Insta360 GO 3 Review – Tiny Pocket Camera for All Occasions
If youre looking for a compact camera that really delivers – Check out this Insta360 GO 3 review! This pocket camera review will look into all the key aspects, from the Insta360 camera features to real-world performance insights.
Get ready to find out everything about the Insta360 GO 3 specs and how it stacks up against other action cameras. You’ll find out why this compact camera for travel is gaining popularity and no matter if it’s worth your investment. Let’s get started!
Pros and Cons of Insta360 GO 3
Pros
- ✅ Compact and lightweight design
- ✅ High-quality video resolution
- ✅ Versatile mounting accessories
- ✅ FlowState stabilization technology
Cons
- ❌ Limited battery life
- ❌ No 4K video resolution
Written by:
I have been travelling now for nearly three years. I left my 9-5 job in the UK and have never looked back. The one thing I would always advise anybody considering a nomad lifestyle is to just go for it! It will change you for the better. Music is my passion and I love to attend concerts of any variety but I do have a sweet spot for rock music.
Key Takeaways
- 2.7K video resolution for crisp footage
- Lightweight design at 35 grams
- FlowState stabilization ensures smooth videos
- Waterproof up to 4 meters
- Quick charging with a battery life of up to 150 minutes with Charge Case
- Compatible with iOS and Android via Insta360 app
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on our site are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. This helps us to continue providing valuable content and supports our efforts in bringing the travel community together. We only recommend products and services we believe in and think you’ll find useful. Complete details are included in our affiliate disclaimer. Thank you for your support!
Specifications of the Insta360 GO 3
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Waterproof Depth Rating | RUGGED ACTION POD: IPX4 splashproof; GO 3 Camera: IPX8 waterproof to 16ft/5m |
| ISO | 100-3200 |
| Shutter Speed | Photo: 1/8000 – 120s, Video: 1/8000 – to the limit of frames per second |
| Focal Length | 11.24mm |
| Aperture | F2.2 |
| Battery Life | GO 3: 45 mins, GO 3 + Action Pod: 170 mins |
| Compatibility |
iOS Devices: Compatible with iPhone SE 2, iPhone 8 or newer models, iPad Air (2020), iPad Pro and newer models. Android Devices: Compatible with Kirin 980+, Snapdragon 845+, Exynos 9810+, Tensor chips (e.g. Google Pixel 6). Note: Devices with Qualcomm SDM765 5G chips are not supported. |
| Weight | GO 3: 35.5g (1.25oz), Action Pod: 96.3g (3.40oz) |
A Quick Look at the Insta360 GO 3
In the world of compact cameras, the Insta360 GO 3 really does shine through as something different. With a plethora of features that cater specifically to travel photography enthusiasts and everyday consumers alike. Let’s look into what makes this pocket-sized marvel a standout. The camera has impressive resolution options, offering 2560×1440 for both photo and video capture. Sporting a 1/2.3” image sensor, it delivers clear, high-quality images that rival larger action cameras. While we wish it was 4K, the size of the camera and most important the price point do speak volumes.
The Go 3 is equipped with an F2.2 aperture lens, the camera provides a 35mm equivalent focal length of 11.24mm, allowing you to capture wide-angle shots with ease. The expansive 120-degree field of view ensures you don’t miss any part of your scenic surroundings.
Unique Features
One remarkable feature is the cameras magnetic body, you can tell Insta360 designed this for hands-free recording. It’s perfect for capturing spontaneous moments without needing to fiddle with mounts or stands. The FlowState stabilization technology guarantees smooth footage even in dynamic environments, making it invaluable for adventure look forers.
Additionally, the camera’s versatility is enhanced by its various modes:
- Hyperlapse: Create stunning time-lapse videos.
- Slo-Mo: Capture slow-motion footage at high frame rates.
- Timelapse: Record long events in compressed formats.
If you’re worried about durability, the Insta360 GO 3 is IPX8 rated, which means it can be submerged up to four meters, perfect for underwater fun or unexpected rain.
With built-in Bluetooth and WiFi, sharing your moments is a breeze using the Insta360 app on iOS and Android. It does not offer 360 like when we reviewed the insta360 one rs but that is not the key selling point of this camera.
Pick up your Insta360 GO 3 from the official Insta360 site for $319.99 today with free carry case!
