DJI Pocket 3 vs Insta360 X3 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

Camera

DJI Pocket 3 & Insta360 X3 share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the DJI Pocket 3 rather than the Insta360 X3

Why Do I Recommend The DJI Pocket 3

  • The DJI Pocket 3 features a 1-inch CMOS sensor to capture more light and detail for superior image quality and low-light performance, compared to the Insta360 X3’s smaller dual 1/2″ sensors.
  • DJI Pocket 3 has a 3-axis mechanical gimbal for real-time stabilization to deliver smoother and more cinematic video footage, compared to the digital-only stabilization in the Insta360 X3.
  • It supports 4K video at 120fps that enables ultra-smooth slow-motion recording for dynamic visual storytelling, compared to the Insta360 X3’s 5.7K 30fps 360 mode and limited slow-motion options.
  • The DJI Pocket 3 includes a rotatable 2-inch OLED touchscreen for flexible framing and intuitive control from any shooting angle, compared to the fixed screen on the Insta360 X3.
  • DJI Pocket 3 comes with native livestreaming support that enables creators to broadcast directly to platforms like YouTube or Facebook in real time, which the Insta360 X3 lacks without third-party workarounds.
  • It features fast USB-C PD charging that recharges up to 80% in around 16 minutes to minimize downtime during shoots, compared to the slower charging time of the Insta360 X3.
  • The DJI Pocket 3 has a built-in 3.5mm mic port and wireless DJI Mic compatibility that ensures professional-grade audio recording with low latency, while the Insta360 X3 only supports Bluetooth mics.
  • DJI Pocket 3 includes face tracking and subject tracking with precise autofocus that helps maintain focus on the subject during movement, compared to the post-processed tracking in the Insta360 X3.

Maybe the Insta360 X3 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the DJI Pocket 3. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

.

Side By Side Comparison

Feature DJI Pocket 3 Insta360 X3
Camera Type Gimbal camera 360 dual-lens action camera
Sensor Size 1-inch CMOS Dual 1/2″ CMOS
Lens Type Single wide-angle Dual fisheye
Max Video Resolution 4K 120fps 5.7K 30fps
Photo Resolution 9.4MP 72MP (stitched)
Stabilization Type 3-axis gimbal FlowState digital
Touchscreen 2-inch rotatable OLED 2.29-inch fixed touchscreen
Field of View 108° 360°
Slow Motion 4K@120fps 4K@100fps (Me Mode), 3K@100fps
Livestreaming Yes No
Built-in Mics 3-mic array 4-mic array
Audio Input 3.5mm + wireless mic support Bluetooth mic support
Voice Control No Yes
Battery Life ~166 mins ~81 mins (5.7K)
Charging Time ~16 mins ~90 mins full charge
Mounting System 1/4” built-in thread Magnetic mount system
ISO Range 100–6400 100–3200 (photo), 100–6400 (video)
Night Mode Yes Yes
HDR Video Yes Yes
Storage Type microSD microSD
File Formats MP4 INSV, MP4, JPG, DNG
App Integration DJI Mimo Insta360 App
Editing Tools Basic in-app tools Advanced AI reframing, Shot Lab
Shooting Modes Normal, Slow Motion, Timelapse 360, Me Mode, Bullet Time, Loop
GPS Via smartphone Via optional GPS Remote
Weight ~179g ~180g
Price Check DJI Pocket 3 Price Check Insta360 X3 Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Portability: Both the DJI Pocket 3 and Insta360 X3 are ultra-portable and pocket-sized cameras, making them ideal for creators on the go. Their compact size enables quick setup for travel vlogs, action shots, and spontaneous content creation.
  • Touchscreen Interface: Each device features a color touchscreen that enables users to preview footage, access shooting modes, and adjust settings easily without needing a smartphone.
  • Voice Enhancement Mics: Both include built-in microphone arrays (3 for DJI, 4 for Insta360) designed to reduce wind noise and enhance voice pickup, ideal for vlogging or outdoor narration.
  • High Frame Rate Video: These cameras support high frame rate recording—DJI up to 120fps in 4K, Insta360 up to 100fps in various creative modes—useful for smooth slow-motion content.
  • HDR Video Capability: Each camera supports HDR video for improved dynamic range. DJI uses a D-Log M color profile, while Insta360 uses Active HDR to preserve highlights and shadows.
  • Photo & Video Modes: Time-lapse, panoramic photos, and slow-motion video recording are supported on both models, providing a versatile toolkit for cinematic storytelling.
  • Smartphone App Support: Both rely on companion apps (DJI Mimo and Insta360 App) to edit videos, transfer footage, update firmware, and access advanced features.
  • Wireless Mic Compatibility: Each model supports wireless audio solutions for clear voice recording. DJI integrates with its DJI Mic system; Insta360 supports Bluetooth microphones and dedicated accessories.
  • MicroSD Storage: Both use microSD cards for recording, supporting high-capacity cards for extended shooting sessions without interruption.
  • Selfie & Vlogging Features: DJI Pocket 3 uses its rotatable screen and subject tracking for self-filming, while Insta360 X3 uses Me Mode and AI tracking to frame the user in 360 footage.
  • Built-in Stabilization: Each camera provides stabilization—DJI with a mechanical 3-axis gimbal and Insta360 with advanced FlowState digital stabilization—for smooth, shake-free footage.
  • Tripod/Accessory Mounting: Both can be mounted to standard 1/4” tripod mounts, allowing users to attach them to tripods, selfie sticks, or mounting rigs.
  • USB-C Charging: Modern USB-C charging is available on both devices, ensuring quick and universal power delivery.
  • Social Media Ready Output: Both devices are optimized for mobile-first content creators, with easy exports and editing features for sharing vertical and horizontal videos directly to platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube.
  • Firmware Updates via App: Each camera regularly receives firmware updates via its respective mobile app, enhancing performance and unlocking new creative functions.

