Insta360 X4 Review: Epic 8K Underwater!

[@BrentDurand]

What do you want to see in the next Insta360 X4 video?!!

[@MaximumDiver]

I'm curious to see the Hyperlapse process from start to finish (how to pick a good subject and how to film it). Thanks again!

[@russellrheath]

I’d love to see some settings instructions for the X4 specific to diving! Thanks for the great videos and instructions.

[@BrentDurand]

@@russellrheath Great idea. I'll take a look at putting that together, thanks!

[@yomango35]

More videos using the under water case with the X4 and show us the footage .When I use the under water case , I didn't get a good result regarding the quality of the video on my Sony TV compare to the Gopro 11 .

[@BrentDurand]

@@yomango35 Thanks! More videos to come soon on the channel.

[@Danysmolk]

Thank you so much for this amazing review, not only covered aspects of the camara and the app, but also some diving tips to get the best experience possible. nice work

[@BrentDurand]

Thanks for the kind words! 🤙

[@denistereshchenko3828]

You have great shots, I review them several times. Make more releases! Good luck!

[@BrentDurand]

Thank you! 🤙

[@MaximumDiver]

Thanks a lot Brent! I was reaaaally curious to see legit underwater shots from a pro diver. :) We still see the underwater housing seams, but its less noticeable than the previous version!

[@BrentDurand]

You’re welcome as always, thanks! I can’t claim to be any sort of pro diver though 😜🤙

[@Crmeyes]

Spectacular video!

[@BrentDurand]

Thanks!!

[@wesb9546]

Brent! Whaddup buddy!! I just ordered one of these things and decided to do some quick research to figure out whether the underwater case was worth it... low and behold, the algorithm presented me with your awesome review :) Hope you're doing well, keep being awesome

[@BrentDurand]

Thanks Wes! Hope you’ve got big adventures planned with it 👊🤙

[@sabrinaf5344]

Thanks so much for the great video. You mentioned good conditions for great shots. What's your opinion on dark water in rather dark water (only snorkeling though). I'll be swimming with Orcas in November in Norway, so there won't be sunlight. Do you think the camera would still be a good choice? 😊

[@BrentDurand]

You're welcome. Insta360 really recommends using the camera in sunny conditions. It can get pretty dark during Orca season in Norway from what I've seen so I would recommend the Ace Pro or similar.

[@BrentDives]

Sweet!! Thanks for the review, this is super helpful coming from another diver 👏

[@BrentDurand]

Thanks Brent! I'm looking forward to getting it back in the water in better conditions and putting a really wild (but still classy) edit together!

[@brentwashburn737]

Should we plan an all Brent dive-trip?

[@BrentDurand]

@@brentwashburn737 Three Brent divers... sounds epic to me! 😆

[@BrentDives]

@@brentwashburn737 Haha, yes! And we'll call it "Brent's Dive"

[@Elsalsero87]

​. I'd say Get Brent like get bent hahahaha

[@sinetwo]

Graat review Brent. I can't help but notice the sun hitting the water is incredibly blown out compared to the rest of the footage. Is that because it evaluates the entire scene for exposure, and relatively, the blown out area is small?

[@BrentDurand]

Thanks, and great observation. You’re describing it perfectly. I’ve noticed the same in many divers’ X3 footage. Generally you want the sun behind the camera when shooting ambient light, then you can always adjust the framing to avoid the blown out sun area. That said, you do need to be careful of the housing direction in relation to the sun (refraction/reflection of the dome) and the stitching seam, so there are quite a few factors to consider when thinking about how to hold the selfie stick for the composition you have in mind.

[@allaboutlifegc]

Ace Pro vs X4 please!

[@BrentDurand]

Ok! Another vote for a comparison of these two cameras. I'm starting to have no choice but to make a video! If you haven't seen it yet, here's my full Ace Pro review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gIa2gWqlnpqsptksi=83TClPs3KhkbRcLo

[@sarahxok]

+ 1 to this! I’m curious if the x4 has the same ai color grading for underwater that the ace pro does?

[@BrentDurand]

@@sarahxok It's a bit different but still works well and can be adjusted using Aquavision 2.0 in the Insta360 app 😎

[@AmbientWalking]

Wow! Looks amazing!!!

[@BrentDurand]

It’s a fun camera!

