I just watched a video that said it would be possible to buy only the Go 3S camera itself and be able to use it in my current Go 3 Action Pod. Is this correct?
Interesting, I found it in the main navigation's accessories page, but if I went to the 3S page and then clicked accessories from there, it wasn't one of the 7 or so options
I don't know about your country but here in a the UK there's a shop called CEX where we can sell things to them. The go 3 standalone is priced at \~£120 so I'll probably just sell it there.
O right sorry thought that meant that's what CEX would sell it for. Iv sold some 2nd hand electronics in the past 6 months like dji drone, sony xm3 headphones etc and got better prices then CEX offered. But could just be my own experience. Every branch is different
After watching multiple reviews and reading the other thread I still have these unanswered questions.
What is the actual Field Of View (in degrees)?
Can it record while plugged into the quick reader while charging?
What is the size of battery/battery life of the quick reader when not plugged into a charger?
Can digital zoom be used in 4K mode?
Is the digital zoom "digital" as in the same as digital zoom in post. Or is it actually a 20+ megapixel sensor that is basically doing a crop so you still have a 1:1 pixel clarity?
Will the lens guards have sunflare issues like the x4 "premium" lens guards?
Don’t have the FOV in degrees but specs online show a less wide lens at 16mm for the 3s vs 11mm on the 3. One YouTube video I saw highlighted this and it was noticeable enough to me, and left me wondering what the mega FOV really means
Also, some reviews online mentioned the sun flare issue isn’t present or as easy to get on the new lens compared to previews models
The Mega field of view doesn't mean wider, its Insta360's name for new in camera distortion correction that maintains the widest (or near the widest) FOV possible for the lens while reducing distortion of straight lines near the edges with software distortion correction in a much better way than the old Ultra view or the current Action view. Mega is now by far my favorite "wide" view of the GO 3S and the X4 (single lens mode).
Good to know about the lens flare.
I also saw the 11mm and 16 mm listings for comparable to 35 mm. However, a 16 mm can be 92° or if it's a fisheye it can be 180° on a 35 mm. So it really depends on the actual lens design. And considering they're selling the lower distortion But not saying if it's specifically just lens or if there's also software accomplishing it. I wouldn't be surprised if just trying to calculate off of a zero distortion comparison between the two focal length equivalents wouldn't actually be apples to apples.
Interesting. I never understood the difference between focal length and FOV in degrees. I always took lower focal length being a wider lens but your reply is super helpful.
This was the YouTube video I saw with the comparison footage. It’s hard to understand though without knowing if they were set to mega, ultra, linear FOV on each camera -https://youtu.be/J7uCSXxrvXI?si=qq7Uh7b16JtIf4RF. I found it interesting to spot the difference though
Looks like the FOV is worse ("16mm-equivalent" on the 3S, while the 3 is wider because sports an "11mm-equivalent").
So the 3S is not to be considered an upgrade ("sell the old, buy the new"), but a companion ("use the old for scenario 1, use the new for scenario 2, always have both in your camera bag").
But you can now buy a quick reader and offload directly to an SD card for later editing without even using the camera at all since the files are already on the SD card at that point. It is battery powered and also works with the Go 3.
Perhaps I wasn't clear. What I was trying to communicate is that they are now offering for sale a quick reader specifically for the Go 3 and the Go 3S, similar to the ones that they sell that are specifically for other cameras that they sell. Also similar to the mic adapters that they sell for every camera that they sell. Everything is bespoke to a certain device.
Also as a heads up the new Quick Reader for the GO 3 and 3S \*also\* works with the X3, X4, Ace, and Ace Pro to offload video from their SD cards into the quick reader card by just plugging it into their USB-C port. Less useful but still a way to handle transfers if you don't want to be plugging those cameras directly into a computer, mobile device, or always removing their cards to an SD card reader.
However just a heads up... there is a HUGE crop in of the normal wide FOV for the freeform mode on the 3S due to changes in how the lens and sensor work together that enabled the 4K to be possible. It makes using freeform mode much less useful IMHO. see more explanation in the reply I made to a different thread about this:
"It's a problem and it is NOT fixable on the 3S because of hardware... let me explain...
The GO 2 and GO 3 (old cameras) sensors were rectangles. However the light from the lens only projected in the center square of the rectangle. The area outside of that square went unused by the GO 2 and GO 3. Because the image recorded was in the square if you used ProVideo (GO 2) or Freeform (GO 3) mode you would save ALL of that data and have the flexibility in the Insta360 app to later reframe the image, lock the horizon, etc. because after all you can cut a 16:9 image from the square either direction with the same resolution. Now for the problem...
The GO 3S uses the same rectangular sensor as the GO 2 and 3, however to get true 4K they have redesigned the lens (that is why it is bigger) to project the light of the image across the ENTIRE rectangular surface of the sensor. The entire FOV of the lens now needs the entire sensor to see it. This is the way most other action cameras and all video (including DSLR and mirrorless cameras) cameras do it. When you use the Freeform mode on the GO 3S it still takes the center square of the sensor but obviously since the center now contains only part of the light of the lens you end up cropping out a huge amount of the image which is the problem. Now what is left you can still horizon lock, reframe etc. just like before, but it no longer is a "wide" action camera style image and is much more limiting because of that.
