The Samsung Gear 360 is a compact 360° camera that lets you capture immersive photos and videos from any angle. Launched by Samsung as a companion accessory for its Galaxy smartphones, this camera is particularly well-suited for beginners who want to get started with immersive photography without breaking the bank. While the Samsung Gear 360 is an affordable choice for those wanting to explore 360° capture, it can’t quite compete with more advanced camera models like those from Insta360, which generally offer superior quality and more advanced features.
Samsung Gear 360 – Design and Design
The Samsung Gear 360 features a distinctive spherical design. Its compact size and relatively light weight make it easy to take anywhere, perfect for capturing spontaneous moments on outings or trips. It’s equipped with two opposing fisheye lenses, each capable of capturing 180° video, which are then combined to create a complete 360° view.
One of the defining features of the Samsung Gear 360’s design is its simplicity. With few buttons and a small monochrome screen, the camera is easy to use, even for users who aren’t very tech-savvy. It can be easily controlled via the Samsung Gear 360 app on a smartphone, which offers more advanced control options, such as live preview and basic image editing.
Samsung Gear 360 – Video and Image Quality
The Samsung Gear 360 can record video in resolutions up to 4K at 30 frames per second, which is quite good for an entry-level 360 camera. Photos, on the other hand, have a resolution of up to 15 MP. Image quality is decent for outdoor shots in good lighting, but it can quickly deteriorate indoors or in low light, where image noise becomes noticeable.
In terms of performance, the Samsung Gear 360 is capable of producing interesting immersive images, but it lacks some advanced features found on more modern models, such as advanced image stabilization. This means that captured videos can be less smooth during fast-moving scenes. For vlogging or action shots, cameras like the Insta360 ONE X2 or X3 will offer significantly better stabilization and overall image quality.
The Samsung Gear 360 offers several shooting modes, including timelapse and landscape, allowing users to personalize their 360° videos and photos. However, the customization options remain limited compared to models like Insta360, which offer more creative editing through a range of filters and effects.
Samsung Gear 360 – Connectivity and Compatibility
The Samsung Gear 360 is designed for use with Samsung smartphones, although it is also compatible with other Android devices and, to some extent, iPhones. The camera features Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing for remote control and direct file transfer to a smartphone or computer for editing and sharing.
The Samsung Gear 360 app is easy to use, but it doesn’t offer as many advanced options as some competing apps, particularly Insta360. Furthermore, the requirement to use a Samsung smartphone to access all features can be a drawback for users of other brands. This limitation restricts the camera’s flexibility for users who don’t own Samsung equipment.
The Samsung Gear 360’s storage is based on a microSD card (up to 256GB), which is sufficient for recording hours of 4K video. However, as mentioned earlier, files can be large, especially at maximum resolution, and editing 4K files can be somewhat cumbersome on less powerful devices.
Samsung Gear 360 – Performance and Usage
The Samsung Gear 360 is easy to use, thanks to its simple interface and ergonomic design. The camera’s various buttons provide quick access to key functions, such as capturing photos and videos. However, to fully utilize its capabilities, it’s often best to use the mobile app to control the camera and access all available options.
Battery life is decent, offering approximately 1 to 2 hours of continuous recording depending on the resolution used. However, the non-removable battery could be a problem for users who want to film for extended periods without the possibility of recharging. For action cameras intended for prolonged use, more advanced models like those from Insta360 might be better suited, as they allow for battery swapping in the field.
Samsung Gear 360 – Strengths and Weaknesses
Key Features :
- Compact and easy to carry design
- Easy to use, with a simple interface
- 4K video at an affordable price
- Compatible with Samsung Galaxy smartphones and some other Android devices
Weak Points :
- Image quality decreases in low light
- Image stabilization is limited compared to more advanced cameras.
- Non-removable battery
- Limited functionality on non-Samsung smartphones
Samsung Gear 360 – Conclusion
The Samsung Gear 360 is an ideal 360 camera for beginners who want to get started with immersive video at an affordable price. With its compact design and ease of use, it’s well-suited for users looking for a camera that’s easy to carry and operate. However, for those seeking superior image quality, better stabilization, and advanced features, cameras in the Insta360 range, such as the ONE X2 or X3, remain far superior choices.
If you’re looking for a camera to get started with 360° video capture without a major investment, the Samsung Gear 360 is a reasonable choice. But for a more professional experience and smoother, higher-quality videos, investing in a newer, more advanced model might be worthwhile.
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