Insta360 Nano
Highlights
- Turn an iPhone into a 360 camera
- Extremely portable
- Upgradable memory up to 64GB
Overview
The Insta360 Nano is an incredibly inexpensive way to step into the world of 360 video and images. At the time of writing, you can typically find the device at around $75-100. This device plugs right into any iPhone as recent as the iPhone 6, and the free app allows you to preview the content in real-time. This camera can also be used without iPhone, but then you can't preview and you will need to sync up the photos later. The phone app also allows livestreaming. The kit includes a VR viewer that works with any phone.
For the price, the images are impressive, but they aren't great - especially if you zoom in. The video resolution is around 3K, which would be okay for a regular viewing field, but really substandard for a 360 video. The result is a lot of graininess, and this will not look like an HD video (4K is really the minimum resolution for a decent 360 video). The stitching is actually better than some of the higher end cameras. This camera performs a poorly in low light settings, but color contrast and detail is much better in an outdoor setting.
The phone pairs with a dedicated app, which will launch when you plug the camera into the phone. The app is easy to use - and I might even say that it is fun. For the price, this camera is a bargain, especially considering it comes with a nice-looking VR viewer similar to a google cardboard (a $15 accessory). If you want to start exploring 360 with very little financial commitment, then this is an ideal starting point.
With all of this said, I would highly recommend that people consider the Nano S. See the review:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Easy recording | Only fits iPhone |
| Adjust brightness, resolution, ISO from app | Incredibly entry-level quality resolution 3040x1520 (about 3K) |
| Simple to use | Poor low light shooting |
| Surprisingly decent stitching | Have to remove phone case to use |
| Real-time preview |
Some review claim the device is not durable |
| Upload or livestream to Facebook from app | Takes hours to charge, and drains phone battery when in use (and phone overheats) |