Thinking about making the switch from the insta360 GO 2 to the newly-released insta360 GO 3? Curious to know if it’s an upgrade that’s genuinely worth your time and money? In this article, we’ll delve into the distinguishing features of each model to assist you in making an educated choice.
In essence, the insta360 GO 3 builds upon the strong foundation laid by the GO 2, amplifying its capabilities. Enhanced features like superior resolution, longer battery longevity, and more ensure that the GO 3 offers an optimized recording experience. Despite housing these advancements, the camera maintains a small, lightweight design, making it an ideal option for documenting your on-the-go adventures.
Ready to make a well-informed choice?
Let’s jump into a detailed head-to-head comparison of the insta360 GO 3 and the GO 2, evaluating their pros and cons to determine which camera is your ticket to upping your content game.
insta360 GO 3 vs GO 2: Comparative Reviews
With an understanding of what both cameras bring to the table, let’s move into individual reviews for a deeper look.
insta360 GO 3
Weighing in at a mere 35 grams, the insta360 GO 3 epitomizes lightweight action cameras. Crafted for everyday portability, this pocket-sized marvel is designed to be at your side, ready to record every spontaneous moment. Offering hands-free recording and glorious 2.7K resolution, the GO 3 revolutionizes your point-of-view shooting. Its unique magnetic architecture, complemented by a collection of versatile add-ons like the Magnet Pendant and Easy Clip, offers unparalleled mounting flexibility. This enables you to venture beyond traditional camera angles and capture imagery that defies the norm.
So, take advantage of the GO 3’s blend of convenience and portability to ensure you capture every unforgettable instant, no matter how unplanned or adventurous your exploits.
insta360 GO 2
The Insta360 GO 2 remains an excellent pick, and it’s one we wholeheartedly endorse. Since its debut, we’ve been ardent advocates for this small but resilient action camera. It’s the ideal alternative for instances where a traditional action camera would prove too bulky and inconvenient. There are several compelling reasons to opt for the Insta360 GO 2.
First off, it’s even more compact and lighter than its newer sibling, the GO 3, making it exceedingly portable and easy to transport. Next, it’s available at a noticeably lower cost, offering good value for money without skimping on quality features. Finally, its clamshell case design provides an extra layer of protection, minimizing the risk of accidental damage to the camera.
Given its myriad of attributes and advantages, the Insta360 GO 2 holds a strong position in the competitive landscape of action cameras. Its combination of small footprint, cost-effectiveness, and robust protection makes it an outstanding option for documenting life’s remarkable adventures and moments you’ll want to remember.
insta360 GO 3 vs GO 2: Advantages & Drawbacks
A comparative look at the merits and limitations of both the insta360 GO 3 and GO 2 can provide valuable insights.
insta360 GO 3
Strengths:
- Presence of an LCD Screen: The GO 3 features an LCD screen, enabling easier shot previewing and setting adjustments. It also offers remote monitoring from your smartphone, adding an extra layer of convenience and control.
- Innovative Magnetic Mounting: With its new magnetic mounting system, the GO 3 allows for a variety of creative shooting angles and rapid attachments to different surfaces.
- Enhanced Resolution: The GO 3 enables recording at up to 2.7K, offering a higher level of detail and visual quality.
Weaknesses:
- Higher Cost: Coming in at a higher price point than the GO 2, the GO 3 may not be the best choice for those on a budget.
- Increased Size and Weight: The GO 3 is a bit bulkier and heavier than the GO 2, which may matter to those prioritizing the most compact option.
insta360 GO 2
Strengths:
- Compact and Lightweight: The GO 2 shines when it comes to portability; its reduced size and weight make it easy to use and transport for a variety of activities.
- More Budget-Friendly: The GO 2 is considerably less expensive than the GO 3, appealing to those who are cost-conscious.
- Protective Clamshell Case: With its clamshell case, the GO 2 provides added protection during transport and storage, safeguarding the camera from potential damage.
Weaknesses:
- Lower Image Quality: Despite its many features, the GO 2 doesn’t offer the same image quality as the GO 3, a factor that might be important for those seeking top-notch visual performance.
- Dependence on App for Preview: Unlike the GO 3, the GO 2 requires an app to preview your recordings, which could be seen as a minor inconvenience.
insta360 GO 3 vs GO 2: FULL Comparison
Here’s a detailed, point-by-point comparison between the Insta360 GO 3 and GO 2:
#1. Dimensions and Weight
While the GO 2 is more compact and lighter than its successor, making it especially suited for applications like micro drone filming, the GO 3 is somewhat bulkier in all dimensions and carries an extra 9 grams in weight. Though this difference may not matter much for the average user, it could become apparent in specific applications, such as when mounting it on a micro drone.
#2. Picture Quality
The GO 3 surpasses the GO 2 in terms of video resolution, supporting up to 2.7K while the latter maxes out at 1440p. The GO 3 also benefits from software refinements that mitigate graininess and slightly boost dynamic range in various situations compared to the GO 2.