[@ElHuron-z3t]

Nice Video, thanks! Do you think the x4 is good enough for deeper dives? I understand, there are better solutions in low light but I would love to have a all in one cam. And these 360 degree clips are pretty cool and the only use case except from diving for me 😅

[@BrentDurand]

Thanks. I can't give an honest opinion yet since I haven't used it in deeper dive depths. I would say the Ace Pro does better in darker, deeper conditions though. But you don't have the 360 degree views like you mention. One note is that all footage looks better on small screens, so if you're shooting for social media you can get away with a lot more noise, smoothing, etc. in dark shots. Decisions, decisions.

[@StevenScheck]

Great video. Just bought the housing and will test it out this Saturday in Miami Beach. My question is do you just hold the selfie stick underwater or do you have a wrist strap? Also, are you putting it back in the bag underwater when you aren't using it? Thanks for your help.

[@BrentDurand]

Nice! If I'm hand-holding I do use a wrist strap attached to a d-ring that threads in using this adapter (amazon): amzn.to/4clhcs7 And if I'm holding it and careful I just hold the housing, but if I'm clipping it to by BCD I ALWAYS put it in the bag because it (and any acrylic dome) WILL scratch. Hope that helps. Have fun!

[@SupermanDee]

debating between this vs Ace Pro. i'm also a scuba/freediver and i plan to use it for freediving training etc or whenever i have the chance to go scuba diving. which one would you recommend?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi, both cameras do different things. I would say that if you want the best image quality and/or to use a tray setup with light, then go Ace Pro, but if you want that 3rd person or drone perspective, then go for the X4. Hope that helps a bit! If you haven't seen it yet, here's my detailed Ace Pro review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gIa2gWqlnpqsptksi=BjlJ2IUzP68ESXpi

[@ericagor327]

Well done for a very informative tutorial. 👏 Wanted to ask if the AquaVision 2.0 is available to use for the Insta360 X3?

[@BrentDurand]

Aquavision 2.0 is available in the Insta360 app, and the X3 has the same file formats as the X4, so I believe so but am not 100% certain.

[@ericagor327]

@@BrentDurand Thanks! Stay safe out there!

[@TXDIVER-ru5ku]

Hey Brent, love the videos and all the advice. we just got back from Indonesia. I got my wife the insta 360 pro to replace her GoPro which keep over heating and shutting down. Love the video quality but the camera strugglesd to focus up close on small and macro subjects. Have you noticed any related issues or have any advice? Maybe backscatter will come out with a macro lens that will fit the dive housing....

[@BrentDurand]

Thanks! The Ace Pro actually has a longer minimum focus distance than GoPro due to the larger sensor size (1.3 ft / 0.4 m), so you won't have a sharp image within that distance. No idea if anyone will make a macro lens, whether a Backscatter FLIP MacroMate or even a 67mm adapter that allows you to use a wide variety of diopters. For now I would stick to subjects farther than 1.3 feet!

[@miguelbennasarpavon8863]

Buenas tardes Brent, me surge una duda. El palo selfie de insta360 no se oxidará al sumergirlo en el mar? Muchas gracias

[@bcb7655]

Thank you for your presentation Brent! You mentioned the diving case scratches easily. Would you recommend it as a protection for the camera? I'm hesitating between this cam and a more traditional action cam for caving applications. My impression would be a 360° cam would be better for low-light environment.

[@BrentDurand]

A 360 cam and standard action camera have very different applications. The 360 cam will give you the 3rd person or drone view, which could be epic while cave diving, however the standard action camera would do better in lower light and be less likely to incur scratches on the housing port material. If you haven't seen it yet, here's my review of the Insta360 Ace Pro: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gIa2gWqlnpqsptksi=1__XkCSxkqrpefnq

[@berangereduplessis7222]

Hello Brent :) Thanks for all your work. Have you ever used this camera in a blur et without light water ? Because all the tests I see are done one clear and sunny waters. It would be interesting to see what it looks like. A bientôt :) A scuba diver from North of France.

[@BrentDurand]

Hi - All the footage in my video was shot with about 4 meters visibility. That said, the X4 will do best in the clearer waters and sunny skies.

[@mrbardo]

I'm seriously tempted to buy an X4. What would be really useful is if people like myself could download the Insta360 Studio software and experiment with some footage before buying. Would you be willing to upload a 360 clip recorded by the X4 which someone like myself could download and try in the Insta360 software?

[@BrentDurand]

Great idea. Have you checked if Insta360 has clips you can experiment with? I just don't have the free time to set up a webpage, upload a clip, etc. at the moment (this is all a hobby behind work, family, etc.).

