Insta360 X4 vs X3: 7 Key Improvements
By Naila Syifa
Updated April 2024
Released in April 2024, the Insta360 X4 is the latest and most advanced 360-degree camera from the company, offering several key improvements over its predecessor, the X3. What are these improvements and is it worth upgrading from the X3?
We'll take a closer look at the 7 key improvements of the Insta360 X4 and help you decide if it's worth the upgrade.
Key Takeaways
Insta360 X4's most significant upgrade from the X3 is the higher 8K video resolution compared to X3's 5.7K resolution. It also boasts a larger 2.5" screen with Corning Gorilla Glass compared to X3's 2.29" screen with standard tempered glass. Insta360 X4 also introduces a new Active Wind Reduction audio mode, some new features, and a longer battery life.
Insta360 X4
2024 Model
✓ 8K/30 fps 360 Footage
✓ 4K/60 fps Single-lens Footage
✓ Gesture Control
✓ 135 min Runtime
Insta360 X3
2023 Model
✓ 5.7K/30 fps 360 Footage
✓ 4K/30 fps Single-lens Footage
✓ FlowState Stabilization with Horizon Lock
✓ 81 min Runtime
#1 Larger screen and better durability
Insta360 X3
Insta360 X4 features a larger 2.5" touchscreen, which allows for easier preview and control compared to the X3's 2.29" screen. However, I deem this upgrade unnecessary as the 2.29" touchscreen of the Insta360 X3 is already sufficient for clear preview and operation, at least when compared to the older predecessor X2's circular 1.33" display which is quite small.
Moreoever, a larger screen makes the X4 less portable than the X3, weighing heavier at 203g and is less pocketable at 46 x 123.6 x 37.6 mm, compared to the Insta360 X3 at 180g weight and 46 x 114 x 33.1 mm dimensions. For travelers who prioritize portability, this aspect may be a downgrade rather than an improvement.
However, the Insta360 X4 is indeed superior to the X3 in terms of protection and durability. The screen is protected by the high-quality Corning Gorilla Glass, making it more scratch-resistant compared to the standard tempered glass on the X3.
Insta360 X4
In addition, the X4 comes included with a Standard Lens Guard accessory, which you can add to protect the camera lenses when taking the camera for risky outdoor activities. The Lens Guard is easy to remove and install by only twisting the base to remove or lock it in place.
Insta360 X3, on the other hand, offers a Sticky Lens Guard available for separate purchase. Compared to the Standard Lens Guard of the X4, the Sticky Lens Guard of the X3 is harder to reinstall. Once you remove it, it may lose its adhesive properties over time.
If you want an even better protection, the Insta360 X4 also offers a Premium Lens Guard available for separate purchase, offering greater protection and improved optical performance to preserve image quality.
#2 Upgraded video quality
Insta360 X4
Insta360 X4 joins the trend of 8K video resolution, a significant upgrade from the X3's 5.7K maximum video resolution.
A high-resolution camera is particularly important for 360 videos, as the pixels are dispersed across the entire 360° sphere, resulting in a lower perceived resolution when viewing the final reframed video. Thus, Insta360 X4's higher 8K resolution provides noticeably better video quality than the X3, resulting in a sharper and more detailed image.
Even if you don't want an 8K video, you'll still be able to take advantage of the higher frame rate that the X4 offers. For 5.7K resolution, the X3 can record up to 30fps, while the X4 can record up to 60fps. A higher frame rate results in smoother footage, especially for fast-moving scenes.
Insta360 X3
I personally think that the 30fps in X3 can feel a bit choppy even for daily content creation. Walking fast or panning the camera a bit quickly can make the footage look jittery with many noticeable motion blurs. I would need to reduce the resolution into 4K to get a smoother 60fps footage. However, with the X4's ability to record 5.7K at 60fps, I can now capture smooth footage without compromising on resolution.
Another improvement worth noting is related to slow-motion videos. With the X3, we can record 100fps slow-motion videos at 3K resolution, while the X4 now allows us to record 100fps slow-motion footage at 4K resolution.
#3 New noise reduction for photos
Insta360 X4
Taking a 360° photo can be tricky due to the wide field of view, but the Insta360 X4 introduces a new noise reduction algorithm built directly into the camera, helping to produce cleaner and more detailed photos.
