Insta360 GO 3S vs X4: Differences & Similarities
By Naila Syifa
Updated June 2024
Insta360 GO 3S and Insta360 X4 are two popular action cameras released in 2024 by Insta360, one of the leading manufacturers of action cameras in the world.
Being the latest models that the company offers, these two cameras boast cutting-edge features and impressive performance, but they have significant differences that make both models suitable for different user segments and use cases.
We'll explore in detail the similarities and differences of both the Insta360 GO 3S and Insta360 X4 to help you make an informed decision on which one best suits your needs and preferences.
Key Takeaways
Both GO 3S and X4 record 4K flat videos, but the X4 also records 8K 360 videos for reframeable, immersive footage. GO 3S relies only on its internal microphones, while the X4 supports external microphones. X4 also has a much longer battery life than the GO 3S, but the GO 3S has a great advantage with its tiny size and flexible mounting options.
Insta360 GO 3S
Tiny Mighty 4K Cam
✓ 4K Video + 12 MP Photo
✓ Compact, Lightweight, Magnetic
✓ FreeFrame & Interval Video Mode
✓ Action Pod
Insta360 X4
360 Action Camera
✓ 8K/30 fps 360 Footage
✓ 4K/60 fps Single-lens Footage
✓ Invisible Selfie Stick
✓ AI Reframing & Editing
#1 Price
Insta360 X4
Insta360 X4 is the flagship camera of Insta360 in 2024, so it comes with a premium price tag. At $499.99, it is more expensive than most action cameras in the market, including the well-known GoPro Hero 12 and DJI Osmo Action 4.
Insta360 GO 3S is more affordable. The 64GB edition costs $399.99, while the 128GB edition is priced at $429.99. If you're on a tighter budget, the GO 3S also comes in a standalone version that includes only the camera unit but not the Action Pod, retailing at $239.99 for the 64GB edition and $269.99 for the 128GB edition.
#2 Design & Durability
Insta360 GO 3S
Differences
In appearance, both action cameras are distinctly different. The GO 3S stands out with its tiny size and lightweight design, making it highly portable and discreet. Insta360 X4 in itself is actually quite compact and portable, but when compared to the GO 3S, it is significantly bulkier and heavier.
Both models are great to use in mobile situations, but the miniature form factor of the GO 3S gives it an advantage in terms of flexibility when mounting. With the included mounting accessories (magnet pendant, easy clip, and pivot stand), you can capture unique perspectives like from your pet's collar. The GO 3S also has a magnetic design that makes it attach easily to metal surfaces.
Insta360 X4
Insta360 X4, on the other hand, is typically used in grip with the separately sold Invisible Selfie Stick. It also supports mounting on tripods, helmets, or other location, but the required accessories don't come included in the box and must be purchased separately.
While the Insta360 X4 is a standalone unit with a large 2.5" touchscreen integrated into the device, the GO 3S consists of the camera unit and the Action Pod. The Action Pod serves as an additional battery pack and features a 2.2" flip touchscreen for remote preview and control.
Similarities
Insta360 GO 3S
Insta360 GO 3S and Insta360 X4 are highly durable and can withstand extreme conditions, thanks to their rugged construction and waterproof design.
Both cameras can handle temperatures ranging from -20°C to 40°C and are waterproof to 10m. Note that the waterproofing capability for the GO 3S only applies to the camera unit, while the Action Pod is only splashproof.
Both cameras also come with a lens guard accessory included, which can be installed to protect the lens from scratches and impacts.
#3 Video & Photo
Insta360 X4
Differences
Insta360 X4 is a 360 action camera, meaning that it can capture 360-degree spherical videos and photos with its dual lenses. The camera delivers a maximum resolution of 8K/30 fps and 72MP for 360 videos and photos, but it also offers a regular Single-Lens Mode at a maximum 4K/60 fps resolution.
Insta360 GO 3S, on the other hand, is a standard action camera that captures traditional flat videos and photos. It has a maximum resolution of 4K/30 fps for videos and 12 MP for photos.
360 field-of-view that the Insta360 X4 offers means you can capture everything in your surroundings. GO 3S introduces a new MegaView FOV that offers wider coverage compared to the previous Insta360 GO 3 model, but it still cannot match the immersive 360-degree capture of the X4.
In addition, 360 videos can be reframed, meaning that you can capture everything first now and later choose the perspective, angle, and aspect ratio that you want for the final footage.
Insta360 X4
Insta360 GO 3S tries to imitate this capability with its FreeFrame Video mode, which records in ultra-wide angle and allows you to choose the aspect ratio afterward. This offers some degree of flexibility, especially by allowing you to use a single footage to suit different social platforms, but it's still not as versatile as the true 360-degree capture.
