Insta360 X3 vs GoPro Max: Battle of the top 360 Action Cameras
It seems like you’re on the hunt for the perfect 360 action camera, and I’m here to help you pick your perfect match!
Let’s dive into a comparison of two popular options – the Insta360 X3 and the GoPro Max.
At the end of the article I’ll tell you which one I bought for myself and why. And what would make me buy the other brand also.
Insta360 X3 vs GoPro MAX Comparison Chart
| Feature | Insta360 X3 | GoPro MAX |
|---|---|---|
| Video Quality | 5.7K @ 30fps/4K @ 60fps/2K @ 120fps | 5.6K @ 30fps/3K @ 60fps/2K @ 120fps |
| Photo Megapixels | 18MP photos HDR | 16.6MP photos |
| Photo Resolution (Max) | 72MP (6912 x 3456) | 16.6MP (5760 x 2880) |
| Sensor size | 1/2 “ | 1/2.3 “ |
| Image Stabilization | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Life | 1800mAh battery life | 1600mAh battery life |
| Single lens | 4K@ 30fps 3.6K@60fps | 1440p @ 30fps 1080p @ 60fps |
| Waterproof Depth Rating (without case) | 10m/33ft (IPX8 rated) | 5m/16ft (IPX8 rated) |
| Audio | 3 mics | 6 mics |
| Price | $449.99 | $499.00 |
| Unique Features | HDR photo and video, time-shift, me mode |
Similarities
- Action cameras
- 360 cameras – video and photo
- Waterproof
- Multiple accessories
Both are popular action cams that are becoming even more popular due to its 360 shooting and ability to “shoot, then point” (Reframe video after shooting).
Many of the GoPro accessories work on Insta360 with addition of 1/4 inch mounting screw that is a common mount for many cameras.
And although both are waterproof, it’s probably best to use a dive case (which both have as accessories) if you are doing any quick movements in the water (increases pressure on seals).
Both of these 360 cameras can use “invisible” selfie sticks that make the stick disappear, and that link was my article on options.
Video quality comparison
Both have a maximum resolution near 5.7K and 30fps for 360 videos, so they are on par in terms of video quality for 360 video. Both cameras also feature impressive stabilization technology, which helps reduce the effects of shaky footage and ensures smooth playback.
The Insta360 X3 is capable of recording slow motion footage at up to 120fps in 4K resolution, while the GoPro Max can only record at 60fps in 4K resolution. The Insta360 X3 also supports HDR for improved dynamic range when shooting in bright conditions.
360 VR travel video example shot with 360 camera
Single Lens Mode
The Insta360 X3 and GoPro Max both offer single-lens video capabilities, but they differ in terms of resolution and frame rate.
The Insta360 X3 boasts a 4K resolution at 30fps. In contrast, the GoPro Max offers a slightly lower resolution of 1440p at 30 FPS in its “Hero Mode” inspired by the renowned Hero range of action cameras.
On the other hand, the Insta360 X3 also offers a 3.6K resolution at 60fps, giving users the flexibility to choose between higher resolution or smoother motion, and is superior to GoPro at both faster and slower frame rates.
But numbers aren’t everything and some people swear the single mode version of GoPro looks better, probably because GoPro is the master of single lens action cameras.
Photos
360 cams do unique pictures that regular cameras cannot, so for those styles like the one below with “invisible” selfie stick and “tiny planet” photos, then a 360 cam the only way to go.
Insta360 X3 does 18MP HDR whereas GoPro only does 16.6 MP. Insta360 does have a 72MP mode for photos but pixel quality isnt the greatest.
Unless you plan on keeping the pictures in immersive 360 VR or these unique perspectives, I would say that regular photos are not the strength of either of these cameras.
Due to the fact that when you “reframe” and cut picture from entire 360 sphere into a “regular” photo, then resolution drops quickly.
A regular camera ( such as the Sony RX VII) or even a regular non 360 action camera (such as a GoPro Hero line) would be way better, if you are willing to carry another camera around. Or just use your phone if it is a high end newer one.
Related article: the many reasons to use a 360 camera rather than a regular camera and vice versa.
However, the picture quality is rapidly getting better with each iteration of the X3. But I would recommend the Insta360 RS 1 inch 360 edition if you plan on doing a lot of 360 photos or videos in low light and that link is the article about that.
Mode comparison
The Insta360 X3 is more feature-rich than the GoPro Max.
Especially since Insta360 X3 getting many software and firmware upgrades frequently, whereas I read that the GoproMax has not especially in the last year.
Insta360 X3 modes and features that GoPro Max doesn’t have
- slow motion capabilities/ Bullet Time
- AI-driven editing modes in phone app
- RAW
- HDR photo and video
- Me Mode
Here’s an article on the many things that Insta360 X3 can do.
Insta360 AI mode in app
Here is an example of a video reframed by the AI in the app, and then I was able to add text and music in app also as well as color correction and other editing.
Price of Insta360 X3 vs GoPro Max
$449 Insta360 X3 vs GoPro Maxx $499 MSRP
Despite Insta360 X3 being much newer and better in many aspects, the GoPro price is inexplicably more, which makes it less value for the money. However, the GoPro does go on sale more often since it’s an older product, and I have seen it at $399.
My recommendation and choice of Insta360 X3 vs GoPro Max
Given that Insta360 X3 has many superior features and is even cheaper than GoPro Max (unless it’s on sale), I think the Insta360 is a better value for the money at this point.
I do own a GoPro Hero 8, but given Insta360 X3 superior 360 capabilities and software, I bought the Insta360 X3 instead of the GoPro Max. I wrote a blog on why I use my Insta360 X3 for travelling.
The GoPro Max is a good camera, and for someone who is in the GoPro ecosystem of software and apps, it is a good choice, especially if it’s on sale.
It is, however, showing its age since it came out in 2019, and Insta360 has come out with the Insta360 One X2 and X3 since GoPro Max launched in 2019.
In fact when the Gopro Max first came out it was better than Insta360 device at the time. ( It was the Insta360 One X, which is now a budget 360 cam @ $259, but not worth it my opinion and better to get newer version, even if its the Insta360 One X2 at only $40 more when on sale)
Future Insta360 X and Gopro Max models?
I would definitely consider getting a GoPro Max 2, and Gopro has announced they are working on it in the GoPro 12 announcement in 2023.
But by 2024 I also expect to hear about Insta360 X4, which would be out a little after mid 2024 if it follows the regular 2 year pattern.
