Insta360 X4 8K 360 Waterproof Action Camera (256GB) - Black

In this review the Insta360 X4 8K 360 Waterproof Action Camera is evaluated for creators who want a compact, all-in-one 360 solution with high-resolution capture and stable footage. The bottom line: it is ideal for travel photographers, action sports shooters, and social creators who value the ability to reframe shots after filming, because its 8K 360 capture and AI reframing tools make it easy to extract perfect angles without reshooting.

Key Features

• Bigger touchscreen: The 2.51in tempered glass display provides a clearer, brighter preview so composing and reviewing 360 clips is faster and more intuitive.
• 8K 360 and 72MP photos: Dual lenses record up to 8K 360 video and high-resolution stills, giving flexibility to reframe and crop without losing detail.
• FlowState Stabilization: Built-in stabilization and horizon lock produce smooth, level footage during motion, reducing the need for external gimbals.
• Longer battery life: The upgraded 2290mAh battery delivers around 70 minutes in 8K@30fps and fast charging gets to 80% in roughly 36 minutes for less downtime.
• Waterproof design: IPX8 durability lets the X4 be used natively underwater to 33 ft, so it handles wet conditions and watersports without extra housing.
• Invisible selfie stick and AI editing: The 360 lenses make a selfie stick disappear in post and the insta360 app offers AI reframing for quick, social-ready edits.

Who It's For

The X4 suits travel vloggers, action sports participants, and content creators who want to capture every direction and pick the best framing later using AI editing. Its rugged, pocket-sized body and waterproofing make it a practical on-the-go camera for snorkeling, biking, or crowded events.

Less suitable are users who need the longest possible battery life for multi-hour shoots without charging or those who prefer a traditional single-lens mirrorless camera for shallow depth-of-field portrait work; the X4 is optimized for 360 and versatile single-lens wide-angle recording rather than studio portraiture.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent image and video quality from 8K 360 capture and 72MP photo capability.
• Stable footage with FlowState Stabilization and 360 horizon lock for smooth motion shots.
• Convenient 2.51in tempered glass touchscreen for previewing and quick control.
• Rugged, IPX8 waterproof design and a larger 2290mAh battery for extended outings.

Cons

• Battery life is improved but still mixed in real-world use when shooting high-resolution 8K footage extensively.
• Editing and AI features work well but may require a modern phone or computer for fast processing.

Specifications

Video resolution	8K 360 / 4K single-lens
Photo resolution	Up to 72MP
Screen	2.51in tempered glass touchscreen
Battery	2290mAh, ~70 min at 8K@30fps, fast charge
Waterproof rating	IPX8, up to 33 ft
Stabilization	FlowState Stabilization with 360 Horizon Lock

Our Verdict

The Insta360 X4 with 256GB storage is a strong choice for creators who need flexible framing and high-resolution 360 footage; its combination of 8K capture, robust stabilization, and waterproofing offers excellent value for active creators and vloggers who edit with the companion app.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the X4 record as a normal action camera?
Yes - it can switch to single-lens mode to record 4K video at up to 30 fps or use MaxView 2.7K wide-angle mode for extremely wide shots.

How long does the battery last when shooting 8K?
The built-in 2290mAh battery provides about 70 minutes in 8K@30fps, and it supports fast charging to 80% in roughly 36 minutes at recommended power.

Is additional waterproof housing required?
No - the X4 is natively waterproof to 33 ft (IPX8), so it can be used in many water activities without extra housing.