The ultimate 360° action camera: Insta360 X3 / X4 and GoPro MAX

Although most cameras capture a portion of the world for posterity, models with dual lenses take an opposite approach. The 360° cameras capture everything around them, allowing the viewing angle to be adjusted afterwards. In collaboration with appropriate software, video editing is greatly facilitated and enhanced. The result is unique footage that would otherwise be impossible or only achievable with great effort.
In the world of action cameras, two names stand at the top: Insta360 and GoPro. These two companies have conquered the market with high-quality cameras that accompany adventurers around the world. Today, we take a closer look at three of their flagship models: the Insta360 X3, the X4, and the GoPro MAX. Which is the better choice for your adventures? Let’s make a comparison.

1. Specifications

When looking at the technical specifications (only the most important ones were summarized), the Insta360 appears to be superior. She has larger sensors in both lenses, which enable capturing more details and colors even in low light conditions.
The X3 offers more unique features and video modes, raising the valid question of whether these are truly useful or just gimmicks.
In spite of the initial impression, one should not underestimate the GoPro MAX. Finally, the company has nearly two decades of experience in developing action cameras and has invested heavily in the development of its own sensor and color technology.

1.1 Photo

Both the X3 and the MAX are primarily designed for videos but can also capture 360° photos.
The MAX can capture 360° photos at 18MP and also features a panoramic mode called PowerPano.
In comparison, the X3 has a resolution of 23MP and offers more photo modes, including HDR photos and “Pureshot,” which automatically enhances the quality of your photos using AI. In addition, it is possible to capture DNG RAW images.

1.2 Video

Both cameras record 360-degree videos with a maximum resolution of 5.7K at 30 frames per second. However, the X3 features larger sensors, enabling the capture of more details, which is also reflected in images that appear more colorful and dynamic.
In good lighting conditions, the difference is often small, but when photographing in poor light conditions, the difference becomes more apparent, and you will notice that the X3 tends to perform better than the MAX.
Additionally, the Insta360 X3 features an HDR video mode that automatically enhances video quality, reduces overexposure, and highlights details in the shadows. Unfortunately, this mode is missing on the GoPro MAX.

1.2.1 Stabilization

It’s the amazing ability to stabilize videos almost perfectly that makes 360° cameras so popular as action cameras. With 360-degree cameras, you can capture the craziest action shots, and your video always remains smooth.
Insta360 calls its stabilization software FlowState, and GoPro MAX calls theirs Hypersmooth, but both achieve the same thing.
As tests have shown, videos are equally well stabilized on both cameras. Both also feature a horizon lock, which keeps the horizon perfectly aligned even when you rotate the camera.

1.2.2 Single-lens video

Both the X3 and the GoPro MAX feature a single-lens mode, allowing you to capture standard videos with your cameras. You practically get two cameras in one, a 360° camera and a standard action camera.
The single lens mode of the GoPro Max is called “Hero Mode,” named after the Hero series of GoPro action cameras. With this mode, you can record 1440p videos at 60fps. The stabilization also works here and the result looks good.
The Insta360 X3 can capture 4K single-lens videos at 30fps or 3.6K at 60fps. The higher resolution indeed makes a difference, and the X3 records overall higher quality single-lens videos. Furthermore, it also provides more options for angles, including an Ultra Wide Angle FOV+ option.
Another unique video mode found on the X3 is the “Selfi Mode,” which automatically focuses on the user. A great way to ensure that you stay in the picture without any editing.

1.3 Design

Both 360° action cameras have some similarities. They have a rubberized housing, feature dual sensors, and both have a touchscreen for manual control.
The MAX has manual buttons for activation and the shutter release. The camera is completely waterproof up to 5m and has 6 microphones.
The GoPro MAX is shorter but wider and features a smaller screen. The larger screen of the X3 makes it easier to use and to preview media.
The X3 also has a shutter release, an on/off button, a button for quick selection of user-defined profiles and a button for switching between 360° mode and the inner/outer lens. The X3 is also waterproof, but up to 10m.

1.4 Editor

Compared to standard cameras, 360° cameras allow you to be amazingly creative. This allows you to manipulate your video in almost limitless ways after recording. All of this is achieved in the editing process, either in the app or the editor.
The GoPro MAX app features a decent video editor for reframing your 360° videos. It is easy to use and learn and allows you to be creative with your recordings. The app also features a vlog creator that can combine various clips and add transitions, text, and music.
The Insta360 app is more complex in comparison but also offers far more unique effects and a more advanced video editor. An AI editor additionally enables you to automatically create unique shots, reframe your videos without editing, and even focus on a specific object in your video.
Overall, the Insta360 app maximizes what 360° cameras have to offer, but the higher complexity can also lead to a longer learning process. The MAX app has hardly been updated since its release, but it is slimmer.
Both companies offer a free desktop editor. In both cases, there are unfortunately fewer special effects, but they allow you to export your videos in higher resolution and quality.

2. Comparison between Insta360 X3 and X4

Disadvantages X4 zu X3:
• more color noise in areas with low contrast, such as asphalt or concrete
• standard color profile saturation and contrast are perceived as slightly too high
• poor light conditions lead to more noise with 8K, but more details are captured
• lens protection can lead to glare effects
• plastic lens protectors can attract dust

Advantages X4 zu X3:
• more details are captured
• higher frame rate with slow motion
• better image quality
• more color accuracy
• up to 30 min recording without gaps
• new, integrated Stitching Mode
• interchangeable lens protection, in the premium version made of glass
• simpler and more convenient operation

3. Conclusion

When the GoPro Max was released, it was way ahead of its time, which speaks volumes for GoPro. Now it’s time to step up.
GoPro plans to release a Max 2, but it’s unclear when it will happen. With the X3, Insta360 has already made a statement. However, the recently launched successor to the X3, the X4, with 8K 360° mode, sets new standards.
In summary, it can be said that the Insta360 X3 offers more video modes, as well as more powerful hardware and software, enabling the user to be more creative. The price difference between the GoPro MAX and the X3 is not significant, hence the conclusion that with the X3, you get more value for your money. The X4 expands the playing field, but is also the most expensive of the three cameras. For getting started in the world of 360° cameras, the GoPro MAX or the Insta360 X3 are sufficient.