However, the GO 3S offers a unique mode called the Interval Video Mode, which automatically records footage at set intervals and lengths and then combines them into a single video with the Auto Edit feature. This mode is perfect for capturing the highlights of your day, such as when having a road trip or a day out exploring a new city.
Similarities
FlowState Stabilization
Insta360 GO 3S and X4 deliver shake-free, stabilized footage thanks to their advanced image stabilization technology, FlowState Stabilization and Horizon Lock.
Both cameras also offer many video modes that allow for creative shooting, such as Timelapse, TimeShift, Pre-Recording, and Loop Recording. Bullet Time in the X4 model is similar to the Slow Motion mode in the GO 3S, both allowing you to capture dramatic slow-motion footage.
#4 Audio
Insta360 GO 3S
Differences
Insta360 X4, featuring 4 microphones, captures better surrounding audio than the 2 microphones of the GO 3S. The X4 is also better at suppressing wind noise, thanks to its special Active Wind Reduction mode that intelligently filters out wind noise for clearer audio during intense action.
Insta360 X4 has another advantage with external microphone connectivity, allowing you to use Bluetooth or wired connection to capture high-quality audio from an external mic, including AirPods and Samsung Galaxy Buds. The camera is even compatible with motorcycle Bluetooth headsets, including various brands from SENA to Cardo, Airide, Vimoto, and more.
Similarities
Both the GO 3S and X4 offer Stereo mode and Direction Focus. Stereo audio is best for capturing immersive sound, where left and right channels are easy to distinguish. Meanwhile, Direction Focus is more suitable for scenes with multiple audio sources, as it intelligently amplifies the sound from a specific direction.
#5 Features
Insta360 X4
Differences
For motorcycle riders, the Insta360 X4 is a great option. It comes with an Auto Dash feature specifically tailored to motorcycle riding, automatically starting and stopping recording based on your ride. The Auto Dash feature turns the X4 into a dashcam, ensuring you never miss capturing important moments on the road.
Meanwhile, the Insta360 GO 3S has a distinctive compatibility with Apple Find My. This allows you to easily locate your camera if you misplace it.
Insta360 GO 3S
Both cameras support the Insta360 app for remote control, live preview, and AI-powered editing tools, but the app offers much more creative AI editing features for the X4 due to the camera's 360-degree capture capabilities. For example, the app can automatically track subjects in 360 videos and there are many Shot Lab templates to make creative effects like sky swap, dolly zoom, and more.
Similarities
Both the GO 3S and X4 support Voice Control and Gesture Control. Voice Control allows you to control the camera hands-free using voice commands, while Gesture Control enables you to start and stop recording or take photos with simple hand gestures. These are incredibly useful when the camera is placed out of reach.
#6 Battery Life
Insta360 X4
In terms of battery life, the X4 wins. With a 2290mAh battery capacity, the Insta360 X4 can last for up to 135 minutes at 5.7K/30 fps recording. Charging is also quick at 55 minutes, and you can reach 80% in just 38 minutes.
With a 310mAh battery in the camera unit and a 1270mAh battery in the Action Pod, the Insta360 GO 3S can last for up to 38 minutes with the camera unit or up to 140 minutes when used with the Action Pod. Charging the Action Pod takes 65 minutes to complete or 47 minutes to reach 80%.
The GO 3S's 140-minute runtime may seem longer than the X4's 135-minute runtime, but note that the X4 achieves this at a higher 5.7K resolution while the GO 3S reaches this runtime at only 1080p/30 fps resolution. When recording in 1080p, the X4 will last much longer than the GO 3S.
Insta360 GO 3S vs X4
Final Thoughts
Insta360 GO 3S
The Insta360 GO 3S and X4 both offer compelling features for action camera enthusiasts, but they cater to different needs and budgets.
The GO 3S is the ultimate pocket-sized action cam, ideal for those who prioritize portability and quick, easy capture. Its lower price makes it more accessible, while its mounting flexibility allows for capturing unique perspectives with ease. The camera quality is great at 4K, but no support for external microphones makes the GO 3S more suitable for casual use rather than professional-level content creation.
On the other hand, the X4 is a powerhouse for those who demand the highest video quality and long-lasting battery. Its ability to capture 360 videos unlocks endless creative possibilities for immersive storytelling, and its motorcycle-specific features make it a top choice for riders. Insta360 X4 is more suitable for professional content creators and people who are willing to invest more for the best image quality and creative flexibility.
If you’d like to read more about Action Camera, check out our other relevant guides here:
Insta360 GO 3S vs GO 3
Insta360 GO 3S vs GO 2
Insta360 GO 3S vs X3
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