Insta360 X4 is out! Should you get it?
The Insta360 X4 released 4/16!
The big question: Should you buy the Insta360 X4 and how does it compare to your current 360 camera!
I ordered mine from Amazon and here it is below!
INSTA360 X4 launch video!
Watch this video! ⬇️👇
Insta360 x4 vs X3
Upgrades of the X4 from the X3
Bottom line: this is a more expensive camera and these are the most important upgrades from the X3. Quick summary here with more details in rest of article.
Photo and video upgrades
- 8k30fps and 5.7k60fps – up from 5.7k30fps
- Interval video 11k from 8k
- Slo mo 4K100fps from 3k100fps
- single lens mode 4K60fps from 4k30fps
- max 72MP photos same but with in cam AI noise reduction
- Me-mode 4k30fps
Hardware and software upgrades
- faster processor at 5nm chip – makes all the upgrades possible
- More convenient removable lens protectors
- bigger and faster changing battery- 135 minutes from 81 minutes in 5.7k
- gesture control
- bitrate to 200mbps from 120mbps
- Bigger and better touch screen
- better voice control
- boot times much faster
- Faster USB transfer speed
- Faster WiFi speed
It’s always a challenge deciding whether to snag the older tech at a discount or get the next big thing at a premium price.
Specifications of Insta360 X4
8K Standard Resolution at 30 FPS
The X3 could do 8K, but only for interval video, so that means the X4 has a better processor to do 8K at 30FPS.
Also can now do 4K at 60fps!
Interval video now does 11K!
Sensor Size
Looks to be the same 1/2 inch sensor unless there was and upgraded version of same sensor.
It was likely kept same probably since as an action camera you want to keep it small and affordable and durable.
It can even do up to 72 MP with its quad bayer sensor, just like X3.
But the better processor could lead to improved quality even with sensor being the same.
Better Processor
They states 5nm AI chip in their video, so it might be the same 5nm chip that in the Insta360 ACE Pro.
A powerful processor helps improve shot speed and overall image quality by processing data faster with less compression.
It may also help with faster boot times once you hit the “on” button.
Other upgrades
Detatchable lens protectors that are more convenient than X3.
Ridged grip making it easier to hold.
Longer lasting and faster charging battery.
The Insta360 X3
Related: I currently use the Insta360 X3 as my favorite travel camera
Right now the Insta360 X3 has dropped in price due to the X4 coming out and is significantly cheaper than the X4. Check the link for current prices but its @ $100 difference.
Insta360 X4
MSRP is $499.
Buy cheaper 360 camera now or get Insta360 X4?
Consider Your Immediate Needs
If you don’t have a 360 camera at all now and looking to get one and have never used one before, I would say get the Insta360 X2 or X3 now to get into 360 action cam arena, and then upgrade later if you like it.
Or if budget isnt a concern… the X4 is the way to go since it will get all the app and firmware updates for years to come, so you are future proofed and get the best quality footage right away.
Your Budget Matters Too.
Remember that newer models tend to cost more at launch before prices start dropping after some time post-release. So if budget constraints are looming large, grabbing an x3, which saw a price drop after x4’s release, could be the way to go.
In fact the Insta360 X2 has had some massive price drops recently under $300, if you are interested in getting a 360 cam now while waiting for the X4 to come out.
Related: my review of the Insta360 X3 vs X2
Launch date
4/16/2024!
If you look at Insta360’s track record with previous models – One X in 2018, X2 in 2020 and most recently X3 in 2022 – they’ve consistently unveiled a new model every two years.
Conclusion
Given that the Insta360 X4 is still an action cam, it keeps its small form factor and durability, so that prevents it from getting massive sensors/lenses that protrude.
So it will be a nice evolutionary change rather than big revolutionary improvements.
If you are looking for big sensors and mcuh higher processor quality, I suspect that will come from the next upgrade to the Insta360 RS 360 1 inch. But of course that is much more expensive than X3 or the coming X4.
The RS 1 inch sold out at Insta360 website so does that mean something coming out soon?!?!
Related: comparing the Insta360 RS 360 1 inch edition vs Insta360 X3
Related Articles
If you are interested in 360 cameras then check out my related sites and videos.
My Youtube channel with reframed as well as full 360 videos while travelling
Samir’s Virtual World – YouTube
The Insta360 X2 vs X3 360 camera comparison
Comparing the 360 action cams: Gopro Max vs Insta360 X3
Best selfie sticks for 360 cams
List of affordable 360 cameras
