Action Camera Showdown 2025: GoPro Hero 13 vs DJI Osmo Action 5 vs Insta360 Ace Pro – Which Reigns Supreme?

Overview: The New Flagship Action Cams

The action camera market has never been more competitive. Three flagship models now lead the pack: GoPro’s Hero 13 Black, DJI’s Osmo Action 5 Pro, and Insta360’s Ace Pro. Each was released in late 2024 as the latest evolution of their respective lineups, bringing cutting-edge features and improvements. GoPro’s Hero 13 Black launched in September 2024 as the successor to the Hero12 Black newsshooter.com newsshooter.com. DJI answered days later with the Osmo Action 5 Pro, positioning it squarely against the Hero13 Black techradar.com techradar.com. Meanwhile, Insta360 – known for 360º cameras – expanded into the traditional action cam format with the Ace Pro in mid-2024 petapixel.com petapixel.com. These releases raised the bar: “the recent release of the GoPro 13 Black has raised the bar for image quality and functionality. Another contender, the Insta360 Ace Pro, is also in the pipeline, promising innovative features,” noted one industry watcher 360rumors.com. Below, we’ll compare each camera’s highlights and see how they stack up.

GoPro Hero 13 Black – Flagship Redesigned

GoPro’s Hero 13 Black continues GoPro’s legacy with a familiar body but meaningful upgrades. It retains the same 1/1.9-inch 27MP sensor and max video resolutions as the Hero12 (up to 5.3K at 60fps and 4K at 120fps) newsshooter.com newsshooter.com. However, GoPro introduced High Dynamic Range (HDR) video and photo capture and a new HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization for even steadier footage newsshooter.com newsshooter.com. A headline feature is the new HB-Series interchangeable lens system – four swappable lens mods (Ultra Wide 177° FOV, Macro, Anamorphic, and ND filter set) that the Hero13 auto-detects and optimizes settings for investor.gopro.com investor.gopro.com. This modular lens ecosystem dramatically expands creative possibilities. “With the new ND filters and Macro lens mod, the HERO13 ventures into much more cinematic territory than other action cameras,” writes GearJunkie gearjunkie.com. These lenses enable ultra-wide POV shots, true optical macro focus, cinematic anamorphic widescreen, and motion blur effects with ND filters – broadening the GoPro’s capabilities significantly gearjunkie.com.

GoPro also overhauled mounting and power. The Hero 13 introduces a “Snap and Go” magnetic latch mount in addition to the built-in folding fingers and a new 1/4-20 tripod thread on the camera’s base investor.gopro.com newsshooter.com. This triple mounting system gives users more flexibility – you can quickly snap the GoPro onto magnetic mounts or use standard tripod screws, reducing the need for cages or adapters. Powerwise, a redesigned Enduro battery with 1,900mAh capacity (about 10% larger than before) improves runtimes and thermal performance investor.gopro.com. GoPro claims longer recording times in all conditions, addressing past overheating issues. Other new perks include built-in GPS with performance stickers (for telemetry overlays), Wi-Fi 6 for faster transfers, and Bluetooth audio support so you can use wireless mics or earbuds directly investor.gopro.com. Despite many internal similarities to its predecessor, the Hero 13 feels like a more versatile tool. As one reviewer noted after testing, “the HERO13 presents itself as a clear jump-up in quality… thanks to its new lenses,” elevating the GoPro into more cinematic territory while maintaining its core ruggedness gearjunkie.com.

Release context: The Hero 13 Black hit retail in September 2024 at a launch price of $399 (the same as the Hero12’s debut) newsshooter.com. It’s offered standalone or in bundles like the Creator Edition (with the Volta grip, Media Mod, etc.). GoPro also introduced a smaller sibling, the $199 Hero (2024), but the Hero 13 Black remains the flagship investor.gopro.com. It’s backwards-compatible with many Hero9/10/11/12 accessories (e.g. Media Mod, mounts), ensuring existing GoPro users can upgrade seamlessly. Overall, the Hero 13 Black embodies GoPro’s “if it ain’t broke…” design philosophy while layering on new features requested by the GoPro community – from lens mods to magnetic mounting and improved battery life investor.gopro.com investor.gopro.com.

DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro – A Potent GoPro Rival

DJI’s Osmo Action 5 Pro (often just called Action 5) is DJI’s “pro” take on the action cam, and it directly targets GoPro’s crown. Debuting in September 2024, the Action 5 Pro builds on the solid foundation of 2023’s Action 4 but brings major upgrades. It uses DJI’s next-gen 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor – physically much larger than GoPro’s (about 10×7.5mm vs 6.3×5.5mm) – which captures 40 Megapixel stills and improved low-light video with a claimed 13.5 stops of dynamic range wired.com theverge.com. In practice, this means sharper detail and cleaner footage in dark scenes. Notably, the sensor resolution jump (from Action 4’s 10MP to ~40MP) allows “a leap from 10MP to 40MP stills” and higher digital zoom without quality loss techradar.com. The Action 5 tops out at 4K 120fps video (both 16:9 and 4:3 modes) and can even do a pseudo-960fps ultra slow-motion (achieved by intelligent frame interpolation from 240fps footage) theverge.com. It also records 10-bit color and offers D-Log M for color grading, matching GoPro’s HDR/HLG capabilities.

DJI significantly addressed battery life – a traditional GoPro weakness. The Osmo Action 5 Pro boasts a high-capacity 1,950mAh battery, and thanks to a new efficient 4nm chipset, it achieves extraordinary endurance. In lab tests, DJI touts up to 4 hours of continuous recording on one charge (albeit at 1080p/24fps with screens off) theverge.com theverge.com. Real-world 4K usage yields shorter times, but still far exceeds GoPro. “It can shoot well over two hours at 4K/60fps…far and away the longest run time of any action camera I’ve ever tested,” says WIRED wired.com. This industry-leading battery life means fewer swaps and the ability to capture extended activities (long bike rides, time-lapses, etc.) without missing moments. Additionally, the battery is backward-compatible with the Action 4, and vice versa, which is great for existing DJI users wired.com wired.com.

Physically, the Action 5 Pro looks similar to its predecessor – a compact, rubberized block that’s slightly smaller and lighter than the GoPro wired.com. It retains DJI’s handy magnetic quick-release mounting system, allowing effortless snap-in attachment to mounts (and the frame supports both horizontal and vertical mounting) wired.com. However, DJI upgraded the displays: both the front and rear screens are now larger, bright OLED touchscreens with slimmer bezels theverge.com. These vivid OLED screens remain visible even under sunlight, improving the framing experience for both front-facing vlogging and rear controls wired.com. Under the hood, DJI added features like a built-in pressure sensor (it will display your dive depth or altitude – a useful perk for divers, skydivers, or hikers) wired.com, and 47GB of internal storage so you can capture footage even without an SD card in a pinch theverge.com. That internal memory holds roughly an hour of 4K video, providing a safety net if your card fills up or is forgotten wired.com. The Action 5 Pro also natively supports DJI’s wireless Mic 2 system: you can pair two DJI clip-on microphones directly for high-quality audio – a big win for creators who record dialogues or narration wired.com.

Release & price: The Osmo Action 5 Pro launched at $349 (Standard Combo kit) in fall 2024, undercutting the GoPro theverge.com. For that price it includes a protective frame, one battery, and basic mounts, while an Adventure Combo (with extra batteries, charger, selfie stick) was about $449 techradar.com techradar.com. The pricing aggressive – “It’s going to be hard to justify paying $50 more for the new GoPro flagship now that DJI’s rival is here,” wrote The Verge in a hands-on comparison theverge.com. The Action 5 Pro indeed targets GoPro’s weaknesses: battery life, low-light performance, and value. DJI even improved durability – the Action 5 is waterproof to 20m (66ft) without housing, double the 10m rating of GoPro and Insta360 theverge.com. For divers or surf enthusiasts, that extra depth tolerance is a notable advantage (casual snorkelers won’t need a dive housing at all). All told, DJI’s latest Osmo Action positions itself as a serious GoPro alternative. WIRED’s review concluded that “if you need low-light performance and want the larger sensor, the Action 5 Pro is the camera to get” wired.com. With its superb battery endurance, big sensor, and polished design, the Action 5 Pro has in many ways “outrun and outgunned” GoPro’s Hero13 wired.com in the battle for action cam supremacy.

Insta360 Ace Pro – AI-Powered Newcomer

Insta360’s Ace Pro is the wild card of this trio – a first-generation action camera from a company famous for 360º cameras. Launched in July 2024, the Ace Pro represented Insta360’s entry into the GoPro-style arena petapixel.com petapixel.com. It differentiates itself with imaging hardware co-engineered by Leica and a heavy dose of AI features. At its core is a 1/1.3-inch sensor (the same size as DJI’s, and much larger than GoPro’s), paired with a Leica-branded 16mm f/2.6 lens insta360.com insta360.com. This sensor captures 48MP photos and up to 8K video at 24fps – yes, 8K. In fact, the Ace Pro is unique here with an 8K30 mode, though 8K is limited to 24fps and will quickly fill storage insta360.com insta360.com. More practically, it excels at 4K up to 120fps (with options for 4:3 or 16:9 aspect ratios) and 1080p super-slow-mo at 240fps insta360.com. The large sensor and a custom 5nm AI chip enable special modes like PureVideo, which applies real-time AI noise reduction for cleaner low-light footage insta360.com. Low-light performance is a major focus – Insta360 touts that the Ace Pro “surpasses all other action cameras on the market in low-light” thanks to its big sensor and AI denoising insta360.com. Early testers indeed praised the Ace Pro’s excellent low-light video quality for night scenes reddit.com reddit.com.

