GoPro released the HERO13 in Q4 of 2024 and GPS is back! If you recall, they removed GPS from the HERO12 due to overheating and battery issues, preventing us recons from creating data overlays and using it as a (quite capable) data acquisition system.

Fortunately, they figured out how to reintegrate GPS, increasing battery size by 10%, and adding thermal fins.

 
 

We've got more mounting options now, too. In addition to the built-in 1/4-20 mount introduced with the 12 and the retractable finger mounts introduced with the P8, the 13 offers a quick and secure magnetic latch.

The sensor size is the same as the 12, but for the high-speed lovers, the 13 can capture 240 fps up to 2.7K and now 400 fps at 720p. Handy for testing.

GoPro is clearly targeting the higher-end market, offering detachable lenses and the Media Mod, which includes a built-in directional mic, a 3.5mm mic port, an HDMI out port, and two cold shoes. You can also add a grip with hours of extra power, creating a system capable of film-making.

The HERO13 Black is $400 and extra batteries are $30 a pop. None of the old GoPro batteries will fit this beast, so you'll have to start fresh.

I s'pect I'll be adding the HERO13 to my kit. The GoPros are a handy tool I find myself using on just about every case, and certainly during every testing session.

Keep exploring,

Lou Peck
​Lightpoint | Axiom