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GoPro MAX 2 vs GoPro Fusion (2018) Comparison
Compare the 2025 GoPro MAX 2 with the 2018 GoPro Fusion, the first 360-degree camera, in terms of shooting performance, body specifications, and more.
Key Factors
- Shooting Performance & Features
Max2 supports up to 8K. Fusion cannot shoot anything other than 360°
- Device Features
Max2 is equipped with magnetic mount and lens replacement functionality
- Size & Weight Differences
Max2 is smaller and lighter
Max2 has overwhelmingly superior shooting performance and features
There is a 7-year gap between the Max2 released in 2025 and the Fusion, which was GoPro's first 360° camera. Therefore, there is an overwhelming difference in shooting quality, with Max2 supporting shooting at up to 8K and also supporting 2x slow motion at 8K. It also supports 10-bit shooting and GP-Log, enabling professional-level video shooting.
Furthermore, Max2 supports 4K/60fps not only for spherical shooting but also during regular single-sided shooting ("HERO mode"). It is sufficiently excellent as a regular action camera that doesn't shoot in 360 degrees. Additionally, Max2 supports loop recording.
On the other hand, since Fusion does not have "HERO mode" installed, shooting is always in 360°. While it is possible to crop to normal field of view later using the app, it can be said that there are limitations in usage.
Max2 is also superior in device functionality
Max2 is also superior in device functionality.
The biggest difference is the display. While Fusion has a monochrome small window that only confirms shooting modes, Max2 is equipped with a full-color display that enables preview. You can shoot while previewing on the device itself.
Also, the mount has become magnetic, making attachment and detachment easy. Furthermore, it supports Bluetooth audio, so you can execute voice commands with wireless microphones like AirPods. Additionally, the lenses are replaceable, so if a lens gets damaged, you only need to pay for lens replacement costs.
Fusion does not have these features.
Size and weight differences
Despite its significant evolution, Max2 is lighter in weight and smaller in size compared to Fusion. While Max2 is about 1cm thicker, it is about one size smaller in overall dimensions, and most importantly, being nearly 30g lighter is a major evolution.
In that sense as well, it would not be an exaggeration to say that Max2 is the only choice if you're buying a spherical model GoPro from now on.
Compare by shooting performance
| Features |  GoPro MAX 2 |  GoPro FUSION |
|---|---|---|
| 5.6K | 60 fps | - |
| 5.3K | - | - |
| 5.2K | - | 30 fps |
| 5K | - | - |
| 4K | 60 fps | - |
| 3K | - | - |
| 2.7K | - | - |
| 1080p | 60 fps | - |
| Still Image Resolution | 29.00 MP | 16.60 MP |
Compare by specifications
| Feature | GoPro MAX 2 | GoPro FUSION |
|---|---|---|
| Release date | 2025/09/23 | 2018/04/02 |
| Chipset | ||
| Image Sensor Size | 1/2.3” | 1/2.3” |
| Aperture | f/1.8 | f/2.8 |
| Stabilization | Max HyperSmooth | Spherical |
| 10 Bit Color | ✔ | x |
| Loop Recording | ✔ | ✔ |
| Live Streaming | x | x |
| Waterproof | 5 m | 5 m |
| Max Storage Size | 1000 GB | 128 GB |
| Body Size | 64.0 * 69.7 * 48.7 mm | 74 * 75 * 40 mm |
| Weight | 195 g | 220 g |
