GoPro has launched the Hero13 Black – the latest update to its long-standing best MTB action camera range and although the updates aren't exactly groundbreaking there are a few eye-catching load features to get mountain biking creators and budding adventure film-makers excited.
From the outside not much has changed, the Hero13 is identical in size to previous models with external dimensions of 71.8 x 50.8 x 33.6mm, and even with a larger capacity battery squeezed in the weight gain is negligible at 159g compared to 154g on the Hero12.
Inside the performance is pretty much identical too, there’s no 8K video or larger sensor. So Hero13 has the same excellent-quality 5.3K video and for stills they remain the same with 27MP photos delivering crisp detail and cinematic image quality with High Dynamic Range (HDR).
The Hero13 has the award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization. HyperSmooth already set the bar for steady footage and the Hero13 continues to maximize HyperSmooth with AutoBoost, so even the shakiest footage comes out silky smooth.
So with all that being the same as Hero12 what's new? I had a look over the finer details to find out...
Improved battery life
One of my main gripes with previous GoPro models has always been the battery performance. GoPro with recent models has improved this with the Enduro battery and the step forward continues with the new Enduro Battery with a higher-capacity – 1900mAh battery (compared to the previous 1720mAh) which is claimed to give longer runtimes in all conditions, from hot to cold.
So that equates to more than 2.5 hours of continuous recording at 1080p or over 1.5 hours at 4K and 5.3K. One slight annoyance is that the new Enduro battery is not backwards-compatible and older versions are not forward-compatible – so there is more outlay if you like to have extra batteries.
There is also a new magnetic attachment for the charging cable on the outside of the camera which now makes charging a breeze. It removes another moan of mine from previous models – the need to open the vulnerable door that would always pop off when opening for charging or changing batteries (you do still have to open it to change the battery.)
Magnetic mounting
The Hero13 now has super useful magnetic mounting and this has to be one of the key improvements for mountain bikers. GoPro has finally added this feature which has been around for a while on some of the best action cameras like the Insta360 X4.
The Hero13 magnetic mount allows for swift attachment and detachment of your GoPro without the need for thumbscrews and buckles. You can easily snap it in and out of place, so checking footage before your next run on the uplift has never been easier. It also offers the option to use the traditional interlocking ‘clevis’ mount and a standard tripod thread for versatility.
HB-Series Lenses
GoPro introduced its Max Mod lens attachments on the Hero12 and for Hero13 it has added new lens accessories.
For mountain bikers, the ND Filters are very appealing. GoPro says that by attaching one of these neutral density (ND) filters the Hero13 will auto-detect and shift into Auto Cinematic video mode – which enables users to create footage with motion blur making you look even faster than ever. In more practical terms the ND filters also reduce light hitting the sensor. So for those bright days and for shooting helmet or chest-mounted POV footage the shutter speed and exposure settings can be fine-tuned to suit any lighting for quality footage no matter the conditions.
The Macro Lens is also another interesting option and allows for close-up detailed focusing. This lens means you can focus on objects 4x closer than the standard lens, and for mountain bikers who like to see components in action while riding – like suspension travel, it'll be a really useful addition. Equally handy for doing detailed bike checks too.
The Ultra Wide Lens Mod expands carries over from Hero12 and expands the Hero13's field of view (FOV) to 177° which is 36% wider and 48% taller than shots captured with its standard lens, so for mountain bikers it's perfect for capturing more of the action. It also maximizes HyperSmooth performance for superb video stabilization.
Finally, the new anamorphic lens will give those MTB influencers and vloggers even more creative power and GoPro claims it's the easiest way to capture cinematic, ultra wide-angle footage without distortion. It also delivers the 21:9 aspect ratio used in feature films, and cinematic lens flares to add a pro-quality result to your footage – so recording your epic fails will now have Oscar-winning quality.
The HB-Series lenses range all come at an additional cost with various bundles and options available to choose from. GoPro adds that all the lenses are durable, scratch-resistant, and waterproof when installed.
GPS data
GPS was missing from the Hero12 Black, but it's back for the Hero13 and gives an extra creative addition to the footage. Using the GoPro Quik app it's possible to overlay telemetry data as real-time animated graphics to edits and display location, speed, altitude, maps, and more.
This looks like a very cool addition but using GPS will put an extra drain on the battery.
GoPro Hero13 Black camera pricing
The GoPro Hero 13 Black is available to order directly at GoPro priced at $399 / £399.
The lens kits are available to buy priced as follows: Ultra Wide Lens Mod is $99.99 /£99.99. The ND-Filter 4-pack is $69.99 / £69.99, the Macro Lens Mod is $129.99 / £129.99 and the Anamorphic Lens Mod is $129.99 / £129.99.
GoPro has numerous bundles available at various price points with more information found at GoPro.com.
GoPro Hero13 Black spec
- Dimensions: 71.8 x 50.8 x 33.6 mm
- Weight: 159g
- Rear Display Size: 2.27” Color LCD
- Front Display Size: 1.4” Color LCD
- Max video resolution: 5.3K@60 / 4K@120, 5.3K@30 8:7 / 4K@60 8:7
- Image stabilization: HyperSmooth 6.0
- Max photo resolution: 27MP
- Maximum video bit rate: up to 120Mbps (5.3K / 4K)
- Built-in GPS: Yes
- Battery: Removable 1900mAh
- Battery life: Up to 2.5 hours
- Connectivity: WiFi, Bluetooth, USB-C
- Price: $399 / £399