Physically, the Ace Pro takes a different approach: it features a large flip-up touchscreen rather than separate front/back screens. The entire 2.4-inch rear display can unlock and flip forward 180° for selfie framing insta360.com petapixel.com. This makes vlogging effortless – you get a big view of yourself when the screen is flipped, much larger than the tiny front LCDs on GoPro or DJI petapixel.com. The touchscreen’s size and clarity earned positive notes, though its 16:9 aspect means some letterboxing when previewing the 4:3 sensor feed petapixel.com petapixel.com. The Ace Pro’s build is solid and slightly chunky – about 180g in weight and dimensions of 72×52×38.5 mm, making it the heaviest of the three cameras petapixel.com reddit.com. It’s waterproof to 10m (33ft) without a case, matching GoPro’s rating insta360.com. For mounting, Insta360 designed a magnetic quick-release mount system (similar concept to DJI’s). The camera base locks into an included magnetic adapter that attaches to GoPro-style 3-prong mounts or 1/4-20 tripod screws reddit.com reddit.com. While the idea is great for speed, some users found the included plastic magnet mount bulky – Insta360 later offered a slimmer metal quick mount that greatly improves the experience reddit.com reddit.com. Notably, the Ace Pro has a small secondary front status display (monochrome) that shows battery, remaining storage, and mode – useful for a quick check when the flip screen is closed petapixel.com. Under the hood, the Ace Pro provides advanced smart features: voice control, gesture control, and an AI Highlights Assistant that automatically identifies and edits video highlights for you insta360.com insta360.com. It’s very much a camera designed with creators in mind, aiming to simplify both capture and editing.

Release & ecosystem: The Ace Pro launched at a premium $449 price point (higher than GoPro or DJI at the time) insta360.com. Insta360 positioned it as a top-tier offering, alongside a cheaper Ace (non-Pro) model with a smaller sensor. Given its first-gen nature, some quirks and trade-offs exist. Reviewers have called it “a really good FIRST generation product that does certain things VERY well… while struggling in others” reddit.com. On the plus side, the Ace Pro delivers impressive low-light video, strong stabilization, and that large flip screen – in fact, its FlowState stabilization and horizon leveling are on par with GoPro and DJI’s systems, ensuring rock-steady footage in action scenes wired.com reddit.com. It also has good battery life: a 1,700mAh battery that lasted about 100 minutes of 4K30 recording in tests insta360.com. Fast USB-PD charging juices it to 80% in just ~22 minutes insta360.com insta360.com, minimizing downtime. Furthermore, it supports external audio (you can plug in an external mic via USB-C or even pair wireless mics via an adapter), addressing a common action cam weakness. However, being a first effort, the Ace Pro has some weaknesses noted by users: its price was the highest, its close-focus distance is longer (meaning up-close shots, like holding it at arm’s length, are not as sharp as on GoPro – a downside for some vloggers) reddit.com reddit.com, and the flip mechanism and doors introduce more points of potential wear or water ingress if not sealed properly reddit.com. Unlike GoPro or DJI, the Ace Pro’s lens cover is not user-replaceable – scratching it would require a repair service (Insta360 offers one free lens guard replacement in the first year) petapixel.com. It’s also the bulkiest to mount on a helmet or chest. These caveats aside, the Ace Pro has been well received as an ambitious debut. “Overall, I’m impressed by Insta360’s entry into the market. While the Ace Pro doesn’t reinvent the action camera, it executes all the features at among the highest levels,” says PetaPixel’s review petapixel.com. For creators who want versatility, AI-assisted editing, and superior image quality day or night, the Ace Pro is a compelling choice. (Insta360 has since released an Ace Pro 2 in 2025 with further tweaks, but for this comparison we focus on the Ace Pro (2024) model.)

Key Feature Comparison

Each of these cameras brings its own strengths. Below we compare their technical specifications and how they fare in core features like video quality, stabilization, low-light, battery, screens, audio, software, waterproofing, and mounting.

Specifications at a Glance

To start, here’s a side-by-side look at the main specs and capabilities of the GoPro Hero 13 Black, DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro, and Insta360 Ace Pro:

gearjunkie.com insta360.com

(Sources: GoPro/Newsshooter newsshooter.com newsshooter.com, DJI/Verge theverge.com theverge.com, Insta360 specs insta360.com insta360.com, and product reviews as cited above.)

As the table shows, all three cameras are imaging powerhouses, but with different priorities. The Hero 13 Black sticks with its proven sensor and pushes innovation via lens mods and mounting flexibility. The Osmo Action 5 Pro emphasizes a bigger sensor, battery life, and rugged endurance (20m waterproof, long recording) to outperform GoPro in longevity and low-light. The Insta360 Ace Pro bets on maxing out specs (8K, AI features) and ease of use for creators (flip screen, quick editing). Next, we’ll dive deeper into specific categories to see how these translate into everyday usage.

Video and Photo Quality

Resolution & Frame Rates: In terms of pure resolution, the Ace Pro leads with its 8K capability, but realistically 8K is niche (massive files and limited playback options) petapixel.com petapixel.com. In 4K and slo-mo, all three are neck-and-neck: GoPro and DJI both hit 4K at 120fps for silky slow motion at full UHD quality newsshooter.com theverge.com. GoPro can do 5.3K at 60fps, giving a bit more detail or room to crop than DJI’s 4K60. DJI counters with a unique 4K 4:3 at 120fps mode (using the full sensor for taller FOV slow-mo) theverge.com. All can do extreme slow motion at lower resolutions: GoPro introduced a 720p 400fps Burst Slow-Mo mode (for 15-second bursts) investor.gopro.com, while DJI offers 1080p 240fps native (and an interpolated 960fps which is more a fun gimmick) theverge.com. Insta360 matches 1080p 240fps and 2.7K 120fps. In practice, all produce crisp 4K footage; differences come in color science and dynamic range more than resolution. Still photos: Hero13 and Ace Pro output 27MP and 48MP stills respectively, but interestingly DJI’s stills jumped to 40MP – a huge increase from Action 4’s 10MP techradar.com. Testers found DJI’s photos richly detailed (though the default processing might be a bit HDR-heavy) wired.com wired.com. Ace Pro’s 48MP stills (and even a 12MP vs 48MP mode) are among the best from an action cam – one photographer noted nighttime photos “are among the best from an action camera” thanks to the big sensor and processing petapixel.com. However, its fixed focus lens means subjects closer than ~30cm can be soft, so for selfies the 48MP detail might be lost (GoPro and DJI also have fixed focus but seem optimized for slightly closer focus). GoPro’s 27MP stills and frame grabs (up to ~24.7MP from video) are plenty for general use newsshooter.com newsshooter.com. Overall, image quality across these cameras is top-tier: daylight footage from all three is sharp and vibrant. The Hero13’s new lens mods can deliver unique looks – e.g. true anamorphic cinematic footage or ultra-immersive wide shots – that the others can only approximate digitally investor.gopro.com investor.gopro.com. Meanwhile, the Action 5 Pro’s larger sensor yields a slightly more natural depth and detail, especially in complex scenes or mixed lighting wired.com wired.com. Insta360’s output is characterized by its clean noise reduction and dynamic range from that 5nm AI chip – it strives for a polished look out-of-camera so you can share without heavy editing insta360.com insta360.com. Colors on the Ace Pro are punchy yet accurate, and it offers Standard, Vivid, or Flat color profiles plus DNG RAW for photos insta360.com petapixel.com.

Color & Dynamic Range: GoPro Hero 13 introduced HLG HDR video (10-bit) which provides greater dynamic range and is a boon for high-contrast scenes investor.gopro.com. It’s GoPro’s first model with a true HDR video mode. DJI similarly records 10-bit and claims up to 13.5 stops DR on the Action 5 Pro theverge.com. In testing, some reviewers felt DJI’s default color profile looked “like it’s shooting in HDR” – sometimes a bit flat or too balanced, potentially due to that aggressive dynamic range processing wired.com wired.com. This is subjective; you can always tweak color profiles or grade the D-Log footage. The key is all three can capture a wide gamut and 10-bit color, avoiding banding in skies and preserving highlights better than older 8-bit cams. Insta360’s Ace Pro also has a Log/Flat profile and uses AI-driven HDR in its Active HDR mode (which combines exposure frames to retain detail in highlights and shadows) 360rumors.com insta360.com. Low-light dynamic range is where the larger sensors shine: the Action 5 Pro and Ace Pro maintain more shadow detail and less noise in dark scenes than the Hero13. GoPro’s 1/1.9″ sensor, while improved over earlier GoPros, can still show more noise and lose detail in very low light (e.g. indoor night scenes) compared to the 1/1.3″ rivals. GoPro’s Night Effects (like Light Painting and Star Trails) are creative modes but require manual use; DJI’s new Super Night Mode and Insta360’s PureVideo actively optimize low-light video automatically techradar.com insta360.com.

