Insta360 X4 vs ONE RS 1-inch 360: Similarities & Differences
By Naila Syifa
Updated April 2024
Both the X4 and ONE RS 1-inch are 360 action cameras from Insta360, offering high-quality 360 video that is unique and reframeable. Despite their similarities, there are key differences between these two cameras you need to consider before making a purchase decision.
Key Takeaways
X4 has a higher video and photo resolution, but ONE RS 1-inch 360 camera has far better low-light performance. The features are also different. X4 offers gesture control and pre-recording mode that the ONE RS 1-inch lacks, but ONE RS 1-inch supports webcam and live streaming that the X4 does not have. In terms of battery life and durability, the X4 wins over the ONE RS 1-inch.
Insta360 X4
Versatile 360 Camera
✓ 8K/30 fps 360 Footage
✓ 4K/60 fps Single-lens Footage
✓ Voice Control & Gesture Control
✓ Waterproof to 10m
Insta360 ONE RS 1-inch 360 Edition
Swappable 360 Camera
✓ 6K/30 fps 360 Footage
✓ Dual 1-inch Sensors
✓ Live Streaming & Webcam
✓ Modular Design with ONE RS Core
#1 Price
Insta360 ONE RS 1-inch 360 Edition
Both models are high-end action cameras from Insta360, but the ONE RS 1-inch 360 Edition camera is excessively very expensive at a whopping US$800, while the X4 retails at a more reasonable price of US$500.
The $300 price gap is quite big, so it's important to consider if the additional features of the ONE RS 1-inch 360 are worth the extra cost for your specific needs and budget.
#2 Design, Display, & Durability
Insta360 X4
Similarities
Unlike most typical boxy-shaped action cameras in the market, both the X4 and ONE RS 1-inch share a similar vertically long, candy bar shape that makes them easy to grip and slip into your pocket. Even though the ONE RS 1-inch model is slightly larger and heavier than the X4, the difference is minimal and both are still the most similar to each other when compared to other Insta360 models like the Ace Pro, ONE RS Twin Edition, or GO 3.
Another common aspect that both cameras share is their cold-weather resistance, with the ability to withstand cold temperatures as low as -4°F (-20℃). This makes both cameras suitable for use during winter sports activities, such as skiing and snowboarding.
Differences
Insta360 ONE RS 1-inch 360 Edition
In terms of design, the main difference that sets the ONE RS 1-inch apart from the X4 is its modular design, which allows you to swap out the lens, core, and battery modules with another compatible ONE R or ONE RS model. Such an interchangeable design offers more flexibility compared to the X4's fixed, all-in-one build.
However, the Insta360 X4 has an advantage with its large 2.5" touchscreen, which allows for easy preview and control of the camera. The ONE RS 1-inch model, on the other hand, features a significantly smaller 1.3" display, which is a bit more challenging to navigate, control, and preview your shots on.
Insta360 X4
The X4 model is also more durable than the ONE RS 1-inch 360 model, featuring a scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass screen and an included Standard Lens Guard that you can easily install or remove to protect the lens from scratches and impact damage. The ONE RS 1-inch offers a Lens Cap available for purchase separately, but it protects the lens when not in use, rather than during use like the X4's Lens Guard.
When it comes to waterproof capabilities, the X4 is again winning. It is waterproof up to 33ft (10m) out of the box, but you can purchase the dive case accessory to extend its waterproof depth to an impressive 164ft (50m). Meanwhile, the ONE RS 1-inch 360 is only IPX3 water-resistant, meaning that it can withstand light splashes, but cannot be submerged in water without a protective case.
#3 Video Quality
Insta360 ONE RS 1-inch 360 Edition
Similarities
Both cameras capture 360 videos and photos, which then can be reframed in post-production to create standard flat videos from any angle you desire. A 360 video is more flexible and versatile compared to a traditional flat video, as it allows you to choose the best angles and shots after recording, while also producing multiple unique edits from a single take.
Both the Insta360 X4 and ONE RS 1-inch 360 Edition also feature FlowState Stabilization, which ensures a smooth and steady video even when shooting in challenging conditions. This is particularly important for ensuring video quality when shooting motion-intensive activities like sports or action scenes.
Differences
Insta360 X4
While the X4 supports Single-Lens mode to take traditional flat videos and photos without reframing, the ONE RS 1-inch 360 does not have this capability. This limitation can be overcome by swapping the 360 lens module with a compatible 4K Boost Lens module from the ONE RS system, but it requires an additional purchase.
Insta360 X4 also boasts a higher 8K/30 fps resolution for 360 videos, while the ONE RS 1-inch maxes out at 6K/30 fps resolution. Supported photo resolution is also higher on the X4 at 72MP, compared to the ONE RS 1-inch's 21MP. This means, the X4 can capture videos and photos with more detail and clarity.
