Insta360 has unveiled the GO Ultra, the newest model in its compact action camera series. This year’s version is larger and heavier than its predecessor but offers a notable boost in performance.
Replacing the 2024 Insta360 GO 3S, the GO Ultra forgoes the previous model’s slim, thumb-sized design for a more substantial, square form. It also comes in at 53 grams, which is heavier than the GO 3S’s 39 grams. Nonetheless, the GO Ultra remains compact and light enough that most action camera enthusiasts won’t be discouraged, especially in light of the enhancements.
While the GO 3S captures video at 4K and 30fps, the GO Ultra enhances the frame rate, recording 4K video at 60fps. Whether this results in immediate benefits hinges on what you’re filming and if you possess a 4K display, though higher resolutions typically confer future advantages.
The GO Ultra is equipped with a larger 1/1.28-inch sensor in comparison to the GO 3S’s 1/2.3-inch sensor. Insta360 appears to have acted on feedback concerning the GO 3S’s subpar low-light performance, asserting that the GO Ultra’s sensor captures 200% more light for improved night-time photography.
Another significant improvement is the GO Ultra’s increased battery life. The GO 3S offers 38 minutes on a single charge, or 140 minutes when paired with its Action Pod, while the GO Ultra provides a more reasonable 70-minute runtime, or 200 minutes with the Action Pod. This extended battery duration should alleviate users’ concerns regarding battery life, facilitating longer filming periods. The charging time is also reduced, with the Action Pod bringing the GO Ultra to 80% in just 12 minutes, compared to 23 minutes for the GO 3S.
In contrast to the GO 3S, the Insta360 GO Ultra utilizes SD cards instead of built-in storage. This might pose an inconvenience if you wish to use the camera immediately, but it’s advantageous for videographers who prefer to swap out SD cards during prolonged filming sessions. Users should consider the expense of acquiring compatible SD cards if they do not already possess them.
Similar to other cameras in the GO series, the GO Ultra is equipped with a magnetic back for direct attachment to metal surfaces, simplifying setup by negating the need for additional mounting equipment. It also comes with a magnetic clip mount and a magnet pendant for wearing around the neck when metal surfaces are unavailable.
The GO Ultra’s magnetic mounting is perfect for stable, immobile surfaces like a refrigerator door. For external shots of a vehicle, however, you’ll require a mount like the GO Ultra’s Pivot Stand, which utilizes magnets and small latches to secure the camera, along with a reusable sticky base for smooth surfaces.
The Insta360 GO Ultra is set to launch globally on August 21, retailing for $449.99 for the standard bundle. This is merely $20 higher than the 128GB GO 3S, not including the cost of an SD card. Considering the performance enhancements, the additional expense for the Insta360 GO Ultra is warranted, provided that concerns regarding SD cards are not an issue.