The Best Cameras for Running: Insta360 GO S3 vs. X4

Consider yourself a keen runner? Whether it's trail running, cross-country, or just getting your daily jog in, having a camera to capture the journey is part of the fun. Finding the best running camera, however—not so easy!

Modern action cameras may appeal at first as they're chock full of features, but some may be too clunky or heavyweight to be viable for runners. Thankfully, we've got serious options for the best running camera.

In this blog, we'll dive into two options: Insta360 GO 3S and X4. Both offer unique features that cater to runners, so let's dive in and find out what makes them essential for your next run.

GO 3S: The Tiny Powerhouse

Our tiny and seriously mighty GO 3S. At a mere 1.4oz (39g), this is our leading choice if you're looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use action camera for running. It captures footage at a crystal-clear 4K, with built-in FlowState Stabilization to make sure your runs look smooth as butter.

A shot of a hiker using Easy Clip to attach a GO 3S to his hat.

Taking a look at the camera itself, it's fully magnetic. That means you can easily snap it on to all sorts of things, including the accessories that come with it, such as the Magnet Pendant or Easy Clip!

The Magnet Pendant is a subtle necklace you can wear inside your shirt for a completely invisible mounting point for your GO 3S. If you've got something to weigh the pendant down as you run, such as a backpack, you're in business for an immersive low-angle POV!

A show of a woman using GO 3S with the Magnet Pendant accessory.

The Easy Clip is a must for runners and the current favorite among those using GO 3S as a running camera. Mount it onto your hat and get running, you won't feel a thing! It feels just like a normal, lightweight running cap - but you're getting beautiful POV footage as you go!

You aren't limited to just filming standard runs, either. Get creative and try making a memorizing TimeShift as you fly through your route...

A timelapse shot of a runner running through the forest, shot on GO 3.

Or FreeFrame it, and render your footage in any aspect ratio, making it easy to post across all of your socials!

The fun doesn't stop there. GO 3S comes with the Action Pod - transforming your tiny camera into a fully-fledged action cam! With the flip-up touchscreen, you can line up your shot perfectly. Plus, it even charges the camera while it's housed in there. Pretty clever stuff!

A shot of a woman vlogging in Italy with a GO 3S in the Action Pod.

There's also all of the cool features of a regular action cam. You'll have access to stunning timelapses, Insta360's AI editing suite, and much more.

But if you've heard of us before, you're probably wondering: why aren't we talking about 360° cameras? Well, we're glad you asked...

Insta360 X4: 360° Glory

Let's shift our focus to the Insta360 X4, the best-selling 360° action camera that opens up a world of possibilities for runners.

A shot of a woman using X4 while hiking.

At roughly the same size as a cellphone, it's portable but opens up a whole new level of potential footage. 8K 360° video allows you to capture the entire scene as you run, allowing you to focus on yourself, other runners, or just the beautiful views!

Simply grab your X4 and film as you run, knowing that you've got the full picture captured effortlessly! Once you're cooling down after you run, you can view your footage and easily reframe it - no missed shots here, you got everything!

Shot of a man running through a valley using X4 to capture a third-person shot.

Worried about footage as you run? FlowState Stabilization ensures that even when sprinting, your footage looks seriously smooth!

Let's not forget that Invisible Selfie Stick feature too, rendering the stick out of the shot, leaving just you as you run!

So what do I choose?

Both the GO 3S and X4 are fine choices for runners but offer different use cases.

GO 3S remains the top choice for a hands-free running camera, while still offering the ability to swap back to being a traditional action cam should you wish. It's flexible and can be used in all sorts of situations, but of course - no 360° shooting.

If you want to experiment with next-level, 360° shooting in a portable powerhouse - X4 is your go-to. Its undeniable image quality combined with the pure potential of 360° means that wherever you're running, you'll be able to make immersive footage and experiment. That's the beauty of filming everything at once!

In the end, both cameras are bestsellers in the Insta360 range - it's all about finding the perfect fit for your running style and the stories you want to tell.

You can shop GO 3S here or check out Insta360 X4 here. Now let's get out there and set new PBs while taking in the sights!

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