Insta360 X5 camera launches: can world's best 360-degree camera get even better?
The world's leading 360-degree camera brand, Insta360 has announced its latest flagship camera, the eagerly anticipated Insta360 X5.
When we reviewed its predecessor, the X4, we called it one of the most versatile handheld cameras on the market.
We said it would 'appeal to action sports enthusiasts, casual content creators, travellers and social media posters along with more professional videographers and photographers'.
And we wondered how the firm could possibly improve it? Now the Insta360 X5 has arrived and I've been getting to grips with it for a full review that will follow soon on Irish Mirror.
But in the meantime, here are all the headline features you need to know about if you are considering buying a 360-degree camera. And the good news is the price is only €30 more expensive than last year's model…
The new X5 camera's larger twin 1/1.28in sensors and blazing-fast Triple AI Chip system promise a dramatic leap in image quality across all resolutions, including stunning 8K resolution 360-degree video shot at 30 frames per second (fps).
The 8K30fps 360-degree video employs super-sampling from 11K resolution to 8K, but resolution is only part of what determines image quality.
The big change here is the use of two sensors that the firm said are 144 percent larger to the X4's. Larger sensors capture far more light.
Out of the box, the most noticeable improvements are in low light footage. On top of the boost in quality from the bigger sensors, a new lowlight mode called PureVideo promises advanced AI noise reduction and dynamic range optimisation to deliver clearer and more footage on late-night city explorations, motorcycle rides and more.
The Active HDR support now extends to up to 5.7K resolution at up to 60fps which is ideal for high-contrast scenes.
Insta360 X5 utilises a new Triple AI Chip system. This is made up of one 5nm AI Chip and two Pro Imaging Chips. The firm said they will combine to reduce noise and produce clearer, brighter and more vivid footage.
The company said its latest 360-degree camera is even more durable than its predecessor. Its lenses are crafted from an ultra-durable glass, while its new replaceable lens system makes life easy and enables you to swap out damaged lenses while on the go. Like the firm's Ace Pro 2 action camera, the X5 now includes a built-in wind guard and improved audio algorithm. The multi-layer steel mesh Wind Guard silences wind noise, while the boosted algorithm offers sharp, immersive sound.
If you've never owned a 360-degree camera and have no idea what reframing video is all about, fear not as the X5 has got you covered.
The firm's new InstaFrame Mode simultaneously captures an auto-framed, ready-to-share flat video and a full 360-degree 8K video to edit and tweak later.
Insta360 app has also received some welcome upgrades such as more intuitive editing tools. There is also a new Insta360+ cloud subscription service for storing footage.
Longer lasting, faster-charging battery - The 2400mAh battery supports up to 185 minutes of recording in 5.7K, using the power-saving Endurance Mode. It can also fast charge from 0 to 80 percent in just 20 minutes.
IP68-rated waterproofing to 15m - go even deeper without a dedicated dive housing accessory.
Magnetic mounting system - allows for quick accessory swaps so you're always prepared for the next shot.
FlowState Stabilisation + 360-degree Horizon Lock - still industry-leading for the smoothest shots possible.
Convenient ways to start recording - the new Twist to Shoot feature enables shooting just by twisting a selfie stick back and forth. Other options include Voice Control 2.0, Gesture Control, or pairing with a wireless remote.
To coincide with X5's launch, the Insta360 app has undergone a revamp, with a sleeker user interface and new tools that make editing easier than ever.
A one-tap Dewarp button removes fisheye distortion for natural-looking footage, while one-tap export means you can share your clips on social media instantly. This is in addition to existing features such as Quick Edit and AI Edit for semi-automatic and automatic editing, Shot Lab with more than AI templates. You also get a complete manual editing suite.
There is also free desktop editing software, Insta360 Studio, for those who prefer to edit on a computer.
"X5 redefines 360-degree cameras by solving creators' real challenges," JK Liu, Insta360's founder, said. "From replaceable lenses to AI-powered low-light shooting, we've built our dream camera—rugged enough for adventure, capable enough to produce high quality footage, and intelligent enough to capture epic moments effortlessly."
Insta360 X5 is available to order now from the Insta360 Official Store and Amazon, priced from €589.99.
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