[@Si1ence44]

Is the selfie stick the 114cm one that you are using. I can find anywhere that talks about the selfie sticks if ok in water? Is one your using aftermarket? Does it float? Wrist strap? Ok to use insta360 one in the water?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi, yes, I'm using the 114cm selfie stick: store.insta360.com/product/selfie_stick?c=2141&from=accessory?INRVP3L It's great in the water and sinks. You can add a wrist strap via this loop accessory that screws into the 1/4"-20 thread: amzn.to/3Wiibo9

[@CreteSwim]

Note that the instructions for the X3 Dive Case recommend rinsing it by submerging it in fresh water for 1 hour to completely dissolve salt. Two drawbacks of the invisible dive case (compared to the non-invisible case) are (1) the added buoyancy (due to the larger lens bubbles) which stresses selfie sticks, and (2) the stitching above water is worse (even when correctly choosing the above water option in the software).

[@BrentDurand]

Thanks for these points, Paul. The added buoyancy is great since it’s a bit more neutral in the water (still slightly negative).

[@CreteSwim]

@@BrentDurand Good to know. The X3 is a lighter camera than the X4 and it floats (in the Pacific) when it's in the invisible dive case. Also, I love how you made a category of "Adventure Diving" on your channel. I did the same when I wrote my guidebook on open water swimming around the Greek island of Crete. I defined "adventure swimming" as the exploration of coastlines as an open water swimmer. In my swims, I also have a need for good above-water stitching to show what's above me. For example, swimming through interesting caves: kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5jaaKiLjLaCg68si=XNXAOhg2BvFmWOzD&t=100

[@stephanwilliot2324]

Really on the fence between the Ace Pro and X4.

[@BrentDurand]

@@stephanwilliot2324 They do different things. I'm going to try and put together a video showing the differences just as soon as I can get some fresh footage with both cameras. If you haven't seen it, here's my full review of the Ace Pro: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gIa2gWqlnpqsptksi=JHOcgjImPXPGF-ty

[@stephanwilliot2324]

@@BrentDurand yes I saw that video. It was excellent 👌🏻. Might watch it again 😅. That would be great if you did a sort of comparison to see pros and cons. I know they do different things but I this quite an investment so want to make sure I get the one the suits my needs. Keep up the great content.

[@monicapop303]

Hello Brent, question: did u have any issue after this video w the water prof case camera? I’m looking to buy it from the link u place it.. is that STILL best place to buy it? So many mix messages about it.. worried many vendors w many copies out there and afraid of getting a bad one

[@BrentDurand]

Hi Monica, the link I've pasted is for the Insta360 housing sold directly by Insta360, so yes, this is the absolute best housing. Your concern over knock-off housings is valid!

[@6kvideo185]

Good morning, Thank you for this presentation. Have you used the x4 and the invisible dive case beyond 25 meters? With the previous version, the x3 model and the invisible dive case, the pressure pushes the buttons of the dive case and the camera turns off.

[@BrentDurand]

Hi - I have not used it to that depth yet. Which button is being pressed? The metal buttons allow water (and pressure) to pass underneath (unless the pin design is different on the X3, which I doubt). The case is hard plastic so I can't imagine that squeezing to press the front buttons (and I haven't tested what they do when pressed in Dive Case Mode). If the metal buttons are sticky they won't retract all the way after pressing and could create the issue? This comes back to proper housing maintenance.

[@6kvideo185]

@@BrentDurand Thank you for that answer. I had the problem on the first dive so it's not a maintenance problem. I think it's the top button on the side that causes the problem with it turning off below 25 meters. Above, everything works normally.

[@BrentDurand]

@@6kvideo185 That is definitely weird. I'll ask some other divers if they've got the same problem and see if they have any insights.

Hi Brent, great video! One thing I dont understand is your tip towards the end. Why would you go down with the quality and the fps when you go deeper? Would it not make sense to still use the full power of the camera even if it is darker?

[@BrentDurand]

Thanks! There are three variables to exposure: ISO, shutter speed, and aperture. Aperture is generally wide open on action cameras as it gets darker, so that leaves ISO and shutter speed to adjust to make the exposure brighter in dark conditions. If you use a faster fps you will need a faster frame rate (less light in camera), meaning increasing the ISO and creating more noise in the footage. By using a slower fps and resulting shutter speed you reduce the amount you need to push the ISO, delivering better image quality. I explain more in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iXSZoGNmnZpmjtEsi=kiJ0zU5UWo2NtCfI

@@BrentDurand Thank you, I'll use the insta360 X3 during a lake dive with low light next week so this tip was very helpfull. I also gave you a sub ;)

[@BrentDurand]

@ Excellent! Have fun and thanks for the sub 👊

[@awesomeandperfect1719]

Amazing tips thanks! Could you compare the footage with the ace pro next please?

