Insta360 has announced its new flagship 360-degrees camera, the Insta360 X5. The company says it is the smartest, toughest 360-degree camera ever made. It promises groundbreaking image quality, rugged durability and AI-powered ease of use.
Large sensor
The Insta360 X5 features 1/1.28-inch sensors that are 144% larger than the sensors in the previous X4 camera. As a result, they capture far more light for cleaner, noise-free images.
The X5 also has a Triple AI Chip system, made up of one 5 nm AI Chip and two Pro Imaging Chips. This offers 40% more computing power, which delivers a dramatic leap in image quality across all video resolutions.
Video
The Insta360 X5 can record 360° video in 8K at up to 30 frames per second (fps), using supersampling from 11K down to 8K. You can also shoot up to 60 fps in 5.7K, and 120 fps in 4K for super slow motion.
Alternatively, you can record single-lens videos at up to 60 fps in 4K, or 120 fps in 1080p HD. The X5 records video to a microSD card in an H.264 or H.265 codec at a maximum bitrate of 180 Mbps.
InstaFrame
The Insta360 X5 has a new InstaFrame mode, which produces two files. The first is an instantly shareable flat video with no editing or reframing needed. You can select between a fixed view that follows a constant direction or a selfie view that keeps you in frame. In addition, the second is a full 360° clip, so you can choose your angles later.
Pure video
The Insta360 X5’s new Pure Video mode uses advanced AI noise reduction and dynamic range optimization for clear, vibrant footage in low light. With PureVideo, the X5 delivers crisp, cinematic footage even in challenging lighting. However, the maximum frame rates are capped at 30 fps in all resolutions when using Pure Video.
Tough and rugged
The lenses on the Insta360 X5 are made from a new, high-strength, scratch-resistant glass. However, should the worst happen, you can now easily replace damaged lenses on the go with the handy Replacement Lens Kit. The Insta360 X5 also features IP68 waterproofing to 49 feet (15 meters), so you don’t need an external housing to go underwater.
And, with the camera’s magnetic mounting system, you can quickly swap accessories so you’re always ready for the next shot.
Battery life
The Insta360 X5 uses a new, longer-lasting and faster-charging battery. Its 2400 mAh battery will last over three hours recording in 5.7K when you use the power-saving Endurance Mode. Also, when you do need to recharge, the X5 can fast charge from 0 to 80% in just 20 minutes.
Other features
The Insta360 X5 features a built-in multi-layer steel mesh wind guard to help silence wind noise. Additionally, the improved audio algorithm delivers sharp, immersive sound. FlowState Stabilization and 360° Horizon Lock on the X5 also deliver the smoothest shots possible. With the new Twist to Shoot feature, you can start shooting just by twisting your selfie stick back and forth. Or, you can use Voice Control 2.0, Gesture Control or a wireless remote.
Insta360 app
For the launch of the X5, the free Insta360 app has been redesigned. It now has a sleeker user interface and new tools that make editing easier than ever. There’s a one-tap Dewarp button that removes fisheye distortion for natural-looking footage.
You also get a new option to one-tap export with zero editing or reframing. Plus, you can still use Quick Edit and AI Edit for semi-automatic and automatic editing, Shot Lab with over 40+ AI templates, as well as a full manual editing suite. If you prefer editing on your computer, you can use Insta360 Studio, the free desktop editing software.
What we think
Insta360 has really raised the bar with the launch of the new flagship X5 360-degree camera. Its larger sensors and AI-powered image processing should deliver even better image quality, especially in low light. The option to record flat video alongside your 360° clips is also good for anyone who wants to share content straight away.
The ability to quickly swap out the lenses on the X5 if they get damaged is a great new feature as well. With its rugged build and improved waterproofing, the Insta360 X5 is an ideal choice for anyone looking to get a top-quality 360° camera.
Pricing and availability
The new Insta360 X5 360-degree camera is available for order today. It retails at $549.
