
DJI Pocket 3 vs Insta360 X3 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?
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.
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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? Can both the DJI Pocket 3 and Insta360 X3 shoot in 4K? Is the Insta360 X3 waterproof without a case? Does the DJI Pocket 3 support livestreaming? Which camera has better low-light performance? Can you reframe videos after shooting with both cameras? Do both cameras support external microphones? Which camera has a larger touchscreen display? Can I use voice commands with either device? Which camera is more beginner-friendly? Do both cameras support mobile editing through apps? Can I mount both cameras to tripods or accessories? Which camera is better for action shots? Do both devices support fast charging? Which camera provides better audio recording out of the box? |