Insta360 X2 Vs X3: Best budget 360 Cameras
Trying to choose between an Insta360 X3 vs Insta360 X2?
Which is right for you?
I own both, and upgraded from X2 to X3, and at the end of the post I’ll explain why I personally upgraded.
Let’s compare these two models, starting with these pictures and then a comparison chart below.
Both of these have been out for a few years so prices have dropped below $300.
Spoiler: When there is a sale the Insta360 X3 is the no brainer buy due to minimal price difference.
| Feature | Insta360 X3 | Insta360 One X2 |
|---|---|---|
| Screen size | 2.29 inches | 1.3 inches |
| Sensor size | 1/2 inch | 1/2.3 inch |
| Photo resolution | 72MP | 18.4MP |
| Video resolution | 5.7K 360 / 4K single-lens | 5.7K 360 / 3K single-lens |
| Video bitrate | 120Mbps | 100Mbps |
| Video framerate | 60fps | 50fps |
| Waterproof depth | 10 meters | water resistance only |
| Battery life | 90 minutes | 80 minutes |
Info on X2 vs X3
Overview of Insta360 X3 vs Insta360 One X2
As you can see in the photos above they look fairly similar in shape and size with the X2 coming out in 2020 and the X3 released in 2022.
The stand out obvious difference in looks is the screen size, which makes X3 much easier to use.
Size & Weight:
Both are compact and lightweight since they are designed as portable actions cams.
The Insta360 X3 is slightly larger than its predecessor
• 2.6 x 1.8 x 0.9 inches (66 x 46 x 23 mm)
• 4 ounces (115 grams).
The Insta360 X2 is slightly smaller and lighter
• 2.4 x 1.7 x 0.9 inches (60x43x23mm)
• 3 ounces (85 grams).
Price Comparison
Both of these cameras are below $300 dollars now, and with sales the Insta360 X3 is barely above the price of the X2, so at those times its a no brainer to buy the X3.
Image Quality Insta360 X3 vs X2
Both cameras feature dynamic range and color accuracy that allow for stunning images in daylight, but not the best in lower light situations.
The Insta360 X3 offers 14 stops of dynamic range while the Insta360 X2 offers 12 stops of dynamic range. Dynamic Range is the ratio between the brightest whites and darkest blacks in an image.
The Insta360 X3 has better low light performance due to its large 1/2″ sensor size, which allows for brighter images in dimly lit environments.
The Insta360 X3 has 72MP max resolution pictures, which is substantially better than the Insta360 X2’s 18MP pictures. The X3 also shoots higher quality 18MP pictures than X2, if you dont want to sacrifice some color detail when switching to 72MP mode.
Video Quality of Insta360 X2 vs X3
Resolution:
Both the Insta360 X3 and X2 have 5.7K resolution.
However, the X3 has higher active dynamic range than the X2, meaning it can capture more detail in dark areas of a scene while still preserving highlights.
Also in certain modes X3 shoots at 8K! ( timelapse mode)
Frame Rate Options:
At max resolution of regular video of 5.7K, they both shoot at 30 fps.
At 4K the Insta360 X3 gets 60 FPS vs Insta360 X2 at 50 FPS.
For bulletime mode for slo-motion
•X3 offers frame rate options up to 120fps at 4K
•X2 offers frame rates of 100fps at 3K
360 VR video from my Youtube Channel.
See my 360 VR video and written guides on my blog as I travelled the world and shot video using Insta360.
Newer updates only updating X3 and not X2
If you are looking for the best effects and updates then you need to buy the X3 to get the best benefits.
For example the latest firmware update in April 2023 had key improvements that only benefits X3 but not X2 cameras.
An example of mine editing a short for social media via app after shooting with Insta360 cam.
Accessories
Related article: Check out 360 camera accessories
Both have great accessories that can help you capture amazing photos and videos, but some of them differ due to size differences between the two models.
Both also come with an array of mounting options such as tripods, selfie sticks, bike mounts, helmet mounts and more. These allow you to get creative with your shots by positioning your camera in different angles and locations while keeping it secure.
These mount options are able to be used with both because they use the same 1/4″ screw. See 3 examples of invisible selfie sticks in the picture above.
Check my article on different invisible selfie stick options for 360 cameras.
However for cases such as the dive case, since they are different sizes, they are not compatible.
My Recommendation and choice
Given how prices have dropped on these older 360 camera, getting the Insta360 X3 is the obvious choice when its on sale and barely more expensive than the X2.
Otherwise:
- The Insta360 X3 is more expensive but offers a higher quality image and video resolution, and extras like bigger screen.
- The Insta360 X2 is over $50 cheaper at times, but still provides almost similar image and video quality.
However, I personally upgraded to the Insta360 X3 because it had a bigger screen which makes it much easier to see screen and adjust settings. Also, the “quick button” on the side lets you change preprogrammed settings on the fly. And last but not least, its more waterproof to 10 meters without a case so I don’t have to use my GoPro anymore.
And now with camera firmware updates that are only benefiting the newer Insta360 X3 camera, there is even more reason to buy the X3 vs the X2.
Check price and more reviews of Insta360 X3
Check price and more reviews of Insta360 X2
