There aren’t a lot of options when it comes to consumer 360 cameras these days, so when Insta360 launched its more powerful One RS modular camera in March, I was a bit disappointed with its option” 360″ 5.7K lens – basically on par with the Sphere, One X2, One R and One X. Don’t get me wrong, they all do well for their form factors (not to mention compute improvements), but after about three years, it’s time for a big upgrade. Turns out Insta360 was saving its “one more thing” for today: a One RS “1-inch 360 Edition” co-branded with Leica.

As the name suggests, this new kit comes with a larger 360 lens module powered by two 1-inch CMOS sensors, and these are capable of capturing at higher resolutions – up to 6K for 360 videos or up to 21 megapixels for 360 photos. This should guarantee improved image quality, especially in low light. It’s also the world’s first 360 camera to be “co-engineered with Leica”, following the two companies’ previous collaboration on the One R’s 1-inch wide-angle module.

Unlike the standard One RS Kit (with the new “4K Boost Lens” or standard “360 Lens”), this “1-inch 360 Edition” uses a vertical assembly to accommodate the larger lens module. From top to bottom: lens, core (with a touch screen), then a vertical battery.

The One RS core boasts an upgraded processor to support built-in “FlowState Stabilization” (which is faster than the app) as well as “Active HDR” video capture for action sports. As for battery life, this whole kit is apparently good for up to 62 minutes of 6K @ 30fps video recording.

The core and battery are inserted into a case, which then clips to the lens to secure the whole device (allowing IPX3 water resistance, which is good enough for rain and snow ). You will still have access to the standard 1/4 inch screw mount on the bottom of the battery.

To disassemble this kit (especially when you need to access the microSD slot), you will first need to open the USB port hatch on the case, then press the two clips under the lens to detach it. It is obviously preferable to keep the soft protective case (included) on the lens during this operation.

The story continues

The Insta360 One RS “1-inch 360 Edition” is available now for $800, which is quite a jump over the $549.99 “Twin Edition” (which comes with a “4K Boost Lens” and a “360 Lens” instead). A company representative explained that this new kit targets the prosumer market, such as users who want to create virtual tours for museums or real estate.

That said, if you already own a One RS, you can buy the same “1-inch 360 Edition” kit without a core for $650, saving you $150. This also applies to those with the older One R, as this lens is backwards compatible.