Insta360 X6 Review (2026): A Great 360 and Action Camera Hybrid

The Insta360 X6 camera aims to surpass its competitors, such as DJI and GoPro, with its enhanced features. The camera boasts a larger sensor, faster video frame rates, improved low-light performance, and efficient editing tools. Although it does not offer drastic changes from its predecessor, the X6 provides several noteworthy upgrades that may make upgrading worthwhile for certain users.

With a design reminiscent of the X5 and GoPro Max 2, the X6 is shorter, squatter, and slightly wider than its predecessor. The reduced size comes with a smaller screen and the absence of physical buttons at the bottom. However, the smaller screen doesn't significantly hinder the user experience as the primary purpose of a 360 camera is to avoid framing the subject.

One of the most advantageous additions is the inclusion of power contact points on the bottom, allowing users to attach a powered selfie stick and charge the camera while filming. Despite the absence of physical buttons, the on-screen buttons provide haptic feedback, although they are sometimes slower to respond compared to the X5's physical buttons. The X6 also features replaceable lens covers, which are reportedly harder than those of previous models.

The IP68 rating suggests that the camera is dustproof and waterproof, with the ability to withstand pressures equivalent to 66 feet. The battery has also been redesigned, now functioning independently rather than being part of the battery door. This change enables the possibility of using the same battery across different Insta360 cameras, such as the Ace Pro 2.

The battery size has also increased from 2,400 mAh to 2,600 mAh, while the sensor has upgraded to a 1/1.1-inch sensor, similar to the one in the DJI Osmo 360, potentially delivering sharper, clearer video.

Despite the marginal improvement in video quality, the X6 excels at low-light conditions compared to its predecessors, as well as the X5 and GoPro Max 2. However, the colors may appear slightly inaccurate under low-light conditions. The X6 offers a single-lens mode, a feature that aims to make it a versatile action camera alternative.

It can record up to 5K video in single-lens mode (up from 4K in the X5) and offers InstaFrame 2.0, which simultaneously records both 360 video and single-lens footage. This feature simplifies editing by providing a flat file option, and the 4K single-lens recording (up to 8K at 30 frames per second) in 360 mode proves to be quite useful.