Capturing a 360-degree view of a subject can result in an amazing shot. One important consideration when choosing a 360-degree camera is the resolution and image quality. Another factor to keep in mind is the ease of use and the frames per second rate.
Hello everyone! My name is Lavelle and I am a professional photographer. Since 2009 I have been helping clients across the country capture and memorialize the best moments of their life.
In this article, I will help you understand what to look for in a 360-degree camera. I will also share with you the list of the best 360-degree cameras that I’ve come across and answer a few frequently asked questions.
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Key Takeaways
- Ensure that the camera you choose allows you to create exciting and engaging content.
- Look for a camera with good image and video resolution as this will allow your content to be interactive and impressive.
- Pay close attention to the frames per second rate for the 360 camera you choose as this specification directly impacts your video quality.
The price of a good 360 camera depends on the features. Some cameras offer more advanced while others may offer more safety features. Considering all things, a good price range may be between $300 and $800 for a good 360 camera.
Can 360-degree cameras be used in water?
Yes, most 360 cameras can be used in water. Most of them are great action cameras as well. A good 360 camera, in most cases, is a regular camera with waterproof housing.
Do 360-degree cameras lack quality imagery?
The most direct answer is no. However, image quality varies from camera to camera, depending on the specifications of each 360 camera. It is quite possible to get powerful and stunning images with the right 360 camera.
What to Look for in a 360 Camera for Photos
Here are some of the things I recommend that you look for in a 360 camera.
- Frames Per Second: One of the key components of a 360 camera is the frame per second (fps) count. You want to choose a camera that delivers at least 30 fps when recording video. This rate ensures that your video footage will be consistent and not too choppy.
- Battery Life: Another important component is the battery life. It’s quite inconvenient to be on a nice adventure and capture amazing video footage only to realize your battery is about to die. Look for a camera that gives you at least 60 minutes of battery life.
- High Image Resolution: When you are on an exciting photographic journey and you want to capture the moment clearly, you want a strong enough image resolution to capture the subject. Look for a minimum of 15 MP resolution from your 360-degree camera.
- Video Resolution: Likewise, the video resolution should be strong. You should look for a video resolution that is at least 4k or higher.
The Best 360 Cameras for Photos Reviewed
Here is my list of the options, along with a quick review of each item and my personal take.
1. Insta360 One RS 360 Edition (Best Overall)
- Frames per second: 30 fps
- Image resolution: 21MP
- Video resolution: 6K
- Stabilization: Flow state stabilization
The top choice is the Insta360 One RS Edition. This amazing and compact camera offers several excellent features and gives the user a full 360-degree immersive experience. It is well-designed and functions exceptionally well both for on-ground adventures and even in underwater conditions.
The image and video quality are excellent on this camera. The video resolution is stunning at 6k while the image resolution is very impressive, delivering 21 MP power.
It offers some excellent advanced features including excellent low-light shooting functions. Powered by dual 1-inch sensors, the image quality in low-light scenes is nothing short of amazing. The Flow State stabilization system is also noteworthy.
The best thing about Insta360 is its advanced imaging processing capability. It is remarkable at producing exceptionally high-quality images and videos. It has an artificial intelligence-powered processing system that delivers clear and crisp imagery.
The drawback of this camera is the price point. The 1-inch edition of this camera is the most expensive on this list and while it is a good value, it is still quite an investment.
My Verdict: This camera offers the most comprehensive package of options for a 360 camera. The resolution quality is superb and it is one of the most stable cameras in its class.
2. GoPro Max (Best Stabilization)
- Frames per second: 24 fps
- Image resolution: 16.6MP
- Video resolution: 6K
- Stabilization: Gimbal-like stabilization
The GoPro Camera Max is a remarkable camera that comes from the notable GoPro family. This brand is known for delivering exceptional 360-action options. The Max is certainly the benchmark for its 360-camera line.
It delivers good image quality with its 16.6MP and the 6K video resolution is also quite impressive. This camera has a lot of cutting-edge features, like the ability to use voice control in 10 different languages.
The stabilization system is Max’s hallmark feature. With its gimbal-like stability, it delivers incredible video footage, even underwater.
However, the file compression system can be improved. Because of the high-resolution quality of the camera, users often have to compress files to send them electronically, which becomes an issue because once the files are compressed, they lose quality.
My Verdict: This is an excellent choice if video quality is your main concern. The image and video quality is great on this camera and the footage is remarkably stable.
3. Ricoh Theta X 360 Degree Camera (Best Still Photography)
- Frames per second: 30 fps
- Image resolution: 60.5 MP (stills)
- Video resolution: 6k
- Stabilization: Basic
The next choice is the Ricoh Theta X 360 Degree camera. Content creators across the globe have come to love this 360 camera. It delivers exceptional still images and the video quality is superb as well.
With its large 2.2-inch screen and enhanced image stabilization, it is quite impressive option for a 360 camera. The image and video resolution are remarkable. It does offer some nice advanced features including VR action, wifi connectivity, and some nice additional software add-ons.
The best thing about this camera is its coloring and low-light shooting capabilities. It produces amazing still images, despite working in unfavorable lighting conditions. The camera effectively is shooting stills at an 11K rate, which is far better than any of its competitors.
The biggest concern I have is that you cannot use an external microphone with Ricoh Theta X 360. This causes an issue for content creators, especially vloggers who want to capture exceptional audio.
My Verdict: This camera lacks some of the bells and whistles of the other choices on my list but it is priced very moderately and it is a good option for most content creators.
4. Insta360 ONE RS Twin Edition (Best Beginners)
- Frames per second: 30 fps
- Image resolution: 48 MP
- Video resolution: 6K
- Stabilization: Flow State Stabilization
The Insta360 ONE RS Twin Edition is designed to appeal to anyone who wants a GoPro vibe with a good 360-degree feeling. It comes with two lens options, the 4K and the 360-degree lens. It also comes with some nice advanced features including AI editing.
The Insta360 ONE gives you two cameras in one, which is great for a beginning-level user. The 48 MP image and the 6K video resolution are both exceptional. This camera also comes with an invisible selfie stick which is proven to be a lot of fun for users.
It offers a user-friendly setup, so users of all levels can easily jump right in and begin using this camera. Insta360 ONE is super versatile and has the functionality of a much more expensive option.
The thing that I do not like about this camera is that when using it to upload to social media, it is harder than it should be. Unfortunately, you have to understand metatags to upload footage to platforms like YouTube, which makes it difficult for most users. Additionally, high-resolution files require desktop software to edit, which can be inconvenient and time-consuming.
My Verdict: This is a decent camera to purchase and it’s priced reasonably. There are several good features and it certainly can get the job done.
Final Thoughts
A good 360-degree camera is a great investment and offers the user an excellent experience. Content creators of all kinds will find these cameras to be very useful. Each of these camera options gives you an excellent 360-degree look at the world around you.
The bottom line is that if you want an impressive, 360-degree experience with your camera, then you have to pay close attention to the features and select the one that best suits your needs.
Have you used any of these cameras? Share your experiences in the comments below.
As always, have fun, enjoy the water, and enjoy capturing those unforgettable moments!
