GoPro has been busy so far in 2026. Not because the company launched a flood of new products, but because it spent much of the year preparing for what might be its biggest release in years.

The Mission Series is the company’s most important product in years, not just because it uses a brand-new chip, but also because a lot is riding on its success. So, how good is it?

"It's not Hero 14. It's Mission 1."

Before we go any further, it’s important to note that the Mission cameras aren’t to replace the Hero series. GoPro says the Hero line has been pulling the company in two directions for years, with some consumers wanting smaller, lighter, simpler cameras, while professionals demanded better image quality, low-light performance and production features.

The Mission Series is designed for the latter group. If you want a do-it-all compact camera for POV videos, the GoPro Hero 13 Black is still your best option. However, if you prioritise low-light performance, image quality and battery life, the Mission Series appears to offer significant advantages over the Hero line.

GoPro says a huge amount of time has been devoted to optimising the Mission Series’ performance via the new one-inch sensor, larger pixels and GP3 processor; the company clearly sees low-light performance as one of the headline upgrades over Hero and rival action cameras.

Professionals will also appreciate features such as 10-bit colour, GP Log 2, timecode sync, 240 Mbps recording, HDMI output, 32-bit float audio, and the interchangeable-lens Mission One Pro ILS. The Mission cameras also allow filmmakers to record footage using the full sensor width and height (“open gate”), providing more flexibility in post-production.

"It's really a cinema camera."

I’ve been testing the Mission 1 Pro for a few days, and it’s an impressive piece of equipment. It has a distinctly GoPro feel, but the camera is much more versatile than the Hero ever was. I’m not a professional camera operator, even though I made money in the past as a photographer (mainly properties and weddings).

I mention this because my testing probably doesn't reflect exactly how GoPro intends the Mission 1 Pro to be used. In the last few days, I couldn’t help but treat the camera as a GoPro, looking for ways to capture action or POV footage. As mentioned above, the brand says the Hero is better for these purposes.

What should one use the camera for, then? I tried shooting portraits, but the lens is quite wide, meaning I had to get uncomfortably close to people to fill the frame. That's fine for landscapes or action, less so for human subjects.

I’m yet to test low-light performance, as there is plenty of light around at the moment, so I will have to create low-light scenes at home somehow to see how the Mission 1 Pro performs in lower lux levels.

Dynamic range is impressive. Backlit subjects, even when the light source is the midday sun, will have plenty of details left to work with in post. Not to mention, the bright blue sky remains recognisable with minimal loss of detail. So far, dynamic range has been one of the camera's strongest attributes.

"You just don't need to worry."

Battery life saw a massive boost, thanks to the new chip. GoPro claims the camera won’t overheat even in an unventilated room, which has historically been an Achilles' heel for the brand. I’ve been using it during the hottest bank holiday weekend in recent memory, and not once has the Mission 1 Pro maxed out from the heat.

It’s all the more impressive considering the actual camera body isn't much larger than the Hero 13 Black. The lens housing is noticeably larger to accommodate the bigger sensor, yet the camera still uses the same Enduro batteries as previous generations. You can use standard Enduro batteries, and they will work just fine in the Mission Series.

If it uses the same batteries as before, how can the Mission 1 Pro run for so much longer without overheating? It’s all down to the new GP3 chip, optimising tasks in the background. GoPro has clearly found a way to utilise AI effectively, rather than just giving you yet another AI assistant.

"We're never interested in generating any type of content."

GoPro's approach to AI is focused on machine learning rather than content generation. Instead, the brand positions AI as a behind-the-scenes assistant that helps optimise settings, colour and stabilisation rather than inventing pixels or creating content.

Even though the emphasis is on the pro users, the Mission 1 Pro has a ton of preloaded shooting modes, including Sport POV, dive, vlog, etc. The camera can also track subjects, a feature I thoroughly enjoyed using. Essentially, the Mission 1 Pro can ‘follow’ you around without moving (to a certain degree), creating more dynamic footage than standard action cams.

AI is also used to further enhance low-light performance. The new GP3 processor includes a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU), which GoPro says is heavily involved in its low-light processing pipeline. The company claims it uses AI models for noise reduction, detail preservation, dynamic range optimisation and balancing image cleanliness against excessive processing.

“The ultimate versatile camera"

I’m a bit torn when it comes to evaluating the GoPro Mission 1 Pro. On the one hand, it is the most impressive camera GoPro has ever put out. The large sensor, new processor and improved battery life make it the most capable camera GoPro has produced to date.

On the other hand, the brand wants the Mission Series to transcend action cameras and to be treated as an alternative to larger cine cameras. GoPro isn’t trying to create a better Hero; instead, it wants the Mission Series to be used for Netflix movies and other professional productions.

It's impressive in practice, not just on paper, but I need more time with the camera before deciding if it truly delivers on GoPro's ambitions. So far, the signs are encouraging.

The Mission 1 Pro is available to pre-order now from GoPro UK, GoPro US, GoPro EU and GoPro AU, with prices from £600 / $700 / €700 / AU$1,100.

GoPro could be heading toward one of the biggest shake-ups in its history after the company confirmed it is exploring a potential sale or merger following growing interest in its defence and aerospace ambitions.

The action camera giant revealed during its Q1 2026 earnings call that it has formally launched a strategic review process following multiple inquiries related to its recent expansion beyond the traditional creator and consumer camera markets.

GoPro founder and CEO Nicholas Woodman said the company believes there is “unrealised value” in its technology, intellectual property and manufacturing capabilities, adding that the board is now evaluating “strategic alternatives” to maximise shareholder value.

“We received several inbound inquiries related to M&A,” Woodman explained during the earnings call. “The range of interest led us to make the decision that we should run a process to evaluate what kind of value we could unlock on behalf of shareholders.”

The move follows GoPro’s April announcement that it was formally exploring opportunities in the defence and aerospace sectors with the help of consulting giant Oliver Wyman.

The company said its cameras are already used in “demanding defence, government, and aerospace applications” where durability, stabilisation and image quality are mission-critical.

From mountain bikes to space missions

GoPro’s growing aerospace ambitions already appear to be gaining traction.

During the call, Woodman revealed that modified GoPro cameras were recently used externally on NASA’s Artemis II Orion spacecraft, while off-the-shelf models were also deployed inside the spacecraft to capture footage for an upcoming National Geographic documentary.

“Everyone at GoPro is deeply honoured that our cameras played even a small role in the historic Artemis II mission,” Woodman said. “It’s incredibly meaningful to all of us.”

A very different kind of GoPro camera

The strategic announcement also arrives just weeks after the launch of the new MISSION 1 Series, which arguably represents GoPro’s most ambitious hardware push in years.

The lineup includes the MISSION 1, MISSION 1 PRO and MISSION 1 PRO ILS, the latter featuring an interchangeable lens system compatible with Micro Four Thirds lenses.

Woodman described the cameras as “the world’s most compact cinema camera line” and said the new models are designed to appeal to professional filmmakers, television producers and high-end creators in addition to existing GoPro users.

The new cameras also introduce a 50MP 1-inch sensor and GoPro’s next-generation GP3 processor, with the company heavily emphasising professional-grade video performance, thermal efficiency and reliability.

It’s a notable shift for a company that has spent years competing largely in the action camera category against rivals such as DJI and Insta360.

The financial backdrop paints a tougher picture

The strategic pivot comes amid a difficult financial period for the company.

GoPro reported Q1 revenue of $99 million, down 26% year over year, while camera sell-through fell 29%. Subscription revenue remained flat at $27 million, while subscriber numbers declined 8% to 2.26 million.

The company’s gross margin also dropped sharply from 32.1% to 4.3%, partly due to component purchase commitments and slow-moving inventory charges.

Even so, GoPro appears keen to frame the current moment as the start of a broader transformation rather than a retreat.

“We’ve just entered a new era of professional performance capability with the launch of our new MISSION 1 series of cameras,” Woodman said. “We’re excited for the impact they can have on our business.”

[via GoPro Investor Relations]

Seemingly, there is a bit of a lull in action camera innovation. One might argue that not much has changed since Insta360 launched its Leica co-branded Ace Pro camera, which was the company's first GoPro-esque model with 4K resolution and a flip-out display.

Shop all Insta360 deals on Amazon

It has now been superseded by the Ace Pro 2, but if there is anything we learned from the recent Artemis II NASA mission, it is that you don't need the latest camera gear to take amazing photos (being in space helps, though). The Ace Pro is currently 30% off at Amazon, the cheapest it's ever been!

The Insta360 Ace Pro is a flagship action camera designed to rival GoPro and DJI, with a strong focus on image quality and AI-assisted shooting.

It uses a comparatively large 1/1.3-inch sensor paired with a Leica-engineered lens, helping it capture more light and improve dynamic range, especially in low-light conditions.

Video is a headline feature, with support for 8K at 24fps, alongside 4K at up to 120fps and 1080p at 240fps for slow motion. Still images top out at 48MP, and the camera supports RAW shooting.

A standout design element is the 2.4-inch flip touchscreen, which makes framing yourself far easier than on most fixed-screen action cams. It also features Insta360’s FlowState stabilisation and Horizon Lock, plus AI tools like Highlights Assistant and low-light “PureVideo” mode.

Other key specs include waterproofing to 10m, fast charging (80% in ~22 minutes), and a 1650mAh battery delivering up to ~90 minutes of 4K recording.

GoPro has finally revealed how much its new Mission 1 cameras will cost, and the numbers confirm what many suspected from the start.

The standard Mission 1 will retail for $599 / £529 / €599 / AU$950, while both the Mission 1 Pro and the upcoming Mission 1 Pro ILS are priced at $699 / £599 / €699 / AU$1,100.

In the case of the flagship Mission 1 Pro ILS, this price is for the body only, so the lens price will be added on top.

GoPro doesn't seem to be selling Micro Four Thirds (MFT) lenses on its website and relies on third-party products to kit out its new camera.

On a mission to move up

All three Mission cameras are built around the same core platform, built around a 1-inch, 50MP sensor and GoPro’s new GP3 processor.

The base model supports 8K at 30fps, while the Pro pushes to 8K at 60fps, alongside high-speed modes reaching 960fps at 1080p.

The inclusion of 10-bit GP-Log2 colour, up to 240 Mbps bitrate, and Open Gate recording further reinforces that the Mission 1 Series is designed with post-production in mind rather than quick social clips.

The cameras support 32-bit float recording via a four-mic array, a feature typically reserved for dedicated audio gear.

Why GoPro thinks it can charge more

GoPro is clearly trying to move away from the standard action camera market with the Mission 1 Series.

The company appears to be targeting creators who want a single, compact camera capable of both rugged shooting and high-end production workflows.

That’s reflected in features like log colour profiles, extended dynamic range (up to 14 stops), and improved thermal performance for longer recording sessions.

GoPro has spent years competing on stabilisation, durability and ease of use, but rivals like DJI and Insta360 have caught up, and, in some areas, overtaken it.

Moving upmarket allows GoPro to differentiate again, this time on image quality and professional-grade capabilities.

A different kind of GoPro

At $599–$699, the Mission 1 series is undeniably expensive compared to the rest of the action cam market.

But the larger sensor, high-bitrate 8K video, pro-level audio, and, in the case of the ILS, interchangeable lenses, make these cameras sit closer to compact cinema tools than helmet-mounted rugged units.

That, ultimately, is why GoPro believes it can get away with the premium pricing. Will they succeed? We'll find out soon enough.

Head over to GoPro for more information on its new cameras.

[via Yahoo Tech]

GoPro has unveiled its highly anticipated Mission 1 Series a few days earlier than expected.

Even though we knew the brand was about to unveil new cameras at NAB this week, we didn't know just how far the GoPro was willing to go to change the narrative.

That said, based on the teasers the company has been putting out in recent weeks, we knew the new cameras would push the devices beyond traditional action cameras and into compact cinema territory.

“Anything you could do in Photoshop”

The range includes three models: Mission 1, Mission 1 Pro, and Mission 1 Pro ILS, built around a new 50MP 1-inch sensor (roughly 4× larger in surface area than the GoPro Hero 13 Black's 1/1.9" sensor) and the GP3 processor, with a focus on higher resolution, improved low-light performance, longer runtimes, and greater thermal efficiency.

Ahead of launch, GoPro’s Senior Manager of Image Processing, Alex Cashman, said that the goal was to bring advanced image processing directly into the camera.

“Anything you could do to an image in Photoshop is what my team trains the camera to do live while you’re recording,” he explained.

He said that with the Mission series, the team's aim was to deliver professional-level output without adding complexity for the user.

The Mission 1 Pro and Mission 1 Pro ILS support 8K video at up to 60 fps, 4K at up to 240 fps, and 1080p at up to 960 fps, as well as 50 MP stills and open-gate capture for flexible editing.

The standard Mission 1 offers 8K30 and 4K120 but retains the same sensor and processor.

GoPro is also pushing data rates higher, with bitrates reaching up to 240 Mbps, alongside 10-bit colour, HLG HDR, and the new GP-Log2 profile for more flexible grading.

While action cams have been pushing pixel count and low-light performance for years, the above specs are more often associated with far larger and more expensive camera systems.

Low light is no longer a weakness

Low-light performance has been a known limitation for GoPro, and it has been directly addressed here.

The combination of a larger sensor and updated image processing delivers up to 14 stops of dynamic range, improving detail in both shadows and highlights.

Cashman said the shift reflects how people now use GoPro cameras.

“We saw people using them more for vlogging and filming in cities at night. We wanted to make sure we did it right.”

Thermal performance and battery life have also been prioritised, with GoPro claiming more than five hours (!) of recording at 1080p30 and over three hours at 4K30 on a single charge, supported by the new Enduro 2 battery and GP3 efficiency gains.

“Unless you’re shooting in the most extreme mode, your camera’s going to run until it runs out of battery,” Cashman said.

A processor that actually changes things

The GP3 processor underpins most of these improvements, and, according to Cashman, it dynamically manages performance to balance power and efficiency.

“It knows when it doesn’t have to be working hard and when it does. It just runs much more efficiently across the board.”

The chip also enables AI-assisted image processing and scene optimisation.

GoPro is introducing 13 capture modes designed to handle specific scenarios, from vlogging and low-light shooting to underwater use.

These modes use scene detection and machine learning to automatically optimise settings, while manual controls remain available for more advanced users.

The Mission 1 Series uses a four-microphone setup with improved stereo recording and wind noise reduction, and supports 32-bit float audio to prevent clipping.

Bluetooth audio and external mic support via USB-C are also included.

The interchangeable lens twist no one expected

The new flagship Mission 1 Pro ILS is the most significant addition, as it creates a new class of ultra-compact mirrorless cinema camera.

It introduces a Micro Four Thirds mount, allowing you to attach interchangeable lenses.

Of all the upgrades, Micro Four Thirds support is the clearest sign of where GoPro is heading.

The Mission 1 Pro ILS is no longer limited to a fixed ultra-wide lens and can tap into a vast ecosystem of existing optics, from fast primes to telephoto zooms.

The Mission 1 Series as a whole also features a larger rear OLED display, redesigned buttons that are easier to use with gloves and a new lens system with a removable hood to reduce glare and improve durability.

The cameras are waterproof to 20 metres without a housing, with an optional case extending that further.

GoPro is aiming higher

Alongside the cameras, GoPro is launching a broader ecosystem, including a wireless mic system, an updated Media Mod, a new grip, ND filters, a higher-capacity battery, and creator-focused bundles with additional audio and stabilisation tools.

With the Mission 1 Series, GoPro is expanding beyond action cameras and targeting creators who might otherwise use mirrorless or compact cinema setups.

Cashman summarised the positioning clearly, saying that the goal is to deliver a professional-grade camera that retains GoPro’s durability and ease of use.

As he put it, “It’s everything a GoPro has ever been turned up to about a thousand.”

More information about the new cameras, including price and availability, is expected to be announced in the next couple of months.

GoPro has quietly dropped some of the most striking space images we’ve seen in years, and they didn’t come from a traditional space camera.

The Artemis II mission will go down in history for a number of reasons, one of which is the variety of cameras the crew used to capture stunning photos of the Earth and the Moon.

Some of the most iconic shots we've seen so far were captured with an iPhone, while others were shot with a 10-year-old DSLR (the very capable Nikon D5) to capture those stunning space shots.

And while all images are beautiful, the ones that really blew my mind are GoPro's, which shared five photos from the mission on its social media over the last few days.

These include everything from Earthset behind the Moon to a near-total solar eclipse seen from deep space.

One frame captures the Moon in shadow with a glowing halo of sunlight, while another shows the Orion spacecraft drifting past a sharply detailed lunar surface.

There’s even a shot featuring Saturn and Mars as tiny points of light, something you’d expect from a telescope, not an action camera.

According to the captions, the footage was captured using a GoPro mounted on the Orion spacecraft during the crew’s journey.

Crucially, GoPro hasn’t confirmed which camera was used, a not-so-subtle hint at what’s coming next.

The omission that feels deliberate

As previously reported, GoPro is expected to unveil a new generation of cameras at NAB 2026 next week, powered by its upcoming GP3 chip.

The company has already teased major improvements in low-light performance, and if the space photos were taken using the next-gen GoPros, they appear to back that up.

Capturing usable footage in space is no small feat: lighting conditions shift dramatically, contrast levels are extreme, and noise can easily ruin darker scenes.

Yet these images look clean, detailed, sharp and surprisingly well-exposed.

It's worth reiterating that even though GoPros were always famous for their image quality, the photos shared by the brand are next-level stuff.

If this is indeed early output from a GP3-powered camera, it suggests that GoPro is finally addressing one of its biggest weaknesses: low-light shooting.

That said, the gorgeous photos raise more questions than they answer.

Is the camera positioned inside or outside the craft? How big is it? Does it use interchangeable lenses? Is GoPro operating it remotely, or are NASA / the astronauts responsible for the images?

The mission behind the moment

The Artemis II mission marks a major milestone for NASA, sending astronauts on a crewed journey around the Moon for the first time in over 50 years.

The Orion spacecraft has been orbiting and documenting the lunar environment, with astronauts expected to return to Earth shortly after completing their planned trajectory around the Moon.

While the mission itself is historic, it’s also becoming an unexpected showcase for consumer camera tech operating in one of the harshest environments imaginable.

And if these images are anything to go by, GoPro’s next move could be its most important in years.

GoPro has confirmed it will unveil a new generation of cameras at the NAB Show 2026, and these are likely to include models beyond just action cameras.

