The Insta360 Luna Ultra was recently launched globally in early June, and it is officially available in Germany now. This marks the debut of Insta360’s first-ever gimbal camera, directly challenging DJI’s well-established Osmo Pocket series. With two standout features, a dual-camera module that includes both wide-angle and telephoto lenses, along with a detachable display that serves as a remote control and wireless microphone, the Luna Ultra offers a formidable alternative to existing options.
Gimbals and Competing Brands
Insta360 has managed to beat DJI to the market with this product launch, even though DJI teased its first dual-gimbal camera back in mid-May. However, this delay does not seem to affect the experience of German buyers for now. Meanwhile, a patent dispute has emerged between DJI and Insta360 in the USA, but it is unlikely to have any immediate repercussions for European consumers.
Innovative Dual-Camera System
The core innovation of the Luna Ultra is its dual-camera system developed in collaboration with Leica. The primary camera features a 1-inch sensor and a Leica Summicron lens (f/1.8), equivalent to a 20mm wide-angle shot. The telephoto camera has a 1/1.3-inch sensor and f/2.0 optics, equivalent to a 60mm focal length. This unique setup allows for five usable zoom levels (1×, 2×, 3×, 6× lossless, and up to 12× digital), facilitating a ‘natural bokeh’ effect and framing flexibility that was previously unattainable in gimbal cameras.
Video Performance: 8K and Slower Frame Rates
The camera can record videos up to 8K at 30fps, in either a classic 16:9 or a wider 2.35:1 aspect ratio (7680 × 3264 pixels). 4K recordings can reach up to 120fps, while slow-motion capture options include 4K at 120fps and Full HD at up to 240fps. Videos are recorded using the H.265/HEVC format in an MP4 container at a maximum bitrate of 120 Mbit/s. Additionally, creators will appreciate native 9:16 portrait formats and 1:1 formats, perfect for social media. The device comes equipped with 47GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via microSD cards up to 1TB.
Detachable Display Functionality
Another feature that sets the Luna Ultra apart is its 2-inch OLED touchscreen display, which can be completely detached and used as a remote control with HD video preview, effective from up to 20 meters away. This is particularly useful for solo creators who wish to position the camera on a tripod and film themselves. The display unit even includes an independent microphone, enabling it to function as a wireless microphone for capturing audio during interviews, complemented by a four-microphone array for enriched sound quality.
Intelligent Processing and Stabilization
The Luna Ultra leverages a triple-AI chip system for image processing and features to enhance low-light performance. The camera also employs a three-axis gimbal stabilization mechanism combined with electronic image stabilization. The Deep Track 5.0 tracking system supports auto, group, and zoom tracking, facilitating easy production workflows for aspiring filmmakers.
Market Launch and Price Point
Curiously, the international rollout of the Luna Ultra has been staggered, mirroring DJI’s past strategies. While the camera was launched in many countries from June 10, German customers had to wait several weeks. The retail price in Germany starts at €729, which includes the camera, a protective cover, wind protection, a grip with a 1/4″ thread, and a wrist strap. Multiple bundle options are available, catering to creators, vloggers, and long-term users.
Conclusion: A Competitive Choice
As Insta360 unveils the Luna Ultra, it sets the stage for a fierce competition with DJI’s Osmo Pocket 4P. While DJI offers advantages in image quality and additional features, the Luna Ultra counters with flexibility and innovative functionalities like a detachable display. In today’s market filled with diverse camera options, the Luna Ultra provides a compelling choice for both enthusiasts and creators alike.
