The big question remains: Is it worth upgrading?
In this comparison, I’ll break down the differences and give you my honest take on whether you should upgrade to the Hero 13 or stick with the Hero 12, which is still a solid, dependable option for most users.
QUICK TAKE
- Hero 13 adds interchangeable lenses (macro, anamorphic, ultra-wide, ND filters) and a magnetic mounting system.
- Hero 12 includes GPS, missing from the Hero 13.
- Both have HDR, 27MP photos, and 5.3K video at 60fps.
- Hero 13 has a 1900mAh battery for longer recording, while Hero 12 uses a 1720mAh Enduro battery with slightly less runtime.
GoPro Hero 13 vs GoPro Hero 12: Key Specs
Let’s kick things off by comparing the key specs of the GoPro Hero 13 and Hero 12.
Take a look at the table below for a detailed breakdown of their features.
| Specifications | Hero 13 Black | Hero 12 Black |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions (W x H x D) (mm) | 71.8 W x 50.8 H x 33.6 D (mm) | 71.8 W x 50.8 H x 33.6 D (mm) |
| Weight (Camera + Mounting + Battery) | 154g | 154g |
| New accessories | New macro, ultra-wide and anamorphic lenses + automatic ND filters | No |
| Mics | 3 internal mics +New Bluetooth audio support for AirPods + other Bluetooth audio devices for wireless sound recording and voice control | 3 internal mics +New Bluetooth audio support for AirPods + other Bluetooth audio devices for wireless sound recording and voice control |
| Night effects: start trails, Light painting, Vehicle light trails | Yes | Yes |
| Video Resolution | 5.3K: 8:7 (5312x4648) 5.3K: 16:9 (5312x2988) 5.3K (8:7) @30/25/24 fps 5.3K (16:9) @60/50/30/25/24 fps 4K (8:7) @60/50/30/25 fps 4K (9:16) @ 60/50/30/25 fps 4K (16:9) @120/100/60/50/30/25/24 fps | 5.3K: 8:7 (5312x4648) 5.3K: 16:9 (5312x2988) 5.3K (8:7) @30/25/24 fps 5.3K (16:9) @60/50/30/25/24 fps 4K (8:7) @60/50/30/25 fps 4K (9:16) @ 60/50/30/25 fps 4K (16:9) @120/100/60/50/30/25/24 fps |
| Photo Resolution | 27.13MP (5568x4872) | 27.13MP (5568x4872)) |
| Waterproofing | 33ft / 10m (without Housing) 198ft / 60m (with housing) | 33ft / 10m (without Housing) 198ft / 60m (with housing) |
| Battery | 1900mAh Enduro Battery Removable | 1720mAh Enduro Removable |
| Video Stabilization | HyperSmooth 6.0 | HyperSmooth 6.0 |
| Front Display | Yes | Yes |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Protune | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi & Bluetooth | BLE 5.3 | BLE 4.2 |
| GPS | Yes | Yes |
GoPro Hero 13 Review
The GoPro Hero 13 Black is an exciting step up, bringing a range of new features that make it stand out, especially for creators looking to boost their content quality.
- Best-in-class 5.3K60 video and legendary durability combine with new HB-Series...
Watch this GoPro Hero 13 unboxing to see what’s included and get a real-life look at the camera:
While it keeps the same 27MP sensor and 5.3K video resolution as the Hero 12, the real game-changer is the new accessories.
These additions, like interchangeable lenses (macro, anamorphic, and ultra-wide), truly elevate the creative possibilities, letting you capture a wider variety of shots with more flexibility. Plus, the new magnetic mount makes switching setups quick and easy, perfect for dynamic shoots.
The biggest upgrade is in the accessories, and they genuinely make a difference. The new lenses help you get the most out of the Hero 13’s photo and video quality, especially if you’re looking to experiment with close-up or wide-angle shots.
The GPS is also back, making it great for adventure enthusiasts who want to track their data. Add in the improved audio quality with standard and voice modes, faster WiFi 6 transfers, and HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, and the Hero 13 is perfect for anyone ready to take their content to the next level.
How to set up your new Hero 13? Download FREE Cheat Sheet and set up your camera in 5 seconds!
GoPro Hero 12 Review
The GoPro Hero 12 Black is a solid, reliable camera that brings some great features for those looking for simplicity with modern upgrades.
