Every year, GoPro shakes up the action cam market. In 2025, the GoPro Max 2 vs. GoPro Hero 13 Black duel rages on: on one side, a true 8K 360° camera, on the other, a compact and versatile 5.3K action cam. But should you buy now or wait until the Hero 14 is released?
So, many are asking the question: should we fall for this GoPro Max 2 and dive into immersive capture, stick with the sure thing that is the GoPro Hero 13 Black , or wait a little longer for the Hero 14 which will eventually arrive?
I suggest we break this all down together, comparing these two models and looking ahead to what the next generation might offer.
GoPro Max 2: the 360° revolution in true 8K
The GoPro Max 2 is THE big new product of the year. GoPro already tried its hand at 360° in 2019 with the first Max, but this time, it’s taking it to the next level.
True 8K, no cheating
The GoPro Max 2 ‘s greatest asset is its ability to shoot 8K30 in 360° . And when we say 8K, we mean true 8K: no stretched pixels or artificial intelligence filling in the gaps. The result is a detailed image that’s far sharper than what some competitors have to offer.
It also offers smoother modes, with 5.6K at 60 fps or 4K at 100 fps . Enough to capture impressive immersive slow motion, especially for action scenes.
Designed for demanding creators
With the GoPro Max 2 , you no longer have to worry about framing while filming. You film everything around you and then reframe it in the GoPro Quik app. Want a POV, a selfie shot, or even a panorama? You can do it all in one shot.
On the color side, GoPro has added some serious features: 10-bit recording, GP-Log profile, and the ability to use LUTs directly in the camera. A real plus for editors who want great flexibility in post-production.
A robust and practical design
The GoPro Max 2 has the classic GoPro compact look, but with two large, curved lenses, typical of 360° cameras. The good news is that they’re easily interchangeable , with no need for recalibration. If you fall, you don’t lose your entire camera, just a lens that you can replace yourself.
Another advantage is the audio component. The GoPro Max 2 features six microphones distributed around the body, which improves sound spatialization. It’s even compatible with AirPods and Bluetooth microphones for remote control or cleaner recordings.
Finally, like any self-respecting GoPro, it is waterproof up to 5 m without a housing , and much more with a dedicated housing.
The limits
The GoPro Max 2 is impressive, but it has some limitations. It’s heavier than a classic Hero (nearly 200g), and most importantly, in single-lens mode, it’s limited to 60 fps. No 120 fps for those who love classic super slow motion. It’s also more expensive, with a price tag of €520 .
GoPro Hero 13 Black: a sure bet for creators
Opposite, we find the GoPro Hero 13 Black , released in September 2024, and which remains an absolute reference for creators.
A classic but ultra-effective action cam
With its compact sensor, the GoPro Hero 13 Black films in 5.3K at 60 fps and captures 27 MP photos. This is more modest than the Max 2 on paper, but sufficient for 99% of uses, whether vlogging, sports or travel.
It relies primarily on HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization , which remains the best for classic action videos. Even when running or mountain biking, your footage comes out incredibly smooth, as if you had a professional stabilizer.
Proven design and better battery life
The GoPro Hero 13 Black retains the iconic Hero design: compact, rugged, and waterproof to 10m without a housing . It also features the new 1900mAh Enduro battery, which holds up better in the cold and offers a longer battery life than previous models.
Connectivity-wise, it’s up to date with Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 for fast transfers.
Interchangeable modules for more creativity
A big new feature on the GoPro Hero 13 Black is compatibility with interchangeable lenses :
- an ultra-wide-angle module for landscapes and action,
- a macro module for close-ups,
- ND filters to manage light and give a cinematic look.
This gives real flexibility, especially for creators who like to vary their shots.
The limits
The GoPro Hero 13 Black uses the same sensor as the Hero 12 and Hero 11. In low light, even though Night mode helps a lot, we feel that the sensor is reaching its limits. For fans of night scenes or concerts, this can be a weak point.
Price-wise, it is more affordable than the GoPro Max 2 , at around €449 .
Should we wait for the GoPro Hero 14?
The real question is: isn’t it better to wait another year for the Hero 14 Black to arrive?
Traditionally, GoPro releases its new Hero in September. But in 2025, the brand broke the rhythm to give full spotlight to the GoPro Max 2 . We can therefore logically expect to see the Hero 14 arrive in 2026 .
What could we hope for?
- Better low-light performance with a revised sensor,
- Further extended autonomy,
- HyperSmooth 7.0 stabilization,
- Maybe a switch to 6K or even an 8K mode on the classic action cam.
If you already have a Hero 12 or 13 and can wait, waiting for the Hero 14 might make sense. But if you want to upgrade now, you’ll have to choose between the classic reliability of the GoPro Hero 13 Black and the immersive newness of the GoPro Max 2 .
GoPro Hero 13 Black
Meet the GoPro Hero 13 Black : ultra-detailed 5.3K video, HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization and improved Enduro battery life. A rugged and versatile action cam for all your adventures.
Buy on AmazonComparison table GoPro Max 2 vs GoPro Hero 13 Black
| Characteristics | GoPro Max 2 | GoPro Hero 13 Black |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Immersive 360° camera | Classic action cam |
| Video Resolution | 8K30 / 5.6K60 / 4K100 | 5.3K60 / 4K120 |
| Photo | 29 MP (360°) | 27 MP |
| Stabilization | HyperSmooth Max (360°) | HyperSmooth 6.0 |
| Audio | 6 microphones + AirPods | 3 microphones |
| Airtightness | 5 m (without box) | 10 m (without housing) |
| Weight | 195 g | 159 g |
| Price | ~520 € | ~449 € |
So, which one to choose?
Actually, it mostly depends on your creative style.
- If you want to dive into the world of immersive 360° video , with new perspectives, unlimited cropping, and ultra-creative editing, the GoPro Max 2 is clearly the camera for you. It’s a new playground, especially for those who want to stand out with innovative content.
- If you’re looking for a compact, reliable action cam that can handle anything, with solid battery life and great versatility thanks to interchangeable lenses, the GoPro Hero 13 Black remains the best choice today.
- Finally, if you’re the type who absolutely wants the latest generation , then patience will be your best friend. The Hero 14 Black should arrive with its share of new features, probably as early as fall 2026.
And you, do you choose 360° versatility or classic reliability?
In short: the GoPro Max 2 innovates, the GoPro Hero 13 Black reassures, and the Hero 14 is long overdue. The real question is, above all, your use: do you want to have fun with effects and angles impossible to obtain otherwise? GoPro Max 2. Do you want a robust and proven camera for your daily adventure? GoPro Hero 13 Black .
So, tell me: are you more of a 360° immersion team or a traditional action cam team ?
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