Insta360 X4 8K 360 Waterproof Action Camera - Pocket 8K 360 Capture

Our review of the Insta360 X4 finds it best suited for content creators and action enthusiasts who want a compact, rugged camera that captures every angle and lets you reframe shots later. The single biggest reason to buy is its 8K 360 capture combined with easy AI reframing tools, which let a user produce cinematic, stabilised footage without complex camera rigs. The updated 2.51in tempered glass touchscreen and larger 2290mAh battery make it more practical for extended shoots, while the IPX8 waterproofing keeps it ready for water sports and outdoor conditions.

Key Features

• 8K 360 Video: Dual 360 lenses record high-resolution footage so you can choose the best angle after recording and extract wide, immersive clips.
• 2.51in Touchscreen: The larger, brighter tempered glass screen gives a clearer preview and simpler, on-camera control for framing and playback.
• FlowState Stabilization: Built-in stabilization and horizon lock deliver smooth, level video even during fast movement or complex camera motions.
• Longer Battery Life: The upgraded 2290mAh battery runs about 70 minutes in 8K@30fps mode and recharges quickly for less downtime on long shoots.
• Waterproof Design: Native IPX8 waterproofing to 33 ft means it is ready for swimming, snorkeling, and wet-weather shoots without extra housing.
• AI Editing & Reframing: Integrated AI tools in the companion app simplify editing and produce dynamic reframed clips for social platforms.

Who It's For

The X4 is ideal for vloggers, travel shooters, and action-sports enthusiasts who want a single, pocket-sized camera that can produce both immersive 360 clips and single-lens 4K footage. Its waterproof, rugged design and invisible selfie-stick capability make it a practical choice for outdoor recording, on-water activities, and POV-style creative work.

People who primarily need the absolute longest battery life, or those who prefer a camera with native interchangeable lenses and advanced manual controls, may want to consider other systems. Likewise, creators who demand only traditional single-lens cinema-style workflows could find the 360-first approach more than they need.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional image quality for a pocket 360 camera, including 8K 360 and up to 72MP photos.
• Strong stabilization and 360 horizon lock produce smooth, usable footage out of the camera.
• Improved touchscreen and faster charging paired with a larger battery make longer shoots practical.
• Waterproof to 33 ft and the invisible selfie-stick effect enable creative third-person perspectives without extra gear.

Cons

• AI editing and the mobile workflow are convenient but can feel limited for users who want deep, frame-by-frame manual editing tools.
• Battery life is improved but still requires planning for extended production days when shooting high-resolution 8K video.

Specifications

Video Modes	8K 360; 4K single-lens up to 30 fps; 2.7K MaxView
Photo Resolution	Up to 72MP
Screen	2.51in tempered glass touchscreen
Battery	2290mAh, ~70 min at 8K@30fps, 60 min full charge at 9V 2A
Stabilization	FlowState Stabilization with 360 Horizon Lock
Waterproofing	IPX8, native to 33 ft

Our Verdict

The Insta360 X4 is a versatile, pocket-sized 360 camera that delivers high-resolution 8K capture, strong stabilization, and practical battery life for most creators. It offers excellent value for users who want easy AI reframing, waterproof performance, and the creative freedom of 360 capture without carrying a lot of extra gear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the X4 be used underwater without a case?
The X4 is IPX8 rated and waterproof to 33 ft without additional housing for casual water activities and snorkeling.

How long does the battery last when shooting 8K?
The built-in 2290mAh battery runs about 70 minutes when recording 8K at 30 fps and charges to 80% faster with a 9V 2A charger.

Does it require a phone for AI reframing?
AI editing and reframing are handled primarily via the companion app, which simplifies selecting and exporting reframed clips to social formats.