Between the HERO (2024) and HERO12 Black, the HERO (2024) comes out ahead in several specs, while the HERO12 Black wins on max 4k fps and waterproof depth. Overall, the HERO (2024) scores 35 and the HERO12 Black scores 95 on our Mars Score.
Which should you buy?
The HERO12 Black is the clear pick on raw spec strength, leading by 60.0 points on the Mars Score. The margin is wide enough that the underdog only makes sense if its individual strengths line up with what you specifically need.
The HERO (2024) doesn't pull ahead on any single popular-comparison spec — its strengths sit in the spec table groups rather than the headline advantages.
Pick the HERO12 Black if you care most about max 4k fps and waterproof depth. Its strongest claims are max 4k fps, waterproof depth, horizon lock, among others.
Both ship with comparable stabilization, so those specs don't separate the two — focus on the differences below.
Bottom line: the HERO12 Black is the safer default. The other model is the right choice only when its specific advantages line up with your priorities.
Why GoPro - HERO (2024) wins
- No decisive advantages.
Why GoPro - HERO12 Black wins
- ▲Max 4K fps — 300.00% more. 120 vs 30.
- ▲Waterproof depth — 100.00% more. 10 m vs 5 m.
- ▲Has Horizon lock.
- ▲Max video: 5.3K (vs 4K30).
Spec comparison
Video
| Spec | GoPro - HERO (2024) | GoPro - HERO12 Black |
|---|---|---|
| Max video | 4K30 | 5.3Klead |
| Max 4K fps | 30 | 120lead |
| HDRⓘ | false | truelead |
| Log profileⓘ | false | truelead |
Stabilization
| Spec | GoPro - HERO (2024) | GoPro - HERO12 Black |
|---|---|---|
| Horizon lock | false | truelead |
| Stabilization | advanced | advanced |
Durability
| Spec | GoPro - HERO (2024) | GoPro - HERO12 Black |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproof depth | 5 m | 10 mlead |
| Weight | 86 glead | 154 g |
| Removable lens | false | false |
Spec-level deep dives
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