Best 360 camera | Take advantage of the 360° video technology

10:08 AM

This article explains the world of 360° video, describes all the advantages and shows why 360-cameras prevail over classic action cameras in the future! 360-cameras have been rising in popularity in recent years, offering a unique and immersive way to capture moments and memories. With advancements in technology and increasing affordability, it's now easier than ever to get your hands on a high-quality 360 camera. In this article I present you the current best 360 cameras available on the market.

Best 360 cameras 2024

Here you can find an overview of the best 360 consumer cameras that are currently available on the market. I have tested all the 360 cameras listed here myself intensively on my Youtube channel "Gimbal Guru". I have been working with 360 cameras and the 360 video technology since 2020 and can therefore share my experience and assessment here.
The list is updated regularly, so you are always up to date!

Important:
These are affordable 360 cameras in the consumer sector. The 360 degree cameras presented here are suitable for hobby use. You can use them to record activities such as skiing, snowboarding, any kind of action shots, car driving, motorcycling, bicycling and much more. The cameras are also suitable for the creation of virtual tours, 360 real estate photos, etc.
Professional 360 cameras such as the Insta360 Pro 2* or the Insta360 Titan* are in a different price range and are therefore not covered here.

#1 Insta360 X3 | The best 360-camera 2024

The Insta360 X3* is without a doubt the best 360 camera currently available on the market. It is the successful successor of the Insta360 ONE X2*. Numerous improvements and enhancements have been made, making the Insta360 X3 a true 360-video and 360-photo beast!

Get the Insta360 X3 in the Gimbal Guru Deal: *Insta360 X3 special Deal*

It is a powerful, versatile waterproof 360-action-camera packed with features to capture your adventures in stunning detail.

With dual 1/2" 48MP sensors, it offers exceptional clarity and detail even in low light conditions, allowing you to capture vivid 5.7K 360 Active HDR video for an immersive experience.

The AI-powered Insta360 app provides easy reframing tools, allowing you to choose your favorite angle after the fact, unleashing your creativity and giving you endless creative possibilities.

The Insta360 X3 also offers a 4K Single-Lens mode, allowing you to shoot wide-angle footage just like a single-lens action cam. With 4K/30fps resolution or an extremely wide 170° field of view with 2.7K MaxView, your first-person view footage has never looked so good. The FlowState Stabilization and 360 Horizon Lock algorithms work together to deliver incredibly smooth videos, ensuring your footage is stable and professional-looking.

Of course, as with any 360 camera, the invisible selfie stick feature is awesome. The Selfie Stick disappears in your edit, enabling you to capture aerial angles and third-person perspectives that are only possible with a 360 action cam. This eliminates the need for a person who films or photographs you. Providing you with drone-like footage and unique perspectives.

The X3 is also rugged and waterproof, allowing you to take it down to 33ft (10m) underwater without any additional housing.

In addition to its video capabilities, the X3 also excels in photography. With upgraded 72-megapixel stills, you can capture 360 photos with exceptional detail. The camera also offers 4K 120fps or 3K 180fps Bullet Time, allowing you to create Matrix-level slow-motion videos for a cinematic effect. The Insta360 X3 also doubles as a dashcam with its loop recording feature, continuously recording video but only saving the final minutes according to your set interval, making it useful for capturing your road trips or daily commutes.

This video will give you an insight into the creative shots you can create with the Insta360 X3:

Overall, the Insta360 X3* is a feature-rich and powerful waterproof 360 action camera that offers exceptional video and photo capabilities. With its advanced sensors, AI-powered app, flowstate stabilization features, and unique invisible Selfie Stick feature, it provides a wide range of creative possibilities for capturing your adventures in stunning detail. Whether you're an action sports enthusiast, a content creator, or simply someone who loves capturing immersive footage, the Insta360 X3* is the best choice.

Get the Insta360 X3 in the Gimbal Guru Deal here:

*Insta360 X3 special Deal*

#2 Insta360 ONE RS 1" | The pro consumer 360-cam

The Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch 360 Edition* is made for the pro-consumer sector. It has a significantly larger sensor compared to the Insta360 X3* and thus provides better images in poor lighting conditions or indoors. The Insta360 ONE RS 1" Edition* is perfect for professional 360-photos. A good field of application are for example virtual real estate tours. The disadvantage is that it is significantly larger and heavier. Therefore, it is not necessarily the first choice for action Shots.

