When it comes to action cameras, two names always stand out: GoPro and DJI. Both brands have long been at the forefront of innovation, and with their latest models—GoPro Hero 13 and DJI Action 5 Pro—they’re continuing that trend. In this review, I’m comparing both cameras to see which one is best for action and FPV drone applications. Whether you’re looking for the best image quality, battery life, or stabilization, I’ll break down all the key aspects of both cameras to help you decide which one is right for you.
Learn more about action cameras for FPV drones here: https://oscarliang.com/action-camera/
Table of Contents
Where to Buy
DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Camera:
- AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DeuhEBn
- GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-s1qc
- RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-wqaj
- Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Y3TyMJ
GoPro Hero 13 Camera:
- Amazon: https://amzn.to/3TSMOyD
- AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DDypZRT
Image Quality
Let’s begin with image quality.
The GoPro Hero 13 boasts a maximum resolution of 5.3K, while the DJI Action 5 Pro tops out at 4K. On paper, GoPro’s higher resolution might seem like a big advantage, but for most users, 4K is more than enough. Both cameras deliver sharp, impressive footage, and unless you’re pushing for extreme detail, the difference in resolution may not be a dealbreaker.
In terms of color profiles, there are significant differences. The GoPro’s log profile is incredibly flat, offering more flexibility in post-processing. However, straight out of the camera, GoPro footage tends to look washed out compared to the DJI Action 5 Pro, which delivers richer colors even in its log profile. DJI’s D-Log M provides a more natural look with minimal editing. If you’re focused on extensive color grading, GoPro might be the better choice. However, if you want excellent footage right out of the camera for Instagram or other social media, DJI might be the better choice.
Further reading: How to color grade FPV footage?
When comparing flat color profiles, DJI footage appears more natural and realistic. DJI has an advantage in dynamic range due to its larger image sensor, retaining more detail in both highlights and shadows compared to the GoPro Hero 13. For FPV footage, DJI offers greater depth and superior dynamic range.
One advantage of the GoPro is its ability to record at 400fps at 720p, while the highest the DJI can do is 240fps at 1080p. So, for slow-motion footage, GoPro holds an edge.
Low Light Performance
On paper, the GoPro Hero 13 features a 1/1.9″ sensor, while the DJI Action 5 Pro comes with a larger 1/1.3″ sensor, giving the DJI an inherent advantage for low-light performance.
Coupled with the face that the DJI has a maximum ISO of 25,600 (compared to GoPro’s 6,400), it’s far better equipped for nighttime footage. GoPro’s low-light shots tend to be darker and noisier, while the DJI consistently delivers clearer and brighter images, even without its dedicated night mode. When DJI’s night mode is activated, it applies automatic noise reduction and further boosts the ISO, making it significantly superior for low-light environments. Unfortunately, GoPro lacks a dedicated night mode, making it the weaker option for this type of shooting.
Bitrate
Many users have commented on DJI reducing the bitrate on the Action 5 Pro, which maxes out at 100Mbps, compared to the GoPro Hero 13’s 120Mbps. With GoPro Labs, users can even increase the maximum bitrate of the GoPro Hero 13 up to 200Mbps. DJI’s reasoning for the lower bitrate is to keep file sizes manageable and extend battery life, though it’s possible they might introduce a higher bitrate option in future firmware updates. As it stands, GoPro takes the lead in this category.
While higher bitrates are typically associated with improved image quality, that’s not always the case. Factors like lighting conditions and YouTube compression can influence the final image quality. So, in practical use, you might not notice a significant difference between the two cameras. However, the higher bitrate options on the GoPro provide more flexibility for users who need it.
Weight and Size
For FPV drone pilots, every gram counts. The GoPro Hero 13, including battery and micro SD card, weighs 157g, while the DJI Action 5 Pro is slightly lighter at 144g. While a 13g difference might not sound like much, it can noticeably impact flight handling and flight time in FPV applications. For pilots focused on weight, especially when mounting cameras on drones, the DJI Action 5 Pro takes the edge.
In terms of physical design, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is more compact and has a smaller footprint than the GoPro Hero 13. It also features a larger back screen with slim bezels, offering a more modern look compared to GoPro’s dated, thicker bezels. The DJI’s front screen is OLED and fully functional, allowing you to adjust settings and view live footage, while GoPro’s front screen is more limited in functionality. However the GoPro maintains the same dimensions which means you can use TPU mounts for previous models on your drone.
DJI’s magnetic mounts make accessory switching seamless—whether you’re attaching the camera to a drone or a selfie stick, it’s quick and hassle-free. In contrast, GoPro relies on its traditional mounting fingers, which require screws and feel a bit outdated. However, for FPV drones, I personally prefer GoPro’s mounting fingers, as they provide a more secure hold. That said, if you’re using a 3D-printed TPU mount for your drone, the type of built-in mount may not make much of a difference.
Battery Life
While both cameras have similarly sized batteries (GoPro Hero 13 with 1900mAh and DJI Action 5 Pro with 1950mAh), their recording times vary significantly. The DJI Action 5 Pro can record for over 180 minutes in 4K, almost double the GoPro’s 110 minutes. This difference may stem from DJI’s bitrate cap or a more efficient chipset.
For FPV pilots, the shorter recording time of the GoPro isn’t a major drawback, as FPV drone flights are typically quite short, and you can change battery between flights. However, for longer continuous recording sessions, the DJI Action 5 Pro clearly wins.
One thing to note is that the GoPro Hero 13 requires its proprietary battery, whereas the DJI Action 5 Pro is compatible with older batteries, such as those from the Action 4. This offers DJI users more flexibility in battery choices, while GoPro users must purchase new batteries specifically for the Hero 13.
