DJI is finally entering the 360 camera arena – and with a tool that, on paper, beats everything. The DJI Osmo 360 combines two 1-inch square sensors, native 8K/50 fps video, and 105GB of internal storage. Is that enough to make Insta360 blush?
For years, 360-video enthusiasts have been praying to the wide-angle gods to grant them more pixels, less noise, and longer battery life. DJI, until now primarily a drone messiah, has answered that prayer – but instead of yet another classic “circular” solution, it has delivered square – DJI Osmo 360. Square sensors, of course. And although the math says that a circle never fills a square, DJI claims the opposite: they turned it on its head and squeezed out an additional 25 % of usable area.
The square is the new circle: sensors without waste dots
Instead of cramming conventional rectangular sensors into a housing and “cropping” them in software, DJI developed a pair of 1-inch square CMOS sensors (4000 × 4000). The larger surface area means 2.4-μm pixels, better dynamic range (13.5 EV), and less night noise. In practice, this results in cleaner footage where the Insta360 X5 already opens up the ISO ventolin.
8K/50fps: When resolution meets slow-mo
Native 8K at 50fps isn’t just “spec sheet flex.” With 360-degree video, we can afford to do aggressive re-framing in post-production without the final 4K file looking pixelated. And when you need cinematic slow-mo, switching to 6K/60fps or even 4K/120fps in single-lens mode works wonders. All of this is captured by the camera in a 10-bit D-Log M profile, which leaves plenty of room for color grading.
A battery that can last a whole bike ride to work and back
The Osmo 360 quietly records for 100 minutes of continuous 8K/30fps footage, which is about twice as long as the most optimistic figures from competing models. A multi-layer cooling system dissipates heat while you film your “silent vlog” in 32°C summer temperatures.
Sound and the magnetic ecosystem
The four built-in microphones are solid, but the real treat is OsmoAudio™The camera pairs with two DJI Mic 2 or Mic Mini transmitters without a receiver and captures 24-bit audio with gain control directly on the screen. When you add a magnetic quick-release that is compatible with existing Osmo Action mounts, you get a modular system that doesn't require additional cages or screws.
Price and (un)availability: Americans, skip the border
In Europe, the Standard Combo costs €479.99 (Adventure €629.99), but in the US, DJI doesn't sell the camera at all - users have to go to B&H or Adorama, where it is advertised for €549.99 $ or €699.99 $, respectively. DJI doesn't explain why, only talking about "several factors."
Insta360 X5 vs. Osmo 360: the numbers that speak for themselves
| DJI Osmo 360 | Insta360 X5 | |
|---|---|---|
| Sensors | 2 × 1″ square | 2 × 1″ rectangular |
| Video | 8K/50fps, 10-bit | 8K/30fps, 8-bit |
| Stills | 120 MP | 72 MP |
| Internal memory | 105GB | – |
| Battery (8K) | 100 minutes | ~55 minutes |
The Osmo 360 therefore leads in resolution, color depth, and autonomy, but the X5 still offers interchangeable lenses and a richer set of AI effects in the app.
What is (still) missing for perfection?
- Non-replaceable lenses. After a strong impact, the entire module will need to be replaced.
- Support for NLE plug-ins. There are no official add-ons for Premiere or Final Cut at this time.
- Underwater (un)confidence. Although it's IP68, DJI advises against serious diving due to possible seam artifacts.
Conclusion: a square that rounds out the story
DJI hit the mark surprisingly close to the center in the first place. The Osmo 360 combines fresh hardware innovation (square sensors), tangible creative bonuses (10-bit 8K/50 fps), and the recognizable DJI ecosystem comfort. It doesn't dethrone the Insta360 yet, but it's shaking it dangerously. For all of you who already live in the DJI house (drones, microphones, mounts), this is the most logical 360 leap of 2025. The rest of you? At least try it out - the square can quickly captivate you.
Below the line: Osmo 360
The Osmo 360 is DJI's first 360 camera, which brings 1-inch square sensors, 8K/50 fps video, 10-bit D-Log M and 105 GB of internal memory. It costs €479.99 in Europe, and in the US it is only available through intermediaries (549.99 $). Compatibility with DJI Mic 2, magnetic mounts and 100 minutes of 8 K autonomy make it one of the most interesting gadgets of summer 2025.
