With the release of the GoPro Hero 13, the landscape of action cameras appears to have evolved, but has it truly? When comparing the GoPro Hero 13 vs 12 vs 11 vs 10, several questions arise: Is it worth upgrading? Which model is the perfect choice for beginners?
Having all three models in my hands, I’m happy to share with you my personal insights on these pressing questions.
In this article, you’ll learn the similarities and distinctions between the GoPro Hero 13, 12, 11, and 10 to understand which camera you should get and why.
QUICK TAKE
- GoPro Hero 13, 12 and Hero 11 offer 27-megapixel capability, while Hero 10 provides 23 megapixels
- All models excel in video, capturing up to 5.3K at 60fps or 4K at 120fps
- The Hero 13 has improved battery life and new epic accessories
GoPro Hero 13 vs 12 vs 11 vs 10: Quick Specs Comparison
Have a look at the following table for a quick specs comparison of GoPro Hero 13 vs 12 vs 11 vs 10:
| Feature | GoPro Hero 13 | GoPro Hero 12 | GoPro Hero 11 | GoPro Hero 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processor | GP2 | GP2 | GP2 | GP2 |
| Still images | 27MP | 27MP | 27 MP | 23MP |
| Max video resolution | 5.3K/60fps or 4K/120fps, 5.3K (16:9) 60/50/30/25/24 fps | 5.3K/60fps or 4K/120fps | 5.3K/60fps or 4K/120fps | 5.3K/60fps or 4K/120fps |
| Stabilization | HyperSmooth 6.0 | HyperSmooth 6.0 | HyperSmooth 5.0 | HyperSmooth 4.0 |
| HDR Video | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Bluetooth audio support | Yes (for AirPods and other devices) | Yes (for AirPods and other devices) | No | No |
| Water resistance | Up to 33ft (10m) without housing | Up to 33ft (10m) without housing | Up to 33ft (10m) without housing | Up to 33ft (10m) without housing |
| Battery life | boasts a 10% larger battery, 90 minutes of 4K video at 30fps or or 3 hours at 1080p/30p | Up to 1.5 hours at 5.3K/30p or over 2.5 hours at 1080p/30p | Up to 1 hour at 5.3K/30p or over 2 hours at 1080p/30p | Up to 1 hour at 5.3K/30p or over 2 hours at 1080p/30p |
| Compatibility with Ultra Wide, Macro Anamorphic Lens and ND Filters | Yes | No | No | No |
| GPS | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
GoPro Hero 13 Review
The GoPro Hero 13 Black, launched on September 10th, brings a mix of familiar features and exciting new upgrades.
- Best-in-class 5.3K60 video and legendary durability combine with new HB-Series...
While it retains the 27MP sensor and 5.3K video resolution of its predecessor, it introduces a magnetic mounting system for faster setup and enhanced versatility.
New accessories, such as interchangeable lenses like the Macro, Ultra Wide, and the upcoming Anamorphic Lens Mods, expand the camera’s creative potential.
The new 1900mAh battery offers improved performance, potentially solving the overheating issues of previous models, while WiFi 6 speeds up content transfer by up to 40%.
On the audio side, the Hero 13 Black features a new “Voice” mode that enhances vocal clarity and minimizes background noise, making it ideal for content creators.
The popular HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization remains, now with AutoBoost and Horizon Lock for ultra-smooth footage, even during high-action shots.
Find a quick comparison between the GoPro Hero 13 and its predecessors:
GoPro Hero 13 vs GoPro Hero 12
GoPro Hero 13 vs GoPro Hero 11
GoPro Hero 12 Review
Discover how to unlock the full capabilities of the GoPro Hero 12 by watching my tutorial:
![How to Use GoPro HERO 12 [Beginner’s Guide 2024]](https://projectgo.pro/wp-content/cache/flying-press/-Q52RuQMDMU-hqdefault.jpg)
The GoPro HERO 12 Black takes action camera image quality to a whole new level by introducing High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology. This innovation applies to both videos, offering impressive 5.3K and 4K resolution, as well as photos.
In challenging lighting situations where details might get lost in shadows or overexposed in bright areas, HDR steps in to ensure your visuals remain vivid and true-to-life.
- High Dynamic Range Video plus Photo: HERO12 Black takes its best-in-class image...
- Unbelieveable Image Quality: With 5.3K video that gives you 91% more resolution than...
- Emmy Award- Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization: HyperSmooth continues to set the...
The HERO 12 Black boasts a 5.3K video resolution, providing a remarkable 91% more detail than 4K and a staggering 665% increase over standard 1080p.Paired with HDR, this combination results in cinematic image quality.
This powerhouse can capture 27MP photos and even allows you to extract stunning 24.7MP photos from your favorite video moments using the GoPro Quik app.
