Insta360 X4 Air: A Compact, Affordable 360 Action Camera
▼ Summary
– The Insta360 X4 Air is a new lighter, smaller, and more affordable 360-degree action camera priced at $399.99, compared to the $549.99 X5.
– It offers 8K video recording at 30fps but has lower frame rates at 4K and 1080p, and reduced 29MP photo resolution compared to the X4 and X5.
– The X4 Air features larger 1/1.8-inch sensors than the X4 for better detail and color, though they are smaller than the X5’s sensors, affecting low-light performance.
– It is slightly shorter and lighter than the X4 and X5, with a smaller battery providing up to 88 minutes of 8K recording, but is compatible with most X5 accessories.
– Key features include user-replaceable lenses, waterproofing up to 49 feet, and hands-free recording options like gestures and voice control.
The new Insta360 X4 Air presents a compelling, budget-friendly option for 360-degree video enthusiasts, delivering 8K recording capabilities in a more compact and affordable package than its recent sibling, the X5. Priced at $399.99, it offers a significant cost saving over the $549.99 X5 model. This new camera is launching globally through Insta360’s online store in graphite black and arctic white, though availability in the United States and Canada is still pending.
When it comes to video performance, the X4 Air matches the original X4 with 360-degree 8K video recording at a maximum of 30 frames per second. Dropping the resolution to 4K allows for a maximum of 50fps, which is lower than the 100fps available on both the X5 and X4 for creating smooth slow-motion footage. To achieve 120fps, users must switch to a single-lens mode at 1080p resolution. For still photography, the X4 Air captures images at up to 29 megapixels, a step down from the 72MP resolution offered by its more advanced counterparts.
A notable hardware upgrade involves the sensors. The X4 Air is equipped with two 1/1.8-inch sensors, which are physically larger than the 1/2-inch sensors found in the older X4. Insta360 claims this change helps the camera capture better detail and more vivid color straight out of the camera. However, these sensors remain smaller than the 1/1.28-inch sensors in the flagship X5, meaning the X5 retains an advantage, particularly in challenging low-light shooting scenarios.
The defining feature of the X4 Air is its more portable form factor. While not dramatically smaller, it measures 113mm tall, making it about 10mm shorter than the X4 and X5. Weighing just 165 grams, it is also 30 grams lighter, which could make a noticeable difference in comfort during all-day use. This compact design does involve a trade-off: a smaller 2,010mAh battery. Insta360 estimates a battery life of up to 88 minutes when recording in 8K at 30fps, which places it between the endurance of the X4 and X5 models.
Convenience is further enhanced by features carried over from higher-end models. The X4 Air supports the removable lens guards first introduced with the X4. More importantly, it inherits one of the X5’s best features: user-replaceable lenses that can be swapped out in seconds. Durability is not compromised, as the camera is waterproof down to 49 feet without requiring an additional housing. It also includes the same intuitive, hands-free control options, allowing users to start recording with simple gestures, voice commands, or by twisting a selfie stick.
(Source: The Verge)
