Have you ever struggled to choose a 360° camera without ever being sure of your shot? We all know it : between tempting promises and disappointments in practice, the risk is great. With the Insta360 X5, we enter a new era, but is it THE revolution we were hoping for? Tested, dissected, compared to its rivals, here is our complete analysis: from the 8K sensor to the replaceable lenses, through the record battery life and concrete user reviews, we tell you everything to avoid unpleasant surprises. Ready to see the difference?
Summary of our review of the Insta360 X5
Frankly, the Insta360 X5 marks a real turning point in 360° cameras. It’s not just a cosmetic update: the 1/1.28″ sensors offer a 144% gain over the previous generation, which changes everything in low light. Because yes, the images are significantly cleaner, with less noise, even without daylight. What really convinced me was also the modularity: the replaceable lenses are unheard of in this segment. No more costly repairs if a lens gets scratched while kayaking or snowboarding. And in terms of autonomy? Heavy: up to 185 minutes of recording in 5.7K, it’s 25% better than the X4. In short, between the FlowState stabilization that holds the horizon at arm’s length on a mountain bike and the cloud storage offered, we feel that the engineers have listened to user feedback. Personally, I tested both versions, and the X5 is heavy, especially for outdoor content creators.
Insta360 X5 Pros Cons Comparison Table Based on Verified Data
| Category | Advantage/Disadvantage | Specific Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Image Sensors | Quality improvement | 1/1.28″ sensors (144% larger than previous models) |
| Objectives | Modularity | Replaceable lenses (kit available at 35,99€) |
| Resistance | Increased robustness | 200% more drop resistant than the previous generation |
| Audio | Sound quality | Integrated wind screen + Bluetooth headset compatibility (SENA, Cardo) |
| Stabilization | Video Performance | FlowState + 360° horizon lock |
| Airtightness | Versatile use | Waterproof up to 15m (50% better than X4) |
| Battery | Autonomy | Up to 185 minutes in 5.7K 24fps (Endurance mode) |
| Photo | Performance | 72MP 360° photos with increased detail |
| Weight | Disadvantage | 200g (238g with accessories) |
| Wind Shield | Limitation | Less efficient than the Ace Pro 2 (requires additional accessory) |
| Thermal | Disadvantage | Overheating after 1h17min in 8K under the sun |
| Interface | Disadvantage | Buttons that are difficult to use with gloves |
Insta360 X5 Pricing
The different bundles available
Who hasn’t hesitated when faced with camera setup options? Insta360 has simplified the choice with its various bundles, all centered around the central element: the X5. The most basic, the Standard Bundle, trades at $549.99. Nothing very extraordinary at this stage, except for the camera alone, without a memory card. Why bother when you can aim for the $581 Get-Set Bundle? There, we get the lens cap and the invisible selfie stick, very practical for the first shots. Those who want to upgrade will opt for the $599.99 Starter Bundle, with battery backup and an upgraded stick. And for demanding creators, the Creator Bundle reaches $694, but pulls out all the stops: audio accessories, microphone adapter and fast player. In short, the choice is between stripping down and completeness.
Comparison of the different bundles of the Insta360 X5
| Bundle | Content | Price |
| Standard | Insta360 X5 Camera | CA$ 549.99 |
| Get-Set | Camera, lens cap, selfie stick | $581 |
| Choke | Camera, lens cap, battery, selfie stick | CA$ 599.99 |
| Essentials | Camera, battery, charger, stick, lens protectors | CA$ 659.99 |
| Ultimate Creator | Camera, Bullet Time, Player, Mic | $669 |
| Invisible Dive | Camera, stick, diving body, floating handle | $700 |
If you’re looking for a balance between content and budget, the $659.99 Essentials Pack stands out. For this price, you get the camera, a backup battery, a fast charger, the 114 cm invisible selfie stick, the lens protectors and the carrying case. This pack offers a 30% discount on the included accessories, which is not negligible. Scuba diving enthusiasts will lean towards the $700 Invisible Dive Bundle, with waterproof case, floating handle and wrist strap. Cyclists will find what they are looking for in the Road Cycling Bundle at $671, with specific support. In short, each activity has its ideal bundle, and each budget has its offer.