But that’s not all; the HERO 12 Black takes stabilization to the next level with its HyperSmooth 6.0 technology, which combines both hardware and software to deliver incredibly smooth footage, even in turbulent scenarios.
GoPro Hero 11 Review
The GoPro Hero 11 Black stands as a pinnacle within GoPro’s impressive lineup of action cameras, catering to those who seek top-tier video and photography performance.
At its core, this camera boasts a robust 27-megapixel sensor, enabling it to capture breathtaking 5.3K video at a silky-smooth 60 frames per second while effortlessly taking 27-megapixel still photos.
- Revolutionary New Image Sensor: expansive field of view ever on a HERO camera out of...
- Unbelievable Image Quality: With 5.3K video that gives you 91% more resolution than...
- High-Res Photos + Videos, High Frame Rate: HERO11 Black’s new image sensor boosts...
One of the Hero 11’s standout features is its enhanced HyperSmooth 5.0 video stabilization technology, setting a new standard for remarkably steady footage. Additionally, it offers features like an improved TimeWarp for smooth time-lapse videos and LiveBurst, which captures 1.5 seconds of video both before and after taking a photo, giving you the flexibility to select the perfect still image.
The Hero 11 also boasts a more expansive front-facing display for easy framing and a larger rear touch screen for reviewing footage and adjusting settings.
Its water-resistant design allows for submersion up to 33 feet (10 meters) without external housing. Voice control adds convenience, and compatibility with GoPro’s Max Lens Mod opens up possibilities for wider and more immersive shots.
GoPro Hero 10 Review
Check out my GoPro Hero 10 review:
The GoPro Hero 10 stands as a testament to GoPro’s commitment to delivering high-quality action cameras that excel in capturing life’s adventures. This camera shines with its ability to record in impressive 5.3K at 60 fps or smooth 4K at 120 fps, providing a level of video quality that will leave you in awe.
Moreover, the Hero 10 doesn’t just stop at video; it’s also a capable still camera. With a robust 23-megapixel sensor, you can capture high-resolution photos that are sure to impress.
- Revolutionary Processor: Faster. Smoother. Better. The powerful new GP2 engine...
- High-Res Photos plus Videos, High Frame Rate: Step up to the sharpest-shooting GoPro...
- Unbelievable Image Quality: Shoot with fine detail, realistic textures and stunning...
Staying true to the GoPro tradition, the Hero 10 is designed to withstand the elements. Its water-resistant design allows it to brave depths of up to 33 feet (10 meters) without the need for external housing, making it an ideal companion for underwater adventures.
When it comes to stabilization, the Hero 10 features GoPro’s renowned HyperSmooth 4.0 technology. This ensures that your videos are impressively steady, even when capturing fast-paced action or navigating rough terrain.
While the Hero 10 may not include some of the advanced features found in the Hero 12, such as 10-bit recording and timecode sync, it remains an excellent choice for adventurers and content creators.
GoPro Hero 13 vs 12 vs 11 vs 10: Detailed Comparison
Now, let’s have a detailed, pointwise comparison between the three cameras:
Processor
All the models in the GoPro Hero series are powered by the same GP2 processor. This processor ensures that they all deliver robust performance and efficient processing of high-quality video and photos.
While the processor remains consistent across the board, it’s in other aspects that these cameras distinguish themselves.
Image Resolution
In the realm of still photography, the Hero 13, Hero 12 and Hero 11 both offer an impressive 27-megapixel capability. This means they are well-suited for capturing high-resolution images, whether it’s a stunning landscape, a candid moment, or a portrait.
On the other hand, the Hero 10 slightly lags behind in this department, providing 23 megapixels. While this might not be a significant difference for most users, it’s something to consider if photography is a primary focus for you.
Video Resolution
All these models are capable of capturing breathtaking video footage, with a maximum resolution of 5.3K at 60 frames per second or 4K at 120 frames per second.
This high level of video quality ensures that your recordings are not only sharp but also allow for versatile post-production editing. Whether you’re filming your latest adrenaline-fueled adventure or creating cinematic masterpieces, these cameras have you covered.
One significant enhancement differentiating the Hero 10 Black and Hero 11 Black from the Hero 12 and the Hero 13 Black is the incorporation of HDR video support. This feature empowers the Hero 13 and Hero 12 to preserve intricate details in both well-lit and shadowed regions of the footage.
Stabilization
Stabilization is a crucial factor, especially when capturing action-packed moments.
The Hero 13 and Hero 12 take the lead with HyperSmooth 6.0, providing exceptionally smooth footage even in the most turbulent scenarios.
The Hero 11 follows closely with HyperSmooth 5.0, offering impressive stability and ensuring your shots remain steady.
Meanwhile, the Hero 10 features HyperSmooth 4.0, which still delivers reliable stabilization but falls slightly behind the more advanced versions in the Hero 12 and Hero 11.
