Yesterday, I had the opportunity to attend Insta360’s press event at Grand Central Station in New York City, where the company unveiled its most ambitious 360-degree camera to date — the Insta360 X5. Surrounded by creators, tech enthusiasts, and media, I experienced firsthand the camera’s impressive new features, durable design, and AI-powered capabilities that promise to redefine how creators shoot, edit, and share immersive content.
From the moment you hold it, the X5 feels like a leap forward — not just a generational update. This is a device that combines cutting-edge imaging technology with real-world usability, catering to both professionals and casual adventurers alike.
Screen on Insta360 X5 cameraGearBrain
At the heart of the X5 is a pair of massive 1/1.28" sensors — a 144% size increase over the X4 — capable of capturing true-to-life 8K 360° video at 30fps. Insta360 has coupled these sensors with a powerful new Triple AI Chip system, which includes a 5nm AI chip and two Pro Imaging Chips. The result is dramatically improved image processing across the board, with cleaner, brighter, and more dynamic footage even in challenging conditions.
One of the standout features I witnessed was PureVideo, Insta360’s new AI-driven low-light mode. This mode uses advanced noise reduction and dynamic range optimization to produce cinematic results at night — ideal for creators who shoot after dark or in dim indoor environments. As JK Liu, Insta360’s Founder, explained, “X5 redefines 360° cameras by solving creators' real challenges. From replaceable lenses to AI-powered low-light shooting, we've built our dream camera—rugged enough for adventure, capable enough to produce high quality footage, and intelligent enough to capture epic moments effortlessly."
Built for Adventure — And AccidentsInsta360
Where the X5 truly differentiates itself is in durability and flexibility. For the first time, Insta360 has introduced a replaceable lens system — a total game changer. If a lens cracks mid-hike or during a mountain bike ride, you can swap it out in minutes without sending the camera in for repair. This alone makes the X5 a standout option for content creators working in rugged conditions.
To reinforce its toughness, the camera's new ultra-durable lens glass is scratch-resistant and built for impact. It’s also waterproof to 49 feet (15 meters) without additional housing — perfect for divers, surfers, and underwater filmmakers.
Even wind noise is no match for the X5’s built-in wind guard and upgraded audio algorithm, ensuring immersive, clear sound without the usual whoosh you get from high-speed action or drone footage.
Seamless Shooting with InstaFrame and Smart ControlsGearBrain
What’s especially compelling is how Insta360 is simplifying the often complex world of 360° video capture. The new InstaFrame Mode simultaneously records a full 360° video and an auto-framed flat video — one that’s ready to share instantly with no editing. You can choose a static frame or let the AI keep you centered in selfie view. It’s ideal for solo vloggers, influencers, and families who want to capture and post moments fast without the editing overhead.
However, my favorite feature of this new Insta360 camera is the invisible selfie stick effect that is still here and works beautifully — giving you impossible drone-like shots without any gear showing up in the footage. Add in gesture control, voice commands, and even the quirky but useful Twist to Shoot feature, and you have a camera that’s just as fun to use as it is powerful.
The X5 also comes with a fully upgraded Insta360 app and cloud-based editing via Insta360+. With features like Quick Edit, AI Edit, and Shot Lab templates, even beginner users can create professional-looking edits in minutes. For power users, the Insta360 Studio desktop app allows for full manual control and high-bitrate exports.
The revamped app also includes a Dewarp button to instantly fix fisheye distortion, and one-tap export options for creators on the go. These tools make post-production far less intimidating — something many 360° newcomers struggle with.
Who Should Buy the Insta360 X5?GearBrain
The Insta360 X5 is ideal for:
At a starting price of $549.99 (or $659.99 for the Essentials Bundle), the X5 isn’t cheap, but it delivers immense value for the features packed into its slim 200g frame. From the moment you power it on, it’s clear this is more than a gadget — it’s a storytelling tool.
Available on company site, B&H, Best Buy, and Amazon today.
Seeing the Insta360 X5 in action at Grand Central Station wasn’t just a product launch — it felt like a glimpse into the future of content creation. The hands-on demos showed off the real magic of the X5: shoot first, worry later. Whether it’s capturing your first dive, a bustling New York night, or your kid’s first steps, the X5 ensures you never miss the moment.
The combination of high image quality, AI-powered ease of use, rugged design, and intuitive software makes the X5 the most complete and creator-friendly 360° camera Insta360 has ever made.
For those ready to level up their creative content — or just want the smartest, toughest action camera on the market — the X5 is an easy recommendation.
You can try and buy the X5 at Insta360’s pop-up event at Grand Central’s Vanderbilt Hall today, or head to the Insta360 website or Amazon to order online.
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