GoPro Hero 12 Vs 13 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

GoPro Hero 12 & 13 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as image quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the GoPro Hero 13 rather than the GoPro Hero 12. 

Why Do I Recommend The GoPro Hero 13

  • The GoPro HERO13 Black features an HLG HDR & G-Log color profile, providing superior video quality, enhanced dynamic range, and greater flexibility in post-production, compared to the GoPro HERO12 Black’s standard HDR.
  • GoPro HERO13 supports HB-Series lenses, including Ultra Wide, Macro, and Anamorphic options for more creative shooting possibilities and automatic lens detection, whereas the HERO12 Black is limited to the Max Lens Mod.
  • It has advanced Burst Slo-Mo modes, enabling 5.3K at 120fps, 900p at 360fps, and 720p at 400fps for delivering smoother, higher-resolution slow-motion footage compared to the HERO12 Black’s 4K at 120fps.
  • The GoPro HERO13 comes with a magnetic mounting & charging system for allowing faster accessory swaps and hassle-free power management, whereas the HERO12 Black relies on a traditional mounting system with screws.
  • GoPro HERO13 Black features an improved Enduro battery with 10% higher capacity, ensuring longer recording times and better performance in extreme conditions, whereas the HERO12 Black retains the standard Enduro battery.
  • It has GPS tracking for location-based overlays, performance tracking, and geotagging, which is absent in the HERO12 Black.

Maybe the GoPro Hero 12 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the GoPro Hero 13. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

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Side By Side Comparison

FeatureGoPro Hero 13GoPro Hero 12
HDR SupportHLG HDRStandard HDR
Slo-Mo Modes5.3K at 120fps, 900p at 360fps, 720p at 400fps4K at 120fps, 2.7K at 240fps
Video Codec10-bit in G-Log10-bit color profile
Lens CompatibilitySupports HB-Series lenses (Ultra Wide, Macro, Anamorphic)Supports Max Lens Mod
Lens Auto-DetectionYesNo
Mounting SystemMagnetic mounting & chargingStandard folding fingers
Battery Capacity10% higher capacityStandard Enduro battery
GPS FunctionalityYes, reintroducedNo GPS
ConnectivityWi-Fi 6 supportStandard Wi-Fi
Audio RecordingEnhanced wind noise reductionStandard audio system
AI-Powered FeaturesSmart framing & auto editsBasic auto-editing features
Live StreamingImproved stabilization for streamingStandard HyperSmooth for streaming
PriceCheck GoPro 13 PriceCheck GoPro 12 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Video Resolution and Frame Rates: Both cameras offer impressive video capabilities, supporting 5.3K resolution at 60 frames per second (fps).
  • Photo Resolution: Both models feature a 27.6-megapixel sensor, delivering high-resolution still images. This ensures sharp and detailed photos, suitable for large prints or cropping without significant loss of quality.
  • Image Sensor Size and Aperture: Equipped with a 1/1.9″ image sensor and an f/2.5 aperture, both cameras perform well in various lighting conditions. The sensor size balances light sensitivity and depth of field, while the aperture allows ample light intake, enhancing performance in low-light scenarios.
  • Stabilization: Incorporating HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, both devices provide gimbal-like steadiness. This technology compensates for camera shake, ensuring smooth and stable footage even during dynamic activities.
  • 10-Bit Color: Support for 10-bit color depth in both models allows for over a billion color variations. This results in richer and more vibrant visuals, offering greater flexibility in post-production color grading.
  • Loop Recording: The loop recording feature enables continuous recording by overwriting the oldest footage once the memory card is full. This is particularly useful for applications like dashcam recording or monitoring activities.
  • Live Streaming: Both cameras offer live streaming capabilities, allowing users to broadcast events in real-time. This feature is beneficial for vloggers, influencers, and professionals who need to share live content with their audience.
  • Waterproof Rating: With a waterproof rating of up to 10 meters, both models are designed to withstand underwater adventures without additional housing. This makes them suitable for activities like snorkeling, surfing, or rainy conditions.
  • Dimensions and Weight: Sharing identical dimensions (71.8mm × 50.8mm × 33.6mm) and a weight of 154 grams, both cameras are compact and lightweight. This design ensures portability and ease of use during various activities.
  • Battery Type: Both models utilize a removable Enduro Li-Ion battery, known for its enhanced performance in cold conditions and extended recording times compared to standard batteries.
  • Connectivity: Featuring Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, both cameras facilitate easy pairing with smartphones and other devices. This allows for quick file transfers, remote control, and seamless integration with GoPro’s mobile app for editing and sharing content.
  • Touchscreen: Equipped with a responsive touchscreen interface, both models offer intuitive navigation through settings and playback, enhancing user experience.
  • Audio Features: Both cameras support advanced audio functionalities, including 3.5mm Audio Mic Input, Compatible with the Media Mod or Pro.

