Last week, I had the pleasure of attending the Malaysia Autoshow 2024 to check out the latest offerings available in Malaysia. Among the many fascinating exhibits, one purchase stood out as a game-changer for my adventures – the Insta360 X4. As a soon-to-be owner of a dual-sport adventure bike, I knew this 360-degree action camera was a must-have and would be the perfect companion to capture every moment of my rides. Here’s a detailed look at my unboxing experience and my first impressions.
First Impressions
The Insta360 X4 came in a sleek, well-packaged box, featuring a high-quality image of the camera on the front. Opening the box, I was greeted with the camera itself, snugly fitted in protective foam. The first thing that struck me was the compact size, although it is bigger than the X3 due to the increased battery capacity, and the robust build of the Insta360 X4 – it felt solid and ready for any adventure.
What’s in the Box?
The package included:
- Insta360 X4 Camera: The main camera.
- Battery: Built-in removable, a rechargeable battery to ensure long recording sessions.
- Charging Cable: A USB-C cable for charging and data transfer.
- Lens Guard: Extra protection for the lens.
- Lens Cap: Extra extra protection for the lens.
- Guides: Essential for getting up and running quickly.
- 2-in-1 Invisible Selfie Stick + Tripod: Dual use: an invisible selfie stick, or fold out the built-in tripod to set up and shoot.
- Carry Case: A simple soft pouch to carry the camera around.
- Thermo Grip Cover: Reduces the surface temperature of the X4 and makes it more comfortable to hold when recording in 8K for a long time.
Features and Specs
Here are some of the standout features and specifications of the Insta360 X4:
Resolution: 8K30 360-degree video recording.
Stabilisation: FlowState stabilisation for smooth and shake-free footage.
Battery Life: Up to 80 minutes of continuous shooting.
Waterproof: Waterproof up to 10 meters without an additional case.
Editing Software: Access to Insta360’s comprehensive editing software suite.
Setting Up
Setting up the Insta360 X4 was straightforward and a quick update to the latest firmware. The quick start guide was clear and concise, walking me through the basics of charging and powering up the camera. The intuitive touchscreen interface made it easy to navigate the settings and get everything configured to my liking. I was particularly impressed by the camera's seamless integration with the Insta360 app, which offers a host of editing and sharing options.
First Test Shoot
I took the Insta360 X4 out for a spin in my neighbourhood. The camera’s stabilisation features were immediately noticeable, delivering smooth and steady footage even as I walked around. The 360-degree capability allowed me to capture immersive videos that I could later reframe and edit, providing endless creative possibilities.
The camera performed exceptionally well in various lighting conditions, thanks to its new, larger sensors and enhanced processing capabilities. The footage was crisp, with vibrant colors and excellent detail. I experimented with different shooting modes, including time-lapse and photo mode, and was thoroughly impressed with the results.
It will take some time to figure out the optimal camera placement to capture the perfect footage during my future travels.
Ready for Adventure
With my new Insta360 X4 in hand, I’m now more excited than ever to get my hands on my new motorcycle, whether it’s the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 or the CFMoto 450MT. This camera will undoubtedly be an invaluable tool in documenting my adventures, from scenic rides through the countryside to off-road escapades.
Final Thoughts
There's definitely a learning curve when it comes to post-production and reframing all your shots without worrying about the point-and-shoot aspect at the start. If you’re in the market for a top-notch 360 action camera, the Insta360 X4 should be at the top of your list.
Hey HIVE community!
Aaron✌🏻 here, proud member of Team Malaysia, straight from the heart of the magical Borneo Island. Now, I'm calling the vibrant concrete skyscraper cityscape of Kuala Lumpur home.
Hope you enjoyed reading on my little adventure as much as I enjoyed experiencing it! If you liked my writing, feel free to give it an upvote or reblog it with your community. Got any questions or want to know more? Just drop them in the comments below - I’d love to hear from you! Thanks so much for stopping by, and I truly appreciate all your support.