GoPro was once the king of action cameras, but in 2025, things have changed. The company is no longer dominating the market as it once did. With growing competition from DJI, Insta360, and even cheaper brands, GoPro has seen a drop in its market share. Many users now look elsewhere for newer features, better pricing, or more compact designs. While GoPro still holds strong brand recognition, it’s clear that the company is under pressure to innovate and stay relevant.
To make a comeback, GoPro is expected to launch several updated cameras this year. These include upgrades to their Hero and Max lines. With improvements in video quality, smarter software tools, and better battery life, the company hopes to attract new users and longtime fans. These new cameras are GoPro’s way of showing that it still has something unique to offer in a crowded space.
This article will look at everything we know about GoPro’s upcoming cameras in 2025. We’ll talk about the Hero 14 Black, the Max 2, the current Hero 13 Black, the smaller GoPro Hero model, and the updated Max from early 2025. Each of these cameras has something special to offer. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s something for everyone. We’ll also compare them to their main rivals and explain what makes them stand out. Let’s explore what GoPro has planned for the year.
Mason knows photography inside and out. With 15 years of hands-on experience, he’s written about cameras, lenses, and gear of all kinds. He even spent five years as a journalist, diving deep into music and writing sharp, engaging stories. Now, Mason shares his photography knowledge, helping readers find the right gear and perfect their skills. He’s also proud of his unbeatable Wordle streak!
GoPro Hero 14 Black
The GoPro Hero 14 Black is expected to be GoPro’s main camera for 2025. This will be the newest version in the popular Hero line, and it’s likely to launch around September or October. That’s when GoPro usually releases its top cameras each year. Many people are excited about what this new camera will offer.
One of the biggest rumored features is improved video recording. The Hero 14 Black may be able to shoot 5.3K video at 240 frames per second. That’s double the frame rate of the Hero 13 at the same resolution. It means super smooth slow-motion videos, even in high detail. There’s also talk that it might support 8K video. While that may only work at lower frame rates, it would still be a huge step forward.
GoPro might include a larger image sensor, which helps the camera capture more light and detail. This means your videos will look better when shooting in dark places or during the evening. New noise reduction software is also expected, making night shots clearer and smoother.
The Hero 14 may have built-in Bluetooth for wireless microphones. Right now, many users have to buy extra gear to get good sound. With Bluetooth built in, recording voice or sound from a distance becomes much easier.
The Hero 14 might come with a bigger 2100mAh Enduro battery. This could give you more recording time and better performance in hot or cold weather. For outdoor lovers, that’s a huge help.
AI-powered features may be added too. These could include smart auto-editing, better subject tracking, and even live highlights. These tools would help people share videos quickly without spending hours editing.
At around $400 to $450, the Hero 14 Black would be priced similarly to the Hero 13 at launch. Compared to cameras like the DJI Action 2 or the Canon EOS R5 C, the Hero 14 focuses more on being easy to carry and use. While Canon’s R5 C is made for professionals and costs much more, GoPro offers top features in a small and rugged package. The DJI Action 2 is smaller but doesn’t match the Hero 14’s rumored power and quality. If GoPro adds all the new features, the Hero 14 Black could be one of the best action cameras ever made.
GoPro Max 2
The GoPro Max 2 is one of the most exciting upcoming products in 2025. GoPro has already confirmed that this next-gen 360 camera will launch in mid-July. That makes it one of the most certain releases of the year. The original Max was known for its 360-degree video recording and fun editing tools, and this new version promises to be much better.
The Max 2 is expected to record in up to 9.3K resolution. That’s a big jump from the old model’s 5.6K. With better sensors borrowed from the Hero 12 and Hero 13, the new Max will produce sharper and more detailed video from every angle. For people who want to capture everything around them, this is a huge win.
Stabilization is also getting better. GoPro’s electronic image stabilization is already great, but the Max 2 could take it further. Even if you’re running, biking, or climbing, the footage will look smooth and steady. This makes it ideal for sports, travel, and action scenes.
A major upgrade could be automatic reframing. This means the camera can choose the best angles for you while filming. Later, you can also adjust the shot using AI tools. This saves a lot of editing time and makes the camera easier for beginners.
The Max 2 will likely have a larger battery, helping you record longer without changing power. It will also support the common ¼-20 tripod mount. That means you can use it with many standard tripods and mounts without buying new gear.
The expected price is around $599. It will compete directly with the Insta360 X5, which also records high-quality 360 video. Insta360’s cameras are known for cool features and app support, but GoPro offers stronger build quality and easier software. If you already use GoPro accessories or the Quik app, the Max 2 might be the better choice. It offers more detail, smarter tools, and longer recording times.
