Insta360Actively cultivating the 360-degree panoramic camera marketMany years later, DJI finally launchedOsmo 360, its first panoramic sports camera, boasting native support for 8K 50fps 10-bit Log video recording, and significant advancements in night shooting and convenience.
High-definition new photosensitive element, night shooting significantly upgraded
The Osmo 360 features a newly customized 1/1.1-inch square sensor. Compared to the typical rectangular CMOS sensor on the market, this design allows the camera to effectively utilize 25% more imaging area to record images, enabling it to record up to 8K 50fps in 10-bit D-LogM format. It also boasts a wider dynamic range and higher light tolerance, while nighttime recording also features more stable detail preservation and noise control.
Compact, lightweight and with built-in storage, it is more flexible to carry and use
While slightly wider and thicker than the Insta360 X360, the Osmo 5 is only 83mm tall, shorter than the Insta360 X5's 124.5mm. It also weighs approximately 9% less, at just 183 grams, making it less shaky when worn on a helmet or mounted on a vehicle mount. The Osmo 360 also features 105GB of built-in storage and supports expansion with a micro SD card, providing enhanced storage flexibility and backup security.
The battery is compatible with the Osmo Action 4 Pro / 5 Pro, supporting up to 120 minutes of 8K 30fps video recording, which can be extended to 180 minutes with the use of an external extension battery stick.
Video recording and stabilization are strong, but low-light stabilization is slightly lacking.
DJI has also created a new "Boost Video" mode for 360-degree panoramic videos. It can record 4K 120fps ultra-wide-angle videos (170-degree field of view) in single-lens mode, providing GoPro-like action recording effects. It also supports "HorizonSteady" horizontal correction and RockSteady digital stabilization technologies. In daylight or under stable lighting, the footage is smooth and natural, with seamless stitching.
In addition, the Osmo 360 supports dual-channel recording with the DJI Mic 2/Mic Mini, and can also connect to commercially available headphones such as Samsung's Galaxy Buds Pro 2 via Bluetooth (but only for one-way audio).
Editing software may be a shortcoming
In terms of software, DJI has launched the new DJI Studio editing platform, which allows users to adjust perspectives, set animations, and output flat or 360 panoramic videos. It also supports importing and editing into Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve.
However, the DJI Studio editing platform's functions seem to be still very basic, and its functional completeness is still not as good as Insta360 Studio. For users who want to create further, they may need to wait for subsequent versions to be updated with more functions.
A challenger with competitive pricing
Overall, although the Osmo 360 is DJI's first 360-degree panoramic camera, it's nearly on par with the Insta360 X5 in terms of image quality, low-light performance, storage flexibility, and recording capabilities, and even offers a better design. Its only significant shortcoming lies in its software functionality, but this is expected to be improved in subsequent updates.
The Osmo 360 is currently available in Europe and Asia Pacific, with both a standard and free-shooting package available. Prices are as follows:
• Standard set (including batteries, protective case, lens cap): NT$13980, €480
• Free Shooting Kit (two extra batteries, quick-release bracket, 1.2m invisible selfie stick): NT$17800, €630
