10 Best 360 Compact Cameras 2025 in the United States

The Insta360 X3-360 Action Camera is a strong contender in the 360-compact-camera market. It boasts a high resolution of 5.7K for 360-degree video capture and 4K for single-lens shots, ensuring sharp and detailed footage. The FlowState Stabilization and Horizon Lock algorithms are standout features, providing incredibly smooth and level videos, even in action-packed scenarios, making it perfect for activities like motorcycle rides, winter sports, and vlogging.

The camera's durability is enhanced by its waterproof design, adding versatility for different environments. Connectivity is supported through Bluetooth, and it uses a Micro SD card for storage, a common and easily accessible option. The 2.29-inch touchscreen is user-friendly, facilitating easy navigation and framing of shots.

However, the battery life could be a limiting factor for prolonged use, as it relies on a single lithium polymer battery. Additionally, while the camera offers AI editing and various shooting modes, the learning curve for new users might be a bit steep, especially for those unfamiliar with advanced camera features. Furthermore, the Insta360 X3's relatively high price point may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers. In conclusion, the Insta360 X3 is ideal for users seeking high-quality, stable video capture with versatile features, though they should be prepared for some initial setup and potential investment in extra batteries for extended sessions.

The RICOH THETA Z1 51GB Black 360° camera is a standout choice for capturing high-quality 360° images and videos. It boasts two 1.0-inch back-illuminated CMOS sensors that deliver stunning 23MP photos and 4K video resolution. This ensures excellent image quality with minimal ghosting, flare, and fringing. The camera's advanced HDR processing allows it to handle varying brightness levels effectively, making it ideal for real estate photography and virtual tours.

Enhanced image stabilization ensures smooth video capture, adding to the quality of the footage. With 51GB of internal memory, the camera can store a significant amount of content, accommodating approximately 6,350 JPEG still images or 110 minutes of 4K video, which is a considerable improvement over previous models. Additionally, the next-generation USB 3.0 (Type-C) connection facilitates faster data transfer, and the high-speed wireless transfer capability is a convenient feature for quick sharing. The camera's durability is enhanced by its magnesium alloy body, providing a premium and robust finish.

However, the RICOH THETA Z1 has a few drawbacks. It lacks water resistance, which limits its use in certain outdoor conditions. The battery life is not extensively detailed, so it's unclear how long it can last during intensive use. Also, the camera's relatively small 1-inch display may not be sufficient for users who prefer a larger screen for previewing content. Despite these minor limitations, the RICOH THETA Z1 remains a powerful tool for anyone looking to explore immersive content creation, offering a blend of high resolution, excellent video quality, and strong connectivity features.

The Insta360 ONE X2 360 Camera is a feature-rich device that excels in capturing high-quality 5.7K 360-degree videos and 18MP photos. The advanced image processing with H.265 encoding ensures superior video quality, while the Steady Cam mode and AI-driven editing tools elevate user creativity. The inclusion of a touchscreen makes navigation and operation straightforward, enhancing ease of use.

Additionally, the camera is waterproof up to 5 meters, making it suitable for various environments, from rainy rides to poolside adventures. The 4-mic stereo audio and wind noise reduction offer enhanced audio quality, and the option to use external mics or Apple AirPods (with a future firmware update) adds versatility.

The package includes a 128GB memory card and an invisible selfie stick, providing ample storage and convenience for capturing immersive footage. The battery life may be a limiting factor, requiring frequent recharges during extended use. The camera's durability seems robust, although extra waterproof cases are needed for deeper dives. Connectivity options primarily include USB, but the lack of integrated wireless transfer may be a downside for some users. This makes the Insta360 ONE X2 ideal for creative enthusiasts and vloggers looking for high-quality 360 content creation with user-friendly features and solid accessory support.