GoPro Hero 13 Black
The GoPro Hero 13 Black came out in September 2024. It’s the current flagship camera and still one of the best action cameras on the market. It has many high-end features and is a solid choice for most people. Even though new models are coming, the Hero 13 is still a great option in 2025.
The camera records in 5.3K at 120 frames per second and 4K at 240fps. That means you get very sharp video with smooth slow-motion playback. Whether you’re capturing sports, pets, or landscapes, your footage will look clean and clear.
The Hero 13 uses a 1/1.9-inch CMOS sensor, which gives it great image quality. Colors look natural, and there’s lots of detail even in tricky lighting. It also has dual-channel audio and works with Bluetooth microphones. Your sound will be better, especially in noisy places.
Another cool feature is support for lens mods. You can use macro lenses for close-up shots or anamorphic lenses for wide, cinematic videos. This makes the Hero 13 more flexible than earlier versions.
The camera comes with HyperSmooth 5.0 and Horizon Lock. These tools keep your video steady and level, even during wild activities. You won’t need a gimbal or extra stabilizer.
It also uses a 1900mAh Enduro battery that lasts longer and handles extreme temperatures well. With Wi-Fi 6, you can transfer your videos faster to your phone or cloud storage.
At $399, the Hero 13 Black competes with the DJI Osmo Action 2 and Insta360 ONE R. The DJI Action 2 is small and modular, but the Hero 13 offers better stability and is easier to use. The Insta360 ONE R is flexible, but the Hero 13 feels tougher and more user-friendly. It’s still a strong option for anyone who wants a powerful, reliable camera.
GoPro Hero (Mini Model)
In late 2024, GoPro released a new smaller camera called the GoPro Hero. It’s designed for people who want something very compact and easy to use. This camera is not a replacement for the Hero Black series, but a simpler and more affordable option.
The GoPro Hero is 35% smaller and 46% lighter than the main GoPro models. It’s small enough to fit in a pocket or clip onto a bag. You can take it anywhere, which is perfect for travel, vlogging, or quick action shots.
It still shoots 4K video at 30fps, which is more than enough for everyday recording. It also supports 2.7K at 60fps, so you can get smoother slow-motion video. Even with its small size, it gives you great video quality.
One of its best features is the built-in battery. It can last up to 155 minutes when recording at 1080p. That’s great for longer activities where you don’t want to carry extra batteries. The camera is also waterproof up to 16 feet and built to handle drops and rough use.
It works with all standard GoPro mounts. That means you can use it with gear you already have. No need to buy new accessories.
The price is just $199, making it a good choice for people on a budget. It competes with cheaper action cams like the Akaso Brave 8 and DJI Osmo Action 4 Lite. While those cameras are decent, the GoPro Hero offers better build quality and easier software. It’s a great starter camera for anyone new to action video.
GoPro Max (2025 Refresh)
In February 2025, GoPro quietly updated its older Max 360 camera. This refreshed version keeps the name GoPro Max but adds new features and improvements. It’s aimed at people who want 360 video without paying for the latest Max 2.
The refreshed Max now records in 5.6K resolution. That’s better than the older model and gives sharper, more colorful footage. It’s still great for immersive videos where you want to capture everything around you.
The new Enduro battery is 22.5% larger, which means you can record for longer. This is great for full-day trips or events where you don’t want to stop and recharge.
It now supports the ¼-20 tripod mount as well. This change makes it easier to use with regular accessories and adds more flexibility.
The Quik app has also been improved. It now includes object tracking and smart editing tools powered by AI. This helps users focus on creating rather than spending hours editing clips.
Priced at $349, the updated Max is cheaper than the new Max 2 but still very capable. It competes with the Insta360 X4. Insta360’s app is slightly better, but GoPro’s camera is simpler to use and more rugged. For those on a budget or looking for a second camera, the updated Max is a smart choice.
Conclusion
GoPro’s upcoming releases in 2025 show that the company is trying hard to regain its place in the competitive action camera market. With the Hero 14 Black, Max 2, and updates to both the Hero and Max lines, GoPro is clearly pushing to offer better video quality, more AI tools, and longer battery life. These features are aimed at keeping up with what users now expect from high-performance action cameras.
However, the road ahead won’t be easy. GoPro is no longer the clear leader it once was. Strong rivals like DJI and Insta360 are gaining attention for offering better value or unique features. To succeed, GoPro needs to prove that its products not only meet today’s demands but also bring something fresh and useful to the table. Whether the new 2025 lineup can truly shift the company’s position remains to be seen, but it’s clear that GoPro is fighting to stay in the game.
More camera rumors: • Canon Rumors • Nikon rumors • Sony rumors • Fuji Rumors • Panasonic rumors • Olympus Rumors • Leica rumors • Ricoh & Pentax rumors • DJI Rumors