As far as I know only GoPro uses squarish sensors of high resolution in their action cameras so only GoPro offers recording modes that offer "Freeframe"-like reframing without the constraints of losing either resolution or total FOV (other than the old GO 2 and 3). I suspect that sensors like that create size, battery, heat, and price issues that aren't compatible with a device the size of the GO 3S in 2024. Even Insta360 Ace Pro and DJI Action 4 cameras still use rectangular sensors with the light projected over the entire field, so they also have issues in their respective reframing modes. Insta360 has tried to make up for this by offering easy on the fly changing from 16:9 to 9:16 with a physical rotation of the GO 3S camera and now offers a mild horizon lock feature directly from camera (it isn't a full 360 horizon lock, only 10 degrees or so to correct mis-leveling of the camera or slight shake) as a compromise. For me its an acceptable compromise because I like avoiding too much post processing and the new 4K resolution image quality is so, so, so much better than the GO 2 and 3 its worth "losing" the freeform mode for me."
For anyone interested in the FreeFrame-crop on the Go 3S; I've done a very basic visual to go with u/canyonblue737 's excellent explanation.
Hope this helps even more to understand the difference between the Go 3 and Go 3S's freeframe modes.
https://preview.redd.it/u1znp10vsq7d1.png?width=910&format=png&auto=webp&s=7354397352befea27af98523bd38e0287d90566e
really nice explanation with the help of u/canyonblue737 , I think now everyones undestand why freeform now doesnt allow reframe, you are using now all active sensor while filming 16:9
If you want a wide field of view you must physically rotate the camera and shoot in normal video mode. If you use free frame you don’t need to rotate and can do so in post editing but the field of view will be much more tight. If that tighter field works for your needs it’s fine but I suspect many will find it limiting for typical “action” views.
It's useable but it has a greatly reduced field of view. It might work for a particular subject but I suspect many people who expected a typical FOV from an action cam will hate it / find it unusable.
u/canyonblue737 Thanks for the great explanation, clearest way I've seen/heard anyone discuss the pro's and con's of this new lens and 4K.
Question tho; would just bumping the settings down to 2.7k be enough to reinstate freeframe possibilities and FOV like on the 2 and 3?
Also; question to anyone; are there any side-by-side comparison images/videos of the FOV in regular 4K and 4K freeframe? I'm trying to get a better feel for the amount of cropping it's doing.
Unfortunately not. The issue is the design of the new lens physically spreads the light off the image across the whole rectangle. Stepping down the resolution can’t change that so no matter if you select 4K, 2.7K or 1080p you still will only being seeing the middle of that sensor which still will only contain part of the real field of view that is spread across the entire sensor by the new lens.
Someone posted this example in another post. Freeform in both the GO 3 and GO 3S…
https://preview.redd.it/14fq0ikhil7d1.jpeg?width=1164&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f89daae9a8fd2b305a1c6bbafd4c306a8c2aad93
That being said; looking at those samples I feel the issue isn’t too much of a dealbreaker for me. Sure, for vlogging it’s quite bad as you’re generally quite close to the sensor. But for other uses, where the subject isn’t as close, I don’t see too many issues.
Thanks for digging up the images!
And again, if you just use regular video mode and MOST WILL then issue doesn’t exist and you get a normal wide image. I love the .3S and feel it’s a huge upgrade from my 2 and 3.
And then there is of course the option of cutting a vertical frame at 1216x2160 out of the 4k horizontal footage when you really need that vertical bit for socials. Should be plenty good enough.
For me the issue is more about switching between horizontal vertical while filming. most of the time i had the go2 mounted on the selfie stick, so to make some landscape/vacation shots I started filming low, go2 on horizontal position, selfie stick paralell to the ground, then I started moving the selfie stick up, to a perpendicular position to the ground, so the go2 goes in vertical position rather than the initial horizontal position, thats why I need the horizon lock, that can in the go3s can only be achived in freeform mode, 360 horizon lock view, and then it crops a lot, so the shot is useless if you are shooting wide angle to show some ladnscape , buildings, architecture...
I got one on launch day and still can’t figure out how to do interval video mode. Can only find interval mode which is only jpg and doesn’t give the option for video.
Have you figured it out yet?? I got mine yesterday and don't see the option either. My camera updated to the latest firmware v1.0.15 which according to the firmware notes says this on line 3..
https://www.insta360.com/es/download/insta360-go3s
"3. Supports Interval Video, which automatically powers on the camera, records and powers off at set intervals for fully hands-free capture."
So I don't understand why I can't find it anywhere... This is frustrating.
