Insta360 X3 Released – New 1/2″ Sensor, Bigger Screen, and Improved Recording

Camera News

by Jeff LochSeptember 8^th, 2022

Insta360 has just released a new dual-lens 360° camera designed from the ground up, the Insta360 X3. This new model features a bigger 1/2″ image sensor, a massive 2.29″ touchscreen in front of the camera, and it can capture 360° footage in 5.7K, 8K 360° time lapses, and 72MP pictures. So let’s take a closer look at it!

Over the years, Insta360 built a solid reputation for its action and 360° cameras. We’ve been delighted by the image and features of the Insta360 ONE RS we reviewed here. Only a month after the launch of the Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch 360 Edition, the company is already back with a new model: the Insta360 X3.

So, without further ado, here’s the launch video for this brand new 360° action camera:

New screen, dimensions, and input/output ports

The Insta360 X3 is a reasonably compact 11.4 x 4.6 x 3.3 cm action camera, weighing 180 grams. The camera has two 6.7 mm F/1.9 lenses at the front and back.

Out of the box, you’ll immediately notice the new 2.29″ touchscreen in front of the camera. It’ll make navigating inside the menu and framing your shots a lot easier.

For those who plan to use the Insta360 X3 in the snow with gloves, don’t worry: there are four physical buttons (two at the front and two on the right side) to control the camera. Furthermore, the X3 is waterproof up to 33 ft / 10 m. Additionally, lens guards are available for action sports creators who want to push the limits further.

On the camera’s left, you’ll find the battery slot that houses a new 1.800mAh battery that extends the maximum run time to 81 min, according to the company. On top of the battery slot, you’ll find a USB type-C port to charge the camera in under 90 min (5V/3A). Along the right side, you’ll find the microSD card slot. Lastly, there is a 1/4″-20 mounting point at the bottom of the Insta360 X3, so you can attach it to a selfie stick or any moving vehicle you like.

Insta360 X3 recording modes

Let’s jump to the exciting part for filmmakers, the Insta360 X3 recording capabilities! On the inside, the new 1/2″ image sensor allows you to record footage in several formats.

360° mode (insv format):

• 5.7K: 5760×2880 at 30/25/24fps.
• 4K: 3840×1920 at 60/30fps.

Single-Lens Mode (mp4 format):

• 4K: 3840×2160 at 30/25/24fps
• 3.6K: 3584×2016 at 60/50/30/25/24fps
• 2.7K: 2720×1530 at 60/50/30/25/24fps
• 1080p: 1920×1088 at 60/50/30/25/24fps

These resolutions and frame rates are impressive, but videos are recorded with a maximum bit rate of 120Mbps, so we’ll have to see how the footage holds up in post. Also, you can record footage in Vivid, Standard, or Log color profile. In photo mode, you can shoot pictures in 72MP (11.968 x 5984) or 18MP (5952 x 2976) resolution in DNG RAW on INSP formats.

Shooting modes, effects, and image stabilization

Regarding shooting modes, the X3’s 360 video quality has also improved with a new Active HDR mode. This mode uses an innovative algorithm to stabilize action footage, minimizing ghosting and revealing details.

Talking about recording modes, there is a new handy Loop Recording mode that transforms the X3 into a dashcam, continuously recording video but only saving the final minutes according to your set interval. Saving recording time is always a cool thing!

Furthermore, a new Me Mode allows you to shoot invisible selfie shots at 60fps without reframing. This mode frames the footage to focus on you while keeping the selfie stick hidden. Previous effects like Bullet Time or the Matrix-like slow motion effect are still available with a boost in resolution and frame rates to 4K 120fps and 3K 180fps.

Lastly, the X3 features a built-in six-axis gyroscope, and FlowState stabilization will keep your footage as stable as it can be.

Insta360 X3 connectivity

Inside the Insta360 X3, you’ll find all the previous Bluetooth 5.0 and Wi-Fi 5Ghz connectivity.

Of course, the camera is compatible with iOS and Android devices for mobile video editing with the Insta360 mobile app. Insta360 Studio is also available for precise controls and maximized resolution for creators who prefer a desktop workflow.

Price and availability

The Insta360 X3 is available to order now for $449.99, which is only $20 more than its predecessor, the ONE X2.

For more information, please visit Insta360’s website here.

What do you think about this new Insta360 camera? Do you often shoot 360 videos? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments down below!