HERO13: Does it really last longer? The definitive test
GoPro introduced the HERO13 by emphasizing the longer life of the new 1900 mAh Enduro battery, which promises a runtime of over 2.5 hours of continuous recording at 1080p30.
I decided to verify these claims with a comparative test between the HERO11, HERO12, and HERO13, using new batteries and the same settings for all. To ensure better cooling, I removed the battery door from each camera.
The first test was conducted by pushing the cameras to their limits, with the typical settings for my dives (GoPro UW Setting) and the main GoPro Labs features active.
As I expected, this test turned out to be more of an indication of overheating speed than of duration. The HERO11 and HERO13 both shut down due to excessive temperature after about 14 minutes, with 83% and 77% battery remaining, respectively. The HERO12 lasted until the 16-minute mark, turning off with 66% charge. This is a clear sign of how important it is, especially when diving where the housing further limits heat dissipation, to use the record button sparingly.
Once the cameras cooled down, I ran a second test, this time setting the performance to a minimum: 1080p at 30fps with Protune turned off. I noticed a difference right from the start: the HERO13 started with a solid 100% charge, while its older siblings, despite the charger indicating a full charge, showed the usual and unexplainable 3-4% less.
The HERO11 was the first to die, at 2:04. The HERO12 followed shortly after, ending its runtime at 2:20. The HERO13, however, kept its promise, lasting until just a few seconds before the stated 2.5 hours. My results therefore confirm the promised duration, although the improvement over the HERO12 is not that significant. The next test will focus on charging speed, a crucial factor for those who, like on liveaboards, have to deal with continuous repetitive dives.
