Insta360 Ace Pro Action Camera (2023) Review: Combining the Best of Both Worlds

The Ace Pro uses a 1/1.3-inch sensor, similar in size to the DJI Action 4, and almost 50 percent larger than the GoPro Hero 12’s sensor, but smaller than the 1-inch sensor of the One RS. The larger sensor size contributes to image quality, which also depends on shooting modes, lighting conditions, and other variables. Side-by-side comparisons with the Insta360 One RS, Ace Pro, and GoPro Hero 12 show the One RS’s superior detail capture, especially with its Leica mod.

In terms of video quality differences, the GoPro, Action 4, and Ace Pro often show more sharpening artifacts than the One RS. However, for videos intended for platforms like TikTok or Instagram, these differences may be negligible due to the lower streaming quality of these services.

The Ace Pro’s footage is largely comparable to the GoPro Hero 12, with each having its strengths. The GoPro performs better in extreme vibration and windy audio conditions, while the Ace Pro excels in well-lit outdoor scenarios with its excellent color rendition. The Ace Pro’s colors are vibrant and realistic, particularly in skin tones. However, it lacks the option to record Log video, limiting its appeal for those who prefer custom color grading.

Video resolution on the Ace Pro reaches 8K at 24 fps, a feature not available in other action cams. While impressive, the practicality of 8K footage is limited by current technology and the lack of affordable 8K monitors. This feature was not available during testing but is expected in a future update.

The absence of 5.3K or 6K settings, present in the non-Pro Ace camera, is a notable omission in the Ace Pro. However, Insta360’s history of adding new features through firmware updates suggests potential enhancements in the future.