I've been exclusively using GoPro Hero 5 Black for all my POV shots since 2017. Every time GoPro comes out with a new camera, I try it out, only to find that GoPro Hero 5 Black is still the best GoPro if you need long continuous runtimes and no overheating/freezing issues. IT JUST WORKS. In addition to no overheating issues, the GoPro Hero 5 Black beat the GoPro 11 in these categories (tested in identical settings): -Closeup focus (GoPro 11 can't focus as close up as 5) -Battery life -Image noise/compression artifacts -Size -Price After I performed this test a few months ago, I put my GoPro 11 away and bought 4 more GoPro 5 Black cameras off facebook marketplace, which should last me enough years until GoPro makes a camera that finally beats the Hero 5 Black.
It's hard to take this company serious after the 9, the 10, the 11 and now the 12 that suffers from the same problem. They all have the same formfactor, actually exactly the same case. The problem seems to be the generated heat inside which is going to make it overheat at some point. That they were facing that problem at the 9, and maybe the 10, that could happen. But then we got the 11 and now the 12 with exactly the same problem... You would have expected that they had adjusted something in the case by now to eliminate this. For example installing more heatsinks to conduct the heat to the outside. They could have used aluminum parts on the outside to achieve this (now heat only gets conducted by the screens). I had used my Sjcam M10+ for a long while on trips. It was a budget action cam out of 2016 for just €60. And I always used within the protective and completely closed diving case. That camera just kept working and ran for over 1.5 hours until the batteries ran out. Used my Hero11 (a €400 camera out of 2022 to put it in comparison) on the same settings during my trip in Colombia this year. Without case and on the same settings the camera was shutting down within 15min. due to overheating already at some places.
I got into filming my stuff way after the Hero 5, but I'll say this...my Hero 8 is WAY better than all of the newer versions and everyone I know that has the 8 LOVES it. So if you can't find a 5, get an 8.
I was trying to sell my GoPro 11 before the release to get the upgrade, but after seeing it in action, I am not disappointed that it didn’t sell. I did get the Snap mount on your recommendation last year though, and that has been a game changer for my channel.
Love that you're digging SnapMounts! And yeah, if you've got a Hero 11, I can't imagine a reason you would upgrade to the 12 unless you're on a commercial set and GP-Log or Timecode sync are a necessity. The 11 is still super dope!
@@ec-uploads I couldn't care less about GPS, and a lot of people are like that. In fact, I prefer privacy with most footage I would take. Location data, location tracking is a big problem right now. GPS was gimmicky for most users. I'll admit it's great for some, but if gps is important, there are many other ways to get that data too. Synced gps data with footage overlay, let's face it the majority aren't looking at it. I guarantee there's a workaround with phones and other external tooling.
This video single handedly helped me decide to return my new GoPro 11 that I got for my Birthday a week ago. I waited to open it, knowing a 12 was likely imminent! I’m a huge customer of GoPro, but the 11 was sort of a “firmware” update of the 10, and this 12 isn’t doing much to impress, unless you like sparkles! So I’m personally planning on returning my 11, not buying the 12, and waiting ‘till Black Friday and will likely get another 9 or maybe a 10 depending on those deals. Happy shopping and recording everyone! 👍⚓️
If you have a GoPro subscription I've got a broken Hero 9 I'd part with for dirt cheap and you can exchange it for a new one to GoPro for $99 I believe. Personally for my use I thought the software stability between the 9 and 11 were night and day so I had zero interest in using another 9 so I never replaced it.
@@justinclancy9125my insta 360 x3 has a audio video sync issue and I’m on my second unit with the same issue. I would never buy a insta product again. There are many people who use it for actual vlogs and audio and video have a synchronized mismatch of lips and audio
Seems like the GP12 is more of a software upgrade and not so much of a hardware upgrade. If that’s mostly true, then they are charging $399 for a software update? I just feel like there should have been more hardware innovation in the GP12. Still a good camera but I’m happy with my Action 4 camera. I hope both companies push each other to innovate more
same feelings. Kind of prefer action4 right now. The magnetic system and batter life without overheating. The lowlights capability and under water color are just amazing!
I got the Hero 12 as a birthday gift from my family and I love it! My first GoPro. I’m just using it as a daily carry and vlogging camera. Great little tool.
I am so glad I did not wait for the 12 to come out and purchased the Dji Action 4. The only reason the GoPro battery is lasting longer is the lack of a GPS system inside. Thanks for the excellent video, I look forward to the next one.
Coming from a GoPro 8, I ordered a 12. Often times reviews compare to previous gen, but some of us don't upgrade yearly. 8 -> 12 is a significant upgrade in terms of quality and performance.
A Hero 10 would give you almost the same performance for $250, just without a couple little motion gimmicks. Sure, it's software didn't get some much-needed bug fixes, but the 12 isn't going to get those fixes either. This company doesn't support its products... yet they still charge a subscription. When they figure out how to fix their software for real, they'll just sell it to you as another new camera.
So far the most comprehensive and relevant review I have seen. Wish I could give it more than one 👍. A modest update it seems, that’s ok. And you were right…I couldn’t see the HDR difference, but on UA-cam difficult to see slight improvements on anything, AirPods didn’t sound great, I can see how it could work ok sometimes though. I would have added to the bad list the lack of ability to connect an external mic unless you buy the media mod or an external adapter. Not a new thing however.
When I bought my Hero 9 several years ago, I did get the media mod for several reasons, one was the cold shoe for things like wireless mics (have the Hollywood lark 150), of course, the audio connector on the back of the media mod. The built in mics are good for some things and infinitely better than the ones on the actual camera. While the preview function while recording is missing on the Hero 9, it's not been a deal breaker as I can set the shot up before recording and chances are, it comes out fine when done. Also, there is the front screen that I keep on so it's there to check things when possible/needed. Having TC sync is nice as I can, if it'll work with 3rd party timecode generators like the Octopus and can jam sync everything, even my Hero 9 with an outboard timecode generator. I have already modded my camera mounts to one type to the Arca Swiss family of mounts, though not from Arca Swiss itself, but ones off of Amazon and I can swap cameras from one tripod to another etc. One thing I may do is get an external audio recorder so if I loose the audio on the camera, I have a backup.
