Insta360 X4 Review Is It Better Than GoPro MAX for Vlogging

If you're into vlogging, action cams are your new best friend. And right now, two names keep popping up: the Insta360 X4 and the GoPro MAX. But which one actually wins for vloggers? Let’s break it down—no fluff, just real talk.

Video Quality That Slaps

The Insta360 X4 steps up with 5.7K30 and 4K60 360° video. That means even after reframing in post (yes, you can change your angle later), you’re still left with crisp 1080p or even 2.7K footage. The GoPro MAX? Maxes out at 5.6K30, but only in non-360 mode. In 360 mode, it drops to 4K30—noticeably softer when you reframe.

Low Light? X4 Brings the Heat

One thing vloggers hate: grainy night shots. The X4 has a larger sensor and wider f/2.0 aperture, pulling in more light. In side-by-side tests, the X4 retains color and detail in dim environments where the MAX gets noisy. Big win for urban vloggers or sunset chasers.

Audio Matters—Especially When You’re Talking

Vlogging isn’t just visuals. The X4 packs four mics with AI noise reduction and supports external mics via USB-C. The MAX has three mics and no external audio support. If you’re filming interviews or walking city streets, the X4’s directional audio tracking keeps your voice clear while reducing wind rumble.

Stabilization: FlowState vs. HyperSmooth

Both promise buttery smoothness. GoPro’s HyperSmooth is legendary. But Insta360’s FlowState 3.0 on the X4? It’s like the camera’s on a gimbal—even during parkour-level movement. Bonus: Horizon Lock stays rock-solid at 360°, not just in flat modes.

Size & Portability: Who Wins?

The X4 is slightly bulkier (145g vs. 158g), but both fit in a pocket. However, the X4 has a built-in front screen—huge for solo vloggers framing selfies. The MAX forces you to rely on your phone app, which kinda sucks mid-walk.

Price & Value Check

Here’s the tea: the X4 retails around $449, while the MAX is often found at $399. But the X4 includes:
- A free year of Insta360 Studio Pro
- Better app features (like AI editing)
- More intuitive touchscreen
So yeah, you pay a bit more, but you get way more.

Quick Comparison Table

The Verdict

Look, the GoPro MAX is solid. But if you’re serious about vlogging, the Insta360 X4 is the upgrade worth making. Better video, smarter stabilization, usable front screen, and pro-grade audio options make it a total package. For creators who want flexibility and quality without lugging around a mirrorless rig, the X4 isn’t just better—it’s next level.