recommendations and six models for all budgets

Compact cameras with high video quality for the most adventurous

The views from the top of a mountain or a rooftop, a walk through nature in its full splendor, a bike ride or a dive under the sea… there are many scenarios where you may be interested in recording or immortalizing a complete scene, that is, covering 360 degrees. And with these cameras you can do it. In this 360º camera buying guide We tell you how they work, how to choose a model correctly and we propose a careful selection of candidates.

Our selection of 360 cameras, at a glance

What is a 360 camera and how does it work?

As their name suggests, these cameras are capable of recording or photographing covering 360 degrees. How do they do that? Thanks to the fact that they integrate several wide-angle lenses (minimum two) and a processing system that interprets the images and unites them. Ideally, “the seams” should not be visible.. That is, each lens points at different angles, takes its own photo, it is processed and what you get is a single image of everything around you.

The Photo quality and size may vary depending on the characteristics and quantity of said sensors. The most ambitious ones will require a more powerful processor, having to process more angles and photos/videos.

360º cameras are mainly divided into two types: monoscopic and stereoscopic. In the first type, the video is recorded and then the content of the field of view of several lenses is combined to generate a complete image. The second ones use two cameras, one for each eye, which allows creating a three-dimensional image. In this process, lower resolution images are generated compared to monoscopic ones, which is why the former are the most interesting for content creators.

How to choose a 360º camera

Before choosing a 360 camera, consider the following features:

In a 360 camera we will find at least two lenses, wide-angle type with a field of view that is around 180 degrees. Precisely the lenses are one of the most important components: look at your shutter time and ISO range.
Image quality in photo and video. The resolution that the camera is capable of generally is decisive, given that 360 content requires an ambitious resolution to match the quality of normal videos, so look for high resolutions. To give you an idea, 3D videos usually have half the resolution of a 2D camcorder. If we want a good level of detail and sharpness, it is better that they exceed 10MP resolution in photos and at least Full HD (1920x1080p) in video as a minimum. However, a good 360 camera should be able to record 4K video and take at least 15MP images.
The SPF. Although some of the most advanced 360 cameras can capture more than 50 frames per second, 30fps is a good figure to ensure speeds similar to standard camcorders.
If you are going to use your 360 camera on the movethen you are interested in having stabilization software to minimize the effect of vibrations, shocks and sudden changes.
As we explained in its operation, 360 videos and photos are created by joining two or more images using multiple lenses. A good 360 camera should join these images either within the camera itself or from the app you install on your phone. Ideally, the seams in the images should be of quality.that is, as subtle and discreet as possible.
Ease of handling. Taking into account that it is a device that we are going to use on the go, it is important that it be manageable and intuitive. Also take a look at the interface, options and fluidity of the application
Storage. While the most affordable ones have an SD slot to expand your storage space, the most advanced ones have internal hard drives.
Autonomy. These types of cameras require a good battery, taking into account the processing power required to generate 360° content. More than mAh, pay attention to the average battery life (hours of recording/shooting). It is worth investing in models that last around an hour of actual use instead of a few minutes, enough to make short videos during daily activities or trips. Another option: carry the charger or an extra battery with you.
Dimensions and water resistance. Normally, this type of camera is used outdoors, but if you also want it for sports, it is essential that it has a robust, compact design that can withstand some exposure to liquids and dust.

360 cameras: featured models

Kodak Pixpro Sp360 4K

If you are looking for an affordable model to try the 360-degree photo and video experience, this Kodak Pixpro Sp360 (394.69 euros) is a good candidate to start.

Extremely compact, very easy to use and with a sporting vocationit has three buttons for operation, an app for managing content from your mobile (Wi-FI/NFC) and be careful because it is resistant to water, shocks (up to 2 meters), dust and freezing (-10 degrees). .

Yes indeed, Its features as a camera are rather modest, with a 16MP sensor, 4K video recording and captures 10MP photos with continuous shooting. It has a 1,250 mAh battery and an SD card slot of up to 128 GB.