GoPro Hero 12 Black review: A significant leap forward for action cameras

The new GoPro Hero 12 Black action camera was just released. It now represents the company's flagship action camera. Compared to previous models, this one offers some impressive upgrades and new features -- including up to double the run time of the Hero 11 Black. Yet, the camera continues to be small, lightweight, durable and waterproof.

One of the biggest misconceptions people have about GoPro action camera is that they're only good for capturing over-the-top adventures, like skydiving, scuba diving, skiing or dirt biking from an amazing first- or third-person perspective. It's true these cameras are great for this purpose, but they also make really good, easy-to-use and versatile cameras for anyone to use for capturing video of a child's soccer game or dance recital, as well as take memorable vacation videos or photos.

You really can take a GoPro just about anywhere. Keep reading to discover why I believe it's currently the best and most versatile action camera on the market -- and one that anyone can use.

GoPro HERO 12 Black: At a glance

Max. Video Resolution: 5.3K | Still Photo Resolution: 27MP | Max. Field of View: 177 degrees | Battery life: Up to 70 minutes of continuous recording at 5.3K60 resolution, up to 155 minutes of continuous recording at 1080p30 resolution | Displays: 1.4 inches (front), 2.27 inch touchscreen (rear) | Dimensions: 2.83 x 2 x 1.32 inches (camera only) | Weight: 5.43 ounces (camera only) | Port: USB Type-C | Mounting Options: GoPro Mounting Fingers, ¼ inch tripod jack | Memory Card Support: microSD (V30 or UHS-3 Rated) | Waterproof: Up to 33 feet without an additional housing | Optional Mods: Max Lens Mod 2.0, Max Lens Mod, Media Mod, Display Mod, Light Mod

Following in the footsteps of its predecessors, the GoPro HERO 12 Black is chock full of features that I found to be easier to use than ever before. The camera body measures 2.83 x 2 x 1.32 inches and it weighs a mere 5.43 ounces. It can literally fit in a shirt or pants pocket. On the front is a 1.4 inch full-color display (non-touchscreen), the camera's lens and a microphone/speaker. The top of the camera features the shutter button and one of three pinhole microphones.

Almost the entire back of the camera consists of a 2.27 inch, full-color touchscreen that's used to adjust camera settings (shown below) and as a viewfinder. The on-screen menu hierarchy and navigation system is simpler to navigate than on previous GoPro cameras. All displayed command icons and menu options are selectable with a touch. On the right side of the camera (when it's facing forward), you'll find the Mode button.

Over on the left side of the camera is a sealed compartment with a small door. Inside, you'll find the camera's battery and memory card slot, along with a USB Type-C port (shown below). While this door is watertight and keeps dirt out of these sensitive areas, the trick to opening it is to pull down on the small unlock tab and then gently pull the door out. I found this somewhat unintuitive at first.

Anyone who is familiar with GoPro cameras knows that the company uses a unique mounting fingers design for connecting the camera to any of the dozens of genuine and third-party mounts and accessories available. The camera's integrated mounting fingers can be kept flush against the bottom of the camera and easily pulled out when needed. Also, now built into the bottom of the camera is a standard, ¼-inch tripod mount.

Everything you need to start filming or taking photos with the GoPro HERO 12 Black comes in the box, save for a microSD memory card. This includes a USB cable, one GoPro Enduro battery, a general use mount and a mount bracket. A small drawstring storage bag is also included. The Max Lens 2.0 Mod can be purchased with the camera or separately. 

You can purchase the GoPro Hero 12 Black camera on its own from the GoPro website, Amazon or Best Buy. There are several bundles available, too. The GoPro Hero 12 Black + Accessories Bundle, for example, includes the camera, two Enduro batteries, The Handler (a hand grip for the camera), the Head Strap 2.0 and a carrying case.

Meanwhile, each compatible Mod, along with a wide selection of specialty mounts and accessories, are sold separately. One of my favorites is the Shorty, which can serve as a portable camera handle, mini selfie stick or tabletop tripod. While the camera comes with one GoPro Enduro battery, I recommend purchasing at least one extra, especially if you'll be shooting for extended periods, where no recharging options are available.

GoPro Hero 12 Black: Getting started

Even if you're not at all tech savvy and know next to nothing about digital photography, initially setting up the camera is a very fast and straightforward process. So, within five minutes, you'll be ready to start using the camera.