Our opinion on the price of the Insta360 X5
Between us, the price of the Insta360 X5 is justified by its technical improvements. We’re talking about 1/1.28″ sensors that are larger than previous generations, better FlowState stabilization, water resistance up to 15 meters and replaceable lenses. This last point, which is often underestimated, makes it possible to avoid costly repairs in the event of a damaged lens. Compared to the X4, the extra cost is justified by the move upmarket. So, is it a scam? Not at all. It is even a logical evolution for those who aim for professional quality. For content creators or demanding athletes, this price balances with durability and performance. Clearly, we pay for technology and resistance, not just for the name of the brand. And given the bundles offered, everyone can calibrate their purchase according to their needs.
The question of the best bundle depends mainly on your business. Vlogging beginners or casual travelers will opt for the Get-Set or Starter Bundle, which ranges from $581 to $599.99. These packs offer the essentials without breaking the bank. Extreme athletes, between diving and snowboarding, will fall for the Invisible Dive or the Snowboard Bundle, around $606-700. Professional creators, on the other hand, will invest in the Ultimate Creator or the Creator Bundle ($669-694) to take advantage of the premium accessories. And let’s be honest: if you want versatility without breaking the bank, the $659.99 Essentials offer is still the most relevant. It contains the essentials: backup battery, charger, stick and protections. No regrets possible at this price.
Insta360 X5: for whom?
Frankly, if you’re doing content on the move, the Insta360 X5 is going to speak to you. Vlog creators, vloggers, demanding athletes, you are the main targets. What for? First of all because of its versatility: between the Road mode for motorcyclists, the waterproofing up to 15 meters for dives, and the ability to survive in extreme conditions, this 360° camera takes it all. Personally, I tested it with my ski friends, we fell without fear. And let’s be honest, the Voice Enhancement mode is the best when you want to comment on your shots without filter. In short, whether you shoot for YouTube, your Instagram account or for virtual tours, this camera adapts to your needs. Even film pros have plenty to do with raw DNG files to use in post-production.
- Content creators who want to capture immersive 360° images for their vlogs or social media
- Adventurers and sportsmen practicing extreme activities thanks to its robustness and water resistance up to 15 meters
- Film professionals or photographers looking to integrate innovative shots with its 1/1.28″ sensors and PureVideo mode
- Users already equipped with an X3 or earlier model to take advantage of improvements in image quality and durability
And there, it’s drama for your friends who are still hesitating! The Insta360 X5 rocks in hectic environments. Motorcyclists love the Road mode, which automatically blurs the number plates. Cyclists, on the other hand, use the Motion ND mode for cinematic blur effects. When diving, AquaVision 2.0 corrects underwater colors, no need for heavy retouching. Even in winter, the X5 can withstand the cold and snowfall. So, for content creators, it’s a nugget: with InstaFrame, you shoot flat video and 360° video at the same time. And travelers, you’ll love the TimeShift mode that captures the evolution of a landscape. In short, each activity has its own dedicated mode. And even if you prefer to shoot in a studio office, the 8K quality and raw DNG files open the door to professional editing.
List of features
Improved image quality and powerful sensors
Personally, I tested the 1/1.28″ sensors of the X5, and frankly, it’s a technological leap. These sensors, which are 144% larger than those in the X4, capture more light, which changes everything in low light. With the Triple AI Chip, images are sharp, colors are more realistic, and digital noise is reduced. PureVideo mode optimizes exposure and dynamic range with AI, even in complicated lighting conditions. And in 8K recording, 11K to 8K supersampling brings out new details. Clearly, it’s a logical evolution for those who want 360° videos worthy of a pro, without breaking the bank in post-production. And there, it’s the drama for the competitors: the X5 forces the handin raw quality.
In terms of resolutions, the X5 is not lacking in ambition. In 360° mode, you can go from 8K30fps (7680×3840) to 5.7K60fps, ideal for slow motion. InstaFrame mode captures 360° video and a framed version simultaneously, convenient for social media. In extreme conditions, PureVideo mode automatically adjusts settings for bright, clean images. As for single-lens videos, 4K120fps in 1080p or FreeFrame in 2.7K60fps adapt to all needs. In short, whether you edit in 8K or cut in 1080p, the X5 keeps its promises.