[@BrentDurand]

You're welcome. And yes, this is a popular request. Will try to put a video together once I have fresh footage from both cameras. If you haven't seen it yet, here's my full Ace Pro review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gIa2gWqlnpqsptksi=AsHDMV7mdoANTo-E

[@awesomeandperfect1719]

@@BrentDurand thanks a lot!! just bought the x4 for a maldives uni field trip, wanted to see how they compare even tho im expecting the ace pro to be better at capturing stuff underwater. I just hope the difference isn’t massive. Will be waiting for that then :)

[@cathaltwomey]

Hi Brent, great video , very informative , quick question , any issues with the camera in the dive case overheating while shooting 8K ,as there is no place for the heat to go on a dive below 10m?

[@BrentDurand]

I haven’t yet, however 1) I only shoot shot clips at a time and don’t let the camera record minutes at a time, and 2) only used it in 52F water temp.

[@scubainstructor]

Thx for this amazing tutorial. 👌

[@BrentDurand]

You're welcome! I hope it's helpful 🤙

[@scubainstructor]

@@BrentDurand still thinking but would be interesting during diving course

[@DarylSawatzky]

How do the selfie sticks themselves hold up to salt water? Do they drain well? I have the gold colored stick, would that react with the salt water? I have the X4 and the case and can't wait for our next SCUBA trip.

[@BrentDurand]

Like all gear, they’ll do best if you soak in fresh water post-dive. Draining can be slow and unfortunately I have no ide about the gold colored stick. Hope that helps!

[@paulcooke3463]

Hi Brent, thabks for the video. With old go pros ive dived with a red filter, does the x4 not need this?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi and you're welcome! There isn't a filter available for the X4 but you also don't really need it. The color is pretty good out of camera and you can precisely edit it using AquaVision 2.0, designed specifically to make underwater color correction easy.

[@MaximumDiver]

Little question for you Brent: what's your system to keep the camera attached to your BCD? Do you use a clip that you screw at the bottom of the stick or you have another way to keep it secured? Thanks in advance!

[@BrentDurand]

I don't clip this to my BCD, but you could use this 1 1/4" D-Ring (amzn.to/3wljQPz) or put a bolt snap or carabiner through the loops of the bag/case for the housing and clip that off (ensuring the camera won't slide out of the bag).

[@MaximumDiver]

@@BrentDurand Ah nice! Thanks a lot!

[@mactravel]

Big help mate thanks for the video. Quick question, do you use the standard colour profile or vivid?

[@BrentDurand]

I’ve been using standard assuming I can bump the color while editing (including. switching to vivid while using the app).

[@kleinandi]

Hi Thx for the Video.Did you know why Screenshots with the Software from a underwater Film are so blurred?

[@BrentDurand]

Thanks. This is because when shooting video, especially underwater where it's dark, uses a slow shutter speed. You don't readily notice the resulting motion blur in video but will see it in the still frames.

[@asierfilms]

Thanks !! Do you think is better the insta360 1 inch for more light underwater? And the other question: do you think I can go 40 Mts deep with this 30 mts housing? Thanks !

[@BrentDurand]

Hi, are you talking about the Insta360 Ace Pro? If so, yes, this will perform better in low light conditions. I do not recommend taking the housing beyond the manufacturer's maximum depth rating.

[@asierfilms]

@@BrentDurand hi!, no, the Insta360 RS 1 inch 🫡

[@BrentDurand]

@@asierfilms Ah. I haven't used it so can't make the comparison unfortunately.

[@asierfilms]

@@BrentDurand oh ok thanks!

[@stillsandvideo]

Thanks for the informative review. What memory card do you use for 8k?

[@BrentDurand]

I used Insta360's Micro SDXC U3 card (512GB). Worked perfectly. store.insta360.com/product/memory_card?INRVP3L

[@MaximumDiver]

Oh another question : is it safe to jump in the water with the underwater housing? Because I want to do a crazy shot of me back flipping or just jumping in the water at the start of my scuba dive and I was wondering if it would break the seal or not. Thanks again!

[@BrentDurand]

I wouldn't. The four clips aren't very strong. That said, the camera shouldn't be damaged if they do break though since it's waterproof. But no reason to risk damaging the housing. You could use just the camera itself and then rinse in fresh water right away, but you would want it to dry fully before locking it in the housing to dive (wet = condensation).

[@MaximumDiver]

@@BrentDurand aaaah ok I understand. Thanks!