Get the Insta360 ONE RS 1" in the Gimbal Guru Deal:

*Insta360 ONE RS 1" special Deal*

The Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch 360 Edition is a cutting-edge 360-degree camera that offers great image quality and versatility. Co-engineered with Leica, a renowned brand known for its optical expertise, this camera features dual 1-inch CMOS sensors that deliver outstanding dynamic range and superb low light performance, making it ideal for capturing high-quality 360 footage even in challenging lighting conditions.

The Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch 360 Edition is able to apture stunning 6K 360-degree videos. With its invisible selfie stick and 360 reframing capability, you can easily capture impossible shots from unique perspectives. You can also share your immersive 360-degree videos or reframe them later.

In addition to video, the Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch 360 Edition also excels at capturing 360-degree photos. With its 21-megapixel stills and seamless stitching, you can capture the world around you in sharp definition. The camera also features AI-powered PureShot HDR mode, which provides higher dynamic range and better detail in your photos.

The Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch 360 Edition is equipped with FlowState Stabilization, a 6-axis stabilization system that ensures incredibly smooth videos, even when you're on the move. The camera also features 360 Horizon Lock, which keeps the horizon level in all your shots, without the need for a gimbal, providing professional-looking footage without any distortion.

It is designed to be upgradeable, with an interchangeable lens system that allows you to switch lenses for different shooting situations. It also features an IPX3 water-resistant rating, so you don't have to worry about using it in challenging weather conditions.

With its advanced features, exceptional image quality, and versatility, the Insta360 ONE RS 1-Inch 360 Edition* is the ultimate creative tool for capturing stunning 360-degree videos and photos. Whether you're a professional content creator or a passionate hobbyist, this camera offers a wide range of capabilities to help you capture and share your unique perspectives anytime, anywhere.

Get the Insta360 ONE RS 1" 360 Edition in the Gimbal Guru Deal here:

*Insta360 ONE RS 1" special Deal*

#3 Insta360 ONE X2 | Price/Performance Winner

The Insta360 ONE X2* is the predecessor of the Insta360 X3*. The camera is on par with the Insta360 X3 in most aspects. The Insta360 ONE X2 has all the important features that make a 360 camera unique. If you are looking for an affordable 360 camera, the Insta360 ONE X2 is the best choice. This 360° camera is the perfect entry-level model and still a top product.

Get the Insta360 ONE X2 here:

*Insta360 ONE X2 special Deal*

The Insta360 ONE X2 is a 360-action-camera that lets you capture immersive 360-degree footage with ease. With its 5.7K 360-degree capture, you can shoot in all directions and then choose your favorite angle later, giving you unparalleled creative freedom. Alternatively, you can use the Steady Cam mode for ultra-stable wide-angle footage that's perfect for action-packed adventures.

The Insta360 ONE X2 also comes with the FlowState Stabilization, which keep your shots steady, eliminating the need for a gimbal. This means you can capture smooth, professional-looking footage even in challenging environments.

Also the invisible Selfie Stick feature allows you to capture unique drone-like angles and third-person perspectives with a simple flick of the wrist. The ONE X2 is waterproof up to 10 meters (33ft) with its IPX8 rating, making it perfect for use in rainstorms, surfing, and other water-based activities without the need for an additional case.

The Insta360 App offers a range of powerful editing tools, including AI Editing that can automatically edit your footage for you. The Insta360 ONE X2 also offers live streaming and webcam modes, allowing you to share your 360-degree adventures with friends and followers on Facebook, YouTube, or other platforms. The camera features four built-in microphones that can locate and hone in on your voice, thanks to a smart wind-reduction algorithm, ensuring you get clear audio even in challenging conditions. It features an ultra-bright touchscreen that allows you to preview your shots in 360 degrees, making it easy to frame your shots and ensure you capture the perfect moment.

Overall, the Insta360 ONE X2 is a powerful 360-camera that offers innovative features for capturing immersive 360-degree footage and the best affordable 360-cam option on the market.

