Insta360 Unveils the Insta360 X4
The Insta360 X4 is the company’s new flagship camera, and it can record 8K 360-degree video as well as 5.7K/60p and 4K/100p video. It promises to be simple to use with its invisible selfie stick effect and a single-lens 4K/60p action camera mode.
“8K will be transformative for creators as reframed video now holds its own alongside footage shot on regular cameras. But X4 isn’t just about image quality, it’s designed to be the most robust, easy-to-use 360° camera ever, no matter your experience. This idea was at the heart of a lot of the changes we made,” explains JK Liu, founder of Insta360.
The 8K video mode is the highest resolution Insta360 has ever offered in a 360-degree action camera. It promises clear and detailed 360-degree video, and the company says that 8K resolution offers extensive reframing options during post-processing, allowing users to crop video while preserving a sharp appearance.
While 8K film is limited to 30p frame rates, individuals who require higher speeds have plenty of options. 360-degree video at 60 frames per second maxes out at 5.7K resolution, up from 4K on the Insta360 X3. In terms of 4K resolution, it is now possible to shoot at up to 100 frames per second, allowing for four times the slow-motion 4K footage.
“Whatever the resolution or frame rate, 360-degree photography with the X4 provides unique features such as the Invisible Selfie Stick effect, which creates impossible third-person views that appear to have been taken with a drone or a personal camera crew! That also applies to photographs, with the X4 capable of 72MP 360-degree photos, which now have built-in AI denoising,” Insta360 notes.
A new 5nm CPU created specifically for AI applications drives AI denoising and other image features. The X4 features a Type 1/2 image sensor and a 6.7mm equivalent f/1.9 lens. The camera can also capture DNG (RAW) photographs, which is a useful function. The X4’s ISO goes from 100 to 6,400, and its maximum shutter speed is 1/8,000 second.
When 360-degree footage is not required, the X4 may function as a standard wide-angle action camera. The 170-degree ultra-wide lens supports up to 4K/60p video.
Given that the X4 is designed for action photography and outdoor shooting, it must be sturdy and durable. Removable lens guards are a vital addition for the X4. These are constructed of scratch-resistant glass and may be quickly removed or applied.
The X4 also has a larger 2.5-inch Gorilla Glass touchscreen and can go up to 33 feet underwater right out of the box. An optional Invisible Dive Case allows the camera to shoot underwater more than 160 feet below the surface, providing even greater waterproof performance.
The camera also has a new, larger 2,290 mAh battery that claims up to 67% more runtime than its predecessor. According to Insta360, the X4 can record 5.7K/30p video for 135 minutes.
Although many users will likely find the 4K/100p mode acceptable, the X4’s Bullet Time mode, similar to The Matrix, operates at 5.7K/120p or 3K/240p. There is also an 8K TimeShift hyperlapse mode and an 11K resolution Timelapse option. For individuals who do not wish to employ a physical neutral density filter, the X4 includes a digital Motion ND effect.
The Insta360 X4 is now available for $500.