Seems to me GoPro is now the Apple of action cameras. Like the iPhone…their action camera was first to do something “game changing” with a type of technology. Now it is a combination of incremental upgrades of questionable value, things that others were already able to do (e.g. viewing a video in the app as you are recording), and software improvements that they could add to their existing camera(s), but they force people to upgrade to get (which isn’t actually customer-friendly). Don’t get me wrong. They may still be the best action camera, but I feel that DJI and Insta360 are truly innovative. Maybe when the 13 comes out I’ll upgrade, but my GoPro HERO 10 remains enough, especially augmented with my Action 4 and GO 3. P.S. As usual, great video. I also like that I leave your videos feeling better than before I started watching. Appreciate your personality.
24:46 in, I'm being honest when I say that made your entire video worth watching all the way through! Especially the fall off the suitcase! I was howling!! 😂
Removing the GPS helped the overheating tremendously. It also removed a cost element that allowed them to reduce the price without reducing the margin so much.
Another plus regarding the bluetooth mic is that you can control the camera remotely by voice now even when the GoPro is out of normal voice range. It's evolution more than revolution, but they're going to need to something considerably more impressive next year.
One thing to keep in mind and this will go for most cameras that are small, including mirrorless and DSLR types are the bodies do not allow adequate airflow for the internal components inside, and the big one is the sensor itself and one big issue with the GoPro, and other action cameras are the really small bodies so heat gets trapped and do better with adequate airflow. Marcus P did a test of several of the mirrorless/DSLR cameras and the camcorders, on a hot day, in full sunlight, I forget if HD or not (if HD, over 1080P) but all the smaller mirrorless/DSLR cameras all failed in the desert sun, most crapping out before 30 minutes, some much sooner, but all the camcorders were still recording. This is due to the larger bodies of even the small consumer cheap camcorders were superior to most of the other smaller cameras as far as handling the heat. I have the H9 and so far have not had overheating issues, but I also shoot in 1080P. Even many phones will overheat after several minutes when shooting 4K. 4K shooting will generate quite a bit more heat in general and do be aware that unless doing action shooting, most of us can get away with shooting much less as much of what you use when editing are seconds, if not frames of a clip anyway, so running your camera say, no more than 5 minutes at a time will give you plenty to choose from. BT is not a major thing for me as I use a wireless lav with the media mod, and you can likely still get the adapter that plugs into the USB port with the pass through door in place to plug your mic into if you do not get the media mod. I got the media mod for that reason and to attach a small battery light to it, and can run an external power brick with a USB cable if I need to. I'd be interested in this camera for GP-Log and TC sync. I would hope it can interface with 3rd party devices like the Octopus for jam syncing multiple cameras as needed. Having the preview still be functional while recording is nice, but not a deal breaker with my H9 as I can set up the shot with the phone, then hit record anyway. Overall, a good review of a really new camera. BTW, I personally don't do action video, but may be outside doing yard work, taking the camera to the beach or mountains etc and have found that what you use for media cards will make or break your success with the GoPro and Samsung SD cards seem to be liked better with my GoPro than Sandisk, of which came with my camera when I bought it new.
About the bluetooth feature, i can imagine it might be more interesting with other microphones than airpods. I'm not sure if there are good dedicated bluetooth mics, but i can imagine they work much more convenient that having a wireless mic and needing an adapter mounted on the GoPro. I definitely like the idea, and who knows, if a bluetoot connection to microphones gets supported more, maybe Rode, Sennheiser etc. might actually make really high quality bluetooth mics. Honestly, i wish my fullframe camera could support bluetooth for both microphones and headphones, since even just being able to recieve audio feedback on the headphone might be really useful here and there. I definitely appreciate the idea to implement it on the GoPro, even if it might need microphone manufacturers to tag along for maximum benefit
Yeah, that's exactly what I was thinking and why I had it in the GOOD and the BAD category. Killer idea as a feature, but we need support for third parties to make a really good solution for the GoPro. Hoping the third party market comes to the rescue on this one!
I was also wondering about the Bluetooth sound quality being more about the Airpods than anything else. When coworkers who use Airpods for Zoom meetings, their audio quality is pretty bad.
Thanks for the review David. I have 4 questions:- 1) Is HDR video mode available in other shooting modes such as Night Lapse video. It would be good if you could expose for the night sky and then say a cityscape below the night sky. 2) Is it true HDR REC2020 video or is it just frame blending? 3) Will the Max Lens Mod 2.0 work on the 9/10/11? 4) Is there 120 FPS for 2.7k on the Max Lens Mod 2.0?
@@simonwyndham awesome thanks for confirming that. I had someone tell me it was REC2020 but the live feed I watched with Abe said frame blending. And 1080P 120FPS is still going to be quite useful. 👍
No GPS = Better battery life (longer time not over heating) 😏 I’m a GP11 user and was excited about the audio upgrade but no. I’ll wait until next year. Happy with my GP11
Cool David, always ahead of everyone!🤩 I decided to sell my GoPro11 and no more GoPro unless overheat issues ends. DJI Action 4 and Insta360 Go3 are way better and reliable.
Invisalign bro, get that tooth fixed. I’m in my 25th week with just a few more weeks to go and I’m surprised and impressed how well it has worked for me.
11:35 I think best to have a separate mic for anything UA-cam and up for professionals. I think you demonstrated the advantage but the quality is not good enough unless it's for very generic home video. or in an emergency 12:57 if you watch dc rainmaker video, he shows an aftermarket plate that is much better than this. 23:00 I use GPS overlays all the time for Bike and walking vids in my channel. absolute deal killer
Not going to lie, I have watched a few other UA-camrs that do camera reviews but you are hands down the best. Maybe a little less production but I think that’s kind of your niche so I don’t hold it against you. Loved this review. Took about 13 or 14 hours to get through it all because life kept taking me away from my iPad. However, I asked you to do a particular video with the step by step on the Insta360 X 3 doing where the viewer gets to pick the view. You sent me a message and I did it and didn’t work. I must be doing something wrong so when you are done all these Hero 12 videos and looking for something to record…I would really appreciate a video on that. As always, appreciate your content and everyone subscribe to this guy and share it to your friends.
