Insta360 GO 3S Review – The Ultimate Tiny 4K Travel Camera?
Imagine capturing your adventures with a camera so small it fits in your pocket, yet powerful enough to shoot 4K video. Our Insta360 GO 3S review looks into this compact marvel, highlighting its impressive capabilities and unique features.
You’ll discover how the Insta360 GO 3S stands out in the action camera market, no matter if it’s for hands-free recording or advanced stabilization. With detailed insights on performance, design, and ease of use, this review is here to give you all the info you need to know if you are considering owning this tiny powerhouse.
Pros and Cons of Insta360 GO 3S
Pros
- ✅ Tiny yet powerful
- ✅ Hands-free recording
- ✅ Versatile mounting options
- ✅ Advanced stabilization
Cons
- ❌ Limited battery life
- ❌ No external storage
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
- Tiny yet powerful 4K action camera
- Versatile hands-free recording with various mounting options
- Extended battery life with Action Pod
- Advanced stabilization for steady footage
- Waterproof up to 33ft (10m) with Lens Guard installed
- AI-powered auto editing for quick highlight reels
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!
Quick Look at the Insta360 GO 3S
The Insta360 GO 3S is the successor of the popular Insta360 GO 3 but as I started this Insta360 GO 3S review and exploring the tiny camera, one thing that caught my eye was was this impressive resolution and sensor capabilities. You’ll love the video the camera captures. It’s now up to 4K video at 30fps and it’s very good. This will make your travel memories feel just as vivid as the real experience. Its photo resolution peaks at 4000×3000 pixels (4:3), perfect for high-quality stills.
One handy feature I found is the FlowState Stabilization – it gives you super-smooth footage, even when things get a bit wild. The Easy Switch function makes it super easy to change the aspect ratio from horizontal to vertical, which is perfect for all those social media posts.
If you want to record hands-free, you’re in luck! There are multiple mounting options that make capturing POV shots a breeze. The QuickCapture feature lets you start recording instantly with a single button press—a handy tool when you’re on the move.
- Waterproof up to 33ft (10m) with Lens Guard installed.
- Action Pod extends battery life and adds a flip touchscreen.
- Plenty of mountable accessories
Pick up your Insta360 GO 3S from the official Insta360 site today and get a free carry case!
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Insta360 GO 3S Quick Specs
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Max Resolution | 4K at 30fps |
| Max Frame Rate | 1080p at 200fps |
| Photo Resolution | Up to 4000×3000 (4:3) |
| Aperture | F2.8 |
| 35mm Equivalent Focal Length | 16mm |
| Weight | Camera – 39.1g (1.38oz), Action Pod – 96.3g (3.40oz) |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | Camera -25.6×54.4×24.8 mm(1.0×2.1×1.0in) |
| Video Coding | H .264 |
| Max Video Bitrate | 120Mbps |
| Storage | 64GB or128GB options |
| Battery Capacity | Camera -310mAh, Action Pod-1270mAh |
| Run Time | Camera only-38 mins, Camera +Action Pod-140 mins |
| Water Resistance | IPX8 up to33ft(10m) |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth BLE5 .0, Wi-Fi5GHz802 .11a/n/ac, USB Type-C |
Build Quality and Design
The Insta360 GO 3S boasts a surprisingly sturdy yet featherlight build, making it an ideal companion for any travel adventure. Crafted from high-quality polycarbonate, the camera feels durable in hand without adding unnecessary bulk to your gear. The matte finish not only gives it a sleek look but also provides a better grip, minimizing the chances of accidental slips.
Materials and Ergonomics
You’ll appreciate the thoughtfulness that went into its design. The polycarbonate body is both lightweight and durable, striking a balance between ruggedness and portability. The ergonomics are well-considered; it fits comfortably in your hand, and the tactile buttons are responsive even when you’re wearing gloves.
Weight and Portability
Weighing just 39.1 grams (1.38 ounces) for the camera alone, its compact form ensures it won’t weigh you down during extended trips. The accompanying Action Pod adds another 96.3 grams (3.40 ounces), which is still manageable for most users.