When you take the GoPro HERO 12 Black out of the box for the first time, insert the Enduro battery (once it's fully charged) into the camera and also insert a microSD memory card. Once the side door is properly sealed, turn on the camera. Follow the prompts on the back touchscreen. If you haven't already done so, download and install the free GoPro Quik app onto your smartphone. During the initial setup process (which takes less than five minutes), the camera pairs with your smartphone and then allows you to adjust certain general camera settings (like the default language, date and time). 

When you purchase a new GoPro camera, I recommend subscribing to the GoPro Subscription service. One of the key benefits of this service is unlimited cloud storage for all of your content. The camera has an integrated auto upload feature that kicks in when the camera is paired with your smartphone or a Wi-Fi network. It's used to automatically transfer your newly shot video and photos to the cloud. Another huge perk to the GoPro Subscription service is it comes with a no questions asked camera replacement warranty, so if the camera breaks, it will be replaced for a low deductible fee. Plus, you get up to 50% off when purchasing genuine GoPro accessories from the company's website.

GoPro Hero 12 Black: Here's what's new and improved

Each year, GoPro introduces an updated version of its flagship camera, with each model offering new or enhanced features that give it even more power and flexibility when it comes to shooting video or still images. Of course, 2023 was no exception. Here are just some of the improvements introduced in the GoPro Hero 12 Black that I found particularly noteworthy:

• The new user interface offers simplified controls that will appeal to casual users who want to capture consistently impressive still images and video content without having to tinker too much with the camera's settings. For more advanced users, simply switch to the Advanced Controls setting from the camera's menu to gain full control over all of the camera's shooting modes and settings.
• You can shoot video using HDR (high dynamic range) to improve color authenticity and detail. HDR mode works with multiple 4K and 5.3K video shooting resolution options and aspect ratios, including 5.3K, 16:9, 30fps.
• For enhanced image stabilization, GoPro incorporated HyperSmooth 6.0 into its latest action camera. This is an upgrade from HyperSmooth 5.0 that was integrated into the GoPro Hero 11 Black. It allows for capturing even smoother video when the camera is in motion while filming. 
• When shooting video in 1080p, 2.7K, 4K or 5.3K resolution using the Linear, Wide or HyperWide modes, you now have more frames per second options, in some cases going up to 120 fps.
• You get more options when capturing TimeWarp, Time Lapse or Night Lapse video sequences.
• It's now possible to pair the camera with up to four Bluetooth devices simultaneously.
• To make editing video shot using multiple GoPro cameras simultaneously a bit easier, the camera now offers a Timecode Sync feature.
• A traditional ¼-inch tripod mount has been integrated into the bottom of the camera, along with GoPro's own mounting fingers. Thus, it's easy to connect any standard tripod to the camera, not just one made specifically for the GoPro cameras. 
• The Max Lens 2.0 Mod expands the camera's field of view up to 177 degrees at 4K 60fps and gives you the addition of Max Wide, Max SuperView and Max HyperView settings that allow for an even more immersive quality to be incorporated into video content.
• With improved wireless audio support, the camera now supports Apple AirPods (and other Bluetooth audio devices, including wireless microphones from third-parties). Any of these can be used for narrating scenes, vlogging or issuing voice commands to the camera.
• The GoPro Enduro rechargeable batteries now keep the camera running up to twice as long as compared to last year's camera model.

GoPro Hero 12 Black: Operation

Beyond the fact that this camera can be taken almost anywhere and withstand even the harshest climate conditions, what I really like is that the camera can be controlled in several ways. It offers an intuitive icon and menu system that's accessible from the rear touchscreen display. This allows you to quickly choose a shooting mode and activate whichever features are needed for your specific shooting situations directly from the camera.

However, I often found it even easier to remotely control the camera and adjust camera settings directly from the Quik mobile app running on my iPhone 14 Pro Max. Yet another option is to use voice commands to control the camera, which is super convenient if you have the camera mounted to yourself or your equipment, your hands are occupied and you want to start shooting video or snapping still images.

Anytime you're ready to start shooting video or taking still images, the first step after turning on the camera is often mounting it to the most appropriate GoPro mount or accessory. There are dozens to choose from, including specialized mounts for securely connecting the camera to specific equipment, like a helmet, bicycle, surfboard or even your dog. There are also more general use mounts, including several extendable selfie stick, handle and tabletop tripod options, along with separate mounts that can be used to securely attach the camera to your chest, wrist or head.