"Our customers have made it clear they want more of everything from GoPro—larger sensors, world-class low-light performance, higher resolutions and frame rates, next-level image quality, improved audio capabilities, longer runtimes and bulletproof reliability in high-heat conditions…everything, and more," said GoPro's founder and CEO, Nicholas Woodman.

"And that's exactly what we're giving them with our newest line of GP3-powered cameras, debuting at NAB this April."

The brand recently teased “next-generation” footage on social media that looked nothing like typical action camera output.

The clips featured shallow depth of field, macro detail and controlled low-light scenes, visuals that strongly suggest larger sensors and more advanced optics.

GoPro says it will debut multiple new cameras in Las Vegas between April 19 and 22, all powered by its new GP3 processor.

The GP3 chip is the turning point

Announced earlier this month, GP3 is GoPro’s most powerful imaging processor to date, built on a 5nm architecture with more than double the pixel-processing power of GP2.

It also introduces a dedicated AI neural processing unit, enabling real-time scene recognition, subject detection, and more advanced image processing, features typically reserved for higher-end cameras.

GoPro says the chip will deliver major gains in low-light performance, resolution, frame rates and thermal efficiency, while also unlocking longer runtimes.

The company has already confirmed it’s designed to power a wider range of devices, including vlogging cameras and even compact cinema-grade systems.

A shift the CEO has already hinted at

Speaking during the company’s latest earnings call, CEO Nicholas Woodman described GP3 as the most significant leap in GoPro’s imaging technology to date, with the potential to push the brand into entirely new categories.

That lines up with both the teaser footage and the wording in the chip announcement, which repeatedly points to a move upmarket.

The NAB announcement confirms GoPro will showcase several new cameras, not just one.

Combined with everything we’ve seen so far, that strongly suggests a broader portfolio push.

Action cameras will almost certainly remain part of the lineup, but they may no longer be the main event.

Between the cinematic teaser, the GP3’s capabilities and the company’s own messaging, GoPro appears to be targeting creators who want more control over image quality, depth and low-light performance.

There are still plenty of unknowns, including product names, pricing and exact form factors.

But taken together, the teasers, the chip launch and now the NAB confirmation point to GoPro is preparing its biggest reset in years, and this time, it’s aiming well beyond action cameras.

GoPro will exhibit at Central Hall, Booth C5519, at the Las Vegas Convention Centre.

[via PR Newswire]

GoPro has shared a new teaser on social media showing off what it calls footage captured on the “next generation of GoPro,” but the clips look nothing like what you’d expect from a traditional action camera.

The short montage features a series of striking shots, including a close-up of flames, detailed macro footage of foliage, a crisp view of the moon and an extreme close-up of a human eye.

Across each scene, a caption reads: “Captured on the next generation of GoPro.”

The simple teaser raises a bigger question: what exactly is GoPro preparing to launch?

This doesn’t look like action cam footage

GoPro cameras have long been defined by their ultra-wide field of view, deep focus and rugged versatility.

That’s what makes them ideal for capturing fast-moving action, but it also means they rarely produce the kind of shallow depth of field seen in this teaser.

The latest GoPro Hero 13 Black does feature a macro lens attachment, but I can confidently say the quality of the macro shots is nowhere near the ones showcased in the social post.

Several shots in the clip show pronounced background blur, precise subject isolation and a level of macro detail that would typically require a much larger sensor or dedicated optics.

The low-light scenes, particularly the fire and moon footage, also appear cleaner and more controlled than what we’ve historically seen from GoPro’s existing lineup.

The footage suggests this wasn’t captured on a conventional action camera, or at least not one that behaves like any GoPro we’ve used before.

GoPro has already hinted at a shift

GoPro has been laying the groundwork for a broader imaging strategy over the past year, most notably with the introduction of its next-generation GP3 processor.

The company says the new chip will power a wider range of devices beyond action cameras, including more advanced imaging products aimed at creators.

Improvements tied to GP3 include significantly better low-light performance, enhanced image processing and AI-assisted scene handling, all areas where GoPro has historically lagged behind larger camera systems.

More tellingly, GoPro has also referenced plans to move into higher-end categories, including ultra-premium compact cameras designed for more cinematic use cases.

A new category for GoPro?

GoPro has been busy building an empire beyond action cameras, a space increasingly saturated by up-and-coming brands and giants such as DJI and Insta360.

And even though the company has burned itself with projects like the Karma drone, the new approach feels much more on-brand and grounded in what GoPro is best known for: incredible camera performance and reliable hardware.

The teaser footage aligns closely with the brand's ambitions, shifting the tone to a new type of GoPro device.

Instead of competing purely with the best action cameras, the company may be positioning itself closer to creator-focused tools like handheld gimbal cameras or compact cinema rigs.

There’s also the possibility that GoPro is simply demonstrating what its next-generation processing can achieve across future products.

For now, GoPro hasn’t confirmed what hardware the footage was shot on or when these next-generation products will arrive.

But based on what we’ve seen and what the company has already said, it looks increasingly likely that GoPro is preparing to expand well beyond its action-camera roots.

GoPro has hinted that its next generation of cameras could expand far beyond traditional action cameras, as the company prepares to launch its new GP3 processor later this year.

Speaking during the company’s latest earnings call, GoPro founder and CEO Nicholas Woodman described the upcoming chip as a turning point for the brand’s imaging technology.

“Our new exclusive GP3 processor represents the most significant advancement in processing power and image quality in GoPro’s history,” Woodman said.

According to the company, the chip will power a new wave of GoPro cameras launching from Q2 2026 onwards.

While GoPro hasn’t revealed specific models yet, comments from executives suggest the processor could enable entirely new models alongside the company’s traditional action camera lineup.

A move beyond action cameras

One of the most telling remarks during the call concerned GoPro’s ambitions in low-light imaging.

Woodman acknowledged that the company’s previous GP2 processor, which powers current-gen cameras, including the Hero 13 Black and MAX 2, is limited in its performance in low-light conditions, which held the brand back in certain parts of the camera market.

“GP2’s low light constraint hampered GoPro’s ability to compete in the fast-growing premium low light-capable camera category,” Woodman said.

That category, he noted, represents a market of roughly 2 to 2.5 million units annually. With GP3, GoPro appears intent on targeting that segment more aggressively.

The new processor is built on a 5-nanometre architecture, compared to the 12-nanometre design used in GP2, and features more than double the pixel processing power of its predecessor.

It also introduces a dedicated AI neural processing unit (NPU) designed to improve image quality, particularly in challenging lighting conditions.

In internal testing, GoPro claims the chip delivers 40% to 90% longer camera runtimes than competing devices, alongside improved thermal performance and better image quality.

New professional product categories

Perhaps the most intriguing comment from the call was Woodman’s suggestion that the chip could help GoPro expand into new areas of the digital imaging market.

“GP3 will serve as a pivotal growth catalyst for GoPro, enabling us to lead in our existing core and gain meaningful share in new professional product categories.”

While the company hasn’t detailed what those categories might be, earlier hints from executives suggest GP3 could anchor cameras designed not just for action sports but also for vlogging, creator workflows and higher-end compact video formats.

If that proves accurate, the move would position GoPro closer to devices like creator-focused compact cameras and vlogging rigs, rather than competing solely with other action cam brands.

A broader ecosystem strategy

The company has already begun experimenting with partnerships outside its traditional product lineup.

Earlier this year, GoPro collaborated with ASUS on a GoPro-branded laptop, highlighting a willingness to extend its brand and technology beyond standalone cameras.

At the same time, the company is exploring new revenue streams tied to its software and cloud ecosystem.

GoPro revealed during the call that more than 500,000 hours of user-generated video have already been submitted to its AI training programme, which licenses footage to AI companies to help train computer-vision models.

Seemingly, the company appears to be positioning the new chip as the foundation for a broader push into new hardware categories and imaging workflows.

With the first GP3-powered cameras expected to arrive in the second quarter of 2026, the coming months should reveal exactly how far GoPro intends to expand beyond its action camera roots.

GoPro has just revealed its most advanced custom imaging processor yet, the new GP3 chip, setting the stage for its next generation of action cams, vlogging gear and even compact cinema-grade cameras.

The GP3 is a 5-nanometer System-on-a-Chip (SoC) designed entirely in-house and promises more than twice the pixel-processing power of GoPro’s existing GP2 chip.

The GP2 was launched in 2011, with the GoPro Hero 10 Black being the first camera to use the processor.

Since then, it's been utilised in every camera the brand has launched, including the flagship Hero 13 Black and the latest GoPro MAX 2.

A serious silicon upgrade

According to the brand, the new chip will deliver noticeably improved image quality, low-light performance, higher resolutions and faster frame rates, all while offering best-in-class energy efficiency and thermal management for longer runtimes.

The GP3 houses a dedicated AI Neural Processor Unit (NPU) and specialised cores for scene recognition and subject detection, enabling GoPro cameras to intelligently adapt settings in real time.

This kind of on-device AI has traditionally been found in flagship smartphones and high-end mirrorless cameras, and now it’s coming to GoPro’s compact systems.

GoPro says the GP3 will debut in “new GoPro cameras” launching in Q2 2026, though specific models haven’t been announced yet.

Rumours and early hints from company executives suggest the chip will anchor cameras not just for traditional action use but also for vlogging and ultra-premium compact cinema formats, broadening GoPro’s appeal beyond its core sports audience.

The company has been undergoing significant changes, investing heavily to diversify its product portfolio and respond to growing pressure from rivals such as DJI and Insta360.

This next-gen silicon could help GoPro better compete with both dedicated imaging rivals and high-end smartphone video features that have eaten into the action camera market in recent years.

How much can GoPro's new products, powered by the GP3 chip, change the current status quo? We'll find out later this year.

[via PR Newswire]

Normally, I would recommend something like the dinky Hero or the new Lit Hero as an affordable GoPro. However, on Black Friday (which is today, in case you were wondering), I would advise getting the HERO 13 Black Extended Power Bundle, which is 47% (!) off at Amazon right now.

Shop all action camera deals in Amazon's Black Friday sale

This bundle deal includes one of the best action cameras around, as well as the brand's Dual Battery Charger, three Enduro Batteries, a Curved Adhesive Mount, a 64GB SanDisk MicroSD Card, a Mounting Buckle and Thumb Screw, two USB-C Cables and a Camera Case that's big enough to house all of the above.

The HERO 13 Black is GoPro’s most advanced action camera yet, built around an upgraded 1/1.9-inch sensor that delivers sharper 27MP stills and exceptionally clean video in difficult lighting.

It shoots up to 5.3K at 60fps, with 4K at 120fps and high-frame-rate 240fps modes for silky slow-motion. GoPro has also expanded its colour capabilities, adding 10-bit recording and HLG-HDR, which gives footage richer dynamic range and more flexibility when editing.

Stabilisation takes another leap forward with HyperSmooth 6.0 and AutoBoost, keeping footage steady on technical trails or fast descents. You also get enhanced horizon locking, which maintains a level shot even if the camera rotates significantly.

The camera itself is compact and rugged at 159g, with GoPro’s familiar dual-screen setup: a bright 2.27-inch rear touchscreen and a 1.4-inch front display for framing vlogs and selfies.

Other highlights include upgraded microphones for clearer audio, improved low-light performance, and full waterproofing to 10 metres without a case.

The HERO 13 Black’s extended shooting modes, from TimeWarp and Night Effects to high-speed motion capture, make it an incredibly versatile tool for creators.

With nearly half off in this bundle, you’re getting one of the most capable action cameras available today at a rarely-seen price.

Black Friday has unleashed a wave of action camera deals this year, and 2025’s lineup is especially strong. Discounts on GoPro, Insta360 and DJI aren’t unusual, but this time it feels like the entire industry joined in, with price cuts across nearly every major model.

Highlights include £110 off Insta360’s flagship X5, £130 off the 4K-ready GO 3S, £100 off the new GoPro MAX 2, £100 off the DJI Osmo Pocket 3, and £120 off the Osmo Action 4 Essential Combo. Plenty of other cameras have dropped in price, making this one of the best years to upgrade your kit.

Best Black Friday action camera sales

• Amazon: huge discounts on DJI, Insta360 and GoPro
• Currys: action camera offers from all top brands
• Argos: low prices on all major brands
• Insta360: up to 31% off X5, Go 3S, and more
• GoPro: big savings on Hero 13 Black, MAX 2, Lit Hero and more
• DJI: up to 51% off Action 5 Pro, OSMO 360, and more
• Akaso: up to 50% off affordable action cameras
• Kandao: over £100 off QooCam 3 Ultra and more

Best Insta360 deals

Best GoPro deals

Best DJI deals

Other deals

When is Black Friday happening in 2025?

Black Friday 2025 falls on 28 November, but UK retailers never wait that long, as the country doesn't celebrate Thanksgiving. Most major stores roll out early offers from mid-November, with discounts building steadily as the big day approaches. By the final week, the sales are usually in full swing, covering everything from action cameras to accessories and creator kits.

The deals typically run through the weekend and into Cyber Monday, giving shoppers a long window to pick up tech at record-low prices. For anyone hunting for action camera bargains, this is the prime period to catch rare discounts on the biggest names in the category.

Which action cameras should you buy in the Black Friday sale?

When choosing an action camera during the Black Friday rush, it’s smart to match your pick to how and where you’ll shoot. For top-tier quality and creative flexibility, go for the GoPro HERO13 Black, as it delivers 5.3K video, excellent stabilization and works with swappable lens modules.

For shooting in tougher conditions, especially low light or underwater, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Combo stands out with a larger sensor and four-hour runtime.

On a tighter budget? Then the DJI Osmo Action 4 Combo is a smart value buy. For 360-degree or ultra-creative clips, the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 offers 8K capture and flexible mounting options.

And if cost is the main concern, the AKASO EK7000 4K gives solid 4K footage at a fraction of the price.

With all five models often appearing in Black Friday deals, it’s worth deciding your priorities now (e.g. resolution, durability, mount ecosystem or price), so you’re ready to check out when the sale starts.

Ulanzi built its reputation by making the accessories, such as the cages, mounts, tripods and lights, that creators bolt onto their DJI, GoPro and Insta360.

Now the brand is stepping directly into one of the most competitive creator categories, wireless audio, with its new A200 Mini Mic, which feels deliberately engineered to shake up the entry-level market, alongside models like the DJI Mic Mini and the Rode VideoMic GO II.

The A200 is a tiny, 6-gram transmitter designed for phones, action cameras and everyday creators who want better audio without carrying bulky gear.

Despite its size, the spec sheet reads like something far more expensive: a 48kHz/24-bit sampling rate, 120dB max SPL for distortion-free loud environments, >75dB signal-to-noise ratio and a THD+N figure under 0.05%.

Inside sits a DSP audio chip paired with a triple-line electret condenser design, giving the A200 surprising sensitivity, dynamic range and resistance to interference.

Compact, creator-friendly, and clearly positioned as a DJI alternative

Both the 6g transmitter and 3.6g receiver charge in a compact 39.6g case – smaller than the Apple AirPods Pro 3 case – which stores a 360mAh battery capable of fully recharging the transmitters 1.5 times.

Expect around six hours of recording per transmitter, or roughly 30 hours total with the case.

Transmission happens over 2.4GHz with 13dBm of RF power, delivering a stable range of up to 100 metres in open environments and around 50 metres when obstructed.

Latency is kept under 24ms, which is perfectly acceptable for mobile vlogging, interviews or livestreaming.

A disruptive bit of kit for beginners and pros alike

The A200’s biggest appeal is its simplicity. Plug in the receiver, clip on the mic, and you’re recording with noise reduction active by default.

It works with Android phones, iPhones with USB-C, computers and select action cameras, so it slots neatly into the existing ecosystems creators already use, including DJI Osmo Action, Pocket and GoPro setups.

With a starting price of $39.99 during launch and $49.99 afterwards, the A200 feels purpose-built for creators who want clean audio but don’t want to spend hundreds on a flagship system.

The A200 is available now at Ulanzi.

The GoPro MAX 2 is finally at a price that makes sense! With £100 knocked off for Black Friday, GoPro’s newest 360° action camera becomes a genuinely tempting buy, especially if you want future-proof footage and the kind of creative flexibility you just can’t get from a standard action cam.

Shop GoPro's Black Friday sale

The MAX 2 is built around true 8K 360° video capture. That means full-resolution, fully immersive 360° clips rather than upscaled footage, giving you more detail and more room to play when reframing your shots afterwards.

The MAX 2 is built around true 8K 360° video capture, which means full-resolution, fully immersive 360° clips rather than upscaled footage, giving you more detail and more room to play when reframing your shots afterwards.

You also get 5.6K at 60fps for smoother action and 4K at 100fps for slow motion. For traditional single-lens shooting, the MAX 2 delivers crisp 4K/60 footage with a super-wide field of view, so you can still use it like a regular GoPro. Still photos get a huge bump too, with 29-megapixel 360° images offering massive cropping potential.

GoPro also redesigned the camera with replaceable protective lenses, a huge win for anyone who’s scratched a dome on a mountain bike ride or trail run. Pop the old one off, put a new one on, and you’re good to go. The body is tough, waterproof to 5 metres and built to take the kind of hits a 360° camera inevitably will.

Stabilisation is some of the best GoPro has ever offered. Max HyperSmooth keeps footage silky even when you’re moving fast, and Horizon Lock holds the frame perfectly level, no matter how much the camera tilts.

But the real magic happens after filming. You can capture everything in 360°, then reframe in the GoPro app: choose your angle later, turn a single shot into multiple social-ready clips, or add effects like Tiny Planet. It’s essentially multiple cameras in one!

The dust hasn’t even settled on the DJI Neo 2 launch, but the brand is back with another huge release: the successor of the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro, which was released in September 2024. Despite the comparatively short gap between the two, the Osmo Action 6 includes a ton of exciting updates, including variable aperture, a first in action cams.

I don’t want to get ahead of myself, but it’s safe to say that the Action 6 is one of the best action cameras right now. I really enjoyed using its predecessor, and the new model is better in almost every way (apart from the battery life, which was impressive to begin with).

DJI took a leaf out of GoPro’s design book and introduced two new lens attachments – Marco Lens and FOV Boost Lens – aiming the Action 6 squarely at professional creators. It can do so because the brand-new DJI Nano offers an option for beginners, allowing the company to move the Action Series up a notch in terms of performance and features.

