DJI's Debut 360-degree Camera Shows Potential, However, Requires Some Adjustments
New Release: DJI Osmo 360 and Insta360 X5 Compared
The technology race in the realm of 360 cameras has taken a new turn with the release of the DJI Osmo 360 and the Insta360 X5. Both devices are compact, lightweight, and boast impressive features, but they cater to different needs and preferences.
Build and Design
Both the Osmo 360 and X5 are pocket-sized, boasting IP68 ratings for dust and water resistance. The X5, however, is waterproof up to 15 meters, making it a more suitable choice for underwater photography. Both cameras come equipped with a small touchscreen, three physical buttons, a tripod, and a magnetic mounting system. The Osmo 360, unique among 360 cameras, features a custom 1-inch square sensor with larger pixels (2.4 μm), offering about 25% more usable image area and better low-light performance compared to the X5’s smaller 1/1.28-inch rectangular sensor with smaller pixels (~1.2 μm). The X5, on the other hand, offers user-replaceable lenses, reducing repair costs and risks.
Video and Image Performance
Both cameras can shoot 8K 360 video, but the Osmo 360 can reach up to 50 fps at 8K, while the X5 maxes out at 30 fps. The Osmo 360 also supports 10-bit video capture with D-Log M profile, offering better color grading and dynamic range, while the X5 captures 8-bit with ILog, which is not a true log profile. The X5 offers an Active HDR mode at 5.7K, while the Osmo 360 provides a wide dynamic range without needing a separate HDR toggle. Both cameras perform well in low light, with DJI’s SuperNight mode producing natural results and Insta360’s PureVideo algorithm delivering reliable low-light output.
Screen and Usability
The Osmo 360 features a horizontal screen, ideal for previewing landscape content, while the X5’s vertical screen is optimized for vertical content intended for social media like Instagram Reels.
Price Differences
The DJI Osmo 360 is positioned as a high-end camera, with a higher price point due to its advanced sensor tech and video specifications. The Insta360 X5’s lens replaceability and extra convenience features may balance this cost for some users.
Summary Table
| Feature/Aspect | DJI Osmo 360 | Insta360 X5 | |--------------------------|--------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------| | Sensor Size | Custom 1" square sensor, bigger pixels (2.4 μm) | 1/1.28" rectangular sensor, smaller pixels (~1.2 μm) | | Video Resolution & Frame Rate | 8K up to 50 fps | 8K up to 30 fps | | Bit Depth & Color Profile | 10-bit, D-Log M (better for grading) | 8-bit, ILog (not a true log profile) | | HDR | Wide dynamic range, no toggle needed | Active HDR at 5.7K | | Low Light Performance | SuperNight mode, natural results | PureVideo algorithm | | Build & Ruggedness | IP68, waterproof to 10m, no lens replacement | IP68, waterproof to 15m, user-replaceable lenses | | Screen Orientation | Horizontal | Vertical | | Additional Features | Standard 360 features | Instaframe, time shift, dash cam, starlapse, etc. |
The DJI Osmo 360 excels in sensor technology, video quality (bit depth and frame rate), and color grading capabilities, making it a better choice for professional use. The Insta360 X5 is more versatile underwater, offers more convenience via replaceable lenses, and includes additional shooting modes and features for content creators valuing ease of use and variety.
Gadgets such as the DJI Osmo 360 and the Insta360 X5, being compact and pocket-sized, fall under the category of cutting-edge technology. In comparison to smartphones, these 360 cameras offer superior features tailored for immersive virtual reality experiences. Additionally, with the Osmo 360's advanced sensor technology and the X5's user-replaceable lenses, both devices cater to different preferences among tech enthusiasts, whether that be for professional use or casual content creation.
