Are you hesitating between the Insta360 GO Ultra and the GO 3S to capture your adventures? The upgrade to a larger sensor, 4K60fps, and removable storage is what makes this comparison so interesting. The GO Ultra impresses with its 1/1.28″ sensor for sharper videos in low light, while the GO 3S shines with its simplicity and compact size. So, whether you’re an extreme sports enthusiast, content creator, or simple vlogger, discover their strengths and weaknesses here to choose the one that perfectly suits your style, your budget, and your needs in terms of quality, battery life, and practicality.
- Insta360 GO Ultra vs. GO 3S: The Guide to Choosing Your Mini Action Camera
- The Specs Match: GO Ultra vs GO 3S at a Glance
- Image Quality and Power: What the Numbers Really Mean
- On the ground: autonomy, storage and design
- For whom and for what? Find the GO that suits you
- Verdict: So, Insta360 GO Ultra or GO 3S?
Insta360 GO Ultra vs. GO 3S: The Guide to Choosing Your Mini Action Camera
Can’t decide between the Insta360 GO Ultra and the GO 3S? The GO Ultra focuses on pure performance (1/1.28″ sensor, 2x 4K zoom, 200 min of battery life with Action Pod), while the GO 3S shines with its practicality (32GB internal storage, 2.5″ touchscreen, IPX8 waterproof to 10m).
Here are the key differences to choose from :
- Power: GO Ultra (4K60fps) vs GO 3S (4K30fps)
- Storage: GO Ultra (microSD card up to 2TB) vs GO 3S (32GB built-in)
- Battery life: GO Ultra (70 min camera only) vs GO 3S (53 min in 4K30fps)
- Price: GO Ultra ($449.99) vs GO 3S ($399)
Who are they for? The GO Ultra for demanding pros, the GO 3S for casual creators. Your choice will depend on your needs in terms of video quality, storage, and budget.
The Specs Match: GO Ultra vs GO 3S at a Glance
Here is a technical comparison of their main differences .
| Characteristic | Insta360 GO 3S | Insta360 GO Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 1/2.3″ | 1/1.28″ (221% larger) |
| Max video resolution | 4K at 30fps | 4K at 60fps |
| AI Processor | 14nm chip | 5nm chip (50x faster) |
| Storage | Integrated | Removable (up to 2TB) |
| Low light performance | Standard | Improved (PureVideo) |
| Weight (camera only) | 39.1g | 52.9g |
| Waterproofing (camera only) | 10m (IPX8) | 10m (IPX8) |
| Battery life (camera only) | 38 min | 70 min |
| Autonomy (with Action Pod) | 140 min | 200 min |
The numbers speak for themselves: the GO Ultra excels in image quality and flexibility, the GO 3S in compactness and simplicity.
Image Quality and Power: What the Numbers Really Mean
Sensor and resolution: a leap forward for the GO Ultra
The GO Ultra’s sensor (1/1.28″) is 221% larger than the GO 3S’s . This captures twice as much light, reducing digital noise and revealing richer colors. Perfect for indoor or low-light scenes, such as filming a forest hike or twilight activity. Both models offer 4K, but the GO Ultra goes up to 60fps (4K60fps) compared to 30fps for the GO 3S. This ensures smooth shots for fast movements (skiing, mountain biking) or sharp 2x slow motion. The GO 3S remains ideal for vlogging or travel, with a savings of €150 and slightly longer battery life.
Processing power and AI: intelligence at the service of the image
The GO Ultra features a 5nm chip, 50 times more powerful than the GO 3S (14nm). This improves FlowState stabilization and 360° horizon lock , even in extreme conditions. Its concrete advantages:
- FlowState Stabilization : Clear videos even when skydiving or racing
- Horizon Lock 360° : perfectly straight horizon, even in disorderly movements
- PureVideo: 40% low-light noise reduction for sharper scenes
- Energy efficiency : the 5nm chip consumes 30% less energy
The GO 3S is ideal for vlogging or travel videos , with solid stabilization for everyday content. The GO Ultra is a must-have for extreme sports enthusiasts, thanks to its advanced AI and real-time correction. For those on a tight budget, the GO 3S remains an excellent choice. Discover which accessories will complement your creative style at Drone and Cam.
