The GoPro Hero 13 Black introduces a new family of modular lenses known as the HB Series, which includes an Ultra-Wide Lens, a Macro Lens and an Anamorphic Lens alongside a set of ND (Neutral Density) filters.
It is priced at $100, the Ultra-Wide Lens expands the field of view to 177 degrees allowing for a unique 1:1 aspect ratio capture. This feature gives users the flexibility to choose between vertical or horizontal orientations post-capture.
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The Macro Lens available for $130 enables close-up shots with a minimal focus distance of just 11cm (4.3 inches), four times closer than the standard GoPro lens.
This lens is perfect for capturing details and includes a rotating ring for adjusting focal length along with a focus peaking option available in Protune settings.
Though not yet ready for testing the $130 Anamorphic Lens promises to deliver a cinematic 21:9 aspect ratio, perfect for professional-level filmmaking. This lens de-squeezes footage in real-time, eliminating the need for post-production corrections and adding the classic anamorphic lens flare and soft corners to footage.
The four-pack of ND filters ($70) helps manage motion blur by slowing down the camera’s shutter speed. The Hero 13 Black automatically adjusts settings to suit the filter and indicates if a stronger or weaker filter is needed.
The Hero 13 Black maintains the same 8:7 aspect ratio sensor that allows for versatile shooting and cropping options. Capable of recording at up to 5.3K resolution with 120fps for stunning slow-motion footage.
10-Bit Color and HDR Support offers richer colors and greater dynamic range with the Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) HDR video option, which helps preserve detail in both highlights and shadows.
Enhanced Battery Life Features a redesigned 1,900mAh battery, a 10% increase in capacity compared to the Hero 12 Black. This allows for up to 1.5 hours of 5.3K video recording and around 2.5 hours of Full HD 1080p recording.
Like previous models the Hero 13 Black is waterproof up to 33ft (10m). Wi-Fi 6 Connectivity, this new feature enables up to 40% faster content transfer speeds.
A first for GoPro, the Hero 13 Black includes a convenient magnetic mounting system. This feature simplifies the process of attaching the camera to various mounts and accessories.
Accompanying the magnetic mounting system is the new Contacto on-the-go charging accessory, priced at $79.99. This allows for easy, cable-free charging.
Ultra Wide Lens Mod offers a 177-degree field of view. Priced at $99.99. Macro Lens Mod designed for close-up shots, this lens mod allows users to focus on subjects as close as 4.3 inches providing detailed macro photography options. Priced at $129.99.
Anamorphic Lens Mod creates an ultra-wide, letterboxed perspective with cinematic lens flares, ideal for filmmakers looking to achieve a movie-like aesthetic. Priced at $129.99 and set to release next year.
The Hero 13 Black includes advanced in-camera noise reduction. GPS has made a return with the Hero 13 Black, allowing users to tag their location and embed performance data such as speed, altitude and G-force directly into their videos via the GoPro Quik app.
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For users who are new to action cameras or those who prefer a simpler device, GoPro has introduced the Hero model. This entry-level camera is GoPro’s smallest and lightest 4K action camera with a screen.
Weighing just 86g and measuring 56.6mm x 47.7mm x 29.4mm, the Hero is about 40% smaller and lighter than the Hero 13 Black.
This makes it an excellent choice for users who prioritize portability. The Hero is waterproof up to 16ft.
While not as powerful as the Hero 13 Black the Hero still offers impressive video quality with 4K recording at 30fps and 2.7K recording at 60fps.
The Hero captures high-quality 12MP still photos, a versatile tool for both video and photography. Users can choose between three primary shooting modes, Video, Slo-Mo (2.7K at 60fps) and Photo. The camera automatically adjusts settings based on the selected mode.
The Hero offers a wider field of view compared to the Hero 13 Black (165 degrees vs. 156 degrees).
The Hero lacks GoPro’s HyperSmooth stabilization feature. This means that videos might appear shaky when viewed directly from the camera. However users can apply stabilization in post-processing using the GoPro Quik app.
The flagship model is priced at $399 / £399.99 / AU$649.95. There’s also a Creator Edition available for $599 / £599.99 / AU$979.95, which includes additional accessories tailored for content creators.
Both versions are set to hit the market on September 10, 2024. The entry-level Hero is priced at $199 / £199.99 / AU$349.95, the most affordable 4K action camera from GoPro. It will be available starting September 22, 2024.
This new accessory priced at $69.99 / £69.99 / AU$119.95 is designed to give users more control over exposure and motion blur particularly in bright conditions.
With rumors of an upcoming DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro, GoPro faces stiff competition. The Osmo Action series is known for its strong performance in low-light conditions, a feature that some users might find lacking in the Hero 13 Black.
Another competitor the Insta360 Ace Pro offers 360-degree recording capabilities and has been rumored to have an Ace Pro 2 successor in the works. GoPro’s advantage lies in its mature ecosystem and extensive accessory options.
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