[@ansonyik]

hi brent, may i know how would you choose between the AcePro and X4? do you have a preference when you go underwater?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi - It really depends on how you plan to use the camera underwater. My opinion is that they excel in different areas - the Ace Pro for general underwater video + low light, and the X4 for 3rd person and drone perspectives. Both have stunning image quality. If you haven't seen it yet, here's my full Ace Pro review for underwater: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gIa2gWqlnpqsptksi=83TClPs3KhkbRcLo Note I may do a comparison of the X4 and Ace Pro in the near future.

[@jejendnd1092]

Hello! Would you recommend to record in 8K 30fps or 5.7k 60fps for just snorkeling and occasionally free diving just to get close?

[@BrentDurand]

I would go 8k30 if you have sunny skies and nice water conditions, however go 5.7k 60fps if you'd like the possibility of slow motion. For darker conditions, Insta360 recommends 5k30 underwater.

[@tendongraph]

*NOOB ENTERiNg* how come everything looks “fish bowled” does it remain like that? Kinda feels like I’m watchin a video thru a peep hole in a door. I’m debating on this camera or the ace pro but I’m hoping the 360 camera would be nice to catch the reactions of the kids filming

[@BrentDurand]

That fisheye barrel distortion can be controlled in post-production with the Insta360 app. You may want more or less of the effect depending on how far the subject is from the camera (e.g. more fisheye effect when close and less when subject is farther).

[@pete1225]

Oxnard 805 baby!! :p that was the Channel Islands right ?

[@BrentDurand]

It was actually Monterey. I'm jonesing for a channel islands trip right now though!

[@Praetoreon]

Not a huge fan of the glare from the dive case as well as the new "premium" lens guards.. They really need to make it fully waterproof. The basic, non glass, lens guards seem to do the job.

[@BrentDurand]

Fair enough. The glare is going to be hit and miss depend on sun angle, etc. Note that the X4 is fully waterproof! Insta360 recommends the dive case though because the refraction of light in the water makes stitching much difficult. Traditional u/w cameras use dome ports over the lens and the lens focuses on a virtual image instead of the physical object... for the same reason.

[@arminleitner1097]

I wonder how it would look like, if you tie the x4 with let’s say a 10 inch weak rope to your tank with a little float on it?

[@BrentDurand]

You could, however it would Bob back and forth and spin quite a bit. It would be better to extend the selfie stick very long and hold it above you. With the Invisible selfie stick stitching you won’t see it!

[@LilyCardiology]

A water park trip please!

[@BrentDurand]

Oh man, I haven't been to a water park since I was little. I bet other folks on KZbin have used the camera there. I did see one clip of a slide in one on Insta360's key promo videos.

[@Yggdrasil42]

Thanks Brent, is there a collapsible selfie stick that fits the dive case? Or can the 'standard' stick deal with submersion?

[@BrentDurand]

Yes, the 114cm invisible selfie stick is perfect: Insta360 Invisible Selfie Stick: store.insta360.com/product/selfie_stick?c=2141&from=accessory?INRVP3L Insta360 Ace Pro: www.insta360.com/sal/ace-pro?INRVP3L

[@bobhandal]

Thanks, Q= With the higher resolution, higher heat, did you get fogging fast? how bad is it? did you remove the lens covers when you put into housing?

[@BrentDurand]

I used two anti-fog inserts and had zero condensation/fogging. Note that I was diving in California (not a super humid climate) and the water was 51-57F. Yes, you need to remove the lens covers before putting the camera in the housing. This delivers best image quality.

[@siamosht]

Thanks for the review, can you please do a comparison with Ace Pro?

[@BrentDurand]

You're welcome. Without a review I would say that both cameras serve different purposes. You could test the 4K Single Lens Mode on the X4 against the Ace Pro, but the best camera will really depend on what you're trying to achieve with your footage.

[@RogerEriksson]

@@BrentDurand i would like to see such a comparison

[@BrentDurand]

@@RogerEriksson Noted! I'm taking both on an upcoming trip and will see if I can put a video together.

[@sherylkingstone]

Yeah I’m torn between the acepro vs x4. I think I want acepro for the bigger sensor and low light capabilities. Does that sound right? Or is x4 ok in low light

[@BrentDurand]

@@sherylkingstone The Ace Pro is the way to go for lower light conditions underwater (or cloudy day, etc.). The X4 excels in great lighting conditions. Ace Pro: www.insta360.com/sal/ace-pro?INRVP3L I've also written info about best mounts for action cams like the Ace Pro (e.g. selfie stick vs tray/handle system): tutorials.brentdurand.com/gear-guide-for-small-underwater-cameras/ Hope that helps!