Choosing the right mount or accessory will ensure you're able to capture the first- or third-person footage or photos you want, from the precise angle that you feel will be the most visually appealing. I found previewing the shot in the viewfinder screen or via the mobile app helps to ensure what the camera will record is exactly how you want the content captured. When I used the optional handlebar / bicycle mount, I found it east to connect the camera to my bike, but initially I did not tighten the mount enough, so when I started riding, I noticed the camera's angle start to shift. Once I realized the importance of securing each mount tightly, this problem never again became an issue.

Next, select the appropriate shooting mode. Start with a main camera function -- Time Lapse, Video or Photo. In conjunction with each mode, you have a variety of setting options. For example, after selecting Video, choose the video resolution, field of view and framing. You're also able to activate the Slo-Mo feature. To make this process easier, access the camera's menu, look for the Controls option and make sure the Easy Controls mode is activated. This provides more of a point-and-shoot experience that allows the camera to do more of the work when it comes to optimizing camera settings. For me, Easy Controls saved a lot of time setting up the camera for each shooting situation and cut down on the learning curve associated with learning to use the camera. 

After spending a lot of time working with the GoPro Hero 12 Black (and many previous GoPro camera models), I've found that the more time you initially spend getting to know what shooting features and functions are available to you and then taking the time to learn to quickly access them, the better your content will ultimately look. 

GoPro Hero 12 Black: Shooting video

One of the key features that set GoPros apart from other action cameras is the wide range of shooting resolutions and options available. Each allows the camera to capture clear, immersive and smooth video that showcases extreme detail, along with accurate and vibrant colors. Beyond just choosing the shooting resolution and field of view, GoPro Hero 12 Black users can adjust a variety of other options that allow the camera to perform exceptionally well in bright light, low light, at night or even underwater. 

I found that if you'll be using the camera to capture video in an unusual setting or situation, you'll definitely want to adjust the camera's settings to accommodate. Understanding what the camera is capable of with all of its shooting modes and options will help, but by accessing the GoPro website and selecting GoPro Support -> Cameras -> Hero 12 Black, there are all sorts of Help articles and a discussion forum that provide advice on how to capture the best content in very specific situations. This can be a valuable resource as you're getting to know the new camera.

As I worked with the camera, I quickly discovered that when shooting video, unless you actually need to capture content at 5.3K (60fps), you're better off using a lower resolution to make the raw video files smaller and easier to work with and edit when using your mobile device and the Quik app. After all, the higher the resolution, the larger the video files and the more space they take up on your camera's microSD memory card. If you plan to watch your videos on your 4K television or upload the content to YouTube, choose the 4K video shooting mode that will allow you to achieve the best results.

With the Easy Controls feature turned on, the camera makes important decisions about camera settings on your behalf, but it's still possible to quickly activate features like Slo-Mo or switch between Widescreen, Vertical or Full Frame and then adjust the field-of-view. Shooting pro-quality and incredibly smooth video is then an extremely straightforward process.

Due to the smaller size of the camera, instead of holding the camera in your bare hands, I highly recommend connecting it to an optional handle, such as the Shorty, 3-Way 2.0 or The Handler. This keeps your fingers from accidentally covering the lens.

If you plan to attach the camera to your body or your equipment to capture first-person footage, use the appropriate mount (and be sure to tighten it) to ensure the camera is held securely in place. Don't forget to properly frame each shot and check the camera's angle, especially if you'll be engaged in a high-action activity that involves a lot of movement.

GoPro Hero 12 Black: Capturing Still Images

One of my favorite features of the GoPro Hero 12 Black is the ability to select the Photo shooting mode and then choose between multiple FOVs. The Linear FOV allows the camera to perform more like a traditional point-and-shoot camera with the end result being rectangular images captured at 27MP. When relying on the rear viewfinder screen, if the camera is set to Easy Controls, simply tap on the "W" icon in the lower left corner and then use the on-screen slider to adjust the field of view to decide how much content you want to fit in the frame.

Tap on the SuperPhoto icon to switch between the SuperPhoto mode (which allows the camera to adjust the best image processing options based on your shooting situation) or Night Photo (which is best for low light or night time shooting). Keep in mind, you also have the ability to capture still images at the same time the camera is recording video or can pull still images during the video editing process. 

Take full advantage of the GoPro Quik mobile app

Just as the GoPro cameras have evolved overt time, so too has the GoPro Quik mobile app for iOS and Android. When your mobile device is paired with the camera via Bluetooth, you're able to remotely control the camera using your smartphone or tablet from up to about 33 feet away. The app is also able to scan your camera for new content and transfer all of it (or specific content you select) to your mobile device. A totally separate use of the app, however, is to organize, view, edit and then share content directly from a smartphone or tablet, without the need for a computer.

