Having tested the GoPro Hero 13 for a few weeks now, I can confidently say it’s a solid upgrade with a few exciting improvements. However, there are some areas where GoPro could have done more, which I’ll dive into later in this article.
For some context, I’ve been using GoPros since 2007, and this latest model continues to prove why they are essential tools for solo shooters like me, as well as content creators and folks who want to document their adventures.
The question is this: Is the GoPro Hero 13 a significant enough upgrade over the Hero 12 to warrant an upgrade? Well, let’s find out!
Table of Contents
- Key Improvements in the GoPro Hero 13
- Comparing Video Quality and Stabilization with the Hero 12
- Audio and Microphone Support: Still Room for Improvement in the GoPro Hero 13
- New Accessories and Lens Mods: A Definite Win
- Battery Life: A Welcome Boost in the GoPro Hero 13 (But With Trade-Offs)
- Should You Upgrade from the Hero 12?
- Final Impressions of the GoPro Hero 13
Key Improvements in the GoPro Hero 13
The GoPro Hero 13 offers several major upgrades over its predecessor, the Hero 12, particularly in terms of functionality and ease of use.
One of the most impressive changes is the introduction of electronic communication between the camera and the lens mods. This feature eliminates the need to manually adjust the camera settings when switching lenses, which was a bit of a hassle in the past. So, if you often change your shooting style—say, from wide-angle action shots to close-up macro work—this is a big leap forward on a camera like this.
The Hero 13 also adds an improved magnetic quick-release plate, which allows you to swap between mounts in seconds. This is especially handy for fast-paced activities like mountain biking or off-roading. In my testing, this magnetic quick release feels much more secure than others I have tested in the past, so kudos to GoPro for that.
Another notable improvement is the thermal performance. The GoPro Hero 13 comes with a new heatsink and a 1900mAh Enduro battery, which increases the runtime by about 13.5% compared to the Hero 12. A longer time between charges? Beam me up, Scotty!
If you typically shoot in extreme conditions—whether that’s hot desert days or cold winter nights—the enhanced heat dissipation helps prevent overheating, while the battery is more resilient to both hot and cold environments. However, the downside is that this new battery is not backward-compatible with earlier models, which can be frustrating if you’ve already invested in multiple GoPro batteries. The last time GoPro changed batteries was when the Hero 9 came out, so I have a lot of batteries that will not work with the Hero 13.
Comparing Video Quality and Stabilization with the Hero 12
When it comes to video quality, the GoPro Hero 13 sticks with the same sensor as the Hero 12, which is perhaps one of the most significant drawbacks. While the 8:7 aspect ratio is still unique and useful for capturing immersive footage, the sensor is beginning to show its age, particularly in low-light situations.
In well-lit environments, the Hero 13 crushes it and produces exceptional results, with clear, sharp footage that rivals some of the best action cameras on the market. However, once lighting conditions worsen, the limitations of this aging sensor become more apparent. Footage starts to appear grainy, and the colors lose their richness.
In terms of stabilization, HyperSmooth 6.0 in the GoPro Hero 13 remains one of the best stabilization technologies available on any action camera. It’s an incremental improvement over the already excellent HyperSmooth 5.0 in the Hero 12, offering smoother footage even when shooting in rough conditions.
A lot of the footage I capture is with the camera mounted on the hood or front bumper of my Jeep Gladiator ripping down some off-road trails, and one thing I’ll give to GoPro is that their image stabilization is the real deal! However, as with the camera’s low-light performance, the stabilization feels somewhat dependent on lighting conditions, and in lower light, it doesn’t feel as effective. In this area, GoPro’s competitors, like the DJI Osmo Action, are starting to catch up.
Audio and Microphone Support: Still Room for Improvement in the GoPro Hero 13
Now, for me, one of the biggest missed opportunities in the Hero 13 is the lack of wireless microphone support. While the built-in audio quality is decent, it still doesn’t hold up to using external gear to capture professional-grade sound.
Now, GoPro has made some strides by adding a Voice Audio mode that prioritizes voice over ambient sound, but it’s not quite enough. Many creators, myself included, would love to see Bluetooth support for popular wireless mics like the Rode Wireless Pro. For solo shooters and vloggers, this would have been a killer feature.
Full disclosure–you can still use an external mic like the Rode Wireless Pro with the GoPro Hero 13. However, you need to use something like their Media Mod Kit and plug the Rode Wireless Pro into the 3.5mm port. Does this work? Yes. Is it convenient? No.
Unfortunately, adding Bluetooth support for wireless mics would require hardware changes, not just a software update, so it’s unlikely to be something GoPro can fix with a firmware update. Instead, I hope GoPro either develops its own wireless microphone system or includes this feature in future models.
