Insta360 X5-8K 360 Camera with Dual 1/1.28" Sensors

The short version is that the Insta360 X5 is a seriously impressive camera, but it is not simply an “action camera” in the old sense. Used well, it feels more like a compact production tool that gives you shots which would otherwise be awkward, risky or impossible to capture with a conventional camera. The biggest strength is the freedom it gives you after filming. The X5 records high-resolution 360 footage up to 8K/30fps, which gives you a lot of flexibility when reframing afterwards. You can shoot first, then decide later where the camera appears to be pointing. For travel, BTS, cycling, walking shots, vehicle interiors, property videos, social content, or any situation where you cannot easily monitor the frame, that is incredibly useful. It removes a lot of the anxiety of missing the shot. The X5-specific improvements are where it becomes more than just another 360 camera. The larger dual 1/1.28” sensors, 8K capture, improved processing and PureVideo mode all make a real difference to how usable the footage feels. In terms of image quality, it will not replace a large sensor mirrorless camera with proper glass, controlled lighting and a carefully exposed image, but that is not really the point. For a camera this small, the detail, stabilisation and flexibility are excellent. In good light, the results can look very polished, especially if you take the time to expose carefully and process the footage properly. PureVideo deserves specific mention because it is one of the features that really separates the X5 from earlier models. Low light is where small cameras usually fall apart quickly, becoming noisy, mushy or unpleasant-looking. PureVideo gives the X5 a much wider practical range, especially for evening scenes, interiors, shaded locations or situations where the light is less than ideal. I would still treat good light as your friend, but this mode makes the camera far more useful when conditions are not perfect. The stabilisation enables footage that can look almost impossibly smooth, even when the camera itself is moving in ways that would normally be unusable. This makes it particularly valuable for dynamic shots where using a gimbal would be inconvenient or would slow everything down. FlowState stabilisation and horizon lock are not just marketing points here; they are a big part of why the footage feels so usable. The built-in mics are not a replacement for a dedicated wireless mic or proper external audio when speech really matters, but they are useful for ambient sound or quick pieces to camera and general run-and-gun use. The X5 includes wind reduction, voice enhancement, stereo and 360 audio modes, which makes sense for a camera designed to capture the environment around it. Used sensibly, the onboard sound is good enough to be part of the final piece rather than just a scratch track. The X5 starts to produce shots that do not look as though they came from a normal handheld camera at all. It is possible to create floating, tracking, drone-like or third-person-style angles with very little equipment. Top tip: if you want to avoid shadows from the stick, shooting in grey overcast weather is your friend. The 15m waterproofing, rugged build and user-replaceable lens system also make the X5 feel much more confidence-inspiring in real-world use. With any 360 camera, the lenses are exposed by design, so you still need to be sensible. But the fact that the lenses can be replaced is a major practical improvement. It makes the camera feel ready for proper use rather than something to keep wrapped in cotton wool. Standard 360 capture is the main attraction, but PureVideo, single-lens shooting, InstaFrame, timelapse, slow motion and other creative modes mean it is not limited to one trick. I would not buy it just for the extra modes alone, but they do make the camera more adaptable, especially PureVideo in low light. The app and Insta360 Studio are a major part of the experience; allowing you to reframe footage, track subjects, change viewpoints, create smooth pans, export standard flat video and produce different edits from the same original clip. That is where the X5 really starts to make sense, because you are not just recording a view; you are recording a space, then choosing how to present it afterwards. Used thoughtfully, one short recording can deliver several usable shots. For professional or semi-professional use the X5 is strong enough to produce complete pieces of content, especially for travel, action, BTS, walkthroughs and social media. At the same time, it is excellent for flexible B-roll that can be dropped into a longer video shot on a mirrorless or cinema-style setup. Used that way, it quickly adds production value, capturing perspectives that would otherwise require more equipment, more time or greater risk. Overall, I think the Insta360 X5 is an excellent piece of kit. It rewards a bit of thought and technique, but it also makes advanced-looking shots much easier to achieve. The combination of 8K 360 capture, PureVideo, strong stabilisation, replaceable lenses, waterproofing and flexible editing makes it a very strong choice for anyone who wants a small camera that can capture shots a normal camera would miss. It is not a replacement for every camera, but as a creative tool it opens up possibilities when used properly.

