Insights

Review: Insta360 X3 and Invisible Dive Kit

August 28, 2023

Having thoroughly enjoyed the incredible experience with the Insta360 ONE X2 on countless surfing adventures, my anticipation was already high when I received the latest Insta360 X3. The excitement doubled when I got my hands on the recently launched Invisible Dive Kit. This cutting-edge accessory, tailor-made for the X3, allows this dynamic camera to flawlessly unleash its full potential underwater. Now, envision capturing awe-inspiring 360-degree underwater footage with the same ease and convenience that made us fall in love with the ONE X2. Embark with me on a journey into the depths as I explore the underwater realm with the new Insta360 X3 and the Invisible Dive Kit.

About Insta360

Insta360 stands at the forefront of innovation in the world of content creation. Rooted in the philosophy to “Think bold,” the company constantly pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in action cameras, 360 cameras, and traditional videography. Their mission is to assist a diverse community of athletes, creatives, adventure seekers, and professionals in capturing and sharing the moments that define their lives.

Introducing Insta360 X3

INSTA360 X3: a 360 Creative Powerhouse

The Insta360 X3 sets itself apart with its 360-degree capture feature. The ‘shoot first, point later’ philosophy lets you record in 5.7K Active HDR video and take 72MP photos. You can also capture 8K timelapses, giving your footage an epic feel. The ability to capture everything around me and then select my frame later is a game-changer. It means I never miss any moment of action and don’t have to worry about composition, framing, etc. This camera captures the whole world!

4K Single-Lens Mode and Sensational Sensor

The X3’s single-lens mode didn’t disappoint either. It shoots first-person views at 4K30fps or 2.7K with ultra-wide MaxView, giving stunning clarity to every shot. Powered by a brand new 1/2″ 48MP image sensor, the details in each frame were sharp, adding a high-definition touch to my surfing escapades.

Stability and Third-Person Views

What really tickled my fancy is the FlowState Stabilization. It provides gimbal-like stabilization and a 360 Horizon Lock, ensuring that even the roughest conditions result in steady, high-quality footage. The X3 also offers a Magic Third-Person View, which creates a drone-like effect that was previously impossible with action cameras.

Design and Durability

The design of the X3 speaks volumes about its user-friendly approach. The 2.29″ tempered glass touchscreen is intuitively easy to use and sturdy. The camera itself is built to endure any adventure, being waterproof up to 33ft. As a surfer, this meant I could take it with me into even the heaviest waves without a worry. We took our X2 out into some pretty challenging conditions, and it never let us down. We’re looking forward to doing the same with the X3!

Insta360 X3 Features:

360 Creative Powerhouse: Shoot first, point later with 5.7K Active HDR video, 72MP photos and 8K timelapses
4K Single-Lens Mode: Shoot epic first-person views at 4K30fps or 2.7K with ultra-wide MaxView
1/2″ 48MP Sensor: Reveal the details with X3’s brand new 1/2″ image sensor
Magic Third-Person Views: Shoot impossible drone-like views with the
FlowState Stabilization: Stabilize the action with gimbal-like stabilization and 360 Horizon Lock
Massive Touchscreen: 2.29″ tempered glass touchscreen for easy operation on the go
Rugged and Waterproof: Robust for any adventure and waterproof to 33ft
Powerful Editing Suite: Let AI edit for you in the Insta360 app. Edit viral edits in a tap

Insta360 X3 Test Footage

Insta360 X3 Invisible Dive Kit

The Dive Case That Vanishes

The Invisible Dive Case is the heart and soul of the X3 Invisible Dive Kit. A product of remarkable innovation, the case becomes completely invisible underwater, offering an unhindered, crystal-clear 360-degree view. With IPX8 waterproofing, it’s good to go up to a staggering depth of 164ft (50m).

This case is truly unique as it makes the selfie stick disappear underwater. Now, I can capture third-person views of myself in some of the most breathtaking aquatic landscapes, a feat practically unheard of before this.

What makes this dive case so unique is that it actually hides the selfie stick underwater, making it completely invisible.

Rachel Moore, Professional underwater photographer

The Complete Package

The Insta360 X3 Invisible Dive Kit doesn’t merely unlock creative possibilities; it also enhances safety and convenience in underwater filming. Its ultra-sealed structure ensures IPX8 waterproofing down to 164ft (50m). The kit also boasts an intuitive 2.29″ ultra-bright touchscreen and a long-life battery that shoots continuously for 80 minutes.

The kit includes essential accessories like the invisible selfie stick and a floating hand grip. The slim and portable design of the case allows for easy mounting and storage. Creators can operate the camera easily while in the case using just two buttons, thanks to a new, dedicated Dive Case mode.

Invisible Dive Kit Features

100% Invisible, No Obstruction in Footage
IPX8 Waterproof to 164ft (50m)
Crystal Clear 5.7K 360 Video
Underwater Third-Person Views
Seamless Underwater Stitching

How to Use Invisible Dive Case

Operation Steps:

Step 1 – Power On: Short press the power button
Step 2 – Enter Dive Case Mode: Long press the Q button on the side of the X3 camera, OR drop down the menu and click the dive case icon to enter Dive Case Mode.
Step 3 – Close and latch the Invisible Dive Case, mount the accessories
Step 4 – Start/Stop Recording: Short press the Q button

Button Operation:

Turn off the camera: Long press the power button
Switch mode: Short press the power button
Start/Stop recording: Short press the Q button
Switch the front single lens/back single lens/360: Double-press the Q button
Exit the Dive Case Mode: Long press the Q button

Intuitive Editing with AI Tools

The free Insta360 app and Studio make transforming X3’s footage into captivating underwater montages a breeze. The app is packed with handy AI-powered features like Deep Track 2.0 for automatic subject tracking and automatic editing to find the best parts of a video and combine them seamlessly.

Editing and Exporting Footage Guide When Using Invisible Dive Case

Here are some general tips for better results when using Insta360 Studio.

Reframe your shots using Insta360 Studio desktop software
Stitching: Select “Stitch for Invisible Dive Case (Underwater).”
Color: Select AquaVision 2.0. Do not use Color PlusUse keyframe transitions.
Fade-In Fade-Out to smooth the transitions and avoid robotic movements
Do not abuse the tiny planet and aggressive FOV; most users prefer a more traditional look.
Export in 4K ProRes and/or high bitrate – will preserve all details and color

Conclusion

Ultimately, the Insta360 X3 and Invisible Dive Kit combo is a game-changer in underwater videography. Available via the Insta360 Official Store worldwide and Amazon U.S., it retails at US$569.99 for the whole package. If you’re already an X3 owner, the Insta360 X3 Invisible Dive Case is available as a separate accessory for US$99.99. This duo promises to take your underwater adventures to a whole new level, capturing every breathtaking moment with unprecedented clarity and convenience. It’s safe to say that my diving experiences will never be the same.