It keeps the same 27MP sensor and 5.3K video resolution, and even adds HDR for photos, enhancing colors and dynamic range. However, it doesn’t come with GPS, which might be a drawback for those who like tracking their adventures. Unlike the Hero 13, the Hero 12 also lacks exciting new lenses, so if you’re not too worried about interchangeable lens options or GPS, this camera is a perfect fit.
The GoPro Hero 12 is a great choice if you want something up-to-date but don’t need all the extra accessories. It’s a straightforward, easy-to-use camera that still delivers HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, ensuring smooth footage even in action-packed scenes. With the HDR photo mode, your images will have improved lighting and contrast, making it an excellent option for casual creators who want great quality without the need for advanced add-ons like the Hero 13 offers. If you’re after a reliable camera with top-notch video and photo quality but don’t need the extra creative tools, the Hero 12 is a fantastic option.
In-Depth Comparison
Here’s a comparison between the GoPro Hero 13 and Hero 12, focusing on the main differences and upgrades:
Accessories
- Hero 13: Supports interchangeable lenses like macro, anamorphic, ultra-wide, and ND filters, giving creators much more flexibility to experiment with different shooting styles and perspectives.
- Hero 12: Lacks interchangeable lenses, so you’re limited to the standard and Max Lens Mod 2.0 for wide-angle shots.
Magnetic Mount
- Hero 13: Features a new magnetic mount, making it easier to quickly change setups and positions during shoots.
- Hero 12: No magnetic mount, sticking to the traditional GoPro folding “fingers” for mounting.
Sensor Size
- Both the Hero 13 and Hero 12 share the same 1/1.9-inch sensor, delivering excellent image quality and a wide 8:7 aspect ratio.
Photos
- Hero 13: Captures 27MP photos with HDR, ensuring better dynamic range and more vibrant colors.
- Hero 12: Also captures 27MP photos with HDR, so there’s no difference here in terms of photo resolution or HDR quality.
Video Bit-Rate
- Hero 13: Records at a higher bit-rate of 120Mbps, providing superior video quality with more detail, especially in fast-motion scenes.
- Hero 12: Has a slightly lower bit-rate of 100Mbps, which still offers great video quality but with a bit less detail than the Hero 13.
HyperSmooth Stabilization
- Hero 13: Equipped with HyperSmooth 6.0, offering smoother footage with improved AutoBoost and more precise Horizon Lock.
- Hero 12: Also uses HyperSmooth 6.0, meaning stabilization performance is on par with the Hero 13.
Field of View (FOV)
- Hero 13: With the Ultra-Wide Lens Mod, it provides an expanded 177° FOV, offering more immersive wide-angle shots. More about GoPro Hero 13 FOV>>>
- Hero 12: The Max Lens Mod 2.0 offers a slightly smaller FOV of 155°, which is still wide but less expansive than the Hero 13’s option.
Battery Life
- Hero 13: Features a larger 1900mAh battery, providing longer recording times, especially for 4K video at 30fps (up to 90 minutes).
- Hero 12: Equipped with a 1720mAh Enduro battery, offering up to 80 minutes of 4K video at 30fps, so slightly shorter battery life compared to the Hero 13.
GoPro Hero 13 vs GoPro Hero 12: Should You Upgrade?
The Hero 13 is definitely worth the upgrade, even if you don’t plan on using all the creative lenses right away.
It’s nice to have the option to explore those interchangeable lenses like macro and anamorphic in the future as your needs grow. Plus, the 1900mAh battery has a completely new shape, which could make it compatible with future models—a big bonus. And while the Hero 13 lacks GPS, it still excels in other areas.
On the other hand, the Hero 12 is still a great camera, especially if you already own it. There’s not much point in upgrading unless you’re a creator looking for new ways to capture unique footage, like using wider angles or specialty lenses. For everyday use, the Hero 12’s GPS and solid performance make it more than capable. The decision to upgrade really comes down to how much you’ll benefit from the Hero 13’s extra creative tools.
Cannot make up your mind yet?
Find more GoPro comparisons:
- GoPro Hero 13 vs 12 vs 11 vs 10
- GoPro Hero 12 vs GoPro Hero 11
- GoPro Hero 12 vs GoPro Hero 9
- GoPro Hero 12 vs GoPro Hero 8
Thanks for reading! 🙏
I hope this guide helped you learn about which GoPro is better for you – GoPro Hero 13 vs GoPro Hero 12 🙂
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