Get the Insta360 ONE X2 Gimbal Guru Deal here:

*Insta360 ONE X2 special Deal*

Full 360-camera ranking

Here you can find a full ranking of the best 360-cams:

#	Name	Video/fps	Photo	Review
#	Name	Video/fps	Photo	Review
1	Insta360 X3	5.7K @ 30fps	11968 x 5984	Insta360 X3 Review
2	Insta360 ONE RS 1"	6K @ 25fps	6528 x 3264	Insta360 ONE RS 1" Review
3	Insta360 ONE X2	5.7K @ 30fps	6080 x 3040	Insta360 ONE X2 Review
4	Insta360 ONE RS	5.7K @ 30fps	6080 x 3040	Insta360 ONE RS Review
5	Insta360 ONE R	5.7K @ 30fps	6080 x 3040	Insta360 ONE R Review
6	GoPro MAX	5.6K @ 30fps	5760 x 2880	GoPro MAX Review
7	Insta360 ONE X	5.7K @ 30fps	6080 x 3040	Insta360 ONE X Review

To get deeper into the topic of 360-video / 360-photo and 360-cameras, here is some additional important info. Here you will also find important tips for beginners but also experienced 360-camera users will learn something here.

What is a 360 camera?

A 360 camera is a specialized camera that captures a full 360-degree view of its surroundings. Unlike traditional cameras, which capture a flat, two-dimensional image, 360 cameras capture a spherical image that allows the viewer to look in any direction. This makes them ideal for capturing immersive videos and photos that make you feel like you're actually there. This is also the biggest difference to a normal action camera. A 360-camera records the entire environment, even when you only use a specific selected area later.

How do 360 cameras work?

360 cameras use multiple lenses (most consumer 360-cams only have 2 lenses) to capture a full view of their surroundings. The lenses are typically arranged in a circular or spherical pattern, or are arranged opposite each other. Each lens is capturing a portion of the enviroment. The images captured by each lens are then "stitched" together to create a seamless, spherical image. This stitched footage will be used as RAW 360 video for further processing steps. This can then be used, for example, to reframe the video.

Advantages of using a 360 camera

There are several advantages to using a 360 camera, including:

Immersive viewing experience:
360 cameras allow viewers to look in any direction, creating an immersive experience that traditional cameras simply can't match.
Easy to use:
Many 360 cameras are designed to be user-friendly, with simple controls and intuitive software that makes it easy to capture and share 360 content.
Unique perspective:
360 cameras offer a unique perspective that can't be achieved with traditional cameras. This makes them ideal for capturing sports, travel, and other activities where you want to show off your surroundings.
Versatile:
360 cameras can be used in a wide range of situations, from action sports to weddings to virtual tours of real estate.

But in my opinion there are 3 OUTSTANDING advantages of 360-cameras that set them apart from other action cameras. The real power of 360 cameras are the following:

REFRAMING
Probably by far the most powerful feature is the possibility to film a 360 Video and reframe it later in post-production. This gives you the freedom to choose the movement afterwards. You will never miss a Shot after you pressed the record button. In post-production you can create creative fast and actionlike Shots or slow and gentle smooth camera movements. This gives you the full creative scope.
STABILIZATION
The second big advantage is the electronic Image Stabilization. You can turn the camera in any direction, the picture will always be perfectly stabilized. Because the camera creates a 360-degree spherical image, it can always be shifted without cropping. A normal action camera captures only a limited area, which means that the image has to be cropped for stabilization.
INVISIBLE SELFIE STICK
The third advantage is the invisible Selfie Stick. A 360 degree camera usually combines several videos into one overall video. In this process the Selfie Stick is removed and it looks like the camera is flying. This feature is perfect for Selfies & Action Shots!

These are the three real reasons why I believe that 360 cameras will become more and more popular in the future! This video shows you these 3 advantages illustrated:

How to edit 360-videos?

When editing 360-videos, first the following needs to be clarified: Which possibilities are there to edit 360 degree videos? Do you want to create a VR video? Should the 360-video be reframed to a "flat" standard video? The most important thing here is the difference between VR 360-video editing and 360-video reframing.

360-VR Video vs 360-Video Reframing

There is a substantial difference between 360-video reframing and 360-VR Video. Both options require a 360°-video (stitched) as raw material, which is recorded with a 360-camera.

Reframing

We talk about reframing, when the 360 video footage is converted (reframed) into a regular standard video. Reframing means, the perspective is given to the viewer and the spectator does not have the possibility, to move himself in the immersive room. Here is an example of a reframed 360-video!

