10 Best 360 Cameras 2025 in the United States

The Insta360 X5 is a powerful 360-degree action camera designed for users who want high-quality, immersive video with ease. It shoots impressive 8K video at 30 frames per second using dual large sensors, producing sharp and vibrant footage even in low light thanks to its advanced AI chips. The camera’s stitching quality is solid, delivering smooth panoramic videos without obvious seams. Stabilization is a standout, with FlowState technology and 360° horizon lock ensuring steady, level shots during vigorous activities, eliminating the need for extra gear like gimbals.

Battery life is strong, offering up to about 3 hours of continuous use with fast charging, which is convenient for long outings. Its waterproof design to 49 feet and replaceable, scratch-resistant lenses add to its durability, making it suitable for adventurous users. Storage relies on microSD cards (sold separately), which is standard but requires you to provide your own memory card. The 2.5-inch touchscreen makes it simple to navigate settings and preview footage, contributing to ease of use. Connectivity through the Insta360 app is well-developed, allowing quick sharing, AI-driven editing, and an invisible selfie stick effect (though the stick itself is extra). The camera also features a wind guard with four microphones to improve audio quality.

One downside is the need to buy some useful accessories like the selfie stick and memory card separately, which could add to the overall cost. Additionally, while the camera is rugged, its weight is a bit above average for action cameras, which might be noticeable during extended handheld use. The Insta360 X5 is an excellent choice for enthusiasts who want top-tier 360 video quality combined with smart features and durability, especially for outdoor and action-packed filming.

The AKASO EK7000 is primarily an action camera rather than a true 360 camera, but it offers some solid features that could interest casual users looking for an affordable, rugged camera. It shoots 4K video at 30 frames per second and takes 20MP photos, delivering good image clarity for the price range. Built-in electronic image stabilization helps keep videos smooth, which is useful when filming active scenes. The camera is waterproof up to 131 feet with its protective case, making it suitable for underwater use and extreme outdoor adventures. It also comes with a wireless wrist remote for easier control, although the remote itself isn't waterproof.

Connectivity includes built-in Wi-Fi with a 10-meter range and HDMI output, allowing for quick sharing and editing via the AKASO GO app. However, as a 360 camera, it lacks the stitching capabilities since it records traditional flat video, so you won’t get immersive 360-degree footage. Battery life is decent with two included batteries, and storage depends on a microSD card, which isn’t included, so you’ll need to buy one separately. The 2-inch screen is small but functional for framing shots.

The EK7000 is durable and easy to use for action sports and underwater activities, but it doesn’t meet the core needs of a 360 camera user seeking full spherical video or photo capture. This camera is a strong choice for those wanting a budget-friendly, waterproof action camera with solid video quality and stabilization, but not for those specifically looking for 360-degree content.

The GoPro Hero12 Black E-Commerce Package stands out as a robust action camera with several high-end features suitable for adventurous activities. With its capability to capture 5.3K60 Ultra HD video and 27MP photos, it excels in providing high-resolution content. The inclusion of HDR further enhances the detail in both bright and shadowy scenes, ensuring vibrant and true-to-life colors. The Emmy Award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization is a notable strength, offering smooth footage even in shaky conditions, which is critical for action-packed moments.

Additionally, the 360° Horizon Lock feature keeps your footage level even when the camera rotates, eliminating the need for a gimbal. This makes it particularly advantageous for capturing steady and immersive POV footage during extreme sports or adventures. The rugged and waterproof design up to 33ft (10m) ensures durability and reliability in harsh environments, while the improved Enduro battery provides up to 70 minutes of continuous recording at high resolution, which is a significant improvement in battery life. Bluetooth audio connectivity for external microphones or earbuds enhances audio quality, adding to its versatility.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The storage capacity relies on external SD cards, which means you'll need to manage storage space and possibly purchase additional cards for extended use. The screen size is relatively small at 2.3 inches, which might be a bit limiting for previewing and navigating through settings, especially for those who prefer larger displays. While the Hero12 Black offers advanced features and excellent performance, it may come with a learning curve for users who are not familiar with GoPro's ecosystem and settings. The software and app support, particularly the GoPro Quik app, enhance usability by allowing easy access to editing tools and sharing options.

This product is well-suited for adventure enthusiasts, extreme sports athletes, and anyone looking to capture high-quality, stabilized video and images in dynamic environments.