Insta360 X5 Review: The New King of 360 Cameras is Here

Insta360 X5
Photo by Maik Kleinert on Unsplash

If you’re into immersive content, action-packed adventures, or just love capturing every angle of life, the Insta360 X5 might be your new best friend. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the X3, the X5 brings a host of upgrades that make it a compelling choice for both professionals and hobbyists.

What’s New in the Insta360 X5?

The X5 isn’t just a minor update; it’s a significant leap forward. Here’s what sets it apart:

  • 8K 360° Video: Capture stunningly detailed 8K videos that make your content pop.
  • Improved Low-Light Performance: Thanks to larger sensors, nighttime and indoor shots look better than ever.
  • Replaceable Lenses: A first for Insta360, allowing for easier maintenance and potential future upgrades.
  • Enhanced Stabilization: FlowState Stabilization ensures buttery-smooth footage, even during intense action.
  • AI-Powered Editing: The companion app offers smart editing features, making post-production a breeze.

Design and Build

The X5 maintains the sleek, vertical design of the X3 but feels more robust in hand. It’s waterproof up to 10 meters without a case, making it perfect for underwater adventures. The touchscreen is responsive and bright, even under direct sunlight.

Performance and Usability

In real-world use, the X5 shines. The 8K footage is crisp, with vibrant colors and impressive dynamic range. The improved low-light performance means you can capture clear videos even in challenging lighting conditions. The AI editing tools are intuitive, allowing for quick reframing and exporting in various aspect ratios suitable for different platforms.

Price and Value

The Insta360 X5 starts at $549.99 for the standard bundle, which includes the camera but not a microSD card. Various bundles are available:

  • Get-Set Bundle: $581 – Includes a lens cap and a 114cm invisible selfie stick.
  • Premium Lens Guards Bundle: $616 – Adds premium lens guards to the Get-Set Bundle.
  • No Drone No Problem Bundle: $656 – Comes with an enhanced extended edition selfie stick.
  • Motorcycle Multiview Bundle: $646 – Includes a heavy-duty clamp and action invisible selfie stick.
  • Snowboard Bundle: $606 – Tailored for winter sports enthusiasts.
  • Invisible Dive Bundle: $700 – Designed for underwater filming.

Given its features, the X5 offers excellent value, especially for content creators looking to elevate their work.