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Build Quality and Design
The Insta360 GO 3 Pocket Camera is built really well and designed with travelers in mind. Its compact form factor makes it highly portable, allowing you to effortlessly slip it into your pocket or backpack without adding bulk.
Materials Used
Made from high-quality plastic, the camera is lightweight but still feels really durable. The matte finish ensures a firm grip even if your hands are sweaty or wet. Despite its small size, the camera exudes a robust feel that belies its weight.
Ergonomics
Ergonomically designed, the Insta360 GO 3 fits comfortably in your hand. The intuitive button placement means you can operate it with ease, even one-handed. This ergonomic design is particularly beneficial for capturing spontaneous moments on your travels.
Weight and Portability
At just 35 grams, this action camera is super light. This featherweight nature enhances its portability, making it easy to carry around all day without feeling weighed down. Its slim profile ensures that it occupies minimal space in your luggage.
Weather-Sealing and Durability
One great thing is its IPX8 waterproof rating, letting you submerge it up to 4 meters underwater. This makes it ideal for adventure enthusiasts who might find themselves kayaking or snorkeling. The rugged waterproof case included further bolsters its durability against harsh weather conditions.
All these features contribute to the Insta360 GO 3 being a great travel addition that you can trust:
- Lightweight: Weighs only 35 grams.
- Durable Materials: Premium plastic construction.
- Waterproof: IPX8 rated up to 4 meters.
- Ergonomic Design: Comfortable grip with intuitive controls.
- Highly Portable: Slim and compact design.
Best Insta360 Cameras – Full Reviews
Battery Life and Storage
As we progress our Insta360 GO 3 review, you’ll see that it has great battery life. The manufacturer states that the camera alone can record up to 20 minutes on a single charge. However, with the Charge Case, this extends impressively to 150 minutes, giving you ample time to capture your adventures without frequent interruptions. In real life, this works great for those quick action-packed moments or longer vlogging sessions.
In terms of storage, the Insta360 GO 3 offers three internal storage options: 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB. This built-in storage means you don’t need extra memory cards, making it easier to set up your gear. Personally, I always think it would have been great if the brand would have included some form of microSD storage, sadly there’s no expandable memory card slot but the internal options given should be enough for most travel lovers wanting to capture their adventures in great quality. Just remember to future-proof a little when selecting your model.
During my travels with this pocket camera review in mind, I found that even with extensive use over several outings, I rarely had to worry about running out of power or space. The internal storage handled multiple days of footage seamlessly.
Top 3 Insta360 Cameras
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ISO and Low Light Performance
The Insta360 GO 3 boasts an ISO range from 100 to 3200, offering versatility for various lighting conditions. When traveling, you often encounter diverse environments where lighting can be unpredictable. No matter if you’re capturing the hustle of a night market or the glow of a moonlit beach, this pocket camera ensures your adventures are well-documented.
In low-light scenarios, the Insta360 GO 3 performs admirably. The camera’s sensor adjusts efficiently to dim conditions, minimizing noise and preserving detail. This feature is especially helpful when you’re checking out dark interiors of historic places or wanting to capture the beauty of cityscapes at night.
Video Performance
The Insta360 GO 3 is great at providing different video resolutions and frame rates, so you have options based on what you need to record. It supports up to 2560×1440 at both 50fps and 30fps, as well as Full HD (1920×1080) at the same frame rates. This flexibility means you can grab smooth and detailed footage whether you’re shooting a fast-paced action scene or a beautiful landscape.
Autofocus Performance
One of the standout features of the GO 3 is its efficient autofocus system. The camera quickly locks onto subjects even in dynamic environments, minimizing blur and maintaining sharpness throughout your recordings. This is especially handy when you’re on the go and don’t want to miss those spontaneous moments.
Stabilization Features
FlowState stabilization technology is another great feature that keeps your videos smooth, even when things get hectic. No matter if you’re mountain biking on rugged terrain or simply walking through a crowded market, this feature significantly reduces shakiness.
Special Recording Modes
The camera also offers several specialized modes that enhance its video capabilities:
– Hyperlapse: Speed up time with ease for dramatic effects.
– Slow Motion: Capture every detail by slowing down the action.
– Timelapse: Perfect for documenting lengthy processes in a condensed format.
Those who need 4K or slightly better performance should check out our full insta360 go 3S review. As the successor to the GO 3, it has some pretty nice improvements but a higher price tag to boot!