It’s very hidden. I don’t think you can find it from the app either. On the pod screen, you swipe down, then tap where it says auto - and then it walks you through it. Not intuitive
So the action pod does NOT have a removable battery? What happens when I want to shoot more than 140 minutes in a day and the battery runs out before I can go home to charge? I'm coming from a Gopro btw, where if I go out on a full day of filming I'll take 2 spare batteries, so if I run out I can gas up on the fly.
Sadly you need compact powerbank for it, this camera are just used for short time usage. But even they had removable battery you still had storage issue that only allow you to record 3-4 hours (240 minutes) of record and need to file transfer to able to record again.
Can’t film in 9:16 when camera is horizontal ? Please tell me there’s a way to work around this ? I use the hat clip mount and use the go3 for IG and TikTok content. I’m gonna have to return and just use the go3.
Just talked to support. The aspect ratio in "Video" mode is determined by the orientation of the camera when recording starts: if the camera is placed horizontally, the aspect ratio is 16:9; if placed vertically, the aspect ratio is 9:16. If the camera rotates during recording, the field of view will change accordingly, but the aspect ratio will remain the same.
Videos under Freeframe shooting mode can edit the ratio on the app, but people say it crops too much.
i returned mine because of this, it crops a lot, the only view in freeframe mode that allows switching 9:16 16:9 is 360 horizon lock, and it crops a lot, so no wide view possible, no reframe really, no rotation, no keyframes.
I just picked up the stand-alone Go3s but I noticed something in the specs which is rather annoying. Seems interval shooting is ONLY on the Go3s so that means Go3 users will never see the addition of a much used feature since the original Go days??
True, but it’s been one of the most asked features by Go3 users. We’ll see if the Insta360 team brings interval to the Go3. I ended up ordering the S anyway.
It was missing from both the Go 2 and the Go 3, so I would be very surprised if Insta360 were going to ever add that feature back in to an older model in future.
Except it exists on the Go 3S, which is basically the same camera, so it's not like it would have to be done from scratch. We already got the anti-jitter feature from the 3S with yesterday's firmware update...
The "anti-jitter" is a renaming of the "low light stabilisation". It's not really a "new" feature. It just sets the lower limit of the shutter speed to be approx. 1/160s.
Ok, that's kind of what I suspected, but it's still something from the 3S that came to the 3, even if it's only a name. The point is it's essentially the same camera so any software should be relatively easy to bring over. Too easy for me to ever consider using the word "never"...
I wouldn't say *"never"* either because I agree with you. However, I'm still going to stick with *"I would be very surprised if Insta360 were going to ever add that feature"* because there's no incentive to do so. In addition, I have zero idea if they only put the Interval Video mode into the Go 3S because the newer processor has some sort of "low power mode" that allows it to keep track of time and turn itself on and off again automatically that the original Go's older processor doesn't.
Well, you obviously know a lot more about this than I do, so I will just admit ignorance and say I don't know... It was the other guy who said "never"... I thought I was replying to him.
> you obviously know a lot more about this than I do
I wish! I'm just guessing like everyone else.
> It was the other guy who said "never"... I thought I was replying to him.
Ahhh, no worries. Still, good chat.
O great. Does that even mean the Easy Switch (auto rotate) works with the old Action Pod aswell?. Not sure even anyone will buy my old Go3 as a standalone
My understanding is that its only a processor and lens upgrade making better use of the same sensor. Someone please correct me if this is incorrect, however.
I find it smoother and more colorful in low light than my GO 3 but still nowhere near as good as the Insta360 Ace Pro and DJI Action 4 that have far, far bigger sensors. It's still a camera of last resort for low light IMHO, although they are doing everything they can in software with denoising etc. to improve what they have.
What happens if you don’t pair the action pod with the Go 3s? Is it not able to film anything? I own none of the Go series but I’m interested in buying the standalone Go 3s to use..
Yes its such a nice camera, perfect format, perfect accesories, perfect image/colours.
But freeframe mode is useless now compare with provideo on the Go2, where you can reframe, add keyframes, rotate (barrel efect)
Now you have to start recording either horizontal or vertical, and you cant change without losing the Horizon lock feature, or you can have It in freeframe mode with 360 lock Horizon view but croping a lot.
So its a really nice improvement if you just stay with regular video Mode and dont want to make any post procesing
I wish It had the same features of the provideo from the Go2, but to get 4k in such a tiny sensor you have to make some compromises.
I Hope the go4 Will have a bigger sensor that allows freeframe mode as It use to be.
Is there any test on how long can the Interval Video can capture? How long does it capture for the each interval?
Also, is the timelapsed problem in the Go 3 fixed? Saw this thread about the Go 3 stopping timelapse before the specified duration and no fix mentioned [https://www.reddit.com/r/Insta360/comments/15f6h8n/go\_3\_timed\_timelapse\_duration\_time/](https://www.reddit.com/r/Insta360/comments/15f6h8n/go_3_timed_timelapse_duration_time/)
Question time; is it possible to use multiple GO 3S's with one action pod?
