Expert review of the GoPro Max
In short
- With the GoPro Max, you can record 360-degree videos both above and below water.
- You can share your images via social media right away with the live stream function.
- Thanks to the HyperSmooth image stabilization, you can record stable videos.
- The GoPro Max doesn't include a memory card.
First impression
The first thing that strikes me about the GoPro Max is the handy LCD screen with touchscreen, which you can watch 360-degree videos on. I can see the exact framing of the image when vlogging or taking selfies. Thanks to the built-in pivot arms of this GoPro, you can change attachments within seconds. You don't need a frame to mount your action camera to something. This saves a lot of time, so I can get started right away.
4 different lenses
The GoPro Max has 4 lens options to create the desired image. I tap through the 4 lense types: Narrow, Linear, Wide, and Max SuperView. Thanks to the Max Superview, I see a very wide image even though I'm in a small space. I can also make cool panoramic shots of 270 degrees with the PowerPano function. The recording is distortion-free, so the image is of good quality including the very edges.
Image quality
You can record and stream live in Full HD 1080p quality at 60 fps. Despite the fact that it's not 4K, I think the quality is more than enough for this advanced GoPro. The recordings made in Hero mode give the images a smooth, cinematic effect. The integrated image stabilization makes a difference during activities like cycling or driving. The Max is waterproof up to 5 meters, so you can also record 360-degree videos underwater.
Sound quality
Action cameras aren't famous for their high-quality sound quality. Still, I'm very impressed when I hear the sound of this small device. The 6 integrated microphones of the GoPro Max provide 360-degree audio. As a result, you hear less wind noise during vlogging. You also have stereo sound or options for directional audio so that you can take your videos to a more professional level.
Recording options
My favorite movie option is the timelapse option. This allows you to quickly transform long recordings into a short and powerful video. You also have full control over the amount of intervals in the 360-degree timelapse. With the GoPro app, you can easily convert 360 images into traditional videos and photos. Play, edit, and share everything from your phone.
Conclusion
The GoPro Max seems to be a step in the right direction when it comes to action cameras. Although it doesn't have 4K image quality, I'm impressed by the lens options and the quality of image and sound. Thanks to the many options, you can create dynamic videos. It's almost like using many cameras from different perspectives at the same time. The GoPro app makes it a very user-friendly 360-degree camera.