3 points - what do people film at 4K 120fps for longer than 30 mins. I'm just thinking about editing. If you slow down 120fps to 30fps, that's a two hour video. Who would watch anything in slow for two hours? 2 - Does no one use buckle mounts? I haven't remove my bite mount from my 11 since I purchased it.
The lack of a GPS is HORRIBLE news for content creators like me. I’ve purchased the Hero 8,9,10,11 and expected to buy the 12. Now, without GPS, there’s no point to buy the 12 because now I can’t overlay telemetry. The GPS chip should’ve been in there with the option to turn it off. Not only that but my GoPro subscription was up in less than 2 weeks. I cancelled as a result since I won't be getting the 12. I must say, I'm shocked at the GPS removal. Bad move GoPro!
Yes, i use the GPS sparingly, but it is nice if you are snorkeling or spearfishing to take a picture and later to see where you were exactly, how far from shore. It can be turned off to conserve battery. Too many steps back with the Hero 12. I bet the improved battery life is compared to the Hero 11 with the GPS on. I doubt the battery life is double if you turn the GPS off on the Hero 11
My last GoPro purchase was the GoPro 8, but I'm looking to upgrade and your post has helped me consider my options. What really caught my attention was the app feature that allows you to see what you're filming - it's definitely my favorite aspect of the camera. Thank you for sharing your insights!
The Ulgy "thing" is even worse for me.... removing the GPS is the only reason why Hero 12 can shoot more minutes before it overheat... The battery in fact is exaclty the same of the Heroe 11... for theese reasons and other of course... i picked an Action 4
I shiould add that i'm thinking of using it for a bike rear camera because of the battery life. 1 battery would cover most rides and 2 pretty much all of them.
If you allow me David I would like to say that Snapmount is not the best way to quickly move your GoPro from a place to another: the metal frame makes it more difficult to touch the screen.... it's good to attach it to metal surfaces, poles, the car... yes, but for other purposes I would rely on other quick release mounts
Great informative vid David, think i will stay with my GoPro10 for the next 12 months as it is still awesome enough for what i use it for. Hopefully the 13 is a bigger upgrade for me.
I kinda feel like they should’ve just pushed out a software update to the 11. They don’t HAVE to launch a slightly different camera every year, especially if the updates are so minimal.
So really nothing bad to say about the GP12. As for your surfboard issue, I have a Ulanzi ball mount that I can twist 180 degrees. (Not sure how it will work in salt water...) As for the touch screen on the front...I can get over that. And not matter what anyone says, the video quality is better than any other action camera - I think people are giving the Action 4 a pass on video quality. The only thing on my wish list is a mic jack. (and as for low light...there's not that much action happening in lowlight or dark conditions)
Thank you for this comprehensive review. There are a few things that I really appreciate. The ability to see the review on your phone is HUGE for me. I think the time code sync would be nice since I almost always shoot two cameras at once and syncing is a pain. Finally they gave us a 1/4-20 mount! When upgraded from Hero7 to Hero11 it was an AMAZING UPGRADE. I don’t see enough here to upgrade to the Hero12 from the Hero11.
The main reason I never parted with my Hero 8s is because it was the last camera which the Quik app allowed you to record and monitor what is recorded thru the app!!....Now it is back on the 12. AWESOME.
GoPro isn't screaming promoting live preview/record function because all of us Hero 11/10/9 owners would be mad that GoPro isn't going to give us the simple software update to get it. And for all of the people that say it's a hardware issue, I don't believe it. If my Hero 11 has the ability to live stream on UA-cam while recording to the SD card at the same time then it can do it.
Per usual, well detailed, great functional info, no bloats, always just what we want to know. Thank you! Thanks for confirming the live view while recording. A 10 minute GoPro promo video does show it. I had the 8 Black, which I swear had recording live view, but then was taken away. The 8 did still have it up to 1080p30fps, not 60, just to 30. I'm not an action guy, so overheating really was bothersome. But was able to overcome it by taking battery out and using usb, or even having the camera sit on a heat sink actually helped to run until the battery died. But not having live view during recording was extremely annoying. I like not being glued behind a camera, and seeing video on a bigger screen. Thanks again for your hard work!
The only way I could stop my GoPro 10 from overheating and shutting down was remove the battery and connect the Volta accessory to the gopro via the USB connection. The GoPro 10 is virtually useless because of battery overheating unless it is used for short clips
Removing the GPS probably was more of a cost reduction. The camera still is kinda the same as the 11. It mainly looks like they only did a few software upgrades, sprayed a few speckles on the outside and some other small things. But keeping the selling price equal. Besides the GPS, I believe they also removed the hardcase from the base kit?
Do you think the Bluetooth audio (lack of) quality is from the Airpods? Have you tried other Bluetooth earbuds to test the quality of the sound? Just curious.
I know this isn't the topic of the video, but I am still trying to figure out how to make the gopro 10 and the lens mod actually work with slow mo, get footage that doesn't show the frame edge in the middle of shots.. Plus the gopro UI is just annoying. Accidentally bumping to photo mode. Maybe moving to the 12 eventually will make things easier, who knows though. I have to say, I don't want another screen to accidentally tap me to the wrong mode. I'd rather have real buttons to do things than touch screens at all.
Thanks for the video. I returned the Hero 11 because it overheated on a 90 degree day in 15 minutes. I am undecided right now and am looking at the Osmo Action 3,4 and Gopro Hero 12.
You should try a metal cage, I was able to record with my GoPro 11 for 4 hours continuously. Metal cage acts like a heat sink. That would be a cool video
Surely the Bluetooth audio has more to do with the air pods than the Bluetooth connection? Why not try the BT audio with a better microphone. Airpods are OK for listening but crappy as a mic.