One thing must be clear to you. If you have recorded a 360-video with your 360-cam, there are infinite possibilities to reframe the video in post- production. Therefore, each video you create is unique. Even if you have the same raw material, you can create different versions with it.

Here is a video which shows you what is meant by this:

360 VR Video

360-VR video editing, refers to editing the entire 360° video footage. The viewer is free to move around in the immersive 360 room. He can choose the perspective himself and focus on certain areas. Here is an example of a 360 VR video!

For example, here is a tutorial that shows you how to upload a 360 VR video to youtube:

Both options (360-VR Video & 360-Video reframing) require different tools and programs. Some programs also offer the possibility to cover both. In this article you will find a detailed summary of which programs are best suited for this purpose: 360-VIDEO EDITING SOFTWARE

360-camera & 360-video tutorials

Anyone considering to buy a 360° camera will have to take a closer look at the topic 360-videos. On my Youtube Channel "Gimbal Guru", I have been working intensively with the 360 video technology since 2020. I have already published numerous tutorials that introduce you to the world of 360-degree cameras & 360-videos. Here is an overview of the most important tutorials for beginners and advanced:

360-timelapse tutorial: How to create a reframed 360-timelapse
POV 360-video tutorial: How to create POV Shots with your 360-camera
360-camera FPV tutorial: Create dynamic FPV Shots with your 360-camera
Insta360 Studio tutorial: How to reframe in Insta360 Studio
360-Hyperlapse tutorial: How to create a hyperlapse with your 360-camera
360-Photo tutorial: How to create 360-photos with your 360-camera
360-Video Youtube tutorial: How to upload a 360-video with Insta360 Studio to Youtube
360-camera basic tutorial: How to get the best out of your 360-camera | preparation & settings
Insta360 Studio full tutorial: Full Insta360 Studio v4 tutorial
360-VR Video editing tutorial: How to create a 360° VR Metaverse Animations
Edit & Reframe 360-videos: How to edit & reframe 360-videos in Premiere Pro
Time freeze tutorial: 360° time freeze effect

Possibilities of 360 videos

The creative possibilities of 360° cameras are enormous. You can create footage that will amaze your audience. Here is a video overview of creative uses of your 360-degree camera.

Here is a list of videos with creative 360° camera tricks and ideas:

What are the cons of a 360-camera

You have to be that honest. Where there are many advantages, there are also disadvantages. We should always keep in mind that compromises must be accepted. Here are some of the disadvantages that a 360 camera brings with it:

DATA SIZE
360 cameras produce very large amounts of data, because the entire environment is filmed. A few seconds or minutes can generate several gigabytes of data. Therefore, always make sure that your memory card is large enough.
POSTPROCESSING IS A MUST
One of the most important thing is, that the material must be edited afterwards, because the raw material is not really usable. The user has to deal with it more, which is already too complex for many people. All users who do not enjoy editing videos and want to create ready-out-of-the-cam recordings without investing a lot in post-processing should choose a standard actioncamera.
RESOLUTION & IMAGE QUALITY
360-cameras are recording the entire environment, but most of the time only a defined (reframend) area is selected later. Here a classic action camera has a big advantage in terms of image quality. While a 360-cam films the entire 360° environment for example with 6K and only a small section is used, the resolution is reduced. This is called reframing.

For example, if only a third is shown, the 6K resolution is reduced by one-third and is then only 2K, which corresponds to a FULL HD resolution. A standard cameras uses the entire resolution for the displayed area.

Check out this video, there it is explained in detail:

How to use a 360 camera

Using a 360 camera is fairly straightforward, but there are a few things to keep in mind.

I have created a two-part tutorial that explains exactly how to use your 360 camera and how to get the best results.

The first part is about:

How to prepare your camera
and what the best 360-camera video settings are

The second part is about:

How to shoot to get the best-looking footage
and how to edit & reframe your 360-videos to get cinematic sequences

Additionally I can recommend you to subscribe to my youtube channel "Gimbal Guru". There I always publish interesting 360-video tutorials and 360-camera tips and tricks!

Conclusion

Overall, 360 cameras offer a unique and immersive way to capture and share moments and memories. Whether you're a professional videographer or just looking to capture some fun footage of your next adventure, a 360 camera is definitely worth considering. With increasing affordability and user-friendly designs, there's never been a better time to get started with 360 content creation.

Get your 360 camera now and you won't regret it!

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