Keep Reading: The Sony ZV-E1 Might Be the Vlogging Camera for You
New Accessories and Lens Mods: A Definite Win
One area where GoPro has knocked it out of the park is with the new lens mods. Previously, interchangeable lenses could not communicate with the camera, but the GoPro Hero 13 changes that. The camera can now automatically adjust settings for specific lens mods like ultra-wide, macro, and ND filters, adding versatility that older models just didn’t have.
The ultra-wide mod, for instance, is fantastic for capturing expansive landscapes or POV action shots. Its 177-degree field of view captures just about everything in front of the camera, making it ideal for activities like hiking, cycling, or even snorkeling. The Hero 13’s horizon leveling, a feature that keeps the horizon straight even if the camera rotates, is particularly impressive with the ultra-wide mod.
The macro lens mod is another exciting addition to the GoPro Hero 13. These cameras have traditionally been wide-angle, with a fixed focus that made close-up shots difficult. The macro mod allows for focusing as close as 4.33 inches, which opens up a whole new range of creative possibilities.
For nature photographers or anyone looking to film small objects in detail, this is a huge plus. The camera also includes a new ND filter set, which automatically adjusts settings to achieve that desirable motion blur effect, making it easier to capture cinematic footage.
Battery Life: A Welcome Boost in the GoPro Hero 13 (But With Trade-Offs)
The new 1900mAh Enduro battery offers a noticeable boost in performance over the Hero 12’s battery performance. I found that I could shoot continuously for longer without worrying about the camera overheating or the battery dying prematurely. This is a significant upgrade for anyone who uses the GoPro for extended periods, whether you’re on an all-day shoot or a multi-day adventure. The battery is also supposed to perform better in cold temperatures, which, as winter approaches, I will confirm. This was a weak spot in earlier GoPros, so I’m interested to see just how well the GoPro Hero 13 battery does when the temperature dips.
However, as I mentioned earlier, the Enduro battery is not compatible with previous GoPro models, meaning if you’re upgrading from an older camera like the Hero 10 or Hero 12, you’ll need to buy all-new batteries. This adds to the cost, which may be a sticking point for some users.
Should You Upgrade from the Hero 12?
The GoPro Hero 13 is an incremental improvement over the Hero 12 (shown above).
The question everyone is asking is if the GoPro Hero 13 is a meaningful upgrade over the Hero 12…
If you’re coming from the Hero 12, the answer is a bit nuanced. The GoPro Hero 13 does bring some exciting new features, particularly with the lens mods, improved thermal performance, and slightly better stabilization. For me, these are video creator gems. However, the lack of a new sensor means that if you’re primarily concerned with image quality—especially in low light—you might not notice a huge difference.
That said, if you’re upgrading from an older model, like the Hero 10 or earlier, the improvements in design, stabilization, and battery life make the Hero 13 a more compelling option. The addition of features like 5.3K video at 120fps, better slow-motion capabilities, and the return of GPS functionality (with faster file transfers via Wi-Fi 6) all make this a versatile tool for any content creator.
Reduce the Cost of a Hero 13
To offset the cost of a new GoPro Hero 13, you might consider selling your current GoPro and accessories to an online platform like MPB. I’ve used MPB many times over the years to buy, sell, and trade gear, and my experience has always been top-notch.
The process of selling your gear couldn’t be easier. Just tell MPB about your GoPro, and they’ll give you an instant quote. If you accept MPB’s offer, they’ll handle the shipping for you through FedEx. You don’t even have to print a shipping label! Once MPB receives your old GoPro stuff, they’ll inspect it to verify that it meets the condition you described. Then they’ll pay you, and you’ll have your money in a few days.
Selling your old GoPro is a great idea for a variety of reasons. First, it puts some cash in your hands to offset the cost of a GoPro Hero 13. Second, it helps you cull your collection of gear. And third, it gives someone else the opportunity to upgrade their gear for a good price through MPB. It’s a win all the way around!
Final Impressions of the GoPro Hero 13
Overall, the GoPro Hero 13 is a solid upgrade with some fantastic new features, but it’s not without its flaws. If you’re new to GoPro or upgrading from an older model, you’ll appreciate the added versatility of the lens mods, the improved stabilization, and the longer battery life is evidence GoPro continues to set the pace. However, if you already own the Hero 12 and primarily use it for video, you may want to hold off unless these new features are must-haves for your specific shooting style.
Despite a few drawbacks, I think it’s safe to say that the GoPro Hero 13 is one of the best action cameras on the market. That said, my hope is that GoPro will offer a major sensor overhaul in the Hero 14. If they do, the Hero 14 might just be the camera that delivers on everything I’ve been waiting for.
Until then, the GoPro Hero 13 remains a powerhouse that is a capable and reliable tool for capturing all the action. It might not be perfect, but it will get tons of use in the coming year for my photo and video projects!
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