Insta360 GO 3 Review: Unleashing the Power of the Compact Action Camera

Insta360 GO 3 Review: A Compact Action Camera that Packs a Punch

In the world of action cameras, size and portability are paramount. Insta360, a well-known player in the action camera market, has recently released the highly anticipated Insta360 GO 3. This compact yet powerful device has been making waves due to its impressive features and enhanced capabilities. In this comprehensive review, we will delve into the key improvements and additions that make the Insta360 GO 3 a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the Insta360 GO 2.

1. Design and Build Quality

The Insta360 GO 3 retains the lightweight and compact design that made its predecessor a favorite among adventure enthusiasts. However, one noticeable change is its increased size, which allows for improved features and performance. The camera boasts a sleek and durable exterior, crafted from high-quality materials that exude a premium feel. The matte finish and minimalist design contribute to its overall aesthetic appeal. Although the camera body of the Insta360 GO 3 looks and feels similar to its predecessor, the two cams are significantly different in some key areas. The GO 3 is 9g heavier than the GO 2 (35.5g vs 26.5g) and has a longer battery life (45 mins vs 30 mins). The new camera is waterproof to 5m (16.4ft).

From an operational point of view, the Insta360 GO 3 is very similar to the GO 2 in the sense that there is only one button and two modes on the action cam itself. There is still no display on the device, and the battery isn't replaceable either, which is a shame, as this means once the GO 3 is out of juice, you'll have to pop it in the Action Pod for charging.

2. Insta360 Go 3 price, availability

Insta360 Go 3 pricing starts at $379 (roughly Rs. 31,100) for the base 32GB storage model, while the 64GB and 128GB models are priced at $399 (roughly Rs. 32,700) and $429 (roughly Rs. 35,200), respectively. It will be available for purchase via the Insta360 website. Details of pricing and availability of the Insta360 Go 3 in India are yet to be announced by the company.

The Insta360 GO 3 was announced in June 2023 and is available to buy now at Insta360 with prices from $380/ £380/ AU$ 659. It's a significant price bump from the GO 2, which retailed for £295/ $300/ AU$ 480. It comes in three versions, the only difference being the memory capacity (32BG, 64GB and 128GB).

3. Enhanced Camera Performance

The Insta360 GO 3 features a powerful 1/2.3-inch sensor, capable of capturing stunning 1440p footage at 50 frames per second (fps). This upgrade ensures sharper and more detailed video quality, enabling users to document their adventures with impressive clarity. Additionally, the camera's image stabilization technology has been significantly improved, resulting in smoother footage even during fast-paced activities. The camera can operate independently from the case, so you can control the camera from afar with the case, and even preview the footage using the 2.2-inch screen. The addition of a screen is a game changer for the Go series, as previously, you couldn't see your footage until after the fact. Battery life is good, allowing the camera to shoot about 40 minutes on a single charge, but the case adds another four charges.

While I really like the Go 3, I do think it has lost some of the ultra-portability of the first two cameras. The Go 3 camera by itself at 35g is still very, very light. But the case with the screen weighs 96.3g, so combined it's now a package that weighs 130-ish grams and measures 63.5 x 47.6 x 29.5mm. It basically feels like a GoPro.

5. Extended Battery Life

One of the most notable enhancements in the Insta360 GO 3 is its extended battery life. With a larger battery capacity, users can now record up to 60 minutes of continuous footage, a substantial improvement over the previous model. This upgrade addresses one of the primary concerns of action camera users who often require longer recording times without the need for frequent recharging.

6. Intuitive User Experience

Insta360 has always prioritized user experience, and the GO 3 is no exception. The camera is equipped with a touch-sensitive button, allowing users to navigate through various shooting modes effortlessly. Furthermore, the Insta360 app offers a seamless and intuitive interface, providing users with extensive control over the camera's settings, editing capabilities, and easy sharing options.

7. Immersive and Interactive Features

The Insta360 GO 3 introduces a range of exciting features designed to enhance user creativity and engagement. The camera supports 360-degree capture, enabling users to explore new perspectives and create immersive content. The innovative FlashCut AI algorithm automatically selects the best moments from recorded footage and generates captivating edits, simplifying the editing process for users. Additionally, the upgraded FlowState stabilization ensures smooth and steady footage, eliminating the need for additional stabilizing accessories.

8. Connectivity and Storage

The Insta360 GO 3 offers improved connectivity options to cater to the diverse needs of users. With built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities, users can effortlessly connect the camera to their smartphones, enabling real-time previewing, remote control, and seamless transfer of media files. The camera also supports fast USB-C charging and allows for data transfer via USB-C for added convenience. In terms of storage, the Insta360 GO 3 comes with a 64GB internal storage capacity, providing ample space for capturing and storing footage.

You can watch detailed review video here:

Conclusion

The Insta360 GO 3 is a remarkable addition to the action camera market, combining portability, enhanced features, and outstanding performance. With its improved camera capabilities, extended battery life, and intuitive user experience, it sets a new benchmark for compact action cameras. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, vlogger, or simply an adventure seeker, the Insta360 GO 3 is a reliable companion that captures your memories with unparalleled precision and convenience.