Insta360 X4 vs X5: Which 8K 360° Camera Should You Choose?
If you’ve been shooting with the Insta360 X4, you already know it delivers sharp 8K footage, excellent stabilization, and that signature invisible selfie-stick magic. But when the X5 arrived, it stirred up excitement. I tested both models to see what really sets them apart. Here’s my full Insta360 X5 vs X4 comparison and 360 camera review.
Sensor & Image Quality
The Insta360 X4 features dual 1/2" sensors. It records crisp 8K video at 30fps, delivering solid image quality in good lighting. However, it can lose subtle details in darker or tricky lighting conditions.
The Insta360 X5, on the other hand, upgrades to dual 1/1.28" sensors. That means 144% more surface area capturing light and color. As a result, the X5 produces sharper photos, richer colors, and improved shadow detail. Whether you’re moving through landscapes or shooting portraits, the enhanced camera quality shines through.
One user on Reddit summed it up well saying, "you can certainly see an increase in sharpness and color… If you’re new to 360 cameras, the X5 is probably the better choice."
Low-Light & AI Performance
In low-light situations, the Insta360 X4 holds its own but starts to show noise and reduced clarity.
With the X5, things get better thanks to PureVideo mode, powered by a triple-AI chip. This tech cleans up night footage, reducing noise and producing more natural-looking clips. It also improves audio by muffling wind noise, making your outdoor recordings clearer.
TechRadar describes the X5 as "a highly refined successor with significant upgrades in image quality and durability," and The Verge praises its standout PureVideo low-light performance.
Battery & Ergonomics
Battery life is another area where the Insta360 X5 steps ahead. It packs a 2,400 mAh battery, slightly bigger than X4’s 2,290 mAh. This translates to about 87 minutes of recording in 8K, compared to 75 minutes on the X4.
With the 5.7K Endurance Mode, the X5 can record up to 185 minutes.
Charging is much faster too — the X5 can fully recharge in about 35 minutes versus the X4’s 55 minutes.
Durability & Design Upgrades
One compelling improvement with the X5 is its ruggedness. It offers an IP68 waterproof rating, usable up to 15 meters deep. The X4 is rated IPX8, good up to 10 meters. This makes the X5 more reliable for underwater adventures or harsh weather.
The X5 also features user-friendly replaceable lenses. If you accidentally damage a lens, you can swap it yourself without costly repairs.
Other upgrades include quick-release mounts and windscreen mic covers, boosting audio quality during outdoor shoots.
Features & Shooting Modes
Both models support 8K at 30fps and 5.7K at 60fps. They also offer smooth video stabilization that keeps your footage steady.
The Insta360 X5 adds new tools like InstaFrame, which lets you capture flat and 360° video simultaneously, saving time during social sharing. It also features I-Log color mode for better color grading, PureVideo AI for clearer images, and supports slow motion up to 4K at 120fps.
These advanced shooting modes give creators more options to tell their stories creatively.
Real-World Verdict
The Insta360 X5 is a significant upgrade over the X4. It offers richer colors, improved low-light capability, longer battery life, added ruggedness, and easier lens repairs. These features make it ideal for serious creators who want top performance.
If you already own the X4, the upgrade isn’t essential unless you frequently shoot in low light or need the X5’s durability and audio improvements. The X4 still holds up as a top performer.
For new buyers, the X5 represents the best 360 camera value on the market, especially compared to other action cams in this price range.
Summary Table
| Feature | X4 | X5 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Size | Dual 1/2″ | Dual 1/1.28″ (+144 %) |
| 8K Battery Life | ~75 min | ~87 min (+17 %) |
| Waterproof | 10 m (IPX8) | 15 m (IP68) |
| Lens Repair | No | Yes – DIY replaceable |
| Low Light Mode | Standard | PureVideo AI |
| InstaFrame & I‑Log | — | ✔ |
Final Thoughts
Choose the Insta360 X5 if you want superior low-light footage, enhanced durability, replaceable lenses, and handy features like InstaFrame. It’s built for those who demand a tough, versatile camera.
Stick with the Insta360 X4 if you already have it and don’t need all the extras. It still delivers professional quality 360° video and remains an excellent camera.
Whichever model you pick, you’re getting some of the best 8K 360 video technology available today.
