The Gopro Max is GoPro’s flagship 360 camera, offering versatile photo and video capabilities in a rugged, compact form factor. This in-depth review covers everything you need to know about the GoPro Max 360 camera.

Overview of the GoPro Max 360 Camera

GoPro revolutionized action cameras when it released its first model back in 2004. Since then, the company has continued to push the boundaries of what compact cameras can do, especially with video. After releasing 360 cameras like the Fusion and Omni, GoPro aimed to perfect the concept with the GoPro Max.

Released in October 2019, the GoPro Max represents the pinnacle of GoPro’s engineering efforts in the 360 camera space. It builds on lessons from previous models to create its most advanced and versatile 360 action camera yet.

So, what exactly does the GoPro Max bring to the table? Here are the highlights:

• Shoots immersive 360 video up to 6K resolution
• Additional Hero mode for traditional perspective video
• Rugged, waterproof design up to 16 feet
• Advanced Max HyperSmooth stabilization
• 270° panoramic PowerPano photos
• 1440p and 1080p slo-mo support
• Removable lenses with protective covers
• Intuitive touch screen interface
• Voice control for hands-free operation
• Compatible with a huge range of GoPro mounts and accessories

The GoPro Max is available on GoPro’s website for $349.99 just for the camera or in bundles with accessories starting at $444.97.

With these features and specs, the GoPro Max clearly represents an impressive refinement of GoPro’s 360 camera capabilities into one compact, versatile action cam. Next, we’ll take a deeper look at how it performs for shooting everything from 360 video to standard digital photos.

Shooting Capabilities of the GoPro Max

The GoPro Max offers an incredibly versatile set of features for capturing immersive 360 content, standard perspective video, and creative photos. Let’s break down its shooting modes and options:

360 Video

The GoPro Max shines when it comes to 360 video. It can shoot 360 footage at up to 6K resolution with a high bitrate up to 78Mbps. This produces incredibly immersive, high quality 360 videos that look crisp when viewed in VR headsets or platforms like YouTube and Facebook.

You can also shoot 360 video at 5.6K and 3K resolutions if you need to save space. The lower 3K setting enables recording 360 videos at 60fps for smooth slow motion playback.

One of the coolest features is that the Max automatically stitches the footage from both lenses in-camera to create a seamless 360 video. This saves a lot of time in post production. The software is also smart enough to hide the grip or selfie stick in 360 videos so it doesn’t distract viewers.

HERO Mode Video

In addition to 360 capture, the Max has a Hero mode that lets you shoot conventional perspective video using one lens. You can shoot up to 1440p and 1080p video at 60fps in Hero mode, giving you slo-mo capabilities missing from GoPro’s flagship Hero models.

Hero mode also features GoPro’s signature ultra wide field of view for thrilling point-of-view footage. You can switch between the front and rear lenses while recording.

Photo Modes

For photos, the GoPro Max offers both 360 and standard perspectives. 360 photos clocks in at a massive 5760 x 2880 resolution with brilliant color and crisp details.

For standard shots, the Max supports up to 16.6MP photos. It also offers GoPro’s unique PowerPano mode that captures 270-degree panoramic shots without having to pan the camera.

You get four digital lenses to choose from in Hero mode – Narrow, Linear, Wide, and Max SuperView. Max SuperView provides an insanely wide perspective, even wider than previous GoPro cameras.

Additional Shooting Features

• Close focusing distance of 10cm using macro mode
• Exposure compensation up to +/- 2 stops
• RAW photo capture
• ISO range up to 3200
• Burst rates up to 30 fps
• Night lapse photo and video modes
• Live streaming up to 1080p resolution

As you can see, the GoPro Max has an incredibly versatile set of shooting modes and options that let you capture unique 360, panoramic, and standard footage. It has settings to handle any scenario or environment an adrenaline junkie could throw at it. Next, we’ll look at how it achieves gimbal-like stabilization.

Stabilization and Audio Capabilities

Excellent stabilization is critical with a camera designed for action sports and fast movement. The GoPro Max features breakthrough stabilization technology to deliver gimbal-like smoothness without the gimbal.

GoPro Max HyperSmooth Stabilization

The headline feature is Max HyperSmooth stabilization. It’s GoPro’s most advanced electronic stabilization yet, designed specifically for 360 footage.

Max HyperSmooth uses the ultra wide 360 capture from both lenses as a buffer to smoothly stabilize all your footage. It eliminates bumps and jerky movements, even when mountain biking down rugged trails or kayaking choppy rapids.

You also get horizon leveling in both 360 and Hero modes to keep the horizon steady regardless of the camera orientation. This saves a lot of time fixing crooked horizons in post.

Immersive 360 Audio

To complement the 360 video, the GoPro Max features immersive 360 audio thanks to its 6 built-in microphones. It captures sound in all directions to make your videos completely immersive.

The mics use advanced wind-noise reduction algorithms to filter out distracting wind noise when you’re on the slopes or trails. An auto audio mode also seamlessly switches between stereo and 360 audio.