The first thing I noticed was the big improvement in low-light performance. It has dual 1/1.28″ sensors and three AI chips. Shadows now show detail, highlights don’t get washed out, and there is much less noise compared to the X3 or even the X4. They have now added a new feature in the last software upgrade called ‘Adaptive Tone’, which is supposed to improve even further, but I have not had a chance to try it yet. One of my favourite new features is InstaFrame Mode. It provides a ready-to-share flat 1080p video in selfie-view or fixed mode, while also capturing a full 360° file at 5.7K at 30 fps. So if you need quick social clips but want to revisit the full reframed version later, you’re all set. Then there's the replaceable lens design. I often worry about scratching equipment and have dropped my camera on several occasions. I don’t like to use lens shields as I do believe this compromises quality. Let's face it, with my DSLR expensive lenses of £2,700, would you put a £10 filter on the front? Well, I hope not! Being able to pop off and swap lenses myself, without having to ship the whole camera, is a total game-changer. Battery life and heat management have improved, too. The battery is more powerful, but the camera needs it, so it’s not going to last the whole day. It needs more power than the X3, and I think battery time is a little better on the X3. If I am honest, the cameras do as usual, get hot, but x2/x3/x5, I have never had any issue with the camera switching off. Now, let’s talk about PureShot in photos. This new AI-powered HDR-like mode blends exposures in one shot. The results are vibrant and crisp, with far fewer blown highlights. It works beautifully in low light, especially at night or in backlit scenes, without needing manual exposure bracketing. In short, upgrading from the X3 made sense because the X5 doesn’t just refine; it redefines. You get cleaner 8K and 5.7K footage, smooth 4K 120fps slow motion, InstaFrame convenience, PureShot brilliance in stills, waterproof durability, better audio with a built-in wind muffler, and easy repairability, all in the same sleek design. Here’s why I upgraded from the X3: Low-light boost: Much cleaner images with higher dynamic range due to upgraded sensors and AI. PureShot mode: One-shot HDR style photos that are vibrant and ready to edit. InstaFrame mode: Simultaneous flat and 360 capture cuts down editing time. Replaceable lenses: Less worry about accidents, cheaper and faster to fix. Better battery and thermal control: Longer shooting sessions and fewer shut downs. If your content depends on flexibility, light performance, and ease of use, especially for low-light or quick social uploads, the X5 is worth the upgrade. The sample video was shot at Fantasy Forest Festival. There is a water droplet on some sections, as it was raining at that time

Paired with my pro ace 2 this X5 does it all. I love its versatility and the fact you can replace the lenses at home. Its been such a game changer for me when filming. The battery lasts for hours of continuous filming and the ai editing function on the app helps create quick videos to post. Its waterproof and tough. Ive dropped it a few times and never had any issues.

First foray into 360 video and have been blown away by the x5. I use it for personal use (not YouTube etc) and the picture quality is excellent. It really is simple to use and I have got some incredible footage I simply could not of got with a normal camera. The editing app is pretty easy to use once you have got used to it. It does get hot when using, I sent my original purchase back because I thought this was a problem, but it has never cut out and I have used it constantly over the last 2 months. I would definitely recommend it. On another note, I bought a carbon fibre 3m selfie pole off Amazon (Gutahare) it looks exactly the same as the insta one but is £40 cheaper.

