Go Pro HERO5 12 MP

Last updated: August 6, 2023

Go Pro HERO5 12 MP
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We looked at the top Digital Cameras and dug through the reviews from some of the most popular review sites. Through this analysis, we've determined the best Digital Camera you should buy.

Overall Take

Introduced in 2016, the GoPro Hero5 still remains an excellent value camera. Newer models have upgraded video capabilities, but it boasts most of the key features of the modern action cameras at a fraction of the cost. It has user-friendly features like a convenient touch display, voice activation and ready-to-go waterproof design. It captures video in 4K and 12-megapixel images with multiple shooting modes.

In our analysis of 88 expert reviews, the Go Pro HERO5 12 MP placed 14th when we looked at the top 16 products in the category. For the full ranking, see below.

From The Manufacturer

Capture different with HERO5 Black. Share immersive 4K perspectives that make you feel like you’re there. HERO5 Black makes it easy with its one-button simplicity, convenient touch display and ready-to-go waterproof design. Smooth, stabilized video, crystal-clear audio, and pro-quality photo capture combine with voice control and GPS to make HERO5 Black the most impressive GoPro ever. And when it’s time to edit and share, HERO5 Black automatically uploads footage to your GoPro Plus cloud account to provide easy access on any device. Then, create amazing videos automatically with Quick, the GoPro mobile editing app. Your life as you’ve never seen it-HERO5 Black.

Expert Reviews


What experts liked

Three shooting modes with 4K video and 12MP photos. Waterproof up to 33 ft. without buying a separate case.
Not needing to worry about dropping the Hero 5 Black into an accompanying waterproof case is a time-saver you don’t really appreciate until you’re constantly moving around or taking impromptu dips in the middle of a hot and sweaty Vietnam day.
Battery-smooth 4K video comes as standard with the Hero5 Black, while a touchscreen interface and voice activation makes it the most user-friendly GoPro to date.
The GoPro Hero5 Black is a true flagship camera with all the shooting options from its predecessor plus raw and wide dynamic range photo capture and linear field of view video, a touchscreen, a waterproof body, GPS, electronic image stabilization, stereo audio, voice control, the option for auto cloud uploads, and the best photo and video quality in a GoPro.
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Image quality has gotten much better, with far more detail, less noise, and a wider dynamic range.
- Wired
The screen provides enough space for plain-English descriptions of each function along with graphical examples, rather than the terse abbreviations you get on a non-touchscreen model
- Forbes
The Hero5 Black's redesigned body is waterproof to 33 feet without needing a protective case.

What experts didn't like

Two-hour battery life means you may need to buy a second battery to shoot all day.
Sometimes taps at the screen aren’t registered, but more often my problem was with swiping into the screen from the edges.
However, it doesn't feel as robust without its plastic casing, and that touchscreen can be awkward to use.
Battery life, especially with GPS, Wi-Fi and EIS on, is predictably short and the camera is not compatible with older batterie
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View our Digital Camera buying guide for in-depth advice and recommendations.

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