Insta360 is back with a serious upgrade in the X5, a compact 8K 360 action camera that punches well above its weight. At $550, it carries over the flexibility of its predecessors while fine-tuning what truly matters: low-light performance, user-friendly shooting modes, and fast processing. The upgraded 1/1.28-inch sensor captures better detail with up to 13.5 stops of dynamic range—something you’ll appreciate during dusk adventures or dimly lit venues. Add in PureVideo mode with AI-powered noise reduction; the results are a night-and-day improvement. Literally.

While it does not aim to dethrone your smartphone in low-light photography, the X5’s improvements are tangible. InstaFrame is the unsung hero here—delivering a ready-to-share flat video and a full 360-degree capture in a single take, meaning no more late-night editing marathons. And thanks to a new 5nm AI chip, everything from in-device processing to smartphone transfers feels significantly zippier.

Design-wise, it looks nearly identical to the X4, but subtle tweaks like a new polygon mic panel, updated mount protection, and grippy textured sides offer practical benefits. The $660 Essentials Bundle adds must-haves like an extra battery, an invisible selfie stick, and lens guards. If you’re an action junkie, content creator, or just love being able to film everything at once, the X5 makes a compelling case as the most versatile camera in your kit—especially when light’s not on your side.

For more from Insta360, check out the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro.