DJI OSMO 360 vs INSTA360 X4: Evolution vs Revolution
How does DJI's newcomer compare to INSTA360's proven X4? We explore the differences in technology, features, and target audiences.
The INSTA360 X4 set the standard for accessible 8K 360° cameras. Now DJI enters the ring - but are they fighting the same battle?
Technical Specifications
DJI OSMO 360
- Sensors: Dual 1/1.1" square CMOS, 2.4μm pixels
- Max Panoramic Video: 8K up to 50fps; 6K up to 60fps; 4K 100fps
- Single‑Lens: Up to 5K/60; Ultra‑wide up to 4K/120
- Photo: 120MP 360° (16K)
- Storage: 128GB built‑in (105GB usable) + microSD
- Connectivity: Wi‑Fi 6.0, USB 3.1
- Price: $549.99 / $699.99 (combos)
INSTA360 X4
- Sensors: Dual 1/2" CMOS
- Max Resolution: 8K/30fps
- Photo: 18MP per lens
- Storage: MicroSD only
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 5, USB-C
- Price: $499
The Sensor Advantage
The most significant difference lies in sensor technology. The DJI OSMO 360's 1/1.1" sensors are substantially larger than the X4's 1/2" sensors.
What This Means in Practice:
- Low Light: OSMO 360 performs significantly better in dim conditions
- Dynamic Range: More detail retention in bright and dark areas
- Bokeh: Potential for shallow depth-of-field effects in 360° content
- Professional Appeal: Sensor size matters for serious videographers
User Experience Philosophy
INSTA360 X4: The Social Creator's Choice
The X4 was designed with content creators in mind:
- Intuitive mobile app with one-tap sharing
- AI-powered editing suggestions
- Extensive template library
- Perfect for TikTok, Instagram, YouTube Shorts
- Proven track record with regular software updates
DJI OSMO 360: The Professional's Tool
DJI appears to target a different market:
- Professional video production workflows
- Color grading and post-production flexibility
- Integration with existing DJI ecosystem
- Higher-end build quality and materials
- Focus on image quality over convenience
Software Maturity
This is where INSTA360 has a significant head start:
INSTA360's Advantages:
- 4+ years of 360° software development
- Mature mobile editing suite
- Large community of users and content
- Established partnerships with social platforms
DJI's Challenge:
- New to 360° content workflows
- Unproven mobile app ecosystem
- Learning curve for 360° post-production
Quick Comparison Table
| Spec | OSMO 360 | INSTA360 X4 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor size | Dual 1/1.1" | Dual 1/2" |
| Max panoramic video | 8K up to 50fps | 8K/30fps |
| Single‑lens | Up to 5K/60; Ultra‑wide up to 4K/120 | 4K/60 |
| Photo | 120MP 360° | 72MP combined |
| Storage | 128GB built‑in + microSD | microSD only |
| Connectivity | Wi‑Fi 6.0, USB 3.1 | Wi‑Fi 5, USB‑C |
| Price (USD) | $549.99 / $699.99 | $499 |
Price and Value Proposition
At an estimated $300+ price difference, these cameras target different markets:
- X4 ($499): Mass market appeal, accessible to content creators
- OSMO 360 ($549.99/$699.99): Professional‑leaning hardware with competitive combo pricing
Real-World Usage Scenarios
Choose the INSTA360 X4 for:
- Social media content creation
- Travel photography and videography
- First-time 360° camera buyers
- Quick, shareable content
- Budget-conscious creators
Choose the DJI OSMO 360 for:
- Professional video production
- Real estate and architectural photography
- Low-light and challenging shooting conditions
- Integration with existing DJI workflow
- Maximum image quality requirements
The Verdict
The INSTA360 X4 and DJI OSMO 360 represent different philosophies in 360° camera design. The X4 democratizes 360° content creation with its user-friendly approach and affordable pricing. The OSMO 360 appears to elevate 360° cameras into professional tool territory.
For most users, the X4 remains the better choice due to its proven software ecosystem, lower price, and mature feature set.
For professionals who prioritize image quality and don't mind paying premium prices for cutting-edge hardware, the OSMO 360's larger sensors could be game-changing.