– Camera Weight: 39.1g (1.38oz)
– Action Pod Weight: 96.3g (3.40oz)
– Dimensions: 25.6×54.4×24.8 mm (1.0×2.1x1in)
Weather-Sealing and Durability
One standout feature is its IPX8 waterproof rating, allowing you to take it underwater up to 33 feet (10 meters) with confidence—perfect for capturing aquatic adventures or rainy hikes without fear of damage.
– Waterproof Rating: IPX8 up to 33ft (10m)
The Insta360 GO 3S really stands out with its robust materials, comfortable ergonomics, lightweight design, and great weather-proofing. This action camera is very user-friendly.
Performance and Image Quality of Insta360 GO 3S
The Insta360 GO 3S packs a punch when it comes to performance and image quality. The autofocus is very quick, grabbing focus on subjects accurately even in busy scenes, in all my tests, it never struggles to re-gain that focus which is great to see. You won’t miss a moment no matter if you’re capturing fast-paced action or landscapes.
Low-Light Performance
When it’s dark, this camera really shines thanks to its F2.8 aperture, this allows more light into the lens and as an added bonus gives a great depth of field when needed. It captures details well and keeps noise down, so you get clear footage. Sure, there are professional video cameras and DSLRs that can provide a cleaner shot but for the price-point and the targeted user market here, we cannot complain. Night shots look amazing, so it’s a great partner for your evening outings.
Color Accuracy
The GO 3S really nails color accuracy. The hues are true-to-life, avoiding oversaturation while still delivering vivid imagery. This balance makes sure your videos and photos look natural, which is very important when you’re on the move and making travel docs.
Image Stabilization
One standout feature is the FlowState Stabilization technology. No matter if you’re trekking through rugged terrain or cycling on bumpy roads, this advanced stabilization system keeps your footage smooth and steady. The camera’s ability to maintain stability even in challenging conditions sets it apart from competitors.
The Insta360 GO 3S really stands out, whether you’re shooting in bright sunlight or low light. You can always count on it to deliver great quality.
Insta360 have been knocking it out of the park recently with their image stabalization, we discovered this in our insta360 flow review.
Pick up your Insta360 GO 3S from the official Insta360 site today and get a free carry case!
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Battery Life and Storage
Let’s talk battery life! After all, no Insta360 GO 3S review would be complete without acknowledging that the camera boasts a dual-battery system, combining a 310mAh battery in the camera with an additional 1270mAh battery in the Action Pod. According to Insta360, you can get up to 38 minutes of continuous recording with just the camera alone. However, when paired with the Action Pod, this extends significantly to around 140 minutes.
In real-world scenarios, expect variability based on shooting conditions and usage patterns. For example, using a lot of high-res 4K video or streaming live on Wi-Fi can make the battery run out quicker which can be a tad annoying, remember that, for things like social media use – you can usually rely on 1080P footage. If battery life is crucial, consider stepping down the resolution in these cases. But for casual users capturing moments intermittently throughout a day trip, this extended battery life is more than sufficient.
Storage Options
When it comes to storage, the Insta360 GO 3S does not disappoint. The camera offers built-in storage options of either 64GB or 128GB. This capacity should be ample for most short trips or daily adventures without needing an external memory card. However, it’s important to note that there is no slot for expandable memory cards like microSDs.
Having built-in storage makes life easier—no need to deal with several cards—but it does mean you need to keep an eye on your space. Given the fact this camera shoots at 4K at 30fps, footage can eat through those gigabytes quickly if you’re not careful.
If you love adventure and are always out creating content, it makes sense to go for the bigger storage model, I always find considering future-proofing in this area is always a good idea.
Best Insta360 Cameras – Full Reviews
ISO and Low Light Performance
The Insta360 GO 3S offers an ISO range from 100 to 3200, allowing you to capture clear images in various lighting conditions. This flexibility is a great bonus for travelers who often find themselves in all sorts of lighting, from bright sunny days to cozy, dimly lit rooms.
In low light scenarios, the camera performs admirably. The wide aperture of f/2.8 helps gather more light, reducing noise and maintaining detail. Just picture capturing the warm glow of street lamps in a European city or the cozy vibe of a restaurant without losing that quality.
