A look at a few class-leading cameras will help you to understand how much these sophisticated devices cost. In general, good 360-degree cameras cost upwards of $400.
How Much do 360 Degree Cameras Cost?
Let’s go ahead and take a look at a few specific 360 camera models to see how much they cost.
Insta360 One X2
The Insta360 One X2 price tag is typically around $400.
For casual users, the Insta360 One X2 will prove to be optimal and cost-effective. Not only does it have a relatively low price point, with its rich assortment of features, but it also provides decent value for money.
Besides boasting very capable hardware, the Insta360 One X2 also has the software to match. Much like its previous version, the Insta360 One X2, it offers an array of innovative features.
The One X2 is a bit bigger than its predecessor, though. However, it has greater water resistance being able to withstand water to a depth of 10 meters.
The circular touchscreen allows you to change settings quickly while previewing videos. The battery life is also improved. Battery time on a full charge is 80 minutes.
The image stabilization is astonishing. Even with the bumpiest rides, videos do look quite smooth.
The One X2 has a good mix of resolution and frame rate. At 5.7K, the frame rate is 30 fps, while at 4K resolution, the frame rate goes up to 50 fps.
The One X2 360 manages super smooth videos under rough conditions thanks to efficient stabilization made possible by the advanced FlowState algorithm.
You can also bump up the video frame for professional quality videos or drive it down using the TimeShift feature.
Pros
- Extraordinary 360 video quality
- Excellent software suite
- Water-resistant
- Superb image stabilization
Cons
- Slightly heavy
GoPro Hero Max
The GoPro Hero Max costs near $500.
You get good value for money from this 360 camera due to a mix of several desirable features, not the least of which is a small display at the back. At this position, the display lets you easily see what the camera is recording. This feature is not available on most 360 cameras though it should be.
The display is also generously sized so that you can see the video easily. The menu is easy to navigate. The screen provides a great user experience due to its position and size. You will feel at ease working with the screen without the app. For most cameras, you need the phone-based app for satisfactory control.
The HyperSmooth stabilization feature does what it implies and does it well. You can expect smooth videos even under rough conditions.
The resolution goes up to 5.6K at 30 fps. This is a decent mix of high resolution and frame rates that is typical of GoPro’s lofty standards.
The app is highly versatile and can let you live stream from the 360 camera.
Although the GoPro Max costs more than the Insta360 One X2, it also delivers high performance.
One main drawback is that it does not have a tripod mount. You will have to rely on the selfie stick or use GoPro accessories.
Pros
- Superior video quality
- Intuitive app
- Super smooth motion
Cons
- Feels awkward to hold – needs a tripod stand
Ricoh Theta Z1
The Ricoh Theta Z1 costs around one grand, making it quite expensive even for a 360 camera.
A lot of 360 cameras on the market today show inadequate performance under low light due to their small sensor size. The Ricoh Theta Z1, however, shines in this regard owing to its double CMOS sensor configuration that delivers high-quality visuals even under dim conditions.
Besides superior video quality, the Ricoh Theta Z1 also boasts great audio quality thanks to the use of dual mics.
Motion stabilization is highly effective, too, providing smooth imagery even when the going gets rough.
The Ricoh Theta Z1 is an Android-powered device. The advantage of deploying Android is that developers can create 3rd party plugins that will greatly enhance and augment functionality.
A major caveat, though, is that memory is fixed. You cannot expand storage. Another issue is that battery life is not up to par.
Also, note that you will be using 2 apps for video editing with this camera. However, if image quality is paramount, then this 360 camera is the device to aim for.
The device is designed thoughtfully for good ergonomics. You don’t need a selfie stick for holding it, plus you keep it in your pocket without problems. Neither of these advantages is available with the GoPro Max.
It records videos in 4K at 30 fps while photos are 23MP.
The above numbers show that the expensive Z1 (with 4K max resolution) lags behind the GoPro Max and the Insta360 One X2 (5.6K resolution max for both) in the video quality department.
However, it is not as simple as that. The truth is that despite less resolution, the Z1 has large sensors which can capture a lot of detail for astonishingly good video and photo quality. Best of all, a large sensor size is ideal for low light conditions since more light can enter.
Another really nice aspect of the Z1 is the exceptional audio quality. The dual mics perform well even under a light breeze. There is no noise from the breeze, and mics pick up subtle sounds with ease.
Pros
- Great image quality even under low light
- Useful 3rdparty plugins for greater functionality
- User-friendly design
- Premium sturdy build
Cons
- Costly
- Fixed memory
- Video editing requires two apps
Our Final Thoughts
Wondering how much do 360-degree cameras cost? With the leading models shown above, you have a better understanding. Expect to pay a few hundred dollars at minimum for a top-class 360 camera. Some of them even cost about one grand. As always, you must be prepared to give more cash in return for greater performance, features, and functions.
