DJI Osmo 360 vs Insta360 X5: Which 360 Camera Should You Choose in 2025?

DJI Osmo 360 vs Insta360 X5: Which 360 Camera Should You Choose in 2025?

DJI Osmo 360 vs Insta360 X5: Which 360 Camera Should You Choose in 2025?

August 6, 2025

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360-degree cameras have become must-haves for creators, travelers, and action sports fans. In 2025, two standout choices are the DJI Osmo 360 and the Insta360 X5. Both offer powerful features, 8K video, and pro-level stabilization. But which one fits your needs better? This side-by-side comparison breaks it down in plain English.

Specs at a Glance

Feature DJI Osmo 360 Insta360 X5
Max Video Quality 8K 30fps (native), up to 8K 50fps (cropped) 8K 30fps
Sensor Size Dual 1/1.1" HDR CMOS (square) Dual 1/1.28" sensors
Photo Resolution 120MP (panoramic), 30MP (HDR mode) 72MP
Stabilization RockSteady 3.0 + HorizonSteady FlowState
Color Profile 10-bit D-Log M PureVideo + AI
Touchscreen 2.0” OLED Touchscreen Yes
Audio Support Dual DJI Mic support (no receiver needed) Built-in + Insta Mic
Battery Life Up to 180 min (with extension rod) Up to 208 min (5.7K24 Endurance)
Price $549.99 $549.99

Video & Image Quality

Both cameras shoot native 8K video, but their strengths differ. The Osmo 360 boasts 120MP panoramic photo resolution and a 10-bit D-Log M color profile, enabling vibrant, editable footage with wide dynamic range. Ideal for creators who want maximum flexibility in post-production.

The Insta360 X5, on the other hand, excels in low-light conditions. With dual 1/1.28" sensors and PureVideo AI mode, it delivers cleaner, sharper footage when lighting isn't ideal — great for night scenes, indoor content, or golden hour shots.

Ease of Use and Smart Features

The Osmo 360 offers gesture and voice control, simplifying hands-free shooting. It also supports dual DJI Mic wireless audio, with direct connection — no receiver needed — ideal for vloggers.

Insta360 shines in software. Its FlowState stabilization is trusted by action shooters, and the Insta360 app offers intuitive tools like reframing, auto-tracking, and quick social edits — features DJI’s new app ecosystem may still be catching up on.

Both cameras support the “invisible selfie stick” effect, creating drone-like footage with ease.

Battery Life and Build

Battery life is a critical factor, and here’s how they compare:

DJI Osmo 360 offers up to 100 minutes of 8K/30fps recording on its 1,950mAh internal battery, and up to 180 minutes with the optional Battery Extension Rod — a big plus for longer shoots.

Insta360 X5 performs even better under certain modes:

  • 93 mins (8K30fps)

  • 115 mins (8K24fps Endurance Mode)

  • 135 mins (5.7K30fps)

  • 208 mins (5.7K24fps Endurance Mode)

    (Lab-tested results)

In terms of design, both cameras are rugged and compact. DJI claims improved heat management and up to 10 meters waterproofing (without case), though the fisheye lens design may limit long-term underwater use.

Price and Value

The Osmo 360 launched at $549.99, the same starting price as the Insta360 X5.

While DJI offers strong value in terms of hardware, native 10-bit color, and battery flexibility, Insta360 has the advantage of a mature ecosystem — with accessories, third-party support, and advanced software tools already well-established.

If you’re already using Insta360 gear, the X5 might be the smoother upgrade path.

Pros & Cons Summary

DJI Osmo 360 Pros:

  • Higher photo resolution (120MP)
  • 10-bit D-Log M for professional color grading
  • Voice & gesture control
  • Long battery life with extension rod
  • Native DJI Mic support (no receiver needed)

DJI Osmo 360 Cons:

  • Ecosystem and accessories still developing

Insta360 X5 Pros:

  • Superior low-light performance
  • Powerful mobile app & AI editing tools
  • FlowState stabilization
  • Longer battery life in Endurance Modes
  • Wide accessory ecosystem

Insta360 X5 Cons:

  • Native image color may require AI tuning in daylight

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Buy?

Choose the DJI Osmo 360 if you:

  • Prioritize ultra-high photo resolution and bright scene quality
  • Want extended battery life for long shoots
  • Prefer integrated gesture or voice controls
  • Use DJI audio gear

Choose the Insta360 X5 if you:

  • Often shoot in low-light or mixed lighting conditions
  • Need best-in-class mobile editing tools
  • Already use Insta360 gear and accessories

Both are excellent 360 cameras — it all comes down to your shooting style and post-production needs.

For another opinion, see this 360Rumors comparison article.

For a deeper community discussion, check out this Reddit thread on DJI Osmo 360 specs and release.

FAQs

Is the DJI Osmo 360 waterproof?

Yes, officially rated up to 10 meters without a case. However, due to the fisheye lens design, long underwater use is not recommended.

Can I use Insta360 accessories with DJI Osmo 360?

No. Each brand uses its own mounting and software systems.

What SD card do I need for 8K recording?

Use a UHS-I U3 microSD card, ideally 256GB or more for smooth recording — or leverage Osmo 360's built-in 105GB storage with optional expansion.

Looking for more camera tips or comparisons? Explore more on Maectech Blog!

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