The Insta360 X4 is the latest evolution in the world of 360-degree cameras, promising not only 8K video but also unparalleled stabilization, longer battery life, and a more rugged design. If you’re a content creator, adventurer, or simply someone looking for the best way to capture immersive footage, the X4 might be exactly what you need. But how does it actually perform? Let’s dive into a detailed, hands-on review to find out if this flagship is worth the hype.
Camera & Video Performance
Video Resolutions:
• 8K at 30fps (360-degree mode)
• 5.7K at 60fps
• 4K at 100fps (for slow-motion shots)
• Single-Lens Mode: Up to 4K at 60fps for traditional wide-angle videos
• Photo Resolution: Up to 72MP (11968×5984 pixels)
• Lens Aperture: f/1.9, dual 200° fisheye lenses
• ISO Range: 100–3200 (photo and video)
• Shutter Speed: 1/8000s to 120s
Stabilization & Features
• FlowState Stabilization: Advanced 6-axis stabilization for buttery smooth footage
• 360 Horizon Lock: Keeps your horizon perfectly level, no matter how much the camera rotates
• Active HDR: Enhanced dynamic range in both photos and videos
• Invisible Selfie Stick: Automatically removed from footage for a drone-like perspective
• AI Editing Tools: Automatic shot selection, reframing, and video creation in the Insta360 app
Display & Controls
• Touchscreen: 2.29-inch tempered glass touchscreen (40% tougher than X3) with increased brightness
• Voice Control 2.0: Improved hands-free control
• Quick Menu: Easily switch between custom presets
Battery & Power
• Battery Capacity: 2290mAh removable battery (removable for easy swaps)
Battery Life:
• Up to 135 minutes of 5.7K 30fps recording
• 67% longer battery life compared to the Insta360 X3
• Charging: USB-C with fast-charging support
Durability & Build
• Waterproofing: IPX8 waterproof up to 10m (33ft) without housing
• Dive Case (optional): Waterproof up to 50m (164ft)
• Build: Rugged body with detachable lens guards for extra protection
Connectivity & Storage
• Wireless Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4GHz & 5GHz, Bluetooth 5.2
• Storage: Supports microSD cards up to 1TB (UHS-I V30 or faster recommended)
• Compatibility: Works with iOS (A11 or later) and Android (Snapdragon 845 or equivalent)
Design & Build – Rugged Yet Sleek
Right out of the box, the Insta360 X4 feels like an upgrade. It’s slightly larger than its predecessor, the X3, but that extra size comes with more battery life and better durability. The detachable lens guards are a game changer, offering peace of mind when shooting in rough environments.
The 2.29-inch touchscreen is bright, crisp, and responsive. It’s easy to navigate through settings, even under direct sunlight, and the new tempered glass feels robust enough to withstand accidental drops.
Performance – 8K Video That Stuns
Let’s talk about the star feature: 8K 360-degree video. This isn’t just marketing hype—the X4 delivers stunning detail that makes you feel like you’re right in the middle of the action.
• 8K at 30fps produces crystal-clear footage with vivid colors and impressive low-light performance.
• 5.7K at 60fps is perfect for action shots, offering smooth motion without sacrificing too much detail.
• FlowState Stabilization makes your footage look like it was shot on a gimbal, even when you’re running, biking, or skiing.
In Single-Lens Mode, the X4 acts as a traditional action camera, shooting up to 4K at 60fps. This versatility is perfect if you don’t always want 360 footage but still need top-notch video quality.
Unique Features & Real-World Applications
• Invisible Selfie Stick: This feature never gets old. It gives you a third-person view, like having a drone following you, but without the hassle.
• Bullet-Time Mode: Creates cinematic, slow-motion 360-degree shots that look like something out of The Matrix.
• TimeShift & Hyperlapse: Perfect for speeding up scenic walks or city tours while keeping everything smooth and stable.
• Active HDR: Enhances dynamic range in tricky lighting conditions, like sunsets or high-contrast scenes.
Use Cases:
• Travel & Adventure: From hiking in the mountains to diving underwater, the X4’s rugged design and waterproof capabilities make it the perfect companion.