Yes, the Insta360 X5 is a fantastic camera—a huge upgrade from my previous X3. Yet despite all the amazing capabilities you’ve probably seen in YouTube reviews, for the hefty £519 price tag, it might loose half a star. Read below. I previously had an issue with frame rates but Insta customer service got in touch and fixed it. Credit to a company that cares for its customers - not all companies are like that. Maybe loses half a star? For that price, I expect lens guards to be included. I mean, we’re talking about a 360 camera where both lenses are constantly exposed. Selling it without protection feels a bit cheeky. And cheap. Yes, you can replace the lenses now, but I still feel like those big, bulging, protruding, precious lenses need to be protected, and included in the £519 price. (I just forked out another £35 for a set of premium lens protectors.) But this is really is a great camera. FYI - DJI is about to release their own 360 camera (at time of writing in May 2025) so might be worth waiting to see what they come out with.

The Insta 360 x5 camera an amazing camera once you learn the right setup. Built well nothing like the Insta 360 1 which l had many years ago bigger better screen and sensor for better image quality and in low light. Does not always come out perfect but that could how you holding the Insta at the time. So mastering the use of the insta will give better video and photos. Now 8K so big but how many watch in 8K but does help when downsizing the video to 4K. As much more has been pack in you recording. New battery are needed as the Insta 4 battery do not work with 5. Which is a same meaning a whole new setup need with charger and batteries. The other extra tool mounts case and covers over the lens. Well old stuff can still be used, What l like about this one bigger screenful better in the hand. Image details are better not 100% better. But better and pure view low much better. But as long as said you have to know how to use the camera right other you find stitch lines appearing at time. Like the footage what come out of the Insta once setup right. Meaning less time is need post adjusting colors. May beed a tweet but not to bad to sharing on most platforms. Over well don't insta better upgraded compared to the 3/4 .... 360 spin round camera. Why not 5 these types of camera are costly not over £500 a lot on money for most like myself to buy one. But managed to get one reduce. Otherwise it would have been many months before l bought this Insta 360 x5.

Amazing 360 camera!, I mainly bought it for its enhanced audio and low light features because I plan to use it on my Ghost Hunts, so far in testing it performs really well! Great video clarity even in low light. I had no trouble at all activating this camera so I don't know why some others are having difficulty?!, the set up was very easy and straight forward.

A very nice upgrade from the x4, Quality hardware, feels very premium, sensor improvements and best of all replacement lens ! Game changer !! Generally every aspect is better and essentially for same price as x4 when launched !!! Ignore activation scare stories, solutions for android users available on day 1, not a show stopper. For anybody needing their excellent support use [email protected] Nice one insta ! Next can we have a 1-inch 8k 60 fps please :-)

Very reasonable price lower from the physical store. Amazing.

I’ve been using the Insta360 X5 for my travels and even for my daily walks, and I can honestly say it’s one of the best gadgets I’ve ever owned. The video quality is amazing, the stabilization is incredibly smooth, and it’s so easy to use. I love how I can capture every moment without worrying about missing the perfect angle. Whether I’m exploring a new place, taking a scenic walk, or just creating memories with my family, the Insta360 X5 has become my go-to camera and my best travel buddy. The battery life is great, it’s portable, and the features make every video look professional with very little effort. If you’re looking for a reliable action camera that delivers outstanding quality and versatility, I highly recommend the Insta360 X5. It’s definitely worth it! I love my insta 360 X5

Excelente Câmera, perfeita para filmagens não convencionais, mas exige um bom smartphone ou computador para editar os vídeos.

Best sports camera ever had. Easy to use. No adjustment needed to get the right frame. All can be done in the 360 studio. Need a little bit of time to get used to navigate the 360 Studio, to do the editing. Once you get the hang of it, it's a breeze.

