Compact 360° and VR180 Cameras Tested

Our Testrig

Finding the Best Image Quality and Flexibility

Capturing immersive content in tight spaces like helicopter cockpits or fighter jets requires compact cameras that don’t compromise on quality. In this test, we evaluated the Insta360 X4, Insta360 One RS 1-Inch 360 Edition, Qoocam Ultra 3, and a DIY Dual GoPro VR180 Rig to find the most flexible system with the best image quality.

All footage was processed to Rec. 709 without custom grading to ensure a fair comparison. The results can be viewed in a Comparison video on YouTube, ideal for experiencing the differences in quality on VR headsets like the Meta Quest 3 and Apple Vision Pro.

UPDATE (05.01.2025): Here is the Link to the Videos in MV-HEVC for Apple Vision Pro and the Prores LT Version as mov. (Sadly the Gopros aren’t perfectly synced because one Frame took several seconds for a preview on the M1 Macbook Air, maybe we will update this when there ist time to do it on our Workstation. Note: The Footage from the DualQoocam Rig is very noisy with ISO 400, the environment was almost a night scene, was shot in K-LOG and -2+EV.

The Test: Workflow and Processing

Each camera was tested in challenging conditions with direct sunlight to assess dynamic range, stitching quality, and clarity. The footage was processed as follows:

• Insta360 Cameras: Processed in Insta360 Studio and exported as ProRes 422.

• Qoocam Ultra 3: Processed in Kandao Qoocam Studio and exported as ProRes 422.

• Dual GoPro Rig: Footage was stitched using Kartaverse Tools in DaVinci Resolve as Raw mp4

The Results

Insta360 One RS 1-Inch: The Aging Mini-Pro

Once hailed as a "mini-pro" camera, the One RS 1-Inch struggles to keep up in 2024.

• Max Resolution: 5.7K at 30fps.

• Image Quality: Soft details and uninspiring color.

• Low-Light: Marginally better due to its larger sensor but not enough to justify its shortcomings.

Verdict: Outdated and outperformed, this camera no longer lives up to its professional reputation.

Insta360 X4: Reliable but Limited

The Insta360 X4 shines as a consumer-friendly option with 8K at 30fps and excellent stitching, especially in tight environments.

• Strengths: Simple workflow, good resolution, and reliable performance.

• Weaknesses: No log profile or advanced color grading options, limiting its use in professional workflows.

Verdict: A solid option for casual projects but lacks the flexibility and finesse professionals demand.

Qoocam Ultra 3: A Professional’s Compact Dream

With 8K resolution, log and HLG support, and high dynamic range modes, the Qoocam Ultra 3 delivers outstanding results.

• Standout Feature: The 5.7K at 60fps mode, downsampled from 8K, is perfect for capturing smooth motion in dynamic environments.

• Strengths: Excellent image quality, pro-level features, and versatile dynamic range controls.

• Weaknesses: Stitching can be tricky in tight spaces, and the fixed aggressive digital sharpening can be a minor annoyance.

Verdict: The best image quality in the test, ideal for professionals focused on 360° production.

Dual GoPro VR180 Rig: Affordable and Sharp

Our DIY rig, built with two GoPro Hero 12 cameras, offers an accessible entry point to professional VR180 content creation.

Strengths:

• High bitrates of up to 200 Mbps for Hero 12 and 300 Mbps for Hero 13 per camera/eye.

• Gives you 5312x4648 30F or 3840x3360 60F on 177° FOV per eye! (VR180)

• Log profiles for creative flexibility.

• Budget-friendly at just around €1,000, making it a cost-effective solution.

Weaknesses: Post-production is more complex, as stitching requires careful handling in DaVinci Resolve using Kartaverse Tools.

Verdict: For its price, this rig delivers exceptional sharpness and versatility, though it doesn’t eliminate workflow challenges entirely.

What’s Next? Exploring a Dual Qoocam VR180 Rig

Given the Qoocam Ultra 3’s performance, a custom Dual Qoocam VR180 Rig is worth exploring. While this setup wouldn’t solve all workflow challenges, it could leverage the Qoocam’s superior image quality, log profiles, and high-resolution capabilities to offer a professional VR180 alternative. A head-to-head comparison with the Dual GoPro Rig would reveal which system offers the best balance of quality and usability.

Conclusion: Compact Cameras for Every Workflow

All cameras in this test are consumer/prosumer systems, yet they offer impressive results for their size:

• The Qoocam Ultra 3 is the clear winner for 360° professionals, delivering unmatched quality in a portable form.

• The Dual GoPro VR180 Rig stands out for VR180 projects, offering sharp, detailed footage with excellent flexibility at an affordable price.

For those with Apple Vision Pro, the footage is also available to download and watch with our app, Spatial Player Pro, for immersive playback in a custom-branded environment.

Watch the Comparison

Check out the Comparison video on YouTube to see these cameras in action. Test the footage on your VR headset and experience the differences yourself.

Which camera or setup do you prefer? And what would you like to see from a Dual Qoocam Rig? Let us know in the comments!