Another aspect that gives the X4 an advantage over the ONE RS 1-inch is the HDR support, which helps to capture more dynamic range and vibrant colors. While the ONE RS 1-inch 360 camera only supports HDR for photos, the X4 supports HDR for photos and videos.
Insta360 ONE RS 1-inch 360 Edition
One thing that the ONE RS 1-inch does better is its dual 1-inch sensors, which are significantly larger than the X4's 1/2-inch sensors. A larger sensor size allows the ONE RS 1-inch to perform better in low-light conditions, making it suitable for capturing higher-quality footage in dimly lit environments or at night.
The ONE RS 1-inch even features a special PureShot photo mode, which is designed to capture high-quality, low-noise images in low-light conditions. The X4, on the other, struggles more in low-light situations for both videos and photos.
#4 Features
Insta360 X4 vs ONE RS 1-inch 360
Similarities
Both models, like most other Insta360 action cameras, offer a suite of AI-powered editing tools, including the Insta360 mobile app and Insta360 Studio desktop software. In both apps, you can reframe your 360 footage, adjust the orientation and aspect ratio, and export your edited videos with ease.
The mobile app has more varying AI-powered editing tools, including Shot Lab creative templates that allow you to create unique and engaging videos with just a few taps. Reframing is also easier in the mobile app, with features like Snap Wizard, which helps you quickly reframe videos with a simple swap or move of your phone.
Another common feature that both the X4 and ONE-RS 1-inch offer is Voice Control capability, allowing you to control the camera hands-free using voice commands.
Differences
Insta360 X4
Insta360 X4 also supports Gesture Control, which allows you to control the camera using simple hand gestures, a feature not available on the ONE RS 1-inch 360 model.
Pre-recording mode is also supported in the X4, allowing you to capture up to 15 seconds of footage before you press the record button, so you won't miss important but unexpected moments like catching a fish or scoring a goal in a sports match. This feature is unavailable in the ONE RS 1-inch.
Another unique feature that the X4 exclusively offers is Auto Dash, which allows you to use the camera like a dash cam. By plugging the X4 into a power source (like your motorcycle), the camera will automatically start recording when you ride and stop when you turn off the engine. This makes the X4 a perfect companion for motorcyclists. This feature is also not available in the ONE RS 1-inch.
However, ONE RS 1-inch 360 camera supports two features that the X4 lacks, which are Live Streaming and Webcam support. These features respectively allow you to live stream your 360 videos and use the camera as a webcam for video calls or virtual meetings.
#5 Battery Life
Insta360 X4
Similarities
Both action cameras are powered by a rechargeable battery that is removable, meaning that you can swap out the battery with a spare one to extend the shooting time. The spare batteries are sold separately.
Differences
Insta360 X4 has a larger battery capacity of 2290mAh, resulting in a longer runtime of 135 minutes at 5.7K/30 fps or 75 minutes at 8K/30 fps.
Insta360 ONE RS 1-inch, on the other hand, has a smaller 1350mAh battery, which provides a shorter runtime of approximately 62 minutes at 6K/30fps.
The time it takes to recharge the X4's battery is also significantly shorter, allowing you to charge to 80% in 38 minutes or 100% in 55 minutes. The battery of the ONE RS 1-inch, on the other hand, takes a long 90 minutes for a full charge.
Insta360 X4 vs Insta360 ONE RS 1-inch 360 Edition
Final Thoughts
Insta360 ONE RS 1-inch 360 Edition
Overall, the Insta360 X4 has greater versatility, making it a great action camera for a wide range of activities. Its waterproof capability makes it suitable for water sports, its Auto Dash feature makes it a great choice for motorcyclists, its pre-recording feature is a perfect mode to use when fishing, and its long-lasting battery life is ideal for extended outdoor adventures.
In terms of general video and photo quality, the Insta360 X4 also offers a better deal. It supports both 360 and single-lens mode, and offers a higher resolution for both videos and photos. However, when it comes to low-light shooting, the ONE RS 1-inch is the superior choice.
It seems that the only advantage that the ONE RS 1-inch 360 Edition offers is its superb low-light performance. The price is too high and it lacks many of the features that make the X4 a more versatile and smart action camera. However, if low-light performance is your top priority and budget is not an issue, the ONE RS 1-inch 360 Edition may be the better choice for you.
As an alternative, DJI Osmo Action 4 is also worth considering. It is one of the best action cameras for low-light shooting, supported by a large 1/1.3" CMOS sensor. The price is also more reasonable at US$400, but it is a traditional action camera that captures standard flat footage, not a 360 camera like the Insta360 X4 and ONE RS 1-inch 360 Edition.
If you like to read more about Action Camera, check out our other relevant guides here:
Insta360 X2 vs X4
Insta360 X4 vs DJI Osmo Action 4
Insta360 X4 vs GoPro Hero 12
Insta360 X4 vs X3
Insta360 X4 vs Insta360 Ace Pro
Insta360 X4 vs DJI Osmo Pocket 3
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