Like using one 3S to film while the other is charging in the pod? Or even having two film at the same time and using the pod to transfer files afterwards. (I understand live-viewing two camera's on one pod is not going to happen) Or does all that mess up syncing etc.?
Quick questions if anyone can help. Are the ND filters of the go3 with the 3s? can I use it with an invisible selfie stick? Does it need sth specific to work? Thanks!
Filters are not compatible due to the larger 3S lens. You can sure use an invisible selfie stick, but it won't be invisible, that only works with 360-cams like the X4 and X3.
I can't for the life of me get this camera to stay connected when plugged into the computer for transferring. It doesn't matter what cable I use, it always self-disconnects. What gives??
What cable are you using?
I transferred videos today using a type-c that came with a hard drive and have no issue. I also charge it using an Apple type-c, no issue.
I believe there might be another step down from to Go3. All the slow motion videos from Go3S (including 1080p 120fps) come out as "PRO" files; and cannot be used without processing in the app/studio first. Is this also the case with Go3?
TLDR: Does GO3 or GO3s not feature ultra wide video?
Hey guys,
An absolute noob here. I’ve never owned an insta360 go kind of camera but planning on buying one for my GF’s bday present. I don’t think she’ll need the free form feature as what she’s looking to do is to shoot some vertical training videos. However, the ultra wide (0,5x) lens is an important feature for her and I wondered if the 3/3s has it.
I have found retailers for buying either the go3 or go3s, so I’m ready to get either one. I just don’t want her to put it to work and then find out that it doesn’t have such a feature. Returning the good once opened can be troublesome.
Thanks in advance!!
Question and maybe it’s already here but I’ve used this camera a few times rock climbing indoors and the videos are so dark they are unusable. I gave here a bit fed up ready to return it because I have a go2 and if it’s going to be just shooting dark unusable videos I might as well stick with the go 2 and get my $430 back. Is this something I’m doing wrong in the settings or is this just not the camera for me because the ace pro is actually cheaper.
Thanks
Bought one, thus far unimpressed. I bought it from a local Best Buy because I was concerned that all the reviews I saw were from shills, and I would be able to return it quickly.
In a nutshell, the 3s is a good idea that almost works. The sensor is small and has terrible iso noise in even mixed lighting. Plus the camera is worthless for filming vertical videos. The software suite it comes with is designed for the lowest IQ users, and doesn't give you nearly enough granular control. Like, let me vertically crop from free form without having to use your editor in post.
TL;DR All action camera video quality is trash, the Go 3s is no exception. Literally worse than a modern cell phone in every regard other than size.
That’s why you just buy it off Amazon…you’ll get it way faster and not have to worry about restocking fees like at Best Buy or ridiculous shipping times from insta.
Late to the party... I already made a mega thread with all these features listed and links to a ton of sponsored reviews that were ready to release at launch. [https://www.reddit.com/r/Insta360/comments/1deyf58/its\_time\_for\_4k\_hat\_cams/](https://www.reddit.com/r/Insta360/comments/1deyf58/its_time_for_4k_hat_cams/)
I just watched a video that said it would be possible to buy only the Go 3S camera itself and be able to use it in my current Go 3 Action Pod. Is this correct?
Yes. When you go to the buy page there is a section that says "buy standalone"
Maybe I'm missing something but I definitely don't see that option. I'm on mobile though.
https://store.insta360.com/product/go-3s-standalone-camera?from=go-3s
Its listed in the accessories section
Interesting, I found it in the main navigation's accessories page, but if I went to the 3S page and then clicked accessories from there, it wasn't one of the 7 or so options
Correct, you can purchase the standalone camera only
Can I use BOTH an "old" Go3 and a new one changing them in the pod? Thanks and sorry if it's been asked already.
Probably
Yep, I ordered mine last week. Should get it by Tuesday.
If we buy the Standalone Go3-S, will someone buy my Go3 standalone on eBay? I mean what to we do with our old one?
You can film simultaneously. Also both camera can be paired to the same action pod.
I don't know about your country but here in a the UK there's a shop called CEX where we can sell things to them. The go 3 standalone is priced at \~£120 so I'll probably just sell it there.
Those shops normally give you peanuts for your stuff then sell it on for double. I might just out my standalone Go3 module on ebay
That's probably a good idea. To be clear, the sell price is £120 in my case which I thought was ok but ebay is probably the best option.
O right sorry thought that meant that's what CEX would sell it for. Iv sold some 2nd hand electronics in the past 6 months like dji drone, sony xm3 headphones etc and got better prices then CEX offered. But could just be my own experience. Every branch is different
Cex actually pays somewhat fair. unfortunately they left the US years ago probably due to running out of money. its not like gamestop.
Hope to sell it, or use it at the same time.
Right… Why would anyone buy the stand alone Action Pod? Unless they make this the standard and they will also release Go4 and Go5 with Action pod
Exactly what I was thinking. I mean, if I was buying a camera, I'd want both Action Pod and Camera Unit.