Bluetooth Audio Support
The Hero 13 and Hero 12 have an exciting feature by offering Bluetooth audio support, allowing you to connect your AirPods or other compatible devices directly to the camera. It doesn’t provide you with the best sound, but could be useful in some situations.
Unfortunately, the Hero 11 and Hero 10 do not offer this Bluetooth audio support.
More info on vlogging with your GoPro:
Water Resistance
All four cameras share the same impressive water resistance, capable of submersion up to 33 feet (10 meters) without the need for external housing. This level of water resistance ensures that you can confidently use these cameras in a variety of aquatic environments, whether you’re snorkeling in clear blue waters or capturing the excitement of a white-water rafting expedition.
Find the best underwater accessories and tips in the article below: GoPro Underwater Guide + Best Accessories
Battery Life
When it comes to battery life, the Hero 13 Black comes with a battery that’s 10% larger than its predecessor, enabling up to 90 minutes of 4K video recording at 30fps.
Improved thermal management ensures better performance, both when the camera is stationary or in motion with airflow, potentially resolving past overheating issues.
GoPro Hero 10-12 models are equipped with the same 1,720mAh battery. However, the real differentiator here lies in how efficiently each camera manages its power, especially when shooting at demanding settings like 5.3K/60 recording mode.
The Hero 12, with its advanced engineering, takes the lead in this department. Despite using the same battery capacity as its predecessors, it can shoot continuously for an impressive 70 minutes in 5.3K/60 recording mode on a single charge.
This substantial improvement in battery performance showcases GoPro’s dedication to optimizing power consumption and ensuring you can capture more of your adventures without interruption.
In contrast, the Hero 11 Black offers a respectable but comparatively shorter battery life.
Shooting in the same demanding 5.3K/60 recording mode, the Hero 11 Black and Hero 10 Black provide approximately 35 minutes of continuous recording before requiring a recharge.
While this is still ample time for many shooting scenarios, it’s worth considering if you have extended recording needs.
Price
Price is another crucial factor to consider when comparing the Hero 10 Black, the Hero 11 Black, the Hero 12 Black and the Hero 13 Black.
Being the latest and most advanced in the series, the Hero 13 and Hero 12 Black has a premium price tag attached to it, reflecting its cutting-edge capabilities and innovative features.
The Hero 11 Black, while offering an array of advanced features, including impressive stabilization and video quality, comes at a slightly lower price point than Hero 12.
The Hero 10 Black, as the earlier model, tends to be more budget-friendly, making it an attractive option for those looking for high-quality performance without breaking the bank.
Check Current Price of GoPro Hero 13 Black:
- Best-in-class 5.3K60 video and legendary durability combine with new HB-Series...
Check Current Price of GoPro Hero 12 Black:
- High Dynamic Range Video plus Photo: HERO12 Black takes its best-in-class image...
- Unbelieveable Image Quality: With 5.3K video that gives you 91% more resolution than...
- Emmy Award- Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization: HyperSmooth continues to set the...
Check Current Price of GoPro Hero 11 Black:
- Revolutionary New Image Sensor: expansive field of view ever on a HERO camera out of...
- Unbelievable Image Quality: With 5.3K video that gives you 91% more resolution than...
- High-Res Photos + Videos, High Frame Rate: HERO11 Black’s new image sensor boosts...
Check Current Price of GoPro Hero 10 Black:
- Revolutionary Processor: Faster. Smoother. Better. The powerful new GP2 engine...
- High-Res Photos plus Videos, High Frame Rate: Step up to the sharpest-shooting GoPro...
- Unbelievable Image Quality: Shoot with fine detail, realistic textures and stunning...
Should You Upgrade To Hero 13?
As a professional videographer, staying up to date with equipment is essential. That’s the only reason why I tend to upgrade to newer models when they come out.
Plus, new lenses and ND filters are just amazing for professional needs.
However, if you use your action camera just for fun or to capture your adventures, then you may as well keep your older GoPro model, which in most cases, is all you need to capture amazing memories.
Instead, focus on the craft itself.
Invest in your education, and I can assure you that it’s going to have a much bigger impact on your videos.
What’s the point of having a shiny piece of gear if you can’t make the most of it?
So, if budget isn’t an issue, then go for the Hero 13. You’ll get all the new upgrades this camera has to offer: longer battery life, HDR video, better stabilization and so on.
Otherwise opt for the HERO 10 or 12/11 which in my opinion are more worth the price at the time I’m writing this post.
Which one will you choose? Let me know down in the comments!
Thanks for reading!
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Hi Andy, Thanks for the comparison. I presently have the Hero10 and was looking at upgrading to the Hero 12. Your comments on the comparison are much appreciated. I will probably stay with the Hero 10 for now and wait for a while. The Hero 10 does do everything I need and more.
Again, thanks the article. Much appreciated
Good choice Richard. The Hero 10 is still very competitive at the moment. Let’s see what GoPro will come up with next year…