Insta360 has launched its newest flagship action camera dubbed the X5, combining what the brand calls “groundbreaking image quality, rugged durability, and AI-powered ease of use, X5 sets a new benchmark for what 360° cameras can achieve”, courtesy of larger 1/1.28″ sensors and lightning-fast Triple AI Chip system that claim to deliver a dramatic leap in image quality across all resolutions, including stunning 8K30fps 360° video. Moreover, thanks to Insta360’s PureVideo technology, a new AI-powered low-light mode, X5 boasts crisp, cinematic footage in challenging lighting as well.
“Built for adventure, this is the toughest 360° camera ever. Its lenses are crafted from ultra-durable glass, while a first-of-its-kind replaceable lens system sets a new standard for the industry, allowing you to swap out damaged lenses on the go. Further hardware upgrades like a built-in wind guard, extended 3-hour battery life, and waterproofing to 49ft, make X5 the ultimate companion for active creators. From shooting to sharing, X5 makes 360° creation effortless. The all-new InstaFrame Mode simultaneously captures an auto-framed, ready-to-share flat video and a full 360° video to fine-tune later. The Insta360 app has undergone a transformation with more intuitive editing tools, and X5 pairs with the Insta360+ cloud service, where you can instantly share 360º clips, edit on the cloud, and more. X5 redefines 360° cameras by solving creators’ real challenges,” said JK Liu, Insta360’s Founder. “From replaceable lenses to AI-powered low-light shooting, we’ve built our dream camera—rugged enough for adventure, capable enough to produce high-quality footage, and intelligent enough to capture epic moments effortlessly.,” says Insta360.
Elsewhere, the X5 features 1/1.28″ sensors that are 144% larger compared to the outgoing X4, plus a Triple AI Chip system that’s made up of one 5nm AI Chip and two Pro Imaging Chips, which works wonders to reduce noise for clean, uncompressed images in any conditions.
Additionally, the X5’s low light capture gets an additional boost with a dedicated mode called PureVideo, an advanced AI noise reduction and dynamic range optimization that delivers clear, vibrant footage in low light, perfect for capturing your late-night explorations, bike rides, and more, while the Active HDR has been upgraded to 5.7K60fps for smooth, sharper shots, especially in high-contrast scenes. The X5 also provides an “invisible selfie stick effect”, enabling otherwise impossible third-person shots.
There’s also a new mode called InstaFrame, allowing the X5 to record two files. The first is an instantly shareable flat video, with no editing or reframing needed, giving users the choice of a fixed view that follows a constant direction or a selfie view that keeps them in the frame throughout. But, perhaps the best part is, that users can also record a second clip in full 360° so they’ll never miss an unexpected moment.
The Toughest 360° Camera Ever
When a lens cracks, most 360° cameras become paperweight, but with X5 users can easily replace damaged lenses on the go with the handy Replacement Lens Kit.
The X5 also benefits from the following features:
- Built-in wind guard and improved audio algorithm – a multi-layer steel mesh Wind Guard silences wind noise, while the boosted algorithm offers sharp, immersive sound.
- Longer lasting, faster-charging battery – A 2400mAh battery supports up to 185 minutes of recording in 5.7K, using the power-saving Endurance Mode. It can also fast charge from 0 to 80% in just 20 minutes, or the time it takes to finish a cup of coffee.
- IP68 waterproofing to 49ft (15m) – go even deeper without a dive housing.
- Magnetic mounting system – allows for quick accessory swaps so you’re always prepared for the next shot.
- FlowState Stabilization + 360° Horizon Lock – still industry-leading for the smoothest shots possible.
- Convenient ways to “hit record” – the new Twist to Shoot feature enables shooting just by twisting a selfie stick back and forth. Other options include Voice Control 2.0, Gesture Control, or pairing with a wireless remote.
Other standout features of the X5 is a one-tap Dewarp button that’s designed to remove fisheye distortion for natural-looking footage, as well as providing one-tap export with zero editing or reframing, along with the existing features such as Quick Edit and AI Edit for semi-automatic and automatic editing, Shot Lab with 40+ AI templates and a fully manual editing suite.
Insta360 also offers its 360Studio, desktop editing software for creating the highest quality export that’s completely free, along with a dedicated mobile app. Also, X5 is now compatible with Insta360+, a cloud service offering auto file backup, instant sharing of 360° footage, cloud editing and export, and more, making it easier than ever to share your adventures with the world.
The X5 camera can be purchased directly from Insta360, or Amazon for $549.99, along with an Essentials Bundle that comes with additional accessories for $659.99.