Common Features

FeatureGoPro Hero 13GoPro Hero 12
Photo Resolution27.6MP (5599×4927)27.6MP (5599×4927)
Image Sensor Size1/1.9″1/1.9″
Aperturef/2.5f/2.5
StabilizationHyperSmooth 6.0HyperSmooth 6.0
10-Bit ColorYesYes
Loop RecordingYesYes
Live StreamingYesYes
Waterproof RatingUp to 10 metersUp to 10 meters
Dimensions71.8mm (W) × 50.8mm (H) × 33.6mm (D)71.8mm (W) × 50.8mm (H) × 33.6mm (D)
Weight154g154g
Battery TypeRemovable Enduro Li-IonRemovable Enduro Li-Ion
ConnectivityWi-Fi, BluetoothWi-Fi, Bluetooth
TouchscreenYesYes
Price Check GoPro 13 Price Check GoPro 12 Price

FAQ

1. Do both cameras support HDR video?

Yes, but the HERO13 Black introduces HLG HDR, offering improved dynamic range and better highlights, while the HERO12 Black supports standard HDR video.

2. Can I use the same accessories and mounts for both models?

Yes, both cameras share the same physical dimensions and mounting system, making them compatible with most GoPro mounts, cases, and accessories. However, the HERO13 Black supports HB-Series lenses, whereas the HERO12 Black is limited to the Max Lens Mod.

3. Is there a difference in photo quality between the HERO13 Black and HERO12 Black?

No, both cameras have a 27MP sensor and support RAW photo capture, ensuring high-quality still images.

4. Do both models have a touchscreen?

Yes, both feature a responsive touchscreen, allowing for easy navigation and previewing footage directly on the device.

5. Are they both waterproof without an additional housing?

Yes, both the HERO13 Black and HERO12 Black are waterproof up to 10 meters (33 feet) without any additional housing.

6. Can both cameras be used for live streaming?

Yes, both support live streaming, allowing users to broadcast video in real-time via platforms like YouTube and Facebook.

7. Do both models support external microphones?

Yes, both support external microphones via the Media Mod or Pro 3.5mm Mic Adapter, ensuring high-quality audio recording.

8. Are both cameras compatible with the GoPro Quik app?

Yes, both models work seamlessly with the GoPro Quik app, allowing users to edit, transfer, and share footage wirelessly.

9. Do both cameras offer the same battery life?

Both use the Enduro battery, but the HERO13 Black has a 10% higher capacity, providing slightly longer recording times compared to the HERO12 Black.

10. Do they have GPS tracking?

The HERO13 Black reintroduces GPS tracking, while the HERO12 Black does not have GPS functionality.

11. Is there any difference in wireless connectivity?

Yes, the HERO13 Black supports Wi-Fi 6, offering faster file transfers, while the HERO12 Black uses standard Wi-Fi.

12. Are both cameras suitable for professional videography?

Yes, both models offer 10-bit color depth, RAW photo capture, and high-resolution video, making them excellent for professional use. However, the HERO13 Black has HLG HDR and G-Log color profile, which provide greater flexibility in post-production.

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