Insta360 X4 vs Qoocam 3 Ultra side by side comparison (after Aug. 1 update)

Insta360 X4 vs Qoocam 3 Ultra

Which is better: the Insta360 X4 or the Qoocam 3 Ultra with 8k 10-bit HLG video and 14k HDR DNG photos?   I compared them for:

• detail: Insta360 X4 8k 30fps vs Ultra’s 8k with DR Boost ON and 10-bit HLG video,
• low light performance: Ultra’s 8k 24fps vs Insta360 X4 at 8k 24fps and 5.7k 24fps,
• 60fps video: Insta360 X4 and Ultra at 5.7k 60fps,
• slow motion video: X4 at 4k 100fps vs. Ultra at 4k 120fps
• photo quality: X4 72mp HDR vs. Ultra’s 96mp AEB mode
• battery life, and more.  I also tested the Qoocam 3 Ultra’s endurance to check for overheating.

Here’s my side-by-side comparison (presented in 4K 60fps):

Disclosure: I’ve been a beta tester for both Insta360 and Kandao for a long time and they both sent me their cameras for review.  I have affiliate links with both of them.  Neither company reviewed my video nor paid me any compensation for the video.

Insta360 X4 is the best selling 8K 360 camera.  But the Qoocam 3 Ultra has better specs, with a larger 1/1.7-inch sensor, larger 1/1.6 aperture, 10-bit Rec 2020 HLG video.  Nonetheless, I always take specs with a grain of salt because a lower-spec camera can sometimes be better.  Instead, I prefer to compare cameras side-by-side to provide a more objective comparison.

(added 10/09/2024)

Here’s a summary of the key points discussed in the video comparing the Insta360 X4 and QooCam 3 Ultra:

Photo Quality:

• Cam 3 Ultra offers superior detail and DNG format
• Insta360 X4 provides pleasing colors straight out of camera (JPEG only)

Video Quality:

• Cam 3 Ultra generally more detailed with less compression
• Insta360 X4 has punchier colors out of camera
• Cam 3 Ultra better in low light
• Insta360 X4 superior for slow-motion (4K 100fps)

Workflow:

• Insta360 X4 has better mobile workflow
• Desktop workflow similar for both
• Insta360 app offers more keyframing options and faster rendering

Special Features:

• Cam 3 Ultra: Built-in GPS, optional lens protector, internal storage
• Insta360 X4: Smoother stitching, longer battery life (75 vs 54 minutes)

Price: Both priced at $499 during pre-order (Cam 3 Ultra normally $599)

Decision Factors:

1. Prioritize photo quality: Choose Cam 3 Ultra
2. Prioritize video convenience and smooth stitching: Choose Insta360 X4
3. Need GPS or long recording times with external power: Choose Cam 3 Ultra
4. Require better mobile workflow or faster rendering: Choose Insta360 X4

Overall, the Cam 3 Ultra offers better image quality and more features, while the Insta360 X4 provides better convenience and workflow. The choice depends on the user’s specific needs and priorities.

WHERE TO BUY

Qoocam 3 Ultra is available now for preorder.  The retail price is $599 but during the preorder, you can get an early bird price of $499 (offer ends August 10, 2024).  Use Code: MICHAELTY with the links below:
– US & Canada：https://reurl.cc/E681gA
– EU：https://reurl.cc/WNav0k
– JP：https://reurl.cc/Yq70Yo