Is the Insta360 X3 Really Waterproof?

I often come across the question on forums and social media about whether the Insta360 X3 is acutally waterproof. You know, there’s a lot of confusion around what “waterproof” truly means, especially with the device marked IPX8.

Many folks think “waterproof” means their devices can handle any water situation flawlessly. But with an IPX8 rating like the Insta360 X3, what is the truth?

My way of thinking of it is this: imagine the forces involved if you a just sitting calmly at bottom of a pool vs doing a bellyflop on the surface. I think most would agree the bellyflop exerts more short high local forces.

That is where “waterproof” issue fails.

For example:
-on the surface of the water with Insta360 X3 at end of selfie stick hitting water multiple times while swimming around normally
-surfing with high water pressure waves hitting the camera
-rapid movements or waving arms to swim underwater.

Get a dive case if you do any of that.

Check this link for case options from Amazon.

Or make sure you get original dive case from Insta360 direct at link below.

Personally I only depend on it being waterproof enough for me to use it in the rain or dipping it gently into the water.

Warranty for water damage?

Insta360 warranty and paid extended warranty do not cover water damage.

Insta360 Care covers “any damage to the camera caused by: dropping, pressure, and impact covered under “Insta360 Care“ service ” but does not specifically mention water damage.

However on this official Insta360 Reddit thread the mod did confirm that Care did cover water damage, but then answer was removed.

I have seen Reddit and Facebook threads mention that they had Insta360 Care and “dropped” or had “impact” with their camera in water and had water damage, and Insta360 honored the contract.

And that’s assuming you actually made sure every usb and battery port was properly clicked closed without any color showing.

Check out this link on Insta360 site for more details on their Insta360 Care terms and warranties.

Here is an example video of dipping X3 into water while tubing on slow moving river with no leak issues for me.

What does IPX8 Waterproof Rating mean?

The Insta360 X3 prides itself on an IPX8 waterproof rating, which, in theory, means it’s protected against water ingress when fully submerged. But this rating is often misunderstood.

The ‘IP’ in IPX8 stands for “Ingress Protection” and the ‘X’ means it’s not tested for dust-tight, but that’s not our focus here. We want to decode the ‘8’.

IPX8 guarantees a device’s protection against “continuous immersion in water under conditions which shall be specified by the manufacturer.”

So all they are saying for the Insta360 X3, is that in fresh water with no water or camera movement, the camera can sit at 33 feet for 30 minutes. No guarantee beyond that.

Lots of potential points of waterproof failure on the camera, especially the usb port and the battery site that can be opened.

Force Test: IPX8 vs. movement Pressure

When you’re moving in the water, the camera doesn’t just deal with downward pressure of depth; it also feels those sideways forces. When you’re swimming, your movements create pressure changes that push and pull with the water flow.

Think of the extra pressure on every seal of the camera every time it moved.

And even worse is breaking the water tension pressures of the surface.

Imagine the difference in impact force when you walk into the water gingerly compared to when you take a belly flop.

A digital camera taking a gentle dip versus being thrown into action in a pool or the ocean are two very different scenarios. When you’re swimming, the force of water is constantly changing and doubling up with your own movements.

Gear Comparison: iPhone 15 Pro

Apple’s flagship boasts an IP68 rating, which is often synonymous with impressive water resilience.

That means it has the same IPX8 waterproof rating as the Insta360 X3 ( but different depth guarantee), but you dont see anyone telling you jump into the water with your iphone and take pictures, right?

In fact Apple suggests that you don’t swim with your phone.

Despite both the Insta360 X3 and the iPhone 15 Pro boasting an IPX8 waterproof rating, this does not automatically translate to unlimited underwater functionality, including movement of the camera that causes additional forces.

Underwater Activities: What should you do?

If your plans with the Insta360 X3 involve anything more vigorous than gently dipping it into calm water, like capturing dynamic scenes while snorkeling, surfing, or engaging in any fast-paced water activities, it’s highly advisable to invest in a dive case.

A properly designed dive case provides an additional layer of protection, ensuring that the camera can withstand the increased water pressure and the unpredictable forces encountered during such activities. This is a small investment for safeguarding your device against the potential risks of water damage.

Insta360 recently came out with a new dive case in 2023 which has been in and out of stock so check the link below. It does a much better job of hiding any evidence of the case during editing.

The Verdict on the Insta360 X3’s Waterproof Reality

When considering the safety of using the Insta360 X3 underwater while on the move, it’s crucial to realize IPX8 rating’s capabilities and limitations.

The Insta360 X3 is designed to withstand submersion in fresh water to a depth of 33 feet for 30 minutes.

However, rapidly moving or engaging in water sports introduces additional water pressure and force, which could potentially compromise the camera’s waterproof seal.

While the X3 is equipped to handle some degree of movement underwater, caution should be exercised or just get the upgraded dive case above. ( Or check out if the Insta360 Care plan is right for you)

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Check out my Youtube channel for more videos shot with a 360 cam.