Latest news with #Insta360
CNET
a day ago
- CNET
Insta360 X5 360 Camera Review: Capture the World in One Shot
8.9 / 10 SCORE Insta360 X5 Pros Excellent image quality Easy to use Replaceable lenses Cons Expensive X4 is cheaper and almost as good Insta360 X5 8.9/10 CNET Score Insta360's X5 is easily the best 360 camera ever (for consumers, at least). It's even easier to use than previous models, has big (for an action cam) image sensors for better dynamic range and low-light performance, and best of all, it has user-replaceable lenses. It's also quite expensive. Its photo and video resolutions aren't any higher than its predecessor, the X4. So, in many situations, the image quality will be similar. So while it's not a huge leap for a new model, there are a number of worthwhile improvements that make it a better option if you can afford it. I gave the X5 a quick look when it first launched, but after spending more time with the camera, here's what I think as someone who has tested nearly every consumer 360 camera ever and uses them regularly. Specs and hardware Geoffrey Morrison/CNET If you've used or seen any of Insta360's recent 360 cameras, the X5 shares more than a passing familial resemblance. It continues their "candy bar" design, with a 2.7-inch touchscreen and four physical buttons. Generally speaking, in my experience at least, this shape and size make the X5 and its predecessors easy to use and carry when not in use. The large touchscreen makes navigating menus and settings a breeze while letting you get a sense of what you just shot without having to connect to your phone. Insta360 X5 specs Photo resolution 72 megapixels (11,904x5,952) Video resolution 8K30 (spherical) Sensor size 1/1.28-inch (x2) Lens 6mm (35mm equivalent) f/2 (x2) Image stabilization Digital Screen type 2.7-inch LCD touchscreen Storage MicroSD/SDXC Weight 200g The X5's headline feature is the larger image sensors compared to the X4 -- well, compared to the X4 and most other 360 and action cameras. The dual 1/1.28-inch sensors, 44% larger than the X4's 1/2-inch sensors, are also larger than the 1/1.7-inch ones found in the KanDao QooCam 3 Ultra and the 1/1.9-inch ones in the GoPro Hero 13 Black. While sensor size isn't a guarantee of better image quality, larger sensors theoretically mean greater dynamic range and better performance in low-light situations. Larger image sensors are certainly noteworthy, but the biggest improvement of the X5 is the addition of user-replaceable lenses. This is a big deal, and its importance can't be overstated. Like I said, I've used 360 cameras since the days when Ricoh was the only consumer option, and I've lost track of how many I've wrecked with a cracked or scratched lens. I'm typically extremely careful with my camera gear, but 360 camera lenses protrude from the body. A lot. You have to be really careful with them. Even if you're careful, accidents happen. Recently, I stepped into the shade while hiking at Arches National Park, and the camera, mounted on my backpack and slightly above me, brushed against an outcropping. Oops. That lens was toast. Geoffrey Morrison/CNET While you could send the camera for lens replacement, that would take time and cost a small fee. Lens guards are also available, but they could reduce image quality, and you'd have to remember to put them on. Which is to say, having the option to replace the lenses if you're an idiot like me is brilliant and a long time coming. There are a few more minor improvements still worth mentioning. The X5 is waterproof to 49 feet (15 meters), an improvement from the X4's 33 feet (10 meters. The mic has a built-in wind guard for better sound when recording outside. The battery is slightly larger, 2,400-mAh versus 2,290-mAh, but this will likely only add a few minutes of additional recording at the same resolutions and framerates compared to the X4. Still, more is more, and if it means getting a shot I would've otherwise missed, it's a good thing. Usability and photo quality A Tiny Planet photo, one of the ways you can edit a 360 image, taken with the X5. In this case not only showing yours truly but its immediate processor, the X4. Yes, I routinely look this cool when testing cameras. Images in this section are as close to "out of the camera" as is possible with a 360 camera, mostly with only Insta360's Color Plus active and just slight touches to contrast. Geoffrey Morrison/CNET Using the X5 largely feels like using the X4 and other recent Insta360 cameras. Swiping the screen or pressing one of the buttons lets you select one of the variety of video and picture modes. A few more taps on the screen let you select resolutions and frame rates, and broadly speaking, that's all you need to do. There's no need to aim, as the camera captures everything. Framing remains the biggest challenge with good 360 photography and videography, in a fun way. You can get wildly different results with the camera above and behind you (like a drone following you), in front of you (your own invisible cameraman) and so on. Oh, to be as chill as this turtle. Geoffrey Morrison/CNET There are two new modes worth discussing: PureVideo and InstaFrame. One of the most time-consuming aspects of shooting 360 is editing to post it anywhere. However, the variety of possible results is 360's biggest strength, so it's a trade-off. The InstaFrame mode aims to address both of these aspects. It records two videos at the same time -- actually, one video that the camera crops in real time and saves as a separate file. The result is a 360 video you can edit as