Insta360 has expanded its 360-degree camera lineup once again. Just six months after launching the premium X5, the company has now introduced the Insta360 X4 Air, a smaller, lighter, and more affordable version of its flagship 360-degree action camera. With a starting price of $399.99, the X4 Air offers many of the same features found in the expensive $549.99 X5, making it an appealing choice for creators who want 8K recording without stretching their budget.
The new camera is now available globally through Insta360’s online store in Graphite Black and Arctic White. However, availability in the US and Canada is still marked as “coming soon.”
This detailed comparison of Insta360 X4 Air vs X5 breaks down all the major differences—performance, design, photo and video quality, battery life, and new features—to help buyers decide which model fits their needs.
A More Affordable 8K 360 Camera
The biggest highlight of the Insta360 X4 Air is that it delivers 8K 360-degree video at a significantly lower price. While the X5 offers advanced features and stronger video performance, the X4 Air still manages to retain the core 8K shooting capability that most creators look for.
Video Recording Capabilities
- 8K 360 video:
The X4 Air records 8K 360-degree footage at up to 30fps, similar to the previous X4. - 4K framerate limitations:
This is where the difference between the X4 Air and X5 becomes more noticeable.- The X5 and X4 can shoot 4K at up to 100fps for smooth slow-motion
- The X4 Air is limited to 4K at 50fps, cutting the slow-motion flexibility in half
- 1080p single-lens mode:
For the highest frame rates, users must switch to single-lens mode at 1080p, where the X4 Air pushes up to 120fps.
While it still offers strong performance, the X4 Air will appeal more to travel vloggers, cyclists, bikers, tourists, and casual content creators—not high-end cinematic shooters looking for maximum slow-motion capabilities.
Photo Quality: A Noticeable Difference
Still photography is another major category where the Insta360 X4 Air vs X5 comparison becomes clear.
- X4 Air photo resolution: 29MP
- X4 and X5 resolution: 72MP
This means the X5 is the better option for creators who need high-resolution still images for professional use, large prints, or commercial projects.
Sensor Size: Better Than X4, But Smaller Than X5
Insta360 has equipped the X4 Air with two 1/1.8-inch sensors, which are slightly larger than the 1/2-inch sensors on the older X4. This change alone improves image clarity, color accuracy, and overall dynamic range.
However, the X5 still leads the lineup with its larger 1/1.28-inch sensors, giving it a clearer advantage in low-light environments, night scenes, and indoor shooting.
If capturing detail in dark scenes is a priority, the X5 remains the better investment.
Design, Size & Weight: The X4 Air Advantage
The main attraction of the X4 Air is its portability.
Dimensions
- Height: 113 mm (10mm shorter than X4 and X5)
- Weight: 165g (30g lighter than both X4 and X5)
Even though the differences on paper look small, the reduced weight makes a noticeable impact during long travel days, biking, trekking, or everyday casual use.
Creators who carry their cameras for hours will appreciate this practical improvement.
Battery Life: Slightly Lower, But Still Strong
The X4 Air has a 2,010mAh battery, which is a reduction from the older models but still delivers good performance.
- Battery life:
Up to 88 minutes while recording 8K at 30fps
This places the X4 Air between the X4 and X5 in terms of endurance. For most users, especially those shooting short clips or travel vlogs, this battery life is more than enough.
Replaceable Lenses and Lens Guards
One of the best features introduced with the Insta360 X5 was its easy, user-replaceable lenses. Insta360 has wisely carried this feature into the X4 Air.
- Lenses can be swapped in seconds
- Users can attach removable lens guards, first seen on the X4
- No need to send the camera to a service center for lens damage
This upgrade increases the X4 Air’s durability and makes it safer to use in rugged outdoor conditions.
Waterproof and Hands-Free Recording Features
The Insta360 X4 Air is built for adventure. Like the X5, it is:
- Waterproof up to 49 feet (15 meters) without needing a diving case
- Compatible with the full set of Insta360 accessories
- Equipped with hands-free controls such as:
- Gesture control
- Voice commands
- Selfie-stick twisting gestures for quick recording
These features especially appeal to travelers, vloggers, and sports enthusiasts who need quick control while on the move.
Final Verdict: Insta360 X4 Air vs X5 – Which One Should You Buy?
The Insta360 X4 Air is a well-balanced, lightweight, and highly capable 360-degree camera that delivers 8K recording at a budget-friendly price. It’s perfect for beginners, casual creators, and travelers who want a premium experience without paying the premium price.
Choose X4 Air if you want:
Lighter weight and smaller body
Cheaper price
Good 8K performance
Replaceable lenses
Travel-friendly design
Choose X5 if you need:
Best low-light performance
Higher 4K frame rates
72MP photos
Professional-level videos
Both cameras have their strengths—but for most users looking to start with 360-degree content creation, the Insta360 X4 Air is an excellent and more accessible choice.