Common Features

Feature DJI Pocket 3 Insta360 X3
Portability Yes Yes
Touchscreen Interface Yes Yes
Voice Enhancement Mics Yes Yes
High Frame Rate Video Yes Yes
HDR Video Capability Yes Yes
Photo & Video Modes Yes Yes
Smartphone App Support Yes Yes
Wireless Mic Compatibility Yes Yes
MicroSD Storage Yes Yes
Selfie & Vlogging Features Yes Yes
Built-in Stabilization Yes Yes
Tripod/Accessory Mounting Yes Yes
USB-C Charging Yes Yes
Social Media Ready Output Yes Yes
Firmware Updates via App Yes Yes
Price Check DJI Pocket 3 Price Check Insta360 X3 Price

FAQ

Which camera is better for cinematic vlogging – DJI Pocket 3 or Insta360 X3?
The DJI Pocket 3 is better for cinematic vlogging due to its 1-inch sensor, 3-axis mechanical gimbal, and rotatable screen, delivering higher-quality stabilized video with natural depth and color.

Can both the DJI Pocket 3 and Insta360 X3 shoot in 4K?
Yes, both cameras can shoot in 4K, but the DJI Pocket 3 can record up to 4K at 120fps while the Insta360 X3 captures 4K in specific modes like Me Mode or 5.7K in 360 mode.

Is the Insta360 X3 waterproof without a case?
Yes, the Insta360 X3 is waterproof up to 10 meters (33 feet) without requiring an external housing, making it ideal for water-based activities.

Does the DJI Pocket 3 support livestreaming?
Yes, the DJI Pocket 3 supports livestreaming via the DJI Mimo app, allowing you to broadcast directly to platforms like YouTube and Facebook.

Which camera has better low-light performance?
The DJI Pocket 3 has better low-light performance because it features a larger 1-inch sensor that captures more light and detail in dim environments.

Can you reframe videos after shooting with both cameras?
No, reframing is only available with the Insta360 X3. It captures 360-degree footage that can be edited later to frame any perspective using the Insta360 app.

Do both cameras support external microphones?
Yes, both cameras support external audio input. The DJI Pocket 3 has a 3.5mm jack and wireless mic support, while the Insta360 X3 supports Bluetooth microphones and accessories.

Which camera has a larger touchscreen display?
The Insta360 X3 has a slightly larger 2.29-inch touchscreen, while the DJI Pocket 3 has a 2.0-inch rotatable OLED screen that provides more flexibility in viewing angles.

Can I use voice commands with either device?
Voice control is available on the Insta360 X3, allowing hands-free operation. The DJI Pocket 3 does not support voice commands.

Which camera is more beginner-friendly?
The DJI Pocket 3 is generally more beginner-friendly for traditional shooting due to its gimbal stabilization, straightforward UI, and ease of use for standard vlogs.

Do both cameras support mobile editing through apps?
Yes, both cameras support editing through their companion apps—DJI Mimo for the Pocket 3 and the Insta360 app for the X3—enabling trimming, reframing, filters, and export.

Can I mount both cameras to tripods or accessories?
Yes, both cameras can be mounted to tripods. The DJI Pocket 3 has a built-in 1/4″ thread, while the Insta360 X3 requires an accessory bracket to attach to standard mounts.

Which camera is better for action shots?
The Insta360 X3 is better for action shots due to its waterproof build, rugged design, and 360° capture capabilities, allowing you to reframe the best angle after the fact.

Do both devices support fast charging?
The DJI Pocket 3 supports fast charging and can reach 80% in approximately 16 minutes with a PD charger. The Insta360 X3 has slower charging and takes about 90 minutes for a full charge.

Which camera provides better audio recording out of the box?
The Insta360 X3 typically provides better audio with its 4-mic array and wind noise reduction in post-processing, though both are improved when paired with external microphones.

Leave a Reply