GoPro Max [new]

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Highlights

  • Smaller 
  • More versatile - 360 or standard 1440p (1920x1440) flat
  • Only one SD card (Fusion requires two)
  • Waterproof (for those oceanography courses)
  • 1.7-inch color touchscreen (Fusion has monochrome LCD)
  • More modes: TimeWarp, Powerpano
  • Horizon Levelling
  • 6 surround sound microphones (Fusion has 4 planar mics)

 

Similarities

  • Battery life
  • Water resistance (up to 5 meters submersed)
  • 5.6k 360 video
  • 16.6-Megapixel still shots
  • State-of-the-art stabilization

 

Verdict

Be mindful that I only know the GoPro Max on paper and have not purchased one to explore.  The Max has a cheaper initial price than the Fusion.  For reference, I paid $699 for the Fusion in Fall 2018.  In June 2020 the Max costs $499.  At this time, you can search for a Fusion in the neighborhood of $200-300.  If budget is a factor then the Fusion is a great and durable starter camera.  If the Max is within the price range then it may be worth it to get a device that is smaller and a little easier to work with.