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Connectivity Options
The Insta360 GO 3 is packed with solid connectivity options, making it a handy friend for your travels. You’ll find this pocket camera packed with modern connectivity options that simplify sharing and editing your captured moments.
First off, the Insta360 GO 3 is equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, ensuring fast and reliable wireless communication with your devices. This feature is particularly handy when you need to quickly transfer files or control the camera remotely without dealing with cables. The camera also has WiFi 802.11a/b/g/n/ac capabilities. This high-speed WiFi ensures seamless file transfers and live streaming, providing flexibility no matter if you’re in a busy city or exploring remote landscapes.
Insta360 has a companion app that works on both iOS and Android devices. The app allows you to edit footage on the fly, apply filters, and even create dynamic video sequences effortlessly. It’s easy to use, which is great for travelers wanting to instantly share their experiences on social media. For those who prefer working on a larger screen, Insta360 provides comprehensive desktop software solutions. These tools have advanced editing features that help you tweak every detail of your footage. No matter if you’re stitching together panoramic shots or adding stabilizing effects, the desktop software covers all bases.
These connectivity options make the Insta360 GO 3 an ideal choice for capturing and sharing your travel stories without any hassle.
Quick Tips to using Insta360 GO 3
Getting the best out of your Insta360 GO 3 can be a delightful experience with these handy tips. This compact camera has lots of features, but a few tricks can make it work even better.
The magnetic design is perfect for hands-free recording. Attach it securely to metallic surfaces or use the included magnetic pendant for a unique perspective.
Enable FlowState stabilization to ensure smooth and steady footage, especially when capturing action shots or moving scenes.
Use voice commands for a hassle-free operation. This feature is particularly useful when your hands are occupied or you’re in tricky situations.
Experiment with hyperlapse mode to create dynamic time-lapse videos. Perfect for long hikes or city tours where you want to condense hours into seconds
Take advantage of the quick charging capabilities. A brief charge can get you back up and running swiftly, crucial during those prolonged shooting sessions
Price and Value
Looking at the Insta360 GO 3 review, the price of $429.99 might seem a bit high for a small camera. However, once you look into its features, the value becomes more apparent. The GO 3 offers impressive specifications like 2.7K video resolution, FlowState stabilization, and a lightweight design at just 35 grams.
Compared to other pocket cameras in this category, such as the DJI Osmo Pocket or GoPro HERO9 Black, the GO 3 holds its ground well. Its magnetic body and versatile mounting options provide unique usability that many action cameras lack. Additionally, it comes with essential accessories including a charging case, pivot stand, and magnetic pendant.
But you should keep an eye out for possible extra costs. While the camera includes some mounts and accessories, you might find yourself purchasing additional mounts or lens protectors depending on your usage.
Pick up your Insta360 GO 3 from the official Insta360 site for $319.99 today with free carry case!
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Comparison with Competitors
When you check out how the Insta360 GO 3 stacks up against its main rivals, you’ll see a slew of similar features but also some clear differences that could sway your decision. To get a better understanding, let’s take a closer look at how it compares to two popular alternatives: the GoPro Hero9 Black and the DJI Osmo Action.
| Feature | Insta360 GO 3 | Insta360 GO 3S | GoPro Hero9 Black | DJI Osmo Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Video Resolution | Up to 2.7K | Up to 4K | Up to 5K | 4K at 60fps |
| Photo Resolution | 2560×1440 (2K) | 4000×2250 (4K) | 20MP | 12MP |
| Stabilization | FlowState Stabilization | FlowState Stabilization | HyperSmooth 3.0 | RockSteady 2.0 |
| Weight | 35g | 39.1g | 158g | 124g |
| Battery Life | Up to 45 minutes | Up to 38 minutes | Up to 90 minutes | Up to 63 minutes |
| Price (approx.) | $379 | $399 | $349 | $299 |
GoPro Hero9 Black
A lot of people consider the GoPro Hero9 Black to be the best in action cameras. Here’s how it compares:
– Video Resolution: The Hero9 offers 5K video resolution at 30fps, significantly higher than the Insta360 GO 3’s 2.7K.
– Photo Resolution: At 20MP, the GoPro surpasses the Insta360’s 14MP capabilities.
– Stabilization: Both cameras offer impressive stabilization; however, FlowState technology in the GO 3 is often noted for its smoothness in dynamic conditions.
– Weight: The GO 3 is much lighter at 35 grams compared to the bulky Hero9 at 158 grams.