We found the low light performance in this Insta360 GO 3S review to be similar to the GO 3 when we wrote our insta360 go 3 review. No matter if you’re taking videos of nightlife or evening landscapes, the GO 3S ensures your memories are preserved with clarity and precision.
Top 3 Insta360 Cameras
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Video Performance
The Insta360 GO 3S does a great job with autofocus, so your videos stay sharp and focused, no matter how varied the environment can be. No matter if you’re capturing fast-paced action or scenic landscapes, the camera’s advanced autofocus system quickly locks onto subjects to provide clear and detailed footage.
Key Video Features
As it can shoot in 4K at 30fps, making high-resolution videos from such a tiny camera is almost unbelievable. The wide-angle lens with MegaView FOV offers a broader perspective with minimal distortion, perfect for panoramic shots. FlowState Stabilization is there to keep your video smooth and steady, even when you’re moving around.
Shooting Flexibility
The GO 3S is super versatile, with modes like TimeShift for cool time-lapse videos and Slow Motion for dramatic shots at 200fps in 1080p. Moreover, the Easy Switch feature allows you to effortlessly switch between horizontal and vertical aspect ratios, catering to different social media platforms.
Connectivity Options
The Insta360 GO 3S comes with lots of connectivity options, making it a handy addition to your travel gear. The camera comes equipped with Bluetooth BLE 5.0 and Wi-Fi 5GHz 802.11a/n/ac, allowing you to effortlessly connect to various devices and networks.You’ll love the USB Type-C port for quick charging and fast data transfer.
Insta360 also has a great companion app for iOS and Android that gives you better control over the camera and makes sharing footage super easy.For desktop users, Insta360 offers software that supports video editing with advanced features like FlowState Stabilization. This ensures that no matter if you’re on the go or at your workstation, you have full control over your content.
- Bluetooth BLE 5.0
- Wi-Fi 5GHz 802.11a/n/ac
- USB Type-C Port
- Companion App (iOS & Android)
- Desktop Software (with advanced editing features)
These connectivity options ensure that you’re never far from capturing or sharing your next epic moment.
Quick Tips to using Insta360 GO 3S
To make the most out of this Insta360 GO 3S review and indeed your Insta360 GO 3S, here are some handy tips and tricks:- Mounting Options: Use the wide range of mounting accessories that you can get with the camera for hands-free recording. The magnetic pendant is particularly useful for capturing POV shots effortlessly.
The Action Pod not only helps the battery last longer but also has a flip screen for easier framing and playback. This is especially useful when taking videos of yourself or with others. Gone are the days where you have to set up the camera and try to guess where to stand in the frame! The display is small but gives a good reference point all the same. Remember to carry it if you expect long recording sessions.
Turn on FlowState Stabilization to get smooth and steady footage, especially when shooting action scenes or in shaky situations.
This feature lets you start recording right away with just a single button press. Perfect for those unexpected moments that need capturing fast.
Use the Easy Switch function to quickly change between horizontal and vertical shooting modes without interrupting your flow. Also perfect for social media.
Turn on voice control for hands-free operation when your hands are busy or dirty, great for adventure sports or cooking vlogs.
Be sure to make use of the AI-powered editing tools available in the Insta360 companion app to create highlight reels effortlessly.By following these tips, you’ll optimize your experience with one of the best action cameras on the market.
Price and Value
When considering the Insta360 GO 3S, at the time of this Insta360 GO 3S review, its price tag is $399.99 with a free carry case when accessing through our links. This is undeniably on the higher end for action cameras. This device does prove that it’s worth the price.
It has all those impressive features and performance that is great for the tony form factor. The inclusion of 4K video recording at 30fps, advanced FlowState Stabilization, and hands-free recording options make it a competitive choice in the action camera market.Comparatively, models like the GoPro HERO9 Black or DJI Osmo Action offer similar specifications but often require additional purchases to match the Insta360 GO 3S’s versatility.
The Action Pod included with the GO 3S extends battery life significantly and adds functionality such as a flip touchscreen and remote control—features that are typically sold separately in other brands.However, potential buyers should be aware of additional costs for accessories like lens guards or extra storage cards if opting for the 64GB version. Considering all this, it’s clear this model gives you great bang for your buck with its compact size and rich feature set.