Replaceable lenses and ruggedness
Replaceable lenses are a treasure trove of sustainability. Before, a scratched lens when diving or mountain biking cost you a trip to the after-sales service. With the X5, personally, I changed a lens in 5 minutes with the tool provided. The kit costs €35.99, a small amount compared to the price of a repair. The reinforced materials are resistant to drops: 200% more resistant than the X4, according to laboratory tests. And let’s be honest, in snowboarding, it’s a relief to no longer fear shocks.
Water-resistant to 15 meters, the X5 survives dives at sea. That’s 50% better than the X4, which opens up possibilities. No need for a camera to film while freediving or surfing. Its waterproofing, combined with its resistance to drops, makes it an ally for extreme activities. Personally, I tested the second lenses on a hike: even in the rain, the plugs are clean. In short, it is a camera ready for anything, without superfluous accessories.
FlowState stabilization and smart modes
FlowState stabilization is magic for shaky videos. Thanks to its gyroscopic sensors and AI, the X5 compensates for sudden movements. On a mountain bike, even without anti-vibration, the images remain fluid. The horizon lock, on the other hand, automatically corrects angles, avoiding rotational effects. For dash cam enthusiasts, Road mode blurs plates in real time. As a result, it is an ally for motorcycle or bicycle drivers.
The PureVideo mode is the low-light assistant. In the forest or at dusk, it boosts brightness and reduces noise, without losing detail. InstaFrame, on the other hand, simplifies editing: record a 360° video and a framed version simultaneously. For social networks, it’s a time saver. And new features such as TimeShift or Bullet Time offer pro effects, such as slow motion in motion. In short, AI makes creation accessible, even to beginners.
Battery life and connectivity
With its 2400mAh battery, the X5 holds its own. In 8K30fps, count 88 minutes. In Endurance mode (5.7K24fps), it goes up to 185 minutes. For long sessions, the 9V/3A charger charges to 80% in 20 minutes. Personally, when hiking, I avoided intermediate recharging. On the other hand, in 8K under the sun, overheating occurs after 1h17min. But for continuous editing, it’s a lesser evil.
Battery life depending on the mode of use
| Fashion | Autonomy |
| 8K30fps | 88 minutes |
| 5.7K60fps | 135 minutes |
| Endurance 5.7K24fps | 185 minutes |
| Registration + charging | Unlimited |
Connectivity boils down to USB-C, Bluetooth, and WiFi. The Insta360 app handles remote control, AI editing, and sharing. The Shot Lab offers 25 editing templates, perfect for viral clips. Offline, the publisher avoids downloading 8K videos, which saves space. And for creators on the move, automatic plate blurring and Bluetooth audio (SENA, Cardo) are details that matter. In short, the X5 is part of a seamless workflow from filming to broadcast.
Insta360 X5 Customer Reviews
On the official website, the Insta360 X5 shines with an average rating of 4.8/5. This high score does not fall from the sky: users praise the modularity of the replaceable lenses, a first in this segment. Personally, I saw a skier save his session after a shock on the lens, something unthinkable on old models. The technical upgrade is also impressive: sensors 144% larger than the X4, PureVideo for low light, and FlowState stabilization that holds up on mountain bikes. In short, the feedback converges on one observation: this 360° camera breaks the codes. Even the most demanding take it for granted, between the Road mode to blur the plates and the 15-meter water resistance.
- Outstanding image quality thanks to the triple AI processor that enhances colors and reduces noise
- Significantly improved battery life with 185 minutes of recording in Endurance mode
- Automatically erase old footage in dash cam mode for simplified storage management
- Optimized Bluetooth connectivity for easy remote control during sports activities
- Automatic license plate blurring for privacy in road videos
User feedback varies according to the discipline. A biker shares how Road mode simplified his videos without manual blurring, an obvious time-saver. One cyclist mentions the Motion ND mode for artistic blurring effects on his routes. When diving, AquaVision 2.0 corrects blue hues without post-processing, a must for casual divers. And for snow enthusiasts, the X5 is resistant to drops on the slopes. As a result, whether you shoot in an urban environment or in the middle of nature, the feedback confirms its versatility. An alpine guide even notes its use in hiking, despite the cold and shocks.
