Photo: Insta360
Insta360 announced the launch of its new Ace Pro 2 action camera, a GoPro Hero-series competitor. The camera maker introduces a larger display and upgraded 8K video recording capabilities with this action cam. With the monochromatic front display only showing text information, the 180-degree flip-up screen makes it easier to frame shots. It now has a larger 2.5-inch screen over its predecessor's 2.42-inch display and features improved brightness and pixel density. (It also matches the screen size of the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro.) Of course, that hinge can be a durability risk if you use the Ace Pro 2 when you're using it for more extreme activities.
The other noteworthy feature of the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is its new 8K video recording capability. Instead of recording at 8K at 24 frames per second (fps), the Ace Pro 2 records 8K at 30fps. If you record in 4K, you can access frame rates of up to 120fps or 60fps in HDR. Meanwhile, recording in 1080p offers 240fps recording for smooth slow-motion captures. It can continually capture up to 120 seconds before recording to stop the chances of missing pivotal and memorable moments. Photography gets a boost to 50-megapixel.
Photo: Insta360
The Ace Pro 2 has a "next-generation" version of its 1/1.3-inch image sensor from the original Ace Pro paired with a 157-degree wide-angle Leica Summarit lens. It also runs a Pro Imaging Chip that handles processing and noise reduction. An artificial intelligence chip runs a "complex custom-trained AI neural network to help power its PureVideo recording mode. This mode is handy in low-light conditions as it can boost brightness and enhance details instantly. You can also use AI to allow the Ace Pro 2 and Insta360's software to create edited clips of your best moments for you.
The Insta360 Ace Pro 2's waterproofing is now up to 39 feet (six feet deeper than the original). You can extend that to 197 feet with an optional Dive Case accessory. If you want a better audio recording, there's a new "wind guard" on this camera to improve audio quality recording while doing high-speed activities.
Photo: Insta360This action camera also has a larger 1,800mAh battery, which Insta360 rates at 180 minutes on a single charge if you're recording at 1080p at 24fps. Expect to burn through that battery in 4K or 8K modes. It also supports hand gestures and voice commands.
The Insta360 Ace Pro has a starting price of $549.99 for the standard bundle.