Insta360 X4 review: The only action camera you'll ever need is two in one?

The leading 360-degree action camera is going 8K – will that be enough to stay on top?

5 Star Rating
Insta360 X4
(Image: © Adam Juniper)

Digital Camera World Verdict

The Insta360 X4 takes an already good device and makes it a whole lot better. Not only is it more responsive, but with the boosted resolution and mic compatibility it can now seriously be considered as a replacement for a traditional action camera like a GoPro. Any creative should be looking at this tech, and this is the best example I've seen for most customers.

Pros

  • +

    8K resolution makes a significant difference to 360

  • +

    4K60 single camera means it can be your only action camera

  • +

    Rugged design including detachable lens covers

  • +

    Can connect to external mics like DJI Mic 2

Cons

  • -

    Battery life when shooting 8K could be better

  • -

    You need an invisible selfie stick to get the best shots

  • -

    "Shoot first, frame later" isn't for everyone.

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The Insta360 X4 has some mighty impressive shoes to fill, and – as a 360-degree cameras – it's entering a space which is still very much emerging. By boosting resolution and adding AI features – including gesture control – powered by a new 5nm processor this new camera looks to build on the impressive X3, a camera I'm very fond of (and spent my own hard-earned on).

It's also worth noting you can also use it in single lens mode; with the X4 you're effectively giving yourself two 4K60fps cameras back-to-back. Of course, the real point of a 360-degree camera is to capture the entire world. "Shoot first, frame later" is the mantra. Since you see everything from the camera's perspective a 'selfie stick' is a near-essential accessory. Insta360 has several interesting offerings, one of which enables 'Bullet-time' and all allow for a kind of 'drone without a drone' look.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Resolution v max frame rate8K/30fps, 5.7k/60fps, 4K/100fps,
Stills reolution72MP
Single Lens mode max4K60fps
Timelapse resultion max11MP
Battery Life2290mAh / 135mins (5.7k/30)
ConectivityUSB-C 3.0
StorageMicroSD
Screen size 2.5-inch
Weight204g with battery / 0.45 pounds
Swipe to scroll horizontally
FeaturesHitting the 8K mark is significant, but the range of software goodies isn't to be sniffed at.★★★★★
DesignThe rugged design, firm grip, and one-handed operation, and easy accessory attachment is nailed!★★★★★
PerformanceThe nippy processor makes blazing through the menus easy, and battery is good but we always want more!★★★★
ValueSince you can now treat this as you main action camera too, value is high★★★★★
Kandao QooCam 3

Kandao QooCam 3

The QooCam 3, in our guide to the best 360-degree cameras as a cheaper choice, is worth considering. It's a little lighter and has decent low-light performance. The software isn't as refined, but can still capture a 62 megapixel still.

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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