[@mateoskapul3873]

How close can you get with the camera underwater, while using a housing, to subjects and still keep them in focus?

[@BrentDurand]

The advertised minimum focus distance is 2ft (0.6m). I'm not sure if that changes inside the invisible dive case but I would say that you likely don't want to go too much closer for static shots of small subjects, but if you go within that range as part of a shot and then pull back or cut to another clip/frame, then the viewer will never notice. For example, my clips from several inches away when turning the camera on and off would be fine in a quick edit meant to be viewed on social media (mobile phone screens). Hope that helps

[@RogerEriksson]

Help, im going diving and will buy a camera for scubadiving, dont know if I should get the new Insta360x4 or Insta360 ace pro, will be diving in the philippines at 15-30m, at least one dive will be a night dive - I saw a comparison video between the x3 and ace pro where the ace pro comes out as the winner with regards to picture quality....does the new x4 change that?

[@BrentDurand]

They are meant to do different things. The X4 is amazing for these 3rd party perspectives and also has amazing 8k image quality in nice dive conditions. But for standard underwater video you likely want the Ace Pro with its excellent image quality, plus dive housing and even video lights. Ace Pro: www.insta360.com/sal/ace-pro?INRVP3L Essential Ace Pro Accessories: tutorials.brentdurand.com/gear-guide-for-small-underwater-cameras/

[@MT_20_24]

Nice footage 😎 what island are you in ?

[@BrentDurand]

No island - this is Monterey, California ✌️

[@MT_20_24]

Wow,im in The bay area thanks for the info 😎

[@BrentDurand]

@@MT_20_24 Oh wow, definitely dive Monterey if you can! I shot all this around the famous Breakwater.

[@beckyl711]

Is it easy to crop to 16x9 for TikTok? Does the quality decrease?

[@BrentDurand]

Very easy - they have all the popular aspect ratios built in. Quality will not decrease since you have the pixels to begin with (e.g. a 9:16 crop for social media fits within 4k pixels).

[@111nyg]

Does oem and original underwater case behave similarly?

[@BrentDurand]

I would recommend using the OEM Insta360 Invisible Dive Case as I'm not familiar with other options.

[@808moonfish]

can you do an under over split shot with that little dome?

[@BrentDurand]

I don’t see why not, however it will be easiest in smooth water.

[@drk321]

Small domes are not the perfect tool. Usually split shots are best pulled off with large domes. Two reasons: As Brent said you will need perfectly flat calm water but the other issue is that the dome casts what is known as a "virtual image" which is what the camera focuses on just in front of the dome (inches or centimeters with a small dome) in the underwater portion of the image that will be in focus. It is physics. The diameter of the dome determines how far away the virtual image is cast. The bigger the dome, the farther away the underwater portion of the image will appear to the camera. Inescapable. But in the upper part shot through air it focuses on the actual distance of the topside content maybe yards away. Sounds like gibberish but a larger dome will cast the "in focus" part of the underwater image farther away but not affect the upper part of the image so your depth of field has a better chance of the top and bottom being closer. The biggest challenge would be the calmness of the water. A small ripple on the surface is probably greater than the diameter of the dome as Brent said. But, try it anyway. Some of my favorite photographers tried things that shouldn't have worked but did.

[@PAPAPASCHALIS]

is it true that 360 video doesn't work underwater without the diving case?

[@BrentDurand]

Technically it will work, however you want to use the invisible dive case for the best optics and stitching.

[@lindaliao1988]

very helpful, thanks for share

[@BrentDurand]

Glad this is helpful!

[@pierremarien4452]

How do you hold the stick underwater? Always horizontal?

[@BrentDurand]

This is tricky. Insta360 recommends horizontal or vertical to minimize refraction from the sun, however that can often create a seam line right on you. So the answer is that you need to experiment a bit in relation to depth and angle to sun, but usually keep the seem away from important details.

[@pierremarien4452]

@@BrentDurand would you recommend the Ace Pro or the X4 for underwater? I assume Ace Pro would be better with its large sensor?

[@BrentDurand]

@@pierremarien4452 Each camera is for a very different purpose. For a general action camera, the Ace Pro. But for the 3rd person or 'drone' view effects, the X4 is great.