normal, but also a 16:9 or 9:16 1080p cropped video that either tracks a subject or shows a fixed view from the front or rear lens. So, for example, let's say you're hiking while recording in this mode. As soon as you hit stop, you'll have a video you can share on social media once you download it to your phone. Or, if during recording a bear jumps out in front of you to say, "Hi," you can edit the 360 file to show the bear and your reaction. Best of both worlds, especially if you regularly record videos that match one of the preset views. The only limitation is frame rate maxes out at 30 instead of 60. You can also just use one of the X5's lenses, taking 36-megapixel images or 4K60 video. Geoffrey Morrison/CNET PureVideo attempts to improve low-light video recording and largely succeeds. ("Largely" being the key word, as it's still not great.) Videos are typically brighter and often less noisy than previous 360 cameras, but there can still be some wobble in fine details if the camera is moving. Anything in motion can also blur, and there's a fair amount of processing artifacts. However, it's markedly better than most 360 cameras, and even the X5 itself in regular video modes, which is to say the results are actually usable. So it's definitely an improvement. Comparing low-light performance to the Kandao QooCam 3 Ultra, however, shows why sensor size doesn't tell the full story. Even though the 3 Ultra uses slightly smaller sensors, its lenses have a brighter f/1.6 aperture. That's two-thirds of a stop faster, which doesn't sound like a lot, but it means roughly 66% more light hitting the sensor. So while the 3 Ultra's video is still a little soft and not quite as bright, it's a bit of a wash as to which looks better. If what you want is a recording you can share and that will let people see what's going on, either will work. If what you want is great low-light image quality like what you can get during the day, neither will. Geoffrey Morrison/CNET Overall, though, image quality is very good, among the best I've seen in a 360 camera. There's great dynamic range and detail, but it's not a huge improvement in normal lighting compared to the X4. Better? Yes, but if you already have an X4, the image quality alone (unless you shoot in low light a lot) shouldn't be why you're upgrading. If you're not a fan of doing a lot of editing, direct out of the camera, the photos and videos from X5 can be a little better, or at least more interesting-looking, than photos and videos direct from the QooCam 3 Ultra. However, if you don't mind a little post processing, the 3 Ultra gives you a little more room to get the result you want, not least for its ability to capture 96-megapixel images and 10-bit LOG video. A shot made possible by putting the X5 into some flowers to create a frame. Geoffrey Morrison/CNET Speaking of processing, Insta360's color science has a distinct aesthetic, which you can see in the images in this section. It's extra vibrant and a little on the warm side. You can edit them in the app, or if you want to go a step further, you can also shoot raw and get them to look however you want. The app, conveniently, has all the tools you'll need to adjust the final result. Except for 72-megapixel images on Android, that is. You can crop them, but for other editing, you'll need a separate app or use Insta360's desktop app. Recent iPhones don't have this issue. Geoffrey Morrison/CNET In every one of the X5's modes, other than InstaFrame or Single-Lens, you're going to have to edit your photos and videos to be able to share them. Insta360 has had the best app for this for many years, and the latest version mostly improves on that. You can manually create videos fairly easily, cutting what's boring and focusing on what's interesting. You can combine multiple clips into a single video, speed up and slow down what you have, add royalty-free music, adjust color and other picture settings and so on. It's a full-featured video and picture editor. There are "AI" options as well that will attempt to create a video for you. My only complaint, and it's a weird one, is that there is a lot going on here. It's good that Insta360 regularly adds features, but with every new feature, the app gets bigger and more complex. There's a learning curve here, and anyone new to 360 cameras should factor in a bit of time to learn how it all works before they head out on an adventure. Thankfully, there are tutorials built into the app to help, and the first time you use it, you're led through the basics. You can see a few more images I took with the X5 in my first look: I Tried Insta360's New X5 360 Camera. It's Full of Impressive Upgrades. A 360 world Note the invisible selfie stick (you can see its shadow on the wall to my left). Most 360 cameras can do this trick, and when shooting video, it can make it look like you have a drone or cameraman. Geoffrey Morrison/CNET The bottom line It's odd that I can say something like "This is the best all-around 360 camera I've used" and still be somewhat reserved in my actual recommendation of it. Don't get me wrong, that is a true statement. This is a fantastic camera. It takes everything that was good about the X4, a brilliant camera in its own right, and improves in several key ways. Larger image sensors are almost always a good thing, the new InstaFrame mode is incredibly handy, and while the battery isn't that much larger, every bit helps. When I look at the price difference, though, $125 or 30% as of this writing, I hesitate. The X4 is a really, really good camera, and in many