10 Best 360 VR cameras 2025 in the United States

The Insta360 X5 is a high-end 360° action camera that excels in many areas important for immersive video. It shoots stunning 8K videos at 30fps using dual large sensors, which means you get very detailed, colorful footage with good dynamic range. Its triple AI chip setup improves low-light performance, so you can capture clear shots even in darker conditions—a big plus if you plan to shoot at night or indoors. The camera offers FlowState Stabilization and 360° Horizon Lock, providing smooth, level videos without needing extra gear like gimbals.

Battery life is solid, lasting about 3 hours, and it supports fast charging, which is handy for long days out. The camera is waterproof up to 49 feet, so it's great for underwater adventures without extra housing. Its lenses are tough, scratch-resistant, and easily replaceable, enhancing durability and maintenance. The built-in wind guard and 4-microphone setup deliver clearer audio by reducing wind noise, which can be challenging for action cameras.

Ease of use is enhanced by a 2.5-inch touchscreen and useful AI features like the Invisible Selfie Stick (sold separately), which lets you create unique angles without the selfie stick showing in the footage. The InstaFrame mode helps you quickly create share-ready videos without heavy editing. However, the camera relies on microSD cards for storage (not included), so you’ll need to buy those separately. Although it’s feature-packed, the weight (about 1.19 pounds) is a bit heavier than some competitors, which might be noticeable if handheld for long periods. The Insta360 X5 suits users seeking top-notch 360° video quality, excellent stabilization, and ruggedness for outdoor and underwater use. It may be less suitable if you prefer a lighter camera or want built-in storage. Its smart AI tools and durability make it a strong choice for adventurers, vloggers, and those serious about immersive content creation.

The GoPro Hero12 Black is an impressive action camera that fits well within the 360 VR camera category, particularly for those who love outdoor adventures and high-quality video capture. Its standout feature is the 5.3K resolution, which delivers remarkable video clarity and detail, far exceeding traditional 4K options. This makes it ideal for users looking to capture immersive experiences in stunning detail, whether it's on a mountain, in the ocean, or anywhere in between. The camera also offers 27MP photos and HDR capabilities, enhancing image quality in varied lighting conditions.

One of the key strengths of the Hero12 Black is its Emmy Award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, which ensures smooth footage even in turbulent environments. This stabilization, combined with the 360° Horizon Lock feature, allows for creative filming without the need for additional equipment like a gimbal. The camera’s robust build is another advantage, being waterproof up to 33 feet and rugged enough for extreme conditions.

On the downside, while the GoPro Hero12 Black excels in video quality and stabilization, its battery life, although improved with the Enduro battery, still offers about 70 minutes of recording at top resolution, which can be limiting for long shoots. Additionally, those looking for an extensive zoom might find the field of view a bit restrictive, as it focuses more on a wide-angle perspective than zoom capabilities. Storage could also be a concern, as it relies on SD cards and does not have built-in storage, which means users will need to invest in high-capacity cards to fully utilize the camera's capabilities. Lastly, while the camera has Bluetooth audio connectivity, some users might prefer more advanced audio features if they plan on using it for vlogs or other audio-centric projects.

The RICOH THETA Z1 is a robust 360° camera designed for those who want to capture high-quality immersive images and videos. With a resolution of 23MP and the ability to shoot 4K video, it delivers stunning visual quality perfect for real estate photography, virtual tours, or event coverage. The inclusion of dual 1-inch CMOS sensors enhances image quality by reducing ghosting and flare, making it an excellent choice for both indoor and outdoor scenes.

One of its standout features is the impressive 51GB of internal memory, allowing users to store a significant amount of images and videos without needing additional storage. The camera’s dynamic image stabilization ensures smooth video capture, which is vital for creating professional-looking content. Enhanced HDR processing further elevates its capability to manage varied brightness levels, making it easier to take great shots in challenging lighting conditions.

The THETA Z1 lacks water resistance, which may limit its use in outdoor scenarios where there's a risk of exposure to the elements. Additionally, while the user interface is straightforward, those unfamiliar with advanced camera settings might find the learning curve a bit steep. The camera does have a compact design, but weighing 182 grams, it might feel slightly heavier than some users prefer for prolonged handheld use. Equipped with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, sharing content is straightforward, particularly with the support for live streaming to platforms like YouTube. However, the absence of a touchscreen display limits real-time framing and adjustments.