GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5: 360 Camera Showdown
Complete comparison of GoPro Max 2, DJI Osmo 360, and Insta360 X5. We analyze sensor size, image quality, lens replacement, and real-world performance.
| Spec | GoPro Max 2 | DJI Osmo 360 |
|---|---|---|
| Screen | 1.82" Touch LCD | 2.0 inches OLED
Resolution: 314×556
Brightness: 800 cd/㎡ |
| Microphones | 6 | 4 |
| Weight | 195 g | 183 g |
| Dimensions | 64.0×69.7×48.7 mm (W×H×D) | 61×36.3×81 mm (L×W×H) |
| Sensor | 1/2.3-inch | 1/1.1-inch CMOS |
| Aperture | F1.8 | f/1.9 |
| ISO Range | Video: 100-6400
Photo: 100-3200
Night: 100-800 | 100-51200 |
| FOV | 360° (360 mode)
Min 14mm - Max 26mm (35mm equivalent) | Panorama: 360°
Single-Lens: 170° |
| Photo Resolution | 360: 29MP (7680×3840)
Single-Lens: 12MP (4000×3000) | Panorama 2:1, 15520 × 7760 (120 MP)
Single-Lens Photo: 4:3, 6400 × 4800 (30.72 MP) |
| Video Resolution | 360 Mode:
8K: 7680×3840 @30/25/24fps
5.6K: 5376×2688 @60/50/30/25fps
4K: 3328×1664 @100/90/60/50fps
Single-Lens:
4K (16:9): 3840×2160 @60/50/30/25/24fps
4K (9:16): 2160×3840 @60/50/30/25/24fps
4K (4:3): 4000×3000 @60/50/30/25/24fps
1080p (16:9): 1920×1080 @60/50fps
1080p (9:16): 1080×1920 @60/50fps | Panorama
8K: 7680×3840 @24/25/30/48/50fps
6K: 6000×3000 @24/25/30/48/50/60fps
4K: 3840×1920 @100fps
Single-Lens
5K (4:3): 5120×3840 @25/30/50/60fps
5K (16:9): 5120×2880 @25/30/50/60fps
4K (4:3): 3840×2880 @25/30/50/60fps
4K (16:9): 3840×2160 @25/30/50/60fps |
| Video Bitrate | 120 Mbps | 170 Mbps |
| Video Codec | H.265 (HEVC) | H.265 |
| Log Profile | 8-Bit, 10-Bit
GP-Log with LUT | 10-bit D-Log M |
| Video Format | 360: .360
Single-Lens: .MP4 | OSV, MP4 (H.265) |
| Audio Recording | WAV Format (Single Lens mode)
6-microphones
Stereo, 360 Audio
Wind Noise Reduction
Directional Audio | 48 kHz 16-bit; AAC |
| Stabilization | Max HyperSmooth with 360° Horizon Lock | RockSteady 3.0, HorizonSteady |
| Waterproof | 5 m (16 ft) | 10 m underwater |
| Battery | 1960mAh Enduro Battery | Capacity: 1950 mAh; Energy: 7.5 Wh; Voltage: 3.87 V |
| Operating Time | 66 mins (8K/30fps)
90 mins (5.6K/60fps) | 100 mins (8K/30fps panoramic video)
190 mins (6K/24fps panoramic video) |
| Charge Time | 120 mins to 100% | 20 mins to 75%, 45 mins to 100% |
| Storage | External microSD | Built-in 128GB (105GB available)
External microSD up to 1 TB |
| Wi‑Fi | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac); 2.4GHz/5GHz | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ax); 2.4/5.1/5.8 GHz |
| Bluetooth | BLE 5.3 | BLE 5.1 |
| Ports | USB-C (3.0) | USB-C 3.1 |
| App Support | GoPro | DJI Mimo |
| Replaceable-Lens | Yes (Change in Field) | No, only via factory return |
| Pre-recording | — | 5/10/15/30 s; 1/2/5 mins |
The 360-degree camera market heats up with three flagship models competing for your attention. The GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 comparison reveals distinct approaches to 360° imaging. Each camera targets different user priorities, making your choice dependent on specific needs rather than a clear winner.
Sensor Size: The Key Differentiator
The most significant difference in the GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 comparison lies in sensor size. The DJI Osmo 360 features the largest 1/1.1-inch CMOS sensor, followed by Insta360 X5's 1/1.28-inch sensor, while GoPro Max 2 uses a smaller 1/2.3-inch sensor.
Larger sensors capture more light, resulting in better image quality in challenging conditions. The DJI Osmo 360's sensor advantage delivers superior dynamic range and color depth. This difference becomes evident when comparing the GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 in identical shooting scenarios.
Daytime Performance: Surprisingly Close
Daytime performance in the GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 comparison shows minimal differences. All three deliver excellent 8K video with vibrant colors and sharp details. The DJI Osmo 360 shoots 8K at 50fps, while the GoPro Max 2 and Insta360 X5 reach 30fps.
Despite sensor size variations, computational photography helps level the playing field in good lighting. Each manufacturer's algorithms optimize their respective hardware effectively. Casual users will find the daytime image quality differences negligible when comparing the GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5.
Low-Light and Night Performance: The Great Divide
Night performance reveals the biggest gaps in the GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 comparison. Sensor size dominates here - the DJI Osmo 360's 1/1.1-inch sensor captures substantially more light, delivering cleaner footage with minimal noise.
The Insta360 X5 performs well in low light but trails the DJI slightly. The GoPro Max 2's smaller sensor struggles more noticeably despite aggressive noise reduction. While software helps maintain clean images, it sacrifices fine detail.
For low-light shooting, the GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 comparison clearly favors the cameras with larger sensors. Expect the GoPro to show more grain and reduced dynamic range in challenging conditions.