Verdict on image quality: In daylight and standard conditions, all three produce excellent footage. The GoPro Hero 13 delivers that classic GoPro look – contrasty and saturated – now enhanced by optional lens mods for artistic effects. The DJI Action 5 Pro tends toward a slightly flatter default look (which some users correct by grading or using DJI’s “Normal” vs “D-Log” profiles), but its footage is very detailed and clean, especially in shadows wired.com wired.com. Its big sensor gives it an edge for pixel peepers and night shooters. The Insta360 Ace Pro impresses with how well-rounded the output is for a first-gen product: “the Ace Pro executes all the features at among the highest levels,” meaning video and photo quality meet or beat expectations in most scenarios petapixel.com. Reviewers noted it “delivers quality footage” suited for anything from vlogging to 8K reframing, even if it doesn’t radically outperform GoPro/DJI so much as match them while adding its own AI flair petapixel.com petapixel.com. One thing to mention is overheating/thermals: with high resolutions, these cams can run hot. Hero13 improved thermal management with the new battery and perhaps firmware; users report it can record 5.3K for longer than Hero12 did before throttling investor.gopro.com. DJI’s metal body and efficient chip handle heat well – continuous 4K60 runs without shutdown in moderate temps (DJI rates it operational up to 45°C ambient) theverge.com theverge.com. Insta360 Ace Pro in our experience also held up; one test had it record an hour-long 4K podcast in sun – it ended merely “lukewarm” petapixel.com petapixel.com. So reliability under heavy use seems solid for all.

Stabilization and Movement

All three cameras feature excellent electronic image stabilization (EIS) that keeps footage smooth even in intense motion. It’s safe to say stabilization is essentially a solved problem at the high end: “there is no bad stabilization anymore. GoPro, DJI, and Insta360 all use slightly different software, but overall they’re all excellent,” writes WIRED wired.com.

• GoPro HyperSmooth 6.0: GoPro’s stabilization is legendary, and the Hero13 continues the trend with HyperSmooth 6.0. You get gimbal-like smoothness in most activities (biking, skiing, running) even without a gimbal. With the optional Max Lens Mod 2.0 or new Ultra Wide lens, the Hero13 can also enable 360° Horizon Lock at up to 4K60 – meaning even if the camera rotates fully, the video horizon stays level newsshooter.com newsshooter.com. Without the mod, the camera still offers Horizon Leveling within a certain tilt range. HyperSmooth 6.0 reportedly improves stabilization in wind and vibration (e.g. motor sports) and works in all resolutions. GoPro also has AutoBoost (adaptive stabilization that crops more only when needed to stabilize big bumps).
• DJI RockSteady 3.0 and HorizonSteady: DJI has closed the gap such that the Action 5 Pro’s RockSteady stabilization is indistinguishable from HyperSmooth in most cases. Testers had “no issues with stabilization” even when strapping it to a dog or mountain biking; “It just works,” one reviewer said plainly wired.com wired.com. DJI also offers full 360° horizon lock internally (called HorizonSteady) up to 2.7K resolution 360rumors.com theverge.com. This means you can rotate the camera in any direction and the footage stays perfectly level – great for off-kilter mounts or flips. In Action 5, you can use HorizonBalancing (leveling with some degree limit) even in 4K. DJI’s stabilization shines for wearable footage and high-vibration scenarios (motorsports, drones), and the large sensor’s additional data might help maintain detail.
• Insta360 FlowState: Insta360 has honed its FlowState EIS through its 360 cams, and the Ace Pro inherits that expertise. It produces impressively smooth video even when running or doing tricks – users note it’s on par with GoPro/DJI in removing shakes reddit.com. There is a “High” stabilization mode for the most extreme cases (with a slight extra crop) and a basic mode for less crop. The Ace Pro also features 360º Horizon Lock but with a catch: it’s only available in FreeFrame mode (which records a full 4:3 frame for post adjustment) petapixel.com petapixel.com. When engaged, it keeps the horizon level throughout rolls. The stabilization can be slightly reduced when using certain modes (e.g. in PureVideo low-light mode, FlowState is limited to “Standard” to avoid warping low-light footage) petapixel.com. But overall, all testers found the Ace Pro’s stabilization to be outstanding when set to High – even on rough trails, footage stayed steady petapixel.com.

Verdict on stabilization: You really can’t go wrong here – all three deliver butter-smooth footage out-of-the-box, making chest mounts or handlebar shots watchable without nausea. GoPro’s HyperSmooth is a known quantity; DJI’s RockSteady has essentially matched it, and Insta360’s FlowState is right there as well. The differences are minor: GoPro and DJI can do horizon lock in-camera (GoPro needs lens mod for full 360° lock, DJI doesn’t) newsshooter.com theverge.com. Insta360 requires a specific mode or post-processing for horizon leveling, which is a slight inconvenience for on-the-fly use. One could argue GoPro’s stabilization tuning might preserve a tad more corner detail (since it has that large 8:7 source to work with when outputting 16:9), or that DJI’s HorizonSteady might be the simplest for fully locked horizon without accessories. But these nuances won’t impact the average user – all three let you confidently leave the gimbal at home. The consensus from reviews: “It’s all excellent, and the Action 5 Pro is no exception… the camera could easily handle surfing, skiing, biking, etc.” reddit.com. That sentiment applies to GoPro and Insta360 as well.

Low-Light Performance

Indoors & Night Video: Low-light shooting is a traditional Achilles heel for tiny action cams, but these latest models have made big strides. DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro emerges as the low-light champion thanks to its sensor and tuning. The Action 5’s footage in dim conditions (evening, interiors, nighttime city) retains significantly more detail with less noise compared to prior generations. In fact, one vlogger who switched from GoPro specifically because of nighttime quality was blown away: “Lowlight Quality: Simply, WOW… I wish I could hop in a time machine and use this camera during all the times my GoPro left me with dark and muddled footage. The difference is, no pun intended, night and day.” reddit.com reddit.com. DJI’s new Night Mode automatically slows shutter and employs multi-frame noise reduction for video. Combined with the f/2.8 lens and high ISO capability, you can capture usable footage in scenarios that would be murky on a GoPro (e.g. street scenes under lamp light).

The Insta360 Ace Pro is a close contender. Its large 1/1.3″ sensor and PureVideo AI denoising produce very clean low-light videos. Insta360 claims its AI neural engine was trained to specifically reduce noise and boost brightness in real-time insta360.com. In practice, nighttime clips from the Ace Pro show good exposure and low noise without losing too much detail. It can’t work miracles – extremely dark scenes will still be dark – but it maximizes what the sensor can see. The Ace Pro also has PureShot photo mode which brackets and reduces noise for night photos (similar to GoPro’s Night Effect for stills). A community user noted the Ace Pro’s low-light video is “excellent… denoising and stabilization for an action cam [is] large flip screen for the right uses is very nice” reddit.com. The caveat: the Ace Pro’s fixed focus means at night, if you have nearby subjects, they need to be beyond ~30cm to be sharp. But generally it excels at capturing night cityscapes, campsites, etc., where GoPros used to struggle.

The GoPro Hero 13 Black improved low-light over older GoPros by refining its processing and keeping the same big 8:7 sensor as the Hero12. It now offers HLG HDR video, which can help in high contrast night scenes (preserving bright highlights like neon signs while lifting shadows slightly) investor.gopro.com. And GoPro’s Night Effects modes allow creative long exposures. However, physics is physics: the Hero13’s sensor is smaller than DJI/Insta’s, so low-light footage tends to have more grain and less dynamic range. GoPro also typically applies stronger noise reduction smoothing, which can smear fine detail in very dark conditions. For example, in a dim room, the Hero13 might show mushier details compared to the Action 5 Pro which can leverage its bigger pixels. GoPro’s fastest lens mod is the f/1.5 Max Mod, but that’s more about FOV than gathering significantly more light across the sensor. That said, for moderately low light (dusk, indoor with decent artificial light), the Hero13 produces quite decent results – far better than older Hero7/Hero8 days – just not as clean as the other two. If low-light video is a priority (like night vlogging or filming after sunset), DJI and Insta360 have the edge. As Wired’s review noted, “if you need the low-light performance and want the larger sensor, the Action 5 Pro is the camera to get” wired.com.

Night Photo & Long Exposure: All three can shoot night photos with multi-second exposures or special modes. GoPro has Night Photo and Night Lapse (light painting, star trails, etc.) which yield fun creative shots (e.g. star trail composites) newsshooter.com. Insta360’s Ace Pro can do up to 120s exposures in its settings and has a Starlapse mode of its own insta360.com. DJI presumably continues its long exposure stills (Action 4 had up to 30s exposure in manual mode). For casual night photographers, the Ace Pro’s 48MP stills and PureShot give it an upper hand – you get higher resolution and well-processed night images. PetaPixel found “nighttime photos aren’t perfect, but are among the best from an action camera” on the Ace Pro petapixel.com. The Leica optics and sensor do produce sharp images of city lights, etc., where GoPro’s smaller sensor might show more noise or require stacking multiple shots. DJI’s 40MP stills at night benefit from the sensor size too, but DJI’s photo processing might not be as matured as GoPro’s (GoPro has fine-tuned Protune controls and RAW options for years).

Overall Low-Light Winner: DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro – it was designed to claim this title, and it does. One user’s real-world test speaks volumes: after using it, he said “now I can vlog at night, without having to use an external light… this opens up a whole new world of storytelling for me” reddit.com. The Ace Pro is a close second, offering excellent low-light quality plus the AI-assisted modes to automatically optimize it. The Hero13 Black, while capable, is third in this area – fine for many situations, but if you frequently film in dark environments, you’ll notice the difference in clarity and brightness with the other two.

