Insta360 X5 vs X4 Comparison
The Insta360 X5 vs X4 comparison highlights how far 360-degree action cameras have evolved in just one generation. While both models share a similar form factor and core shooting features like 8K video and advanced stabilization, the X5 pushes the boundaries with larger sensors, better low-light performance, improved usability, and longer endurance.
Whether you're a content creator, adventurer, or tech enthusiast, understanding the key differences between these two models will help you decide which camera best fits your needs and shooting style.
| Feature | Insta360 X5 | Insta360 X4 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Size | 1/2.8-inch (144%) | 1/2-inch (100%) |
| 360° Video | 8K@30fps, 5.7K@60fps HDR | 8K@30fps, 5.7K@60fps |
| PureVideo Low Light | Yes | No |
| Battery Life | 180 mins | 135 mins |
| Replaceable Lenses | Yes | No |
| Lens Guards | Yes | Yes |
| Waterproof Rating | 49ft / 15m | 33ft / 10m |
| Invisible Selfie Stick | Yes | Yes |
| Image Stabilization | Yes | Yes |
| Fast Charging | Yes | No |
| Twist-to-shoot | Yes | No |
| Stills Resolution | 72MP | 72MP |
Insta360 X5 vs X4 Sensor Size
- X5: Features twin 1/1.28-inch sensors (larger than X4's), which drastically improve image quality, low-light performance, and dynamic range.
- X4: Uses smaller 1/2-inch sensors, limiting its light sensitivity and performance in challenging lighting conditions.
Image Processing:
- X5: Equipped with triple processors, enabling faster image processing and new features like PureVideo, which is aimed at enhanced low-light video quality.
- X4: Powered by dual processors, sufficient for 8K 360° video but less capable of handling advanced AI or computational imaging.
Aperture:
X5: Has an f/2.0 aperture, a minor step down from the f/1.9 in the X4, but the larger sensor compensates for this with better light capture.
Insta360 X5 vs X4 Design
The Insta360 X5 and Insta360 X4 are designed with a similar stick-style form factor, making them perfect for use with selfie sticks. Despite their minimal size difference, with the X5 measuring 46 × 124.5 × 38.2mm and the X4 at 46 × 123.6 × 37.6mm, the X5 is slightly lighter, although the X4 is only 3g heavier at 203g.
In terms of durability, the X5 offers superior waterproofing, rated to 49ft / 15m, compared to the X4’s 33ft / 10m. The X5 also introduces a magnetic mount and fully replaceable lenses, offering more flexibility, while the X4 uses a screw-in mount and screw-on lens guards, which are less convenient.
Despite these differences, both cameras maintain a similar overall design and are built to withstand the rigors of active content creation, with the X5 offering practical enhancements for those seeking more robust performance and easier maintenance.
Insta360 X5 vs X4 Camera
When comparing the Insta360 X5 and Insta360 X4 purely in terms of camera performance, the X5 clearly offers a significant upgrade over its predecessor.
The Insta360 X5 is equipped with twin 1/1.28-inch sensors, which are notably larger than the 1/2-inch sensors in the X4. Larger sensors allow the X5 to capture more light, resulting in better low-light performance, improved dynamic range, and overall sharper, more detailed images and video.
This camera also introduces Insta360’s PureVideo technology, powered by a new triple-chip processor setup, which greatly enhances video clarity and reduces noise, especially useful for night shots or dimly lit environments.
In terms of video capability, both cameras can shoot in 8K at 30fps, but the X5 handles this resolution with greater efficiency and clarity thanks to its upgraded hardware and image processing.
Both also support 5.7K at 60fps, but footage from the X5 will look cleaner and more lifelike, especially in challenging lighting.
Insta360 X5 vs X4 Price
Insta360 X5 launched at $549.99 / £519.99 / AU$929.99. Insta360 X4 costs $499.99 / £499.99 / AU$879.99, but is often available for less.
There was not a huge leap in cost between the generations, but there was an increase. The Insta360 X4 launched at $499.99 / £499.99 / AU$879.99, the X5 at $549.99 / £519.99 / AU$929.99.
Insta360 X5 vs X4 Battery
The Insta360 X5 features a 2,400mAh battery, offering improved battery life compared to its predecessor, the Insta360 X4, which has a 2,290mAh battery. With this larger battery, the X5 provides 87 minutes of recording time for 8K video and up to 185 minutes in 'Endurance' mode.
In contrast, the X4 offers 75 minutes of 8K recording and 135 minutes for 5.7K recording. Additionally, the X5 has a 35-minute charge time, which is quicker than the X4's 55-minute charge time.
The increased battery capacity in the X5 enhances its overall performance, allowing for longer shooting durations and faster recharging, making it more efficient for extended recording sessions.
Insta360 X5 vs X4 Usability
The Insta360 X5 and Insta360 X4 both provide excellent usability, with the X5 offering enhanced features suited for more demanding environments. The X5 boasts 49ft / 15m waterproofing, a 2,400mAh battery offering 87 minutes of 8K recording, and magnetic mounts with fully replaceable lenses, making it more versatile for extreme conditions and professional use.
Its larger 1/1.28-inch sensors provide superior image quality, especially in low light, ensuring higher sensitivity and lower noise. Additionally, the X5’s PureVideo technology and auto-capture features further elevate its usability.
On the other hand, the Insta360 X4 has 33ft / 10m waterproofing, a 2,290mAh battery providing 75 minutes of 8K recording, and screw-on lens guards, which, while effective, are less convenient compared to the X5’s magnetic mounts. The X4 uses smaller 1/2-inch sensors, which still produce high-quality images but may not perform as well in low-light situations.
While the X4 is a solid, more budget-friendly choice with a 55-minute charge time, the X5 is better equipped for users who need longer battery life, better waterproofing, and higher-quality imaging for professional applications.
