GoPro has released two new action cameras at once: the GoPro Hero 13 and the GoPro Hero 4K Compact. Both models have improved features and several fundamental improvements. In particular, the new flagship GoPro Hero 13 supports video recording in 5.3K up to 60 fps and has a 400 fps mode (when recording in 720p resolution). You can record HDR video with 10-bit color in HLG for subsequent grading. For the first time, an action camera supports a proprietary anamorphic attachment.
GoPro Hero 13
The manufacturer has high hopes for a new generation of action cameras. However, the company is experiencing financial difficulties and is forced to reduce its staff, and the market for compact action cameras is becoming increasingly saturated with advanced devices.
Key Components
With the Go Pro Hero 13, the company is betting on a few key components. First, it’s a 27MP sensor with improved quality. This is the same 1/1.9-inch sensor with an 8:7 aspect ratio used in the GoPro Hero 12.
Secondly, the new GoPro camera received the proprietary HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, developed by GoPro, as well as support for shooting in 5.3K 60 fps mode.
Photo and Video Capabilities
The camera can also shoot photos and videos in High Dynamic Range (HDR) format. This feature is supported when recording in 5.3K resolution up to 60 fps, as well as 4K – in this case, the action camera will record video with a color depth of 10 bits.
You can also shoot 4K at up to 120 fps and 2.7k at up to 240 fps. These speeds are essential for slowing down in the post.
A dedicated slow-motion burst mode allows you to shoot 720p video at 400 frames per second.
Lenses and Accessories
Another innovation is the support for installing various additional interchangeable lenses. These include:
- Neutral Density Filters (4 options from ND4 to ND32)
- Anamorphic lens
- Ultra-wide lens (177 degrees)
- Macro optics
All additional lenses have a special intelligent interface, thanks to which the camera automatically detects what is in front and then sets the desired shooting mode.
The anamorphic lens for the GoPro Hero 13 is called the HB-Series Anamorphic Lens Mod. The manufacturer says it can be used to capture ultra-wide-angle shots with reduced distortion.
The HB series macro lens module includes a manual variable focus ring, allowing you to get up to 4x closer to your subject, with a focus range of 1cm to 75cm. The focus assist feature helps you see what’s in focus directly on the camera screen.
The HB-Series Ultra Wide Angle Lens Module enhances the GoPro Hero 13 action camera by expanding its field of view to 177°. This provides a view that’s 36% wider and 48% taller compared to the camera’s standard lens.
Stabilization and Horizon Lock
It also maximizes HyperSmooth performance for even more powerful in-camera video stabilization with a stunning 4K 60fps video resolution. Just attach a lens, and your camera will adjust its settings accordingly.
The HB series neutral density (ND) filters are automatically recognized by the next-generation action camera, which then activates Auto Cinematic video mode.
Advanced users can choose the Auto 180° shutter setting or manually adjust the shutter speed and exposure settings to fine-tune the shot to suit lighting conditions.
The filters are made of scratch-resistant glass of high optical quality and are waterproof when installed.
The camera’s software stabilization system has been significantly improved, according to the manufacturer. The GoPro Hero 13 features HyperSmooth 6.0 with an updated AutoBoost function that automatically enhances video stabilization when needed, minimizing crop size. HyperSmooth 6.0 also maintains a level horizon during full 360° camera rotation with the Linear + Horizon Lock digital lens, or with any lens settings when using the Max Lens Mod 2.0 accessory.
According to GoPro, HyperSmooth 6.0 can analyze footage 4x faster than HyperSmooth 5.0.
The Horizon Lock feature is impressive because, once activated, it keeps the horizon level even if the camera is upside down or rotated 360 degrees.
Recording and Connectivity
Additionally, there is a LOG recording mode with downloadable LUTs. Currently, only one LUT is available: GPLOG_Auto_WB.cube.
The next-generation GoPro Hero 13 action camera also supports Bluetooth wireless audio for Apple AirPods and other Bluetooth audio devices such as earbuds, over-ear headphones, and microphones. It is convenient for vlogging, voice-overing scenes, and giving voice commands to control the camera from a distance.