The variable aperture is quite a technical feat, but don’t expect footage to look like it was shot on a Fujifilm camera. The wider f/2.0 aperture lets in lots of light, which makes night shots look less fuzzy, but the depth of field isn’t on par with larger cameras, purely because of the difference in sensor and optical unit size – just trying to manage expectations here.

The Osmo Action 6 is an impressive piece of technology, and there is a lot to unpack here, so let’s get right to it!

DJI Osmo Action 6 review

Price and availability

The DJI Osmo Action 6 launched on 18 November 2025 at £329 for the Standard Combo and £415 for the Adventure Combo, and both configurations are available immediately through DJI and general retail channels. This keeps the camera firmly in the mid-to-upper price bracket for action cameras, but still below the highest flagship pricing seen elsewhere.

At present, the Osmo Action 5 Pro tends to retail for around £265 in the UK for the Standard Combo, reflecting the typical price drop that follows a new-generation launch. This places the older model noticeably below the Osmo Action 6, making it a more affordable option for buyers who do not need the latest features (while stocks last, of course).

In comparison, the GoPro Hero 13 Black currently sells for roughly £270 in the UK, depending on retailer promotions. This makes GoPro’s latest model slightly cheaper than the Osmo Action 6 at its launch RRP. Meanwhile, the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 sits higher than both at around £300, keeping it positioned as one of the more premium-priced alternatives on the market.

Design and build quality

DJI has refined the Osmo Action 6 into a sturdier, more technically ambitious camera while keeping the footprint familiar. The new model measures 72.8 × 47.2 × 33.1 mm and weighs 149 g, making it slightly heavier than the Action 5 Pro’s 145 g.

Much of this is due to the re-engineered lens housing, which now supports a variable aperture mechanism and a new family of interchangeable front lenses. The camera’s optical assembly has been redesigned from the ground up to accommodate these features, resulting in a denser, more robust front section than its predecessor.

The interchangeable lens system represents one of the biggest physical changes to the Action series to date. DJI now offers a Macro Lens that reduces the minimum focus distance to around 20 centimetres.

The Macro Lens has a manual focus ring, which is a nice touch. However, there is no focus peaking on the Action 6 (yet), making it tricky to tell where the focus is using the action cam's small displays. The GoPro Hero 13 Black offers this feature, and I’m sure DJI will introduce it later via a software update. For now, though, you just have to hope that the focus is where you want it to be.

The other new add-on is the FOV Boost Lens, which expands the native field of view from 155° to 182°. Just like the Macro Lens, it can be switched without a tool. For comparison, the Hero 13 Black with the Max Lens Mod 2.0 delivers a maximum FOV of 177°, while Insta360’s Ace Pro 2 offers a maximum FOV of 157° with its standard lens.

The reinforced optical mount allows the variable aperture to operate reliably while maintaining airtight sealing for underwater use. This is especially important given the camera’s ability to withstand depths of up to 20 metres without a case.

The main body retains DJI’s familiar rectangular profile, but it feels more solid and better sealed. The waterproofing is supported by improved internal pressure-gauge integration for more accurate underwater depth and duration data.

The Action 6 is also cold-resistant down to –20°C (–4°F), and the strengthened chassis helps protect the new square 1/1.1-inch sensor inside, offering up to 13.5 stops of dynamic range. The dual touchscreens remain, but the rear display isn't flippable like the Insta360 Ace Pro 2.

A significant physical improvement comes from the updated magnetic mounting system. The Action 5 Pro could only be attached to DJI’s quick-release mount in a single orientation, limiting how quickly you could reposition the camera.

The Action 6 now supports both forward and rearward installation, allowing you to flip the camera’s direction without changing mounts. This small mechanical change has a big impact on practical shooting, especially for activities like cycling and skiing, where rapid repositioning matters.

Features and video performance

The Osmo Action 6 represents DJI’s most ambitious leap in image performance, driven primarily by the introduction of a variable aperture, which fundamentally changes how an action camera behaves in challenging lighting. This new system allows the camera to switch between f/2.0 and f/4.0 depending on the scene, giving it far greater control over light intake and depth of field.

At its widest setting, f/2.0 doubles the incoming light compared with the Action 5 Pro, which immediately boosts low-light capability, reduces noise and allows the shutter to remain steady enough to maintain stabilisation.

The DJI Osmo 360 has exceptional low-light capabilities, and the Osmo Action 6 inherited the ‘Supernight’ mode, which essentially turns night scenes into daylight. This works even better with the wider aperture, which lets in a ton of light.

The aperture also adapts dynamically. For vlog-style recording, the camera can tighten the aperture (up to f4.0) to keep the subject in focus at close range, further enhanced by the redesigned optical assembly that reduces the minimum focus distance to 20 centimetres at the aperture.

It’s hard not to talk a little bit about physics to understand what the different focal lengths mean. DJI says that in the case of its previous-generation action camera, which has a 1/1.3-inch sensor and an f/2.28 aperture, the design had already reached the physical limits of what was possible while maintaining an all-purpose depth-of-field control.

To achieve a larger aperture and maintain the relatively short focusing distance, the brand had to increase sensor size – otherwise, with the larger aperture, the focusing distance would have gone through the roof.

Dynamic switching allows the Action 6 to be the best of both worlds: let in more light in low-light conditions while retaining the relatively short minimum focusing distance in selfie mode, which is increasingly important in the age of social media and vlogging.

When switched to f/4.0, the camera can produce a ‘starburst’ effect around point light sources, thanks to the aperture blades. It’s not quite the smooth bokeh you get when you use a mirrorless camera or a DSLR, but it opens up more creative avenues, especially in low-light scenarios.

The larger square sensor enables 4K-by-4K recording, letting you shoot once and extract both landscape and portrait videos without sacrificing sharpness or field of view. The format also reduces cropping when using HorizonSteady and other stabilisation features, making high-motion footage look cleaner and more cinematic.

Slow-motion performance has also improved. The camera supports 4K/120fps recording and can generate extremely smooth 1080p super slow motion by intelligently interpolating frames. Additional features such as subject tracking, 2x lossless zoom, and natural-wide FOV processing round out the camera’s creative toolkit.

Battery life and charging

Despite introducing a variable-aperture system, a larger 1/1.1-inch square sensor, and a redesigned optical assembly, DJI has maintained battery endurance that rivals or exceeds that of competing models. Officially, the Osmo Action 6 achieves up to four hours of runtime under controlled conditions (1080p@24fps (16:9) video with RockSteady on).

The camera uses the same battery platform as the Action series, which keeps things simple for existing DJI users who already own multiple batteries. Retaining cross-compatibility here is a strategic benefit, especially for creators who rely on a collection of spares for long shooting sessions.

The new model’s runtime is particularly impressive considering the larger sensor and new processing demands; low-light performance improvements, 4K-by-4K recording and advanced stabilisation typically draw more power, yet DJI has managed to keep the battery endurance stable through the efficiency gains of its internal architecture.

The Action 6 can reach approximately 80 per cent charge in around 22 minutes using fast charging, which makes topping up between sessions far easier. The fast-charge rate means the camera can be revived quickly during transitions, allowing you to continue recording without worrying about long recharge times.

The Multifunctional Battery Case is included with the Adventure Combo and can further speed up charging. Like before, this accessory allows users to charge multiple batteries simultaneously and safely store them in cold environments where battery performance often suffers.

Verdict

The Osmo Action 6 feels like the moment DJI’s action-camera ambitions finally click into place. The variable aperture is the headline feature, and while it doesn’t magically turn an action camera into a mirrorless rig, it delivers genuinely useful gains in low-light performance and creative flexibility. Paired with the new square sensor, 4K-by-4K recording and improved minimum focusing distance, the Action 6 produces footage that looks cleaner and more adaptable than anything the series has offered so far.

The addition of interchangeable front lenses pushes the camera closer to a professional tool, and the redesigned mounting system and reinforced housing give the whole unit a more robust, polished feel. Battery life remains strong despite the increased processing demands, and fast charging makes it easy to keep the camera rolling during busy shoot days.

It’s not perfect. The lack of focus peaking holds back the Macro Lens accessory, and some creators may still lean toward GoPro for its mature accessory ecosystem. But as a complete package, the Osmo Action 6 is an outstanding step forward. DJI has built a camera that’s not just incrementally better than the Action 5 Pro, but meaningfully more capable, versatile and fun to use. This is one of the best action cameras you can buy right now.

GoPro’s third-quarter earnings call might have been light on profit, but it was heavy on promise.

Founder and CEO Nicholas Woodman described 2026 as “the year of GP3,” the long-awaited successor to GoPro’s GP2 chip (which came out in 2021), signalling what could be the brand’s most important technology leap in half a decade.

Speaking to investors, Woodman confirmed the new GP3 processor will debut next year across several new action cameras, marking “the debut of our line of GP3-based processors that’ll take GoPro and the industry to the next level of performance.”

CFO and COO Brian McGee called it a “market-leading” system-on-chip that will underpin GoPro’s next generation of imaging products, hinting at improved computational photography and on-device AI features.

“What we’re able to do with that from an imaging and innovation perspective is another area where we’re leading,” he said.

A strategic pause before the storm

If 2025 felt quiet, that was by design. GoPro didn’t release a new flagship HERO camera this year, a deliberate move that Woodman called “strategic in preparation for 2026 launches.”

The CEO explained that patience now would deliver “a significant upside in 2026,” describing the decision as a necessary breather before a wave of product diversification hits next year.

“We’ve got something special planned,” he told investors. “We appreciate market patience, and we think that this decision is going to significantly help us grow units, revenue, and profits in the first half of 2026. Pleasure delayed.”

More cameras, not fewer

The company is preparing to expand its range beyond a single “do-it-all” camera. “Traditionally, the Hero [see also: GoPro HERO 13 Black review] camera was a bit of a Swiss Army knife that did it all for everybody,” Woodman said.

“That was terrific for a time, but as consumer and professional demands have grown, we’ve seen the end customer want multiple tools, multiple cameras that help them achieve more specific capture scenarios.”

That shift will shape GoPro’s 2026 roadmap. The brand plans to introduce several new models across distinct categories, from next-gen flagships to 360 and lifestyle cameras, with new launches “steadily throughout the year,” rather than clustered around the holiday season.

McGee added that the company expects to grow revenue and units every quarter in 2026, forecasting adjusted EBITDA above $40 million as tariffs and costs stabilise.

A glimpse beyond action cameras

GoPro’s diversification push also extends outside the camera category. Its collaboration with AGV on tech-enabled motorcycle helmets remains underway, with Woodman describing it as part of the company’s “next wave of TAM expansion.”

Combined with the launch of the GoPro MAX 2, LIT HERO, and Fluid Pro AI Gimbal, this marks a significant broadening of GoPro’s hardware ambitions.

At the same time, its AI content-licensing initiative is gaining traction, with subscribers uploading over 270,000 hours of footage to train GoPro’s video models.

“We’re in discussion with several AI data licensees to address their demand for authentic real-world video content,” Woodman said, describing the program as a “meaningful opportunity over time for both our subscribers and GoPro.”

A comeback narrative in the making

For a company that’s spent the past few years shrinking to survive, the message from Woodman and McGee was clear: 2026 is the comeback year.

“We expect to build on this momentum in 2026 with the launch of several new, innovative, and differentiated products and services that we believe will lead to consistent quarterly camera unit and revenue growth,” Woodman said. “2026 will be the year of GP3.”

If it all goes to plan, next year could see GoPro shift from retrenchment to reinvention, finally giving its long-time fans a reason to upgrade again.

GoPro is known for crafting some of the best action cameras on the market, but if the newer models have felt a little out of reach, now’s your moment. Argos has dropped the price on one of the best budget-friendly options for first-time buyers – the GoPro HERO – making it easier than ever to capture your adventures without stretching your wallet.

Released last September, the HERO is a solid action cam for capturing your adventure footage; it can record in 4K at 30 fps and snap clear 12 megapixel images. Its compact size – it weighs 86 grams – means you can easily slip it in your bag, and thanks to its 75-minute recording time, you'll never miss a moment.

Being one of the cheaper GoPros, of course something’s got to give. It doesn’t have swappable lenses or onboard stabilisation (although the latter can be done on the app though), the battery isn’t replaceable, and there’s no front display. That being said, its friendly interface, brilliant battery life and voice command support, it’s ideal for those preferring simplicity and affordability.

I was lucky enough to get my hands on the new GoPro MAX 2, the brand's updated 360-degree camera, ahead of the launch. The MAX 2 is a competent camera, and GoPro claims it's the most 8K action camera of all 8K cams out there.

That said, it retails for quite a hefty price, which I suppose makes sense, given the amount of tech the company packed into the small body of the MAX 2.

After all, it's the first 8K camera from GoPro, and seemingly, the brand was keen on putting its best foot forward with it by including every feature the design and creative teams could think of.

I was pumped to try the MAX 2. I'm a big fan of Insta360's cameras, as they allow for some very creative content creation. Plus, you can shoot one video and edit it into 16:9 and 9:16 videos, saving a ton of resources in the process.

During the briefing, the brand representatives casually mentioned that, in addition to the MAX 2, GoPro will also launch two new products: the Fluid Pro AI gimbal and the successor to last year's GoPro Hero.

When lights steal the show

Called Lit Hero, the little action cam introduces a feature that I believe will be a game-changer for many content creators: forward-facing LED lights. Not only that, but the light also features three intensity settings that you can control via a conveniently placed physical button.

Why would a light be more important than, let's say, resolution? Because content creation in 2025 is increasingly about the person, not their surroundings.

Sure, extreme sports will always look cool on the MAX 2 or the GoPro HERO 13 Black, but most creators will vlog instead of riding down a mountain in their underwear on a pair of skies.

The Lit Hero can not only record videos in 4K @ 60fps – more than enough for social media – but it can also quite literally fit in your pocket, making it a lot less intimidating than its larger siblings.

Back to the noughties

Better still, the LED light lends a sort of naughties vibe to the footage, which is very popular right now. The light is sharp, creating somewhat overexposed videos and photos, which people love.

And let's not forget that the price is a lot friendlier than most flagship cameras, lowering the barrier for creators to join in on the fun. If I were a budding videographer keen on creating videos for social media, the Lit Hero's price would be something I could seriously consider, as opposed to splashing the cash on the HERO 13 Black (although there are some good deals available).

With Black Friday/ Christmas season just upon us, it will be interesting to see how Lit Hero sales will perform. I'm sure everyone will be busy hunting for MAX 2 deals, but I'll be keeping an eye out for the dinky GoPro instead.

The Lit Hero is available to pre-order now at GoPro US, GoPro UK and GoPro AU for the recommended retail price of $269.99/ £239.99/ AU$419.95.

GoPro hasn’t slowed down in 2025. The brand relaunched its MAX action camera earlier this year, gave the HERO 13 Black a colourful refresh, and kept fans guessing about what might land in September (its usual launch window).

Among the rumours swirling was the MAX 2, teased heavily across GoPro’s own channels, complete with talk of replaceable lens covers and design tweaks.

When the chance came to test the GoPro MAX 2 ahead of launch, I jumped at it. After a week of shooting, swapping lenses, and even pushing the battery to its limits, I can say this: it’s not the revolutionary 360 action camera some expected, but it is a seriously refined one – and in some ways, GoPro’s most ambitious camera yet.

Unicorns and heavy crowns

The GoPro MAX 2 resembles the lovechild of the original MAX and the GoPro Hero, the “nugget-sized” model the company introduced last year. The MAX 2 has a stocky shape, compared to the Insta360 X5. According to Pablo Lema, GoPro’s Senior VP of Product (whom I interviewed last year), they designed the MAX 2 to be less tubular to avoid people “looking like a unicorn” when worn on the head.

As he puts it, “As 360 cameras get into more athletes’ hands, being low-profile and out of the way becomes increasingly important.” Interestingly, the camera has become heavier since the last time (195g vs 158.9g) and thicker (48.7mm vs 39.7mm), likely due to the larger battery (1,960mAh vs 1,600mAh) and other factors.

I really don’t have a massive preference regarding 360 action camera shape. The longer/slimmer variety makes sense for selfie sticks, but equally, the MAX 2 weighs pretty much exactly the same as the X5, so the shape of the camera doesn’t make much of a difference.

Twist, mount, repeat

The same goes for the shape and orientation of the display: the MAX 2’s horizontal screen works just as fine as the X5’s vertical approach. As long as the shape doesn’t affect stitching, I couldn’t care less.

One thing that has also increased in size is the touchscreen display, which has expanded from 1.69" to 1.82" and now occupies more than half of the rear of the MAX 2. I would say it makes it easier to frame yourself, but you really don’t have to frame anything with a 360 camera, as it captures everything around it, allowing you to reframe footage in post.

The MAX 2 now features interchangeable lenses that can be easily replaced without the need for any tools. While the Insta360 X5 also has this feature, it’s quite challenging to remove its lenses without tools; the rubber rings around MAX 2’s lenses make it easy to grab and twist them.

Plus, a small icon on the side of the ring helps you determine if the lens is fully locked in or not – small details like this make GoPros so popular. The only slight caveat I found is that fully tightening the lens requires some squeezing, but it’s still a hundred times easier than anything I experienced before. Not to mention, the low-light champion DJI OSMO 360 doesn’t have this feature at all, so there is that.

Another physical update is the mounting. GoPro applied the same triple-mount approach they rolled out last year, allowing you to use the MAX 2 with a variety of accessories. The threaded mount is great for selfie-stick action, but if you prefer to have the camera affixed to your helmet, you can also use the finger or magnetic mounts.

Pixels and promises

The front of the MAX 2 features the same ridged design as last year’s Hero to enhance heat dissipation. Finally, the MAX 2’s sound performance has been greatly improved, thanks to the six-microphone setup. Better still, the camera can not only capture sound all around it, but it also has better directional focus in certain modes (e.g. POV).

We expected the MAX 2 to improve image quality over its predecessor, and it’s exactly what happened. The MAX 2 can shoot 360-degree footage in 8K, and the brand claims its 8K resolution is superior to that of other companies. GoPro produced a white paper to explain this, saying that other brands take non-useable pixels into account when calculating resolution.

In practice, this doesn’t really make a difference on a day-to-day basis. Sure, the MAX 2 probably has the most usable pixels, but 360 action cams are not the pros’s top choice, and therefore, I don’t think many will care enough about the extra pixels. That said, GoPro claims the MAX 2 has 16-21% more resolution than the competition, which is quite a significant upgrade.

