Insta360 Ace Pro Review
The Insta360 Ace Pro is the company’s latest flagship that hits hard at the competition. Top-tier specs leave little room for improvement, and the Ace Pro’s main attraction, the superb low-light performance, makes it a key contender for vloggers and action sports enthusiasts who want to capture at all times of the day. After testing in various challenging environments, it’s time for my Ace Pro review.
Checking boxes
Insta360 is experienced enough to know what consumers want from an action cam in 2024. A big sensor allowing capture of up to 8K, a super-fast 5nm chip enabling rapid functionality and processing, a big 2.4” flip-up touchscreen, waterproofing and rugged construction, and bigger battery life (complemented by 30 W fast charging). However, for me, it’s all about the unique software modes available, as FreeFrame allows users to tweak framing in post and PureVideo enables unmatched low-light performance. These two modes do limit the captured resolution to 4K, but that is a non-issue for me as it remains the highest standard for YouTube production.
Speaking of unique software, the Insta360 Ace Pro can also be used with the official phone app. This allows for file management, yes, but also lets users edit their videos in-app. The editing process can be sped up using automatic editing, creating a montage of the most exciting moments. A.I. can also be used to generate cool filters.
Killer features
In use, the Insta360 Ace Pro performs flawlessly with no overheating issues, even in the hotter U.K. weather. I reliably use the FreeFrame mode to capture content without needing to worry about proper framing. This has come in clutch while recording a climb and looking down at my feet too much. In post, I can reframe to make the camera look up more, capturing more of the beautiful landscape.
When it comes to filming after sunset or in darker environments, the PureVideo shines bright. This is arguably the most important feature boasted by the Ace Pro. I don’t know exactly how the camera does it, but it lights up dark environments and brings out more detail beyond what I ever thought possible from such a small device. Normally, I avoid filming in the evenings and often don’t even take a camera with me. However, with the Ace Pro, I can record at any time of day without worrying about lighting conditions.
The limitations
For most of my testing, I used the Insta360 Ace Pro in its FreeFrame and PureVideo modes. These modes are limited to 4K at 60 FPS. While this is perfect for my needs, those determined to record in 8K will be limited to 24 FPS and won’t be able to take advantage of the killer software features.
Another potential sticking point is the waterproofing. The Ace Pro is rated for 10 meters of depth without the dive case (sold separately). Adding the dive case boosts the depth rating to 60 meters.
Final Verdict
At $449.99, the Insta360 Ace Pro is priced high alongside other action camera flagships. It’s clear that Insta360 isn’t afraid of pricing high and attempting to justify that with some unique killer software features. Will that be enough to pull people away from more established brands like GoPro? I think, for those who value low-light performance and the FreeFrame editing-in-post feature, Insta360 could well be worth the move.
While I’m not as sold on the “A.I.” features, I’m still very happy with the hardware on offer here, which is perfectly complemented by smooth software that really helps users capture action with as little friction as possible.
Positives and Negatives
Superb low-light performance is close to magic.
FreeFrame can be a life-saver.
Screen is big and beautiful.
High resolution and frame rates.
Solid build quality.
8K resolution is limited to 24 FPS.
Higher price point.
A.I. features are pretty gimmicky.
9
Disclosure: Review sample provided by Insta360.
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