Upgrade Guide
GoPro MAX→GoPro HERO12 Black
Is it worth upgrading? Spec analysis, key improvements, and our verdict.
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Worthwhile
Clear improvements over the MAX. Whether it justifies the cost depends on which upgrades matter most to your shooting.
What's new in the HERO12 Black
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Resolution27MP vs 17MP (+10MP)
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Generation4 years newer (2023 vs 2019)
Suitability by genre
Base scores — computed from verified specs for an enthusiast shooting photo and video. The Upgrade Checker adjusts them for your skill level.
| Genre | MAX | HERO12 Black | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sports & Action | — | ||
| Vlogging & Video | — | ||
| Travel | — | ||
| Underwater | — | ||
| Casual | — |
Full spec comparison
| Spec | MAX | HERO12 Black | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | £259 | £300 | |
| Released | 2019 | 2023 | ↑ |
| Sensor | Dual 360° sensors | 1/1.9" CMOS | |
| Resolution | 17MP | 27MP | ↑ |
| Video | 5.6K 360° (stitched), 1440p HERO mode | 5.3K 60fps, 4K 120fps, 10-bit GP-Log | |
| Autofocus | — | Fixed focus (wide) | |
| Stabilisation | Max HyperSmooth (EIS) | HyperSmooth 6.0 (EIS) | |
| Burst Rate | — | 27MP RAW burst | |
| Battery Life | — | ~70 min at 5.3K/30p (Enduro battery) | |
| Weight | — | 154g (with battery) | |
| Weather Sealed | Yes | Yes | |
| Viewfinder | — | 2.27" rear touchscreen + 1.4" front display | |
| Screen | — | 2.27" rear touchscreen; 1.4" front colour display | |
| Mount | Fixed dual lens (360°) | Fixed lens (12–39 mm-eq f/2.5) | |
| Memory Cards | 1× microSD | 1× microSD (A2 V30) |
Compare side-by-side
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Tell us what you shoot and we'll score the HERO12 Black against your specific genres — not just specs.
Other upgrades from the MAX
Related buying guides
Camera family history