Ask The Editors: Is It Time For a GoPro Upgrade?
Don’t need to be a pro to have need of a GoPro.
Better in these instances is always a matter of opinion – not to be vague but if you are happy with the footage you are capturing on your 12, companies hope you’ll invest in their latest and greatest by enticing buyers with features.
As it stands, the Hero 13 Black is the first major update to GoPro’s flagship camera in several generations. It looks similar and has a very similar form factor to the 12 but the big feature this time is interchangeable lenses that lock on via magnets.
In addition to the internal standard lens, there is an Ultra Wide Lens ($100) pushing a 177-degree field of view, a new Macro Lens ($130) for close-up detail, and coming soon an Anamorphic Lens ($130) with a 21:9 aspect ratio for a more cinematic look.
They are also able to offer a filter pack now using this magnetic mounting technology that will allow for controlled motion blur.
Additionally, resolution is up to 5.3K at 60 frames per second with the flagship model thanks to a 27.6 megapixel sensor.
We would say that if you are the type of rider who can capitalize on the new lens options, it may be an upgrade worth taking. The standard GoPro 13 costs half the price at $200 but tops out at 4K footage (12 megapixel sensor) and foregoes the lens options, so we’d just stick with the 12 rather than go that route.
If you’re looking to compare specs on a 1:1 basis, GoPro’s official site does offer a camera comparison tool that can be accessed by clicking here.
