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Winner
The Insta360 X5 is a high-end 360° action camera that excels in many areas important for immersive video. It shoots stunning 8K videos at 30fps using dual large sensors, which means you get very detailed, colorful footage with good dynamic range. Its triple AI chip setup improves low-light performance, so you can capture clear shots even in darker conditions—a big plus if you plan to shoot at night or indoors. The camera offers FlowState Stabilization and 360° Horizon Lock, providing smooth, level videos without needing extra gear like gimbals.
Battery life is solid, lasting about 3 hours, and it supports fast charging, which is handy for long days out. The camera is waterproof up to 49 feet, so it's great for underwater adventures without extra housing. Its lenses are tough, scratch-resistant, and easily replaceable, enhancing durability and maintenance. The built-in wind guard and 4-microphone setup deliver clearer audio by reducing wind noise, which can be challenging for action cameras.
Ease of use is enhanced by a 2.5-inch touchscreen and useful AI features like the Invisible Selfie Stick (sold separately), which lets you create unique angles without the selfie stick showing in the footage. The InstaFrame mode helps you quickly create share-ready videos without heavy editing. However, the camera relies on microSD cards for storage (not included), so you’ll need to buy those separately. Although it’s feature-packed, the weight (about 1.19 pounds) is a bit heavier than some competitors, which might be noticeable if handheld for long periods. The Insta360 X5 suits users seeking top-notch 360° video quality, excellent stabilization, and ruggedness for outdoor and underwater use. It may be less suitable if you prefer a lighter camera or want built-in storage. Its smart AI tools and durability make it a strong choice for adventurers, vloggers, and those serious about immersive content creation.
The Insta360 X4 is a robust 360 VR camera that excels in delivering high-resolution video and features that enhance user experience. With its impressive 8K video recording capability and 5.7K at 60fps, it provides stunning immersive video quality, making it a great choice for content creators wanting to capture vivid experiences. The camera’s FlowState Stabilization ensures smooth footage, even in dynamic situations, which is a significant advantage for action shots or outdoor adventures.
The AI-powered reframing feature simplifies the filmmaking process, allowing users to focus on shooting without worrying too much about composition. The Invisible Selfie Stick effect adds a unique touch, giving the impression of a drone-like viewpoint that truly enhances storytelling.
On the durability front, the X4 is designed to withstand harsh conditions, being waterproof up to 33ft (10m) without a diving case and operational in cold temperatures down to -4ºF (-20ºC). The upgraded lens guards and rugged build offer additional protection during extreme activities. The 2.5-inch Gorilla Glass touchscreen is user-friendly and durable, making it easy to navigate settings and playback.
There are some trade-offs to consider. While 135 minutes of battery life is decent, it might not be sufficient for extended shooting sessions, especially in high-demand scenarios. Additionally, the camera's features, while powerful, may require some time to master for those unfamiliar with 360 filmmaking. Lastly, the Invisible Selfie Stick is not included in the standard bundle, which could be a drawback for users seeking that specific functionality right out of the box.
The Insta360 X4 is ideal for adventurous content creators looking for high-quality 360 video capabilities and stabilization. Its strengths in resolution and durability make it a noteworthy option, but potential buyers should be mindful of its battery life and the learning curve associated with its advanced features.
The GoPro Hero12 Black is an impressive action camera that fits well within the 360 VR camera category, particularly for those who love outdoor adventures and high-quality video capture. Its standout feature is the 5.3K resolution, which delivers remarkable video clarity and detail, far exceeding traditional 4K options. This makes it ideal for users looking to capture immersive experiences in stunning detail, whether it's on a mountain, in the ocean, or anywhere in between. The camera also offers 27MP photos and HDR capabilities, enhancing image quality in varied lighting conditions.
One of the key strengths of the Hero12 Black is its Emmy Award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, which ensures smooth footage even in turbulent environments. This stabilization, combined with the 360° Horizon Lock feature, allows for creative filming without the need for additional equipment like a gimbal. The camera’s robust build is another advantage, being waterproof up to 33 feet and rugged enough for extreme conditions.
On the downside, while the GoPro Hero12 Black excels in video quality and stabilization, its battery life, although improved with the Enduro battery, still offers about 70 minutes of recording at top resolution, which can be limiting for long shoots. Additionally, those looking for an extensive zoom might find the field of view a bit restrictive, as it focuses more on a wide-angle perspective than zoom capabilities. Storage could also be a concern, as it relies on SD cards and does not have built-in storage, which means users will need to invest in high-capacity cards to fully utilize the camera's capabilities. Lastly, while the camera has Bluetooth audio connectivity, some users might prefer more advanced audio features if they plan on using it for vlogs or other audio-centric projects.