Qoocam 3 got a firmware update that added GPS metadata via the phone app and “improved image quality.” Does the GPS work? What were the improvements? Here is an updated comparison between Qoocam 3 (reviewed here), Insta360 X3 (reviewed here) and GoPro Max (reviewed here).
GPS
As of Qoocam 3 app version 1.0.1.0, you can add GPS metadata to your Qoocam 3 photos as long as the Qoocam 3 was connected to the app while you were shooting. This is useful for uploading photos into Google Maps for Street View. The app says that it also adds GPS to videos. However, when I tested the video with GoThru Street Builder, Street Builder could not find the GPS data.
Improved image quality
Sharpening: One of the most common complaints about the Qoocam 3 was that it was oversharpened. With firmware 1.0.24.4, the sharpening has been toned down so that it now looks more balanced.
In terms of actual detail, when the three cameras are on a tripod the Max is the most detailed toward the front of the lens, and the X3 and Qoocam 3 are fairly similar (slightly more detail for Qoocam 3). You can see in the cropped views below that fine details such as the caloric information for the menu are much clearer on the Max.
However, when the cameras are held horizantally on a selfie stick, then X3 is most detailed, Qoocam 3 is slightly less detailed than X3, and Max is much less detailed than Qoocam 3 or X3. This is most noticeable with the stripes on the shirt or the text on the menu at the back, which are most discernible on the X3, a bit less clear on the Qoocam 3, and least clear on the GoPro Max.
White balance: In firmware 1.0.23, the white balance was somewhat bluish. With the update, the white balance may have become more accurate although still more blue / cool compared to Insta360 X3 or GoPro Max. It is arguably more neutral.
The Qoocam 3 colors and contrast appear much flatter than either Insta360 X3 or GoPro Max. This makes the video appear less punchy, but makes it easier for video editors to grade the footage to their liking.
Exposure: In the previous firmware, the Qoocam 3 would often overexpose by about half a stop. Now, the exposure is more or less similar to that of the X3 and GoPro Max.
Reviewing 360 videos
Another significant improvement is that you can now look around 360 videos during review. Previously, when reviewing 360 videos on the Qoocam 3, you could only see the front view. Now you can swipe around the screen to rotate the 360 video.
Conclusion; Where to buy?
The new firmware update seems to address the oversharpening and appears to also improve the accuracy of both the white balance and the exposure, making the Qoocam 3, which is already the most affordable 360 camera in its class, an even more attractive option. Qoocam 3 is available for $349 on Amazon or direct from Kandao. You can check out my review here.
the results are so minimal in difference i dont think any consumer will notice.
Its really sad that these companies never actually “upgrade” the cameras but keep using the same old cheap sensors and lenses in all makes and models.
the X3 has a “72/mb” panorama, yes in SIZE but not in QUALITY. its all an upscale gimmick.
Better results using topaz gigapixel
They are not actually giving us more details that matter or more clarity.
Too many years these cheaps camera sensors have been used, its just like dash cams, they use 1-2 manufacturers for the sensors, all the same bootup sounds and quality.
Its really sad to be fooled by “upgrades”
Hi John. I understand your frustration. Good question about the 72mp mode. I’ll post about it and let you decide.
Also it is could be buy at aliexpress) big thanks. But for me is huge in field shot with go pro, you have physical buttons (not to change modes on screen) in real life it is more comfortable to change picture or video record , change mode some time ferry uncomfortable screen button also if you put screen protector so for me it will be more in qoocam or insta . I like more nice lens cap in one r(rs) not comfortable so there it is more interesting how they make I don’t know how it is easy to close/open but one rs it is not also with lens sticky…
Hi Andreev. I’m glad you can order it from Russia. Yes, physical buttons are more comfortable.
They are good, I like how they make app and desktop app for pc/Mac so they are interesting) and his they quick make firmware update) glad to see in this year cameras come in calm and new and make it really good compete
It would be great if the major 360 & action cam makers would make a line of dashcams. Basically a stripped down version of their current cams. All it needs is the FOV, resolution, 60-120fps, gps, wifi, removable storage. Maybe a couple other features.
I’m just amazed at the fact it’s not overheating. I’ve lost sections of irreplaceable events due to overheating and am seriously considering getting the qoocam 3 just for that.
Thanks again Mic for all the great reviews. We all appreciate the effort.
Jon Nelson
Thanks Jon! I have yet to see it overheat in ordinary use, so if you want to avoid overheating, this would be my best suggestion.
I’m just amazed at the fact it’s not overheating. I’ve lost sections of irreplaceable events due to overheating and am seriously considering getting the qoocam 3 just for that.
Thanks again Mic for all the great reviews. We all appreciate the effort.
Jon Nelson
Any plans for a Qoocam 3 Super / Enterprise / Pro ?
With 10 Bit ProRes recording?
There will be a Qoocam Ultra with 8K resolution. They haven’t said much about the specs, but I’m hoping that it will have 10-bit video like Qoocam 8K. As for prores recording, I think it’s unlikely. It would need to record two 4k+ prores streams at the same time, which is a tall order.