FPV Footage and Stabilization
Both the GoPro Hero 13 and DJI Action 5 Pro excel at capturing FPV drone footage, but their stabilization technologies set them apart. GoPro’s HyperSmooth stabilization works impressively well but shows noticeable warping at the edges when using ultra-wide settings, particularly when flying, where the footage can appear wavy at the edges. DJI’s Rocksteady, by contrast, delivers smoother footage with less edge distortion.
A plus for both cameras is their support for Gyroflow, an open-source video stabilization software, which offers even more control in post. When properly stabilized using Gyroflow, footage from both cameras becomes comparable in terms of smoothness.
User experience
One advantage of the DJI Action 5 Pro is its built-in 47GB of storage, providing extra flexibility. GoPro users must rely entirely on external memory, like micro SD cards, which means forgetting your card could leave you going home empty-handed. DJI’s internal storage offers a fallback option to ensure you always leave with some footage. Transferring videos off the DJI’s internal storage is also way quicker than any SD cards, so if you are just filming a small amount of footage, you might not even want to use an SD card with the DJI.
Further reading: how to choose SD card?
The user interface in the DJI feels more simplistic and fool proof than the GoPro – the menu navigation is more streamlined and optimized. But if you are used to using the GoPro I am sure it’s not an issue at all. But the DJI’s UI does feel more fluid and responsive, while the GoPro feels a bit more slow and laggy.
In extreme temperature handling, the DJI Action 5 Pro also has the upper hand. It operates in temperatures ranging from -20°C to 45°C, while the GoPro Hero 13 only functions between -10°C and 35°C. This makes the DJI Action 5 Pro more resilient to overheating and better suited for cold-weather filming.
Both cameras are waterproof right out of the box. The GoPro Hero 13 is waterproof up to 10 meters, whereas the DJI Action 5 Pro is waterproof up to 20 meters. Additionally, the Action 5 Pro includes depth gauges and features tailored for scuba divers, making it more versatile for underwater adventures.
Audio Quality
For most FPV drone pilots, audio quality isn’t a top priority, as the primary sound captured during flight is motor noise. However, some users do care about how their drone’s motors sound in playback, so audio quality can matter to them.
It’s worth noting that both the DJI Action 5 Pro and GoPro Hero 13 offer noise reduction in windy conditions, which can be helpful.
In terms of everyday use, the DJI Action 5 Pro has noticeably clearer and crisper sound compared to the GoPro Hero 13, thanks to its multiple microphones strategically placed around the camera to capture a fuller range of audio. While neither camera can replace an external microphone for high-quality audio, both allow external audio sources to be paired with them.
For capturing motor noise during FPV flights, both cameras perform adequately.
Pricing
When it comes to pricing, DJI offers better value for money. The Osmo Action 5 Pro standard combo starts at $349 and includes the camera, a protective cage, a magnetic mount, and more. In comparison, GoPro’s standard bundle is priced higher at $399.99 and comes with the camera, one battery, and a couple of basic mounts.
GoPro does offer a subscription service for unlimited cloud storage and damage replacement, but the additional costs can add up quickly.
Naked Version Possibility
Stripping down an action camera—known as “naked” in the FPV community—can drastically reduce its weight to around 30 to 40 grams. This weight reduction, often over 100 grams, is a significant advantage for FPV drones, allowing smaller aircraft to carry a GoPro. The “naked GoPro” has been a popular DIY hack for years, and manufacturers have even created custom cases for these stripped-down cameras.
Check out Flywoo’s Naked GoPro 9: https://oscarliang.com/flywoo-naked-gopro-v2/
There are aftermarket naked GoPro cases available from GoPro Hero 6 to Hero 12, it’s very likely that a naked GoPro Hero 13 will be available soon. On the other hand, there hasn’t been any commercially available naked version of the DJI Osmo Action cameras on the market yet, making GoPro the more likely option for those looking for this lightweight modification.
Final Verdict: GoPro Hero 13 or DJI Action 5 Pro?
Before 2020, GoPro was the clear leader in action cameras for FPV drones. However, in recent years, DJI has significantly closed the gap, making it harder to recommend one over the other.
If you prioritize the best log profile and the most flexibility in post-production and color grading, the GoPro Hero 13 is your best bet. Its flat color profile offers plenty of room for tweaking colors to your liking.
Get the GoPro Hero 13 Camera here:
- Amazon: https://amzn.to/3TSMOyD
- AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DDypZRT
For everything else, I’d recommend the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro. It’s lighter, has a more modern design, boasts significantly longer battery life, and delivers impressive results straight out of the box with minimal effort. Its stabilization is top-tier, the audio quality is clearer, and it handles dynamic range and low-light situations slightly better than the GoPro. Plus, it’s slightly cheaper.
Get the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro Camera here
- AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DeuhEBn
- GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-s1qc
- RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-wqaj
- Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Y3TyMJ
Ultimately, both cameras are excellent choices for content creators, but your specific needs will determine the best fit for you.
5 comments
Hast anyone an Idea if the TPU Case for the hero12 will fit the hero13? I am having a hard time to find a bandoproof TPU Case for the 13
They have the same dimensions so should fit.
The 5.3k is a big advantage when you are stabilizing in Gyroflow. You can shoot in 5.3k, then after gyroflow is done, your output is still a true 4k. If you input 4k into gyroflow then there is a lot of stretching going on if you are outputting 4k. Basically it has to up res each frame a little which is never good.
GoPro 13 has a magnetic mount as an option, better than DJIs since you can mount it both ways.
Yes, but the DJI’s magnets are a lot stronger, I wouldn’t really trust using GoPro’s magnetic mounting on drones.