Many have come for GoPro’s spot over the nearly two decades it’s held the action cam throne. None have succeeded thus far. However, competition is definitely heating up like no other time before with both DJI and Insta360 applying the pressure. The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is the latest one to make its case, bringing an interesting mix of features along with it.
What’s the big selling point here? Well, there are a few things, such as 8K video, dual AI chips, and much improved audio recording, along with a whole host of cutting-edge consumer tech everywhere else. It still retains the same form factor that resembles the classic GoPro design, which should make it perfectly familiar to seasoned action cam users.
The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 combines a 1/1.3-inch sensor and a 157-degree Leica Summarit lens, which allows it to capture 8K video at 30 fps, 4K video at 60 fps with Active HDR, and 4K at 120 fps without HDR. You can also shoot 1080p videos at 240 fps, if you want super smooth slow-motion captures. It’s equipped with dual AI chips, one for imaging like we’ve seen in many modern cameras and a 5nm AI chip for additional operations the main imaging chip doesn’t handle, such as improving details in low-light. This combo really shines through in the PureVideo mode, available for resolutions up to 4K 60fps, which enhances brightness and details while reducing image noise for excellent captures even in darker scenes.
The action cam is waterproof up to 39 feet all on its own, so you can shoot underwater without needing to use any extra accessories. When paired with the optional Dive Case accessory, though, depth rating is improved to 197 feet, allowing you to take it when diving into deeper waters. According to the outfit, it uses a precise algorithm that enables it to capture vibrant, true-to-life colors even in the darkest underwater settings.
The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 has an offset lens out front to accommodate a second screen. Unlike other action cams, though, the front screen is strictly for displaying camera information, requiring you to flip up the 2.5-inch rear hinged screen when taking selfies. Audio is highly-improved for this new model, with the camera incorporating a new microphone, a built-in windguard, and refreshed audio algorithms that hep clean up sound before committing it to file. Alternatively, you can purchase an optional mic adapter for connecting an external mic to pick up your audio instead.
The onboard 1800mAh battery is rated at up to 180 minutes between charges, allowing you to capture footage for a good three hours before needing to plug in, although you’re definitely getting a shorter runtime than that if you decide to capture in 8K. It charges fast, too, netting you 80 percent charge in just 18 minutes and fully charging in 47 minutes. Other features include Insta360’s stabilization capabilities (FlowState and Horizon Lock), a magnetic mounting system for quickly switching accessories, a removable lens guard, gesture control, voice control, numerous creative shooting modes, and, of course, access to the outfit’s AI-based editing systems.
The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is available now.
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