There is one area where this is obvious, which is when you freeze the frame in the Quik app. In my experience, it felt like I could grab any frame from a 30 fps video and use it as a photo. The frames feel less gimmicky, and the colours and lines more defined – one of the best things about using a GoPro.

Colour and motion

The brand also added 10-bit colour (the MAX could “only” do 8 bits), which increases the colour palette and provides smoother gradients. The MAX 2 is also capable of GP-Log encoding with GoPro LUTs, allowing you to seamlessly integrate the footage into your professional workflow.

The bitrate has increased to 100 Mbps (from 78 Mbps) or 300 Mbps using GoPro Labs. A higher bitrate means finer detail, texture, and motion information, although it increases file size. Combined with the deeper colours and larger resolution, it’s easy to see why the MAX 2 produces such sharp videos.

Another feature people love about GoPros is slow motion, and the MAX 2 delivers on this front, too. You can achieve up to 3x slow motion (100 fps played back at 30 or 25 fps) while maintaining 4K resolution across the full 360° sphere, or 2x slow motion in 5.6K resolution. I haven't tested this feature yet, but it sounds promising!

The MAX 2 offers two modes that make it easier to shoot specific types of content. In POV mode, you get a front-facing 180° POV angle, with the best stabilisation settings. Playback is ready to export as a traditional flat video, with minimal or no video editing necessary. Selfie mode is best used for those classic selfie stick shots. Both modes capture the full 360 scene.

As mentioned above, the MAX 2 has a much larger battery than the MAX, which it needs as 8K videos eat battery for breakfast. An approx. 50-minute timelapse video in 8k resolution essentially halved the battery (with GPS on). Shooting shorter bursts of footage – even in 8K – prevents the MAX 2 from overheating, significantly improving battery life. Although there is no fast charging function, the battery is removable, allowing you to swap it out if necessary and continue shooting.

Themes with limits

All footage is edited in the Quik app, which I must say isn’t quite as user-friendly as Insta360’s when it comes to 360-degree footage, but it’s decent. There are multiple ways to review and edit your videos, including using keyframes and pointing your smartphone in the direction you want your video to face (also known as MotionFrame).

There is, of course, “Themes” that lets you edit footage automatically, but some of the functionality is paywalled behind the Premium and Premium+ subscriptions. Additionally, the themes in Themes are somewhat random, unlike Insta360’s version, where you generally know what to expect (perhaps it’s just a communication issue).

The price of ambition

The more I looked into the GoPro MAX 2, the more I liked it. It’s not a revolutionary action camera, but it’s a great 360 action cam. Where it really shines is image quality: those 8K videos with 10-bit colour and 100 Mbps bitrate look crisp and well-balanced. I expected nothing less from the brand, but it’s nice to see the MAX 2 delivers.

As for the price, the MAX 2 sells for slightly less than the Insta360 X6 and significantly more than the DJI OSMO 360. $499.99 is a flagship price and a whopping $100 more than the recommended price of the HERO 13 Black – that’s quite a statement from GoPro. It’s clear the brand is targeting Insta360 with the price.

Too ambitious? Maybe, but GoPro also like to drop the price of cameras not long after they were launched, so that it might be a strategy here, too. One thing is sure: the MAX 2 is an action camera that pushes you out of your comfort zone by pushing itself to its limits. And I’m totally here for it.

The MAX 2 is now available for preorder from GoPro at the recommended retail price of $499.99. It'll start shipping on 20 September 2025.

GoPro, the brand that made action cameras cool, has been going through a bit of a rough patch, but it seems like the company has a plan to move beyond its current woes.

Speaking at the Oppenheimer 28th Annual Technology, Internet & Communications Conference, GoPro CEO Nicholas Woodman and CFO Brian McGee revealed the brand’s bold plans to expand into new product categories, introduce new software subscriptions, and even help users monetise their footage for AI model training.

The big picture? GoPro wants to shift from building "toys" to making "tools", high-utility, subscription-connected devices for everyone from weekend adventurers to professional creators.

Beyond the action cam

GoPro's CEO says the company currently leads the U.S. action camera market with around 3 million units sold globally per year.

But that’s just a slice of what Woodman sees as a 7-million-unit opportunity that also includes 360 cameras and low-light prosumer gear, the latter being a completely new category for GoPro, launching in 2026.

Meanwhile, the company is re-entering the 360 cam space with Max 2, due later this year, following a successful MAX reboot that is said to have reclaimed 10% market share.

But perhaps the most unexpected move? GoPro is working with high-end helmet brand AGV to create tech-enabled motorcycle helmets with built-in imaging and communication tools.

Why? It's supposedly a $3 billion global market that GoPro sees as ripe for disruption.

Your footage could be worth money

GoPro also confirmed it’s launching a program that lets subscribers opt in to license their cloud-stored footage for AI training models.

Big tech firms came knocking, and GoPro’s 13 million hours of video content are in demand.

Users who join the scheme will earn 50% of the licensing revenue, a novel monetisation play for action cam footage.

GoPro’s strategy is now built around the trio of hardware, software, and subscription.

Its $50/year GoPro Premium subscription includes unlimited cloud backup (for GoPro footage), editing tools, and app features, and, according to Woodman, it's performing well.

The company has boosted attach rates (i.e., camera buyers who also purchase a GoPro subscription) from the low 40s to 56%, and retention sits at ~80% by year four.

Starting in 2026, GoPro will also launch software subscriptions decoupled from hardware, potentially appealing to current camera owners and professionals in industries like real estate and construction.

Less hype, more depth

As flashy as its cameras might be, GoPro’s real power now lies in diversification and ecosystem stickiness.

With new categories, software tools, and monetisation options on the way, the brand is betting on long-term relevance well beyond its Hero cameras.

The takeaway? If you thought GoPro peaked with extreme sports videos, you might want to look again: the brand’s next chapter could be its most profitable yet.

Had your eye on the GoPro Hero 12 Black but missed the Amazon Prime sale? Good news – it’s still on offer and for a very good price too.

Right now you can snap it up for £243.92, saving you over £150 off its original price tag, which is a pretty large (and rare) saving on such a high-performing action cam.

Although the Hero 12 isn’t the latest model – there’s the Hero 13 too – when we reviewed both cameras the 12 still stood out on top for us, which is why we gave it a five-star review, and takes the spot as the best GoPro.

Whether you’re into water sports, vlogging, or just looking to level up your travel footage, the Hero 12 delivers. It captures crystal clear 5.3K video footage at 60fps and 27MP images, and thanks to the new high dynamic range, shots are delivered with greater detail and vibrant colour.

It also features GoPro’s all-new advanced HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, to ensure steady, smooth content, even in challenging conditions. Plus, with a big battery boost, with 70 minutes of continuous recording at 5.3K @ 60 fps (the highest performance setting), you’ll be able to capture more action without worrying about running out of power.

As we all know, GoPro is top of the game when it comes to action cameras, and now that the Hero 12 has been reduced, there's no better time than the present to snap it up!

If you’ve been looking to get your hands on a great action camera, now’s your chance. This GoPro Hero 13 bundle has just hit its lowest-ever price in the Amazon Prime Day sale, knocking over £100 off its asking price.

For £309, not only do you get the latest GoPro camera, but this bundle also comes with additional accessories, including two enduro batteries and a waterproof shutter remote, so you can shoot content more easily and for longer.

GoPro’s top-tier action camera delivers high-quality 5.3K video at 60 frames per second, capturing crisp detail with exceptional clarity. For fast-paced moments, it also shoots in 4K at 120fps, making it ideal for smooth, dramatic slow-motion shots. Plus, HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilisation ensures your footage stays steady and smooth, even on the roughest adventures. If you want to head underwater, the Hero 13 can also withstand depths up to 10 metres, so you can get some fantastic underwater shots.

We all know GoPro is king of the action cameras but, if you’re new to action videography, which do you go for? The GoPro Hero, released last year, was designed with beginners in mind; it’s affordable, has plenty of user-friendly features, boasts brilliant battery life, and it’s currently only £169 at Amazon.

Despite being a ‘cheaper’ GoPro, the Hero is still an extremely capable action cam for filming footage on your outdoor adventures. It offers solid 4K recording, can capture 12 megapixel stills, and has an easy-to-use interface, making it the best GoPro for beginners (in our humble opinion).

It’s also teeny tiny, weighing only 86g, so it’s easy to transport around so that you can capture action-focused content on the go. In fact, in our GoPro Hero review T3’s Active Editor said that in his hand, “It looks like a toy action camera, something you would give to a toddler to play with”. However, despite being small in size, this action cam delivers a very decent 75 minute battery life (the only downside is that its battery isn’t replaceable like on larger GoPros).

Being cheaper, this model isn’t equipped with some of the more fancy features you'd find on other GoPros, like swappable lenses or onboard stabilisation (the latter can be done on the app though). However, it is an excellent choice for beginners and casual users seeking an affordable, compact, and user-friendly action camera. And, at this price, it’s even better!

Action cameras are for more than just extreme sports. Many creators will use them for all sorts of activities, from cooking to vlogging and beyond. And if you want to own admittedly one of the best action cameras, now is your chance to save £100!

In my GoPro Hero 13 Black review, I called it a "creative dynamo, brimming with new features and accessories that push the boundaries of what an action camera can do." I found it creatively inspiring and generally a nifty gadget to have and to hold. If you haven't got one already, now is the time to get it.

5 reasons to buy the GoPro Hero 13 Black

Interchangeable lens system

For the first time in a GoPro, the Hero 13 Black supports swappable lenses, including Ultra Wide, Macro, and Anamorphic options. This means more creative control over your shots.

Best-in-class video and slow-motion

With 5.3K at 60fps and 4K at 120fps, the Hero 13 Black delivers stunning clarity and smoothness. The new Burst Slo-Mo mode pushes slow motion to an extreme 720p at 400fps, slowing footage by up to 13 times for ultra-dramatic action shots.

Next-gen stabilisation with HyperSmooth 6.0

GoPro’s HyperSmooth 6.0 with AutoBoost ensures buttery-smooth footage, even in high-impact sports. From mountain biking and skiing to skydiving, your shots stay rock-steady without needing a gimbal.

Magnetic mounting system for faster setup

The Hero 13 Black introduces a magnetic quick-mounting system, allowing you to snap the camera into place in seconds. No more fumbling with mounts – this upgrade makes capturing action faster and easier.

Longer battery life with Enduro 2.0

The upgraded 1,900mAh Enduro battery delivers up to 1.5 hours of continuous 5.3K recording, meaning fewer battery swaps and more time capturing epic moments.

For more offers on action cameras, head over to T3's best cheap GoPro deals roundup.

GoPro, one of the best action camera manufacturers, decided to launch its latest action camera with as little fanfare as possible.

It's true that the updated Max isn't a new iteration of the brand's 360-degree camera and only adds a new mounting system, battery and some new features.

The original GoPro Max was launched in 2019, and at the time, we called the Max the "best 360-degree action camera currently available."

Times have changed a lot since then. These days, it's not just GoPro that has 360° cameras – Kandao and, most notably, Insta360 have a slew of devices that compete in this area.

In an interview, GoPro Head of Product Pablo Lema confirmed that the company “is still very committed to 360 cameras," adding that "the Max, which came out in 2019, remains competitive in terms of image quality."

This might be why the new Max has the same resolution as its predecessor (5.6K). It's not quite the 8K resolution of the Insta360 X4, but it's not unusual for the company to not upgrade its cameras resolution

The two physical updates to the camera are the addition of the MAX Enduro Battery and an upgraded mounting system, making it compatible with all standard ¼-20 tripod mounts.

More importantly, GoPro has overhauled its 360 mobile editing experience in the Quik App, introducing AI-powered object tracking to keep subjects in focus automatically, along with keyframing for precise view adjustments.

The update also adds CameraFx for dynamic movements like backflips, seamless automatic transitions between ReFrame Modes, and single-clip edits for fine-tuning colour, volume, and filters.

Finally, a new Frame Grab tool makes pulling high-quality photos from 360 video stills easier than ever, streamlining the entire editing process.

The big question is, will GoPro launch the Max 2 this year? In the same interview, Pablo Lema said, "Our goal with the next iteration [of the Max] is to make a significant leap forward." I suspect we might have to wait a little longer for a completely new model.

The revamped GoPro Max is available now at GoPro US, GoPro UK and GoPro AU for a recommended price of $349.99/ £349.99/ AU$599.95.

Insta360 has officially rolled out Insta360+, its next-generation cloud subscription service, across the United States.

Designed to offer similar functionality to the GoPro Membership but with added 360° camera workflow facilities, Insta360+ offers cloud storage, automatic backups, streamlined sharing, and even on-the-go editing – all starting at just $1.99 per month.

The new service aims to eliminate those barriers with features like automatic file backups as soon as your camera is plugged in to charge over Wi-Fi.

Creators also have the option to auto-delete files from their SD cards once backups are complete, clearing space for their next adventure.

The service includes a cloud editing feature that lets users edit and export files directly from the cloud – no downloading required.

But the service isn’t just about convenience. One of the best action camera manufacturers has gone the extra mile by offering unique perks to subscribers.

Premium plans include a free replacement camera for accidental damage (through Insta360 Care or FlexiCare), extended warranties, and priority shipping on Insta360 Official Store orders.

The caveat? Insta360+ is currently compatible with Insta360 X4 and Insta360 X3 cameras. However, Insta360 is working to expand support for its other models, including the Ace Series, GO Series, and ONE X2.

The subscription service is available in three tiers (Basic, Pro, and Premium), with prices ranging from $1.99 per month (200GB storage) to $9.49 per month (2TB storage). Annual plans start at $17.99, offering creators flexibility and value for money. For more info, visit Insta360 today.

Although there is an enticing Hero 13 Black offer on, I think the best GoPro deal this Cyber Monday is this one. The Hero 12 Black is selling for £289, which is £111 less than the original asking price – a little over a year later of its release!

To help put it in perspective, the Hero 10 Black, which was released two years prior, is selling for £249, only £30 less. The Hero 13 Black, the successor that has more or less the same specs (and interchangeable lens) sells for around £340.

At £289, the Hero 12 Black is probably not only the best GoPro but also one of the best Cyber Monday deals. I would buy one if I didn't already have one. Maybe I get one, anyway, so I can shoot footage in two different angles simultanously...

The GoPro Hero 12 Black can record 5.3K video at 60fps, the same as its successor, the Hero 13 VBlack. Its 27MP photo capability ensures you can snap breathtaking stills, even in fast-paced environments.

What sets the Hero 12 Black apart is its HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilisation, offering unrivalled steadiness for even the most dynamic activities. From skiing and mountain biking to diving, this camera ensures professional-quality footage free from shakes or blurs. It’s waterproof up to 10 meters, making it an excellent choice for underwater photography and rugged adventures.

The front-facing LCD allows for effortless vlogging and framing, while improved battery performance means you can capture longer sessions without interruptions. Unique features like wireless audio support allow pairing with Bluetooth microphones for enhanced audio quality, a rarity among action cameras. Additionally, its compatibility with the GoPro Quik app streamlines editing and sharing.

At a £111 discount, it’s an unbeatable deal for creators seeking unparalleled performance and versatility.

I find it hard to believe that people are still shopping around on Cyber Monday. Sure, the best Cyber Monday deals are commendable, but surely, everyone's all shopped out by now, considering the offers been on for weeks?

Maybe it's just me, who's been looking at sales for well over a month at this point. Anyhow, if you're still looking for action camera deals, cast your eyes on the this Hero 13 Black bundle kit offer that knocks £100 off the already reduced asking price.

For £350, you not only get the latest and greatest GoPro but also a ton of accessories to start shooting straight away, including a memeory card, a floating grip (for safer in-water use), multiple batteries and a carry case.

This flagship action camera records stunning 5.3K video at 60fps, ensuring your footage captures every detail in smooth, ultra-high resolution. It offers 4K at 120fps for high-speed action, perfect for creating cinematic slow-motion videos.

The GoPro HERO 13 Black boasts a rugged, waterproof design that can withstand depths of 10 meters, making it ideal for underwater adventures or harsh conditions.

The camera’s 1.76-inch front LCD screen allows easy framing and on-the-go adjustments, while the intuitive rear touch display makes navigation effortless. Enhanced stabilisation with HyperSmooth 6.0 ensures shake-free, professional-quality footage regardless of terrain.

This Cyber Monday bundle is packed with extras, including two Enduro batteries for extended shooting time, The Handler floating grip for secure handling in water, and a 64GB SanDisk microSD card for ample storage. It also comes with mounting accessories and a compact carrying case, offering everything you need for your adventures.

GoPro announced the tiny HERO alongside the flagship GoPro Hero 13 Black in September 2024. However, it didn’t make it available for me to test at the time, which is why it took me two months to write this review of the little sibling.

I want to clarify that the HERO isn’t a new iteration of the GoPro Hero 11 Mini. Instead, the brand went back to the drawing board to reimagine what an affordable version of the Hero Black series might be.

And, between you and me, GoPro found the right balance with the HERO. Sure, it doesn’t have two displays and can’t shoot at glorious 60 fps, but thanks to its lightweight, compact form factor and easy-to-use interface, it's the best GoPro for beginners.

Is it the best GoPro for your needs, though? How does the HERO compare to the best action cameras, particularly the Insta360 Go 3S? What are the benefits and drawbacks of the dinky, rugged camera? Read my full GoPro HERO review below to learn more.

GoPro HERO review

Price and availability

The GoPro HERO was announced in September 2024 and is available to buy now at GoPro UK, GoPro US and GoPro AU for a recommended price of £199/ $199.99/ AU$349.95. It costs exactly half as much as the Hero 13 Black.

The HERO is available in various accessory bundles, including the Starter Bundle, which includes the Shorty stand, a Bite Mount, and a Camera Case; the Mountain Bike Bundle, which adds seven adhesive mounts, a Bite Mount, a Handlebar / Seatpost / Pole Mount, and a Camera Case; and the Swim + Snorkel Bundle, which includes The Handler, a Bite Mount, and a Camera Case in the box.

