GoPro HERO13 and HERO Pricing (w/ accessories):
- GoPro HERO13 Black (P25,990) w/ Creator Kit (P38,990)
- GoPro HERO (P13,990)
- Contacto Magnetic Door and Power Cable Kit (₱5,290)
- Magnetic Latch (₱1,590) andBall JointMounts (₱2,590)
- Ultra Wide Lens Mode (P6,590)
- Macro Lens Mod 4x with 4.3 inches focus (P8,590)
- Anamorphic Lens Mod at 21:9 aspect ratio (P8,590)
- ND 4-Filter Pack (P4,690)
It’s that time of the year again where GoPro unveils its new line of action cameras. Last year, GoPro went HARD on the HERO12 Black release because you got upgraded features for about P5,000 less than the HERO11 series which was released during the pandemic. The new HERO13 is P1,000 more expensive than the HERO12 when it launched last year.
The new flagship – is it worth a buy?
GoPro has us hyped with its new flagship, the HERO13 Black and its smaller companion, the HERO. But what I find super interesting is the introduction of new lens mods that can really add more variety to your shots. I for one have the Max Lens Mod 2.0 on my bike, and it really adds a wider angle for better cinematic shots. Here’s two sample videos comparing the regular lens with the Max Lens Mod 2.0:
But I’m getting ahead of myself! For me, the GoPro HERO13 Black isn’t a huge upgrade from the previous model. The increase of 10% Enduro battery is a welcome addition to the action camera, but the new innovations — the Contacto Magnetic Door + Power Cable Kit allows you to attach peripherals with an external power source to the door.
After clarifying some questions about the HERO13, there’s a crucial piece of information that you need to know: the current line of accessories (lenses + magnetic door) are only available for the HERO13. That would mean if you’re a previous generation owner, you’ll be fine if you aren’t interested in buying these new lenses or shooting timelapses.
A smaller HERO
The new HERO is a compelling entry level action camera. It is touted as the most affordable 4k camera with a screen. It comes with an intuitive touch screen + one button control weighing only 86 grams. It has 35% less volume and 46% less mass than the HERO13 Black.
GoPro HERO12 vs GoPro HERO13
Hands On thoughts before you buy
The four new GoPro lenses are not backwards compatible. You will need to use the GoPro HERO13 (and future models). This is because the lens attachment is different and now supports auto detect. If you own a GoPro HERO12, you will only be able to use the Max Lens Mod 2.0. Another key difference with the new HERO13 is that it uses a slight larger battery. It won’t fit in previous models. The magnetic door, sold separately, is also not backwards compatible. Essentially the HERO13 is a reset for upcoming hardware accessories.
- The Anamorphic lens will be available next year.
- The tiny GoPro Hero does not come with a removable battery pack
- The HERO13’s mount looks slightly different from the HERO12. Although it is backwards compatible, the new magnetic mount will not work on the HERO12
- In terms of redesign, the HERO13’s front has an added heat dissipation system (you can see the grills)
Stay tuned for our product review soon!