Some areas for improvement stand out. One user notices a strobe effect on fine details when zoomed, a defect that can bother demanding videographers. The overheating in 8K under the sun (1h17min before the shutdown) is also divisive: acceptable for short shoots, penalizing for documentaries. Finally, the weight (238g with accessories) bothers users of lightweight headphones, with a “bobblehead” effect in front mounting.
Final Insta360 X5 Review
Frankly, the Insta360 X5 is coming to transform the 360° camera market. Its 1/1.28″ sensors offer unprecedented image quality, especially in low light, and the replaceable lenses are a game-changer for durability. Personally, I tested a bundle with the invisible stick and the additional battery, and in 8K, the details are stunning. The water resistance to 15 meters is 50% better than the X4, which opens up possibilities underwater without a case. And let’s be honest, the 185-minute battery life in Endurance mode is 25% more than the previous generation. Compared to the GoPro Max 2, the X5 dominates in 8K resolution, but loses one point in extreme resistance. In short, it’s a concentrate of technology for creators on the move.
Who should you fall for? Vloggers, extreme athletes and film professionals will fall in love. Motorcyclists will appreciate the Road mode to blur license plates with one click. When diving, AquaVision 2.0 corrects blue hues without post-processing. On the other hand, if you are looking for an optical zoom or a real estate virtual tour camera, a dedicated solution will be more suitable. Motorsport enthusiasts will opt for the X5 with the Road Cycling Bundle: handlebar mount and Motion ND mode as a bonus. For new users, the Get-Set Bundle offers good value for money, with the invisible stick and lens cap. In short, it is a premium tool for those who want to film without limits.
And that’s the drama for your old video projects! The Insta360 X5 redefines expectations for 360°. Between raw quality, modular objectives and AI intelligence, we have a reference. For movement enthusiasts, it’s clear: go to the official Insta360 X5 website. Improved image quality, robustness and AI features are on the agenda. Click here to order the Insta360 X5 and take advantage of the 6 months of free cloud storage. Content creators, sportsmen and adventurers will take the brunt of it. And for others, remember: sometimes it’s by circling around the lens that you capture the world from all angles. So, are you ready to take the plunge?
With the Insta360 X5, you can have a good time in 360° mode: improved sensors, record battery life, and replaceable lenses. For those who want to capture life in motion without worrying about it, this 360° camera embodies the ideal compromise between power and simplicity. And there, it’s clear: the videos of tomorrow are written today, in your hands.
❓ Insta360 X5 FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Insta360 X5 really better than the X4?Yes, the X5 significantly improves image quality thanks to its 1/1.28″ sensors (144% larger), better FlowState stabilization, and replaceable lenses that avoid costly repairs.
What is the actual battery life of the camera?In Endurance mode (5.7K at 24fps), the X5 lasts up to 185 minutes. In 8K, count about 88 minutes. It can even record continuously if plugged in.
Can you use the X5 underwater?Yes, it is waterproof up to 15 meters without a case, which is 50% better than the X4. A diving bundle is also available with a floating handle and Invisible Dive case.
What are the best bundles to start with?The Get-Set Bundle ($581) is perfect for getting started, complete with a lens cap and selfie stick. The Essentials Pack ($659.99) is the most balanced, with battery, charger, and useful accessories.
Is the camera compatible with older Insta360 accessories?No, some older accessories like those in the X4 are not compatible, which has disappointed some users.
Does the X5 overheat?Yes, in 8K under direct sunlight, overheating can appear after 1 hour and 17 minutes. This is rare, except in continuous high-resolution shooting.
Is the audio quality good?Yes, it has improved significantly with a built-in wind screen and Bluetooth compatibility (SENA, Cardo). A microphone adapter is also included in some bundles.
Is the X5 suitable for beginners?Yes, especially with the Insta360 app and AI features like InstaFrame or PureVideo. It simplifies the creation of professional content, even without editing experience.
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