[@rossdewbre6685]

Any suggestions of how to protect the dome lenses underwater when you need both hands and have to stow the camera somewhere? Any concerns of it overheating in the dive case at 8k?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi - I would use a soft bag like the one that comes with the housing. You can put it over the housing and draw the strings tight and tie them. That should protect the housing if you clip it off, etc. Doesn't matter if that bag gets wet, but of course, for storage after the dive you want to dry the bag separately. Also, I didn't have issues with overheating, but I was diving in 50-57F water and tend to shoot one clip at a time and not let the camera run for many minutes at a time. In other words, I can't comment on warm water and leaving the camera on for the full dive.

[@drk321]

Great video but cringing at seeing the very delicate dome port of the dive housing laying unprotected on a metal cabinet. I am an underwater photographer and the ONLY thing that touches a (plastic or acrylic) dome port is water, flannel, microfiber or your fingers only if they are wet. That cabinet was either metal or wood. Acrylic scratches if you look at it sideways. Edit: Looks like you addressed the delicate nature of the dome later (props) in the video but.........

[@BrentDurand]

No need to cringe. That workbench has a very soft, clean rubber mat on top. Won’t scratch acrylic.😎

[@luiskantek]

The dive case is the same of x3?

[@BrentDurand]

The X4 is a different shape and requires the X4 invisible dive case. The X4 won't fit in the X3 case and vice versa.

[@paryvlandis9855]

If the conditions aren’t the best… what camera settings should you use? On overcast day for example when there’s low light? Thanks

[@BrentDurand]

For conditions like this Insta360 recommends 5k30 and not 8k.

[@paryvlandis9855]

@@BrentDurand thank you 🙏

[@lunackikogaming5183]

Does X4 have a wifi?

[@BrentDurand]

Yes, this is how it connects to your phone with the Insta360 app.

[@alexfaylona4007]

How about if i use the x4 without the dive case for some incidental water splash but not submerging. Is x4 still waterproof? Please clarify this...

[@BrentDurand]

Absolutely. The X4 is fully waterproof to 10m / 33ft.

[@Lionfish_Extermination_Corp]

Hey Brent, I’m still doing some experimenting but so far I’m not getting these results with my Insta360. I have the camera on pure video mode and it is really blue colorless footage. And the worst part is I can’t use Dive+ software to make it any better while using this camera. When I use GoPro. I can edit the video but probably due to the Insta360 color correction it is inhibiting me from making secondary corrections on dive plus. I’m sure the color would look nice but I certainly don’t have that availability while I’m hunting Lionfish. Too good to be true and so far it is I will do an actual review on my page when I get more experimenting done, but if you know any other way to get more true colors with the Insta360 like the GoPro does at 80 feet or so I would like to hear❤

[@BrentDurand]

Hi - You're using the Ace Pro? I liked using it in regular 4K30 mode at depth and not PureVideo mode. The auto color correction does best with nice light and color, so maybe try including something white in the frame to help WB adjust. The Dive+ issue is weird. An MP4 file is an MP4 file. You're exporting the clip from the Insta360 app and importing it into Dive+?

[@Lionfish_Extermination_Corp]

@@BrentDurand yes I tried to run it through dive plus and it doesn’t do well at all, but maybe that’s because the 4K30

[@BrentDurand]

@@Lionfish_Extermination_Corp Could be. Would need to try 4K footage from other cameras. In my experience, Dive+ can only be used on small screens - any larger and you see the heavy deterioration in image quality. So it's awesome for everyone shooting and posting quickly to social media, but not so much for anyone interested for larger screens.

[@jayceequispe9788]

Did they fix the problems that the x3 was having under water?

[@BrentDurand]

Are you referring to seeing the dive case? They did release a second case, the Invisible Dive Case' that solved those issues.

[@philri2719]

McAbee beach in Monterey in the first shot?

[@BrentDurand]

Yes, great eye! I put the X4 on a tripod so I could do a "selfie pan" shot.

[@davidcarrillorealty]

There's a very clear line in the diving shots... bit anoying. Wondering if is cause the software or the case?

[@BrentDurand]

The line is the stitching trying to merge the two camera perspectives. It's not noticable holding the camera vertical, but horizontal like in the scooter shots you do see the stitching at some angles. That said, the better the light and conditions the better it works.

[@ucdersch]

Which stick you use under water ??

[@BrentDurand]

I like this 114cm Invisible Selfie Stick for underwater: store.insta360.com/product/selfie_stick?c=2141&from=accessory?INRVP3L It's small and easy to carry (even on land), extends quite long, and holds up well to water use. It even has 1 1/4 20 thread on the bottom for a small d-ring so that you can attach it.

[@CFD43201]

Anyone else having issues accessing the additional settings(3 dots in the upper right hand corner) on the iOS mobile app? I can’t change between lens guards and dive case, because the 3 dots to access those additional settings aren’t there on my 360 mobile app.

