Insta360 GO 3S, full review: the 4K version of the GO 3!

An update of the GO 3, released a year earlier, the Insta360 GO 3S gives the world’s smallest action camera the ability to shoot in 4K resolution. What else is new? What’s in her belly? Is the switch from 3 to 3S worth it? All the answers are in this article.

Insta360 GO 3S: design

Dimensions (L x H x W)	GO 3S Camera: 25.6 x 54.4 x 24.8 mm Action Pod (folded screen): 63.5 x 47.6 x 29.5 mm Action Pod (screen unfolded): 63.5 x 86.6 x 29.9 mm
Weight	GO 3S: 39.1 g Action Pod: 96.3 g
Touch screen	2.2 inches
Internal memory	64 GB or 128 GB (depending on model chosen)
Waterproofing	GO 3S: waterproof up to 10 meters (IPX8) Action Pod: splashproof (IPX4)
Operating temperature	from -20°C to 40°C

Design (almost) identical to GO 3

Apart from a few small details on the surface that differentiate them, the Insta360 GO 3S is virtually the twin of its predecessor, the GO 3 (for short).

As a reminder, this camera adopts a unique concept, composed of two elements:

• the camera: oval and thumb-sized, with a single button to start and stop recording. On its own, it’s the world’s smallest and lightest action camera. It integrates the memory of the whole system (there is no memory card slot): 64 or 128 GB depending on the option chosen.
• the Action Pod: a case into which the camera can be magnetically inserted to transform it into a GoPro-type action camera, and which also allows it to be recharged. Extremely easy to use, it features a flip-up 2.2-inch touchscreen, visible from both front and back, the record button, an on/off button, a quick menu button for switching between shooting modes, and a USB-C port for recharging.

Both modules still feature a magnetic face, enabling them to be attached to any metal surface (well, especially the lighter camera part).

The camera module retains virtually the same dimensions, but is only 1.6mm thicker, and weighs 39.1g, up from 35.5g. It is now waterproof to 10 meters (compared to 5 meters previously), offering a slightly more comfortable margin for diving enthusiasts.

TheAction Pod is technically identical to the previous version. The camera part of the GO 3S is even compatible with the GO 3’s Action Pod and can be purchased separately (as we’ll see in the Pricing section). Note that it is still not waterproof, but simply splash-proof.

📸 3 ways to use the GO 3S
The Insta360 GO 3S can be used in three different ways, making it extremely versatile:
1️⃣ Attached to the Action Pod : Like a GoPro or DJI Osmo Action camera.
2️⃣ Remotely controlled: The camera module alone can be controlled by the Action Pod, which acts as a remote control unit for controlling and viewing the image in real time. It is also possible to use a smartphone with the Insta360 application.
3️⃣ Independent: The camera module can be used on its own, triggering recording via its front-panel button, programmable for two different functions.

Insta360 GO 3S: battery and autonomy

Batteries	GO 3S: 310 mAh Action Pod: 1270 mAh
Autonomy	GO 3S: 38 minutes GO 3S + Action Pod: 140 minutes
Charging time	GO 3S: 80% in 23 minutes, 100% in 35 minutes Action Pod: 80% in 47 minutes, 100% in 65 minutes
Loading method	GO 3S : Action Pod Action Pod: Type-C

The two modules that make up the Insta360 GO 3S – the camera and the Action Pod – are still equipped with non-removable internal batteries. So it’s essential to charge the whole set before setting off on a shoot, as you won’t be able to carry extra batteries.

While this new “S” version brings a number of improvements, there are also a few compromises. Indeed, the camera module’s small 310mAh battery now offers just 38 minutes of Full HD video recording, 7 minutes less than its predecessor’s 45 minutes.

Fortunately, the Action Pod can also be used as a charging station, thanks to its 1270mAh battery. If the housing is fully charged, the camera can be recharged several times. The total autonomy of the two devices combined, although down 30 minutes on the previous version, is still a very comfortable 140 minutes.

