The GoPro Hero 13 Black is the newer model and the Hero 12 Black is its direct predecessor, so the two cameras share much of their design and feel. Choose the Hero 13 Black if you want the latest accessory options and are buying new; keep or choose the Hero 12 Black if it already does what you need. Confirm the exact differences on GoPro’s pages, as we are not quoting numbers here. We have not used these cameras ourselves.
How Close Are They?
Successive GoPro Hero models usually look alike and use the same menu style, the same app and the same family of mounts. That means switching between them is easy, and many accessories carry over.
The newer model typically adds refinements instead of a complete redesign. Those can include changes to accessory options, battery handling and attachments, so check which of those matter to your shooting.
What to Compare
| Area | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Battery | Run time and whether old batteries still fit |
| Mounting system | Whether your current mounts and cases carry over |
| Lens options | Whether add-on lenses are supported |
| Video modes | Resolution and frame rate choices for your projects |
| Software | Features arriving through app and firmware updates |
Who Should Upgrade?
Reasons to move up
- You use accessories that only fit the newer model.
- You hit the limits of your current camera, such as battery life or a specific video mode.
- You are buying your first GoPro and want the current model.
Reasons to stay put
- You are happy with your footage and have no workflow problems.
- Your mounts, cases and batteries are all for the older model.
- Your projects do not need new features.
Switching Steps and Spares
- Update the firmware on the camera you own.
- Copy any footage you want to keep to a computer or cloud service.
- Check which of your batteries, cases and mounts fit the new camera.
- Format the memory card in the new camera before first use.
If you do move to the newer camera, you can often sell or pass on the older one, along with its cases and mounts, to a friend or fellow hobbyist. Keeping the older camera as a backup or as a second angle for multi-camera shoots is another sensible use, because both models share a similar menu and app.
Before you decide, write down the two or three things you wish your current camera did better. If the newer model addresses them, upgrading is easy to justify. If it does not, your time is better spent on practice and on better mounting.
FAQ
Can I use the same memory card?
Generally yes, as long as the card meets the requirements on GoPro’s page. Format it in the new camera.
Will my Hero 12 accessories fit?
Many GoPro mounts are shared across models, but confirm each item on the maker’s page.
The Short Version
The two are close relatives. Choose the Hero 13 Black for the newest options when buying new, and stay with the Hero 12 Black when it meets your needs. Check GoPro’s pages for a full difference list.