On the ground: autonomy, storage and design
Battery life and charging: who lasts the longest?
For battery life, the Insta360 GO Ultra boasts 70 minutes of standalone use, compared to 38 minutes for the GO 3S. With the Action Pod, the battery life jumps to 200 minutes (Ultra) and 140 minutes (3S). The difference is especially noticeable in extreme conditions: a mountain road trip, a sports shoot, or an immersive day. The Action Pod remains essential for extending the experience, but the Ultra offers additional convenience with its accelerated recharge (80% in 12 minutes compared to 23 minutes for the 3S).
Storage: Total flexibility versus simplicity
The GO 3S is for those who prefer simplicity: 64 or 128 GB of internal storage, no SD card to manage. Ideal for short videos or quick sharing. But once you reach the limit, you can’t continue without emptying the files. The Insta360 GO Ultra, on the other hand, accepts microSD cards up to 2 TB. A time saver for professional videographers or nomadic travelers: swap cards in seconds without missing a shot. It’s up to you to choose between immediate convenience and the freedom to expand .
Storage choices also impact your budget: the GO Ultra requires an investment in fast cards, while the 3S avoids these additional costs. To better understand these differences, Drone & Cam offers detailed comparisons to align your gear with your creative goals .
For whom and for what? Find the GO that suits you
The choice between the Insta360 GO Ultra and the GO 3S depends on your usage. Focus on practical cases to help you choose the right one .
Vlogging and Daily Life
The GO 3S is a perfect fit. Its affordable price, lightweight (39.1g), and built-in Action Pod allow you to easily capture spontaneous shots . You don’t need 4K60fps for this type of use.
Extreme sports and action
The Ultra stands out with its 4K60fps and 240fps slow motion in 1080p. Ideal for filming fast movements with fluidity and precision. The video quality justifies its price in this context.
Travel and long shoots
The GO Ultra is the only option thanks to its removable storage (up to 2TB). Extended battery life (200 min with Action Pod in 1080p). The GO 3S, limited to 64/128GB internal storage, is less suitable for long sessions.
Low light
For concerts or parties, the Ultra shines with its 1/1.28″ sensor and PureVideo mode. 200% better image quality than the GO 3S in dark environments.
FPV Drones
The GO 3S (39.1g) is optimal for lightweight configurations . The Ultra (52.9g) remains usable if quality is paramount.
- Vlogging/lifestyle: GO 3S : value for money and lightness (39.1g).
- Extreme Sports: GO Ultra: 4K60fps for smooth, pro-level slow motion.
- Travel: GO Ultra : microSD storage (2TB) and 200 min battery life.
- Low light : GO Ultra: 1/1.28″ sensor and PureVideo.
- FPV Drone : GO 3S for lightness, GO Ultra for quality.
Verdict: So, Insta360 GO Ultra or GO 3S?
So, in the end, Which one to choose? Let’s summarize.
Why choose the Insta360 GO 3S?
It is the camera of efficiency and the best value for money .
- Ideal if you are just starting out or if your budget is tighter .
- Perfect for vlogging, social media, and everyday memories .
- You are looking for the simplest and lightest solution possible.
Why choose the Insta360 GO Ultra?
It is the choice for maximum performance and professional flexibility .
- You are a demanding content creator or a professional .
- Low-light quality and smooth 4K60fps slow motion are non-negotiable for you.
- You need the flexibility of microSD card storage for important projects.
To go further and discover a whole ecosystem of accessories for your future camera, don’t hesitate to explore the resources available on Drone & Cam .
Whichever you choose, you’re about to capture some incredible moments. The important thing is to choose the tool that will give you the most pleasure while creating !
So, GO Ultra or GO 3S ? It all depends on your needs ! The GO 3S is ideal for lightweight and affordable videos . The GO Ultra shines with its image quality , flexible storage, and low-light performance. Whichever you choose, it’s the perfect tool . Accessories? Find them on Drone & Cam !
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