GoPro launched two new cameras for 2024: the GoPro Hero 13 Black and a more affordable, entry-level version, the GoPro Hero (2024).
Price of GoPro Hero 13 Black and GoPro Hero (2024) in the US
In the U.S., the GoPro Hero 13 Black is priced at USD399.99 (~RM1,741) for the standard package while the Hero 13 Black Creator Edition, which includes accessories like the Volta Power Grip, Media Mod, and Light Mod, is priced at USD599.99 (~RM2,611). It’s currently up for pre-order and will start shipping on the 10th of September 2024.
As for the entry-level GoPro Hero (2024), that is priced at USD199.99 (~RM871) and will go on sale on the 22nd of September 2024.
The prices of HB-Series lenses and other accessories are as follows:
- Ultra-Wide Lens Mode – USD99.99 (~RM435)
- Macro Lens Mod – USD129.99 (~RM566)
- Anamorphic Lens Mod – USD129.99 (~RM566)
- ND Filter 4-Pack – USD69.99 (~RM305)
- Contacto Magnetic Door and Power Cable Kit – USD79.99 (~RM348)
- Magnetic Latch – USD24.99 (~RM109)
GoPro Hero 13 Black features carryover specs from the Hero 12 Black
The imaging capabilities of the GoPro Hero 13 Black remain similar to the Hero 12 Black, featuring a 1/1.9” CMOS 8:7 sensor and the GP2 processor. The camera maintains the same video and photo resolution, with support for 5.3K video recording at an 8:7 aspect ratio. It also continues to offer HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization technology.
So what exactly is new here?
The GoPro Hero 13 Black introduces 400fps slow-motion video recording at 720p, a feature not found in previous models. It also has a new 1,900mAh Enduro battery, larger than the Hero 12 Black’s 1,720mAh.
GoPro now offers an accessory called Contacto Magnetic Door and Power Cable Kit that adds metal contact points on the battery cover which can be connected to a magnetic charger. This allows you to recharge the battery without having to remove it from the device. Alternatively, you can power the device directly without the need for a battery to be installed.
Additionally, the Hero 13 Black introduces the “Snap & Mount” system, inspired by DJI Osmo Action, offering a convenient attachment method alongside the finger mounting with screw holes first seen on the Hero 12 Black.
New lens attachments that were already offered by 3rd party brands
For this generation, GoPro has introduced several versatile Lens Mods for the Hero Black (HB)-Series. These types of lenses should have been released by GoPro earlier, considering that third-party options have been available for a long time.
Ultra-Wide Lens Mod
The Ultra-Wide Lens Mod was one of the first lens accessories introduced with the Hero 9. This mod expands the GoPro’s field of view to 177°. For the Hero 13 Black, it also supports a 1:1 video ratio, which can be adjusted to 16:9 or 19:6 during editing.
Macro Lens Mod
The Macro Lens Mod reduces the GoPro Hero 13 Black’s focusing distance to around 11cm, thanks to an adjustable ring. GoPro demonstrated this lens by showing artists creating and displaying miniature paintings in front of the camera.
Anamorphic Lens Mod
For a more cinematic look, the anamorphic lens provides a 21:9 wide-angle perspective. Fans of this effect will appreciate the lens flare that anamorphic lenses produce. A notable feature of the Hero 13 Black’s anamorphic video is that the camera handles the “de-squeezing” process internally, which simplifies editing.
ND Filter 4-Pack
ND Filters are essential for content creators, and it took GoPro a while to release an official version. The set includes ND4, ND8, ND16, and ND32 filters, allowing users to manage different levels of light entering the camera.
The more affordable, entry-level GoPro Hero (2024)
The GoPro Hero (2024) is a more budget-friendly option, but it isn’t simply a scaled-down version of the Hero 13 Black, as many specs differ. This is unlike the situation with the GoPro Hero 11 Black and Hero 11 Black Mini, where the differences were more aligned.
For example, it doesn’t feature the GP2 flagship processor but instead uses the S75N processor and its recording resolution is also lower, offering up to 4K at 30fps without any slow-motion options above 60fps.
In contrast to the Hero 11 Black Mini, the Hero (2024) includes a rear screen for adjusting settings.
You can visit the GoPro Hero official site for more information.