Thanks for the - as always - lots of good information. The #1 most important thing for me: stabilizer when recording while I'm running. The most important thing #2: recording in low light and at night. I now have to decide whether to buy the GoPro 12 or DJI 4. A comparison video GoPro 12 vs DJI 4 would be helpful for me. Will you do a comparison video GoPro 12 vs DJI 4 ? Best regards
Great video David! I actually like the quick capture on/off because of how I use the camera (for mountain biking). There are times on my rides where I don't need it running and to save battery it's nice that it's only powering up to record and then just shutting off. I don't want to have to worry if I powered down the camera after I stopped recording. LOVE they upgraded the Max Lens Mod to now shoot in 4k and it can be used with other modes. Probably the main reason I ended up getting it. Also loved the bluetooth audio connectivity feature but agree, using your air pods or any small wireless headphones will not sound good because the microphones in those units are only built for phone use, not audio recording. So it's really not a downside of the camera, but more so the poor quality of the mics inside those wireless headphones. Just a pro-tip! 😉 Now if only I can connect my DJI Mics to the GoPro via bluetooth, that would be a game changer!
I watched your video on the 11 v Action 4 and jumped over to see your 12 review. Thanks for the great advice. I'm thinking of getting the 12. Currently, I have a 9.
When you do the Hero 12 vs Action 4 comparison, can you compare file size at 4K 60FPS? My DJI cameras produce much larger files, almost twice as big, when the quality is comparable. How much footage can you put on a 64GB memory card with each camera?
Why are you using the Bluetooth option clearly in a wireless mic use scenario. The Bluetooth option is for while your in your vehicle with cameras mounted outside and other situations as this.
Really good review, you do a really good job of covering the important aspects without dragging it out too long. The side by sides are always informative, but I slow them down to 1/2 or 1/4 speed to really get a look. I ordered a 12 as I have an 11 (and a 4) and wanted a second cam with all the modern tricks. I may switch to DJI in the future as I have their drone and mics, but not yet on the cams, it's getting tough though.
Ugh the audio using BT is completely garbage! DJI Action 4 with the DJI wireless mics is the way to go. I just wish DJI would give us the 8:7. That is the only thing that has me considering the gopro. Still not sure it’s worth it. Not sure why Gopro hasn’t added a good wireless option that interstates directly into their cameras. Currently using go pro 10. Trying to work out which new action camera to pickup.
So, another ho-hum GoPro. Got it. After owning about 10 GoPro's from the 3+ to the 10, I left GoPro for DJI. Couldn't be happier. No more glitching, no more overheating, no more battery pulls just because, then you lose the footage.
The Bluetooth feature paired with the Apple earbuds may sound bad because they're not high-quality microphones they are just for talking could on phone calls could iit be?
I've been exclusively using GoPro Hero 5 Black for all my POV shots since 2017. Every time GoPro comes out with a new camera, I try it out, only to find that GoPro Hero 5 Black is still the best GoPro if you need long continuous runtimes and no overheating/freezing issues. IT JUST WORKS.
In addition to no overheating issues, the GoPro Hero 5 Black beat the GoPro 11 in these categories (tested in identical settings):
-Closeup focus (GoPro 11 can't focus as close up as 5)
-Battery life
-Image noise/compression artifacts
-Size
-Price
After I performed this test a few months ago, I put my GoPro 11 away and bought 4 more GoPro 5 Black cameras off facebook marketplace, which should last me enough years until GoPro makes a camera that finally beats the Hero 5 Black.
Wooooow!!! I had no idea about it. 😮
You should test it against the DJI Action 4.
agree i just traded in my 11 and still use my 5 hero black
It's hard to take this company serious after the 9, the 10, the 11 and now the 12 that suffers from the same problem. They all have the same formfactor, actually exactly the same case. The problem seems to be the generated heat inside which is going to make it overheat at some point. That they were facing that problem at the 9, and maybe the 10, that could happen. But then we got the 11 and now the 12 with exactly the same problem... You would have expected that they had adjusted something in the case by now to eliminate this. For example installing more heatsinks to conduct the heat to the outside. They could have used aluminum parts on the outside to achieve this (now heat only gets conducted by the screens).
I had used my Sjcam M10+ for a long while on trips. It was a budget action cam out of 2016 for just €60. And I always used within the protective and completely closed diving case. That camera just kept working and ran for over 1.5 hours until the batteries ran out. Used my Hero11 (a €400 camera out of 2022 to put it in comparison) on the same settings during my trip in Colombia this year. Without case and on the same settings the camera was shutting down within 15min. due to overheating already at some places.
I got into filming my stuff way after the Hero 5, but I'll say this...my Hero 8 is WAY better than all of the newer versions and everyone I know that has the 8 LOVES it.
So if you can't find a 5, get an 8.
I was trying to sell my GoPro 11 before the release to get the upgrade, but after seeing it in action, I am not disappointed that it didn’t sell. I did get the Snap mount on your recommendation last year though, and that has been a game changer for my channel.
Fidlock magnetic mount is better. Ulanzi also makes a good one.
Love that you're digging SnapMounts! And yeah, if you've got a Hero 11, I can't imagine a reason you would upgrade to the 12 unless you're on a commercial set and GP-Log or Timecode sync are a necessity. The 11 is still super dope!
Definitely love the SNAP mounts as well. I have a gopro 9. Kind of tempted to upgrade for the increased processor speeds but not totally sold.
The 11 has GPS, it's superior to the 12. @@DavidManningvlog
@@ec-uploads I couldn't care less about GPS, and a lot of people are like that. In fact, I prefer privacy with most footage I would take. Location data, location tracking is a big problem right now. GPS was gimmicky for most users. I'll admit it's great for some, but if gps is important, there are many other ways to get that data too. Synced gps data with footage overlay, let's face it the majority aren't looking at it. I guarantee there's a workaround with phones and other external tooling.
