The Insta360 X5 is the 360° camera that redefines the rules of the game. With its ability to film in 8K at 360° , it offers a breathtaking level of detail, whether capturing grandiose landscapes or intense moments of action. Thanks to its new 1/1.28'' sensors , combined with a triple AI chip , the X5 guarantees unprecedented performance, especially in low light with the PureVideo mode. Day or night, the image remains clear, sharp and vibrant.
What makes it truly unique? Its InstaFrame mode : the X5 can simultaneously record a flat video ready to share and a 360° video to edit later. You film first, then you frame. Perfect for capturing the moment without worrying about the angle.
And that's not all: the X5 features an improved windshield , 180 minutes of battery life , waterproofing up to 15 meters without a housing , and replaceable lenses with an automatic detection system. In short, it's the most durable and versatile 360° camera Insta360 has ever made.
Whether you're a vlogger, biker, traveler, or athlete, the Insta360 X5 is your best friend for creating breathtaking, immersive videos. A true revolution for content creators.
Before you head out to film the world in 360°, there are a few simple steps you can take to get the most out of your Insta360 X5 .
🛠 1. Update your firmware and the Insta360 app. When you first use your camera, connect it to the Insta360 app (available on iOS and Android) and check for updates. These updates often add key features and fix bugs. It's best to start on the right foot!
⚙️ 2. Activate your camera The first time you log into the app, you'll need to activate your X5. This is quick and mandatory to start filming. You'll be guided step by step on the screen.
💾 3. Choose a suitable microSD card The Insta360 X5 requires high-performance microSD cards (UHS-I V30 minimum, exFAT format). Choose a quality card (SanDisk Extreme, Lexar Pro) of at least 128 GB to handle large 8K files without any problems.
🧲 4. Customize your favorite buttons You can configure the quick buttons (Quick Button and Lens Button) in the settings to access your favorite modes with one click: Me mode, PureVideo, HDR, etc. A real time saver in the field.
🧼 5. Clean the lenses and remove the protective stickers It seems obvious, but many people forget: remove the protective stickers, wipe the lenses with a microfiber cloth, and check for fingerprints. A dirty lens can ruin a perfect shot.
🎒 6. Install the right accessories Depending on your use (travel, sports, immersion), remember to attach lens protectors (standard or premium), the invisible pole or the diving housing if you go underwater. The X5 automatically detects if the protectors are in place and adjusts the stitching algorithm.
Once you've completed these steps, you're ready to capture the world from every angle 🎥
This is THE strength of the Insta360 X5 : its ability to capture everything around you in 360°, with stunning image quality. Here are the settings I recommend for each situation.
Resolution : 8K at 30 fps
Mode : Standard Video
Color profile : Standard
Sharpness : Medium or Low (depending on your post-production style)
Bitrate : High for maximum quality
📌 Tip : 8K is ideal for bright, open shots: hiking, surfing, the beach, or cityscapes during the day. Let the AI handle the exposure unless you want a very specific look.
Resolution : 5.7K at 30 fps
Mode : Active HDR enabled
Color profile : Standard
Sharpness : Low
Bitrate : High or Standard (if you want to save space)
📌 Tip : Active HDR improves transitions between dark and light areas. Perfect for forests, rooms with windows, sunsets, etc. It doesn't work in 8K, hence the drop to 5.7K.
Mode : PureVideo (automatic or manual)
Resolution : 8K at 30 fps
Color profile : Standard
Sharpness : Low
Bitrate : High
📌 Tip : PureVideo uses AI to reduce digital noise. You can film the night city, a party, or starry skyscapes without any annoying grain. A must-have for nighttime vloggers.
Resolution : 5.7K at 60 fps or 4K at 100/120 fps
Audio : Wind noise reduction – Loud
Sharpness : Medium
Stabilization : FlowState enabled (default)
📌 Tip : To slow down an action properly, film at 4K120fps and export at 30fps for 4x slow motion. Ideal for skateboarding, mountain biking, trail running, or even paragliding.
Mode : 360° Photo
Resolution : 72MP PureShot
Format : JPG (fast) or DNG (if you want to edit in Lightroom)
📌 Tip : Take your photos in good lighting. Try low-angle shots or shots with reflections for dramatic Instagram content.
The Insta360 X5 isn't just about 360°. It also becomes a high-performance single-lens action camera , ideal for POVs, vlogs, or sports videos without having to crop anything. Here are the key modes to know:
Resolution : 4K at 60 fps
Color profile : Standard
Sharpness : Medium
Bitrate : High
Stabilization : Automatic FlowState
📌 Tip : Mount the X5 on your chest, helmet, or handlebars. You get a smooth, immersive experience without having to crop a 360° video. Perfect for rides, trails, or urban tours.