• Content Creation: For YouTubers and vloggers, the X4 offers unique angles and immersive footage that traditional cameras can’t match.
• Virtual Tours & Real Estate: The 8K clarity makes it ideal for creating virtual tours or immersive experiences in VR.
Insta360 X4 Accessories
To truly unlock the full potential of the Insta360 X4, having the right accessories is essential. Whether you’re diving underwater, capturing action-packed adventures, or just looking for the best ways to stabilize your shots, these accessories will take your 360-degree footage to the next level. Here’s a breakdown of the essential Insta360 X4 accessories you see in the image.
1. Insta360 X4 Dive Case
2. Invisible Selfie Stick
3. Lens Guards
4. Insta360 Mic Adapter
5. Bullet Time Handle & Tripod
6. Quick Reader
7. Utility Frame & Mounting Clamps
8. Triple Suction Cup Car Mount
9. Battery Charging Hub
10. Spare Batteries
11. Extended Monopod/Tripod
12. Action Light Mod
13. Wind Noise Reduction Cover
Pricing & Availability
• Price: $499.99
• Release Date: April 2024
• Available from: Insta360 website, Amazon, B&H Photo, and major tech retailers
Final Thoughts – Is the Insta360 X4 Worth It?
The Insta360 X4 is hands-down the best 360-degree camera on the market right now. It pushes the boundaries of what’s possible with 8K video, offers unparalleled stabilization, and is packed with features that cater to both beginners and professionals.
If you’re serious about immersive content creation—whether you’re an adventurer, vlogger, or VR enthusiast—the X4 is worth every penny. Yes, it’s pricey, and yes, 8K editing will require some serious computing power, but the results are nothing short of breathtaking.
Pros & Cons – Is the Insta360 X4 the Right Camera for You?
Every new gadget promises to be better, faster, and more powerful, but with the Insta360 X4, those claims come with real substance. This camera doesn’t just offer incremental upgrades—it delivers 8K video quality, next-level stabilization, and a rugged, adventure-ready design. But with great power comes some trade-offs, and while the X4 is an impressive piece of tech, it may not be the perfect fit for everyone.
On the bright side, the X4 pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in a 360-degree action camera. Whether you’re scaling mountains, diving deep into the ocean, or just looking to create jaw-dropping content from a fresh perspective, this camera has the tools to make it happen. FlowState Stabilization ensures your footage is always smooth, and the Invisible Selfie Stick opens up creative possibilities that traditional cameras simply can’t match. Plus, the long battery life and waterproof build mean you can take it virtually anywhere without worrying about running out of juice or damaging your gear.
However, with cutting-edge technology comes a hefty price tag and some practical challenges. Shooting in 8K isn’t just about capturing stunning visuals—it also means dealing with massive file sizes and needing a high-powered computer for editing. There’s also a learning curve if you’re new to 360-degree content, and while the X4 is more user-friendly than ever, it still requires some time and effort to master. And let’s not forget: extended 8K recording sessions can cause the camera to overheat, which might be a dealbreaker for those planning long shoots in hot environments.
So, is the Insta360 X4 the ultimate 360 camera? For content creators, adventurers, and professionals, the answer is a resounding yes. But for casual users or those on a budget, the price, complexity, and storage demands might outweigh the benefits. Let’s break down the pros and cons to see where this camera truly shines—and where it might fall short.
5 / 5
Pros
- Stunning 8K video with incredible detail and vibrant colors
- FlowState Stabilization delivers gimbal-like smoothness
- Rugged and waterproof up to 10m without a case
- Longer battery life with fast-charging support
- Versatile shooting modes (360, single-lens, bullet-time, etc.)
- Invisible Selfie Stick for immersive third-person views
- AI-powered editing tools for effortless content creation
Cons
- Expensive compared to previous models and competitors
- 8K video requires large storage and powerful editing hardware
- Can overheat during extended 8K recording sessions
- Learning curve for beginners new to 360 content and editing
- Bigger and heavier than the X3, which might not suit ultra-light travelers