This video single handedly helped me decide to return my new GoPro 11 that I got for my Birthday a week ago. I waited to open it, knowing a 12 was likely imminent! I’m a huge customer of GoPro, but the 11 was sort of a “firmware” update of the 10, and this 12 isn’t doing much to impress, unless you like sparkles!
So I’m personally planning on returning my 11, not buying the 12, and waiting ‘till Black Friday and will likely get another 9 or maybe a 10 depending on those deals. Happy shopping and recording everyone! 👍⚓️
look at the action 4 maybe you would like it
Get a insta360 camera they have everything GoPro doesn’t!
If you have a GoPro subscription I've got a broken Hero 9 I'd part with for dirt cheap and you can exchange it for a new one to GoPro for $99 I believe. Personally for my use I thought the software stability between the 9 and 11 were night and day so I had zero interest in using another 9 so I never replaced it.
The release of the Hero 12 has been the best advertising DJI could have wanted for their Osmo Action 4!
David
Thank you but everyone will now want to see a show down with the Osmo action 4 look forward to this
I’m really enjoying the fact that you include family in your videos!
So, in conclusion, the Hero 12 is basically a Hero 11 with a firmware upgrade?
Yes, $399 for a software update
Go pro has always been that way they haven’t innovated in years. Always buy insta 360
@@justinclancy9125my insta 360 x3 has a audio video sync issue and I’m on my second unit with the same issue. I would never buy a insta product again. There are many people who use it for actual vlogs and audio and video have a synchronized mismatch of lips and audio
Wrong - it’s a Hero 11 with a firmware update AND shiny blue sparkles. Don‘t forget the sparkles!!! So worth it 😂
@@gommeextra so true!!! and remember the 1/4 inch mount…. true hardware innovation!!!
Seems like the GP12 is more of a software upgrade and not so much of a hardware upgrade. If that’s mostly true, then they are charging $399 for a software update? I just feel like there should have been more hardware innovation in the GP12. Still a good camera but I’m happy with my Action 4 camera. I hope both companies push each other to innovate more
same feelings. Kind of prefer action4 right now. The magnetic system and batter life without overheating. The lowlights capability and under water color are just amazing!
I got the Hero 12 as a birthday gift from my family and I love it! My first GoPro. I’m just using it as a daily carry and vlogging camera. Great little tool.
Ok already need the dji 4 vs GoPro 12 now
I am so glad I did not wait for the 12 to come out and purchased the Dji Action 4. The only reason the GoPro battery is lasting longer is the lack of a GPS system inside. Thanks for the excellent video, I look forward to the next one.
Coming from a GoPro 8, I ordered a 12. Often times reviews compare to previous gen, but some of us don't upgrade yearly. 8 -> 12 is a significant upgrade in terms of quality and performance.
8 to 11 would do the trick or 8 to Action 4
I still use an GP8 as well. I need more cameras. Undecided 12 or OA4.
OA4 go for that…or wait for future versions of GoPro.
A Hero 10 would give you almost the same performance for $250, just without a couple little motion gimmicks. Sure, it's software didn't get some much-needed bug fixes, but the 12 isn't going to get those fixes either. This company doesn't support its products... yet they still charge a subscription. When they figure out how to fix their software for real, they'll just sell it to you as another new camera.
I am still using a GoPro7. I definitely need to upgrade. lol
So far the most comprehensive and relevant review I have seen. Wish I could give it more than one 👍. A modest update it seems, that’s ok. And you were right…I couldn’t see the HDR difference, but on UA-cam difficult to see slight improvements on anything, AirPods didn’t sound great, I can see how it could work ok sometimes though. I would have added to the bad list the lack of ability to connect an external mic unless you buy the media mod or an external adapter. Not a new thing however.
When I bought my Hero 9 several years ago, I did get the media mod for several reasons, one was the cold shoe for things like wireless mics (have the Hollywood lark 150), of course, the audio connector on the back of the media mod. The built in mics are good for some things and infinitely better than the ones on the actual camera.
While the preview function while recording is missing on the Hero 9, it's not been a deal breaker as I can set the shot up before recording and chances are, it comes out fine when done. Also, there is the front screen that I keep on so it's there to check things when possible/needed.
Having TC sync is nice as I can, if it'll work with 3rd party timecode generators like the Octopus and can jam sync everything, even my Hero 9 with an outboard timecode generator. I have already modded my camera mounts to one type to the Arca Swiss family of mounts, though not from Arca Swiss itself, but ones off of Amazon and I can swap cameras from one tripod to another etc. One thing I may do is get an external audio recorder so if I loose the audio on the camera, I have a backup.
Seems to me GoPro is now the Apple of action cameras. Like the iPhone…their action camera was first to do something “game changing” with a type of technology. Now it is a combination of incremental upgrades of questionable value, things that others were already able to do (e.g. viewing a video in the app as you are recording), and software improvements that they could add to their existing camera(s), but they force people to upgrade to get (which isn’t actually customer-friendly).
Don’t get me wrong. They may still be the best action camera, but I feel that DJI and Insta360 are truly innovative. Maybe when the 13 comes out I’ll upgrade, but my GoPro HERO 10 remains enough, especially augmented with my Action 4 and GO 3.
P.S. As usual, great video. I also like that I leave your videos feeling better than before I started watching. Appreciate your personality.
24:46 in, I'm being honest when I say that made your entire video worth watching all the way through! Especially the fall off the suitcase! I was howling!! 😂
I feel like GoPro should calm down on the versions haha. I wish they brought back the GoPro Session. That little cube was amazing!
Yep, still have two myself... We're built like tanks
Removing the GPS helped the overheating tremendously. It also removed a cost element that allowed them to reduce the price without reducing the margin so much.
Yes... but... no GPS!!!
You can turn the GPS off to conserve battery, so that was not a real issue.
But it still overheats.........hi Action 4
I will not buy any action cam without GPS. Bye, bye, Gopro
@@rpf1965why GPS is so important?
Another plus regarding the bluetooth mic is that you can control the camera remotely by voice now even when the GoPro is out of normal voice range. It's evolution more than revolution, but they're going to need to something considerably more impressive next year.
