Insta360 X5 vs X4 - which camera to choose in 2025?

on April 22, 2025, in celebration of its tenth anniversary, Insta360 unveiled a new spherical camera model - the Insta360 X5. This is the next generation and a clear step forward that may be of interest to developers as well as technology enthusiasts.

Previous version, Insta360 X4, which came out exactly a year ago - offers great image quality, stabilization and plenty of creative modes. Nevertheless, the manufacturer has managed to make many improvements: a larger sensor, interchangeable lenses, better sound and a more powerful battery. But does all this make it worth replacing the X4 with the X5? Or maybe the older model still holds the level? In this article, you will learn what has changed in the new X5.

Key improvements in Insta360 X5

The biggest change, which both professionals and amateurs will appreciate, is the use of a larger sensor 1/1.28", which provides noticeably better results in low light. It makes night shots, interiors or dynamic scenes with high contrasts look much more natural and sharper.

Inside you will also find a completely new triple AI chip system, which significantly accelerates image processing. In practice, this means less noise, better colors and smoother modes based on artificial intelligence, such as Auto Frame, Deep Track or the new PureVideo.

On top of that interchangeable lenses - a long-awaited feature in the world of 360° cameras that allows not only easier maintenance, but also potential future expansion with new types of lenses (e.g., macro, wide-angle). As of today, it is primarily a great convenience in case of scratches or damage.

Construction of the Insta360 X5 camera

From the outside, the X5 and X4 are almost identical, but the devil is in the details. New magnetic attachment system makes it easy to quickly flip the camera between mounts - no more tightening mounting plates. On top of that improved microphone with metal wind shield aND NEW, interchangeable lenses - something that was previously missing. Now repair or maintenance doesn't have to involve service. Additionally owater resistance has been increased from 10 to 15 meters.

Insta360 X5 image and sound quality

Although both models offer 8K video in 360°, the X5 uses a tzw. supersampling with 11K, which translates into better sharpness and detail in the footage. Despite similar performance on paper, it is the larger sensor and new algorithms that make the X5 a winner in practice - especially after dark.

PureShot HDR mode allows you to take pictures with a resolution as high as 72 MP under difficult lighting conditions. And with new recording modes in 5K HDR 60fps and 4K 120fps, the X5 better handles dynamic action.

in the X5 you will find new 360° microphone with stainless steel wind shield. This solution significantly reduces noise for outdoor recordings, and the new four-microphone array collects sound spatially, which works perfectly with 360° video.

Insta360 X5 camera modes and features

X5 is expanded software and new modes of operation. In addition to the familiar and well-loved features from the X4 (Bullet Time, Starlapse, TimeShift, etc.), the new model introduces several novelties:

• InstaFrame Mode - Simultaneous recording of flat video and 360° footage, ready for social media publishing.
• PureVideo - AI mode for low-light recording, familiar from the Ace Pro, but now applied to the 360° camera for the first time.
• Twist to Shoot - Recording gesture by twisting the selfie stick, even more intuitive than previous voice commands and gestures.
• New HDR capabilities - For example, 4K night shots with active HDR, previously unavailable on the X4.

X5 camera battery and mounting

Equally important are the changes in ergonomics. X5 introduces magnetic mounting system, that allows you to change handles in a flash - no screws or tools required. The camera itself is also lighter by 3 grams (200g vs 203g), which may seem like a small thing, but for longer recordings - it can make a difference.

Battery life has also improved: from 135 min to as much as 185 minutes, and fast charging (0-80% in 20 minutes) makes the X5 give you more freedom.

Specification comparison - Insta360 X5 vs Insta360 X4

Below you will find a summary of the key technical parameters of the Insta360 X5 and X4. This will help you quickly assess which parameters may be important to you - from resolution to night recording capabilities to battery life.

*Prices listed above are valid as of 24/04/2025 and are subject to change.

Is it worth replacing the X4 with the X5?

The X4 is still an excellent camera that provides great capabilities. However, if you often create content at night, care about the highest possible audio and video quality, or want to speed up the process of editing and publishing content - the X5 will be a sound investment.

In contrast, users of older models, such as X2 or X3, will feel a real leap in quality - both in ergonomics and features.

Who the X5 is for?

If you use the X4 model and are satisfied - rest assured, you do not need to rush to replace it, however, if you care about:

• low-light recording
• greater convenience of installation
• better sound and longer operating time
• or you are just trying on a high-end 360° camera - X5 will be a great choice.

Summary

Looking at the Insta360 X5, it's hard to tell that the manufacturer has only improved the little things. This is not just a cosmetic update. This equipment that brings a new quality to the 360° world, not only on paper, but especially in daily use.

Larger sensor is a better picture - meaning more freedom in difficult lighting conditions. New image processing system with three chips is faster action and fewer restrictions. Interchangeable lenses i better protection against water and wind give the user more independence and peace of mind. Plus realistically longer working time on battery and smarter AI features, that simplify content creation.

Is the X4 no longer attractive? Absolutely not. It's still a very solid camera that will meet the expectations of most users - especially if you manage to buy it at a good price. But if you care about maximum quality, convenience and modern solutions - the X5 will be your new best friend for special tasks.

For those switching from X3 or older models - the choice is obvious. For X4 owners - the decision depends on how much you use your camera and whether the new features actually hit your needs. One thing is certain Insta360 X5 is a piece of equipment that we strongly recommend.