GoPro HERO 12 vs. Insta360 X3 – The sports cameras of the moment!

When we think of sports cameras, also known as action cameras, it is inevitable to think of brands like GoPro. However, with the passage of time, new brands emerge that, in a short time, achieve a very important positioning in this market thanks to the quality and technology of their devices. In this article, we compare two sports cameras that will surely surprise you. We are talking about the GoPro HERO 12 and the Insta360 X3. 

The first difference is obvious, and it is its design. While the GoPro HERO 12 has a design more similar to what we usually imagine with this type of cameras (it was the pioneer brand for a reason), the Insta360 camera is totally different. Its shape, instead of being rectangular, is vertical, and reminds us almost more of a smartphone than a camera. Therefore, although both cameras have a screen, we get the feeling that the Insta360 X3 screen allows for clearer viewing, even though it is almost the same size as the GoPro screen.

On the other hand, the Insta360 X3, as its name suggests, is a camera that records with panoramic view. On the other hand, the maximum field of view of the GoPro HERO 12 does not reach 180º. The resolution of the photographs and videos is another differentiating aspect between both cameras, as well as the stabilizer. However, not all are differences between them. In some aspects, such as autonomy, compatibility with an app or the possibility of editing photos using artificial intelligence, they are more equal.

To check which of the two sports cameras is most suitable for you, we encourage you to read this review in detail. In it, we tell you all the differences, and we conclude which camera we would choose. Let’s go there!

GoPro HERO 12 vs Insta360 X3 – Comparison Table

If you are looking for a perfect sports camera to immortalize your best experiences, take a look at our comparison table. In it, we show you the main specifications of two very interesting models:

A very recognizable design on each camera

The first thing we notice when we compare these two models is that they are totally different cameras from each other. The GoPro HERO 12 has a rectangular shape, more similar to what we usually think of when these devices come to mind. One of its peculiarities is the design with blue specks that it has and that gives it a more casual appearance, since, as is usual, it is black.

This is one of the few things it has in common with the Insta360 X3, which has an elongated design, which reminds us more of a mobile phone than a camera. In this case, the camera is not operated horizontally, but vertically, which may be more intuitive if you are used to smartphones.

Screen: double or single?

The screen that these action cameras have is very useful to check what each video or photo shot is like, as well as to know what parameters to adjust. And, in this case, it is a difference between the two models. The Insta360 X3 has a 2.29-inch rear touch screen that you can use for both preview and adjustments.

On the other hand, the GoPro HERO 12 has a dual screen. On the one hand, a 1.4-inch color front screen. And, on the other hand, a 2.27-inch rear touch screen. It is curious how, despite the fact that the rear screen of both cameras is practically the same size, it seems much smaller on the GoPro HERO 12 due to the fact that it is horizontal.

Field of vision, another distinctive element

As with the GoPro Max, the Insta360 X3 is a dual-lens camera that allows you to obtain 360º panoramic images. In fact, it can even record 360º HDR videos, although it also allows you to use only one lens if you want to record wide-angle images. For its part, the GoPro HERO 12 only has a single lens, which reduces its field of view to approximately 160º. What both cameras do have in common is horizon blocking.

Within the field of vision section we also want to talk about the stabilizer, because, in a certain way, both concepts are related. Both cameras have a stabilizer that allows the background image to be kept fixed while the subject in the foreground appears to be moving, to prevent the image from constantly moving.

In addition, each one has its own stabilization system. In the case of GoPro, it has the software-based HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilizer, while the Insta360 camera has hardware-based FlowState. In reality, this implies that the GoPro stabilizes by cropping the image, while in the Insta360 it is only necessary to rotate the video, thanks to 360º recording. The result is that the Insta360 X3 videos have better stabilization without needing to distort the image as much.

Photo and video resolution: clear variation

We now look at the maximum resolution at which the two sports cameras that are the subject of this review can record or take photographs. And, in both cases, the advantage goes to the Insta360 X3. Even so, some important details must be clarified. In the case of the maximum resolution of photographs, the Insta360 camera can reach 72 MP, while the GoPro stays at 27 MP (which, mind you, is not bad at all).

The question is at what maximum resolution the videos can be recorded, and this is where the great advantage of the Insta360 X3 comes into play, and that is that it has a double lens. With the dual lens, this camera can record videos at 5.7K, while the GoPro HERO 12 takes them at 5.3K, but with a single lens. However, if we compare both cameras taking into account a single lens (since the GoPro does not have a dual lens), the Insta360 X3 records videos in 4K, a lower resolution than the GoPro.

Battery: practically the same capacity

Another element that you can look at to compare both sports cameras is the battery capacity, which can tell you how much autonomy they have, approximately. In this case, the difference is quite small. The GoPro HERO 12 has a 1720 mAh battery, while the Insta360 X3 goes up to 1800 mAh. In practice, this difference only means a few more minutes of autonomy, so it is not a decisive criterion as relevant as others.

Can they be submerged?

Yes, this is another of the similarities that the two cameras have. In both cases they can be submerged up to 10 meters deep without the casing, which extends up to 50 or 60 meters if you use the protective casing. In fact, if you usually practice sports such as diving, we recommend purchasing the case separately, since it is not included in the standard equipment.

Technology features: voice control and AI editing

Before finishing, we analyze the most technological functionalities that, in this case, both cameras have. On the one hand, in both it is possible to execute actions using your voice to focus the image exactly as you want it. And, what’s more, you can edit photos and videos using artificial intelligence. In this case, it should be mentioned that, on the GoPro, it is possible to do it through the GoPro Quick app. On the other hand, the Insta360 X3 allows this editing directly in the camera, although the possibilities are also greater with its own app.

The invisible “selfie stick”, an Insta advantage

The Insta360 X3 can be equipped with an accessory that we find very interesting and that, since we have seen it here, we cannot understand why other brands do not include it in their cameras. You can purchase a stick to take selfies that disappears when you edit the photo or video. This way, you ensure a good angle or 360º vision without worrying about the stick appearing in the photo.

Which sports camera is more interesting?

Now that you know what the similarities and differences are between the two sports cameras, it’s time to choose which one you would choose. In reality, the choice depends on what type of situations you are going to use the camera the most in. If you want a camera that allows you to record videos with a panoramic view, or while playing sports in which you want to show landscapes in a more complete way, our recommendation would be to opt for the Insta360 X3.

But, if you don’t usually use this function much; That is to say, if the fact that the camera has a double lens does not make a big difference to you, the resolution of the videos recorded by the GoPro HERO 12 is higher all things being equal (with a single lens). In addition, both have the same water resistance, so the main decision criterion will be this.

That said, either of them is a perfect camera for people who like to immortalize moments of action. And, whether it’s GoPro or Insta, the images they record are of very good quality.