Comparison of GoPro MAX 2 and GoPro Max (2019)

We will compare the 2025 model GoPro MAX 2 with the first-generation GoPro Max from 2019 in terms of shooting performance, body specifications, and more.

max2 thumbnailMAX 2
VS
max-2019 thumbnailMAX (2019)
GoProDB's Choice
GoPro MAX 2 thumbnail

MAX 2

  • You can fully experience six years of evolution
  • Shooting image quality has greatly improved
  • Not only an omnidirectional (360-degree) camera, but also excellent as a regular action camera

Key Factors

1

Shooting Performance / Functions

Max2 supports up to 8K. Its normal shooting capability is also high

2

Body Features

Max2 is equipped with functions such as a magnetic mount and interchangeable lenses

3

Size / Weight Differences

Max2 is heavier, but still barely within the acceptable range

Shooting Performance / Functions of Max2 Are Overwhelmingly Higher

Released in 2025, Max2 came out six years after the first-generation Max, and the difference in shooting quality is overwhelming. Max2 supports shooting up to 8K, also supports 2x slow motion, 10-bit recording, and GP-Log, enabling professional-level video capture.

Furthermore, Max2 supports 4K/60fps even when shooting with a single lens instead of in full-sphere mode. It is fully capable as a regular action camera without 360-degree shooting. Max2 also supports loop recording.

Even for shooting performance alone, it can be said that Max2 is well worth choosing.

Body Features Are Also Superior on Max2

The body features are also superior on Max2.

First, the mount has been changed to a magnetic type, making attachment and removal easy. Furthermore, since it supports Bluetooth audio, you can use wireless microphones such as AirPods to execute voice commands.

In addition, the lens is replaceable, so in the event the lens is damaged, only the lens replacement cost is required.

Size and Weight Differences

While the Max2 has significantly evolved, one disadvantage compared to the first-generation Max is its weight. The size has only slightly increased in thickness, but the weight is nearly 200g, which makes it heavy for an action camera.

However, if lightness is what you are looking for, you should not choose the Max series in the first place. Since the Max series is often mounted on vehicles and similar equipment, up to around 200g should still be within the acceptable range.

On the other hand, choosing the first-generation Max merely for about 40g of weight savings is questionable. Considering the differences in functions and performance, if you are buying now, the Max2 is by far the better choice.

EVOLUTION DATASHEET

Spec Position of MAX 2 & MAX (2019) in GoPro History

Positioning matrix showing how MAX 2 and MAX (2019) compare across the entire GoPro evolution history.

MAX 2
MAX 2
Release Year
2025(-1 yr)
20122026
Shooting Performance
Max Video Resolution
8K @30fps
720p8K
Photo Resolution
29.00 MP
5.00 MP50.00 MP
Slow-Motion
Max Standard Slow-Motion
3x (4K)
2x16x
Max Burst Slow-Motion
None
None32x (1080p)
Stabilization
Stabilization
Max HyperSmooth
NoneHyperSmooth 6.0
Body Specs
Body Size (Volume)
64.0×69.7×48.7 (217cm³)
242 cm³52 cm³
Weight
195g
220g63g
Max SD Storage
1TB
32GB1TB
MAX (2019)
MAX (2019)
Release Year
2019(-7 yrs)
20122026
Shooting Performance
Max Video Resolution
5.6K @30fps
720p8K
Photo Resolution
18.00 MP
5.00 MP50.00 MP
Slow-Motion
Max Standard Slow-Motion
1x (5.6K)
2x16x
Max Burst Slow-Motion
None
None32x (1080p)
Stabilization
Stabilization
Max HyperSmooth
NoneHyperSmooth 6.0
Body Specs
Body Size (Volume)
64×69×24 (106cm³)
242 cm³52 cm³
Weight
154g
220g63g
Max SD Storage
256GB
32GB1TB

Comparison of MAX 2 with Other Models

Comparison of MAX (2019) with Other Models