The file formats the GoPro camera uses for video and photo files are compatible with any photo or video editing application, but Quik offers editing tools that are able to fully tap the unique capabilities of the camera and offers ways to edit and share wide-angle content so it looks even more immersive. Once you've captured one or more raw video clips, Quik does an incredible job at compiling that content into professional looking, fully edited videos (complete with transition effects) that can be saved and shared in a matter of minutes. This takes so much of the guesswork out of editing video and speeds up the process dramatically. Of course, it's easy to add titles, captions, effect filters and music to your content as part of the editing process and then export the video in any of seven formats, based on how it will be shared and viewed.  

The Quik app is a powerful and extremely easy to use tool that really helps to set the GoPro cameras apart from their competition. While the still image editing tools are adequate, there are plenty of third-party photo editing apps for smartphones and tablets that are more powerful. However, I was extremely impressed by how easy it is to edit video right from a mobile device and be able to generate visually interesting and compelling content so quickly. According to GoPro, an all-new Windows and MacOS desktop version of Quik will be released in the near future. 

The GoPro ecosystem: No other action camera even comes close

Having had the opportunity to work with most of the popular action cameras currently available from GoPro, Insta360, DJI and Akaso, for example, I have discovered that what sets GoPro apart is the ecosystem of products and services that give the user such a diverse set of options when capturing, editing, storing and sharing their video content and still images. 

No other action camera can go from serving as a point-and-shoot camera for everyday use or for capturing vacation memories, to allowing the user to capture such a wide range of action/adventure-oriented activities from such unique perspectives. And to help the user determine exactly what extra equipment may be needed for specific activities, the GoPro website's Shop by Activity section makes the process easy by making suggestions for capturing powersports, kids and pets, diving and snorkeling, travel and adventure, mountain biking, hiking and camping, surfing, moto sports, skiing or snowboarding.

Meanwhile, the GoPro Mods for the GoPro Hero 12 Black allow the camera to easily adapt to other common shooting situations, like vlogging or live streaming.

GoPro HERO 12 Black: Final thoughts…

Whether you're shooting video or still images, the one thing that the GoPro Hero 12 does exceptionally well is give you an incredible selection of creative options that can easily adapt to your shooting style and objectives. Whether you're taking everyday photos, shooting video of your child's soccer game or just want to capture first-person video of a high-action activity, the GoPro Hero 12 can accommodate.

Between the camera's intuitive onboard menu system, voice commands or remotely controlling the camera using the Quik app via a smartphone, you have plenty of options. Plus, the GoPro ecosystem of camera Mods, mounts, accessories and the GoPro Subscription service (offering cloud-based storage) give you incredible creative control and the ability to capture, edit and share content in ways that GoPro has made easier than ever for the average user.

Ultimately, because it takes up so little space, whenever I embark on a vacation, bringing along my GoPro camera allows me to capture vacation memories from perspectives and in climates that a smartphone's camera or traditional digital camera could not handle.

Why we like the GoPro Hero 12

• The GoPro Hero 12 Black offers an extremely compact, lightweight and durable design.
• You get access to a diverse selection of shooting modes and options that will capture incredible detail.
• Compared to older versions of the camera, the GoPro Hero 12 Black is easier to use and offers a longer battery life.
• The GoPro ecosystem continues to expand, giving users more options and unique ways to use their camera.
• The Quik mobile app is powerful, intuitive and allow users to add professional touches to their raw content during the editing process.

What we don't like about the GoPro Hero 12

• With so many onboard shooting options, along with a vast selection of Mods, mounts and accessories, it's sometimes challenging to choose the right combination of settings and additional equipment needed to achieve the desired results (especially when shooting video).
• While the camera itself is fairly priced, it can get expensive once you start purchasing a selection of genuine GoPro Mods, mounts, and camera accessories.
• The camera's overall functionality is easier and more intuitive than ever, but achieving professional results takes practice in using the camera in a variety of situations and shooting scenarios.

Related content from CBS Essentials

• Best action cameras of 2023: GoPro, DJI, Insta360 and more
  
• Best laptops under $500: Experience mobile computing on a budget
• Best rugged laptops of 2023: Take your laptop where no computer has gone before
• Best portable monitors for laptops: Instantly boost your productivity anywhere
• Best folding smartphones in 2023: Samsung, Google, more