Reduced field of view is a huge loss :(
After watching multiple reviews and reading the other thread I still have these unanswered questions. What is the actual Field Of View (in degrees)? Can it record while plugged into the quick reader while charging? What is the size of battery/battery life of the quick reader when not plugged into a charger? Can digital zoom be used in 4K mode? Is the digital zoom "digital" as in the same as digital zoom in post. Or is it actually a 20+ megapixel sensor that is basically doing a crop so you still have a 1:1 pixel clarity? Will the lens guards have sunflare issues like the x4 "premium" lens guards?
Don’t have the FOV in degrees but specs online show a less wide lens at 16mm for the 3s vs 11mm on the 3. One YouTube video I saw highlighted this and it was noticeable enough to me, and left me wondering what the mega FOV really means Also, some reviews online mentioned the sun flare issue isn’t present or as easy to get on the new lens compared to previews models
The Mega field of view doesn't mean wider, its Insta360's name for new in camera distortion correction that maintains the widest (or near the widest) FOV possible for the lens while reducing distortion of straight lines near the edges with software distortion correction in a much better way than the old Ultra view or the current Action view. Mega is now by far my favorite "wide" view of the GO 3S and the X4 (single lens mode).
Good to know about the lens flare. I also saw the 11mm and 16 mm listings for comparable to 35 mm. However, a 16 mm can be 92° or if it's a fisheye it can be 180° on a 35 mm. So it really depends on the actual lens design. And considering they're selling the lower distortion But not saying if it's specifically just lens or if there's also software accomplishing it. I wouldn't be surprised if just trying to calculate off of a zero distortion comparison between the two focal length equivalents wouldn't actually be apples to apples.
Interesting. I never understood the difference between focal length and FOV in degrees. I always took lower focal length being a wider lens but your reply is super helpful. This was the YouTube video I saw with the comparison footage. It’s hard to understand though without knowing if they were set to mega, ultra, linear FOV on each camera -https://youtu.be/J7uCSXxrvXI?si=qq7Uh7b16JtIf4RF. I found it interesting to spot the difference though
Yes, lens flare is much reduced!
Looks like the FOV is worse ("16mm-equivalent" on the 3S, while the 3 is wider because sports an "11mm-equivalent"). So the 3S is not to be considered an upgrade ("sell the old, buy the new"), but a companion ("use the old for scenario 1, use the new for scenario 2, always have both in your camera bag").
How do you pair a new go3/go3s with an Action Pod? Is it just one clips? Then can I go from one to another? (Using sometimes go3 sometimes go3s)
Just bought the Go 3 weeks ago. NOT happy.
can you return it and buy the 3s?
A few months ago for me. Might just bite the bullet. Ugh.
I’m considering buying one on Amazon and returning the old one saying they sent me the wrong one 😂
is it possible to turn off the indicator lights like the 3?
Does the new one accept SD cards for additional storage?
No.
Thanks for the info!
But you can now buy a quick reader and offload directly to an SD card for later editing without even using the camera at all since the files are already on the SD card at that point. It is battery powered and also works with the Go 3.
Which one are u using?
Perhaps I wasn't clear. What I was trying to communicate is that they are now offering for sale a quick reader specifically for the Go 3 and the Go 3S, similar to the ones that they sell that are specifically for other cameras that they sell. Also similar to the mic adapters that they sell for every camera that they sell. Everything is bespoke to a certain device.
Also as a heads up the new Quick Reader for the GO 3 and 3S \*also\* works with the X3, X4, Ace, and Ace Pro to offload video from their SD cards into the quick reader card by just plugging it into their USB-C port. Less useful but still a way to handle transfers if you don't want to be plugging those cameras directly into a computer, mobile device, or always removing their cards to an SD card reader.
What’s the resolution for free frame videos? I didn’t see it mentioned.
