RateLab Electronics & Tech Action Cameras GoPro HERO11 Black
Discounted Pick Consider

GoPro HERO11 Black Waterproof Action Camera

The previous-generation GoPro, still excellent. Consider it when the price gap versus the Hero12 is significant.

TL;DR
  • Consider when the Hero11 is priced significantly below the Hero12
  • 5.3K60 and HyperSmooth 5.0 are nearly as capable as the Hero12's specs
  • Full GoPro mount ecosystem compatibility at a lower price
Check current price on Amazon

Best For / Not For

Best for

  • GoPro ecosystem buyers who want to save money versus the Hero12
  • Buyers who find the Hero12 overpriced for their use case
  • Anyone who wants full GoPro ecosystem access at a lower entry price

Not for

  • Buyers who want the absolute latest GoPro generation
  • Anyone who should check the current price gap before deciding (sometimes Hero12 goes on sale)
  • Low-light focused buyers who should look at DJI or Insta360 instead

Key Details

Video5.3K60, 4K120, 2.7K240
Photo27MP
StabilizationHyperSmooth 5.0
Waterproof10m without housing
Best useAction sports at a lower price than Hero12

What Makes It Stand Out

The HERO11 earns consideration on price. The specs are nearly identical to the Hero12 -- same resolution ceiling, similar stabilization, same accessory ecosystem. The meaningful upgrade in the Hero12 is HyperSmooth 6.0 and minor refinements that most casual shooters will not notice.

Check the current prices before deciding. When the HERO11 is significantly cheaper, the value case is strong. When prices are close, buy the Hero12 for the incremental improvements.

Value

The HERO11's value depends entirely on the current price gap versus the Hero12. Shop both at the time of purchase and make the call based on what the discount is worth to you.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • 5.3K60 video -- same resolution ceiling as the Hero12
  • HyperSmooth 5.0 delivers excellent stabilization
  • Full GoPro accessory and mount ecosystem
  • Lower price than the Hero12 when on sale

Cons

  • HyperSmooth 5.0 slightly behind the Hero12's 6.0
  • Same smaller 1/1.9-inch sensor as the Hero12
  • The price gap versus Hero12 narrows when Hero12 is on sale

Bottom Line

Consider the GoPro HERO11 Black when it is priced significantly below the Hero12. The specs are close enough that the discount can make it the smarter buy. Check current prices on both before deciding.

Check current price on Amazon