Weight and Portability: Every Gram Counts
Weight differences matter for extended use. In the GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 lineup, the GoPro Max 2 weighs 195 grams, Insta360 X5 at 200 grams, and DJI Osmo 360 at 183 grams. While the DJI is technically lightest, the GoPro Max 2 offers an excellent balance of weight and functionality for mounting on helmets, drones, and other accessories.
Lens Replacement: Critical for Field Use
Lens serviceability varies dramatically in the GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 comparison:
GoPro Max 2: Tool-free lens replacement in the field. Scratch a lens during adventure? Swap it immediately using just your fingers.
Insta360 X5: Replaceable lenses requiring specialized tools and controlled environment. Not practical for field repairs.
DJI Osmo 360: Sealed design requiring factory service for lens replacement.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the GoPro Max 2's field-serviceable design provides significant peace of mind in harsh environments.
Video Capabilities: 8K Recording
The GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 all support 8K video, with notable differences. The DJI Osmo 360 leads with 8K up to 50fps and 6K at 60fps. Both the GoPro Max 2 and Insta360 X5 offer 8K at 30fps. For single-lens 4K shooting, the GoPro Max 2 and DJI Osmo 360 reach 100fps for slow-motion effects.
Stabilization and Battery Life
All three cameras in the GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 comparison feature excellent stabilization. The GoPro Max 2 uses Max HyperSmooth, DJI employs RockSteady 3.0, and Insta360 uses FlowState. Real-world differences are minimal for most users.
Battery performance varies: the GoPro Max 2 (1960mAh) runs about 66 minutes at 8K, the DJI Osmo 360 (1950mAh) delivers impressive 100 minutes at 8K, and the Insta360 X5 (2400mAh) leads with 135 minutes at 5.7K. The DJI's power efficiency stands out despite smaller capacity.
Professional Features and Waterproofing
For professional workflows, the GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 offer different color profiles. The DJI Osmo 360 features 10-bit D-Log M for maximum grading flexibility. The GoPro Max 2 provides 10-bit GP-Log, while the Insta360 X5 offers I-Log.
Waterproof ratings differ significantly: Insta360 X5 reaches 15 meters, DJI Osmo 360 handles 10 meters, and GoPro Max 2 manages 5 meters. For underwater content, the Insta360 X5 provides the most depth capability.
Audio quality varies too. The GoPro Max 2 features six microphones with wireless audio support, while both the DJI Osmo 360 and Insta360 X5 use four-microphone arrays.
Software and Storage
The GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 offer different editing experiences. Insta360 provides the most mature mobile app with AI features and templates, ideal for social media creators. DJI offers professional desktop software for advanced color grading. GoPro delivers the familiar Quik app with cloud integration.
Storage differs significantly. The DJI Osmo 360 includes 128GB built-in storage plus microSD expansion, eliminating mid-shoot storage worries. Both the GoPro Max 2 and Insta360 X5 rely on microSD cards only.
Pricing: What You Pay
The GoPro Max 2 ($499) enters as the most affordable in this comparison, while both the DJI Osmo 360 and Insta360 X5 retail at $549. The $50 difference isn't substantial when considering total costs with accessories.
Which Camera Wins in Different Scenarios?
When evaluating the GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 for specific use cases:
Adventure Sports and Outdoor Activities: The GoPro Max 2 excels with its field-replaceable lenses and rugged design philosophy. Scratched a lens on a rock? Swap it out immediately without tools.
Low-Light and Night Photography: The DJI Osmo 360 dominates thanks to its 1/1.1-inch sensor. The larger sensor captures significantly more light, producing cleaner footage in challenging conditions.
Travel Vlogging: The Insta360 X5 shines with its longest battery life (135 minutes) and mature software ecosystem packed with AI editing features.
Underwater Content: The Insta360 X5's 15-meter waterproof rating provides the most depth capability in the GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 comparison.
Professional Video Production: The DJI Osmo 360's 10-bit D-Log M and superior sensor make it the choice for serious videographers requiring maximum post-production flexibility.
Budget-Conscious Creators: The GoPro Max 2 at $499 offers solid 8K performance at the lowest entry price.
The Final Verdict
The GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 comparison reveals no universal winner - each camera excels in different areas.
Choose the DJI Osmo 360 if image quality matters most. Its large 1/1.1-inch sensor delivers the best low-light performance and dynamic range. The 10-bit D-Log M and built-in 128GB storage add professional convenience. It's the clear choice for serious content creators.
Choose the Insta360 X5 for the complete package. It balances excellent image quality with superior waterproofing, longest battery life, and the most mature software. The well-rounded approach makes it ideal for most users.
Choose the GoPro Max 2 if field serviceability is crucial. The tool-free lens replacement system is genuinely innovative. Combined with six microphones and wireless audio support, it's perfect for adventurers who need a camera they can maintain anywhere. The lower price helps too.
Bottom Line
The GoPro Max 2 vs DJI 360 vs Insta360 X5 comparison shows daytime performance is remarkably similar despite sensor differences. Computational photography bridges the gap effectively in good lighting.
Low-light performance separates these cameras. The GoPro Max 2's smaller sensor shows noticeable disadvantages against the DJI Osmo 360 and Insta360 X5 in night scenarios. This limitation matters for mixed-lighting shooters.
The GoPro Max 2's tool-free lens replacement provides genuine advantages for adventurers. Remote lens swaps impossible with the sealed DJI or tool-required Insta360 designs.
Your choice depends on priorities: low-light quality (DJI Osmo 360), all-around performance (Insta360 X5), or field serviceability and value (GoPro Max 2). All three deliver impressive 8K 360° capabilities.