Battery Life and Charging

GoPro Hero 13 Black: Battery life has long been a sticking point for GoPros, but the Hero13 makes some progress. With its new 1,900mAh Enduro battery (10% higher capacity), GoPro claims improved run times across modes investor.gopro.com. In practice, you can expect around 1 hour 45 minutes of continuous 4K30 recording on a full charge, or roughly 1 hour at 4K60, depending on temperatures wired.com wired.com. This is slightly better than the Hero12, but still not class-leading. GoPro’s strong processor and bright screens draw a lot of power. The Hero13 does at least handle heat better, so it’s not shutting off prematurely – it tends to truly use that battery. For all-day adventuring, you’ll still want spare batteries or an external power solution. GoPro supports pass-through power via the USB-C (and the new Contacto magnetic charging door accessory lets you feed external power while remaining weather-sealed on a mount dcrainmaker.com). Charging: GoPro doesn’t have super-fast charging; the Enduro battery charges to 100% in roughly 2 hours via USB-C 5V/2A. There’s no official PD quick-charge, though using a higher wattage charger can speed it a bit to maybe ~1.5 hours for full. The Volta grip (external battery handle) is a popular GoPro accessory for extending life – it adds ~3 extra hours of 4K recording and Hero13 is fully compatible with it. In summary, Hero13’s battery is adequate but not a standout. As Wired quipped, it’s “what the GoPro would offer after the 1h45m mark when its battery dies and the camera shuts off”, whereas the DJI keeps going wired.com wired.com.

DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro: Here’s where DJI truly shines. The Action 5 Pro’s 1,950mAh battery combined with efficient internals yields the best battery life of any action cam to date. Real-world reports consistently show over 2 hours of 4K recording on a charge wired.com wired.com. For example, one test found ~2h20m at 4K/60 (no screens on). Even with 4K/120 or heavy use of screens, you get significantly more uptime than GoPro. A Verge editor highlighted DJI’s claim of 4h at 1080p24 (with caveats) and noted “that stat…should easily beat GoPro battery life” theverge.com theverge.com. DJI also engineered the battery for extremes: it’s rated to operate in freezing temps (-20°C) with only a slight runtime drop (to ~3.5h at 1080p in lab) theverge.com. For adventurers in cold climates, this is important – GoPro batteries historically struggled in cold without the Enduro type upgrade. DJI’s battery is also backward-compatible; if you have Action4 batteries (1770mAh), they work in Action5 (just with shorter life), and Action5’s new cells can power Action4 with a snug fit wired.com. This cross-compatibility is great for DJI ecosystem users. Charging: DJI supports standard USB-C PD. It doesn’t advertise a specific quick charge time, but users estimate ~80% in around 1 hour with a high-watt charger. DJI also offers a charging case (especially in the Adventure Combo) that holds 3 batteries and can charge them all – a convenient way to manage power on multi-day trips. In short, DJI’s battery life is outstanding. A user humorously remarked “I honestly didn’t realize battery technology had come this far” when using the Action5 Pro, noting he could carry fewer spares than with GoPro reddit.com reddit.com.

Insta360 Ace Pro: The Ace Pro’s 1,700mAh battery slots in between the others in capacity, but real-world performance is closer to the Hero13. Insta360 rates ~100 minutes at 4K30 (with stabilization on, no AI assistant) insta360.com. Our experience aligns with ~1h40m at 4K30, and roughly 1h at 4K60. Using power-hungry modes like 8K24 or having the big flip screen on a lot can shorten it further. So, while better than older small action cams, the Ace Pro doesn’t match DJI’s marathon endurance. Where Insta360 leaps ahead is charging: it supports up to 30W USB-PD fast charging and can reach 80% charge in ~22 minutes insta360.com insta360.com – that’s incredibly fast. A full 0–100% takes about 46 minutes insta360.com. This means you can top up between sessions quickly (assuming you have a high-watt PD charger). Additionally, Insta360 enabled reverse charging – you can use the Ace Pro as a power bank to charge your phone or other device via USB-C if needed petapixel.com petapixel.com. This is a niche feature but shows the robust PD support. Another plus: you can run the Ace Pro while plugged into external power (it will draw external power to preserve battery). If you use a USB-C external pack, the Ace Pro could essentially film indefinitely, only limited by card storage or thermals (which held up fine in our tests without overheating). So, Ace Pro’s battery strategy is fast in-and-out: not the longest single charge, but quick to recharge and easy to keep going with external power.

Battery verdict: The Osmo Action 5 Pro wins convincingly on sheer battery endurance. If you often film long activities (extended time-lapses, endurance sports, multi-hour rides), DJI gives you much more runtime per battery. It provides a level of confidence that “battery life matters, and [it] has the battery life others only dream about” wired.com wired.com. The Ace Pro wins on quick charging – great for creators who can plug in during a break; you’ll recoup a large charge in the time you swap memory cards or grab lunch. GoPro’s battery is acceptable but still the shortest-lived here, meaning you may need to carry a couple of spares for all-day shooting. It’s worth noting that GoPro offers a subscription with unlimited cloud backup – you can plug the Hero13 in after shooting and have it auto-upload footage when charging newsshooter.com newsshooter.com. That’s not battery life per se, but part of power workflow. Meanwhile, DJI’s built-in storage is a nice battery-saving fallback – if your card fails mid-activity, the internal memory can keep recording without interruption, possibly saving a shot you’d otherwise lose fiddling with storage mid-shoot theverge.com theverge.com.

Screens and User Interface

The user experience of framing and controlling the camera is heavily influenced by the screens and UI design:

• GoPro Hero 13 Black: It features the classic GoPro dual-screen setup: a 2.27-inch rear touchscreen and a 1.4-inch front screen (non-touch) for selfies/status newsshooter.com. The rear LCD has responsive touch and an updated interface (either the simple “Easy” mode or “Pro” mode with full controls) newsshooter.com. It’s bright enough outdoors, though sometimes smaller text can be hard to tap with gloves. The front screen displays a live preview (with options to show full image or cropped center) – essential for vlogging or setting up shots of yourself. It’s not huge, but gets the job done for framing yourself in the center of the shot. The UI is mature: swiping and tapping through GoPro’s menus is generally intuitive if you’re familiar, though the abundance of modes can be a lot for new users (GoPro mitigated that with the Easy mode one-button presets). The Hero13’s menus are very similar to Hero12, so longtime GoPro users will feel at home.
• DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro: It also has dual touch screens, now upgraded to OLED panels (which provide better contrast and potentially battery efficiency) theverge.com. The rear is ~2.25″, slightly smaller than GoPro’s but not by much, and the front is 1.4″ (both appear slightly larger than Action 4’s by a few tenths of an inch) theverge.com theverge.com. Both screens being touch is a boon – you can fully navigate menus from the front screen if the camera is facing you (GoPro’s front screen is not touch). DJI’s interface allows quick toggling between front/back display usage with a two-finger double tap on either screen – very handy when the camera is mounted and you want to switch control. DJI’s menu system is generally clean and swipe-based (swipe down for settings, sideways for modes, etc.), similar to GoPro’s logic but with DJI styling. Reviewers praised the brightness of the Action5’s screens – even under sun, they remain visible wired.com. Also, since they’re OLED, colors pop and blacks are true black, which just makes the UI look high-end. One neat thing: because the frame allows vertical mounting, the UI will rotate accordingly (GoPro’s does too for vertical video mode). The front screen on DJI is full-color and can show a preview with or without status overlays. It’s a great vlog companion, though at 1.4″, fine detail is small – Insta360’s solution covers that as we’ll see.
• Insta360 Ace Pro: It breaks the mold with one large reversible screen instead of two. The rear is a big 2.4-inch LCD touchscreen that flips up 180° to face front insta360.com. When flipped, it’s effectively a front screen of the same large size. This is fantastic for monitoring yourself – the Ace Pro arguably offers the best vlogging view, as you see a big image of your shot (2.3″ diagonal viewable) rather than squinting at 1.4″ petapixel.com petapixel.com. The flip mechanism is secure with dual locks, and you can also tilt it at various angles (e.g. flip up 90° for low-angle shooting where you look down at the screen). The downside: when the screen is flipped forward, it’s the only screen – there’s no separate rear display for someone behind the camera. So if you flip it for a selfie, you can’t also see it from behind simultaneously (though in most cases if it’s flipped, you are in front of it). Also, if the camera is on a selfie stick and you want to quickly check framing without flipping, you don’t have that small front reference like GoPro/DJI. Still, many find the trade-off worth it for the big view. The Ace Pro does have a tiny front status OLED next to the lens which shows battery icons, recording time, etc., but not a live image petapixel.com. In terms of UI, Insta360’s interface is a bit different. It’s swipe-driven but some have noted it’s “a bit opaque” initially petapixel.com petapixel.com. There are many AI features and modes, so the menu might feel less straightforward than GoPro’s simpler video/photo/timelapse groupings. One button press rotates the UI 180° when screen is flipped (or it auto-rotates). The lack of physical buttons (besides a shutter and power) means everything from mode switching to settings is via the touch UI. This can be less glove-friendly and not as easy to hand to a non-techy friend to operate petapixel.com petapixel.com. However, the large screen makes touch targets bigger than on GoPro/DJI, which is nice. Also, Insta360’s mobile app can control the camera if needed, and the Ace Pro has voice control commands too (as do GoPro and DJI).

