I have had in the past the Insta360 X2, then the X3 and now I've been trying for a few weeks the new Insta360 X4: I admit, I'm a big fan of this action cam that has revolutionized the sector. This year's model brings a few but substantial innovations that I've tried and I'll tell you about them openly.
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Same design but more autonomy
The Insta360 X4 features a compact and robust design, with a sleek and modern finish. The construction is solid, with a Water resistance up to 10 meters deep without the need for an additional case which is instead recommended beyond this depth. Compared to the previous model, the dimensions have increased slightly in height but it still remains a compact and easy to hold action cam.
Weight is the specification that has seen the greatest increase (203g vs 180g) mainly due to the new 2290mAh battery designed to support autonomy the new 8K H.265 360° resolution is the main novelty of this model.
Il display goes to 2,5″ against the 2,29″ of the previous version, but the most appreciable novelty is theadoption of Corning® Gorilla® Glass which guarantees a high degree of protection, essential for an action cam designed for outdoor use and in extreme conditions. The lenses have also received an upgrade in protection thanks to the adoption of removable protectors already included in the package. If I had them on my X3, I would have saved it some scratches.
The buttons available remain the same. Two on the side remain the same: power and a customizable Q button. Below the display is a button to start shooting/recording and another for the menu that can be customized like the Q button.
Also noteworthy among the accessories is the new cover designed to comfortably hold the X4 even when temperatures rise during 8K shooting.
8K 360° videos are a revolution
The big new feature of the X4 is the jump to recording 8K H.265 360° video, compared to the X5.7's 3K video, with support for up to 30fps. This was achieved by keeping the same sensor as the X3 but introducing a new 5nm AI chip which provides a 140% increase in processing power and allows for more data to be handled simultaneously, which is essential to support the camera's high resolutions and frame rates.
This new resolution marks a real turning point because it allows you to extract 16:9 parts from a 360° video (reframing) while maintaining a good quality comparable to that which we would have by recording with a single lens at 1080P but with all the freedom to be able to choose the framing in post-production.
The results are really really appreciable and allow us to exploit the contents created with the X4 even by mixing them with shots from other cameras without them looking bad. At night and in low light conditions, the results are modest as in the previous model and in all action cams in general.
Video, photo and audio quality
In addition to the new 8K 30fps resolution, lower resolutions have also received an upgrade with improved framerates: 5,7K video at 60 fps, 4K at 100 fps and 4K at 60 fps when shooting in wide angle mode. Star thing for the slow motion which now supports up to 4K 100fps. Nothing shocking but at the same resolution we will receive a greater flow of data and greater flexibility in post production.
Even though we will use the X4 mainly for video, in good lighting conditions it is still capable of taking decent cropped or 360° photos with 18MP or 72MP resolution, more suitable for a 16:9 reframe.
We find the FlowState stabilization technology Insta360 ensures smooth and stable video, even in conditions of fast movement and vibration. This feature is especially useful for activities such as mountain biking, skiing or running.
Even if theX4 audio It remained substantially unchanged from the previous model with the Auto Wind Reduction (default), Active Wind Reduction, Stereo and Direction Focus functions, I appreciated a marked improvement of the wind insulation during my reviews of electric bicycles and scooters. I was disappointed to learn that my original adapter for the X3's external microphone, while identical in appearance, is not compatible with the new model.
Speaking of audio, in addition to voice commands, gestures have been added to start/stop the video and take photos. A feature that I really appreciated because it is much more discreet and usable regardless of the language spoken (Italian is not supported by voice commands)
How to Have a Film Crew Always With You
In general, and therefore also valid for the other cameras in the X series, having a quality cam with a 360° lens has countless advantages because it allows you to take shots without having to commit to choosing the shots. Zoom, crop and effects can be applied in post-production creating eye-catching results even for beginners.
The credit goes to theapplication for smartphones (available for Android, iOS), actually also available for desktop albeit with fewer functions, which has a frightening level of usability. Although presets are available and an entire community from which to take artistic inspiration, it provides an impressive amount of editing tools and effects.
The “magic” is also possible thanks to the algorithm that “clears" in real time the selfie stick making your shots truly 360°. In fact, in the overhead shots, you get the feeling that there is a drone following us in the shots.
Conclusion
The Insta360 X4 is an exceptional action camera that offers a combination of high-quality video, ease of use, and advanced features—so many that it would require multiple articles dedicated to it. Its 360-degree recording, excellent stabilization, and creative modes make it an ideal choice for those who want to capture unforgettable moments with a professional touch. While the price tag of $559,99 may be high for some, the performance and quality of the Insta360 X4 is worth the investment for those looking for the best in action cameras.
Insta360 is available on Official site with a free 114cm Invisible Selfie Stick or alternatively on Amazon at the same price but without a free gift.