Specifications

• Dimensions (mm): 56.6W x 47.7H x 29.4D
• Weight (Camera + Mounting + Battery): 86g
• Rear Display Size: 1.76" Touch LCD
• Front Display Size: N/A
• Water rating: TBC
• Sensor: 1/2.8" CMOS
• Max video resolution: 4K 16:9 @30 fps
• Image stabilisation: HyperSmooth – applied in app
• Max photo resolution: 12MP
• Max screengrab from videos: 8.29MP from 4K 16:9
• Built-in GPS: no
• Battery: Built-in 1,255mAh Enduro battery
• Battery life: TBC
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5 - 2.4GHz, 5GHz; BLE 5.2; USB-C

Design and build quality

The Hero's biggest appeal (apart from the affordable price, of course) is its small form factor. It’s roughly half the size of the Hero 13 Black and weighs only 86g. I can’t emphasise enough how small it is; in my hand, it looks like a toy action camera, something you would give to a toddler to play with.

One big difference between the HERO and its full-size sibling is the battery. The HERO’s battery is built-in and cannot be replaced like in the Hero 13 Black. This means you can swap batteries on the go to expand runtime, and the camera is also susceptible to battery degradation over time.

The other thing you miss out on is the different mounting options big GoPros offer. The HERO only has finger mounts; there are no magnetic mounts of threads here. You’ll be able to attach it to most GoPro accessories, but it takes a bit longer to move it over to a new mount than if it had magnetic connectors.

The HERO only has one screen, a 1.76" Touch LCD at the back. The button layout is the same as on the big Hero—an I/O button on the side and a recording button at the top. The optical unit has a huge lens attached, which overhangs the camera body.

I’m sure there is a reason for this, but it also makes the lens more susceptible to damage. I dropped the camera in the snow during the testing period, and it clearly hit the frozen ground or rock and chipped the edge of the lens. The glass remained unscathed, though!

Features

The GoPro HERO has reduced functionality and resolution compared to the Hero Black line, which is understandable. It can shoot videos in up to 4K resolution at 30 fps in a 16:9 ratio. Slo-mo is limited to 2.7K @ 60/50fps (not quite the 400 burst slo-mo mode of the Hero 13 Black, but it’s something), and there is no timelapse function. Max photo resolution is 12 MP.

One thing to note is that GoPro says the 4:3 aspect ratio in video mode is coming to HERO by the end of the year. This is excellent news, as this mode will make it easy to crop videos in different orientations. For now, you have to physically rotate the camera to shoot videos in a vertical orientation.

Image stabilisation happens in the app, not on camera, meaning you will have to offload the videos to Quik before using them anywhere else (e.g. Adobe Premier Pro). The preview on the HERO isn’t stabilised, either, so if you’re checking the footage on location and worried about the shake, rest assured it will be reduced once you add the videos to Quik.

The HERO does support voice commands. You can start and stop recording, take photos and turn the GoPro off using nothing but your voice. The voice isn’t personalised, so anyone who knows the commands can instruct the camera, not just the owner. Voice command operation can be turned on/off in the menu.

Performance

GoPros generally have intuitive controls, and this is especially true for the HERO. There are only two physical buttons and only a few shooting modes to keep things as fool-proof as possible.

I used the HERO in a few different scenarios. Took it e-biking in Finland, shot some footage in an ice rink and used it to record vlogging-style footage. The camera performed well under these circumstances, and the results were always good – as long as you download them to Quik first so they can be stabilised.

As mentioned above, the HERO hasn’t got on-board stabilisation; the footage gets stabilised in the smartphone app every time you open it in preview. Once you export it from the Quik app, it’ll get permanently stabilised. In most cases, this won’t be an issue. Professionals might find it cumbersome to use multiple apps to get their videos into third-party video editing software, but I’d imagine they opt for the Hero 13 Black, anyway.

The only thing I missed was the 4K@60fps mode. I’m quite used to shooting videos at that frame rate, and it also looks better on social media. 30fps isn’t terrible, of course, but the movement looks less smooth. The lower maximum frame rate helps the camera not overheat, which was one of the biggest issues with the Hero 11 Mini.

Battery life

I was impressed with the GoPro HERO’s battery life. As always, I subjected the dinky camera to a run test on my balcony (i.e. not indoors), expecting it to run out of stamina in less than an hour.

Surprisingly, the HERO kept recording at 4K@30fps until the memory card was full, which was at the 75-minute mark. Better still, the camera wasn’t hot, either, which is impressive considering how small it is.

This is excellent news, as the HERO has a built-in battery, which means you can’t swap out the depleted battery on the fly to keep shooting. Once the battery is drained, it takes about an hour to recharge it at room temperature, which, in my case, is around 16-17 degrees Celsius (60.8-62.6 degrees Farenheit).

Who's the GoPro HERO for?

The GoPro HERO is best suited for beginner content creators and athletes who would like to record their shenanigans but don’t need the customisability of the flagship Hero Black range. Thanks to the small form factor and lower asking price, it’s also an excellent choice for younger users.

Should you buy the GoPro HERO?

The GoPro HERO is an excellent choice for beginners and casual users seeking an affordable, compact, and user-friendly action camera. Its solid 4K recording capabilities, lightweight design, and impressive battery life make it ideal for capturing everyday adventures.

However, for professionals or enthusiasts requiring advanced features like higher frame rates, swappable lenses, or in-camera stabilisation, the HERO may not meet all expectations.

Verdict

The GoPro HERO is an excellent entry point to the GoPro ecosystem. It’s less intimidating than the flagship model and costs less, too. It misses out on a few features that make the Hero 13 Black desirable (e.g. higher frame rates, front display, swappable battery, etc.), but it’s a much better take at a small GoPro than the Hero 11 Mini ever was.

It excels with solid 4K recording capabilities, lightweight build, and a user-friendly interface, while also offering impressive battery life for its size. Voice command support and durability further enhance its appeal. Overall, it’s a great choice for beginners and casual users, prioritising simplicity and value over high-end functionality.

Also consider

DJI Osmo Pocket 2: an excellent alternative for users prioritising cinematic video quality over ruggedness. Unlike the GoPro HERO, it features a built-in gimbal for superior stabilisation and smoother footage but lacks the HERO’s waterproof and durable design, making it less suitable for action-heavy scenarios.

Insta360 GO 3S: This tiny camera is ultra-portable, perfect for quick content creation, and includes innovative 360-degree shooting modes. It lacks the rugged durability of the HERO but excels in versatility for creative shots.

GoPro HERO 11 Mini: While slightly older, the HERO 11 Mini offers 4K recording at 60fps, better stabilisation, and higher durability. It's a pricier option but ideal for users seeking advanced features in a compact package.

Fans of the best GoPros are having the best time this Black Friday. First, the flagship GoPro HERO 13 Black gets its first Black Friday price drop; now, the brand-spanking news HERO also drops to its lowest-ever price just months after its release. Now is the time to shop for action cameras, people!

The GoPro HERO is a beginner-friendly, rugged camera. It can shoot in 4K up to 30fps and has a long battery life (for such a small camera). Weighing only 86g, the HERO fits in your pocket and hand and can be mounted almost everywhere.

The camera has a 1.76-inch rear touch LCD for intuitive controls and focuses on simplicity. While the HERO doesn’t have in-camera stabilisation, it supports HyperSmooth stabilisation via the GoPro Quik app, ensuring smooth footage once videos are processed.

Standout features include voice command support, allowing hands-free operation for taking photos, recording videos, or turning the camera off.

The built-in 1,255mAh battery offers decent runtime, recording 4K footage for up to 75 minutes, though it’s non-removable. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB-C, making it easy to transfer files.

The HERO is a steal at full price, let alone now. At £177, it's practically half the price of the Insta360 GO 3S, the competitor brand's small 4K-capable camera.

If you've been eyeing the GoPro HERO 13 Black, now’s the time to act! Amazon has just dropped the price by 18%, marking the first significant discount since its launch in September, and let me tell you, this is a deal worth jumping on.

I’ve always been a huge fan of the best GoPros, but the HERO 13 Black takes things to another level. Its 5.7K video recording capability is genuinely breathtaking, delivering crisp, lifelike footage that makes your adventures feel cinematic.

From skiing and diving to just capturing everyday moments, the quality of the Hero 13 Black is almost unmatched. Add to that the improved HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilisation, and you’re looking at buttery-smooth footage, no matter how chaotic things get.

What really sets the HERO 13 Black apart, though, is the introduction of different lens mods and AI-assisted tools. Previous GoPros already had interchangeable lenses, but the new camera is built around these to help you unlock your full creative potential.

The AI tools range from automatic scene detection to smart editing suggestions. And let’s not forget its rugged, waterproof design – this camera is built to survive whatever you throw at it.

But here’s the thing: deals like this don’t last long, especially on something as popular as the HERO 13 Black. At 18% off, you’re not just saving money; you’re getting an opportunity to own the best action camera GoPro has ever made at a price that won’t break the bank.

I can confidently say it’s worth every penny, even at full price. With this discount, though, it’s practically a no-brainer. If you’re serious about capturing your adventures or just want to take your content to the next level, this is your chance. Don’t let it slip away!

GoPro launched its latest cameras in early September, which included the tiny HERO, a brand new franchise aimed at less experienced users. I had to wait until now to get my hands on the HERO, and I'm blown away just how cute it is.

The GoPro Hero 13 Black is one of the best action cameras. It has a ton of functions and features that can help elevate your content creation to the next level. It's also well-suited for creative professionals and movie makers (I couldn't help but notice Hero Black cameras being used in the Tour de France: Unchained series).

The dinky HERO has a different approach. It has only a few shooting modes and a compact body that's not only versatile but also less intimidating than the full-size Hero 13 Black. I couldn't help but smile when I first got it out of the box.

It's not the first time the brand launched a reduced-size model. The GoPro Hero 11 Mini was an interesting concept that tried to offer most of the functionality of its larger sibling, the GoPro Hero 11 Black, without cutting too many corners.

GoPro was somewhat pressured to introduce a smaller camera due to the success of competitor models such as the Insta360 Go 3S. People like the simplicity of the Go series' compact form factor, so it made sense to launch a small GoPro.

Sadly, the Hero 11 Mini did suffer from overheating issues, which isn't surprising considering GoPro tried to shove all the functions of the larger version into the little camera. It clearly wasn't the right approach.

So, the brand returned to the drawing board and came up with the concept of the HERO. It's small, for sure, and has limited functionality (compared to the Hero 13 Black) and reduced maximum resolution.

However, it retains what makes GoPros popular: the easy-to-understand menu system, excellent app support, Hypersmooth image stabilisation and rugged build. It's everything a beginner might need. There is no need for broadcasting industry HDR standard HDR setting if you're only shooting content for social media.

I'm yet to take the HERO out into the wild, but I'm super excited about giving it a try. Don't get me wrong; I love using the Hero 13 Black to create content. But the little HERO offers a simple point-and-shoot functionality that can be super handy even if you're the most professional content creator in the world.

Not to mention, it's pretty cheap, as you can see from the prices below.

DJI is reportedly preparing to enter the 360-degree action camera market with its own offering, the rumoured Osmo 360.

DJI has had a bumper year so far, releasing one successful product after another, from the DJI Neo and the DJI Power 500 to the Amflow PL Pro and the recently announced Air 3S.

One of these new releases was the DJI Osmo Action 5, the fifth iteration of the brand’s action camera franchise. One thing that DJI missed from its portfolio is a 360° rugged camera akin to the insta360 X4.

A recent FCC filing sparked speculation about the device, which would put DJI head-to-head with leading competitors like Insta360 and GoPro.

360-degree cameras record footage using two lenses with overlapping fields of view, which are then stitched together to create an uninterrupted 360° view. Not every company that has these types of cameras get it right.

However, DJI could leverage its expertise in drone and action camera tech, bringing features like advanced image stabilisation and smart tracking to the 360-degree world.

This move could further diversify DJI’s portfolio in the growing action camera market.

Though details remain sparse, the Osmo 360 would likely include high-resolution video capabilities and seamless app integration, making it a formidable challenger to the well-established Insta360 X4 and the anticipated GoPro Max 2 (see also here).

DJI's focus on software innovations, such as automatic subject tracking and low-light performance, might also set it apart in the competitive space.

There is a lot we don’t know about the new DJI 360° camera, but considering the expertise of the brand in the field of advanced imagining, we expect the upcoming camera to be a formidable challenger in the field.

We've seen some really good action camera offers on Prime Day, but we had to wait until after the big shopping event to see the best GoPro deal surface. The Hero 10 Black is down to £199, the cheapest ever. It was around £228 a few days ago, but now it's under the £200 threshold.

One of the best GoPro still, the Heo 10 Black has the same maximum resolution as the latest GoPro Hero 13 Black. In our review, we said that "the GoPro HERO 10 Black might be iterative, but it is best." Admittedly, that was a couple of years ago, but the camera still stacks up against the competition, especially at this price point!

The GoPro Hero 10 Black excels with its powerful GP2 processor, enabling smoother performance and faster processing. Key features include 5.3K video recording at 60fps, enhanced 4K slow-motion at 120fps, and 23MP still images.

The upgraded HyperSmooth 4.0 stabilisation offers improved horizon levelling, while the new hydrophobic lens cover reduces water smudging. The responsive touchscreen, quicker wireless transfers, and waterproof design make it versatile for various action settings.

Long story short, it's an awesome camera that can be used for a variety of purposes, from watersports and motorcycling to vlogging and more. Grab one at this price while you can.

You’ve just snagged a shiny new GoPro, or maybe you're eyeing one. Now the question is: Should you dive into their subscription service? GoPro promises a lot with its premium subscriptions, but does it really make your action-packed life easier?

The best GoPros, including the latest GoPro Hero 13 Black, and older models, such as the GoPro Hero 11 Mini, are sought-after action cameras. They have a ton of features to help you express your creative vision, and as of now, none of them are tied to a GoPro Subscription.

This begs the question: do you need one then? Surely, everything you need is already available in the Quik app, whether you’re a free user or a subscriber. While this is true, paid GoPro users enjoy some good benefits, which aren’t for everyone, but those who have and use them can’t live without them.

Would you benefit from the GoPro Subscription, and if so, which subscription model is bets for you? Let’s break it down.

What does the GoPro Subscription even include?

First off, let’s talk GoPro Premium (retailer link). For $49.99/ £49.99/ AU$69.99 per year, you get unlimited cloud storage for all your epic adventures, meaning every wipeout, waterfall, and whirlwind trip can be uploaded to the cloud without taking up any of your precious device storage.

This is huge if you tend to shoot a lot of high-resolution footage, which can quickly eat up local storage. Imagine all that hassle gone – no more juggling SD cards, no more running out of space mid-hike.

It's worth noting here that unlimited storage only applies to GoPro footage and not data in general. Many people used to use GoPro's storage offer as a cheap alternative to paid cloud services in the past (they even used it to store camera footage from other brands), but GoPro cracked down on it recently.

Subscribers also get up to 50% off GoPro accessories and gear. So, if you’re the type who wants to deck out your camera with every possible mount, strap, or extra battery, these discounts can stack up and easily cover the cost of your subscription over the year. From that helmet mount for your next ski trip to an extra battery for extended sessions, it’s like an endless sale on the stuff you’re already buying.

Discounts on accessories started appearing in a different light since GoPro introduced a slew of interchangeable lenses with the Hero 13 Black. Some features are only available when the camera is equipped with these mods, like the croppable Ultra Wide Lens Mod mode.

• Best cheap GoPro deals

Now, let’s talk about damage control. Cameras are prone to getting knocked around, especially if you’re living the GoPro life. The subscription’s camera replacement feature is an absolute lifesaver. It allows you to replace your camera at a significant discount if it gets damaged, and let’s face it – GoPros tend to take a beating.

If your camera takes a nose dive off your bike, into the ocean, or through some other form of accidental destruction, you won’t be scrambling to find the cash for a full-price replacement.

For those who like a simple, no-fuss editing process, GoPro also gives full access to the Quik App. This app is a one-stop shop for creating slick, professional-looking edits without a PhD in video production. Whether you want to slap together a quick highlight reel or add music, filters, and effects, the Quik App’s intuitive design makes editing accessible, even if you’ve never opened an editing suite in your life.

While some of the subscription features might feel more pro-oriented, auto edits are certainly geared towards beginners. The app can help you create reels using the footage you selected, using different templates and music. Better still, the app ensures the video is fully synced to the music! All you have to do is upload the final video to social media.

What About Premium+?

If you’re eyeing something more advanced, there’s GoPro Premium+. This bad boy costs $99.99/ £99.99/ A$169.99 per year (or an additional $49.99/ £49.99/ AU$100 per annum if upgrading from Premium).

What’s the difference? Aside from everything mentioned in the Premium subscription, you’ll also get up to 500GB of cloud storage for footage from any action camera, not just GoPros. That extra space can be a game-changer for content creators juggling footage from multiple sources.

Also, Premium+ includes HyperSmooth Pro, GoPro’s advanced video stabilisation technology designed to create ultra-smooth footage even in extreme conditions. It’s a significant upgrade to GoPro's existing HyperSmooth technology, which was introduced to reduce the shakiness often found in action camera footage.

This subscription tier is particularly suited for more serious content creators or anyone who values that extra edge of smooth, polished footage without relying on additional software.

Is the GoPro Subscription worth it?

Here’s the big question: Should you fork over your hard-earned cash for this subscription?

If you're a casual GoPro user who only dusts off the camera once or twice a year, the value might be a bit overkill. You probably won’t need unlimited cloud storage, and you might not be buying enough accessories to make the discounts worth it.

However, if you’re a regular GoPro user who’s constantly filming and sharing footage, the benefits quickly add up.

Cloud storage alone is a massive perk for frequent users, especially if you record high-res videos on the go. Add in the camera replacement service, and it’s easy to see how the subscription pays for itself over time. For creators who edit and upload regularly, the combination of storage, app access, and accessory discounts makes the subscription a no-brainer.

On the other hand, if you’re someone who’s deep into the content creation world, Premium+ is the tier you’ll want to consider. With its advanced stabilisation tech and increased cloud storage for external footage, it’s designed for pros needing extra tools to take their work to the next level.

In short, GoPro Premium is for adventurers, creators, and “I just dropped my camera into the ocean” folks. If that sounds like you, go ahead and subscribe – you won’t regret it.

In the latest round of exciting tech launches, GoPro has unveiled the Hero, a compact, powerhouse action camera that's small enough to slip into your pocket but mighty enough to capture your wildest adventures in stunning 4K.

The Hero is the best GoPro for anyone who wants to dive into the action without a complicated setup.

Weighing in at just 86 grams, this ultra-lightweight wonder is like the Swiss Army knife of cameras, minus the tweezers and toothpick.

With its intuitive 2-inch LCD touchscreen, one-button control, and rugged, waterproof design (down to 16 feet or 5 meters), this camera is as user-friendly as it gets.

