The next achievement of technology, 360-degree panoramic shooting, is a new mainstream, but if earlier the creation of such videos was an expensive pleasure and the privilege of professionals, today almost everyone can shoot breathtaking scenes – there are many inexpensive and even budget cameras on the market. You can view the captured video and photos, changing the angle of view, with VR glasses, smartphone or computer – there are already many such videos on the Internet, but everyone can create them on their own, capturing in all the details of a trip or an extreme weekend. We’ve selected the best 360-degree panoramic cameras that are suitable for amateur and professional use.
Let’s start with a quick primer on 360-degree technology and how to choose a camera for it. The very name of the cameras tells us about the angle of view: panoramic cameras cover 360 degrees horizontally and vertically. In order to create such a video, several lenses are needed, each one capturing its part of the video, which are then stitched together. The minimum required number of lenses is two, because today there are such lenses which have a 270 degree angle of view. If you want to create panoramic photos, then one lens is enough, which will rotate around a parallax-free point during shooting.
The parallax effect is the main problem with panoramic cameras. It’s easy to feel it for yourself if you try to close one eye and the other one alternately while looking at the same object on the table: you’ll notice how it will shift slightly. When shooting panoramic video objects in the foreground are especially affected by parallax. It helps that adjacent lenses have an overlap zone. Professionals of circular shooting suggest that the parallax will be less noticeable the closer the non-parallax points of each lens are to each other.
When choosing, pay attention to:
- the angle of view and the number of lenses. The more lenses in the camera and the higher the angle of view, the better the video quality will be;
- video resolution. For quality panoramic photography, the resolution should be at least 4K, especially if you plan to watch the footage in VR goggles. Professional devices allow you to get movies in 8K resolution – a perfect picture with maximum clarity and detail. Amateur inexpensive cameras often shoot in lower resolution (2K and FullHD) – enough for viewing on your smartphone and computer. Base your level, budget, and shooting goals on your level, budget, and objectives;
- shooting speed. To have a smooth video, and for the frames not to jerk, it is better to take a camera with a minimum shooting speed of 25 fps, and even better – 30 fps;
- sound is also important, so all other things being equal, it is better to choose a camera with several microphones directed in different directions (spatial sound technology).
№1. Vuze
- 8 lenses;
- video resolution – 4096*2048 (4K);
- maximum frame rate – 30 fps;
- microSD card slot;
- weight 250 g.
Let’s start with the Israeli HumanEyes model, which comes in four different colors at once. The camera is compact (12*12*3 cm), so you can take it anywhere. Its main advantage is 8 FullHD lenses, which allow you to get high-quality and most detailed video in 4K at up to 30 fps. A pair of lenses on each side of the camera minimizes the problem of parallax, and 4 48 Hz microphones create an immersive viewing effect when watching the footage. The lenses shoot 180 degrees vertically and 120 degrees horizontally.
To stitch a beautiful video, add titles and effects from the material, special software is supplied with the camera. The user also gets a transforming tripod, which will facilitate the process of shooting. The only thing you’ll need to buy is a memory card: 64 GB of memory is enough to shoot an hour of video – just how long the camera can run on battery power. Video is recorded in H.264 format, it is possible to shoot with a 3D effect, there is image stabilization and extensive video settings. The camera can be controlled from a smartphone via a special application.
№2. Xiaomi Mijia 360° Panoramic Camera
- 2 Sony lenses;
- Video resolution – 3456*1728 (3.5 K);
- Maximum frame rate – 60 fps;
- microSD card slot up to 128 GB;
- weight 70 g.
Xiaomi has stuck its nose into almost all areas of production of gadgets and appliances. First the Chinese took up smartphones, then began to produce vacuum cleaners, televisions, light bulbs and gyroscooters. After the triumph of the first action camera the company began to develop seriously in this direction and now presents a 360-degree camera. All in the best traditions of Xiaomi: high quality for the lowest possible price.
The device strikes with its compactness and lightness. Moreover, through a similar design and arrangement of lenses managed to minimize the effect of parallax. Each lens has a viewing angle of 190 degrees. The maximum video resolution at 30 fps is slightly under 4K, but for viewing on a smartphone, tablet or laptop is enough. There is an option to shoot movies at 60 fps, but the resolution will be reduced to 2304*1152. Photos are taken at a resolution of 16 megapixels. Among the advantages of a high-capacity battery of 1600 mAh, which allows you to shoot continuously for 1.5 hours, as well as protection under IP67, so that the gadget will survive water, dust and dirt. The camera can withstand temperatures down to -100C, so you can easily take it with you on active winter holidays. Other advantages include 6-axis electronic stabilization system, excellent build quality, the ability to shoot video in Timelaps mode and, of course, the price. Of the minuses – the decline of video quality in low light, but it’s a misfortune of many cameras. For amateur shooting and getting acquainted with the new technology – it’s the best, and on the price/quality ratio it is one of the best cameras for 360 degrees at the moment.