So, despite the same 72MP photo resolution that both the X3 and X4 offer, the Insta360 X4 produces higher-quality photos with less noise and more detail.
#4 New audio mode
Insta360 X4
Both 360 action cameras have 4 microphones to capture clear voices, but the Insta360 X4 introduces a new audio mode for improved audio quality during windy conditions.
While the Insta360 X3 offers 3 audio modes (Wind Reduction, Stereo, and Direction Focus), the X4 offers 4 audio modes (Auto Wind Reduction, Active Wind Reduction, Stereo, and Direction Focus).
The new Active Wind Reduction mode is specifically designed to effectively reduce wind noise during intense action, providing stronger wind reduction capability compared to the X3's standard Wind Reduction mode.
As a comparison, for motorcycle riding or surfing, the Active Wind Reduction mode on the Insta360 X4 would likely provide better audio quality. However, in the case of casual vlogging in windy environments, the standard Wind Reduction mode on the Insta360 X3 should be sufficient.
#5 New smart features for easier content creation
Insta360 X4
Similar to the Insta360 Ace Pro, the Insta360 X4 now features Gesture Control, allowing you to control the camera with simple hand gestures, making it easier to operate the camera without physically touching it. This is particularly helpful for solo content creators who want to quickly capture themselves in action without the hassle of having to reach for the camera.
Some other new features include Timed Capture, which allows you to automatically capture photos or videos at set timings, and Cancel Recording, for quickly deleting accidental recordings without having to go through the footage later.
#6 New features for motorcyclists
Insta360 X4
If you're using an action camera for your motorcycle adventures, you'll be pleased to know that the Insta360 X4 introduces two new features tailored specifically for motorcyclists.
The first one is Auto Dash, which allows the X4 to automatically power on and start recording when you start your motorcycle, and power off when you turn off the engine. This is similar to a dashcam, especially when you use the Loop Recording mode, which continuously records and overwrites old footage, saving only the last-fixed duration of footage to save storage space without missing any important moments.
The second new feature is Bluetooth headset support, which allows the X4 to be paired with motorcycle Bluetooth headsets like Sena, Cardo, Airide, ASMAX, Lexinmoto, and Vimoto, so you can control the camera with your voice or directly add audio from the headset to your footage. Otherwise, AirPods and Samsung Galaxy Buds 2 would work as well for voice control.
#7 Longer battery life
Insta360 X4
A massive 2290mAh battery capacity is another welcome upgrade. At 5.7K/30 fps, the Insta360 X4 provides up to 135 minutes of continuous recording time on a single charge, which is 67% significantly longer than the 81 minutes offered by the Insta360 X3.
Charging time also has become faster, allowing you to charge to 80% in only 38 minutes and reach a full 100% in 55 minutes. The Insta360 X3, on the other hand, takes 1 hour and 30 minutes to fully charge, a considerably longer time compared to the X4.
Insta360 X4 vs X3
Final Thoughts
Insta360 X4
The Insta360 X4's improvements over the X3 seem quite significant, particularly in terms of video quality, battery life, and overall user experience.
The higher 8K resolution, smoother 60fps capture, and advanced noise reduction for photos are all notable upgrades that could greatly enhance the quality of your 360-degree content. Additionally, the new smart features like Gesture Control and Timed Capture, as well as the motorcycle-specific functions, make the X4 a more versatile and convenient option for a wide range of users and applications.
While the larger screen size and heavier weight may be a trade-off for some, the improved durability and lens protection could be worthwhile considerations.
Overall, the Insta360 X4 appears to be a substantial step up from the X3. If these improvements and new features are worth the investment for your intended use, then the Insta360 X4 could be a worthwhile upgrade from the X3.
If you like to read more about Action Camera, check out our other relevant guides here:
Insta360 X2 vs X4
Insta360 X4 vs Ace Pro
Insta360 X4 vs ONE RS 1-inch 360 Edition
Insta360 X4 vs GoPro Hero 12
Insta360 X4 vs GoPro Max
Insta360 X4 vs DJI Osmo Action 4
Insta360 X4 vs DJI Osmo Pocket 3
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