10 Best 360 Compact Cameras 2025 in the United States

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 GoPro MAX is a versatile and powerful 360-compact camera that combines traditional Hero-style video and photos with immersive 360 footage capabilities. With a remarkable 5.6K30 HD video resolution and 16.6MP 360 photos, it excels in capturing high-quality content. The Max HyperSmooth stabilization feature ensures incredibly stable footage, making it ideal for action-packed activities. Its ability to live stream in 1080p with stabilization adds to its appeal for vloggers and live broadcasters.

The camera's ease of use is enhanced by the touch screen and the inclusion of horizon leveling, which helps achieve smooth and cinematic shots effortlessly. Additionally, the PowerPano feature allows for capturing impressive 270-degree panoramic photos without distortion. Audio quality is another highlight, with six mics providing immersive 360 audio and premium stereo sound. GoPro MAX offers flexibility with four digital lenses and Max TimeWarp for stabilized time-lapse videos. The camera's durability is ensured by its waterproof design, making it suitable for various environments.

Connectivity options like Bluetooth and Wi-Fi further add to its versatility. However, the battery life may be a concern for extended use, and the reliance on a single lithium-ion battery might require carrying spares. The storage is dependent on SD cards, so investing in high-capacity cards is essential for extensive shooting. Weighing 1.1 pounds, it is fairly portable but might feel slightly bulky for some users. The camera's price point and its rank in the market indicate it is a mid-range product, suitable mostly for enthusiasts and semi-professional users looking for a balance of functionality and creative features in a compact form. Despite a few minor drawbacks, such as potential battery limitations, the GoPro MAX stands out as a robust and versatile option in the 360-compact camera category.

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.