№3. Magicsee P3
- 2 lenses at 8 megapixels;
- Video resolution – 3040*1520;
- Maximum frame rate – up to 30 frames per second;
- Slot for microSD card up to 64GB;
- weight 126g.
The Magicsee P3 is one of the cheapest panoramic cameras available, and the manufacturer didn’t skimp on a solid package. The device comes with a carrying case, watertight box (the camera can be submerged in it to a depth of 30 meters), a lot of mounts and software for video processing. Two cameras allow you to create video in decent resolution (much higher than FullHD and even 2K), it is possible to shoot video at 60 fps, but then the resolution drops to 1520*760. Photos are created at a maximum resolution of 6080*3040.
A distinctive feature of the model – the presence of a small screen (0.96 inches) on the top end, it can be used to manually control the camera. In addition to the manual, there is also the possibility of remote control using a smartphone. The battery of the camera at 1500 mAh enough for 1 hour of shooting. It is difficult to call the model perfect video quality, but if you consider the price (about $ 200), it is even kind of embarrassing to make a complaint.
№4. Ricoh Theta S
- 2 fisheye lenses;
- Video resolution: 1920*1080 (FullHD);
- Maximum frame rate – up to 30 frames per second;
- no memory card slot;
- weight 125 g.
This is one of the most popular 360-degree cameras currently available. The model takes decent panoramic photos with a resolution of 5376*2688 and the quality of pictures is considered the best in its price category. It can also be used as a video recorder, which is not very good, so this gadget will be great for creating virtual tours. When you connect via USB or micro-HDMI, you can run online broadcasts, and thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi module, all the footage can be viewed on your smartphone and make simple corrections. In addition, thanks to a special case with the gadget you can dive and film the life of the underwater world. The 1350 mAh battery is enough to record an hour of video or create more than two hundred spherical photos.
Among the disadvantages of the camera is the lack of a slot for memory cards, although the built-in 8 GB will be just enough to shoot an hour of video in FullHD – the battery will not allow more. The disadvantages also include image distortion due to fisheye optics and not the highest quality, and the advantages, in addition to streaming, ease of operation, price, stylish design, the ability to quickly view the results of the shooting and share them with friends.
№5. 360Fly 4k
- 1 lens with a 360 degree horizontal view angle and 240 vertical view angle;
- video resolution – 2880*2880;
- maximum frame rate – up to 30 frames per second;
- no memory card slot;
- weight 172 g.
This camera attracts attention just by its appearance – it’s like a gadget from the future. The device is positioned as an action camera with advanced functionality. Built-in 64GB of memory will be enough for a large number of videos and photos, and the battery is enough for 2 hours of continuous operation. From the other models in our review this device distinguishes only one lens, but it has such a wide viewing angle that you can easily shoot panoramic videos and take cool pictures (for photos, the maximum resolution – 3456 * 3456).
With action-camera model unites the ability to attach to a helmet and other surfaces, as well as water resistance to a depth of 40 m (!). In addition, the camera has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules for remote control, as well as GPS-module for geo-tagging. The gadget can be used as a video recorder, and GoPro camera owners can rejoice – with a special adapter, all accessories can be used together with 360Fly 4k. EyeSee360 has released an expanded set of camera mounts, but you’ll have to buy all of these separately.
№6. Kodak SP360 4K Dual Pack
- 2 lenses;
- Video resolution – 3840*1920;
- Maximum frame rate – up to 30 frames per second;
- microSD card slot up to 128 GB;
- weight 102 g.
Kodak is keeping up with the times, so it also has a 360-degree camera in its range. It shoots in perfect 4K resolution with a high frame rate, can make video in low and high temperatures, rain and snow. Externally, the device looks like two separate cameras connected to each other. The angle of view of each lens is 235 degrees, so there are no blind spots to speak of. Each camera is actually a standalone device with its own memory card. It is not difficult to stitch the video footage using proprietary software which is included in the package. All the footage you shoot will evoke a bunch of emotions and a “wow” effect when you view it.
The 1250 mAh camera battery is enough to shoot videos for 50-55 minutes. In addition to gorgeous videos, the gadget allows you to take photos at a resolution of 7680*3840. In terms of video, the gadget is close to professional devices.
№7. Garmin VIRB 360
- 2 lenses;
- Video resolution – 5760*2880;
- Maximum frame rate – up to 60 frames per second;
- microSD card slot up to 128 GB;
- weight 160g.
One of the most functional panoramic cameras currently available. Here is just a short list of its advantages: a 360*360 viewing angle, shooting at a maximum resolution of 5.7K at 30 fps, water protection (possible to dive to a depth of 10 meters without a protective case), an excellent stabilizer, which provides clear and smooth videos in all conditions, as well as a built-in barometer and compass. Data from the compass, barometer and connected sensors are memorized by the device and can be displayed during video playback, setting the atmosphere and adding to the spectacle.