situations, the X5's larger sensors aren't going to be that noticeable. If you're taking the camera down to depths where the added waterproofing matters, you should probably just buy a dive case for either camera anyway. Since the resolutions and frame rates are the same, for most people, the results they'll get will be nearly identical for most shots with either camera. However, the replaceable lenses are a huge selling point, even just for the peace of mind. Even a minor scratch in the middle of a lens can and will ruin your shots. So that, plus significantly better low-light performance and all the rest, do make it a better option than the X4 if I were buying one today. So the X5 is the best 360 camera, but if you're unsure why sensors matter and you don't mind lens protectors, the X4 and some accessories will do just fine. In addition to covering cameras and display tech, Geoff does photo tours of cool museums and locations around the world, including nuclear submarines, aircraft carriers, medieval castles, epic 10,000-mile road trips and more. Also, check out Budget Travel for Dummies, his travel book, and his bestselling sci-fi novel about city-sized submarines. You can follow him on Instagram and YouTube.
CNET
2 days ago
- Business
- CNET
Insta360's Link 2 Webcam Bundle Is a Massive $50 Off Ahead of July 4th
For a better way to stream from your laptop or attend online courses, meetings and interviews, a webcam is ideal. Today's webcams have better color, AI features and even 4K resolution support, so you always have a clear video feed. And we've spotted the Insta360 Link 2 webcam bundle for just $150 at Amazon -- that's $50 cheaper -- just ahead of this year's major summer shopping events (Fourth of July and Prime Day). This price also represents a new low for this bundle. The Insta360 Link 2 webcam is compatible with PC and Mac devices and requires a simple USB-C connection. The Insta360 Link 2 webcam has AI algorithms that cancel ambient noises for clear sound and fewer distractions, which is perfect for online teaching, presentations and streaming. It focuses on you so that anyone in your online meetings or hangs gets crisp video, thanks to Phase Detection Auto Focus (PDAF). Insta360's Link 2 has three modes for optimal lighting and focus: whiteboard, desk view and portrait mode. Need more privacy? You can blur or change your background -- which is especially handy for parents who don't want toys or clutter to distract viewers. This bundle includes the webcam, a USB-C cable, a USB-C to USB-A adapter, a magnetic mount and four recognition markers. On the lookout for a webcam but aren't sure if this deal is for you? Check out our list of the best gear for online classes or meetings, where we've curated multiple webcams and accessories. We're also keeping up with Fourth of July and upcoming Prime Day deals across all categories, so check back with us. Why this deal matters This Insta360 Link 2 webcam offers 4K resolution, clear images and distraction-free sound-canceling AI algorithms that can reduce extraneous noise while presenting or streaming. Plus, this bundle includes a USB-C cable, adapter and magnetic gimbal so you can start using it right away. At a massive $50 off, this deal is perfect for streamers, instructors and people who want to stand out during professional video calls.
The Verge
2 days ago
- Business
- The Verge
Insta360's face-tracking Link 2 webcam is more affordable than ever
The Insta360 Link 2 is more than just a webcam — it's a smart camera that actively follows your movements whether you're presenting, streaming, or pacing during a call. It's also packed with an impressive array of productivity features. And right now, it's available at a new all-time low of $149.99 ($50 off) at Amazon. The webcam is a modest upgrade over the original Link, which was our favorite 4K webcam when it launched in 2022, boasting all the same impressive features with slight refinements. Like the original, it offers sharp, detailed 4K/30fps video even in low-light settings. But what really sets the Link 2 apart is its motorized three-axis gimbal, which keeps you perfectly centered in frame as you move around the room. The Link 2 also comes with a magnetic mount, letting you attach it to a wider range of surfaces without the need for additional mounting gear. In addition to its exceptional tracking abilities, the Link 2 features an AI-powered framing tool that automatically zooms and adjusts the shot to focus on your head, upper body, or full body, depending on your distance from the camera. It now supports customizable 'no-follow zones,' allowing you to prevent the camera from tracking movement in specific areas of the room for greater framing control. The Link 2's also far better suited for group presentations than its predecessor, thanks to an upgraded tracking system that can now follow multiple presenters simultaneously. At the same time, the webcam retains a suite of software features that help cut down on the extra gadgets typically needed for presentations. DeskView angles the camera slightly downward to showcase your workspace, while Overhead Mode captures top-down shots perfect for demos or unboxings. Whiteboard Mode utilizes included stickers to lock onto a presentation surface, keeping it in focus throughout meetings or tutorials. The Insta360 Link 2 offers the same auto-swiveling design as its predecessor, but is now smaller with new features like group tracking and no-follow zones. Sign up for Verge Deals to get deals on products we've tested sent to your inbox weekly.
