GoPro Max vs Insta360 X3 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Why Do I Recommend The Insta360 X3? 

• The Insta360 X3 has a 1/2″ image sensor for improved low-light performance, enhanced dynamic range, and sharper video quality compared to the GoPro Max’s older 1/2.3″ sensors.
• Insta360 X3 features 72MP 360 photo capture for ultra-high-resolution stills to crop and zoom with exceptional detail, compared to the GoPro Max’s 16.6MP limit.
• It includes Active HDR for better highlight and shadow detail in 360 videos, which enhances visual clarity and dynamic range where the GoPro Max lacks HDR support.
• The Insta360 X3 has a larger 2.29″ touchscreen for easier framing, menu navigation, and playback control compared to the GoPro Max’s smaller 1.7″ screen.
• Insta360 X3 supports a higher 120Mbps video bitrate for clearer textures and richer image data, superior visual fidelity compared to the GoPro Max’s 78Mbps limit.
• It features 4K single-lens video recording for higher resolution standard footage, more flexible use outside of 360 capture compared to the GoPro Max’s 1440p.
• The Insta360 X3 supports removable lens guards to protect lenses during action use, while the GoPro Max lacks.
• Insta360 X3 supports microSD cards up to 1TB for extended recording time and higher-capacity workflows, while the GoPro Max is limited to 256GB cards.

Maybe the GoPro Max price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Insta360 X3. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

What Common Both Can Do?

• 360° Video Capture: Both the Insta360 X3 and GoPro Max are dual-lens cameras designed for immersive 360° video shooting, enabling users to capture everything around them and reframe footage afterward.
• High-Resolution 360 Video: Each camera supports high-resolution 360 video recording—5.7K on the X3 and 5.6K on the Max—providing sharp and detailed spherical footage.
• Single-Lens Mode: Both devices include a single-lens mode for traditional wide-angle capture, allowing the cameras to function like a regular action camera.
• RAW Photo Support: Both cameras support RAW image capture in addition to standard JPG, enabling greater flexibility in post-processing for photographers.
• MP4 Video Format: Each camera records video in MP4 format (for single-lens modes), making them compatible with most editing software and devices.
• Color Touchscreen: Both feature a color touchscreen display for previewing shots, changing settings, and navigating menus—although the size and usability differ.
• Waterproof Without Housing: Both are waterproof without external housing—up to 10 meters (33ft) for the X3 and 5 meters (16ft) for the Max—suitable for water sports or rainy conditions.
• Removable Battery: Both feature user-replaceable batteries, allowing extended shooting with spare batteries on hand.
• Voice Control: Both models support voice commands to control shooting, switch modes, and perform other functions hands-free—ideal for action or mounted use.
• GPS Capability: While the GoPro Max includes built-in GPS and the X3 requires a phone connection, both are capable of geotagging footage and overlaying telemetry data.
• Wireless Connectivity: Both use Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to sync with companion apps, enable wireless transfer, and support firmware updates.
• USB-C Port: Both use a USB-C port for charging and data transfer, supporting modern accessories and fast charging.
• microSD Storage: Each supports microSD cards for recording footage—important for handling large 360 video files.
• Live Streaming: Both allow live-streaming to platforms like YouTube or Facebook, with reframed or 360 views in real-time, enhancing content delivery for creators.
• Webcam Mode: Both cameras can function as webcams when connected via USB, offering an ultra-wide or 360 webcam option.
• Mobile App Support: The Insta360 App and GoPro Quik App are both available on iOS and Android, allowing wireless control, editing, reframing, and sharing from a smartphone.