Ich bin bisher Nutzer der Insta360 X und später X3 gewesen. Nun habe ich auf die X5 geupgradet, weshalb ich meine Rezension auf diesen Umstieg beziehe. Kurzfazit vorab: Die Insta360 X5 ist nicht einfach ein Upgrade zur X3 – sie ist eine komplett neue Generation. Mit drastisch verbesserter Bildqualität, schnellerem Prozessor, austauschbaren Objektivlinsen und deutlich professionellerem Handling ist sie der neue Goldstandard unter den kompakten 360-Grad-Kameras. 💡 Im Vergleich zur X3: Ein Riesen-Sprung nach vorn Ich habe sowohl die Insta360 X3 als auch jetzt die neue X5 intensiv genutzt – und der Unterschied ist gewaltig: Bildqualität: Die X5 liefert eine um ein Vielfaches bessere Bildqualität. Selbst bei schwierigen Lichtverhältnissen sind Details klar, Farben natürlich und Rauschen deutlich reduziert. Das ist vor allem dem neuen 1/1,28-Zoll-Sensor (Dual) zu verdanken. Das Audio wurde auch deutlich verbessert, dank eingebautem Windschutz beim Mikro. Zudem wird später ein kleines Bluetooth-Mikro auf den Markt kommen. Bildprozessor: Der neue Prozessor sorgt für extrem schnelle Verarbeitung, flüssige Vorschauen und schnelleren Export – ein echter Effizienzgewinn im Workflow. Intelligente, neue Modi wie der Instaframe-Mode (wo man einerseits gleich eine zugeschnittene Version und andererseits dennoch das 360 Video abgespeichert bekommt) sind ebenso mit an Bord. Zudem wurde die App verbessert. Belichtung (Exposure): Die automatische Belichtung arbeitet deutlich intelligenter. Helle Bereiche werden nicht mehr so schnell ausgebrannt, und dunkle Bildteile behalten Zeichnung – auch bei Gegenlicht. Startvorgang: Die Kamera ist in wenigen Sekunden einsatzbereit – kein Vergleich zum langsamen Boot der X3. Wechselobjektive: Die austauschbaren Objektivlinsen geben endlich ein Gefühl von Sicherheit, wenn man seine Kamera wirklich als Actioncam nutzen mag. Größe: Ja, die X5 ist deutlich größer und schwerer als die X3 – aber das ist angesichts der Technik mehr als verständlich. 🔧 Hardware-Features laut Hersteller (mit Kurzkommentar) Dual 1/1,28-Zoll Sensoren: Für extrem hohe Bildqualität, auch bei Low-Light. Ein riesiger Sprung im Vergleich zur X3, ein kleiner verglichen mit der X4. 8K 360° Videoauflösung (bei 30fps): Kinoqualität für alle, die professionell arbeiten wollen. 8K TimeShift: Atemberaubende Zeitraffer mit mehr Details als je zuvor. FlowState-Stabilisierung: Immer noch branchenführend – auch bei schnellen Bewegungen butterweich. Active HDR für 360-Video: Sorgt für natürlichere Farben und besseren Dynamikumfang ohne Nachbearbeitung. Wi-Fi 6: Extrem schnelle Datenübertragung – kein langes Warten beim Übertragen. Auswechselbare Objektive: Für echte Kreativfreiheit – endlich der größte Schwachpunkt der Kamera beseitigt. Großes Touchdisplay (2,5 Zoll): Deutlich besser ablesbar als bei der X3. Schnellerer Start und App-Integration: Vom Einschalten bis zur Aufnahme vergehen nur wenige Sekunden. IPX4 (spritzwassergeschützt): Nicht ganz so robust wie die X3 (IPX8), aber mit Schutzgehäuse trotzdem wasser-tauglich. USB-C & Akkusystem: Kompatibel mit Schnellladefunktion, Akkulaufzeit vergleichbar zur X3. ✅ Fazit: Nicht nur ein Upgrade – eine Revolution Die Insta360 X5 ist keine Evolution, sondern eine Revolution. Wer die X3 kennt, wird von der X5 begeistert sein – vor allem, wenn es auf Qualität, Speed und Flexibilität ankommt. Der größere Formfaktor wird durch die gewonnene Performance mehr als gerechtfertigt. Für Content Creator, Vlogger, Fotografen und Filmemacher ist sie aktuell die beste 360°-Kamera auf dem Markt.