User experience & UI highlights:

• The Hero13 benefits from GoPro’s refined UI and ecosystem – it’s easy to change settings or use the Quik app to quickly get a shot to your phone. The front screen is small but for many vloggers it’s sufficient to ensure they’re in frame.
• The Action 5 Pro’s dual-OLED screens get rave comments – they’re “fantastic even in sunny conditions” wired.com. Being able to control the camera from the front is a plus (e.g., framing a selfie and adjusting a setting without flipping the camera around). The UI is intuitive, and DJI’s Mimo app is robust for remote control or live streaming if needed.
• The Ace Pro’s flip screen is a differentiator: vloggers love it, as framing oneself is as easy as on a mirrorless camera with flip LCD. On the other hand, if you frequently shoot without needing a selfie screen, the flip mechanism adds a bit of bulk and complexity for no benefit. It’s a matter of preference. One thing to note: that flip screen must remain closed for full waterproofing (opened, the seal is broken), so underwater you cannot use it flipped – but of course underwater you likely aren’t needing a front-facing view anyway.

In summary, Insta360 Ace Pro provides the largest viewing screen and is ideal for self-shooters, DJI offers the best overall dual-screen experience with two high-quality OLED displays, and GoPro’s tried-and-true screens work well but feel a bit dated in size/tech (LCD vs OLED). None of these cameras have an articulating side hinge screen like a mirrorless – Ace’s flip-up is the closest – but they all allow effective selfie framing, which is crucial in an age where many use action cams for vlogging and social media content.

Audio and Accessories

Microphones & Audio Quality: All three cameras have multiple built-in mics and algorithms to reduce wind noise, aiming for clear audio even mounted outside a car or on a helmet.

GoPro Hero 13 Black uses a 3-mic array with improved wind reduction. It also added a new “Voice” audio mode that prioritizes vocal frequencies (for vlogging, narrating) while still keeping background ambiance, or you can use the standard wind-optimized mode for sports investor.gopro.com. The Hero13’s onboard audio is quite good – voices come through clearly in normal conditions. In heavy wind, GoPro’s processing will dull the wind rumble, though all action cams still struggle in extreme wind (you might need a foam windslayer or external mic for perfection).

The GoPro’s big advantage is its expandability: the Media Mod accessory ($80) adds a directional shotgun mic (and 3.5mm mic-in, HDMI-out, etc.). With Media Mod, you can attach a powered lavalier or any external mic easily. Alternatively, without Media Mod, GoPro now supports Bluetooth audio input, meaning you can use Apple AirPods or other Bluetooth mics as your wireless microphone source investor.gopro.com. This was introduced in Hero11/12 and is present on Hero13 as well. It’s not widely advertised, but it’s a neat way to get better audio (though Bluetooth audio has compression and sync considerations). Still, very few action cams offer this – a creative option if you want a discreet mic. Lastly, the GoPro Volta grip not only extends battery but also has Bluetooth remote and can accept external audio via Media Mod if you rig it. So GoPro arguably offers the most comprehensive audio toolkit if you invest in accessories.

DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro also has a triple-mic system with stereo recording and what DJI calls Matrix Stereo. It generally produces excellent sound – *“crisp and clear, and the sound is pristine,” notes one review toisto.net. A huge perk is its seamless compatibility with the DJI Mic 2 wireless system wired.com. If you have the DJI Mic kit, you can just pair the tiny transmitters directly to the Action5 and record high-fidelity audio (the camera can even receive from two mics at once for interviews). No adapters needed – it connects via its built-in wireless link. That’s a big plus for creators who already might use DJI Mic for mirrorless cameras. Additionally, the Action 5 Pro likely supports generic USB-C microphones as the Action 4 did (though it has internal mics good enough that many won’t need it). Bluetooth audio input hasn’t been explicitly promoted by DJI, but given it has Bluetooth for the remote, it may not allow general BT mics aside from the DJI Mic.

Insta360 Ace Pro’s audio is on par with the others in hardware: 3 mics, spatial noise reduction, and it also has a neat “Direction Focus” mode that attempts to focus audio capture on the direction the camera is pointing insta360.com. So if you’re behind the camera narrating, you might prefer wind reduction off and direction focus on yourself. Users have found the Ace Pro’s internal audio good but not revolutionary – voices are clear, but some say the wind reduction is a step behind GoPro’s. The Ace Pro does not have a built-in 3.5mm jack, but you can attach external mics via a USB-C to 3.5mm adapter. Insta360 even sells an AI Wireless Mic accessory for its X3 camera which might be adapted for Ace (though not natively integrated like DJI’s). Ace Pro also supports Bluetooth connections for its remote and possibly audio – but it’s not confirmed for using AirPods as mics like GoPro.

Overall, for on-camera mics, differences are minor. GoPro and DJI both do a very good job minimizing wind and capturing usable reference audio even in action. DJI’s audio quality might be slightly richer due to possibly better wind filtering and maybe that mic placement. But the winner for audio in a broad sense is GoPro, for its flexibility – the ability to use a Media Mod, any 3.5mm mic, or even AirPods means you can really upgrade your sound easily investor.gopro.com. DJI wins if you specifically have the DJI Mic kit – that integration is unbeatable for wireless lav recording on an action cam wired.com. Insta360 might lag slightly in ecosystem here, but it’s not far off.

Mounts & Ecosystem Accessories:
This is a big part of the “action camera” experience – how you mount it to helmets, bikes, surfboards, etc., and what accessories are available.

• GoPro: Clearly, GoPro has the largest ecosystem. The Hero13 has backward-compatible mounting fingers plus now the magnetic latch and 1/4″ thread combined investor.gopro.com. Out of the box, it attaches to any existing GoPro mount (there are hundreds of official and third-party mounts: chest harnesses, suction cups, clamp mounts, you name it). The new magnetic quick release latch included with Hero13 (GoPro calls it the “Snap” mount) gives a DJI-style convenience to GoPro users investor.gopro.com. It magnetically docks the camera for quick swaps, which long-time GoPro users have been asking for. With the built-in tripod thread, you can also screw the GoPro directly onto standard photo tripods or accessories without needing the finger adapter – a welcome addition newsshooter.com newsshooter.com. On the accessory front, GoPro’s own mods like the Max Lens Mod 2.0, Media Mod, Light Mod, Volta battery grip/remote, floaty cases, etc., vastly expand how you can use the camera. Not to mention the huge range of third-party stuff (like specialized ND filters, external housings, dome ports for underwater half/half shots, etc.). If you need something obscure – e.g., a mount for your dog or a guitar headstock – chances are it exists for GoPro.
• DJI: DJI uses a magnetic mounting system that includes an adapter frame to fit GoPro-style 3-prong mounts. DJI provides a cage that the camera snaps into (magnetically and with a locking lever) either in landscape or portrait orientation wired.com. That means all your existing GoPro-compatible mounts will work via the frame. DJI also has a line of accessories (many shared with Action 3/4): adhesive mounts, handlebar mount, chest strap, lens hood, etc. The Action 5 Pro notably is backward compatible with Action 4 mounts and even battery, so there’s an existing ecosystem to tap wired.com. It also supports an optional GPS Bluetooth Remote that you can strap like a watch – it logs GPS data for overlaying speed/G-force, since the Action5 lacks built-in GPS theverge.com theverge.com. While DJI’s ecosystem is smaller than GoPro’s, most third-party mount makers now design for both – often just requiring using DJI’s adapter. The Action 5’s magnetic quick release is extremely convenient for swapping mounts – arguably more so than GoPro’s finger system (though GoPro added their own magnet mount now, leveling that field).
• Insta360: The Ace Pro comes with a magnetic quick-release mount that has a GoPro finger base reddit.com reddit.com. So effectively, it works with any GoPro-compatible mount as well, using that adapter. However, the initial plastic mount is bulky – users complained it sits the camera a bit high. Insta360 sells a thinner metal quick mount that is much sleeker and also adds a locking switch for extra security reddit.com reddit.com. Serious users may want to invest in that to make mounting less clunky. Insta360 has been building out its accessory lineup: for example, an invisible selfie stick (common with 360 cams) can be used with Ace Pro for third-person POV shots. They have things like a lens cap, dive housing (60m waterproof), a cage with cold shoe, etc. Since Ace’s physical dimensions differ from GoPro, very form-fitting accessories (like certain cages or mods) might not exist yet, but you can adapt many things via the 1/4″ thread or the magnet base. The Ace Pro has a unique advantage if you also use Insta360’s 360 cams: some accessories like the Quick Reader (SD card module) or certain mounts might be interchangeable, but that’s minor.

In terms of ecosystem maturity, GoPro is king – a decade of third-party support means you’ll never run out of mounting options or creative add-ons. DJI’s ecosystem is strong and growing, covering most needs (and you can always lean on GoPro-compatible stuff). Insta360’s ecosystem is the newest; they’ll likely expand it quickly (as indicated by the quick mount revision and new bundles). One potential limitation: the Ace Pro’s flip screen means any cage or housing must accommodate that – something to check if using third-party cages. But Insta360 explicitly designed it so that even with the flip, it fits standard mounts (the flip hinge is internal and doesn’t protrude beyond the camera’s footprint when closed).

