During the daytime, the footage is outstanding.
The bigger-than-average sensor leads to a longer-than-average minimum focus distance however, which might not suit vloggers.
But it does have some neat features that make it even more suited to other tasks.
James Bruce / MakeUseOf
All are covered securely with a tight-fitting waterproof cover.
Out of the box, it’s waterproof to 10m, and adive case is availableto dive down further.
The Ace Pro also features two screens.
The Insta360 Ace Pro offers a headline 8K24 recording, though you’re more likely to use the myriad other 4K modes—including a new PureVideo 4K30 that’s ideal for low light situations. The bigger-than-average sensor leads to a longer-than-average minimum focus distance however, which might not suit vloggers. But for everyone else, the superb image quality combined with AI-enhanced software and shot templates puts this at least equal with the best action cameras on the market today.
The first is the main screen around the rear, a color touchscreen measuring 2.42 inches.
Push it in firmly until youve heard a hit both sides, or accidents will happen.
My test unit was sent alongside amultifunction selfie stick and mini tripodcobranded with Pgytech.
The Insta360 Ace Pro offers a headline 8K24 recording, though you’re more likely to use the myriad other 4K modes—including a new PureVideo 4K30 that’s ideal for low light situations. The bigger-than-average sensor leads to a longer-than-average minimum focus distance however, which might not suit vloggers. But for everyone else, the superb image quality combined with AI-enhanced software and shot templates puts this at least equal with the best action cameras on the market today.
Insta360s best prior offering was the 1-inch sensor in the modularOne R with a 1-inch Leica mod.
Unfortunately, the lens guard isn’t removable, which might be a deal breaker for some thrillseekers.
Insta360 offers a one-year free replacement if you do manage to scratch it.
James Bruce / MakeUseOf
The larger sensor is what enables a headline-grabbing 8K24 resolution, though its usefulness is debatable.
On the Ace Pro, this is combined with a new dedicated 5nm AI chip for image enhancement.
I wasn’t disappointed on any front.
James Bruce / MakeUseOf
The lack of LOG recording might be a dealbreaker for you, however.
To test it out, I attempted to film my Christmas lights using all the various modes.
The only light source was a few fairy light strings.
James Bruce / MakeUseOf
4K60 was much the same.
For comparison’s sake, here’s the same video freezeframe taken from an iPhone 15 Pro Max.
It’s more tightly cropped, but the quality is just as good.
James Bruce / MakeUseOf
Officially, on the Ace Pro, the minimum focus is 40cm or 1.3 feet.
In testing, it seems a bit longer.
The base Ace model is listed as 60cm, or around 2 feet.
James Bruce / MakeUseOf
Once enabled, itll automatically flag parts of your video.
you might manually mark points of interest, too.
Its ideal to jazz up an exciting clip to post on your Instagram or other social feeds.
James Bruce / MakeUseOf
In addition to the smartphone app, Insta360 provides desktop software.
The smartphone app is limited to 1080p.
The Ace Pro has one final trick up its sleeve: the ability to use it as a webcam.
4K30, low light video sample (James Bruce / MakeUseOf)
Im sure a handful of users worldwide will find that useful.
Should You Buy the Insta360 Ace Pro?
Both offer something genuinely unique to compete with the smartphone that’s already in your pocket.
4K30 PureVideo mode (James Bruce / MakeUseOf)
Id recommend ignoring the 8K video mode, even if it is the headline feature.
Given the unpredictable results from 8K, its best ignored.
For low-light situations, the PureVideo mode is stunningly good.
iPhone 15 Pro Max 4K60 (James Bruce / MakeUseOf)
It’ll be a huge benefit if you struggle to shoot your action videos at night.
As a general-use or vlogging camera, though, the Ace Pro makes less sense.
Its not a bad choice for a small pocket camera, but its hard to justify the price.
AcePro vlogging freeze frame in PureVideo mode (James Bruce / MakeUseOf)
James Bruce / MakeUseOf