However, don’t let its small size fool you; the Hero packs a serious punch. It shoots ultra-HD 4K video at 30 frames per second, snaps 12MP photos, and even lets you capture silky-smooth slow-motion footage at 2.7K resolution with 60 frames per second.

And for those who live for the ‘Gram (or YouTube), the Hero’s 16:9 aspect ratio is optimised for horizontal video, ensuring your epic moments look just as good on screen as they did in real life.

Worried about shaky footage? The Hero uses the same top-tier HyperSmooth stabilisation as its more advanced sibling, the GoPro Hero 13 Black, which smooths out the bumps, so your footage looks professional.

Plus, with the Quik app, you can easily edit and enhance your shots on the go, grab 8MP stills from your videos, and share them instantly with the world.

The Hero is powered by GoPro’s long-lasting Enduro battery, giving you up to 100 minutes of continuous recording time on a single charge—plenty of juice for your next big adventure.

Priced at a very giftable $199.99, the Hero is available for pre-order now, with shipping starting on 22 September 2024. For more info, visit GoPro.

Even if you aren’t into action cams, you know the brand GoPro. Over the years, the company has built such a strong reputation that people started to use the word GoPro when they were talking about action cameras, the same way they do with Fitbits and fitness trackers.

The latest cohort of the best GoPros includes the flagship GoPro Hero 13 Black and the more compact Hero, offering different models for certain use scenarios. Furthermore, the Hero 13 Black added a host of news lens mode and shooting modes, which expands on the already impressive arsenal of different shooting modes the camera already had.

To get a better view of what the company is trying to achieve with the new cameras, I sat down with Pablo Lema, Head of Product at GoPro, to discuss the company’s latest offerings: the Hero 13 Black and the newly reintroduced Hero.

Our conversation provided a deep dive into the thought process behind these new action cameras and how they fit into the broader GoPro ecosystem. Plus, it was just a fun conversation with someone who knows everything about GoPro’s products and is also a nice person to be around.

Modularity and magnetic mounts: a practical evolution

I began by asking Pablo about the decision to incorporate modularity and magnetic mounts into the Hero 13 Black. According to Pablo, these features weren’t just added for the sake of novelty but stemmed from a genuine need to make GoPro cameras more adaptable.

“Our goal is simple yet complex,” he began. “We want to help people document what they care about in a fast and creative way. For many moments, a phone isn’t the right tool, and that’s where our products come in – what we call versatile or alternative imaging scenarios.”

Pablo elaborated on how the magnetic latch mounting system exemplifies GoPro’s commitment to usability. “When we saw people using it during beta testing, it hit home. The mounting system had to remain robust without adding complexity because these products need to be simple – just charge them, bring the necessary accessories, and go.”

Hero 13 Black: versatility at its core

The Hero 13 Black, GoPro’s new flagship model, is built around the concept of versatility. It features four interchangeable HB-Series lenses, each designed to offer different creative possibilities while maintaining GoPro’s trademark durability.

“We’ve always been known for our wide-angle, super-immersive images,” Pablo noted. “But our users kept asking for more options, like the ability to shoot in a more traditional, linear format. This led to the introduction of our linear lenses.”

Pablo also touched on the importance of catering to diverse use cases, from macro photography to cinematic production. “People began using GoPros for macro photography, like filming tiny objects up close or capturing detailed cooking shots. The desire to do things like this drove the development of our macro and even anamorphic lenses, which come from our media production side.”

The Hero 13 Black’s design reflects this user-driven approach, combining high-end features like HyperSmooth stabilisation with the flexibility to adapt to different shooting styles. However, Pablo emphasised that the camera remains true to its core mission. “The base product remains the same, but the lenses allow users to vary the type of footage they want to capture.”

Reimagining the Hero: simplicity and accessibility

On the other side of GoPro’s new lineup is the Hero, a camera that takes the simplicity of the original Hero models and refines it for today’s users. Weighing just 86 grams, the Hero is the smallest GoPro ever with a screen, designed to be straightforward and accessible.

“The Hero was born from the idea of making the GoPro experience more accessible,” Pablo explained. “We observed that many users wanted a GoPro to capture perspectives they couldn’t get with their phones, but they didn’t need all the advanced features of our flagship models.”

Despite its simplicity, the Hero retains GoPro’s signature ruggedness and 4K video capability, making it a practical choice for those who want a reliable camera without the complexity of more advanced models. “It’s simple: you press a big red button, and it records video that looks wide and cool, whether it’s mounted on your chin, a bike, or in a corner at an event,” Pablo added.

Looking ahead: GoPro’s future focus

Towards the end of our discussion, I asked Pablo about GoPro’s plans for the future, particularly in the realm of 360 cameras. While the Hero 13 Black and Hero are the focus for now, Pablo hinted that the company is still committed to developing its 360 camera technology.

“We’re still very committed to 360 cameras,” Pablo said. “The Max, which came out in 2019, remains competitive in terms of image quality. We know we need to make some software updates, and we’re working on that. Our goal with the next iteration is to make a significant leap forward.”

Pablo also addressed the pressure to constantly innovate in an industry that’s always pushing for higher resolution and more features. “We’re careful about setting a high bar in image quality, not just resolution. It’s easy to make an 8K device, but the challenge is to maintain image quality without overloading the processor. Most people aren’t clamouring for 8K; they want flexibility in framing and cropping.”

As our conversation concluded, it became clear that GoPro’s latest offerings are the result of a careful balance between innovation and user feedback. Through the modularity of the Hero 13 Black and the simplicity of the Hero, GoPro continues to focus on creating tools that enable users to capture the world around them in new and exciting ways while staying true to the core values that have defined the brand from the beginning.

To find out more about the new action cameras, head over to GoPro. Haven't got a GoPro yet? Check out T3's best GoPro deals roundup.

GoPro is admittedly the iPhone of the action camera world because you know a new model is coming every year; you just don’t know what the changes will be. Sometimes, the upgrades are less significant, but now and then, an iteration comes around that resets the playing field.

Is the GoPro Hero 13 Black this watershed action camera? Well, yes and no. It introduces a bunch of exciting accessories, such as the new lens attachments, magnetic charging door, and magnetic mounting option, which open up a whole host of new creative applications no other GoPro can match.

At the same time, the core experience stays similar to what it was before. By this, I mean that if you’re an average GoPro user – who might only record less extreme or creative scenarios – the Hero 13 Black will provide a similar experience to the GoPro Hero 12 Black or even the GoPro Hero 11 Black.

Who needs the Hero 13 Black, and is it the best GoPro (maybe even the best action camera) right now? Is it worth upgrading from the Hero 12 Black, or should you skip this generation and wait for the Hero 14 Black (maybe even the Hero 15 Black)? Read my full GoPro Hero 13 Black review below to find out.

GoPro Hero 13 Black review

Price and availability

The GoPro Hero 13 Black was announced in September 2024 and is now available for pre-ordered directly from GoPro. Preorder shipping and global retail on-shelf availability will begin on 10 September.

The Hero 13 Black retails for $399.99. The Hero 13 Black Creator Edition sells for $599.99 and includes the Volta Power Grip, Media Mod and Light Mod.

Ultra Wide Lens Mod ($99.99), Macro Lens Mod ($129.99) and the ND Filter 4-Pack ($69.99) are sold separately from Hero 13 Black and are also now available for preorder at GoPro. Sadly, the Anamorphic Lens Mod ($129.99) won’t be available until 2025.

The ultra-cool Contacto Magnetic Door and Power Cable Kit ($79.99) is also available, and so are the Magnetic Latch ($24.99) and Ball Joint Mounts ($39.99).

Specifications

• Dimensions (mm): 71.8W x 50.8H x 33.6D
• Weight (Camera + Mounting + Battery): 159g
• Rear Display Size: 2.27” Colour LCD
• Front Display Size: 1.4” Colour LCD
• Water rating: 33ft (10m)
• Sensor: TBC
• Max video resolution: 5.3K@60 / 4K@120, 5.3K@30 8:7 / 4K@60 8:7
• Image stabilisation: HyperSmooth 6.0
• Max photo resolution: 27MP
• Max screengrab from videos: 24.7MP from 5.3K 8:7 Video
• Maximum video bit rate: up to 120Mbps (5.3K / 4K)
• Built-in GPS: yes
• Battery: Removable 1900mAh
• Battery life: up to 163.1 minutes (16:9, 1080p@30/25/24)
• Connectivity: WiFi 6

Design and build quality

The GoPro Hero 13 Black is almost the spitting image of its predecessor. It has the same dimensions and weighs about the same (at 159g, the actual weight increase is a meagre 5g).

The displays are also the same, with a 2.27” colour touchscreen LCD at the rear and a 1.4” colour LCD at the front. The water rating also stayed the same, allowing you to use Hero 13 Black without any protective casing to a depth of 10m (33ft).

The buttons also stayed the same and are located on the camera's side and top. The battery compartment door still hides the micro SD card slot and the USB-C charging port, just like before. The optical unit stayed the same.

This doesn’t mean the two cameras are identical, though. The Hero 13 Black introduces a small grill under the lens, presumably to improve heat dissipation. The camera's finish is also different, going from a dark grey speckled with blue dots to a smoother grey.

One of the biggest differences can be found at the bottom of the camera. Along with the folding finger and 1/4-20 mounting thread, the GoPro Hero 13 also added a magnetic mounting option, meaning that you now have three ways to affix the action cam to different accessories.

As mentioned above, the Magnetic Latch is an extra that is not included in the box of the basic Hero 13 Black bundle.

One thing worth mentioning here is that although the magnetic mount is very stable, even GoPro recommends using the finger mount in the most hardcore use cases when the camera needs to stay in place. For example, if you mount the Hero 13 Black on the back of a car on a race track, you should probably use the finger mount instead of the magnetic one.

New lens mods

One of the biggest upgrades – if not the most significant – is the introduction of new lens attachments. Not only are there a bunch of new options, but the camera automatically recognises them and adjusts the settings accordingly.

Plus, the attachments now have a blue circle printed in one of the corners on the inside to help you align them with the Hero 13 Black. This makes swapping lens covers slightly less painful.

A pro tip: affix the Mods using their silicone case. It makes them easier to grab and twist and avoids accidentally touching the glass. Also, you can use the cap of the silicone case to store the standard lens cover of your GoPro while it’s off-camera.

All new lens mods are scratch-resistant with hydrophobic coatings, but have different waterproofing-rating when attached to the Hero 13 Black, as per below:

• Macro Lens Mod to 3.3ft (1m)
• Ultra Wide and Anamorphic Lens Mods to 16ft (5m)
• ND Filter 4-Pack to 33ft (10m)

The Ultra Wide Lens Mod is based on the design of the Max Lens Mod 2.0, offering an expanded field of view up to 177°, which lets you cut the footage in post in a million different ways, from 16:9 ultra-wide horizontal to 9:16 ultra-wide vertical and anything in between. With this attachment, the Hero 13 Black can shoot up to 4K60 or as slow as 1080p120.

Admittedly, this is GoPro’s answer to 360-degree action cams such as the Insta360 X4, which allows you to shoot one piece of footage and crop it in any way imaginable. However, the Hero 13 Black’s version might be perceived as more accessible to post-process, thanks to the lack of keyframing.

One of the attachments that GoPro emphasised during the press briefing is the Macro Lens Mod. As expected, adding this will allow the Hero 13 Black to focus on objects close to the lens and be used in non-macro situations, thanks to its focus ring and focus peaking feature.

The brand says the minimum focus distance is 4.33in (11cm), and you can tweak where the focus is using the built-in rotating lens ring. In theory, the Macro Lens Mod even allows you to achieve a subtle bokeh effect!

I haven’t had much time to play around with the Macro Lens Mod yet, but I am finding it slightly underwhelming. 4.3 inches is close for a massive 100mm DSRL lens but very far for the Hero 13 Black due to its expanded FOV, making you feel the camera’s macro isn’t macro at all. Plus, the focus peaking is hard to see on the small rear display of the Hero 13 Black.

I see the potential application of this accessory in certain situations, but it needs some more tweaking. It would probably be suitable if you need a lens mod to shoot ‘close-ups’ of motorbike chains or your face when riding a bike.

One more thing I find slightly concerning – in need of a better word here – is the physical rotating ring. I’m sure it’s ultra-durable, but once salt water and/or sand gets under the rim, it’ll grate away the lens. And considering what situations the Hero 13 Black can be used in, this is something to consider and keep an eye on.

My favourite lens accessory is the ND (neutral density) Filter 4-Pack, which also happens to be the most affordable one. When used with an action camera, ND filters help create smoother motion blur, providing a sense of speed.

There are four filters in the pack (ND4 / ND8 / ND16 / ND32), and the Hero 13 Black can even recommend which one to use. Auto-detect adjusts settings and ND metering and recommends a higher or lower density filter depending on available lighting.

When you pop the ND filter on and point the camera in the direction you’ll be filming, you’ll see an arrow at the top of the screen pointing up or down if the camera thinks you should change the filter to a lighter or stronger one.

I would recommend the ND filters as an add-on, although I haven’t tried the Anamorphic Lens Mod yet, which might be even better.

The Anamorphic Lens Mod will launch next year, so we only know what we expect to see when it does in 2025. This accessory lends a blockbuster movie look to your footage with cinematic lens flares for professional-level artistic filmmaking. The Hero 13 Black’s aspect ratio also changes to 21:9 when the lens is on the camera, further enhancing that silver screen feel.

(New) features

As for new features that aren’t connected to any of the latest accessories, the GoPro Hero 13 Black offers only a few.

The most important is the ridiculously capable Burst Slo-Mo, which can shoot up to 400 actual frames at 720p in a 15-second burst. GoPro emphasised that these frames aren’t interpolated; the camera captures each individual frame in a sequence.

If you need more resolution, the Hero 13 Black can also shoot 900p360 in 15 real-time seconds and 5.3K120 in 5 real-time seconds. This powerful feature can be used to create dramatic footage of water ripples, sand spraying out from under a bike's wheels, and more.

The only caveat is that it ‘only’ captures footage for a maximum of 15 seconds, so Burst Slo-Mo videos will need to be orchestrated more than standard high-frame-rate videos. If you need continuous footage with a high frame rate, you should use the 4k120 mode, introduced in the Hero 12 Black.

Another new and more professional addition is HLG HDR Video. GoPro added HDR (high dynamic range) mode in the Hero 12 Black, and added hybrid-log gamma (HLG) to the Hero 13 Black as an extension to this.

The brand claims the HLG HDR meets broadcasting industry HDR standards, including 10-bit and Rec. 2100 colour space and a wider colour gamut. Not surprisingly, HLG HDR playback requires an HDR-compliant monitor and a media player that supports HDR.

The addition of the HLG HDR mode shows in which direction GoPro is trying to take its flagship camera. With the introduction of the compact HERO, it’s evident that the Hero 13 Black is moving away from a one-size-fits-all approach and will follow a more top-end, nuanced approach, catering more to creative and professional users.

Other features include WiFi 5 connectivity for 40% faster WiFi transfer speeds, plus even-faster wired transfers with a USB-C cable, customisable presets (name, beep volume, LED behaviour, and screensaver options), and GPS.

Well, GPS was disabled on the Hero 12 Black, so it’s technically not a new feature, but those few users who were desperate to have GPS will be happy to know that it’s back. GPS allows you to share speed, path, terrain, altitude, and g-force overlay from the Quik app, which is excellent for motorsport or cycling applications.

Performance

The GoPro Hero 13 Black didn't change much of the core functionality, so most people will likely use the 5.3K at 60fps as the standard setting (like I did), which is the exact maximum resolution as the Hero 12 Black.

There is nothing wrong with that, though. In my interview with Pablo Lema, GoPro's Head of Product said, “We’re careful about setting a high bar in image quality, not just resolution. It’s easy to make an 8K device, but the challenge is to maintain image quality without overloading the processor."

In essence, GoPro focused on the new Mods with the Hero 13 Black, not bumping up the resolution. The company added the 400fps Burst Slo-Mo, a mode I'm yet to explore in more depth.

One of the more exciting features connected to the new Lens Mods is the cropability of the Ultra Wide lens footage. You can edit the same footage in any way you like. Above, I edited the footage to suit the social media standard 9:16, while below, it's a more YouTube-friendly 16:9. Same raw footage.

Battery life

One of the new hardware upgrades is the enhanced 1900mAh Enduro Battery, which is 10% larger than the one featured in the Hero 12 Black. According to GoPro, the battery offers improved power efficiency and a re-engineered battery connector for longer runtimes in hot and cold environments.

For example, the runtime at 5.3K resolution, 60 or 50 fps, and 16:9 image ratio went from 70 to 79 minutes, a 13% increase. This doesn’t mean all modes got 13% more efficient, though. Some increased up to 22% (16:9, 2.7K@240/200 is now 78 minutes, compared to the Hero 12 Black's 64), while others only 4% (16:9, 5.3K@30/25/24 went from 98 to 104.3).

Overall, it’s a battery life increase, no matter how you look at it, without the added bulk. Enabling the GPS obviously significantly reduces runtime, so unless you’re desperate for those sweet overlays, I’d recommend keeping it turned off.

One more thing to mention is the Contacto Magnetic Door and Power Cable Kit, which is a cool accessory that replaces the battery door with a magnetic version, allowing the Hero 13 Black to function without interruptions while being charged.

Sadly, I wasn't provided with a sample of the Contacto, but once I get one, I'll update the review with my thoughts on it. It certainly looks cool in the pictures.

Who’s the GoPro Hero 13 Black for?

The GoPro Hero 13 Black is a top-tier action camera aimed at prosumers and creatives who like pushing their limits artistically. It can be used as a point-and-shoot device – there is an ‘Easy’ control mode that reduces the number of shooting options – but it’s too pricey and overkill for that purpose.

Getting a GoPro Hero 13 Black for shooting basic videos is a slap in the face of the hundreds of hard-working individuals at GoPro who go out of their way to make capable, compact recording devices to capture unique videos and photos.

The addition of the new lens mods opens up a whole new world of creative possibilities, which isn’t for everyone. If you’re curious and want to push your content creation process to new heights, the Hero 13 Black is for you.

Should you buy the GoPro Hero 13 Black?

While the GoPro Hero 12 was the only option for both beginners and enthusiasts alike, the 13th generation offers two distinctly different options for the two categories. If you’re a beginner or casual user, you’re better off getting the Hero 12 Black, which is now cheaper and is often on offer, or the dinky Hero. You might want to consider the GoPro Hero 11 Black.

