6 best 360 degree cameras in 2019

The first generation of 360-degree cameras is basically an expensive 'toy' with limited applications. Currently, technology has grown, things start to become more interesting.

The latest generation of omnidirectional video cameras has better sensors and higher resolutions. In addition, the anti-shake when recording video also contributes to the incredible scenes. Also, you can do things that conventional cameras can't do.

But where is the right choice for you? Here are the best 360-degree cameras available. Let's find out with TipsMake.com !

Why buy a 360-degree camera?

The camera can record 360-degree scenes with at least two lenses, one in the front and one in the back. These lenses record wide-angle video. After that, the camera merges scenes back together to create a final 360-degree image.

This brings many benefits. You do not need to adjust the camera to record everything around. You can then edit the footage to create your video.

Most 360-degree cameras do not have a live preview screen, but this feature is usually provided through an accompanying smartphone application. This has allowed camera manufacturers to be more compact and improved. These devices can record videos and take photos.

Most cameras will allow you to export videos normally in 16: 9 format or square format to share on the web. Many models even offer you 360-degree video files to immerse yourself in virtual reality scenes. Besides the technical benefits, 360-degree camera is also a very interesting entertainment tool.

Top 6 best 360-degree cameras today

1. Insta360 One X

Reference price: $ 399.95 (9.300.000VND).

Insta360 One X is one of the most popular cameras of this type. Insta360 One X is 'successor' for Insta360 One and has many improved features. One X can record 5,7K videos at 30 frames per second or 4K video at 50 frames per second (PAL standard) and 18MP still images.

Insta360 One X also performs excellent video stabilization. This is why many people turn to One X when looking for a 360-degree camera. If you want to maximize the potential of images, you can record LOG video and RAW images.

Insta360 One X has HDR mode and all camera functions can be controlled manually using the included application. It is also the application that you will edit and export videos. This is one of the most intuitive applications on the market.

You can use the app to select videos to share from your 360-degree footage, including hyperlapse clips (changing the time effects that the naked eye sees) stable, where you can do Slow and speed up to get the final finished product look more professional. One drawback in Insta360 One X must be recharged every 40 minutes.

Overall, Insta360 One X is an impressive product with a great bundled mobile app and a reasonable price.

2. Insta360 EVO

Reference price: $ 623.39 (VND 14,500,000).

Insta360 EVO is an action camera with unique hinge design. The hinge design gives you the flexibility to shoot 180-degree videos in stereoscopic 3D mode or full 360-degree video in 2D format. Most EVO features are similar to One X, with 5.7K video at 30 frames per second, 4K video at 50 frames per second and 18MP stills.

EVO also uses smooth vibration protection, similar to that in One X. Insta360 EVO has both RAW and LOG video capabilities. If One X is an action camera, then EVO is a camera that helps create videos to watch in VR (virtual reality). 180-degree 3D footage will really stand out on VR headsets compared to flat 360-degree footage.

One X has the advantage if you want to share footage in standard size format. However, if you want to use VR completely, EVO's 3D capabilities are hard to beat.

3. Ricoh Theta Z1

Reference price: $ 780 (VND 18,140,000).

What makes the uniqueness of Ricoh Theta Z1 is that it contains the largest sensor among the 360-degree consumer cameras available on the market. One-inch sensor, combined with Ricoh's quality optical system, delivers the best image quality.

This large sensor will be very helpful in low light conditions, especially at night. Larger sensors mean better color reproduction, losing less detail in dark and bright areas. The Dynamic range of Ricoh Theta Z1 is also much improved compared to the standard 1 / 2.3-inch sensor, making video and still images look better than many conventional cameras.

Despite the high image quality, Z1 only output 4K video at 30 frames per second, with the option of shooting 2K at the same frame rate. Still images are captured at 23MP resolution.

Mobile application Theta + is a great 'companion' for 360-degree video recording and sharing of works. You can see Theta Z1 as a prosumer camera (digital camera for semi-professional users). Theta Z1 costs nearly twice as much as Insta 360 One X, but if the benefit from the sensor is a top priority for you, this is an option worth considering.

4. GoPro Fusion

Reference price: $ 399 (VND 9,280,000).

GoPro Fusion is the first 360-degree camera of GoPro company. GoPro is a well-known name in the consumer camera market and Fusion doesn't disappoint users by offering 5,8K video options at 24 frames per second, 5.2K at 30 frames per second and 3K videos. at a speed of 60 frames per second.

Fusion is equipped with a decent lens, which means that the video quality is very good, especially with such a small sensor size. Like GoPro's HERO camera, Fusion uses impressive anti-shake techniques to soothe collisions without the need for a gimbal (the device is able to prevent camera shake when shooting).

Still image size is quite low, only 18 megapixels, but still on the general market level. GoPro Fusion camera is waterproof, with rubber cover and support for GoPro mounting system. This makes it easier to add Fusion to the setup, if you already own a GoPro camera.

Unfortunately, the GoPro Fusion desktop application has become a subject of criticism. Users reflect that the application connects and handles scenes very slowly. However, GoPro Fusion is still an attractive option, especially water resistant.

5. Rylo 360

Reference price: $ 470.35 (VND 10,940,000).

The Rylo 360 has impressive resolution and image quality like the GoPro camera. Besides being excellent vibration resistance. These features are ideal, because the Rylo 360 has been designed as an action camera.

The bundled app is highly appreciated for its intuitive design and user-friendliness. You can use it to create interesting videos from 360-degree scenes by adjusting scenes, changing playback speed and making color corrections before exporting to the device.

It is worth noting that this companion application cannot directly preview what the Rylo 360 is recording. This is not a problem with 360-degree video because you can adjust it in post-production. However, it is worth noting that similar cameras offer live preview, while Rylo 360 does not.

6. Garmin VIRB 360

Reference price: $ 639.99 (VND 14,885,000).

Garmin VIRB 360 is a very solid 360-degree action camera. Garmin VIRB 360 has a waterproof design with a replaceable lens, perfect if you encounter any risks along the way. VIRB 360 records 5.7K video at 30 frames per second, featuring 4K spherical stabilization and 360-degree audio.

What makes VIRB 360 stand out is thanks to a range of sensors, including manometers, accelerometers, gyroscopes and GPS sensors. With additional data recorded, you can put information such as speed or location on the map on your video.

VIRB 360 is quite expensive compared to some other options and this software has a weakness (according to many reviews). Those issues are not important. Sensors allow you to get more than just video and audio.

The 360-degree cameras introduced in the article are very suitable for photographers who want to test new stills and video capture features.

Once you've chosen a 360-degree camera that's right for you, you'll want to start creating your own works!

Wish you find the right product!