Mode : FreeFrame Video
FOV : MaxView (≈170°)
Resolution : 4K at 30 fps
Ratio : adaptive (modifiable in post-production)
Stabilization : FlowState enabled
📌 Tip : Unlike a GoPro, you can crop later without any major loss. MaxView gives you a very wide effect, ideal for landscape shots or outdoor sports.
Resolution : 4K at 30 fps or 2.7K at 120 fps
Angle : 170° fixed centered on you
Invisible selfie stick : mandatory
📌 Tip : Me Mode is perfect for vlogging, skiing, or when you want the camera to stay focused on you , without the pole getting in the way. In 2.7K at 120 fps, you can even create awesome slow-motion videos ready to publish.
A great little detail: you can touch the X5's screen to switch the view from you to what's in front of you. A simple tap goes from "selfie" to "filming in front of you," which is super handy in vlog mode.
In short, the Insta360 X5 's single-lens mode gives you the freedom to shoot like a traditional action camera... but better. Less processing, more efficiency.
Want your Insta360 X5 videos to look professional, cinematic, smooth, and stylish? Here are a series of simple (but effective) tips to take your videos to the next level.
Your X5 shoots with two lenses. The final image is stitched together automatically, but if you want to avoid visible stitching:
Never place an important subject to the sides of the camera (right in line with the lenses)
Keep a distance of at least 80 cm between the camera and the subject
Avoid excessively abrupt rotational movements (stabilization may be difficult to follow)
📌 Tip : If you want to film at arm's length or underwater, enable Underwater Housing mode in the shortcuts. The algorithm automatically adjusts the stitching for underwater shots.
A common pitfall is having one half of the image overexposed and the other half too dark. To avoid this:
Use automatic exposure by default unless you're going for a very specific look
If a lens is close to your torso (e.g. chest mount), switch to balanced exposure
Place the light or sun facing one side of the camera , not directly on a lens
The Insta360 X5 features 4 microphones and a multi-layer windscreen . For top-notch sound:
Activates wind noise reduction (strong) outdoors
Use Voice Enhancement mode for vlogs
For quiet scenes (live music, ambience), switch to stereo audio
📌 Bonus : If you want to go even further, connect a Bluetooth microphone (like those from Sena or Cardo for motorcycles) or opt for the new Mic Air from Insta360.
This is one of the X5's most powerful effects: making the selfie stick disappear , as if you were being filmed by a drone. For a cinematic effect:
Keep the pole straight, in line with the camera's vertical axis
Don't angle it too far forward or backward, you lose the effect.
Try the 3-meter pole for solo “drone-like” shots
Clean the lenses regularly with a microfiber cloth
Replace lenses if needed thanks to the magnetic replacement system (very practical and unique to the X5)
Use the Stitching calibration tool built into the settings after a lens replacement
These little details make all the difference. The Insta360 X5 is powerful, but like any creative tool, it's best when you understand it well 💡
Want to know which mode to use depending on what you're filming ? Here's a quick guide to the best settings for every situation with your Insta360 X5 . Whether you're on the road, underwater, or on the slopes, you'll know what to choose 👇
Mode : Bullet Time (5.7K120fps) for epic slow-mo
Me Mode : Perfect for filming yourself with an invisible selfie stick
TimeShift : speed up your walks and place transitions
Voice Enhancement : for clear vlogs even in the city
Stabilization : FlowState permanently activated
Bonus accessory : invisible pole + mini tripod for fixed shots
📌 Tip : Combine multiple locations filmed with the same angle for a stylish travel montage.
Mode : Road Mode (self-recording + plate erasure)
Quality : 5.7K30fps (Active HDR to handle changing light)
Audio : strong wind reduction + headphones connected via Bluetooth (Sena, Cardo, etc.)
Control : Gesture control or Mini Remote
Useful mountings : U-Bolt mount, Chest Strap, Helmet Mount
📌 Tip : Enable GPS stats via Garmin or the Insta360 app to add speed, route, etc.
Mode : POV (4K60fps in single-lens) or 360° in 5.7K60fps
FOV : MaxView for very wide shots without distortion
Stabilization : FlowState enabled + Motion ND in the app for cinematic blur
Accessories : POV Helmet Mount, Chest Mount or Third Person Handlebar Mount
📌 Bonus : the remote GPS preview lets you see in real time what the camera is filming, even when mounted on your wheel!
Essential accessory : Invisible diving case (up to 60 m)
Mode : Dive Case enabled + 5.7K30fps for optimal stitching
Tip : Keep the pole aligned with the camera for the drone effect
After diving : leave to dry for 24 hours to recover a 100% operational microphone
Colors : Enables AquaVision 2.0 in the Insta360 app
📌 Pro tip : be careful, the lens protectors are not waterproof – remove them before immersion.
