When it comes to capturing epic outdoor adventures—especially on two wheels—the right camera can make or break the story. Insta360, known for its innovative and high-quality action cams, has two standout models that mountain bikers swear by: the Insta360 X4 and the Insta360 Ace Pro 2. We took both cameras deep into the trails to see which one deserves a permanent spot in your outdoor gear bag.
One or the other? Maybe both? You pick.
EASE OF USE ON THE MOVE
On rugged terrain, convenience isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. The Ace Pro 2 scores highly here with its intuitive controls and clever magnetic quick-release mounting system. Clipping this cam onto your chest, helmet, or handlebars takes mere seconds, making it ideal for spontaneous outdoor captures.
Whatever it’s pointed at, that’s what it’s taking in and it takes in a lot. It has the widest FOV out there right now, and when it comes to action content, that’s super important.
The X4, with its dual-lens design, initially demands more attention when setting up. But what it lacks in immediate ease, it makes up for in post-production freedom. Its revolutionary “shoot first, frame later” approach means you can capture everything, then decide your angles after the ride. With the Insta360 app, reframing shots is fast and fun, and for those who prefer full control, the Adobe Premiere plugin lets you refine every frame like a pro.
VIDEO QUALITY AND STABILIZATION
Both cameras deliver stunning footage, but they have their distinct strengths. Let’s start with resolution—both the X4 and the Ace Pro 2 can shoot in 4K and 8K, which means crisp, high-detail footage regardless of which one you choose. The X4 truly stands out with its full 360-degree recording capabilities, capturing everything around you and providing ultimate flexibility when editing. Whether you want immersive perspectives or dynamic third-person views, the X4 is built for creative storytelling.
Meanwhile, the Ace Pro 2 delivers exceptional clarity and vibrant colors straight out of the camera. Its upgraded stabilization—perfected for demanding mountain trails—provides impressively smooth and shake-free footage, even over rocky descents or rough terrain. This makes the Ace Pro 2 particularly appealing for riders who prefer minimal post-processing.
TOUGHNESS AND DURABILITY
The trail can be unforgiving, and cameras must withstand rough conditions. Both Insta360 models proved impressively durable, taking hard knocks, mud splashes, and sudden rain showers without a glitch. However, the Ace Pro 2 truly excels in extreme conditions—particularly in cold weather. It powered through sub-zero temperatures without losing performance or shutting down, making it an ideal companion for colder climates or high-altitude adventures.
BATTERY LIFE AND RELIABILITY
Battery life matters, especially on full-day adventures—and a lot depends on how you use each cam. The Ace Pro 2, when shooting in standard 4K at 60fps, lasted us close to 100 minutes of continuous recording. Drop it to 30fps or enable power-saving features, and you can stretch it further.
The X4, with its powerful 8K 360-degree capture, is naturally more demanding. Shooting at 8K 30fps drains the battery in about 75 minutes. You can get more out of it by recording in 5.7K or switching to 4K single-lens mode, but you’ll still want to pack an extra battery for longer sessions.
It’s worth noting: the X4 gives you the flexibility of reframing and immersive edits—but that versatility comes at a cost in power. The Ace Pro 2, meanwhile, is a bit more plug-and-play, and more forgiving if you’re planning to film all day without stopping.
WHICH ONE SHOULD YOU PICK?
Choosing between these two exceptional action cameras ultimately depends on your riding style and creative preferences. If you love experimenting with angles, immersive storytelling, and having total creative freedom in post-production, the Insta360 X4 is your tool. Its advanced editing features—both in-app and via the Adobe Premiere plugin—unlock endless possibilities.
On the other hand, if you prioritize simplicity, quick mounting options, exceptional stabilization straight out of the camera, and reliability under challenging conditions, the Ace Pro 2 might be your perfect trail partner.
Whichever you pick, both cameras will elevate your trail edits—capturing every moment just as epic as it felt.