Battery and Power
The new large Enduro battery with a capacity of 1900 mAh has a redesigned connector specifically designed for the GoPro Hero 13. The Enduro battery offers improved efficiency and extended runtime, providing up to 2.5 hours of continuous recording. However, it is not compatible with older GoPro models, according to the manufacturer.
The GoPro Hero 13 offers several features to enhance your shooting experience:
- Power Tools: Extend battery life with built-in tools.
- HindSight: Records up to 30 seconds of video before you start recording.
- Scheduled Capture: Set your GoPro to take a photo automatically up to 24 hours in advance.
- Duration Capture: Shoot video clips ranging from 15 seconds to 2 hours.
- Interval Photo: Capture photos at regular intervals.
Additionally, you can use the GoPro Hero 13 as a webcam or for live broadcasting with advanced features. Connect it to your home Wi-Fi to automatically upload footage to the cloud.
User Interface and Controls
The new action camera’s user interface is the same as the GoPro Hero 12 Black, with simplified controls and a vertical shooting mode that shoots vertical video with a 9:16 aspect ratio when the camera is mounted horizontally.
For users seeking convenience, the updated “Easy Controls” offer simplicity. Advanced users who want greater control and efficiency can utilize the optimized “Pro Controls” settings.
Quik App Integration
GoPro users can also use the dedicated Quik app for desktops. The Quik desktop and Quik mobile apps sync with each other, allowing you to start an editing project in one app and seamlessly switch to the other, providing maximum convenience and flexibility, the company says in the release.
Wireless Timecode Synchronization
The new GoPro action camera offers wireless timecode synchronization. This feature lets you sync unlimited cameras, both current and previous models, for seamless multi-camera editing in Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere, and other software.
Mounting and Accessories
The GoPro Hero 13’s mounting pins have 1/4-20 threads, making it compatible with standard camera mounts and accessories.
GoPro subscribers have access to Auto Upload to Cloud, Auto Edit, and Unlimited Backup features. While the camera charges, it automatically uploads footage to your GoPro cloud account. After the upload, you’ll receive a highlight video. You can upload as much footage as you want, and all content is stored in its original quality.
The GoPro Hero 13 is waterproof up to 10 meters without requiring extra housing.
GoPro also makes a special 120cm extension pole that folds down to just 25cm and is designed to work with the GoPro Hero 12 and Hero 13’s 1/4-20 mounting thread.
The extension pole includes a detachable, waterproof Bluetooth shutter remote. This remote allows you to easily control the shutter of your GoPro Hero 13 and Hero 12, even when the pole is fully extended.
A dedicated magnetic cable forms a waterproof seal with the door and connects to any USB-C power source to continuously power the camera.
The new GoPro Hero 13 Black is now available for pre-order on B&H Photo and Adorama for $399.99, which is similar to the launch price of the GoPro Hero 12 Black.
The wide-angle macro lens, featuring variable focal length and focusing capabilities, is priced at $129.99. The ultra-wide-angle lens, with a viewing angle of up to 177°, costs $99.99. The ND filter series, including ND4, ND8, ND16, and ND32, is available for $69.99. The price for the anamorphic attachment is $129.
GoPro Hero 4K
The second action camera presented by the company turned out to be even more compact and light. The GoPro Hero 4K model does not have a front display, weighs 86 grams, and supports UHD 4K 30 fps video recording.
This action camera can shoot photos and videos in high dynamic range (HDR), the manufacturer reports in the press release. Video can be shot in 4K up to 30p and 4K with 10-bit color. You can shoot 2.7K up to 60 fps.
You can capture both photos and videos at 12 megapixels.
The proprietary HyperSmooth stabilization algorithm automatically smooths out minor shakes in your footage, whether you’re mountain biking, skiing, or chasing your dog at the dog park.
The camera offers a 16:9 aspect ratio for YouTube-optimized landscape video. According to the company, the GoPro Hero 4K can continuously record up to 100 minutes at maximum video settings on a single battery charge (runtime measured at 25°C).
The GoPro Hero 4K costs $199.99. It is available for pre-order on B&H Photo and Adorama‘s websites.