Mode : Me Mode (to analyze your movements and stay in the frame)
Stabilization : FlowState + Horizon Lock 360° for ultra-stable shots even when turning
Magic Shortcut : Twist to Shoot – twist the pole twice to start recording
Useful bindings : ski pole mount + reinforced selfie stick action
📌 Tip : Film yourself from a reverse angle for a “cinema game” look.
Mode : 360° with MultiView (up to 4 angles in split screen)
Mountings : Double or triple suction cup, selfie stick glued to the windshield or hood
Export : in 4K ProRes for a clean rendering even after post-production
Editing : Adds GTA or speed ramping effects for a gaming or cinematic look
📌 Creative idea : mix exterior and interior angles for an immersive car ad-style sequence.
Whatever your project, the Insta360 X5 offers incredible versatility. You shoot, you live, you crop later 💥
With the Insta360 X5 , editing becomes a real playground. Thanks to the tools provided by Insta360, you can easily transform your raw footage into professional videos, whether on your phone or your computer. Here's how to do it right 👇
The Insta360 app (iOS/Android) is a gem. Even if you're not a professional editor, you can:
Realign your angles with your finger or your gyroscope
Use AI templates for stylish auto-editing
Apply Motion ND, special effects or dynamic transitions
Export in one click with or without cropping
🎯 Useful tips:
Use Keyframes to direct the camera however you want in a 360° sequence
Enable Dewarp to remove the fisheye effect
Choose your angle (Selfie View or Forward View) for instant export without editing
If you want more control and maximum quality, download Insta360 Studio :
Multi-track editing on a clear timeline
Advanced reframing with smooth transitions
Export to ProRes or H.265 to preserve every pixel
Adding text, music, fades, effects
Stitching AI to fix joining lines
📌 You can also import your cloud files from Insta360+ , without having to download them.
Already working on Premiere Pro? Perfect: use the Insta360 Reframe plugin to:
Directly import .insv files without converting them
Work on your project without losing quality
Avoid unnecessary multiple exports
➡️ Simply click on "Premiere Plug-in" during Studio installation to add it.
With the Insta360+ subscription, you benefit from cloud storage, remote editing, and export even from your phone without taking up space:
Automatic backup via Wi-Fi
360° sharing via link without an app required
Cloud editing and export, even if your PC is slow
Export possible while you do something else
🛠️ To keep the best quality, follow these settings:
→ In Insta360 Studio:
FlowState Stabilization: Enabled
Color Plus : disabled if you have turned on Standard/Vivid
Remove Grain : Enabled for dark scenes
AquaVision 2.0 : for underwater images
→ Formats by platform:
Platform | Resolution | Bitrate | Codec | Format |
1080x1350 | 13-15 Mbps | H.264 | .mp4 | |
YouTube | 4K (3840x2160) | 65-80 Mbps | H.264/H.265 | .mp4 |
TikTok | 1080x1920 | 13-15 Mbps | H.264 | .mp4 |
4K | 65-80 Mbps | H.264 | .mp4 |
🎯 Tip : Always keep your raw files in high quality until the final export step.
With these tools and settings, you can turn any video into premium content ready to hit the social media scene.
You've got the camera, but to truly unlock its potential, the right accessories make all the difference . Here are the essentials (and favorites) to get the most out of your Insta360 X5 , whether you're a vlogger, athlete, or explorer.
Insta360's signature effect: the invisible pole , which magically disappears from the frame. Perfect for drone-free aerial shots or immersive selfies without ever spoiling the shot.
📌 Also available in a 3m version (Extended Edition) for spectacular drone-style angles.
Even though the X5 is waterproof to 15m, the Dive Case allows you to go down to 60m with optimized underwater stitching . It is completely invisible in the image when properly aligned with the pole.
🎯 Enables Diving Box mode in shortcuts for automatic distortion correction.
The Insta360 X5 introduces a unique system: the lenses are replaceable via a dedicated kit. This is extremely useful if you scratch one of them.
Add to that the standard lens protectors (included) or the Premium (tempered glass) for maximum resistance.
📌 The camera automatically detects when a protector is installed and adjusts the stitching!
For athletes and riders, here is the basics:
U-Bolt Mount : for handlebars/motorcycle bars
Chest Strap : for a stabilized immersive view
Helmet Mount Kit : for a dynamic subjective view
All-weather USB Cover : for charging while filming in the rain
Mini remote control : compact, clip-on, perfect for changing views remotely or triggering recording
GPS Preview Remote : to control the camera + display live stats (speed, distance, etc.)