Should you upgrade from the Hero 12 Black? Unless you want to push your creative limits, I think the Hero 12 Black is more than capable enough for you. You can’t use the new lenses, but the core functionality is the same, so you’re not losing out on a ton unless you accessorise.

Verdict

I gave the GoPro Hero 12 Black the maximum five stars last year because, as I said in the intro, it’s hard not to get super excited when a new GoPro launches. In 2024, I was determined to approach the Hero 13 Black review as analytically as possible, considering many different factors and use scenarios.

What I found is that the Hero 13 Black is an awesome camera with a ton of unique use cases and features that enable you to express yourself in ways you couldn’t before. Personally, I can’t wait to see how creators will use the new Lens Mods and the Burst Slo Mo to bring to life videos and photos previously unavailable due to hardware and software limitations.

That said, most of the new features either cost extra (i.e. Lens Mods) or cater for more professional users (i.e. HLG HDR), which makes the base unit very similar to the Hero 12 Black.

I imagine only a small portion of GoPro users will go swimming with sharks or jump out of aeroplanes; the rest will use the cameras to record kids playing in the pool or vlogging, and for that, the Hero 13 Black is almost too much.

It’s a fantastic camera, nevertheless, for whatever purpose you want to use it for. I found it creatively inspiring, thinking long and hard about which angle and shooting mode I should use to help bring to life my creative vision, which makes me think about whether the Hero 13 Black is the ultimate action camera right now for creatives.

The GoPro Hero 13 Black certainly is an awe-inspiring tool for creative minds – that’s for sure.

Also consider

GoPro Hero 12 Black: Still powerful, cheaper, and great for most users who don't need the Hero 13's advanced features.

Insta360 X4: Offers 360-degree video and versatile cropping options, appealing to users who want more post-production flexibility.

DJI Osmo Action 4: Known for excellent image stabilisation, solid battery life, and a user-friendly design at a lower price point.

Insta360 Ace Pro: Delivers excellent image stabilisation, low-light performance and AI-powered editing, perfect for immersive and dynamic content creators.

Akaso Brave 7 LE: A budget-friendly option with decent 4K recording and weatherproofing for casual users.

The GoPro Hero 12 Black is pretty much perfect: we gave it the full five stars in our GoPro Hero 12 Black review. GoPro has a winning formula here, and that means new versions are a bit like new iPhones: they tend to be evolutionary rather than revolutionary changes, refining what's already a very accomplished camera. And that pattern appears to be repeating with the imminent GoPro Hero 13 Black, which has just leaked.

The leaked details suggest that we're going to see some useful improvements but nothing too radical: this is the same GoPro Hero that you love, but it's been tweaked slightly to make it even better.

GoPro Hero 13 Black: what we know so far

The leak comes via reputable leaker Igor Bogdanov on X, the former Twitter, who's revealed several photos of what appear to be the new GoPro. The body looks very slightly taller, and there's a new grille on the front. The image sensor appears to be the same as in the current model but there are some key changes to what you can do with it, including HLG HDR video. The leak also promises enhanced audio, although it doesn't go into detail.

That slightly taller body could be there to make room for a bigger battery. Bogdanov says that the battery has been increased from the current 1,720mAh to 1,900mAh. "This will give the Hero 13 over 3 hours of 1080p30 and over 1.5 hours when recording 4K30 or 5.3K30 video," he says. 

There appear to be some new Lens Mod accessories too including a Macro lens and a new Ultra Wide lens. The leak doesn't go into detail about those so as yet we don't know how the ultrawide differs from the current Mod. And there appears to be auto-detection for Lens Mods, which indicates automatic configuration when you swap lenses.

The packaging, which has also leaked, says there will be an Anamorphic lens option. That's interesting because that's an option GoPro doesn't currently offer, with third party manufacturers plugging the gap instead. Anamorphic lenses are great for more cinematic video.

That's not the only Hero leak that Bogdanov has published this week. He's also posted an image of a new, more affordable 4K GoPro that may be called the GoPro Hero. Both new products are expected to launch in September 2024.

Amazon Prime Day 2024 is almost upon us, but we’ve already seen some stellar savings on Garmin watches, coffee machines, and DJI drones. Next to join the early deal club is GoPro, so if an action camera has been on your wishlist for a while the wait could be over. 

Right now Amazon has some fantastic early Prime Day deals where you can save up to (just over) £150 on some of the best GoPros on the market. As part of T3’s Active team, GoPros are just one of the many cool gadgets I get to trial and test. Here are the top three GoPro deals I’d be buying in the early Amazon Prime sale.

Amazon Prime sale: GoPro deals I'd buy

• Read our full five-star GoPro HERO 11 review

• Read our full five-star GoPro HERO 12 review

• Read our full five-star GoPro HERO 10 review

In case you're unfamiliar, Amazon Prime Day is Black Friday but in July. 2024's shopping extravaganza is no different from the ones we've seen in previous years in the sense that there will be loads of exciting offers to choose from.

In fact, there already is a brilliant deal on the latest and greatest action cam (a.k.a. the best GoPro) the brand has to offer: the GoPro Hero 12 Black is currently 25% off, saving you £100 on a brand-spanking new rugged camera. Better still, you don't need Prime Membership to cash in on this offer!

The GoPro Hero 12 Black is a top-tier action camera that enhances its predecessor's features with several new additions. It retains the same physical design as the GoPro Hero 11 but introduces a 1/4-20 mounting thread for more accessory compatibility.

The standout features include native vertical capture mode, high dynamic range (HDR) video at 5.3K and 4K, and improved HyperSmooth 6.0 image stabilization, which offers seamless horizon levelling. The camera also supports Bluetooth audio devices, enabling easier voiceovers and remote control.

With double the battery life of its predecessor, the Hero 12 Black delivers up to 70 minutes of continuous 5.3K recording at 60fps. Its eco-friendly power management and various pro features, like GP-Log and wireless timecode sync, make it a versatile choice for both amateurs and professionals.

Interested in GoPro offers? Check out T3's best cheap GoPro deals roundup. 

If you're looking to upgrade to one of the best action cameras on the market, then you should check out this excellent deal on the GoPro Hero 11 Black: the 5-star rated action camera is down to £249 – which means it's the lowest price its ever been on Amazon UK.

View the GoPro Hero 11 Black deal here

As you would expect, we've done our due diligence over at CamelCamelCamel to ensure the GoPro Hero 11 Black has never been cheaper on Amazon. It's been knocked down by 38% – a not insignificant £150.99 – from its previous price of £399.99.

So what is it that makes the GoPro Hero 11 Black so good? In our GoPro Hero 11 Black review – where the action camera got a full 5/5 rating – we described the device as "one of the most impressive action cameras around", thanks to combining high performance with straightforward usability.

GoPro cameras have always excelled at grabbing fantastic footage without much in the way of setup or configuration (though there are certainly plenty of settings to dig into if you need them), and the Hero 11 Black model continues that tradition. Just tap the record button, and quality footage is guaranteed.

Another advantage of going with GoPro for your action camera is that there are so many accessories out there, from straps to mounts to waterproof cases. If you want to extend the capabilities of your GoPro Hero 11 Black camera, then you're not going to be short of extras to choose from.

All of which makes the GoPro Hero 11 Black an extremely appealing action camera, and even more so considering it's now cheaper than ever before. You could invest the money you save on an additional battery, for example, enabling you to keep recording for longer while you're out and about with the device.

Insta360, known for its rugged 360° cameras, achieves a significant milestone with the availability of its Ace Pro camera at Apple. This move solidifies the brand's position as a formidable competitor to GoPro in the action camera market.

Co-engineered with optical experts Leica, the Insta360 Ace Pro boasts impressive specifications, including a massive 1/1.3" sensor, a powerful 5nm AI chip, and a Leica SUMMARIT lens.

The Insta360 Ace Pro is also the first ever action camera to integrate seamlessly with your Apple Watch, allowing you to overlay your videos with GPS, speed, and other real-time data.

Since the launch of the Ace Pro, Insta360 has been proving the new action camera is just as rugged as the best Gopros, including the current flagship GoPro Hero 12 Black, by putting the camera through all sorts of durability tests. Here are a few examples:

Of course, the Ace Pro isn't just rugged but also capable of capturing action in high fidelity.

It offers 4K120fps video, 48MP photos, and PureVideo for exceptional low-light performance as well as a vlogging-friendly 2.4" flip touchscreen and a rugged, waterproof design.

Noteworthy software features include an in-camera auto-editing tool, AI Highlights Assistant, AI Selfie Stick Eraser, Custom-keyword-based AI Warp, the fabulous Clarity Zoom, Gesture Control, and seamless integration with Garmin devices for overlaying real-time data onto videos.

The Insta360 Ace Pro Apple Bundle is now available worldwide at Apple for $519.95/ £499.95/ AU$ 869.95. It includes accessories such as mounts, a tripod, a microSD card, batteries, cables, and a carry case—everything you need to capture amazing footage.

Back in the day, having a GoPro Subscription meant that you could get the latest and greatest GoPro action cameras for cheaper than non-subscribers. When the company got rid of this benefit, interest in GoPro Subscription waned slightly.

Looking at a Redditor's photos, there might be other reasons why you might want to keep that subscription going.

In a post titled '100m free fall with fpv drone…', Redditor Fit-Variation-4220 shared some photos of what looks like a GoPro Hero 12 Black, completely disfigured after a 100-metre (approx. 328 feet) fall while attached to a drone. The lens and the battery door fell off, and the battery itself seems to be missing, too. Ouch.

100m free fall with fpv drone… from r/gopro

As rugged as the best GoPro is, it can't withstand such a massive fall without complete obliteration. Officially, the Hero 12 Black should be able to survive a fall from 10 metres (33ft) without Protective Housing and 60 metres (196ft) with Protective Housing.

You might wonder what any of this has to do with the GoPro Subscription. Well, as damaged as the above action camera is, you can still trade it in if you're a subscriber for a whopping $100. Even assuming it isn't the Hero 12 Black, cameras all the way back to the Hero 9 Black can be traded in for the same price.

That's a whopping $100 off your next GoPro, whichever model it might be!

GoPro's Premium subscription (links to GoPro) costs $49.99 a year ($24.99 for the first year for new subscribers), and as well as the generous trade-in offer, you also get unlimited cloud storage, synced mobile and desktop editing, up to 50% off accessories, auto uploads and more.

If you're planning on using your GoPro how you should – a.k.a. in situations where the camera might get knocked repeatedly – it's well worth considering the GoPro Subscription. Have you seen our best GoPro deals roundup? You might want to check it out.

The Insta360 Ace Pro arrived with a big-big splash last year. Featuring a pivoting rear screen, the innovative Clarity Zoom and a superb optical unit co-engineered with Leica, the Ace Pro really is one of the most exciting action cameras launched in recent years. And thanks to the latest free software update, it's also better value now!

The new firmware (V1.0.35) adds a bunch of exciting features to the already impressive roster, including an Active HDR option in FreeFrame and Loop Recording modes, improved compatibility with more GPS devices and motorcycle helmet headsets, including the Insta360 GPS Action Remote, and Clarity Zoom in more photo and video shooting modes. These include:

• Video: 4K/2.7K/1080p@60fps and below (16:9)
• PureVideo: 4K/2.7K/1080p@30fps and below (16:9)
• Loop Recording: 4K/2.7K/1080p 60fps and below (16:9)
• Photo: 12MP/9MP
• HDR Photo: 12MP/9MP
• Interval Photo: 12MP/9MP

One of our favourite new features is Webcam Mode support with facial detection to zoom in/out of your face. Mimicking the functionality of the top-rated Insta360 Link, this new feature effectively turns the Ace Pro into a 1080p webcam with Leica optics – not bad.

Furthermore, the action cam now lets you toggle Active HDR, an option requested by the Insta360 community. The update also includes fixes and improvements, such as the sharpness is now on the shooting parameters page and can be adjusted independently in different modes, and the time to zoom in or out of footage during recording is shorter, among other things.

For more info and to download the latest firmware, visit Insta360 today.

Today, GoPro announced the initial release of a macOS desktop version of its mobile app, Quik, and a new Premium+ GoPro subscription tier offering additional features and benefits beyond GoPro Premium.

The Quik app is a hallmark of GoPro's offering, making editing your action camera footage on your smartphone easy. The app has a ton of user-friendly features, including beat sync, which automatically matches your edit points to the rhythm of your soundtrack, auto highlight, and more.

GoPro subscribers can also benefit from auto camera-to-cloud upload of their latest GoPro footage, unlimited cloud storage of their GoPro footage at original quality, auto highlight videos sent to their phones, intuitive cloud editing and media management tools, and more.

"Quik's auto-editing experience represents a convenient starting point for new creators, and our more advanced editing tools and ongoing developments in AI and computer vision ensure pro-minded users will enjoy enhanced capability as we continue to update our apps," says GoPro Founder and CEO Nicholas Woodman.

The new GoPro Premium+ subscription tier, which costs twice as much as GoPro Premium, includes all Premium features plus a HyperSmooth Pro video stabilisation tool for advanced users and an additional 500GB of cloud storage for footage captured with any camera to this features list.

As you can tell, the GoPro Premium+ is geared towards pros and not GoPro enthusiasts. The GoPro Hero 12 Black added several pro features, including LUT support for more control and colour grading in post-production and the ability to wireless timecode sync an unlimited number of Hero 12 Black cameras for easy multicamera editing.

As such, it makes sense for GoPro to improve its post-processing game in the Quik app instead of relying on third-party applications such as Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premier.

The Quik desktop app is available at no additional charge to GoPro subscribers, and it is said to sync with the Quik mobile app effortlessly. GoPro says the Windows version is "coming later this year."

GoPro Premium+ membership costs $100/ £100 a year. GoPro Premium membership is $50/ £50. GoPro Premium membership is currently half-price. For more info, visit GoPro today.

Today’s smartphones go way beyond the basic remit of keeping us connected to friends, family and workmates - they are also gaming devices, video streamers, MP3 players and, perhaps more importantly, pocket digital cameras.

The temptation to ignore the incremental updates occurring in the digital photography world and simply snap away with a smartphone is real and ever-present, especially seeing as the modern smartphone is nearly always in a pocket, and it saves you the faff of lugging around additional equipment.

But despite the modern smartphone proving an extremely capable capturer of still images and high-resolution video, it still has its limitations, and this is where purpose-built, diminutive devices like the best GoPros come into their own.

And when we say GoPros, we mean action cameras in general, as although GoPro is synonymous with action cameras the same way Fitbit is with fitness trackers, there are other brands to consider before buying an action camera than just GoPro (although GoPros are pretty good).

With that in mind, we have mulled over six reasons why you should leave the smartphone behind and get creative with GoPro. Lights, camera, extreme action!

(Haven't got a GoPro yet? Check out T3's best cheap GoPro deals roundup to find an offer today.)

1. A GoPro is more rugged

The bottom line is that GoPros are built tough. Think about it, these cameras are designed to be attached to a helmet as that helmet (and human) jump out of a plane, ski off a cliff or leap over several buses on a motorcycle. The latest GoPro Hero 12 Black is pretty much indestructible straight out of the box, with things like a hydrophobic lens cover ensuring water shots remain crystal clear. All without the need to purchase additional cases and cover. 

2. There are lots of shooting modes to choose from

The GoPro as we know it is in its 12th iteration, and over that time, the company has tweaked and added features that make capturing the best shots easier. 

For example, Hindsight captures up to 30 seconds of footage before you start recording so you don’t miss a moment, while bespoke Night Effects make it simple to snare star trails and get creative with light painting.

Cleverly, GoPro also offers a number of lens angles and orientations, with everything from super-wide HyperView to more cinematic widescreen options and even vertical capture for direct posting to social media accounts.

3. It captures pro level image and sound

Even professional camera crews resort to GoPro when capturing the action, as the latest devices offer top-level frame rates and resolutions, as well as the ability to record video in 10-bit colour with GP-Log encoding.

It might sound like word soup, but it allows pro creators to make the most of advanced colour grading features in post-production. Similarly, still photography can be captured in RAW and at crazy resolutions, resulting in more detail and scope when getting creative in Lightroom, PhotoShop and other digital image manipulation software.

4. There’s fewer distractions with a GoPro

While a smartphone is the last word in convenience when it comes to grabbing and snaring the shot, it can also be very annoying when notifications come in and you get sidetracked with an email chain rather than capturing the moment.

A GoPro is designed to work alongside your smartphone, which should act as a secondary camera or the perfect place to throw together a quick video and/or stills image edit, leaving capturing duties solely to the action cam.

So, no more missing the moment while replying to an Instagram message or having a video ruined, thanks to an incoming call.

5. Editing masterpieces is Quik and easy

One of the biggest bugbears GoPro owners had with their devices was the issue of capturing gigabytes worth of excellent video footage but little knowledge, know-how or desire to edit it into something engaging.

The launch of GoPro’s Quik smartphone app made it far simpler to sync the technology (typically your phone and GoPro) and throw together neat little video clips from the footage captured by the action camera. 

What’s more, an Auto Highlight feature will bundle together what it determines as your best clips, making for a very quick and easy social share or a great starting point for your next masterpiece.

6. You can wear it

Have you tried attaching your precious smartphone to the handlebars of a motorcycle and shredding several laps of a motocross course? You have to be either very brave or very daft to attempt such an endeavour, as not only will the resulting footage probably look rubbish, but it will also likely result in a very smashed phone.

We’ve already mentioned the robustness of a GoPro, but its other USP is the vast array of mounts (both official and third-party) that are on offer. Extension poles, floating grips, bite mounts, chest straps and all manner of suction points make it easier to stick a GoPro anywhere you desire.

CES 2024 is two and a half weeks away, which is crazy, as 2023 has just begun. Nevertheless, we expect to see tons of exciting consumer tech product launches happen on or around the event. One of these is VR camera manufacturer Kandao's announcement of the company's new action camera, the QooCam 3 Ultra.

Built on the foundation laid by the well-received, affordable Kandao QooCam 3, the new 360-degree camera that hits stores in 2024 and is said to rival big-ticket rivals such as the Insta360 X3, with its dual 1/1.7-inch sensors, dual fisheye lenses, four built-in microphones, an F1.6 aperture, a six-axis gyroscope, and a 2.19-inch touchscreen.