The Verge
6 days ago
- Business
- The Verge
Insta360's new $110 Flow 2 gimbal sacrifices some useful pro features
Insta360 has announced a new version of its entry-level smartphone gimbal. The new Insta360 Flow 2 includes many of the upgrades introduced on the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro that launched earlier this year including multi person tracking and the ability to use the Apple Watch as a remote control. But you're also going to lose useful features like the ability to use alternate camera apps, including the iPhone's native one, by saving yourself $50. The original Flow launched in 2023 for $159.99 but has since dropped in price following the introduction of the company's pro models. The new Insta360 Flow 2 is available now through the company's online store and Amazon in stone grey and summit white color options for $109.99 on its own. It can also be purchased in a $129.99 bundle that includes Insta360's AI Tracker accessory that handles subject tracking so you can use any smartphone camera app you prefer. For those who don't need pro features the Flow 2 could be a more affordable alternative, but it's still more expensive than DJI's $89 Osmo Mobile 7 that launched last February. Like the pro version, the Insta360 Flow 2 features a built-in extending selfie stick, a set of short metal tripod legs so it can stand on its own, and up to 10 hours of use from its 1,100mAh battery which will be reduced when using the gimbal in handheld mode given it requires continuous stabilization. Using NFC the Flow 2 can automatically connect to smartphones over Bluetooth and launch the Insta360 app which features the company's Deep Track 4.0 technology that can keep individual subjects or groups of people in frame, even when temporarily obstructed by things like passing cars. The app also features a new teleprompter feature that will automatically scroll a script while recording and tracking you. So what are you sacrificing by choosing the Flow 2 over the Flow 2 Pro and saving $50? The cheaper gimbal doesn't have a selfie mirror on the back of the smartphone mount that lets you see yourself while recording selfie videos using a phone's rear camera, and it doesn't have the Pro's glowing ring light that makes it easier to see when tracking is working. The Flow 2 also doesn't have infinite 360-degree panning, so it can't keep you in frame while you're walking in circles around the gimbal. But the most notable omission is that it doesn't support Apple's DockKit framework which allows the Flow 2 Pro to track subjects using iOS' native camera app and third-party alternatives. You'll need to stick with Insta360's app when using the Flow 2, or pay an extra $20 for the dedicated tracking add-on if you want to use your preferred camera app.
Engadget
6 days ago
- Business
- Engadget
Insta360 has a cheaper Flow 2 gimbal for the masses
Insta360's new gimbal isn't quite "Pro," but its pricing isn't, either. The Flow 2 includes many of the features from the Flow 2 Pro while costing $50 less. The Insta360 Flow 2 ticks most of the boxes that its Pro sibling does. (The more expensive gimbal launched earlier this year.) Like that model, the Flow 2 features a built-in selfie stick and a tripod. It supports advanced subject tracking, golden ratio subject framing and a built-in spotlight. Also carrying over is NFC one-tap pairing and teleprompter mode. But if you're an iPhone user, there's one big omission. The Flow 2 doesn't support Apple DockKit, which enables seamless control of motorized docks. You can make up for much of that with Insta360's AI tracker accessory. However, it costs extra. At that point, your total price will creep closer to that of the Pro model. So, it would be wise to break down your specific needs before making a decision. There are a few other differences. The standard model also lacks the Pro's selfie mirror, which lets you check your framing and appearance on the fly. Its tracking mobility is more limited than the Pro model's 360-degree version. There's no Free Tilt mode either. (That's the feature that lets you angle your phone in unique and creative ways.) Nor is there a tracking ring light on the standard gimbal. If none of those omissions affect your workflow, the Flow 2 could help you save a few bucks. The Insta360 costs $110. The company also offers a bundle with the AI tracker accessory for $130. (Otherwise, the AI tracker is a separate $40 purchase.) The gimbal is now available from the company's website and retailers like Amazon. If you buy something through a link in this article, we may earn commission.
