Magnets. Naturally, magnets are involved. GoPro presents a fresh action cam, the Hero 13 Black, which appears strikingly similar to the previous year’s Hero 12 Black. Yet, the newly introduced magnetic mounting framework marks a pivotal modification in the equipment for some time. Moreover, the “Contacto” charging door incorporates additional magnets, enabling continuous power, even beneath water.

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The company’s comprehensive range of proprietary lenses, while not magnetic, brings forth unique camera effects that significantly broaden flexibility. Regrettably, each addon is sold separately, increasing the price of the already costly $400 action camera. The box doesn’t include any magnetic latches. Instead, every latch has a price tag of $25, with a different ball joining mount asking for $40. The Contacto kit is available separately for $80. Interested in a new lens? The cost ranges between $70 and $130 each.

GoPro Hero 13 Black Aims for Extended Shooting Durations and Enhanced Slo-Mo

Even if price isn’t an issue, the latest Hero 13 Black still offers an enhancement over its predecessor. This new GoPro boasts a 10% larger battery at 1900mAh compared to the Hero 12. The company assures over 2.5 hours of recording at 1080p or 90 minutes of 4K at 30FPS. It’s anticipated to exhibit improved performance in extreme climates, although GoPro notes the most noticeable enhancements appear during recording at the higher 10-bit mode rather than the usual 8-bit.

The fresh GoPro embraces new sensor functionalities, although not as dazzling as the additional accessories. It is capable of capturing 5.3K at 60 FPS and 4K at 120 FPS. It retains the vertical shooting option from the Hero 12 and now accommodates burst slo-mo up to 5.3K at 120 FPS and 900P at 360 FPS. The notable improvement in visual quality includes support for HLG HDR with its 10-bit recording and broader color range. For veteran GoPro aficionados lamenting the absence of GPS tracking, it has returned. Users can implement GPS details as overlays on their clips via the Quik application.

While some software modifications were introduced, this year’s flagship GoPro emerges as the most adaptable ever. The magnetic mounts can be affixed onto the folded flaps on the GoPro’s underside. Simply put, they’re incredibly useful; I’m reluctant ever to fasten another mount again. GoPro invited me for over two hours on a fast-moving jet ski. The camera remained steadfast on its chest mount. A representative informed Gizmodo that they utilized it during skydiving, and the camera stayed secure. We will personally verify its steadiness, but it leaves a positive initial impression.

The New GoPro Lenses Will Transform How, Where, and Why You Shoot

The $100 Ultra Wide Lens Mod remains the same as last year’s Max Lens Mod, although the encouraging news is the older lens remains compatible with the 13. However, it lacks the new auto-detect feature that automatically alters settings when a new lens is attached. It might not seem significant, but avoiding the need to navigate through settings is immensely practical when on the move.

I also experienced the $130 Macro Lens Mod and some of the new ND Filters, which consist of four different neutral density types between ND4 and ND32 for $70. The Macro Lens indeed makes a notable difference when capturing shots closely with its variable focus. Optimal results were seen at approximately a hand’s width from the camera, even considering the added distortion at the peripheries. The ND filters—employed for imparting a subtle perception of speed to shots—are particularly intriguing when combined with auto-detect. The camera might advise users to either increase or decrease a filter based on their lighting conditions.

The component absent from the collection is the Anamorphic lens. This substantial, convex addon supports widescreen video, essentially transforming your action camera into a cinematic device. It isn’t available at present and won’t be seen until sometime in 2025. Having viewed the lens in person, pictures fail to truly convey how massive it is. Unfortunately, I didn’t have the chance to test its filming capabilities.

The GoPro Hero is a More Compact 13 Black, Yet Still Records 4K

GoPro is seeing more rivalry presently from firms such as Insta360. The Insta360 Go 3S presents the most compact transportable camera that promotes 4K with an extractable camera module attachable via magnetically with various mounts. Consequently, GoPro came up with the fresh $200 Hero camera. Compared to the Hero 13 Black, it is reduced by about 35% and weighs 86 grams, equating to slightly less than 0.2 pounds. While it retains the typically expected GoPro mounting fingers, it lacks the new magnetic attachment features of the Hero 13.

The Hero should be regarded as a leaner counterpart of its pricier senior model. It is capable of capturing 4K and 12MP images, though its slow-motion capacity is capped at 2.7 K at 60 FPS. It boasts an advertised endurance underwater reaching up to 16 feet. The battery can last up to 100 minutes of recording at its highest video settings in ambient temperature.

I didn’t have any opportunity to record with the Hero, making me ponder if this smaller camera is merely an afterthought versus the Hero 13 Black. Both cameras are set for preorder starting Wednesday. Shipping for the Black 13 kicks off on Sept. 10, with the Hero available by Sept. 22. Except for the anamorphic, lens availability begins on Sept. 10.

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