For those looking for a versatile, high-performance device, this might indeed be the best insta360 camera available today.
Pick up your Insta360 GO 3S from the official Insta360 site today and get a free carry case!
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Comparison with Competitors
The Insta360 GO 3S ratings speak for themselves, however it is good to see how the camera stacks up with similar products across the market. The GoPro Hero10 Black, DJI Osmo Action, and Sony RX0 II are all great products in their own rights, but how do they compare to the Insta 360 GO 3S? Let’s check them out with some quick focus looks at what makes each camera shine.
Insta360 GO 3S vs. GoPro HERO10 Black
The Insta360 GO 3S and the GoPro HERO10 Black target similar audiences but offer different strengths:
- Resolution: The GO 3S records in 4K at 30fps, while the HERO10 Black offers 5.3K at 60fps.
- Weight: The GO 3S is significantly lighter at just over an ounce, making it ideal for ultralight travel.
- Battery Life: The Insta360 setup gives you up to 140 minutes of runtime, while the HERO10 Black gives you around 90 minutes per charge.
- Price: Both cameras are priced similarly, although the Hero10 often appears slightly more expensive due to its higher resolution capabilities.
Insta360 GO 3S vs. DJI Osmo Action
Next up is a comparison between the Insta360 GO 3S and DJI Osmo Action:
- Stabilization: Both cameras excel with advanced stabilization technologies; however, FlowState stabilization on the GO 3S is known for smoother results.
- Mounting Options: The hands-free recording feature and various mounting options give the GO 3S an edge for POV shots over DJI’s more traditional mounts.
- Waterproofing: While both are waterproof, the Insta360 can go to 33ft compared to DJI’s standard limit of around 36ft without an additional housing.
- Cost Efficiency: The price point for both models hovers around $400, but DJI may require extra accessories for comparable functionality.
Insta360 GO 3S vs. Sony RX0 II
Let’s take a look at Sony’s high-end RX0 II to see how it stacks up:
- Portability: Insta360 wins on weight and size. At just over an ounce, it’s much easier to carry than Sony’s bulkier RX0 II (110g).
- Image Quality: Sony’s RX0 II has superior photo resolution but sacrifices convenience due to its heavier build.
- Durability: Both cameras are rugged and waterproof but the RX0 II sports better drop resistance.
- Price Performance Ratio: The RX0 II comes in more expensive than the Insta360 despite offering fewer travel-friendly features.
Insta360 GO 3S Review – Final Thoughts
In the review of the Insta360 GO 3S, we saw awesome features like 4K video at 30fps, FlowState stabilization, and hands-free modes that make capturing your adventures super easy. Its small size and lightweight design allow you to mount it practically anywhere, making it incredibly versatile for travel. Coupled with the Action Pod, which extends battery life and adds a flip touchscreen for easy control, this camera proves to be both powerful and practical.Thanks to upgrades like MegaView FOV for wider shots and AI tools for quick highlight reels, this action camera is definitely one of the best out there right now.
Features like Apple Find My support add an extra layer of convenience. You may be an experienced traveler or just getting started, but the Insta360 GO 3S comes with a great set of features that make it stand out from the competition without costing a fortune.
Top 5 Insta360 Cameras
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Insta360 GO 3S Review FAQs
The Insta360 GO 3S can record in up to 4K at 30fps, providing high-quality footage for your adventures. This makes it one of the best action cameras out there for capturing detailed scenes.
The camera alone runs for approximately 38 minutes. Remember, that with the Action Pod, you can boost that to about 140 minutes, which is perfect for long recording sessions. Even when compared to the best Insta360 cameras, this is impressive.
Yes, the camera is waterproof up to 33ft (10m) when equipped with a Lens Guard. This feature is great for people who love water sports and want to capture their underwater adventures without risking damaging your device.
Yeah, it has FlowState Stabilization technology that makes sure your footage is smooth and steady, even when things get a little wild. This is similar to the Insta360 X4 360 camera, check out our insta360 x4 review for more details.
The camera supports Bluetooth BLE 5.0 and Wi-Fi (5GHz), allowing easy transfer of files and remote control capabilities through its companion app. These features really stack up well against other Insta360 cameras when it comes to connectivity.
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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!
