Actioncam Insta360 Ace Pro in the test: GoPro competition with folding display

Until a few years ago, when it came to high-quality action cameras, there was no way the manufacturer could stand before GoPro. In recent years this has changed and three manufacturers now share the stage for the best action camera: DJI, GoPro and Insta360.

After the modular action cams Insta360 One R (test report) and One RS (test report) as well as the 360-degree camera X3, the manufacturer’s current flagship now comes in a classic form factor with several small improvements. Our test shows whether the Insta360 Ace Pro is also reliable in practice.

For the new Ace Pro, Insta360 has opted for a classic form factor rather than a modular design. Although the lenses and batteries are no longer replaceable, the display can now be tilted and folded and has grown to a useful size of 2.4 inches (6.1 centimeters). Not only is it much easier to use, but when folded it can also be used to check the image for a selfie. Although there is a second display on the front, the black and white display does not show any preview image, only the current status. What is new is the integrated AI assistant, which marks exciting scenes during recording. A magnetic adapter is used for convenient attachment to a helmet, handlebar or tripod.

Image stabilization is pleasantly effective thanks to the 6-axis gyro. Bluetooth 5.2 and WLAN (802.11a/b/g/n/ac) are responsible for communication with a smartphone, tablet or PC. There are also practical functions such as operation by voice command or hand gesture.

The 71.9 x 52.15 x 38.5 mm Ace Pro weighs just under 180 g. The battery with a capacity of 1650 mAh is fully charged in less than three quarters of an hour using a quick-charging power supply (30 W) and, according to the manufacturer, lasts up to 100 minutes (at an ambient temperature of 25 degrees Celsius, with an active AI assistant in HDR video at 4K at 30 fps). The operating temperature is also designed for harsh environments between -20 and 40 degrees Celsius. Without the diving case, the Ace Pro is waterproof to a depth of 10 meters. With the optionally available diving housing it is up to 60 meters.

A 1/1.3 inch CMOS sensor is used. Photos (JPEG and DNG RAW) have a resolution of up to 48 MP (8064 x 6048 pixels). In addition to individual shots, HDR photos, interval shots and photo series are possible. Videos are saved on the memory card at up to 8K. But then only 24fps is possible. 4K and 2.7K recording is possible in 4:3 format at up to 60 fps, in 16:9 format at up to 120 fps. At 1440p it is 60 fps, at 1080p it is even more than 240 fps. There are also HDR videos in up to 4K resolution at up to 30 fps. A special feature are so-called Freeframe videos (4032 x 3024), where the user can later choose in which image format the image content is played back – without any loss of quality. Video modes Pure Video, Starlapse, Time Lapse, Timeshift and Loop Recording are also available. You can also set up pre-recording if you want – then the 15 seconds before pressing the shutter button will also be recorded.

The technical data is impressive:

In testing, various shooting modes, refresh rates and resolutions were used, but mostly automatic settings were used for exposure time and white balance. We tested all possible video modes and formats. We also filmed vertically and took photos, but not all shots were used in our photo series.

Photo and video quality is high and, even in low light, clean and usable shots are produced. Overall, videos score with plenty of detail, a large dynamic range and a sharp white balance. What’s noticeable when looking at test images: In some shots, despite using the standard colour space, colours appear a bit too bright and intense. If in doubt, you can correct this using the software. High-contrast photos and videos are produced, even when there are large differences in brightness and backlighting. Even fast panning and movements can be recorded fast with the appropriate settings and even in slow motion if desired.

The sound quality of the three internal microphones is good and sufficient in most cases. If you expect better sound quality, you will have to use an external microphone as well – but this requires an optionally available microphone adapter.

Image stabilization (FlowState), which can be set in three levels, works very well and compensates even for strong movements and vibrations. The result appears more natural than in other action cams, as movements are at least minimally preserved. If you don’t want this, activate horizon lock. Then the videos appear as if they were recorded by a camera slide. Image sharpness itself is good, but in testing we had problems focusing on small and close objects. The Ace Pro is less suitable for macro and close-up photos.

Huawei Mate XT: The double foldable tested

The Insta360 app was recently completely redesigned. The free software for OS and Android can do much more than just transfer data and operate the camera remotely. Ultimately, it is an extremely comprehensive video editing software with practical AI functions. In addition to the editing function, there is the option to include animated image transitions, color filters, royalty-free music, and titles or text. Automatic video editing is also possible, including filter functions.

Unfortunately, the app requires a lot of storage space and computing power, which is why we recommend editing on a PC or Mac for professionals. Insta360’s free software is also available for this.

There is a whole range of optional accessories for the Insta360 Ace Pro. There is an adapter for attaching the camera horizontally and vertically, the mentioned microphone adapter, an ND filter set, an adapter for fast data transfer, an accessory shoe, a quick charging hub for three batteries, a floating case, diving case and GPS remote control.

The latter not only records location data and speed during recording, but it also serves as a practical remote control with live image function. The remote control attaches either to the handlebar or to the wrist. A holder and a bracelet are included. Anyone who places the camera in places that are difficult to reach when taking photos will find real added value here.

The ND filter set also makes a good impression. The six easy-to-assemble filters are neatly processed and stored in a practical box. If you want to photograph flowing water or want more motion blur for drone videos, the filters are a good choice.

Not from the manufacturer, but still useful, a protective film set for the lens and camera display is useful. There are a few on Amazon Protective films made from real glass From about 6 euros.

At the time of testing, the Insta360 Ace Pro can be priced starting at 349 euros. For comparison, the predecessor One RS (test report) with a 1-inch sensor costs 444 euros, the version with a ½-inch sensor is available from 319 euros.

The new Insta360 Ace Pro is one of the best action cams – maybe even the best, but competitors from DJI and GoPro are also in the starting blocks. The new Ace Pro is definitely ideal for use in harsh environments.

In addition to the excellent image quality and very good image stabilization, we like the convenient operation on the large folding display and the magnetic fastening system. The very comprehensive and yet free app also impressed in testing – market leader GoPro could learn a lesson here. Their app is also good, but the manufacturer also has to pay for it.

The extensive optional accessories also make a good impression – but to save costs, you should think carefully about which of them you really need. In our opinion, the most useful thing is the small GPS remote control with preview image. Depending on the application, it is also advisable to invest in filters and/or diving housings.

If you are looking for a camera that is as light as possible for use on a drone, you should better take a look at the competitors. The smaller and lighter DJI Action 2 is already available 217 Euro (price comparison),