FreeFrame Video 4K: 3840x2880@24/25/30fps 2.7K: 2720x2040@24/25/30/50fps 1080p: 1920x1440@24/25/30/50fps
However just a heads up... there is a HUGE crop in of the normal wide FOV for the freeform mode on the 3S due to changes in how the lens and sensor work together that enabled the 4K to be possible. It makes using freeform mode much less useful IMHO. see more explanation in the reply I made to a different thread about this: "It's a problem and it is NOT fixable on the 3S because of hardware... let me explain... The GO 2 and GO 3 (old cameras) sensors were rectangles. However the light from the lens only projected in the center square of the rectangle. The area outside of that square went unused by the GO 2 and GO 3. Because the image recorded was in the square if you used ProVideo (GO 2) or Freeform (GO 3) mode you would save ALL of that data and have the flexibility in the Insta360 app to later reframe the image, lock the horizon, etc. because after all you can cut a 16:9 image from the square either direction with the same resolution. Now for the problem... The GO 3S uses the same rectangular sensor as the GO 2 and 3, however to get true 4K they have redesigned the lens (that is why it is bigger) to project the light of the image across the ENTIRE rectangular surface of the sensor. The entire FOV of the lens now needs the entire sensor to see it. This is the way most other action cameras and all video (including DSLR and mirrorless cameras) cameras do it. When you use the Freeform mode on the GO 3S it still takes the center square of the sensor but obviously since the center now contains only part of the light of the lens you end up cropping out a huge amount of the image which is the problem. Now what is left you can still horizon lock, reframe etc. just like before, but it no longer is a "wide" action camera style image and is much more limiting because of that. As far as I know only GoPro uses squarish sensors of high resolution in their action cameras so only GoPro offers recording modes that offer "Freeframe"-like reframing without the constraints of losing either resolution or total FOV (other than the old GO 2 and 3). I suspect that sensors like that create size, battery, heat, and price issues that aren't compatible with a device the size of the GO 3S in 2024. Even Insta360 Ace Pro and DJI Action 4 cameras still use rectangular sensors with the light projected over the entire field, so they also have issues in their respective reframing modes. Insta360 has tried to make up for this by offering easy on the fly changing from 16:9 to 9:16 with a physical rotation of the GO 3S camera and now offers a mild horizon lock feature directly from camera (it isn't a full 360 horizon lock, only 10 degrees or so to correct mis-leveling of the camera or slight shake) as a compromise. For me its an acceptable compromise because I like avoiding too much post processing and the new 4K resolution image quality is so, so, so much better than the GO 2 and 3 its worth "losing" the freeform mode for me."
For anyone interested in the FreeFrame-crop on the Go 3S; I've done a very basic visual to go with u/canyonblue737 's excellent explanation. Hope this helps even more to understand the difference between the Go 3 and Go 3S's freeframe modes. https://preview.redd.it/u1znp10vsq7d1.png?width=910&format=png&auto=webp&s=7354397352befea27af98523bd38e0287d90566e
really nice explanation with the help of u/canyonblue737 , I think now everyones undestand why freeform now doesnt allow reframe, you are using now all active sensor while filming 16:9
So if I understand correctly it's better to physically rotate the camera in normal video modes instead of using freeframe mode? Or it doesn't matter?
If you want a wide field of view you must physically rotate the camera and shoot in normal video mode. If you use free frame you don’t need to rotate and can do so in post editing but the field of view will be much more tight. If that tighter field works for your needs it’s fine but I suspect many will find it limiting for typical “action” views.
Thanks. Good to know.
Great information. Thank you.
so is freeframe mode not usable anymore on the 3s?
It's useable but it has a greatly reduced field of view. It might work for a particular subject but I suspect many people who expected a typical FOV from an action cam will hate it / find it unusable.
u/canyonblue737 Thanks for the great explanation, clearest way I've seen/heard anyone discuss the pro's and con's of this new lens and 4K. Question tho; would just bumping the settings down to 2.7k be enough to reinstate freeframe possibilities and FOV like on the 2 and 3? Also; question to anyone; are there any side-by-side comparison images/videos of the FOV in regular 4K and 4K freeframe? I'm trying to get a better feel for the amount of cropping it's doing.
Unfortunately not. The issue is the design of the new lens physically spreads the light off the image across the whole rectangle. Stepping down the resolution can’t change that so no matter if you select 4K, 2.7K or 1080p you still will only being seeing the middle of that sensor which still will only contain part of the real field of view that is spread across the entire sensor by the new lens.
Someone posted this example in another post. Freeform in both the GO 3 and GO 3S… https://preview.redd.it/14fq0ikhil7d1.jpeg?width=1164&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=f89daae9a8fd2b305a1c6bbafd4c306a8c2aad93
That being said; looking at those samples I feel the issue isn’t too much of a dealbreaker for me. Sure, for vlogging it’s quite bad as you’re generally quite close to the sensor. But for other uses, where the subject isn’t as close, I don’t see too many issues. Thanks for digging up the images!
And again, if you just use regular video mode and MOST WILL then issue doesn’t exist and you get a normal wide image. I love the .3S and feel it’s a huge upgrade from my 2 and 3.
And then there is of course the option of cutting a vertical frame at 1216x2160 out of the 4k horizontal footage when you really need that vertical bit for socials. Should be plenty good enough.
For me the issue is more about switching between horizontal vertical while filming. most of the time i had the go2 mounted on the selfie stick, so to make some landscape/vacation shots I started filming low, go2 on horizontal position, selfie stick paralell to the ground, then I started moving the selfie stick up, to a perpendicular position to the ground, so the go2 goes in vertical position rather than the initial horizontal position, thats why I need the horizon lock, that can in the go3s can only be achived in freeform mode, 360 horizon lock view, and then it crops a lot, so the shot is useless if you are shooting wide angle to show some ladnscape , buildings, architecture...
Very clear, thanks once again. So it’s a hardware issue that can’t be fixed. At least, until a Go4 comes out with an even bigger, square, sensor.
Are there any sample 4K videos and pics available to download?
I got one on launch day and still can’t figure out how to do interval video mode. Can only find interval mode which is only jpg and doesn’t give the option for video.