If you want to boost your audio for interviews, vlogging, or riding, consider:
Mic Air : the official Insta360 wireless microphone
Compatibility with motorcycle intercoms (Sena, Cardo, etc.)
Quick Reader : to transfer your files directly to your phone without draining the battery
Insta360+ : cloud storage + remote editing and export + discount on your next purchases and accessories
With these accessories, your Insta360 X5 becomes a true all-terrain content creation station .
A high-performance camera also requires a well-maintained camera. And given the power (and price) of the Insta360 X5 , it's best to take care of it! Here are some simple steps to keep it in tip-top shape, day after day:
Lenses are at the heart of image quality. A tiny grain of sand or a fingerprint and your entire video is blurry.
Always use a clean, dry microfiber cloth
Avoid abrasive tissues or fabrics
Cleans before and after each use
If dust or sand: air blower before rubbing
📌 Tip : Remember to use the cleaning stickers provided with the X5 for the windscreen microphone.
The X5's lenses are replaceable (big plus). If you change a lens:
Use the provided tool to unscrew and remove cleanly
Install the new lens without forcing
Run Stitching Calibration in the settings to correct any offsets
🎯 Do this indoors, in a dry place and at room temperature .
Do not leave the X5 in direct sunlight or in a closed car
Avoid recharging it in a humid place
Use a 9V/3A PD charger for fast charging (80% in about 20 min)
Don't film at full load in 8K mode for 1 hour non-stop in the tropics: it heats up!
The X5 is waterproof up to 15 meters without accessories, but:
Check that the battery hatch and USB port are properly closed (no orange marking visible)
Rinse with fresh water after use at sea
Let it dry for 24 hours if the microphone seems muffled after a dive
❌ Do not change lenses in a humid or dusty environment.
Uses a minimum UHS-I V30 microSD (exFAT, 1TB max)
Remember to format the card regularly in the camera
Always keep 1-2 GB free to avoid recording crashes
Enable auto-save in Insta360+ if you want to avoid drama
With a little care, your Insta360 X5 will follow you everywhere, from snow-capped peaks to the depths of the sea 🌊
Are you hesitating between the latest Insta360 X5 and its little sister, the Insta360 X4 ? Here's a clear comparison to help you see things more clearly 👇
X5 : Larger sensors (1/1.28”) + 3-chip AI image processing = Sharper, more dynamic, better 8K video in low light (PureVideo)
X4 : also in 8K30fps, but with less detail in complex conditions
📌 Verdict: The X4 is already excellent, but the X5 takes it up a notch visually , especially at night.
X5 : AI-powered PureVideo mode with noise reduction, wide dynamic range, clear image even in the evening
X4 : OK in low light, but not as clean
📌 If you often shoot at sunset, in the evening or indoors, the X5 is unbeatable .
X5 : new multi-layer mesh windscreen , 4 microphones + advanced audio processing (voice, stereo, 360° audio)
X4 : good microphone too, but more sensitive to wind and less precise
📌 Whether vlogging or with strong wind: the X5 captures better, cleaner footage, even without accessories.
X5 :
InstaFrame mode (films flat + 360° video simultaneously)
Auto-detection of lens protections
Integrated AI stabilization + Horizon Lock
X4 :
Super stabilization (FlowState), Horizon Lock, improved Bullet Time, but no InstaFrame dual recording
📌 The X5 goes further in creative multitasking , ideal for solo creators.
X4 : 135 min in 5.7K30 (big improvement vs X3)
X5 : up to 180 min depending on the modes
📌 Both hold up very well, but the X5 gains in endurance , especially in mixed use.
X5 only : You can change the lenses yourself and recalibrate the stitching in the settings.
X4 : fixed lenses
📌 A huge advantage for the X5 in terms of durability .
Insta360 X4 : Excellent value for money for an ambitious creator
Insta360 X5 : A premium investment for demanding creators
Do you want to film without constraints, day or night, with cinematic rendering and powerful creative tools? ➡️ The X5 is clearly the most complete .
You get it: the Insta360 X5 isn't just a 360° camera, it's a true creative machine for anyone who wants to tell, film, and share stories without limits. Whether you're on a motorcycle, on top of a volcano, in the streets of a big city, or underwater at a depth of 15 meters, it's always ready.
✅ You film → you frame later✅ You share in one click → with or without editing✅ You choose your format → video, photo, slow motion, time-lapse, InstaFrame...✅ You evolve with it → thanks to its replaceable lenses, its long-lasting battery and its ultra-complete app
So, what are you waiting for? Take the plunge! Raise your pole, activate your favorite mode, and tell the world in 360° . And most importantly… share your creations with the @insta360 community – we can't wait to see what you come up with 🔥
