When Insta360 released the One X two years ago, the reaction was mixed. Some didn't think 360° video hadn't caught on yet, and for the most part, outside of the VR space, those critics were right. It, however, hasn't stopped Insta360 from gaining popularity among consumers, and its One X2 aims to simplify 360° even more.
Out of the box, the One X2 has similar specs to the original but offers some slick improvements including a touch display, IPX8 waterproofing, Bluetooth support, voice control, quad-mics, and a larger 1630mAh battery that said to offer around 80 minutes of shooting time.
The purpose of 360° video is to allow you to shoot from all directions and either choose the preferred angle in post for a "flat" timeline or use them all for an immersive 360° experience. The One X2 stitches its 5.7K video automatically inside the camera and shows you exactly what you're getting from its new external display. The display acts as a touchscreen where you can navigate settings and switch between shooting modes.
In terms of video formats, this new version echos the One X offerings:
- 5.7K video at 30fps, 25fps, 24fps
- 4K at 50fps, 30fps
- 3K at 100fps
Video is captured using the H.265 codec on a wide 7.2mm (35mm equivalent) lens with an aperture of F2.0. The One X2 also offers an ISO range of 100-3200 with an auto mode for when you need it most. As previously mentioned, the camera is waterproof down to 33 feet (10 meters) without a case, and if you need some more latitude, the optional Dive Case bumps it to 147 feet (45 meters).
The One X2 features four shooting modes, 360°, Steady Cam, InstaPano, and MultiView, which can be easily selected via touchscreen.
- 360° mode: Captures up to 5.7K using both lenses
- Steady Cam mode: Provides a standard video capture mode with a max resolution of 2560×1440 (50/30fps), 1920×1440 (50/30fps), or 1920×1080 (50/30fps)
- InstaPano: Allows you to capture panoramas
- MultiView: Designed for vlogging, displays two angles at once and includes face tracking
One X2Credit: Insta360
Speaking of post, did you know Insta360 has a direct plugin for Final Cut Pro X, making it even easier to work with the footage? Don't have FCP? No worries, you can use the Insta360 app or Insta360 Studio to edit your footage.
Additionally, Insta360 has updated its ShotLabs, included a PureShot mode for low lighting situations, an AquaVision option that helps to balance colors underwater, and the One X2 can even live stream using two cameras. Cool.
The One X2 is available now for $429.
