Insta360 X3 vs. Insta360 X4: Which 360 Camera is Right for You?

I’ve got the Insta360 X3 and recently made the jump to the Insta360 X4 because of some tempting upgrades, which I’ll break down for you below.

If you already own the Insta360 X3, you’ll need to think about whether these new features are worth shelling out for a brand-new camera.

But if you’re starting fresh and don’t have either, the Insta360 X4 is totally the way to go! It’s just $100 more, and with all the cool upgrades plus the assurance of software updates for the next few years, it makes more sense than sticking with the X3, which may not get the same software and firmware upgrades.

I have used 360 cameras for years as I travel around the world and post them on this website and on Youtube if you want to see what 360 cams are capable of. ( and as proof that I actually own and use these cameras)

Check out these Amazon links for more info and reviews.

Quick Summary of Upgrades from Insta360 X3 to X4

The Insta360 X4 is a more advanced (and more expensive) model than its predecessor, the X3. Here are the main upgrades:

Photo and video upgrades:

• Photo and video quality: 8k30fps and 5.7k60fps, compared to 5.7k30fps.
• Interval video: 11k from 8k.
• Slo-mo: 4K100fps from 3k100fps.
• Single lens mode: 4K60fps from 4k30fps.
• Max 72MP photos with in-camera AI noise reduction.
• Me-mode: 4k30fps.

Hardware and software upgrades include:

• Processor: Faster 5nm chip.
• Lens protectors: More convenient and removable.
• Battery: Larger and faster charging – 135 minutes from 81 minutes at 5.7k.
• Gesture control: Start/stop videos and take pictures.
• Bitrate: Increased to 200mbps from 120mbps.
• Touch screen: Bigger and better.
• Voice control: Improved.
• Boot times: Much faster.
• USB transfer speed: Faster.
• WiFi speed: Faster.

Which should you get?

My favorite part about the Insta360 X4 is that its processor makes everything smoother and faster, including boot times and filming, plus 8K is perfect for 360 videos.

Who Should Choose the Insta360 X3?

If you’re looking for a reliable 360 camera at a lower price point and don’t need the latest features, the Insta360 X3 is a solid choice. It’s great for beginners or those who use 360 cameras occasionally.

Who Should Invest in the Insta360 X4?

For professional content creators or enthusiasts who demand the best quality and latest features, the Insta360 X4 is worth the extra investment. Its faster processor, improved battery life, higher resolution video, and additional features like gesture control and enhanced voice commands make it a powerhouse in the 360 camera market.

More details about X3 vs X4 below

Processor

Insta360 X3

• Chip: Standard chip.
• Speed: Adequate for basic 360 video recording.
• Performance: Handles standard tasks but can lag with intensive processing.

Insta360 X4

• Chip: Advanced 5nm processor.
• Speed: Significantly faster, enabling smoother operations.
• Performance: Efficiently manages high-resolution video and photo processing, making all the mentioned upgrades possible.

Hardware

Insta360 X3

• Battery: 81 minutes at 5.7k.
• Lens Protectors: Standard, non-removable.
• Touch Screen: Functional but smaller.
• Bitrate: 120mbps.
• USB and WiFi Speed: Standard, adequate for typical use.

Insta360 X4

• Battery: Upgraded to 135 minutes at 5.7k.
• Lens Protectors: Conveniently removable.
• Touch Screen: Larger and more responsive.
• Bitrate: 200mbps, offering higher quality footage.
• USB and WiFi Speed: Faster, ensuring quicker file transfers and smoother connectivity.

Software

Insta360 X3

• Voice Control: Basic commands.
• Boot Times: Slower.
• Gesture Control: Not available.

Insta360 X4

• Voice Control: Enhanced for better recognition.
• Boot Times: Much faster, improving overall usability.
• Gesture Control: Available for more intuitive operation.

New Features

Insta360 X3

• Photo Quality: Max 72MP photos.
• Video Quality: 5.7k30fps.
• Me-mode: Not available.

Insta360 X4

• Photo Quality: Same max 72MP, but with advanced in-camera AI noise reduction.
• Video Quality: 8k30fps and 5.7k60fps.
• Me-mode: 4k30fps, perfect for vlogging and personal content.