Insta360 GO 3S: photos and video

Opening	F2.8
Focal length equivalent to 35 mm	16 mm
Photo resolution	4000×2250 (16:9) 2880×2880 (1:1) 3968×1472 (2.7:1) 4000×3000 (4:3)
Video resolution	4K up to 30 fps 2.7K up to 30 fps 1080p up to 50 fps
Idle time	2.7K at 100 fps 1080p at 120/200 fps
Photo format	JPG DNG
Video format	MP4
ISO range	100-3200
Maximum video rate	120 Mbps
Color Profiles	Standard Bright Flat Portrait
Audio modes	Wind reduction Stereo Directional enhancement
Photo Modes	Photo HDR photo Interval Starlapse
Video modes	Video FreeFrame video Timelapse TimeShift Slow Motion Pre-registration Loop recording Interval video

Modes and features

In order to adapt to all social networks, the insta360 GO 3S can shoot in horizontal format (16:9) if you prefer to publish on Youtube, for example, and vertical (9:16), if you’re more inclined towards TikTok or Instagram stories. But it also features FreeFrame mode, which lets you shoot using the entire sensor and decide on the format later. This means you can use the same video in horizontal, vertical or both formats.

As far as photo modes are concerned, there’s nothing new. The classic functions are still there: single photo mode, HDR photo mode for more vivid images, Interval mode, which captures images at regular intervals, and Starlapse mode for those magnificent circular trails of stars in the sky.

The video modes include the following functions already present on the GO 3:

• Timelapse mode for time-lapse videos from a fixed point.
• TimeShift mode for accelerated and moving videos.
• Slow Motion mode, with higher frame rates than the previous version (2.7k at 100 fps and 1080p at 200 fps).
• pre-recording mode, which starts storing a video even before you start recording, to make sure you don’t miss a thing.
• loop recording mode, which makes the GO 3S work like a dashcam, recording continuously.

But the GO 3S also brings a host of new features:

• Easy Switch mode: switches from horizontal to vertical format simply by rotating the camera.
• MegaView FOV mode: a new wide-angle mode that reduces edge distortion, delivering straighter, sharper images.
• Interval video: capture videos throughout the day at regular intervals, then compiled by the AI to create an original montage.
• Gesture control: already present on other cameras from the brand, it enables photos and videos to be taken with a simple gesture of the hand. Voice control is also available.
• Statistics overlay: integrates data from your Garmin or Apple Watch device for enhanced visualization.
• Apple Find My: the GO 3S is compatible with Apple’s location system, making it easy to find your camera if you lose it.

The GO 3S image still benefits from the manufacturer’s FlowState stabilization system, which works extremely well. You can choose between three different levels of stabilization, or disable it altogether.

On the audio side, the camera is equipped with two microphones, offering three modes to best adapt to the environment in which you’re filming: Stereo, Wind Reduction and Directional Enhancement.

Resolution and image quality

The big news is that the Insta360 GO 3S can now shoot in 4K resolution (up to 30 frames per second), whereas the GO 3 was limited to 2.7K. Same improvement on the photo front, with resolution up from 6.6MP to 12MP. As a logical consequence of these improvements, video throughput also increases, from 80 to 120 Mbps.

There’s no contest on paper: the GO 3S delivers overall superior image quality. When comparing photos or videos shot with the GO 3 and the GO 3S, the difference is obvious: images are sharper and richer in detail, particularly in the background.

Like the GO 3, the GO 3S maintains good handling of backlit scenes, with faces generally well exposed. However, the minimum focusing distance is slightly longer—by a few tens of centimeters—compared to the previous generation. Close-up enthusiasts have been warned.

Despite these improvements, the GO 3S still lags behind more traditional action cameras such as the DJI Osmo Action 4 or the GoPro HERO 12 Black, especially in low-light conditions.

