360 Camera in India: Insta360 X3 vs GoPro MAX, Which to Buy

If you want the sharper 360 picture, a bigger screen and deeper waterproofing, buy the Insta360 X3. If you want a smaller body and a camera that also behaves like a regular GoPro, look at the GoPro MAX. Both shoot full 360 video, stabilise it and let you pick your framing after the shot.

We list one Insta360 model right now, the X3, and one other 360 camera, the GoPro MAX. This guide compares those two using the makers' and retailers' published specifications, so you know which 360 camera in India suits your shooting.

What is a 360 camera and what is it good for?

A 360 camera has two lenses back to back. It records everything around you at once, then stitches the two views into one sphere. You decide where to point the camera later, in an app or on a computer. That is why people call it "shoot first, point later".

It suits rides, treks, travel vlogs, events and any moment where you cannot frame the shot while it happens. You can export a normal flat video from the sphere, or share the full 360 view. It is not the best choice for fast fixed framing of one subject, where a regular action camera is simpler.

Insta360 X3 vs GoPro MAX at a glance

Specs come from Insta360, GoPro and retailer listings. Check the exact bundle on the product page before you order.

Insta360 X3: the sharper all rounder

The Insta360 X3 360 action camera uses 1/2 inch 48MP sensors. That gives 5.7K 360 video, 72MP 360 photos and 8K timelapse. For flat, first person shots, it also has a 4K 30 fps single lens mode.

FlowState stabilisation adds gimbal like smoothness and horizon lock. The camera is waterproof to 10 m without a case, and Insta360 sells a Dive Case for stitched 360 footage down to 50 m. The 2.29 inch tempered glass touchscreen makes settings easy to change on the move.

The Insta360 app offers AI editing, and Insta360 Studio on a desktop adds keyframing and 360 editing tools. The invisible selfie stick effect needs a stick, which is sold separately.

Best for: travel and adventure creators who want the most detail, the deepest waterproofing and the big screen. Think about: it is heavier at 180 g, and you should use a fast microSD card.

GoPro MAX: the compact 360 with GoPro habits

The GoPro MAX 360 action camera weighs 154 g and records 360 video at a stitched 4992 x 2496. It has six built in microphones and takes a single microSD card for 360 recording, up to 256 GB.

HyperSmooth stabilisation and in camera horizon levelling keep footage steady. PowerPano captures 270 degree still photos, and TimeWarp makes variable speed timelapses. The camera is submersible to 5 m. It can also shoot as a standard camera and reframe footage later in the Quik app.

The listing we carry comes with a Rugged B&W case, which is useful for travel and storage.

Best for: people who already use GoPro mounts and the Quik app, or who want a lighter body. Think about: 360 photo resolution is lower than the X3, and the rated depth is half.

Which one should you buy?

• Best 360 image quality and big 72MP photos: Insta360 X3.
• Water sports or shooting near water: Insta360 X3, rated to 10 m, against 5 m for the MAX.
• Lighter pocket carry and GoPro style accessories: GoPro MAX.
• You do not need 360 at all: see the GoPro range for regular action cameras.

Things to check before you order

• Memory card: buy a fast, good quality card. Our camera memory card guide explains speed classes.
• Editing: 360 files are large. Check your phone or computer can handle them in the maker's app.
• Accessories: the invisible selfie stick, mounts and dive cases are separate purchases.
• Availability: stock changes, so ask before you plan a trip around a specific model.

Frequently asked questions

Is the Insta360 X3 waterproof?

Yes. Insta360 rates it IPX8 and waterproof to 10 m (33 ft) without a case. Insta360 sells a Dive Case for stitched 360 footage down to 50 m.

What resolution does the Insta360 X3 shoot?

It records 5.7K 360 Active HDR video and 72MP 360 photos. In single lens mode, it records 4K at 30 fps.

How does GoPro MAX compare with Insta360 X3?

The X3 has higher listed 360 video and photo resolution, a bigger battery and 10 m waterproofing. The MAX is lighter at 154 g and works with GoPro mounts and the Quik app.

Can I use a 360 camera as a normal action camera?

Yes. You can reframe 360 footage into a flat video. The X3 also has a 4K single lens mode, and the MAX can record as a standard camera.

Which memory card does the X3 need?

Insta360 recommends a UHS-I V30 microSD card in exFAT format, up to 1 TB.

See the full Insta360 range, browse the GoPro collection, or read our guide to camera warranty and grey market gear in India before you buy from ShutterBuzz.