One thing to keep in mind and this will go for most cameras that are small, including mirrorless and DSLR types are the bodies do not allow adequate airflow for the internal components inside, and the big one is the sensor itself and one big issue with the GoPro, and other action cameras are the really small bodies so heat gets trapped and do better with adequate airflow. Marcus P did a test of several of the mirrorless/DSLR cameras and the camcorders, on a hot day, in full sunlight, I forget if HD or not (if HD, over 1080P) but all the smaller mirrorless/DSLR cameras all failed in the desert sun, most crapping out before 30 minutes, some much sooner, but all the camcorders were still recording. This is due to the larger bodies of even the small consumer cheap camcorders were superior to most of the other smaller cameras as far as handling the heat.
I have the H9 and so far have not had overheating issues, but I also shoot in 1080P. Even many phones will overheat after several minutes when shooting 4K. 4K shooting will generate quite a bit more heat in general and do be aware that unless doing action shooting, most of us can get away with shooting much less as much of what you use when editing are seconds, if not frames of a clip anyway, so running your camera say, no more than 5 minutes at a time will give you plenty to choose from.
BT is not a major thing for me as I use a wireless lav with the media mod, and you can likely still get the adapter that plugs into the USB port with the pass through door in place to plug your mic into if you do not get the media mod. I got the media mod for that reason and to attach a small battery light to it, and can run an external power brick with a USB cable if I need to.
I'd be interested in this camera for GP-Log and TC sync. I would hope it can interface with 3rd party devices like the Octopus for jam syncing multiple cameras as needed. Having the preview still be functional while recording is nice, but not a deal breaker with my H9 as I can set up the shot with the phone, then hit record anyway.
Overall, a good review of a really new camera. BTW, I personally don't do action video, but may be outside doing yard work, taking the camera to the beach or mountains etc and have found that what you use for media cards will make or break your success with the GoPro and Samsung SD cards seem to be liked better with my GoPro than Sandisk, of which came with my camera when I bought it new.
Hey David everyone is actually looking for the showdown between dji action 4 and the hero 12😢
About the bluetooth feature, i can imagine it might be more interesting with other microphones than airpods. I'm not sure if there are good dedicated bluetooth mics, but i can imagine they work much more convenient that having a wireless mic and needing an adapter mounted on the GoPro. I definitely like the idea, and who knows, if a bluetoot connection to microphones gets supported more, maybe Rode, Sennheiser etc. might actually make really high quality bluetooth mics.
Honestly, i wish my fullframe camera could support bluetooth for both microphones and headphones, since even just being able to recieve audio feedback on the headphone might be really useful here and there. I definitely appreciate the idea to implement it on the GoPro, even if it might need microphone manufacturers to tag along for maximum benefit
Yeah, that's exactly what I was thinking and why I had it in the GOOD and the BAD category. Killer idea as a feature, but we need support for third parties to make a really good solution for the GoPro. Hoping the third party market comes to the rescue on this one!
Or just make a built in mic connection so we can ditch the media mod!!! That thing is a pita!!!
I was also wondering about the Bluetooth sound quality being more about the Airpods than anything else. When coworkers who use Airpods for Zoom meetings, their audio quality is pretty bad.
It can use any BT mic, not just AirPods.
Thanks for the review David. I have 4 questions:-
1) Is HDR video mode available in other shooting modes such as Night Lapse video. It would be good if you could expose for the night sky and then say a cityscape below the night sky.
2) Is it true HDR REC2020 video or is it just frame blending?
3) Will the Max Lens Mod 2.0 work on the 9/10/11?
4) Is there 120 FPS for 2.7k on the Max Lens Mod 2.0?
HDR is frame blending, not rec.2020. 120fps is on the MLM 2.0 but in 1080p, currently with a maximum FOV of Max Superview.
@@simonwyndham awesome thanks for confirming that. I had someone tell me it was REC2020 but the live feed I watched with Abe said frame blending.
And 1080P 120FPS is still going to be quite useful. 👍
No GPS = Better battery life (longer time not over heating) 😏 I’m a GP11 user and was excited about the audio upgrade but no. I’ll wait until next year. Happy with my GP11
makes perfect sense.
Cool David, always ahead of everyone!🤩 I decided to sell my GoPro11 and no more GoPro unless overheat issues ends. DJI Action 4 and Insta360 Go3 are way better and reliable.
Invisalign bro, get that tooth fixed. I’m in my 25th week with just a few more weeks to go and I’m surprised and impressed how well it has worked for me.
HDR video... spin the camera around and shoot the thing backlight... let's see how it handles shooting into the sun!
11:35 I think best to have a separate mic for anything UA-cam and up for professionals. I think you demonstrated the advantage but the quality is not good enough unless it's for very generic home video. or in an emergency
12:57 if you watch dc rainmaker video, he shows an aftermarket plate that is much better than this.
23:00 I use GPS overlays all the time for Bike and walking vids in my channel. absolute deal killer
Not going to lie, I have watched a few other UA-camrs that do camera reviews but you are hands down the best. Maybe a little less production but I think that’s kind of your niche so I don’t hold it against you. Loved this review. Took about 13 or 14 hours to get through it all because life kept taking me away from my iPad. However, I asked you to do a particular video with the step by step on the Insta360 X 3 doing where the viewer gets to pick the view. You sent me a message and I did it and didn’t work. I must be doing something wrong so when you are done all these Hero 12 videos and looking for something to record…I would really appreciate a video on that. As always, appreciate your content and everyone subscribe to this guy and share it to your friends.
Do a full max lens 2.0 video!
3 points - what do people film at 4K 120fps for longer than 30 mins. I'm just thinking about editing. If you slow down 120fps to 30fps, that's a two hour video. Who would watch anything in slow for two hours? 2 - Does no one use buckle mounts? I haven't remove my bite mount from my 11 since I purchased it.