The Kandao QooCam 3 Ultra supports 10-bit HLG video recording up to 8K@30fps resolution, plus 5.7K@60fps and even 4K@120fps videos with instant stabilisation. It also has the capability to capture up to 96MP 360-degree photos with in-cam stitching and long exposure.

Furthermore, with DNG8 with Raw+ Algorithm, the QooCam 3 Ultra is said to "surpass optical limitations, capturing enhanced panoramic photos that preserve rich image details and deliver exceptional quality," Kandao says. The DNG8 format also provides greater flexibility in post-processing and editing. 

QooCam 3 Ultra also comes equipped with an in-camera live-streaming function that allows for easy broadcasting of immersive 360° experiences in real-time to audiences. Kandao claims that the new camera has a real-time stitching capability, even during live streaming, meaning that you can share your 360° experiences with your audience in real-time without the hassle of post-processing.

We haven't got any information about the price and availability of the Kandao QooCam 3 Ultra. To find out more, head over to Kandao today. 

What is the difference between Insta360’s latest action camera, the Insta360 Ace Pro, and the GoPro Hero 12 Black market leader? The launch of the Insta360 Ace Pro saw a company that until now had almost entirely focused on 360° cameras, like the  Insta360 X3, move into traditional action cameras to challenge the market leader, the Go Pro Hero 12 Black. The battle for the title of best action camera is on. 

After bridge products like the Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch and Insta360 GO 3, the Insta360 Ace Pro was perhaps inevitable, but it looks like a solid challenge to the Go Pro Hero 12 Black. For example, it offers 8K video, a wider field of view and a flip-screen, three features lacking on the Go Pro Hero 12 Black. However, as well as topping the best GoPros, there are other areas where the market leader retains a lead over its new rival. 

Here’s what you need to know about the differences between the Insta360 Ace Pro and the GoPro Hero 12 Black – and which one you should buy.

GoPro Hero 12 Black vs Insta360 Ace Pro

GoPro Hero 12 Black vs Insta360 Ace Pro: price and availability

If you think Insta360 is a cut-price challenger to GoPro, think again. Launched in November 2023 and sold directly from Insta360 for a recommended retail price of $450/ £430/AU$729. If you don’t mind sacrificing some pixels and low-light skills, the 6K-capable Insta360 Ace sells for $380/ £360/AU$609.

The GoPro Hero 12 Black sells for $400/£400/AU$650 at GoPro. Though there is no budget version of the GoPro Hero 12 Black, 2022’s screen-less GoPro Hero 11 Black Mini is still available for $300/£300/AUS$500. 

It might seem like the GoPro Hero 12 Black is priced lower, but that’s not the case if you go for the accessories bundle, which costs $450/ £450/ AU$ 730 and includes the camera, two Endure batteries, the Handler and Head Strap 2.0 accessories, and a carry case. The Max Lens Mod 2.0 is also available for $100/ £100/AU$170. 

WINNER: GoPro Hero 12 Black, which is more affordable than the Insta360 Ace Pro, though the various bundles and post-launch deals and discounts narrow the gap.

GoPro Hero 12 Black vs Insta360 Ace Pro: design and build quality

Regarding design, there are some significant differences between these two action cameras. The GoPro Hero 12 Black has a 1.4-inch colour display on its front – a so-called selfie screen beloved by bloggers – and a 2.27-inch touchscreen on its rear. However, the Insta360 Ace Pro has a tiny mono display on its front (to usefully show the current settings, not live images) and a 2.4-inch flip-up colour touchscreen on its rear.

Vloggers may initially feel that a colour display on the front is more beneficial. However, the Insta360 Ace Pro’s flip-screen moves 180° and swivels to face forwards, doubling as a much larger colour front display. The Insta360 Ace Pro doesn’t need its mono front display. 

A headline feature on the Insta360 Ace Pro is its fixed Leica SUMMARIT lens. Not to be outdone, the GoPro Hero 12 Black’s built-in lens can be augmented by the Max Lens Mod 2.0 lens accessory, which extends the field of view. 

Physically, the two action cameras have very similar footprints, though the Insta360 Ace Pro weighs 180g to the GoPro Hero 12 Black’s 154g. Both are waterproof without cases down to 10m (33ft), and dive cases are available for both to take them safely down to 60m (196 feet).

How these two products connect to accessories differs slightly. While the GoPro Hero 12 Black retains its trademark built-in mounting fingers, the Insta360 Ace Pro uses a magnetic clip that attaches to its undercarriage and has GoPro-style mounting fingers. 

There’s little to choose between them on battery either, with the Insta360 Ace Pro’s 1,650mAh and the GoPro Hero 12 Black’s 1,720mAh batteries offering between 90 and 150 minutes depending on the resolutions you choose to shoot in. 

WINNER: Although they’re physically almost identical, the usefulness of the Insta360 Ace Pro’s flip-screen and its Leica lens wins the day. 

GoPro Hero 12 Black vs Insta360 Ace Pro: video and sound quality

The most significant difference between the two action cameras is their image sensors. While the GOPRO has a 1/1.9-inch CMOS sensor, the Insta360 Ace Pro uses a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor. That means better low-light video from the Insta360 Ace Pro, whose larger sensor equals that of the DJI Osmo Action 4.

The Insta360 Ace Pro also wins out on pixels, with 48-megapixel photos and a maximum video resolution of 8K. However, it only captures 8K in 24 frames per second (fps), and the next option down the food chain is 4K at 60fps. The GoPro Hero 12 Black offers 27-megapixel photos, and its video maxes out at 5.3K, but it captures at 60fps and also offers 4K at 120fps (4x slo-mo) and 2.7K at 240fps (8x slo-mo).

GoPro and Insta360 list so many advanced features that it’s difficult to judge which is best, but each has some exclusives.

The GoPro Hero 12 Pro boasts 10-bit video that is peerless in daylight, HDR video and photos, HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization with 360° horizon lock, and a native vertical capture mode that allows you to shoot videos in a 9:16 ratio. The latter will appeal to vloggers. Filmmakers will adore a new Timecode Sync that wirelessly synchronizes multiple GoPro Hero 12 Pro units. 

Meanwhile, the Insta360 Ace Pro’s larger image sensor powers a low-light video mode called PureShot that impresses despite maxing out at 30 fps. It also offers its silky smooth FlowState image stabilisation in three strengths: HDR video, 360º horizon-lock in FreeFrame video mode.

One feature to note is Clarity Zoom, which uses the 8K sensor to allow 2x zoom on 4K without any loss of detail. Another is the instant deletion of a recording in progress just by holding the shutter button. Its app also offers AI-powered templates and an AI Highlights Assistant for auto-generating highlights. 

The GoPro Hero 12 Black and Insta360 Ace Pro capture audio in stereo, but they also have Bluetooth to be used with the best wireless earbuds, such as the Apple AirPods Pro 2, or a microphone via adaptors. 

WINNER: With so many great features, choosing between them is hard. If you want to make movies, the GoPro Hero 12 Black is for you in daylight, but for shooting in low-light night, the Insta360 Ace Pro rules – and its Clarity Zoom is hard to resist.

GoPro Hero 12 Black vs Insta360 Ace Pro: which should you buy

It’s tough to choose between these two hugely likeable action cameras. As a first attempt at challenging the market leader, the Insta360 Ace Pro is impressive. Its large sensor, 8K resolution option, radical flip-screen display, and superb build quality make it a premium product.

However, the GoPro Hero 12 Black has a lot for going for it. For content creators, the Insta360’s flip-screen and the GoPro's 9:16 aspect ratio video will both appeal.

Overall, the Insta360 Ace Pro is the top choice for versatile vlogging, and the GoPro Hero 12 Black’s 10-bit video and Timecode Sync make it an excellent option for action shots and filmmaking.

GoPro Hero 12 Black review in a nutshell: If you want the best action camera, you need the GoPro Hero 12 Black. Simple as that.

It's hard – if not impossible – not to be amazed by the best GoPros. Every time a new model comes out, we get reminded why most people think of GoPros as the best action cameras. They are technically advanced, have tons of user-friendly features and provide the crispest footage out there. In short, GoPros are amazing.

This comes from a person obsessed with his Insta360 X3 and also recently enjoyed playing around with the DJI Osmo Action 3. I'm also a keen user of the super-compact Insta360 GO 3. And there is nothing wrong with that; there is enough space in the action camera market for a whole host of different devices to co-exist.

But, man, the GoPro Hero 12 Black is in a league of its own. With the latest updates, GoPro really pushed the boat out to ensure professionals and beginner content creators can all enjoy using the action camera for whatever they want. As always, the new model is an iteration, not a complete reimagination of the concept, but it's a good iteration and one that everyone interested in action cams should be excited about.

Read my full GoPro Hero 12 Black review to learn more about why that's the case. 

GoPro Hero 12 Black review

Price and availability

The GoPro Hero12 Black ($399.99/ £399.99/ AU$ 649.95) and Max Lens Mod 2.0 ($99.99 or $79.99 for GoPro subscribers/ £99.99/ AU$ 169.95) are available to buy directly from GoPro US, GoPro UK, GoPro AU and select third-party retailers. 

As you might know, the brand got rid of GoPro Subscription pricing for its action cameras earlier this year, making it cheaper for people with no subscription to buy an action camera. This means you can buy the Hero 12 Black for the same price as the Hero 11 Black was sold for GoPro Subscribers.

The GoPro Hero 12 Black Accessories Bundle ($449.99/ £449.99/ AU$ 729.95) includes the camera, two Endure batteries, the Handler and Head Strap 2.0 accessories, and a carry case. This is a pretty solid bundle that can save you a bit of money compared to buying all the bits separately.

There is also the GoPro Hero 12 Black Creator Edition ($599.99/ £599.99/ AU$ 949.95), which includes the Volta Battery Grip, Media Mod, Light Mod and an Enduro Battery. This is best suited for content creators shooting solo.

For the best prices on the GoPro Hero 12 Black and other GoPros, head over to T3's best cheap GoPro deals page.

Specifications

• Dimensions (mm): 71.8 W x 50.8 H x 33.6 D
• Weight (Camera + Mounting + Battery): 154g
• Rear Display Size: 2.27" Touch LCD
• Front Display Size: 1.4" Color LCD
• Water rating: 10ATM
• Sensor: 1/1.9" CMOS with 27.6 MP active pixels (5599x4927)
• Max video resolution: 5.3K (16:9) @ 60fps, 4K (16:9) @ 120fps, 2.7K (16:9) @ 240fps
• Max photo resolution: 27.13MP (5568x4872)
• Max screengrab from videos: 24.69MP from (8:7) 5.3K Video
• Maximum video bit rate: 120Mbps
• Built-in GPS: no
• Battery life: 70 minutes of continuous recording at 5.3K @ 60 fps

Design and build quality

GoPro is getting to the point where applying any physical changes to its action cameras is becoming more and more futile. One could say the brand perfected the action camera form. What I would say is that based on current technical limitations and the ergonomics of the human body, the GoPro Hero 12 Black is as good as it gets from a physical point of view.

Not surprisingly, it's like-for-like the same as its predecessor, the GoPro Hero 11 Black. Same dimensions, same weight, same sensors, same displays, same everything. The button layout is also the same; the only difference is the speckled cover of the camera and, of course, the large '12 BLACK' lettering on the side.

There is something new, however, the 1/4-20 mounting thread. Positioned between the two folding fingers at the bottom of the action camera, the new mounting option allows for more accessories to be used with the GoPro Hero 12 Black. To drive the message home, GoPro launched a 48-inch-long extension pole that collapses to just 10 inches alongside the new cam, designed to work with the new mounting threads.

The new thread is excellent as it allows content creators to mount the GoPro Hero 12 Black in even more ways. That said, It doesn't necessarily make sense to have this mounting option. You see, with 360-degree action cams, sticking the camera at the end of a selfie pole pointing away from the user is fine, as the camera sees the person just fine thanks to the overlapping, wide-angle lens positioned on each side.

The GoPro Hero 12 Black hasn't got this functionality, so if it's mounted on the end of a pole using the new thread, it won't be able to see you if you're holding the pole. This doesn't mean the new mounting option is useless – on the contrary. After all, different mounting options allow you to mount the camera in more ways, which helps unleash more creativity.

(New) features

An exciting new camera feature on the GoPro Hero 12 Black is the native vertical capture mode that allows you to shoot videos in a 9:16 ratio when mounted horizontally. This mode can be activated on the camera by tapping on the icon in the bottom right corner and using the slider on the screen.

You already had the ability to crop footage shot in a 4:3 ratio in the Quik app, but allowing people to do this directly on the cam shortens the process of getting the footage from the Hero 12 Black onto social media where vertical videos belong. 

Another big update is the high-definition range video that delivers greater detail and colour in highlights and is now available in 5.3K and 4K @ 60fps.

GoPro added wireless audio support for Apple AirPods and other Bluetooth audio devices such as earbuds, headphones and microphones, making it easier to shoot videos with voiceover on location. Bluetooth audio devices can also be used for issuing voice commands to control your Hero 12 Black from a distance, which is a heaven-sent for solo videographers.

Image stabilisation has also been revamped, although it was somewhat expected, as GoPro often updates its Hypersmooth algorithm when launching a new Hero model. The GoPro Hero 12 Black features the new HyperSmooth 6.0 image stabilisation with next-generation AutoBoost that automatically boosts video stabilisation while maintaining the smallest cropping margin possible with 'imperceptible' transitions between crop levels.

HyperSmooth 6.0 also enables horizon-leveling even with full 360° camera rotation in the Linear + Horizon Lock digital lens or in all lens settings when using the Max Lens Mod 2.0 accessory. In action, the footage captured with HyperSmooth 5.0 and HyperSmooth 6.0 is hard to distinguish unless you record the same footage from the same vantage points with both cameras simultaneously.

GoPro also added some professional features. New pro features include GP-Log with available LUTs for more control and colour grading in post-production and the ability to wireless timecode sync an unlimited number of Hero 12 Black cameras for easy multicamera editing with Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premier and other editing apps.

Battery life

The GoPro Hero 12 Black has twice the battery life of the Hero 11 Black, thanks to the redesigned power management system. The company also removed a potentially energy-intense feature – GPS – to enhance battery life even further.

"In GoPro's quest to provide the best battery runtimes possible, they found that less than 1% of GoPro users were actually applying GPS stickers to content," the brand told T3, "GPS was previously a feature that users were encouraged to switch off to achieve the best battery runtimes possible, so it was eliminated from HERO12 as one of the many steps taken to increase runtimes across the highest speeds and feeds."

The improved power management system delivers 70 minutes of continuous recording at 5.3K @ 60 fps (the highest performance setting), over 95 minutes at 5.3K at 30 fps and over 155 minutes of continuous recording at 1080p @ 30 fps, all with HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization on.

The most interesting thing about the battery life improvements is that the actual physical battery unit hasn't changed at all. GoPro 'simply' improved the way the camera uses the 1720mAh Enduro battery. Running the Hero 12 Black on the maximum resolution for a long will make the camera unit heat up, but as long as you use it where it's supposed to be used – outdoors, doing crazy shenanigans – this elevation in temperature shouldn't be an issue.

The GoPro Hero 12 Black's official recharge time from zero to 100% is around three hours (1A / 5W). There is a 'fast charging' option that replenishes the battery from zero to 80% in approximately two hours (3A / 15W).

Performance

Expecting the GoPro Hero 12 Black to perform any less impressive than the already capable Hero 11 Black would be foolish. All the predecessor's features are still present, and image stabilisation has been improved, as well as the onboard navigation, making it easier to capture amazing footage in situations where standard cameras or smartphones would struggle.

GoPro-style action cams are best used for high-speed activities, such as mountain biking, motocross, dirt racing, etc. Although GoPro leans into the selfie stick being fully visible in handheld shots, I think 360-degree action cameras are better suited for self-shot videos. GoPros are perfect POV footage in difficult situations where magnetic-mounted devices might struggle (e.g. Insta360 Go 3).

Thanks to the rugged body and water-tight construction of the GoPro Hero 12 Black, you'll never be afraid of getting it wet or accidentally dropping it, which is what you need when you're thundering down a mountainside with your mountain bike on fore whilst juggling bowling pins in your hands. The least you want in a situation like that is worrying about the action cam.

I love the crisp, high-definition look of the GoPro Hero 12 Black's videos. HDR video is new to the latest generation GoPro, and it suits the type of footage you most likely create with the Hero 12 Black. Pros might find it a bit too processed, but they can always fiddle with LUTs and whatnot in post. Us enthusiasts will appreciate a bit of on-camera processing that allows us to upload footage to social media instantly. 

Verdict

The GoPro Hero 12 Black delivers the exact experience I expected from the brand. The new iteration builds on the two decades' worth of innovation that made GoPro the premier action camera manufacturer and adds some exciting new features that will delight amateurs and pros alike.

Better still, the Hero 12 Black is sold for the same price the Hero 11 Black was sold for GoPro Members, but this time around, you don't need the membership to unlock the lower price. Essentially, you get a more competent action camera for no extra money. That's a pretty good deal, people!

Of the new features, the HDR video is probably the one that'll make most people happy. It helps those action shots pop a little bit more, making #shotonGoPro videos even more exciting to look at. Not to mention the ability to record vertical videos on the camera, allowing you to create attention-grabbing footage for social media without post-processing in the Quik app.

If you want the best action camera, you need the GoPro Hero 12 Black. Simple as that.

Also consider

Can't decide whether you want a traditional action camera or a 360° cam? The modular design of the Insta360 One RS allows you to reap the benefits of both shooting modes at an affordable price point. The 4K boost lens delivers excellent quality video and, alongside the existing 360 lens module, offers a well-rounded action camera package that delivers on all fronts. Read Mark's full Insta360 One RS Twin Edition review.

Another alternative to GoPro's Hero 12 Black is Insta360's latest action cam, the Ace Pro. It has all the ingredients of the best action cameras: premium optics, a large sensor, a variety of shooting modes, easy operation, and a game-changing display. Better still, it offers loads of unique editing options via the Insta360 smartphone app and the Insta360 Studio desktop app. Read my full Insta360 Ace Pro review.

With excellent image stabilisation, ease of use and a brilliant magnetic mounting system for accessories, the DJI Osmo Action 4 is an excellent rugged action camera that loses out to the likes of GoPro Hero 12 Black only in its lack of 5.7K video resolution. If that’s not important to you, then you’ll love the DJI Osmo Action 4. Read Jamie's full DJI Osmo Action 4 review.