– Battery Life: With up to 150 minutes using its Charge Case, the GO 3 outlasts the Hero9’s average of around 90 minutes.
– Price: Typically priced around $429.99, it’s more affordable than the Hero9 which hovers near $449.
DJI Osmo Action
Another strong competitor is DJI’s Osmo Action:
– Video Resolution: Comparable to Insta360 with its capability of shooting up to 4K at 60fps.
– Photo Resolution: Matches closely with a photo resolution of 12MP versus Insta360’s slightly higher spec.
– Stabilization: RockSteady technology in DJI performs similarly well as FlowState but each has unique strengths depending on movement patterns.
– Weight & Size: Heavier and bulkier than Insta360 GO 3, which can be a deciding factor for those valuing portability.
– Battery Life: Offers about an hour and a half on average, making GO 3’s potential battery life with Charge Case more attractive for prolonged adventures.
– Price: Usually found around $349.99, making it cheaper than both competitors.
Each camera has its strengths, and your choice will really come down to what matters most to you – whether that’s video quality, how easy it is to carry, or the cost. The Insta360 GO offers a compelling mix of functionality and affordability that could make it your go to companion for capturing life’s adventures effortlessly.
Insta360 GO 3S
Another entry from Insta360 is the successor to the GO 3 – The GO 3S, it comes with a better sensor, higher max frame rate, improved water resistance, and max FOV. It does come in at a higher price point however.
– Video Resolution: Improved to the Insta360 GO 3 with its capability of shooting up to 4K at 60fps.
– Photo Resolution: Matches closely with a photo resolution of 12MP versus Insta360’s slightly higher spec.
– Stabilization: FlowState same as the GO 3.
– Weight & Size: Slightly Heavier than Insta360 GO 3 but similar size.
– Battery Life: As it shoots at 4K, the battery life is slightly reduced at 38 minutes compared to the 45 mins of the GO 3.
– Price: Usually found around $399.99, making it more expensive than the GO 3.
Pick up your Insta360 GO 3S from the official Insta360 site for $399.99 today with free carry case!
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Final Thoughts of This Insta360 GO 3 Review
The Insta360 GO 3 is a compact marvel, offering a unique mix of portability and high-quality performance. With 2.7K video resolution and FlowState stabilization, you can count on getting smooth footage, even when things get a bit wild. This action camera isn’t just about snapping pictures; it really shines with features like hyperlapse, slow motion, and timelapse. At just 35 grams, it’s super light but tough enough to handle being water-resistant for up to four meters.
Your travel adventures will benefit from its quick charging capabilities and compatibility with both iOS and Android devices via the Insta360 app. Thanks to its magnetic body and flexible mounting options, you can record hands-free, which is pretty awesome! Having dual microphones gives you great stereo sound, making this gadget perfect for any traveler in need of a reliable pocket camera.
Top 3 Insta360 Cameras
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Insta360 GO 3 Review FAQs
The Insta360 GO 3 features a 2.7K video resolution and a photo resolution of 2560×1440. This ensures that your videos and pictures are captured in high quality, making it ideal for travel photography.
FlowState stabilization technology ensures smooth footage even in dynamic scenes by using advanced algorithms to minimize camera shake. This feature is on all of the best Insta360 cameras and particularly beneficial for action shots or when recording while on the go.
The camera comes with storage options of 32GB, 64GB, and 128GB. These options allow you to choose the right capacity based on your recording needs without worrying about running out of space during your travels.
Yes, the Insta360 GO 3 is water-resistant up to 4 meters with its rugged waterproof case. This makes it suitable for capturing underwater footage or shooting in rainy conditions without damaging the camera.
Yes, this compact camera supports slow motion mode along with hyperlapse and timelapse modes. These features enhance your creative possibilities, no matter if you’re creating dramatic action sequences or condensed time-lapse videos.
– Next Article
Insta360 GO 3S Review – The Ultimate Tiny 4K Travel Camera?
Insta360 GO 3S Review – The Ultimate Tiny 4K Travel Camera? Imagine capturing your adventures with a camera so small…
Affiliate Disclosure: Some of the links on our site are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, we may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. This helps us to continue providing valuable content and supports our efforts in bringing the travel community together. We only recommend products and services we believe in and think you’ll find useful. Complete details are included in our affiliate disclaimer. Thank you for your support!
