iPhone 15 vs GoPro Hero 12 Black Camera Comparison
Introduction: New Camera Systems Put to the Test
The latest battle in the world of cameras comes down to two heavyweights: the GoPro Hero 12 Black and the iPhone 15. Apple has highlighted the iPhone 15’s new camera system, which includes an “Action Mode” designed to enhance stabilization during high-movement scenarios. But how does it compare to the tried-and-true action camera, the GoPro Hero 12 Black? In this article, we’ll put these two cameras to the test in various scenarios to see how they stack up.
Side-by-Side Testing: iPhone 15 vs. GoPro Hero 12 Black
To understand how these devices perform, we tested them in both action-packed and everyday situations. This comparison will cover everything from daytime to nighttime, from simple walks to full-speed sprints. Let’s start with a walking test.
Walking Test with Action Mode
When you enable Action Mode on the iPhone 15, the resolution is reduced to 2.8K, and there’s a noticeable crop in the image. The Action Mode automatically switches to the wide camera, providing a broader field of view. While this is great for capturing more of your surroundings, it’s worth noting the slight reduction in detail due to the lower resolution. The iPhone 15 allows you to switch back to the 1X camera, which crops in again but offers a closer view.
Running Test and Side-by-Side Comparison
Next, we compared the stabilization of the iPhone 15 and GoPro Hero 12 Black while jogging and sprinting. The iPhone 15, with Action Mode enabled, cropped the image slightly more than the GoPro, which maintained a wider field of view. However, both devices performed well in terms of stabilization, keeping the footage smooth even during fast movements.
Full Speed Sprint and Jumping Tests
To push these cameras further, we tested them during a full-speed sprint and a jumping sequence. The results showed that both the GoPro Hero 12 Black and the iPhone 15 handled the fast-moving scenes effectively, though the iPhone’s Action Mode did crop in more than the GoPro. In a jumping test—like a slow-motion cannonball into the water—both cameras captured the action clearly, though the iPhone 15 stood out with sharper water droplets, while the GoPro appeared slightly softer.
Waterproof Capabilities: iPhone 15 in Action
The iPhone 15, like its predecessors, is waterproof, making it capable of handling underwater shots without any issues. During our testing in colder, shallow water, the iPhone 15 performed well. It’s important to rinse off saltwater after use to prevent corrosion, but overall, it’s built to withstand aquatic adventures.
Audio Quality and Mountain Biking Test
While cruising at 20 miles per hour, we tested the audio quality of both devices. The GoPro Hero 12 Black and iPhone 15 provided clear audio, though the environment’s noise levels affected the clarity.
Mountain biking presented more of a challenge. The iPhone 15 struggled a bit with stabilization on rough trails compared to the GoPro, which is designed for extreme sports and handled the vibrations better. Despite this, the iPhone 15 captured the essence of the action, making it a viable option for less intense outdoor activities.
Stabilization on Mountain Trails
During our mountain biking tests, the GoPro Hero 12 Black showed slight vibrations, while the iPhone 15 footage was fuzzier during particularly jarring moments. The iPhone 15’s stabilization appears to have taken a step back compared to the previous iPhone 14 Pro, which was surprising given the improvements promised by the new Action Mode.
Aerial and Car Stabilization Tests
Taking the cameras to the skies, we attached them to a drone to test aerial stabilization. Despite strong winds, both the GoPro and iPhone 15 delivered stable footage. The GoPro’s wider field of view and hyperview mode captured more of the scene, making it ideal for aerial shots.
In vehicle stabilization tests, the GoPro once again benefited from its wider lens, capturing a broader view compared to the iPhone 15. The iPhone’s stabilization worked well, but in a vehicle setting, it didn’t offer significant advantages over the GoPro.
Nighttime Performance in Rainy Conditions
For nighttime testing, we took both cameras to the rainy streets of Amsterdam. Despite low-light conditions, the iPhone 15 performed impressively with Action Mode on, maintaining clear and stable footage even when sprinting after moving subjects. The GoPro Hero 12 Black, while solid, didn’t quite match the iPhone’s low-light capabilities.
Final Thoughts: iPhone 15 or GoPro Hero 12 Black?
Choosing between the iPhone 15 and GoPro Hero 12 Black ultimately depends on your needs. The iPhone 15 offers convenience as it’s likely to be with you all the time, making it perfect for spontaneous captures. Its Action Mode is a notable improvement, especially in low-light conditions.
However, the GoPro Hero 12 Black is still the go-to for dedicated action sports enthusiasts. Its wider field of view, superior stabilization, and rugged build make it ideal for high-intensity activities.
Both cameras excel in different areas, so your choice should be based on what you prioritize in a camera. If you’re interested in the GoPro Hero 12 Black, you can check it out on the GoPro official website. For more on the iPhone 15, visit Apple’s official website.
Let me know your thoughts on the footage and which camera you prefer in the comments below. If you found this comparison helpful, consider subscribing to our blog for more reviews and comparisons!
