the Christmas holidays meet his expectations?
GoPro resumed the configuration of the Hero11 Black to improve it in small steps. If the design and components of the GoPro Hero12 Black remain almost identical, we nevertheless note a discreet evolution and the arrival of some interesting new features. We were able to test the camera for a few weeks, in urban and sports mode, to see what it had in its stomach and how it behaved in use. Verdict.
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Image and video quality
This is what we primarily ask of this type of device: to memorize in the best possible conditions images taken on the spot, in sometimes complicated conditions. First thing to know: the sensor is the same as on the GoPro Hero11. It is a 27 megapixel 8:7. This format, which may seem disturbing at first glance, has in fact been designed to obtain images that can be used as well when shared in landscape format (on YouTube for example) as if used on social networks – and therefore most often in vertical format.
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GoPro offers three possible formats: 8:7, 16:9 or 4:3 and takes into account filming in vertical mode. Regardless of the configuration chosen, the maximum definition remains the same, up to 5.3K and 60 frames per second.
As an action camera, the Hero12 also includes three focal lengths: 12, 16 and 24 mm. The shortest option allows for wide-angle filming. But to do this you will have to accept some distortions of the image (what we call “fish-eye” rendering). To be reserved for the most spectacular action scenes where you want to be sure to film the entire scene.
In terms of quality, GoPro does not disappoint: image stabilization is extremely well managed. We must thank the new Hypersmooth 6.0 technology which eliminates vibrations and jolts.
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We had the opportunity to test the camera on Alpine trail trails and during Gravel outings (cycling on paths and not asphalt). Result: very beautiful, smooth tracking shots that perfectly pay homage to our sessions in the great outdoors. And the 360° horizon lock reinforces our very good initial impression. Even if it means applying significant cropping if necessary. We appreciate. Especially since this option is available up to 5K at 30 fps or 4K at 60 fps. On the competition side, DJI offers the same thing on its Action 4, but only in 2.7K at 60 fps maximum.
A design that seems immutable
Since the Hero9, GoPro has changed very little in the design of its action camera. Only small changes in this version 12: the updated logo, a black case now speckled with blue and a ¼ thread between the fixing rods. Why that ? This thread makes the device easier to hang on a pole or even a tripod.
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For the rest, only déjà vu. Same dimensions (72x51x33 mm), same weight (154 grams), same 2.27-inch rear screen, same water resistance to 10 meters and same ergonomics with unchanged button layout. Never change a winning team ? This seems to be GoPro’s motto. And indeed, even if we would have liked a slightly more compact volume, an even lighter weight… everything remains completely acceptable and we have no hesitation in taking the accessory to immortalize epic moments.
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Improvements by touches
Although the Hero12 seems very similar to the previous model, it still gains in endurance. GoPro announces 70 minutes of recording in 5.3K at 60 fps when the Hero11 was limited to 61 minutes. We therefore gain a little autonomy even though the battery remains the same (1720 mAh). The American brand worked on two criteria: better heat dissipation (the camera heats up less), slightly reduced consumption (software optimization) and the disappearance of GPS. And we have indeed observed slightly greater endurance than on the previous model.
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Also note some interesting new features. The Hero12 is now capable of pairing with Bluetooth headsets (including Apple AirPods), which allows you to observe the quality of the sound recording during production. New video settings (HDR, 10-bit LOG color profile, etc.), a Max 2.0 wide-angle lens module sold as an option and an interval photo taking mode (between 1/2 seconds and 120 seconds) also appear. in the features of the GoPro Hero12 Black.
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