[@BrentDurand]

I've just been doing it manually via the button on camera

[@kesturbo]

Don't keep housing on your shelf without bag. It can scratch even here.

[@BrentDurand]

I believe it! Great advice

[@BrentDurand]

And note that in my video the dome is on a very soft rubber mat where it will not scratch 😎

[@trishag6406]

Is the dive case of x3 compatible to x4?

[@BrentDurand]

It is not since the X4 camera is a slightly different size.

[@yhanny459]

What would you recommend, the x4 or the ace pro?

[@BrentDurand]

Each serves a different purpose. The X4 offers excellent drone / 3rd person perspective (plus a lot more), while the Ace Pro is a more traditional action camera with excellent underwater color correction. The choice depends what you’re trying to create.

[@yomango35]

I just tested for the first time my Insta360 X4 with the water Case for snorkeling compare to my Gopro 11, and let me tell you, I was so disappointed with the quality of the footage with the Insta360 X4. Am I the only one, or am I missing something here ?

[@BrentDurand]

I think there are specific use cases where the X4 stands out. This is primarily 3rd person / drone angle shots. In my camera bag I would pack a standard action camera and the X4 and use both depending on my goal for the shot.

[@111danish111]

We are living in interesting times.

[@BrentDurand]

Indeed

[@JansenZumel]

insta 360 x4 or dji osmo action 4?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi - For underwater I would choose the Ace Pro over the Action 4. Here's my full review: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKmUkISIe9t7mqcsi=Z0yqLgRhcFlwIX-8 Beyond that, I would say the X4 serves a different purpose than a standard action camera. The Ace Pro is impressive underwater but the X4 has stunning footage and that 3rd party or drone perspective, which is super unique. I may do a comparison of the two in the near future 😎.

[@Ronin_israel]

THANKS ALOT I AM YOUR 300 LIKE DOES THE WATERPROOF IS GOOD FOR AIRSOFT GAME PROTECTION

[@BrentDurand]

I would use the lens covers for airsoft since the invisible dive housing is not meant for surface use (it can be used and even has a land setting, however you'll get better image quality using the lens guards). Note that you will have to ask Insta360 about impact testing. These are the Premium Lens Guards: store.insta360.com/product/x4-premium-lens-guards?c=2971&from=accessory?INRVP3L

[@Ronin_israel]

@@BrentDurand thanks alot !

[@acem7749]

Want to see an actual 360 video uploaded. Unfortunately so far everyone keeps posting edited 2D formatted 360 video I want to see what it looks like in my quest 3 I'm buying this for a VR experience.

[@BrentDurand]

Great point. Do you have any quick references for the upload specs?

[@dalandan8300]

please upload 5.3k max framerate too

[@BrentDurand]

Noted. Will try to include this in the next one.

[@DeeDeeLecter]

I like ur hair 🤭🤭🤭

[@thejettpack]

This was exactly what I wanted to see! Thanks!

[@BrentDurand]

Glad this helped!

[@vincecheung7233]

thanks sharing

[@BrentDurand]

😎🤙

[@jayceequispe9788]

I need more reviews 😩 the x3 was terrible

[@BrentDurand]

There are lots of reviews and sample footage out there. I hope to have more underwater footage on here soon.

[@scoutfpv]

OMG look at those chemtrails!! This is happening world wide.

[@BrentDurand]

Planes do fly…

[@arpxdagoodone]

And the sample footage in that "foggy" water....ruins the whole video...

[@BrentDurand]

One can’t control the dive conditions

[@arpxdagoodone]

@@BrentDurand but you can control where or when to dive

[@BrentDurand]

@@arpxdagoodone Fair enough. This was the best spot, best time of day on a large section of coastline on my dive day, at least that I'm aware of.

[@DeeDeeLecter]

🤭 i think i need more time to get use to ur hair. Cant pay attention 🤭🤭🤭

[@albertoarcos5822]

Why aren’t my images being saved to my iPhone album as 360 images after I chose export as 360? It’s just flat images doesn’t save with that 360 symbol and FB doesn’t support 360 images no more ?

[@BrentDurand]

Hi, I'm not sure but recommend contacting Insta360 for this one. And Meta RE anything about them supporting 360 images. I just don't know.

[@BikiniGirlZoey]

I Have The X3 Not Seeing A 600 Dollar Difference HERE! To Spend The Money To Upgrade!

[@BrentDurand]

We likely need a detailed comparison review of the two cameras! The 8K footage in nice light conditions is impressive.