The lack of a GPS is HORRIBLE news for content creators like me. I’ve purchased the Hero 8,9,10,11 and expected to buy the 12. Now, without GPS, there’s no point to buy the 12 because now I can’t overlay telemetry. The GPS chip should’ve been in there with the option to turn it off. Not only that but my GoPro subscription was up in less than 2 weeks. I cancelled as a result since I won't be getting the 12. I must say, I'm shocked at the GPS removal. Bad move GoPro!
Yes, i use the GPS sparingly, but it is nice if you are snorkeling or spearfishing to take a picture and later to see where you were exactly, how far from shore. It can be turned off to conserve battery. Too many steps back with the Hero 12. I bet the improved battery life is compared to the Hero 11 with the GPS on. I doubt the battery life is double if you turn the GPS off on the Hero 11
My last GoPro purchase was the GoPro 8, but I'm looking to upgrade and your post has helped me consider my options. What really caught my attention was the app feature that allows you to see what you're filming - it's definitely my favorite aspect of the camera. Thank you for sharing your insights!
The Ulgy "thing" is even worse for me.... removing the GPS is the only reason why Hero 12 can shoot more minutes before it overheat... The battery in fact is exaclty the same of the Heroe 11... for theese reasons and other of course... i picked an Action 4
The active preview while recording in the app works on my 11 too. Basically an app feature and not a gopro 12 feature.
Your GoPro videos are my favorite GoPro videos. Props for taking the time to orchestrate a legit hurricane to be part of your testing 🫨
Great endings!!! Lol 😂😂😂 nice review! Love the good bad n ugly sections!
I shiould add that i'm thinking of using it for a bike rear camera because of the battery life. 1 battery would cover most rides and 2 pretty much all of them.
If you allow me David I would like to say that Snapmount is not the best way to quickly move your GoPro from a place to another: the metal frame makes it more difficult to touch the screen.... it's good to attach it to metal surfaces, poles, the car... yes, but for other purposes I would rely on other quick release mounts
I want to upgrade from 9 to 12. I like the 4k 120fps, Bluetooth mic, HDR and 9:16resolution
Great informative vid David, think i will stay with my GoPro10 for the next 12 months as it is still awesome enough for what i use it for. Hopefully the 13 is a bigger upgrade for me.
same
I kinda feel like they should’ve just pushed out a software update to the 11. They don’t HAVE to launch a slightly different camera every year, especially if the updates are so minimal.
So really nothing bad to say about the GP12. As for your surfboard issue, I have a Ulanzi ball mount that I can twist 180 degrees. (Not sure how it will work in salt water...) As for the touch screen on the front...I can get over that. And not matter what anyone says, the video quality is better than any other action camera - I think people are giving the Action 4 a pass on video quality. The only thing on my wish list is a mic jack. (and as for low light...there's not that much action happening in lowlight or dark conditions)
David my only question to you is will it work. I dont trust. And please compare with action 4. I am thinking of action 4
A firmware upgrade. Got it. No wonder why the had a media embargo until today
Thanks going to buy dji action 4 thanks
you could have demonstrated the AutoBoost at 9:09 with how much you waved your hands about, hahaha much love
That quick app feature could have been a software/firmware update for previous models
maybe they could do what insta 360 have done and the GPS can be saved in a remote or something
GOPRO VS DJI
WHO WOULD BE THE FIRST TO ADD A CINEMATIC MODE ON ACTION CAMERA
Thank you for this comprehensive review. There are a few things that I really appreciate. The ability to see the review on your phone is HUGE for me. I think the time code sync would be nice since I almost always shoot two cameras at once and syncing is a pain. Finally they gave us a 1/4-20 mount! When upgraded from Hero7 to Hero11 it was an AMAZING UPGRADE. I don’t see enough here to upgrade to the Hero12 from the Hero11.
When is the settings video coming out I hate messing with settings just tell me what to do lol
Hahhaa! Soon!
BACKGROUND BLUR IS AVAILABLE EVEN ON CHEAP PHONES WHY NOT ON THIS EXPENSIVE NEW UPDATE ACTION CAMS
I loved your review, you touched on many of things I was interested in learning more about on the new Hero 12. Thanks for sharing.
That’s was cool that you went to Cabo, I’m from Baja my self, but live in US.
The main reason I never parted with my Hero 8s is because it was the last camera which the Quik app allowed you to record and monitor what is recorded thru the app!!....Now it is back on the 12. AWESOME.
GoPro isn't screaming promoting live preview/record function because all of us Hero 11/10/9 owners would be mad that GoPro isn't going to give us the simple software update to get it. And for all of the people that say it's a hardware issue, I don't believe it. If my Hero 11 has the ability to live stream on UA-cam while recording to the SD card at the same time then it can do it.
Per usual, well detailed, great functional info, no bloats, always just what we want to know. Thank you!
Thanks for confirming the live view while recording. A 10 minute GoPro promo video does show it. I had the 8 Black, which I swear had recording live view, but then was taken away. The 8 did still have it up to 1080p30fps, not 60, just to 30. I'm not an action guy, so overheating really was bothersome. But was able to overcome it by taking battery out and using usb, or even having the camera sit on a heat sink actually helped to run until the battery died. But not having live view during recording was extremely annoying. I like not being glued behind a camera, and seeing video on a bigger screen. Thanks again for your hard work!
The only way I could stop my GoPro 10 from overheating and shutting down was remove the battery and connect the Volta accessory to the gopro via the USB connection. The GoPro 10 is virtually useless because of battery overheating unless it is used for short clips
Removing the GPS probably was more of a cost reduction. The camera still is kinda the same as the 11. It mainly looks like they only did a few software upgrades, sprayed a few speckles on the outside and some other small things. But keeping the selling price equal.
Besides the GPS, I believe they also removed the hardcase from the base kit?
Do you think the Bluetooth audio (lack of) quality is from the Airpods? Have you tried other Bluetooth earbuds to test the quality of the sound? Just curious.
The video title reminds me of the classic Clinteastwood movie 'The good the bad and the ugly '
Well then you sir like the same movies that I do!