Insta360 GO 3S: the price

GO 3S camera only	from €239.99	See on Amazon
Standard package	from € 399.99	See on Amazon
Action Pack	from €443
Aquatic pack	from €486
Family pack	from €498
Ultimate pack	from €518

In a rare move, the Insta360 GO 3S boasts a lower price than its predecessor. The standard packincluding camera, magnetic pendant, swivel mount and Easy Clip (details in the orange box below), is priced at 399.99 euros for the 64GB version, i.e. 50 euros less than the original GO 3.

The camera is available in two colors: arctic white and midnight black. You also have a choice of built-in memory capacity: 64 or 128 GB. The 128 GB version costs an extra 30 euros.

The GO 3S is also available in several packs containing additional accessories specific to the main activity you plan to use it for.

Four packs are available:

• Action Pack (from €443): includes various supports and protections.
• Aquatic Pack (from €486): includes waterproof case and diving handle.
• Family Pack (from €498): includes a 2-in-1 mini tripod.
• Ultimate Pack (from €518): includes mini tripod and carry bag.

Important note for GO 3 owners: the camera is also available on its own. This means you can buy just the camera part (and thus enjoy 4K), which is fully compatible with your current camera’s Action Pod. This allows you to upgrade your hardware at a lower cost: €239.99 for the 64 GB version and €269. 99 for the 128 GB version.

✚ Basic accessories
The Insta360 GO 3 basic kit includes useful accessories for a variety of uses:
Magnetic pendant: a necklace with a magnetic base for attaching the GO 3 to the chest.
Swivel stand : a swivel bar with magnetic attachment and universal screw thread for tripods or poles, plus a reusable adhesive base.
Easy Clip: a holder for attaching the GO 3 to a cap, offering adjustable first-person shots.

Conclusion Insta360 GO 3S: Who’s it for?

The Insta360 GO 3S, like its big sister the GO 3, has a knack for encouraging creativity. Its small size, magnetic attachment and various accessories enable it to be mounted anywhere and at any angle, offering unique viewpoints, including first-person perspectives with hands-free operation.

The great strength of the GO 3S lies in its versatility. You can use it for FPV drones, first-person videos, or attach it wherever your imagination takes you, like on your cat’s collar or the skylight of a soccer cage, where it will attach like a magnet in 1 second.

An interesting upgrade

The main new feature of the GO 3S compared to the GO 3 is its ability to shoot in 4K, which considerably increases its appeal. In addition to this improved resolution, the GO 3S offers several new features, including Easy Switch and gesture control. The FreeFrame mode allows you to frame the image as you wish after shooting, making the camera perfectly compatible with all social networks and types of publication.

The GO 3S comes as a pleasant surprise at a lower price than the GO 3. It’s still more expensive than models like the DJI Osmo Action 4 or GoPro 12, but the extra cost can be justified if you’re looking to get unique shots with ease.

Already one of the most creative and powerful action cameras on the market in its first version, the GO 3S now adds 4K resolution to its features, making it even more attractive. Compact, lightweight and extremely versatile, it will accompany you wherever you go, whatever your activities.

Key improvements 👍🏻

• 4K resolution
• Up to 10 metres of waterproofing
• Improved slow motion at 100 fps in 2.7K and 200 fps in 1080p
• New features: Easy Switch, gesture control, etc.

Small defects to be taken into account 👎🏻

• Non-waterproof Action Pod case
• Overall image quality inferior to that of traditional action cameras
• Moderate battery life (for camera only)

I already have the Insta360 GO 3. Should I replace it with the GO 3S?

It all depends on your needs. If 2.7K resolution is enough for you, if you don’t dive, and if the current modes meet your expectations, then there’s probably no need to change. However, if you want better resolution and image quality, and some of the new features seem useful, the upgrade could be worthwhile. What’s more, with the option of buying just the camera module, the decision becomes even easier!

See also our Insta360 GO 3S vs GO 3 point-by-point comparison :
➡️ Insta360 GO 3S vs GO 3: what’s the difference?

Read our full review of the Insta360 GO 3 :
➡️ Insta360 GO 3: our complete test

💡 Also worth reading:
👉 Interested in the brand’s 360° cameras too? Check out our Insta360 X3 vs X4 comparison.