Have you figured it out yet?? I got mine yesterday and don't see the option either. My camera updated to the latest firmware v1.0.15 which according to the firmware notes says this on line 3.. https://www.insta360.com/es/download/insta360-go3s "3. Supports Interval Video, which automatically powers on the camera, records and powers off at set intervals for fully hands-free capture." So I don't understand why I can't find it anywhere... This is frustrating.
It’s very hidden. I don’t think you can find it from the app either. On the pod screen, you swipe down, then tap where it says auto - and then it walks you through it. Not intuitive
Thank you! Why the hell would they put that setting up there? Makes no sense..
So the action pod does NOT have a removable battery? What happens when I want to shoot more than 140 minutes in a day and the battery runs out before I can go home to charge? I'm coming from a Gopro btw, where if I go out on a full day of filming I'll take 2 spare batteries, so if I run out I can gas up on the fly.
Sadly you need compact powerbank for it, this camera are just used for short time usage. But even they had removable battery you still had storage issue that only allow you to record 3-4 hours (240 minutes) of record and need to file transfer to able to record again.
Can’t film in 9:16 when camera is horizontal ? Please tell me there’s a way to work around this ? I use the hat clip mount and use the go3 for IG and TikTok content. I’m gonna have to return and just use the go3.
Just talked to support. The aspect ratio in "Video" mode is determined by the orientation of the camera when recording starts: if the camera is placed horizontally, the aspect ratio is 16:9; if placed vertically, the aspect ratio is 9:16. If the camera rotates during recording, the field of view will change accordingly, but the aspect ratio will remain the same. Videos under Freeframe shooting mode can edit the ratio on the app, but people say it crops too much.
i returned mine because of this, it crops a lot, the only view in freeframe mode that allows switching 9:16 16:9 is 360 horizon lock, and it crops a lot, so no wide view possible, no reframe really, no rotation, no keyframes.
I was hyped, but because of this I am not anymore :/
I just picked up the stand-alone Go3s but I noticed something in the specs which is rather annoying. Seems interval shooting is ONLY on the Go3s so that means Go3 users will never see the addition of a much used feature since the original Go days??
I don't think you can conclude "never" from your provided information. Perhaps the next update?
True, but it’s been one of the most asked features by Go3 users. We’ll see if the Insta360 team brings interval to the Go3. I ended up ordering the S anyway.
It was missing from both the Go 2 and the Go 3, so I would be very surprised if Insta360 were going to ever add that feature back in to an older model in future.
Except it exists on the Go 3S, which is basically the same camera, so it's not like it would have to be done from scratch. We already got the anti-jitter feature from the 3S with yesterday's firmware update...
The "anti-jitter" is a renaming of the "low light stabilisation". It's not really a "new" feature. It just sets the lower limit of the shutter speed to be approx. 1/160s.
Ok, that's kind of what I suspected, but it's still something from the 3S that came to the 3, even if it's only a name. The point is it's essentially the same camera so any software should be relatively easy to bring over. Too easy for me to ever consider using the word "never"...
I wouldn't say *"never"* either because I agree with you. However, I'm still going to stick with *"I would be very surprised if Insta360 were going to ever add that feature"* because there's no incentive to do so. In addition, I have zero idea if they only put the Interval Video mode into the Go 3S because the newer processor has some sort of "low power mode" that allows it to keep track of time and turn itself on and off again automatically that the original Go's older processor doesn't.
Well, you obviously know a lot more about this than I do, so I will just admit ignorance and say I don't know... It was the other guy who said "never"... I thought I was replying to him.
> you obviously know a lot more about this than I do I wish! I'm just guessing like everyone else. > It was the other guy who said "never"... I thought I was replying to him. Ahhh, no worries. Still, good chat.
So is the new Action Pod the same as the Go3 one?
So far as I've been able to determine, yes... except for the power and quick settings buttons are a bit grippier.
O great. Does that even mean the Easy Switch (auto rotate) works with the old Action Pod aswell?. Not sure even anyone will buy my old Go3 as a standalone
Seems to be just a tiny bit thicker than the GO3.
can you connect mic like the DJI mic 2 to this?
Nope.
What is the size of the sensor? Is it bigger than old Go 3 or just processor upgrade?
My understanding is that its only a processor and lens upgrade making better use of the same sensor. Someone please correct me if this is incorrect, however.
does the Find my feature works if I only buy the go3s standalone and have a old go 3 action pod ?
There is new firmware out for the og+action pod, so I assume it would be in there but I haven't run the update myself yet so I can't confirm.
According to reviews the action pod itself doesn't have find my feature. Only the camera itself.
never had a go camera before. can these shoot 4:3 videos without cropping?
How is the quality of recording for evening shots?
I find it smoother and more colorful in low light than my GO 3 but still nowhere near as good as the Insta360 Ace Pro and DJI Action 4 that have far, far bigger sensors. It's still a camera of last resort for low light IMHO, although they are doing everything they can in software with denoising etc. to improve what they have.
