Review: Insta360 X4 Air
The recently released Insta360 X4 Air 8K 360 camera is billed as a beginner-friendly, lightweight option at a budget price.
Down under, the Insta360 X4 is priced at around $525 for the standard bundle, while the Insta360 X5 ranges from approximately $790 to $930 depending on the retailer and bundle.
So while the X4 could be seen as a stripped-down version of its bigger, pricier sibling, the X5, it may have more power and value than is initially suggested - let's take a look.
The tech
Weighing just 165 grams, the X4 Air shoots 8K video at 30fps, 50fps at 6K, and higher frame rates at lower resolutions. It captures 29MP 360° stills and offers time-lapse and motion-lapse modes. It features twin 6.4mm f/1.95 lenses, a 1/1.8-inch sensor, a single processor, a 2.5-inch touchscreen, a removable battery, and microSD storage.
The 46×114×37 mm rugged plastic and polycarbonate body has one front function button, two side buttons, and a standard ¼-inch screw mount.
The camera is waterproof to 15 metres and comes in black or white.
In use
As a longtime Insta360 user and non-technical stills photographer, I found this camera very easy to use. Auto modes are much improved compared with older models, and even a manual user like me found switching between modes in run-and-gun situations straightforward.
Editing through the mobile and desktop apps is simple and makes creating 360 content enjoyable even for beginners.
Image quality
Video quality is strong, provided you learn how to use the camera effectively. Low light is its only real weakness compared with the X5. Active HDR performs well in bright and contrasty scenes.
Stills are solid at 29MP with file sizes around 7 to 11 MB. They are smaller than the X5’s 72MB files but sufficient for most non-commercial uses. HDR mode works well in some situations, though it can look over-processed.
AE bracketing allows for more controlled editing later. PureShot helps with low-light stills but very dark or moving scenes remain challenging.
With a little practice, results are impressive, especially compared with older models. Reframed videos are comparable with many newer action cameras.
A single 170-degree POV lens mode provides full 4K output and 2.7K vertical output, which action camera users will appreciate.
While it does not match the X5, the performance at this price is remarkable. Low-light performance remains its main limitation, but even then the results are usable.
The results
Build quality: ★ ★ ★ ★
Solid, well-sealed, with easily replaceable lenses.
Image quality: ★ ★ ★ ★
Excellent in good lighting but slightly behind the X5 in low light.
Value for money: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Excellent bang for the buck, especially with its replaceable lenses.
The wrap-up
The X4 Air is a lightweight, affordable, and user-friendly 360 camera. Coupled with Insta360’s mobile and desktop apps, it offers great value and ease of use. Low-light shooting is its relative weakness, but even then it performs better than some modern action cameras.
For most photographers, it is a versatile and handy tool. However, those seeking higher-quality virtual tours or regularly shooting in low light may find the X5 worth the extra investment.