At maximum resolution, video is recorded at 30 fps and is not stitched by the camera, the same happens when recording 3K video at 60 fps – automatic stitching occurs when shooting 4K video at 30 fps. The camera can be used to take great photos, and the shutter speed, white balance and other settings can be adjusted, there’s even an HDR mode.Add to that the ability to control voice and online streaming and you get a nearly perfect camera.
№8. CATEYES CAT360
- 2 lenses;
- Video resolution – 3840*1920;
- maximum frame rate – up to 30 frames per second;
- microSD card slot up to 128 GB;
- weight 160 g.
The camera allows you to create video and take photos in the maximum resolution of 4K. You can control it using your smartphone, where you can view the video. The camera is equipped with one microphone, but you can connect an additional external one if you want, and its weak point is the battery. Capacity of 2000 mAh due to the powerful core (processor from Qualcomm can itself stitch video) enough for only 40 minutes of shooting, but the problem can be solved by connecting an external battery or buy a spare battery.
The device is very easy to handle, and with the start of the stream there should be no difficulties. The trick of the camera is the ability to organize broadcasting via RMTP/RTSP without a computer, wires and other devices. The camera connects directly to the router via Wi-Fi and transmits the signal to the Internet – everything is very simple and convenient.
№9. Insta360 Nano and Insta360 Air
- 2 lenses;
- Video resolution – 3040*1520 in Nano and 2560*1280 in Air;
- Maximum frame rate – up to 30 frames per second;
- microSD card slot for up to 64GB in Nano and none in Air;
- Weight 70g for the Nano and 26.5g for the Air.
Want to try out 360-degree photography, but can’t afford to buy a full-fledged camera? Shenzhen Arashi Vision Co. took care of you and released special modules for smartphones that turn them into a real panoramic camera, and they are much cheaper than even the most inexpensive individual cameras. For smartphones from Apple (iPhone 6 and newer versions), the company released Insta360 Nano, for smartphones on Android – Insta360 Air. The cameras are not very similar to each other, but their adaptation for the smartphone allows you to consider them in the same way.
Want to try out 360-degree photography, but funds don’t allow you to buy a full-fledged camera? Shenzhen Arashi Vision Co. took care of you and released special modules for smartphones that turn them into a real panoramic camera, and at the same time cost much less than even the most budget individual cameras. For smartphones from Apple (iPhone 6 and newer versions), the company released Insta360 Nano, for smartphones on Android – Insta360 Air. The cameras are not very similar to each other, but their adaptation for the smartphone allows you to consider them in the same way.
Insta360 Nano for iPhone conquers with its stylish design, easy connection to the smartphone and decent stuffing. It uses two lenses from Copus with a viewing angle of 210 degrees and a resolution of 8 megapixels. Battery 800 mAh enough for an hour, video is written to its own memory card, and it is convenient to manage all camera settings from your smartphone. It is possible to create live broadcasts on YouTube and Facebook via the Wi-Fi module of the smartphone. It comes with cardboard VR glasses.
Insta360 Air for Android smartphones turned out to be quite compact and record-light, and all because it uses the memory and battery of the phone – a kind of parasite, allowing you to record quite high-quality circular videos. The camera uses two lenses with a viewing angle of 210 degrees, stitching is done automatically, and for some smartphones the maximum resolution is 3K (including the Samsung S7), although the basic resolution – 2K.
№10. Insta360 Pro
- 6 lenses;
- video resolution – 7680*3840 (8K);
- maximum frame rate – up to 100 fps;
- microSD card slot;
- weight 1228 g.
The first position of our rating is occupied by a professional 360-degree camera, which, above all, will be of interest to those who produce video content and keep track of all the innovations in the field. The model was introduced this year and immediately got the title of one of the best panoramic cameras. It is shaped like a basketball, has a decent weight and is equipped with 6 lenses, which provide shooting with an angle of view of 360*360 without blind spots in 8K resolution! In this resolution the stitching is done with computer after the shooting is finished – the camera processor can’t handle it by itself, but in 4K and 100 fps format the video is stitched by the camera itself. It is possible to create video in 3D, but the quality is limited to 6K resolution and up to 30 fps.
Photos are created with a resolution of up to 7680*3840, shooting in RAW format and HDR mode is supported. There is a possibility of online broadcasting, video is transmitted in 4K resolution via Wi-Fi, 4G and Ethernet to services like YouTube, Twitter, Periscope and Facebook. The native 5000 mAh battery is enough to work for 1-1.5 hours, but you can connect the device to an uninterruptible power supply. Sound is recorded by two microphones, but the advantages of the camera are not limited to this – this is a powerful professional tool with a lot of features.
The attentive reader has probably noticed that the description of the cameras lacks one important parameter – price. We deliberately did not specify the price, as it is a very dynamic characteristic.
