Insta360 X5 vs X4: Is the 8K Upgrade Worth ¥1,200?

The Insta360 X5 enters as the successor to the wildly popular X4, bringing dual 1/1.7” sensors, 8K 360° video, and AI-powered editing. But at ¥3,299 vs the X4’s ¥2,099, the ¥1,200 premium asks a real question: is the X5 worth the upgrade?

Key Differences

Feature	Insta360 X5	Insta360 X4
Sensors	Dual 1/1.7” CMOS	Dual 1/2” CMOS
Max 360 Video	8K 30fps	5.7K 30fps
Max Reframed	4K 60fps	4K 30fps (approximation)
Single Lens	5.7K 30fps	4K 30fps
Photo Resolution	72MP (stitched)	72MP (36.8MP effective)
Low Light	PureVideo algorithm	Standard processing
Stabilization	FlowState 2.0 (horizon lock)	FlowState (horizon lock)
Waterproof	10m (bare)	10m (bare)
Battery	1600mAh	1800mAh
AI Editing	Me Mode 2.0	Me Mode
Weight	185g	203g
Price	¥3,299 (~$458)	¥2,099 (~$292)

When to Buy the X5

You reframe frequently: The X5’s 8K capture gives noticeably sharper reframed output. The X4’s 5.7K is good for social media but shows pixelation when you significant reframe for 4K delivery.

You shoot in low light: The larger sensors and PureVideo algorithm reduce noise significantly. Night city shots that look grainy on the X4 are usable on the X5.

You want the latest AI: Me Mode 2.0 is genuinely better at selecting angles automatically. The X4’s Me Mode is good; the X5’s is great.

When the X4 is the Better Buy

You’re budget-conscious: ¥2,099 is an incredible deal for a camera that’s still excellent. The X4 produces fantastic footage that’s “good enough” for 99% of social media use.

You shoot in good light: In daylight conditions, the X5’s image quality advantage is marginal. The X4 still delivers sharp, well-exposed 360° footage.

You need longer battery: The X4 has a 200mAh larger battery (1800mAh vs 1600mAh), giving 5-10 minutes more recording time per charge.

Your main export is social media: For Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts (1080p-1440p), the X4’s reframed output is more than adequate. The X5’s 8K advantage only matters for 4K delivery with heavy reframing.

The Verdict: The X5 is a meaningful upgrade for power users who reframe heavily, shoot in mixed light, and want the best possible 360° footage. But for most users, the X4 at ¥2,099 remains the better value — delivering 85% of the X5’s capability at 64% of the price. Save ¥1,200 and spend it on accessories or a second battery.