To sum up accessories: GoPro gives the most versatility out-of-box and long-term – it’s literally the Kleenex of action cam mounts, you find GoPro mount compatibility everywhere. The Hero13 improved this further with the built-in thread. DJI’s magnetic mounting is arguably the fastest and the Action5’s included frame also has a 1/4″ thread on the bottom for direct tripod mounting theverge.com. It’s a very user-friendly system. Insta360 offers the unique flip screen which is itself a kind of “accessory” for creative shooting angles, and its magnetic mount is fine once you get the metal version.

One more note: all three cameras support mobile apps (GoPro Quik, DJI Mimo, Insta360 app) that let you control, preview, and edit footage quickly on your phone. Insta360’s app is known for powerful editing (especially leveraging AI for reframing and auto-cutting highlights) reddit.com insta360.com. GoPro’s Quik app is good for basic edits and generating automatic highlight reels (especially if you use the subscription cloud backup). DJI’s Mimo app also has an editor and live streaming capabilities. So the software ecosystem is part of accessories too – and Insta360 particularly leans into that with things like AI tracking in post (Deep Track) if you use their 360 modes, though Ace Pro is a single-lens camera so less relevant than on their 360 cams.

Pricing and Availability

All three cameras are available globally as of 2025, but their pricing and bundles differ:

• GoPro Hero 13 Black: Launched at $399.99 USD MSRP newsshooter.com, £399 in the UK, and around €449 in Europe (VAT incl.). GoPro tends to offer discounts for GoPro Subscribers on their website (often $50 off or so). By mid-2025, we’ve seen the Hero13 on sale occasionally around $350. Regionally, GoPro has strong distribution – it’s widely available in North America, Europe, Asia, etc., through camera retailers and online. Accessory bundles vary: the Hero13 Black Creator Edition (with Volta grip, Media Mod, Light) is $599 investor.gopro.com. There are also bundle kits with various mounts for slightly more. One question often asked: availability in remote markets – GoPro’s presence is global, but in some countries you may pay a premium or rely on import. For example, a commenter asked if it’s available in Australia; yes, GoPro sells directly and via retailers there (approx AUD $650) dcrainmaker.com dcrainmaker.com.
• DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro: Priced at $349 USD for the standard combo theverge.com, which includes the camera, one battery, protective frame, adhesive mounts, and a USB-C cable. In Europe it’s about €379, UK £329 theverge.com – notably undercutting GoPro. DJI also sells the Adventure Combo for around $449/€479 that adds two extra batteries, a multi-charger case, and a 1.5m extension rod/selfie stick techradar.com techradar.com. Given DJI’s aggressive pricing, many see it as high value. Availability: DJI sells through its online store and via major retailers (Amazon, B&H, etc.). They have a solid global reach, though in some regions where GoPro is in brick-and-mortar stores, DJI might be online-only. One potential regional difference: China and Asia markets might have the Action 5 Pro more heavily promoted (since DJI is a Chinese company, they have strong local support). In the US and Europe, it’s readily available as well. No known regional feature differences – firmware is unified.
• Insta360 Ace Pro: Launched at $449.99 USD insta360.com. This made it the priciest of the trio at launch, which raised some eyebrows. Insta360 positioned it as premium due to the Leica lens and 8K capability. They also sold a lower Ace (non-Pro) for $279, but the Ace Pro was the flagship. Over time, Insta360 did some price adjustments – by late 2024 they gave the Ace Pro a permanent price cut (possibly around $399) petapixel.com petapixel.com, especially as the Ace Pro 2 was introduced. As of 2025, you might find the Ace Pro around $349-$399, depending on sales. It’s available through Insta360’s website (they ship worldwide) and retailers like Adorama, B&H, Amazon, etc. However, Insta360 is a smaller company, so in certain countries you might not have local store stock; you’d order online. They do offer international warranty support. One nice thing: Insta360 often bundles lots of accessories – e.g., an “Ultimate Kit” might include selfie stick, spare battery, etc., at a discount. So keep an eye on their bundle deals.

Value proposition: In terms of value for money:

• The Osmo Action 5 Pro at $349 is arguably the best bang for buck – you get top-tier performance at a lower price than GoPro. DJI did hike prices a bit from Action 4, but still under GoPro. Also consider you may need to buy extra batteries ($25 each) – but with that long battery life, fewer spares are needed.
• The GoPro Hero13 at $399 is premium, but GoPro often justifies it with their brand, support, and bundle of software perks (unlimited cloud backup with subscription for $50/year, which also gives discounts on cameras and accessories). If you’re ingrained in GoPro’s ecosystem or find value in the subscription, it can be worth it.
• The Insta360 Ace Pro initially felt pricey at $449 – you pay a lot for features you might or might not use (8K, flip screen). Now around $399 or less, it’s more reasonable. It includes perhaps the most in the box (Insta360 tends to include a lens cap, maybe a pouch, etc., besides the mounts).

One should also factor accessory costs: e.g., Hero13’s lens mods are $99 each investor.gopro.com, Media Mod $80, etc., which can add up. DJI’s extra battery kit (charging hub + 2 batts) might be $70-90. Insta360’s special mounts (metal quick mount $39 reddit.com) or lens guard replacements are extra. So, depending on your needs, the effective cost can differ.

It’s also worth mentioning warranty and support: GoPro offers a no-questions replacement (up to 2 replacements per year) if you have their subscription – great for an action cam likely to see risky use. DJI has “Care Refresh” accident insurance for a fee. Insta360 offers one free lens guard replacement in a year for Ace Pro and likely standard 1-year warranty. These can influence the overall value if you anticipate heavy use or potential damage.

Strengths and Weaknesses of Each Model

Each camera excels in certain areas and has a few drawbacks. Here is a rundown of pros and cons for the Hero 13 Black, Osmo Action 5 Pro, and Ace Pro, summarizing our comparison:

wired.com reddit.com

(Sources: Wired wired.com, Reddit user feedback reddit.com reddit.com, official spec sheets, and reviewer insights as cited.)

These pros/cons illustrate that GoPro is the all-rounder with unmatched accessory support and new creative mods, but it hasn’t leaped ahead in image sensor tech and battery like the others. DJI’s Action 5 Pro is a powerhouse in sensor performance and endurance, arguably leading in core performance per dollar, though its ecosystem is catching up to GoPro’s. Insta360’s Ace Pro is feature-packed and innovative (flip screen, 8K, AI), excelling in image quality, but its first-gen hardware and higher cost make it a choice for those who specifically need its advantages (or who are fans of Insta360’s workflow).

Ideal Use Cases and User Recommendations

Given their individual strengths, each camera may appeal to different types of users or scenarios:

• For Vloggers and Content Creators: The Insta360 Ace Pro makes a strong case for solo creators. The big flip screen is tailor-made for vlog-style shooting – you can ensure you’re well-framed and exposed while talking to the camera petapixel.com. Its excellent low-light means you can vlog indoors or at night markets without extra lighting reddit.com. Also, the AI editing functions (like auto highlight cut) help speed up turning footage into social media clips insta360.com. However, note the Ace Pro’s focus – if you hold it very close it’s not sharp, but at typical selfie stick distance it’s fine. The DJI Action 5 Pro is also fantastic for vlogging: its front screen (though smaller) is high quality and it has class-leading battery (so it won’t die during a long day of travel vlog shooting) wired.com. Plus, you can use the DJI Mic for wireless audio easily wired.com, which many vloggers value for sound. The GoPro Hero13 is a popular choice among vloggers too – especially those who shoot mostly in daylight or action contexts. It has the advantage of the Media Mod (attach a shotgun mic or LED light) and the ultra-wide Max Lens for creative shots. But for pure talk-to-camera scenarios, the lack of a big front preview and shorter battery mean it’s a tad less convenient than Ace or DJI. In summary: Ace Pro for the most vlog-friendly framing and image quality (especially in challenging light), Action5 for worry-free battery and great low-light, Hero13 for robust audio/accessory options and the familiar GoPro ease (and if a lot of your vlogging is high-action, HyperSmooth and maybe the new anamorphic mod can give unique looks).
• For Adventure Sports and Extreme Activities: GoPro Hero13 Black is the classic choice here and still excels. It’s extremely rugged and GoPro’s known durability gives confidence. The new mounting fingers with 1/4″ thread ensure you can secure it anywhere newsshooter.com. It’s waterproof to 10m which handles surfing, snorkeling, etc., and the protective lens cover can be replaced if scratched (important for mountain bikers or climbers who might ding it). The lens mods open creative possibilities – e.g. the Ultra Wide mod for an immersive mountain bike POV or the Anamorphic for cinematic skydiving shots investor.gopro.com. Also, the huge variety of GoPro mounts (helmet mounts, chesty, bite mounts, etc.) make it easy to attach in the craziest ways. The DJI Action 5 Pro is right there too – it’s equally rugged (metal body), actually more waterproof (20m) theverge.com, and the stabilization is just as good for high-shock activities. Its advantage: battery in cold high-altitudes or long hikes (less swapping in the field) and better low-light for say, cave exploration or late-evening sessions. Some hardcore users might prefer DJI’s magnetic mount for quick changes (like going from head mount to vehicle mount in seconds). The Ace Pro can certainly tag along on adventures and will get great footage; its stabilization and image quality are up to par for sports. However, its slightly bulkier shape and weight might be felt on, say, a helmet mount (6.3 oz vs ~5.4 oz for GoPro). And it’s a bit more of a risk if you smash that non-replaceable lens (Insta360’s one-year free lens guard swap helps, but after that you’d pay for repairs). So for most sports enthusiasts, you can’t go wrong with GoPro or DJI – GoPro has the legacy and ecosystem (and many pro athletes already have GoPro mounts on their gear), DJI gives you possibly more footage time and arguably better visuals in tricky lighting (e.g. skiing from bright sun into shady trees). If you’re an FPV drone pilot, note that GoPros are commonly used naked (without battery) on drones; Action5 might be used similarly (with the battery door removed to lighten, as some did with Action2/3). Ace Pro is heavier so less ideal for drone mounting.
• For Travel, Backpacking, and All-day Use: The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro stands out because of its battery life and internal storage. If you’re backpacking through a city or hiking all day, the ability to run longer on one battery is huge – fewer battery swaps on a dusty trail or missing a shot because you were changing batteries. Also, if you forget to clear your SD card and it fills up in the middle of nowhere, that 47GB internal can save the day theverge.com. Its quick-release mount is also nice for travel – you can pop it off a selfie stick and onto a car dash mount quickly as you change scenarios. The GoPro Hero13 is also a strong travel cam – GoPros have arguably the best quick auto-editing via the Quik app if you want to make a story of your trip on the fly, and the GoPro subscription cloud backup means if you have hotel Wi-Fi, you can back up your day’s footage each night unlimited (peace of mind if you’re worried about losing the camera or footage). But you will need to manage battery (carry 2-3 spares or a power bank). The Ace Pro is great for travel too in terms of footage – the low-light and resolution are awesome for capturing diverse scenes (from bright beaches to night markets). Its fast charge means you can top up during a short lunch break with a PD charger – very handy on travel days insta360.com. However, remember it’s heavier – if you’re traveling super light, every ounce counts. Also, some travelers might find the flip screen a bit more fragile (moving parts) compared to static screens; though it’s well-built, you’d want to be a bit careful tossing it in a bag (use a protective case). For family travel or casual use, all three can double as a photo/video camera nicely, but consider simplicity: GoPro and DJI have simpler UI for novice users if you hand it to someone. Insta360’s extra features come with extra menu complexity.
• For Underwater / Diving: The DJI Action 5 Pro wins for snorkelers and free divers given it’s waterproof to 20m without housing theverge.com. You can go twice as deep as the others without needing a bulky case, which covers many recreational dives (though serious scuba at 30m+ still needs a case). It also has good color profiles; though one might still use filters, Action cameras typically require red filters for deep water unless you correct in post. The Ace Pro and GoPro are limited to 10m bare – fine for shallow snorkeling or pool, but if you dive deeper, you must use a dive housing which adds cost and can complicate using the flip screen in Ace’s case. All have modes to optimize underwater: GoPro has an underwater white balance setting; Insta360 Ace Pro 2 introduced an Underwater mode (the original Ace Pro can rely on AI or post editing to correct distortion). But for convenience, DJI is best (less worry about leaks or depth) and its large sensor might capture underwater scenes with a bit more brightness in low-light conditions (like under coral ledges). The Ace Pro in a dive housing can go 60m and Insta360 is known for good underwater image quality (they advertise accurate colors underwater insta360.com). GoPro obviously has a long history of being used for diving too, with great results – but needing that extra case. Underwater, stabilization matters less (water stabilizes movements somewhat) and low-light and color matter more – again leaning to DJI/Ace’s strengths.
• For Professional use / film-making: If you’re a filmmaker or content producer integrating footage from an action cam with other cameras, consider color profiles and lens options. GoPro Hero13 now offers HLG HDR (which is Rec.2100 color) and still has GoPro’s flat Protune if needed. It also offers 10-bit and has that Anamorphic Lens Mod, which is unique – if you want a true 2.35:1 cinematic look optically, GoPro is the only one that does it investor.gopro.com investor.gopro.com. That could be a deciding factor for creative film projects. Also, GoPro’s lens mod hyper-immersive wide FOV could mimic the look of the GoPro Max 360 in some shots (that 177° FOV is extremely wide). The DJI Action5 Pro with its 1/1.3″ sensor might match better with drone footage (as DJI drones often use similar sensor sizes and D-Log profile) – so if you’re a drone pilot capturing aerials and want to cut to POV, the color science continuity could be nice. It has D-Log M which a colorist can grade to match other cameras. And its horizon lock and subject tracking features (it can auto-crop to keep a subject centered in post) might provide some creative possibilities in editing theverge.com theverge.com. The Ace Pro with 8K could be useful if you need to punch in or reframe for different aspect ratios from one shot (e.g., shoot once in 8K, export a 4K landscape and a 4K vertical from the same footage for multi-platform content) insta360.com insta360.com. It also has a Timecode sync feature (Ace Pro 2 added explicit timecode; Ace Pro 1 might not have it, but its app can help syncing multiple cams). If you do multi-cam with Ace Pros, the AI auto highlight feature might help review long clips quickly. However, professionals might be wary of Ace’s durability and support since it’s newer – whereas GoPro is a known quantity on film sets for crash cams, etc., and they have GoPro Labs firmware for advanced controls if needed.

In short, Hero13 Black remains a great all-purpose action cam and is especially recommended if you need the broadest compatibility with accessories or specific creative mods, or if you’re deeply in the GoPro ecosystem (cloud, subscription perks). Osmo Action 5 Pro is ideal for those who prioritize image performance (sensor, battery) and want a top-tier camera at a slightly lower price – perfect for enthusiasts who might have felt limited by GoPro in those areas. It’s arguably the best for someone starting fresh who wants the strongest core specs for the money. Insta360 Ace Pro will appeal to tech-savvy users and creators who appreciate its unique features – if you love the idea of a flip screen like a vlog camera, want to experiment with 8K, and utilize AI tools, the Ace Pro offers something different from the GoPro/DJI duopoly. It’s also somewhat an “early adopter” choice – Insta360 is rapidly iterating (Ace Pro 2 followed within a year), which could be exciting if you like having the latest, but also something to consider in terms of product lifespan.

Latest News and Ecosystem Updates

Since their releases, each camera has seen firmware updates and ecosystem developments worth noting:

• GoPro Hero 13 Black: GoPro has issued firmware updates improving stability and adding minor features. For example, an update in late 2024 optimized the AutoBoost stabilization to reduce occasional horizon jitter and expanded compatibility for more Bluetooth mic models (initially some earbuds had issues, now resolved). GoPro also introduced new accessories like the Magnetic Battery Door (Contacto door) which allows you to charge the camera via a magnetic cable without opening the side door – useful for long recording while keeping it weather-sealed dcrainmaker.com dcrainmaker.com. In the GoPro ecosystem, a notable release was the GoPro Hero 13 Mini in early 2025 (as hinted by GoPro, a follow-up to the Hero11 Mini) – a compact screenless version of the Hero13 for weight-critical uses dcrainmaker.com dcrainmaker.com. If you prefer a smaller form factor and don’t need the front/back screens, that’s an option (though with some feature compromises). GoPro’s subscription service continues to be a value-add: unlimited cloud backup now supports auto-upload of highlight videos that GoPro’s AI creates, and they offered special subscriber deals like a discounted Max Lens Mod 2.0 around the holidays. On social media, the Hero13’s new lens mods gained buzz – creators shared cinematic anamorphic GoPro footage which is novel to see from an action cam (ultra-wide letterboxed shots straight out of camera). Public reception of Hero13 has been positive overall – many call it a “versatile upgrade” with the only criticisms being it’s an evolution, not revolution, over Hero12. As one tech reviewer summed up, “the HERO13 improves quality overall, thanks to its new lenses… [but] these new benefits come with a few downsides” (namely price and that core image sensor is unchanged) gearjunkie.com.
• DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro: DJI rolled out several firmware updates since launch that further refined its performance. Notably, an update improved auto-exposure and color in low-light video, addressing some early feedback that footage could look a bit too HDR-ish by default. They also added a feature where you can calibrate horizon leveling if needed and improved the voice prompt system (the camera can audibly tell you when recording starts/stops, which is helpful when it’s mounted on you and you can’t see the light). A small but appreciated update: you can now use the front screen while recording 4K/60 (initially in some modes the front screen would black out to save power, now you can choose). DJI has been teasing integration with their ecosystem – for example, the DJI Osmo 360 (a 360 camera) was rumored in late 2024 techradar.com. If that comes out, it might share accessories or battery with Action5 Pro (just speculation). In the DJI world, they also released the DJI Mimo App’s LightCut which can auto-edit Action 5 footage on your phone into quick reels, similar to GoPro’s Quik. On the social media front, the Action 5 Pro garnered a lot of praise from the tech community – it’s often touted as “the GoPro killer” in YouTube reviews due to its battery and sensor. A viral TikTok from The Verge showed a battery torture test where after ~1.5 hours of walking, the DJI had ~43% battery left while the GoPro was dead tiktok.com – that certainly shaped some public perception that DJI is the more reliable workhorse for long shoots. DJI’s latest news also includes pushing boundaries with a possible 360° camera and an Osmo Nano tiny cam techradar.com techradar.com – showing DJI’s commitment to the action/camera space beyond drones. None of that diminishes the Action5 Pro, but it means DJI is creating an ecosystem – you might in the future have a DJI 360 cam that pairs well with your Action5 in the app for multi-angle edits.
• Insta360 Ace Pro: The biggest development was the release of the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 in late 2024 (just ~9 months after Ace Pro 1) dcrainmaker.com. The Ace Pro 2 introduced dual AI chips, 8K30 video, a removable lens guard, slightly larger battery, etc. For Ace Pro (first gen) owners, Insta360 didn’t forget them – firmware updates improved stability and added features like Loop Recording (turning it into a dashcam if desired), and customizable Quick Mode switch. They also optimized the AI Highlights editing based on user feedback to better detect exciting moments (like jumps, rapid movements) in action footage. Insta360 gave the Ace Pro a permanent price drop when Pro 2 came, as seen on their store petapixel.com. Also, they expanded the accessory line: a Lens Guard (dive case) for Ace Pro came out, and that slim metal quick release mount became bundled in newer shipments due to user feedback. Public reception of Ace Pro has been generally positive – people love the image quality and flip screen. The main critiques were what we outlined: bulk and first-gen nitpicks. On Insta360’s community forums, some users shared incredible low-light videos with Ace Pro that surprised longtime GoPro users, showing city night scenes with very little noise (that helped build Ace Pro’s rep as a low-light king alongside DJI). Insta360 also heavily markets the Ace Pro for AI features – for example, some YouTube camera reviewers noted how the AI editing can nearly eliminate the need for manual editing for casual users, which could draw in people who find GoPro’s workflow too manual. One RedShark News review said “the image from it is very good once you dial down sharpening…The Ace Pro is stuffed with smart features and image quality to match” redsharknews.com redsharknews.com, underscoring that Insta360 delivered on quality. Looking forward, Insta360’s partnership with Leica is ongoing, and one can expect firmware alignment with Ace Pro 2 (maybe some trickle-down features if hardware allows). The Ace Pro’s presence in the market did challenge GoPro/DJI a bit on innovation, which is good for consumers.

Conclusion

Choosing between the GoPro Hero 13 Black, DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro, and Insta360 Ace Pro ultimately comes down to your priorities and use cases. All three are fantastic action cameras that deliver on the core promise of high-quality, stabilized footage in a tiny, rugged package.

The GoPro Hero 13 Black represents the refinement of a formula GoPro has honed for years: it’s versatile, tough, and backed by the largest accessory ecosystem in the industry. It’s the GoPro you know and love, supercharged with new lens mods and convenient mounting options that make it “the most versatile GoPro ever”. It might not have changed the game in sensor performance, but it did expand what you can do creatively with a GoPro – from cinematic lens effects to easier mounting and pro-oriented features like HLG HDR video investor.gopro.com. If you’re someone who wants reliability, endless mounting choices, and polished ease-of-use, or you already have GoPro gear, the Hero 13 Black won’t disappoint. It’s ideal for those who shoot a bit of everything – adventure sports one day, vlogs the next, travel and family moments in between. Just plan for extra batteries if you’re going on long shoots, and leverage those new mods to get the most out of what it offers. As one reviewer put it, “after using the HERO13 for a month, it’s the best GoPro in years” gearjunkie.com gearjunkie.com – not a revolution, but a clear step up that broadens the GoPro’s capabilities.

The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro has emerged as a formidable GoPro rival, often outmatching the Hero13 in pure performance metrics. It offers stunning image quality (especially in low light), class-leading battery life, and user-friendly features like dual OLED touchscreens and robust built-in storage wired.com theverge.com – all at a slightly lower price. This makes it a tremendous value for enthusiasts and prosumers. If your focus is on capturing the best possible footage with the least hassle (worrying less about battery or lighting conditions), the Action 5 Pro is extremely compelling. It’s the camera you’d pick for a demanding shoot – an all-day hike, a dive trip, a midnight ski session – where you need to trust that it’ll keep rolling and deliver crisp results. The trade-off is mainly in the accessory ecosystem and maybe the subtleties of color tuning, but those are relatively small compromises for what you gain. The public sentiment that “DJI’s latest action camera outruns and outguns GoPro’s” isn’t just hype – in many ways the Action 5 Pro sets a new benchmark for action cams wired.com. It’s the go-to for those who prioritize performance and endurance above all.

The Insta360 Ace Pro injects fresh innovation into the action cam space. It’s the choice for creators and early adopters who want features you can’t get elsewhere – the flip-forward screen, 8K resolution, and powerful AI-assisted shooting. It’s almost like a hybrid between an action cam and a smart camera, merging robust hardware with intelligent software. The Ace Pro can be your one-camera toolkit for creating content: vlog with it, film cinematic B-roll in 4K120, snap 48MP photos, and then let the AI quickly cut a highlight reel for you. It’s ideal for someone who might be doing solo filmmaking or social media content and appreciates the convenience of the AI and the framing flexibility of the flip screen. That said, being a first-gen product, it’s a bit chunkier and pricier, and Insta360 is iterating fast (the Ace Pro 2’s existence means the Ace Pro might not remain the flagship for long). But as PetaPixel noted, the Ace Pro “executes all the features at among the highest levels” petapixel.com – meaning you’re not sacrificing quality to get those smart features. If those unique capabilities align with your needs, the Ace Pro is a rewarding tool. It brings a bit of a different philosophy: rather than just brute hardware, it leverages computational photography and AI. For many tech-savvy users, that’s exciting and points to where action cams are headed.

In conclusion, you really can’t go wrong – all three are winners in 2025’s action camera landscape. The competition has pushed each brand to innovate in their own ways, whether through hardware (big sensors, new mounts) or software (AI, new modes). It comes down to what fits your shooting style:

• Choose the GoPro Hero 13 Black if you want the safest bet with broad versatility – the proven all-rounder that now offers more creative potential than ever, backed by GoPro’s ecosystem and support gearjunkie.com.
• Choose the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro if you value raw performance – best battery, best low-light, and a seamless user experience – at an aggressive price point. It’s arguably the 4K action cam to beat right now amazon.com.
• Choose the Insta360 Ace Pro if you’re an innovator at heart – you want the cutting edge features and are willing to deal with a bit more heft and cost to get an action cam that behaves more like a smart creative partner, offering next-level imaging and AI tricks that can set your content apart.

Whichever you pick, you’ll be getting a state-of-the-art camera that can capture your adventures in stunning quality. With these options, the action cam field has never been more exciting – or competitive. As consumers, we benefit from this showdown of tech titans. So, assess your needs, consider the insights above, and get the camera that sparks your creativity and confidence. Then, get out there and record something epic!

Sources:

• DC Rainmaker – “GoPro Hero 13 Black: Complete Beginner’s Guide” (Sep 2024) – provided detailed feature rundown investor.gopro.com newsshooter.com.
• GoPro Press Release (Sep 4, 2024) – official specs and new features of Hero13 Black investor.gopro.com investor.gopro.com.
• Newsshooter – “GoPro HERO 13 Black unveiled…” – key specs, 5.3K, interchangeable lenses, HyperSmooth 6.0 newsshooter.com newsshooter.com.
• TechRadar – “Massive GoPro Hero 13 leak reveals all” (Mark Wilson, Aug 2024) – preview of Hero13 features techradar.com techradar.com.
• GearJunkie – “GoPro HERO13 Review: Cinema-Quality Features…” (Nov 2024) – hands-on impressions of new lens mods and image quality gearjunkie.com gearjunkie.com.
• Wired – “Review: DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro” (Scott Gilbertson, Oct 2024) – in-depth review praising battery and low-light wired.com wired.com.
• The Verge – “DJI goes pro with latest Osmo Action camera” (Thomas Ricker, Sep 2024) – announcement highlighting 1/1.3″ sensor, 4h recording, 960fps slo-mo theverge.com theverge.com.
• The Verge – “DJI Action 5 Pro vs GoPro Hero13” (Thomas Ricker, Sep 2024) – hands-on comparison quote theverge.com.
• Reddit (r/dji) – user review “My Review of Osmo Action 5 Pro: 2 Months Later” – real-world vlogger perspective on switching from GoPro reddit.com reddit.com.
• 360 Rumors – “DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro: Comprehensive Review” (Sep 2024) – collated insights, mentions competitive landscape with GoPro13 and Ace Pro 360rumors.com 360rumors.com.
• Insta360 Press Release (Blog) – “Meet Insta360 Ace & Ace Pro” (Jul 2024) – official announcement of Ace Pro, Leica partnership, 1/1.3″ sensor, 5nm AI chip, 4K120, 48MP, fast charge insta360.com insta360.com.
• PetaPixel – “Insta360 Ace Pro Review: Impressive Action Cam with AI” (Mar 2024) – review noting strengths in image quality, flip screen, and overall execution petapixel.com petapixel.com.
• Reddit (r/Insta360) – discussion “Ace Pro Review – pros/cons” – user canyonblue737’s summary of Ace Pro as great first-gen with certain pros (low-light, stabilization) and cons (bulk, close focus) reddit.com reddit.com.
• PhotographyTalk – “GoPro Hero 13 Review” (Oct 2024) – mentions Hero13’s new features vs Hero12, improved thermal and lens mods photographytalk.com.
• Android Police – “DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro review: 4K action cam to beat” (Jan 2025) – calls Action5 Pro one of best you can buy, 1/1.3″ sensor and 4K120 support amazon.com.
• RedShark News – “Insta360 Ace Pro reviewed: features and image quality” (Apr 2024) – commends image once sharpening adjusted, Leica lens, calls it deserving of Leica name redsharknews.com redsharknews.com.

investor.gopro.com newsshooter.com wired.com reddit.com