The GO 3 extends more granular control over the image settings through the Action Pod menu. This is a significant step forward, especially since the default sharpening settings in the GO 2 can be overly aggressive. Additionally, the GO 3 brings a broader array of picture profiles to the table, offering specialized options for scenarios like biking, snow sports, nighttime shooting, and urban landscapes.
#3. Audio Performance
While both models have limited audio functionalities, the GO 3 has the edge with its dual microphone setup, allowing for stereo sound recording. Although the audio enhancement is modest, it is discernible.
#4. Image Stabilization
Both cameras excel in stabilization, featuring 360-degree horizon leveling and Insta360’s robust FlowState stabilization. Our preferred option is the FreeFrame Mode (or Pro Video in the case of the GO 2), which lets you choose the field of view (FOV) and aspect ratio post-recording. This flexibility allows you to produce square, vertical, or horizontal videos from the same footage. Plus, you can modify the stabilization settings during post-production, lending additional versatility to your shots.
It’s worth mentioning, however, that when shooting in FreeFrame Mode, the GO 3’s resolution is restricted to 1440p at 50fps, a limitation that we found somewhat disappointing.
#5. Design Aesthetics
The GO 2 captivates with its innovative charging case, which also doubles as a remote control and miniature tripod. Although the case’s flip-out legs function as a tripod, they might not offer the most robust support. The case is also equipped with a 1/4-20 tripod thread, making it compatible with a variety of camera mounts. Conversely, the GO 3 advances this design language with its unique Action Pod. This case not only charges the camera but turns it into a conventional action camera complete with a touchscreen LCD for composing shots and modifying settings. This wireless viewfinder feature allows for distant adjustments, particularly useful when the camera is mounted. Additionally, the screen can flip vertically, accommodating vlogging and low-angle shots.
#6. Battery Longevity
Equipped with a 210 mAh battery, the GO 2 allows for a relatively short filming duration of around 30 minutes without its pod. On the flip side, the GO 3 comes with a more robust 310 mAh battery, increasing the shooting time by 50%. This enhancement means you can film for up to 45 minutes without requiring the pod, marking a significant improvement in battery life.
#7. Mounting Options
The GO 2 does provide accessory options for mounting without its case, though these could be either less stable or more cumbersome to set up. In contrast, the GO 3 ushers in a magnetic clamp mounting system akin to what’s seen in DJI’s Action 2 and Osmo Action 3 models. This system includes an adapter for connecting the clamp to a tripod thread and a rotating ball head for easier framing. The magnetic clamp is compatible with both the Action Pod and the GO 3 camera, facilitating secure and rapid mounting.
#8. Software and Additional Features
Both the GO 2 and GO 3 are compatible with the same Insta360 app, ensuring a seamless experience if you’ve previously used any Insta360 cameras.
One of the thrilling new features the GO 3 offers is pre-recording, which allows you to capture 10, 15, or 30 seconds of footage before you even hit the record button. It’s worth mentioning that utilizing this function can reduce battery life. Another exciting addition is the ability to schedule recordings, an incredibly useful tool for time-lapse photography. For example, you can pre-set the camera to capture a glorious sunrise without needing to wake up at an ungodly hour to initiate the recording.
insta360 GO 3 vs GO 2: Which One To Choose?
After a comprehensive review of both the insta360 GO 3 and GO 2, it’s clear that each has its own set of pros and cons, making your ultimate choice dependent on your specific requirements and taste.
In terms of design, the GO 3 scores points with its innovative Action Pod that elevates it to a full-featured traditional action camera, complete with touchscreen LCD for shot framing and settings adjustments. The magnetic mounting system enhances its flexibility and convenience. Conversely, the GO 2 shines for its smaller, lighter form factor, and the added protection offered by its clamshell case.
As for image quality, the GO 3 stands out with its superior resolution and more sophisticated image processing. It also offers a wide range of picture profiles and customizable sharpness settings, giving you more control over your footage. The GO 2, although slightly lagging in terms of image quality, offers respectable performance and provides the advantage of FreeFrame Mode, allowing for versatile framing options and aspect ratios.
Regarding software and extra features, both cameras excel through their integration with the user-friendly and versatile Insta360 app. The GO 3 sets itself apart with new modes like pre-recording and scheduled recording, whereas the GO 2 offers features like loop recording.
Taking these aspects into account, the insta360 GO 3 emerges as the go-to option for those who prioritize high-resolution output, nuanced image quality, and a multifaceted shooting experience. If, however, you are looking for a more portable and budget-friendly camera, the GO 2 remains a solid choice.
All said, whether you lean towards the GO 3 or the GO 2, each camera brings its own unique qualities to the table, making them both viable options for documenting your escapades and creative endeavors. The final call is yours to make, and either way, you’ll be well-equipped to capture compelling content that suits your individual needs and stylistic preferences.
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I hope that it was helpful in teaching you everything you need to know about insta360 GO 3 vs GO 2.
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