Directional Audio

When shooting in Hero mode, the GoPro Max activates a directional audio feature. This lets you prioritize sound from either the front or rear lens you are using to get clearer audio for vlogging or standard videos.

Overall, the stabilized 360 gimbal-like footage combined with immersive spatial audio gives the Max some of the most advanced capabilities for crafting engaging first-person videos packed with dynamic motion and sound.

Design and Handling

In addition to its versatile shooting features, the GoPro Max sports a robust design and easy handling that builds on GoPro’s history as the leader in action cameras.

Rugged, Waterproof Construction

The GoPro Max features a tough rubberized exterior that’s waterproof down to 16 feet without a case required. This rugged construction allows you to mount it on helmets, bikes, surfboards, and more without worry.

It’s compact and lightweight at only 2.8oz, making it easy to mount just about anywhere with a GoPro mount. The lenses have removable protective covers to prevent scratches.

Intuitive Touchscreen Interface

A large touchscreen on the back of the camera provides an intuitive interface for changing modes and settings on the fly. It makes framing shots simple, especially for selfies.

The shortcuts and menus are optimized for one-handed use even with gloves on. You can also rotate the display orientation as needed.

Voice Control

One of the coolest features is voice control. The Max supports 14 different voice commands for hands-free operation. Just say “GoPro start recording” and it will begin capturing footage based on your mode settings.

Voice control works well even in noisy environments. The Max can understand commands in over 10 languages too.

Additional Handling Features

• Built-in folding fingers for mounting without a case
• Settings for single-tap camera shortcuts
• Orientation sensing auto-switch front/rear display
• On-screen shortcuts to favorite settings
• Dedicated record button for quick access

With its rugged design, articulating touchscreen, and convenient voice control, the Max is built for easy one-handed use whether you’re mountain biking, surfing, or even just walking around.

GoPro Max vs Other Camera Models

How does the Max compare to other GoPro and 360 camera models in terms of features and performance? Here’s a rundown:

GoPro Max vs GoPro Hero 10

The Hero 10 is GoPro’s current flagship single-lens action camera. It lacks 360 capabilities but provides:

• Higher resolution 5.3K non-360 video
• Faster 120fps slow motion at 4K
• 23MP photos vs 16MP on the Max
• Longer battery life up to 70 minutes
• Higher frame rate TimeWarp timelapse
• Higher bitrate 100Mbps video

However, the Max has much better stabilization with 360 capture, greater mounting flexibility, and a wider angle lens. The Max is the better choice if 360 video/photos are a priority.

GoPro Max vs. Insta360 One X

The One X is a key 360 camera competitor to the Max. The One X offers:

• Higher 18MP resolution for 360 photos
• Faster flows state stabilization
• Better mobile editing app with more features
• Lower price point at $299

However, the Max has greater durability, underwater housing, Pro-level build quality, and access to tons of GoPro mounts. The Max hardware is better for hardcore use.

GoPro Max 2 Rumored

GoPro is rumored to be working on a new Max 360 camera that could arrive in 2023. Expected updates include:

• Higher resolution 5.7K or 6K 360 video
• Increased frame rates up to 120fps
• New color touchscreen and interface
• Improved stabilization with horizon lock
• Revamped mobile app and editing workflow

If true, the Max 2 could address shortcomings like lower resolutions and dated software. However, existing Max owners can still capture amazing 360 content.

Conclusion – Who Should Buy the GoPro Max?

After covering all of its capabilities, who is the GoPro Max 360 camera ideal for? Here are our final recommendations:

Best Uses

• 360 videography – It excels at capturing immersive, stabilized 360 video at up to 6K resolution. The quality beats lower-end consumer 360 cameras.
• Action sports and POV footage – The rugged design and accessories make the Max perfect for mounting on helmets, bikes, boards etc. The stabilization keeps footage smooth in rough conditions.
• Underwater video – The waterproofing without a case allows diving down to 16 feet for scuba and watersports videography.
• VR content creation – The high quality 360 footage shines when viewed on VR headsets like Oculus for an interactive experience.
• Vlogging and self-capturing – The front LCD screen and microphone make it great for selfie-style video blogging.

Purchase Recommendations

The Max is sold at $399 for the camera alone. However, you’ll want to budget at least $499 to include essential accessories like batteries, a microSD card, mounts etc.

Purchasing a used or refurbished Max can save you money, often $100 or more off retail pricing. Just be sure to buy from a reputable source like MPB.com that tests condition and offers a warranty.

While rumors of a Max 2 announcement persist, the current model remains highly capable for 360 video, especially at discounted pricing. For most consumers, the Max delivers all the 360 performance they need.

Final Verdict

If you’re seeking a versatile, durable, stable and high-quality 360 camera to capture unique perspectives, the GoPro Max is one of today’s best options. Its refined design makes 360 videography easier for amateur and professional content creators.