GoPro announced the new Hero13 and Hero13 Black action cameras, with the former slimming down to the smallest-ever GoPro with a screen. At the same time, the latter brings many upgrades for a more professional user including a new magnetic mount, GPS, better batteries, new swappable lenses and ND filters with auto-detection, and more.
The GoPro Hero13 Black
Last year’s GoPro didn’t do much to impress as some quality of life issues went unaddressed but that changes this year with the Hero13 Black which appears laser-focused on providing better usability and higher quality footage across the board. Instead of relying on boosts to resolution, GoPro upgraded the systems around the sensor.
Firstly, and gratefully, GoPro has improved the battery on the flagship action camera promising not only a 10% larger overall capacity but better power efficiency to extend its runtime in “all weather conditions.” The result is double-digit percentage improvements to runtime in many cases, the largest jumps in the high frame rate settings, with 2.7K 120 frames per second (fps) seeing the biggest jump of 58% longer record times while 5.4K at 60 fps capture lasts 38% longer, 4K at 60 fps lasts 28% longer, and 1080p at 240 fps lasts 39% longer (all record times were measured at 77 degrees Fahrenheit with no airflow).
“A 10% larger capacity 1900mAh Enduro battery combines with improved power efficiency and a redesigned battery enclosure to deliver longer runtimes in all conditions. Hero13 Black provides 1.5 hours of continuous recording in the highest resolution 4K30 and 5.3K30 settings, plus over 2.5 hours of continuous recording at HD-quality 1080p30,” the company says.
The Hero13 Black can also shoot in Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) HDR. HDR has been an option since last year’s model, but this year GoPro added HLG which records in a wider color gamut at 10-bit and Rec. 2100 color space.
The Hero13 Black can also capture up to 400 frames per second at 720p as well as 5.3K at 120 frames per second and 900p at 360 frames per second in what GoPro calls Burst Slo-Mo.
GoPro also updated the mounting system with what it calls a “snap and go” magnetic latch mount, which joins the classic built-in mounting fingers and 1/4-20 mounting threads for a third way to mount the GoPro Hero13. The company says it is now the quickest way to secure the camera, although GoPro didn’t remove the other methods as they are more secure. Basically, there are now three different mounting methods for different use cases.
The Hero13 Black also uses WiFi 6 for up to 40% faster wireless transfers, more customizable audio tuning, integrated GPS, and several changes to the user interface to make it easier and more intuitive to operate.
Finally, GoPro has updated the lens mod system for the Hero13 Black. While the company has offered optional lenses before, this year there are three options as well as a new set of ND filters: the Ultra Wide, macro lens, and anamorphic lens. All are HyperSmooth stabilization compatible, retain the GoPro’s waterproofing when attached (although it varies depending on the mod), are treated with hydrophobic coatings, and are promised to be scratch-resistant.
When attached, the GoPro recognizes them and adjusts its UI to compensate. Additionally, the macro lens is the first to feature a manual focus ring that the GoPro sees and offers focus peaking to assist with focus. The anamorphic supports 21:9 and 16:9 aspect ratios and internal de-squeeze to offer classic anamorphic lens flare and soft corners.
The ND filters also communicate with the GoPro Hero13 Black and automatically adjust metering. Beyond that, the GoPro can meter a scene and then suggest an ND filter to allow for the best look for given lighting. The ND filters also allow users to adjust the shutter speed down to allow for motion blur, which looks more cinematic. This can be done automatically or shutter speed can be manually set.
The GoPro Hero13
GoPro describes the Hero13 as the smallest, lightest, and simplest-to-use 4K camera with a screen (a rear screen; there is no front-facing screen). It weighs a scant 86 grams, is waterproof down to 15 feet, and features HyperSmooth stabilization, 2x slow motion at 2.7K, 16:9 aspect ratio, and a battery that lasts for up to 100 minutes on a single charge.
“With built-in mounting fingers included, Hero has 35% less volume and 46% less mass than Hero13 Black,” GoPro says. “Use Hero’s LCD screen to frame your shots perfectly and simply swipe or press the mode button to swap modes. When you’re ready, hit the shutter button to start capturing. Completely waterproof and built with legendary GoPro durability, Hero is ready to capture the fun whether you’re ripping through mud, snow, water or just exploring a new city.”
Pricing and Availability
The GoPro Hero13 is available for pre-order for $100 starting today and is expected to ship on September 22. Hero13 Black will be available on September 10 and pre-orders start at $399.99 for the standalone camera or the $599.99 option includes the Volta Power Grip, Media Mod and Light Mod, or activity-optimized Hero13 Black Accessory Bundles.
The Ultra Wide lens mod costs $99, the macro lens and the Anamorphic (which won’t be available until 2025) retail for $129.99, and the ND filter four-pack costs $69.99. All except the anamorphic lens will also ship on September 10.
Image credits: GoPro