Insta360 Go 3S review — Is the unique tiny cam now as mighty as they say?

Can the self-proclaimed 'world's smallest action camera' finally stand up to the big boys?

Insta360 3S camera in hand next to Action Pod on deck by grass
(Image: © Future)

Digital Camera World Verdict

As you might expect for such a tiny device, it is at once brilliant and imperfect. 4K Dolby Vision video output is great, and the discrete wearability is great, but at the same time, the narrower field of view than the predecessor isn't ideal. Nevertheless, this is truly an action camera which can get shots your phone can't and work in ways which verge on the futuristic.

Pros

  • +

    4K video is great

  • +

    Amazing remote control capability

  • +

    Apple 'Find My' compatibility

  • +

    Stunningly versatile device can change how you make videos

Cons

  • -

    Slightly weightier than its predecessor

  • -

    Sometimes confusing use of red charge/record light on camera

  • -

    The easy clip feels a bit cumbersome

  • -

    Stabilization could be better, especially in low light

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

The Insta360 Go series is a tiny thumb-sized camera which can make other action cameras seem positively chunky, and offers genuinely different possibilities for creators.

It can be worn surprisingly discretely on the body – typically the chest thanks to a magnet chest and an accompanying pendant and, in my testing, made capturing personal perspectives impressively easy.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Aperturef/2.8Row 0 - Cell 2
Focal length16mm EFL (Go 3 was 11mm)Row 1 - Cell 2
Video resolution4K at 30fpsRow 2 - Cell 2
Slow motion2.7K at 100fps / 1080P at 200fpsRow 3 - Cell 2
Stills resolution4000 x 2250 maxRow 4 - Cell 2
ISO range100-3200Row 5 - Cell 2
Waterproof10m / 33ft (double Go 3)Row 6 - Cell 2
WeightCamera: 39.1g, Pod 96.3g (1.38oz + 3.4oz)Row 7 - Cell 2
Battery lifeCamera: 38min (+Pod 140min)Row 8 - Cell 2
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FeaturesWith 4K, the live remote control and smooth app syncing, not to mention Find My, features are extensive★★★★★
DesignOverall, the concept is brilliantly executed given the limitations physics imposes; everything feels robust and the pendant is comfortable★★★★★
PerformanceThe system has some issues in low-light and with image stabilization (the later may be improved with firmware)★★★½☆
ValueBecause of regular savings on premium action cameras which are better in low light, it is difficult to say this is great value unless you need the POV flexibility – in which case there isn't really any competition.★★★★☆

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Adam Juniper
Managing Editor

With over 20 years of expertise as a tech journalist, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge across a vast number of product categories, including timelapse cameras, home security cameras, NVR cameras, photography books, webcams, 3D printers and 3D scanners, borescopes, radar detectors… and, above all, drones. 

Adam is our resident expert on all aspects of camera drones and drone photography, from buying guides on the best choices for aerial photographers of all ability levels to the latest rules and regulations on piloting drones. 

He is the author of a number of books including The Complete Guide to Drones, The Smart Smart Home Handbook, 101 Tips for DSLR Video and The Drone Pilot's Handbook