DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vs Insta360 X3: Strengths and Weaknesses
By Naila Syifa
Updated December 2023
Both the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and the Insta360 X3 are excellent choices for anyone looking for a high-quality action camera that can capture stunning footage. They each have their unique strengths and weaknesses, so the choice between them will ultimately depend on your specific needs and preferences. Let's take a closer look at each one to help you make an informed decision!
Key Takeaways
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 delivers better video quality in low-light conditions due to its large 1" sensor compared to Insta360 X3's smaller 1/2" sensor. However, Insta360 X3 provides room for more creativity with features like 360-degree capture, Invisible Selfie Stick, and more.
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
Exceptional Gimbal Camera
✓ 4K Video, 9.4 MP Photo
✓ 1” CMOS Sensor
✓ 3-Axis Stabilization
✓ Timecode Sync
Insta360 X3
360 Camera
✓ 5.7K + 72 MP 360 Footage
✓ 4K Single-lens Footage
✓ FlowState Stabilization with Horizon Lock
✓ Invisible Selfie Stick
#1 Price
Insta360 X3
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is more expensive at US$519, while the Insta360 X3 is priced at US$449.99, making it more affordable. However, these two cameras are still relatively expensive compared to other action cameras on the market. So, make sure you have considered all the important aspects to ensure that your investment will be worth it.
#2 Design
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
Unlike a typical boxy-shaped action camera, both the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and the Insta360 X3 have a compact, handheld design that makes them highly portable and easy to use. They also weigh quite similarly around 179-180 g, which means that they are both lightweight and easy to carry around.
Both cameras feature a touchscreen display for you to preview your shots and control the camera settings. One difference is that the Insta360 X3 has a larger screen of 2.29", while the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has a slightly smaller screen of 2". However, the Pocket 3's screen is rotatable, so you can quickly switch between horizontal and vertical orientation for capturing different types of footage.
Another difference concerns the sturdiness or durability of the cameras. Insta360 X3 is better in this aspect, as it is waterproof to 10m without the need for an external case, and can also withstand extreme temperatures ranging from -20° to 40°C. DJI Osmo Pocket 3, on the other hand, is not waterproof and is unable to withstand cold temperatures below 0°C.
#3 Video Quality
Insta360 X3
When it comes to video quality, both the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and the Insta360 X3 offer impressive 4K resolution. They also support a maximum frame rate of 120 fps for slow-motion videos, but the Pocket 3 has a higher frame rate of 60 fps for shooting normal videos, while the Insta360 X3 offers a lower frame rate of 30 fps for normal videos.
However, one major difference between the two is that the Insta360 X3 has a wider field of view of 360 degrees, allowing you to take 360 footage that captures all the surroundings to be edited and reframed later. The maximum resolution for 360 videos is even higher at 5.7K/30 fps, but keep in mind that this resolution is spread across the entire 360-degree field of view, so the end resulting footage may not be as sharp as regular 4K footage.
Another striking difference between the two cameras is that the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 offers an ultra-large 1" CMOS sensor, while the Insta360 X3 is equipped with a smaller 1/2" sensor. A bigger sensor can produce better image quality in low-light conditions, so the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has an edge in this aspect.
#4 Features
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
To deliver smooth and steady footage, both the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and the Insta360 X3 have built-in stabilization features that work effectively. One difference is that the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has a 3-axis mechanical gimbal stabilization system, allowing the camera to tilt, pan, and roll to compensate for the camera shake. ActiveTrack 6.0 also automatically follows moving subjects, making it easier to capture action shots.
Insta360 X3 doesn't have mechanical gimbal stabilization, but instead uses FlowState Stabilization technology, which uses advanced algorithms to stabilize footage without the need for a gimbal. It even provides a 360° Horizon Lock feature, which keeps the horizon level even when the camera is rotated upside down, such as when riding a roller coaster or flipping on your paraglider.
Insta360 X3
Insta360 X3 also has another added advantage with its voice control feature, which allows for hands-free operation when you're in the middle of the action, such as snowboarding, surfing, or skydiving. The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 doesn't have that feature, but it offers a built-in Timecode feature that is useful for synchronizing footage from multiple cameras during post-production.
Despite these differences, both cameras also share some features in common, such as webcam support, live streaming, AI-powered editing tools, and more.
#5 Battery Life
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has a smaller battery capacity of 1300 mAh, but it has a longer runtime of 116 minutes for continuous shooting of 4K/60 fps footage and up to 166 minutes for 1080p/24 fps footage. It also supports fast charging, allowing you to achieve 80% charge in just 16 minutes.
On the other hand, the Insta360 X3 has a larger battery capacity of 1800 mAh but a shorter runtime of 81 minutes for continuous shooting of 5.7K/30 fps footage. It also takes longer to charge, requiring approximately 90 minutes to reach a full charge.
#6 Accessories
Insta360 X3
A wide range of accessories are available for both the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and the Insta360 X3, including mounts, tripods, and cases. However, one distinctive accessory is available for the Insta360 X3: the Invisible Selfie Stick. This accessory is unique because it can be edited out of the footage, making it look like you're filming without any support. This is useful in creating third-person shots on your own or creating drone-like footage without actually using a drone.
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vs Insta360 X3
Final Thoughts
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has excellent low-light video quality with mechanical stabilization and long-lasting battery life, but it is not waterproof, unable to withstand cold temperatures, and can't shoot 360-degree videos.
Insta360 X3 allows you to capture stunning 360-degree videos with creativity-inspiring features like the Invisible Selfie Stick, 360° Horizon Lock, and more. It can also be used underwater and in cold temperatures, but it has a relatively short battery life and may not be very good at capturing low-light footage.
Ultimately, the choice between the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and the Insta360 X3 will depend on your specific needs and preferences. DJI Osmo Pocket 3 may be more suitable for shooting indoors and in low-light environments, while the Insta360 X3 is more versatile for capturing different adventures and outdoor activities.
If you like to read more about Action Camera, check out our other relevant guides here:
Insta360 Ace vs Ace Pro
Insta360 Ace Pro vs GoPro Hero 12
Insta360 Ace Pro vs DJI Action 4
Insta360 Ace Pro vs Insta360 X3
Insta360 Ace Pro vs DJI Osmo Pocket 3
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vs Pocket 2
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vs GoPro Hero 12
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vs Action 4
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vs Insta360 GO 3
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