@@DavidManningvlog Yes David and Great video too
I know this isn't the topic of the video, but I am still trying to figure out how to make the gopro 10 and the lens mod actually work with slow mo, get footage that doesn't show the frame edge in the middle of shots.. Plus the gopro UI is just annoying. Accidentally bumping to photo mode. Maybe moving to the 12 eventually will make things easier, who knows though.
I have to say, I don't want another screen to accidentally tap me to the wrong mode. I'd rather have real buttons to do things than touch screens at all.
the audio bluetooth, i think it depends on the quality of the mic you use for bluetooth
Thanks for the video. I returned the Hero 11 because it overheated on a 90 degree day in 15 minutes. I am undecided right now and am looking at the Osmo Action 3,4 and Gopro Hero 12.
The upgrade is very small. Most important is the content of the video, than the minor contrast in colour or shadow
Love the airpod Bluetooth capabilities
I'm definitely keen to see some GoPro vs DJI low-light comparisons!
I'm only interested in how a bluetooth mic will work with the 12 for motovloging purposes...in a helmet.
You should try a metal cage, I was able to record with my GoPro 11 for 4 hours continuously. Metal cage acts like a heat sink. That would be a cool video
Video is nice and informative
Surely the Bluetooth audio has more to do with the air pods than the Bluetooth connection? Why not try the BT audio with a better microphone. Airpods are OK for listening but crappy as a mic.
I've tried a few now and it's for sure the bluetooth that's creating that audio. AirPods sound great in other use cases
I was really hoping at least for a one inch sensor and larger aperture. 4:2:2 10 bit would have been nice. Loving the insta369 1 inch
1 inch sensor plus a wider aperture wouldn’t work with a fixed focus action camera.
Thanks for the - as always - lots of good information.
The #1 most important thing for me: stabilizer when recording while I'm running.
The most important thing #2: recording in low light and at night.
I now have to decide whether to buy the GoPro 12 or DJI 4.
A comparison video GoPro 12 vs DJI 4 would be helpful for me.
Will you do a comparison video GoPro 12 vs DJI 4 ?
Best regards
Great video David!
I actually like the quick capture on/off because of how I use the camera (for mountain biking). There are times on my rides where I don't need it running and to save battery it's nice that it's only powering up to record and then just shutting off. I don't want to have to worry if I powered down the camera after I stopped recording.
LOVE they upgraded the Max Lens Mod to now shoot in 4k and it can be used with other modes. Probably the main reason I ended up getting it.
Also loved the bluetooth audio connectivity feature but agree, using your air pods or any small wireless headphones will not sound good because the microphones in those units are only built for phone use, not audio recording. So it's really not a downside of the camera, but more so the poor quality of the mics inside those wireless headphones. Just a pro-tip! 😉
Now if only I can connect my DJI Mics to the GoPro via bluetooth, that would be a game changer!
I suspect if you disable GPS on the hero 11 you’ll get similar battery run time compared to the new 12.
i wonder if they took out gps for the heating improvement, would make sense
haha or an excuse for them to upsell the remote too
Live View on the app while recording! Yeeewww! Awesome!
Full comparison hero 12 vs dji action 4 please like you didn't hero 11 vs action 3
Hopefully the Bluetooth audio fix will be handled with a simple software/firmware update.
Yess was waiting for your in depth review!
Great comprehensive and honest video! Thanks David :)
Can you add in your testing somehow of how the GoPro does with no battery and external powered. If it over heats and how long until it does.
Есть отдельное устройство для GPS? Dji есть а у gopro есть?
Ahh come on David, someone… you know who 😂 It looks so nice and sunny out there ☀️
I watched your video on the 11 v Action 4 and jumped over to see your 12 review. Thanks for the great advice. I'm thinking of getting the 12. Currently, I have a 9.
Still #1! I’ve been waiting for these upgrades for years!
Great job on the video David! Thanks for making it.
When you do the Hero 12 vs Action 4 comparison, can you compare file size at 4K 60FPS? My DJI cameras produce much larger files, almost twice as big, when the quality is comparable. How much footage can you put on a 64GB memory card with each camera?
Do you have a channel where we can watch your action camera footage, your surfing videos and other action sports
Why are you using the Bluetooth option clearly in a wireless mic use scenario. The Bluetooth option is for while your in your vehicle with cameras mounted outside and other situations as this.
Great review. The best 'voice' in reviewing tech overall! Hah!
Excellent review and your footage is awesome. AND FINALLY, I can see (monitor) the camera with the cell phone app. YEAH!!!!
Really good review, you do a really good job of covering the important aspects without dragging it out too long. The side by sides are always informative, but I slow them down to 1/2 or 1/4 speed to really get a look. I ordered a 12 as I have an 11 (and a 4) and wanted a second cam with all the modern tricks. I may switch to DJI in the future as I have their drone and mics, but not yet on the cams, it's getting tough though.
Ugh the audio using BT is completely garbage! DJI Action 4 with the DJI wireless mics is the way to go. I just wish DJI would give us the 8:7. That is the only thing that has me considering the gopro. Still not sure it’s worth it. Not sure why Gopro hasn’t added a good wireless option that interstates directly into their cameras.
Currently using go pro 10. Trying to work out which new action camera to pickup.
So, another ho-hum GoPro. Got it. After owning about 10 GoPro's from the 3+ to the 10, I left GoPro for DJI. Couldn't be happier. No more glitching, no more overheating, no more battery pulls just because, then you lose the footage.
I didn't see a difference with HDR video and non HDR and didnt see the crop for stabilisation...🤔😆
Like my Hero 9, the Hero 12 batteries overheat when shooting continuously for 15+ minutes
The Bluetooth feature paired with the Apple earbuds may sound bad because they're not high-quality microphones they are just for talking could on phone calls could iit be?
Auto boost is genius. Love it
They wont allow the audio to be good with the bluetooth because if they do, they wont sell the mic adapters and media mods anymore, so...
Overheating... If i use my new 12 in like 15 degrees C... That would not be a problem, right?
It's going to be mainly frame rate dependent. At higher frame rates, you'll see overheating, but if you're shooting 24 or 30fps, you're good to go👍