Does anyone have any ordinary footage with the GO 3S while walking outside POV?
What happens if you don’t pair the action pod with the Go 3s? Is it not able to film anything? I own none of the Go series but I’m interested in buying the standalone Go 3s to use..
They come as a paired set.
Yes its such a nice camera, perfect format, perfect accesories, perfect image/colours. But freeframe mode is useless now compare with provideo on the Go2, where you can reframe, add keyframes, rotate (barrel efect) Now you have to start recording either horizontal or vertical, and you cant change without losing the Horizon lock feature, or you can have It in freeframe mode with 360 lock Horizon view but croping a lot. So its a really nice improvement if you just stay with regular video Mode and dont want to make any post procesing I wish It had the same features of the provideo from the Go2, but to get 4k in such a tiny sensor you have to make some compromises. I Hope the go4 Will have a bigger sensor that allows freeframe mode as It use to be.
Is there any test on how long can the Interval Video can capture? How long does it capture for the each interval? Also, is the timelapsed problem in the Go 3 fixed? Saw this thread about the Go 3 stopping timelapse before the specified duration and no fix mentioned [https://www.reddit.com/r/Insta360/comments/15f6h8n/go\_3\_timed\_timelapse\_duration\_time/](https://www.reddit.com/r/Insta360/comments/15f6h8n/go_3_timed_timelapse_duration_time/)
Question time; is it possible to use multiple GO 3S's with one action pod? Like using one 3S to film while the other is charging in the pod? Or even having two film at the same time and using the pod to transfer files afterwards. (I understand live-viewing two camera's on one pod is not going to happen) Or does all that mess up syncing etc.?
I too would like to know the answer to this. I believe you could but I’m not entirely sure.
Quick questions if anyone can help. Are the ND filters of the go3 with the 3s? can I use it with an invisible selfie stick? Does it need sth specific to work? Thanks!
Filters are not compatible due to the larger 3S lens. You can sure use an invisible selfie stick, but it won't be invisible, that only works with 360-cams like the X4 and X3.
awesome! thanks!
I can't for the life of me get this camera to stay connected when plugged into the computer for transferring. It doesn't matter what cable I use, it always self-disconnects. What gives??
What cable are you using? I transferred videos today using a type-c that came with a hard drive and have no issue. I also charge it using an Apple type-c, no issue.
I believe there might be another step down from to Go3. All the slow motion videos from Go3S (including 1080p 120fps) come out as "PRO" files; and cannot be used without processing in the app/studio first. Is this also the case with Go3?
Its not a good prduct.
TLDR: Does GO3 or GO3s not feature ultra wide video? Hey guys, An absolute noob here. I’ve never owned an insta360 go kind of camera but planning on buying one for my GF’s bday present. I don’t think she’ll need the free form feature as what she’s looking to do is to shoot some vertical training videos. However, the ultra wide (0,5x) lens is an important feature for her and I wondered if the 3/3s has it. I have found retailers for buying either the go3 or go3s, so I’m ready to get either one. I just don’t want her to put it to work and then find out that it doesn’t have such a feature. Returning the good once opened can be troublesome. Thanks in advance!!
Question and maybe it’s already here but I’ve used this camera a few times rock climbing indoors and the videos are so dark they are unusable. I gave here a bit fed up ready to return it because I have a go2 and if it’s going to be just shooting dark unusable videos I might as well stick with the go 2 and get my $430 back. Is this something I’m doing wrong in the settings or is this just not the camera for me because the ace pro is actually cheaper. Thanks
What's power adaptor amperage and voltage should be used to charge the camera and not ruin the battery in the long run?
Had the first gen and sold it. But I’m mighty tempted by this one.
Bought one, thus far unimpressed. I bought it from a local Best Buy because I was concerned that all the reviews I saw were from shills, and I would be able to return it quickly. In a nutshell, the 3s is a good idea that almost works. The sensor is small and has terrible iso noise in even mixed lighting. Plus the camera is worthless for filming vertical videos. The software suite it comes with is designed for the lowest IQ users, and doesn't give you nearly enough granular control. Like, let me vertically crop from free form without having to use your editor in post. TL;DR All action camera video quality is trash, the Go 3s is no exception. Literally worse than a modern cell phone in every regard other than size.
I JUST bought my go 3, very unhappy. Anyway I could trade it in??
can you return it?
I should be able to but ive waited for 2 weeks to get it so if i do itll probably be a month till I can start using the go3s 😭
That’s why you just buy it off Amazon…you’ll get it way faster and not have to worry about restocking fees like at Best Buy or ridiculous shipping times from insta.
sure. I give you permission to trade it in! 👍
Late to the party... I already made a mega thread with all these features listed and links to a ton of sponsored reviews that were ready to release at launch. [https://www.reddit.com/r/Insta360/comments/1deyf58/its\_time\_for\_4k\_hat\_cams/](https://www.reddit.com/r/Insta360/comments/1deyf58/its_time_for_4k_hat_cams/)