If you own an Insta360 X3, ONE X2, or even the older ONE X, you might be wondering:
"Is it worth upgrading to the Insta360 X5?"
Short answer: Yes — if you want a leap in 360 capture performance that has never been previously experienced.
In this article, we'll walk you through why the X5 is a massive upgrade (especially if you’re coming from an X3 or earlier model) and who exactly should be thinking seriously about pulling the trigger on an Insta360 X5.
The Leap From X3 to X5: Not Just Spec Sheet Inflation
First, let's be real.
When brands release yearly upgrades, they often make it sound like the latest product is life-changing when it’s really a marginal update.
This is not one of those cases.
If you’re upgrading from an X3 (or anything earlier), the X5 gives you a real, tangible jump in what you can capture and how your final footage looks and feels.
Key upgrades you’ll actually notice:
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8K 360 Video Capture:
From 5.7K to 8K — this is not a gimmick. 360 video at 8K means your reframed shots will look far sharper on social media, YouTube, and even VR headsets. Your audience will notice the crispness immediately.
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Removable Lenses:
Lens damage used to mean a full camera replacement or an expensive repair. Now? You can just swap lenses yourself. Huge for bikers, travelers, and action shooters.
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New Wind Guard:
Improved audio quality without needing external mics in many cases — a real bonus for moto vloggers, FPV pilots, and casual creators alike.
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Faster Charging:
Spend less time tethered to a wall - you can get your battery from 0 - 80% in 20 minutes with the X5 (tested by Insta360, real word performance may differ). For creators on the move, this is a highly underrated quality-of-life upgrade.
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Better Image Processing:
The X5’s improved internal processing (thanks to two Image Processing chips and an AI chip) leads to better low-light performance and richer colors. Your footage looks more "cinematic" right out of the camera — with less editing needed.
But What If You Use an X4 and Want to Upgrade?
The Insta360 X4 is a beast in its own right, especially with its 8K 360 video and 5.7K60 upgrades.
That said, the PureVideo function (lowlight recording), removable lens and brilliantly performing wind guard that virtually negates the need for an external mic (you should still get a mic as its excellent but not perfect) are worth the upgrade if you have the cash.
That aside, some people just want the latest and greatest and if you have the cash, why not?
Who Should Seriously Upgrade to the X5?
- X3, ONE X2, and ONE X owners who want a major quality leap
- Content creators who reframe 360 footage into 2D exports and want crisper shots
- Moto vloggers and bikers who need removable lenses and better wind noise reduction
- Travel vloggers and adventurers needing lighter, more durable gear
- Filmmakers who want 8K source material for more flexible editing and cropping
- Business users (real estate, tourism, VR tours) who need next-gen quality to stay competitive
And honestly? If you’ve been thinking about getting into 360 capture but haven’t pulled the trigger yet, the X5 is the current flagship 360 camera, but if you're just starting out you can consider the X3
Common Questions People Are Asking Right Now
Should I upgrade to an Insta360 X5 from my X3?
Yes, if you care about video sharpness, better sound, and long-term value.
Who should buy the Insta360 X5?
X3, ONE X2, and ONE X owners. Also serious content creators and bikers who punish their gear.
Is the Insta360 X5 better than the X4?
Yes, the PureVideo function (lowlight recording), removable lens and brilliantly performing wind guard that virtually negates the need for an external mic (you should still get a mic as its excellent but not perfect) are worth the upgrade if you have the cash.
Why Buy Your Insta360 X5 From 180by2?
- Official Insta360 Partner: Trusted by the brand.
- Fast Delivery: No waiting for international shipping.
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Support and Service in South Africa: Local help if you ever need repairs or replacements.
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Bundles and Discounts: Save money with accessory kits you actually need.
Ready to step up your 360 game?
Order your Insta360 X5 from 180by2 here
Final Thoughts
If you’re coming from an X3, ONE X2, or older, the X5 is not just an evolution — it's a revolution.
Sharper footage, easier repairs, better audio, faster charging — all built into one compact, creator-friendly machine.
Don't miss out while everyone else is still asking if they should upgrade.