ERMAL ALIBALI

The 360-degree action camera world just witnessed two major releases that are reshaping the entire market: DJI’s entry with the Osmo 360 and Insta360’s flagship X5 (now available in both black and the stunning new Satin White Limited Edition). After extensive testing with these new arrivals alongside Insta360’s established lineup, I’m here to share my hands-on experience to help you choose the best 360 camera for your needs.

DJI Enters the 360° Market: First Impressions

I must admit that when DJI announced the Osmo 360 in late July 2025, my expectations were sky-high. As a regular user of DJI drones (like Mini 4 Pro), I expected the same level of technical excellence that distinguishes their products.

The DJI Osmo 360 arrives with impressive specifications: dual 4000×4000 pixel sensors, native 8K 360° video, 2.4 μm pixels, and a 1-inch sensor. On paper, it seems unbeatable.

Insta360 X5: The New Flagship That Changes Everything

Before testing either the DJI or continuing with my trusted X4, Insta360 surprised everyone in April 2025 with the X5 – and just recently, the stunning Satin White Limited Edition. This camera represents a massive leap forward in 360° technology:

Insta360 X5 Specifications:

• 1/1.28″ sensors (144% larger than X4’s 1/2″ sensors)
• 8K 360° video at 30fps with 11K supersampling
• Triple AI Chip system (one 5nm AI chip + two Pro Imaging chips)
• 185-minute battery life (40% improvement over X4)
• Waterproof to 49ft/15m (50% deeper than X4)
• Fast charging to 80% in just 20 minutes
• User-replaceable lens system with super-strong glass
• Built-in wind guard for clearer audio
• Weight: 200g (slightly lighter than X4)

The Satin White edition, launched just days ago, isn’t just a cosmetic change – it represents Insta360’s confidence in their flagship.

Why the X5 is a Game-Changer

Testing the X5 has been revelatory. The 144% larger sensors compared to X4 capture far more light, while the Triple AI Chip system with 140% more computing power works wonders to reduce noise for clean, uncompressed images in any conditions. The PureVideo Mode with AI noise reduction produces stunning low-light footage that rivals much larger cameras.

What impressed me most during field testing was the user-replaceable lens system. After accidentally scratching a lens during mountain biking, I was able to replace it in seconds – something impossible with sealed competitors.

Insta360 X4: Still the Reliable Workhorse

Before the X5’s arrival, I used the Insta360 X4 extensively, and it remains an excellent option for many users. Its specifications include:

• Video 8K (7680×3840) at 30fps
• Video 5.7K at 60fps for smooth slow motion
• 5nm AI Chip for advanced processing
• 2290mAh battery with 135 minutes of runtime
• Waterproof to 33ft (10m)
• Compact weight of just 203g

Field Testing: DJI Osmo 360 vs Insta360 X5 vs X4

Video Quality: The Battle of Titans

In my mountain and seaside testing, the DJI Osmo 360‘s video quality proved superior in certain aspects, especially in challenging lighting conditions. The 1-inch sensor makes a real difference:

• Wider dynamic range
• Superior noise handling in low-light
• Sharper details thanks to 2.4 μm pixels

However, the Insta360 X5 fought back impressively. The larger 1/1.28″ sensors (144% bigger than X4) combined with the Triple AI Chip system, produced remarkable results. The 11K-to-8K supersampling delivers exceptional detail retention, and the PureVideo Mode with AI noise reduction often matched or exceeded the DJI’s low-light performance.

The X4 doesn’t disappoint either, but the difference becomes apparent when comparing native files side-by-side.

Stabilization: Insta360’s Crown Jewel

Here’s where DJI faces its first major challenge. Insta360‘s FlowState stabilization remains unmatched across all their models. In mountain biking and skiing tests:

• X5: Incredibly smooth footage with enhanced algorithms
• X4: Excellent stabilization, the proven standard
• DJI Osmo 360: Good but still shows micro-vibrations in extreme conditions

Software Ecosystem: Insta360’s Unbeatable Advantage

This remains the most crucial differentiator. The Insta360 app is mature, intuitive, and feature-rich:

• AI-powered automatic editing
• Creative templates ready to use
• Social media optimized export
• Integrated community for content sharing
• Shot Lab with innovative effects

DJI’s app, while functional, lacks the same creative richness and years of refinement.

Battery Life and Durability: X5 Takes the Lead

The X5’s 185-minute battery life (40% improvement over X4’s 135 minutes) is impressive, especially with fast charging to 80% in 20 minutes. Combined with 49ft waterproofing (50% deeper than X4), it’s built for extended adventures.

DJI’s battery performance sits between the X4 and X5, but without the fast-charging convenience.

Insta360 X3 and ONE RS: Budget and Modular Alternatives

Insta360 X3: Best Value for Money

If budget is a concern, the X3 remains an excellent choice (I have this one in my travel gear):

• 5.7K video at 30fps
• 72MP 360° photos
• Same software ecosystem as X5/X4
• Price around $290

Insta360 ONE RS: The Versatile Option

The ONE RS with 360° module appeals to those wanting a modular system, but testing revealed it’s less performant than the X4 in terms of video quality and battery life.

Why I Choose Insta360 Over DJI (Despite DJI Being My First Choice for Drones)

This was genuinely difficult. I love DJI products – all my drones are DJI – but for 360° cameras, I must acknowledge Insta360’s superiority, particularly with the new X5.

Reasons for my choice:

1. Mature ecosystem: The Insta360 app is years ahead
2. Superior stabilization: Crucial for action footage
3. Innovative features: User-replaceable lenses, wind guard, fast charging
4. Extended battery life: 185 minutes vs shorter alternatives
5. Community and support: Insta360 has a vast, active community
6. Software evolution: Constant updates with new creative features

The X5 Satin White: More Than Just Aesthetics

The new Satin White edition isn’t just about looks – it represents Insta360’s confidence in pushing boundaries. The fact that they sent it to the edge of space for testing shows they’re not just creating cameras; they’re creating tools for extreme creativity.

During my testing, the white finish proved more scratch-resistant than expected, and the premium feel matches the internal upgrades perfectly.

Which Camera to Choose and Why

For Beginners and Budget-Conscious: Insta360 X3

If you’re just starting with 360° photography, the X3 is perfect. Accessible pricing, more than sufficient quality, and it lets you learn without excessive investment.

For Content Creators and Enthusiasts: Insta360 X4

Still my solid recommendation for most users. It offers everything needed for professional content: 8K, excellent stabilization, good battery life, and exceptional software.

For Professionals and Early Adopters: Insta360 X5

This is the new gold standard. The larger sensors, Triple AI Chip, extended battery life, user-replaceable lenses, and enhanced durability make it the ultimate 360° camera. The Satin White edition adds a premium aesthetic that stands out.

For Maximum Video Quality Purists: DJI Osmo 360

If raw video quality is your absolute priority and budget isn’t a concern, the DJI deserves consideration. But be prepared to sacrifice ease of use and portability.

For Modular Flexibility: Insta360 ONE RS

Only if you genuinely need modularity and also use traditional lenses.