Insta360 GO 3S vs. DJI Osmo Pocket 3 – Which Vlogging Camera is Best for You?

The DJI Pocket 3 and Insta360 GO 3S are two of the hottest VLOG cameras right now, and after using both for a while for some of my trips, I’m here to share my hands-on experience. I’ll also break down which camera is best suited for different types of users.

Today, we’re diving into the ultimate showdown: Insta360 GO 3S vs. DJI Osmo Pocket 3—which one is the best for your travel VLOG creation? Whether you want to capture every exciting moment of your journey or create stunning cinematic travel videos, both cameras have a lot to offer. But which one truly fits your needs? Don’t worry—by the end of this article, you’ll have your answer!

I will share my experience with both devices from different aspects, including design & portability, image quality & stabilization, features & ease of use, connectivity & app integration, and battery life & pricing.

1. Design & Portability

Insta360 GO 3S: Thumb-Size

First, let’s take a look at the design of these two cameras. The Insta360 GO 3S sticks to its signature thumb-sized design—compact, lightweight, and incredibly portable. Weighing only 35g, it’s so small that you can clip it onto your collar, giving you a true hands-free shooting experience. This makes it perfect for capturing moments effortlessly while staying fully immersed in your adventures.

DJI Osmo Pocket 3: Size of Iphone 15 Pro

On the other hand, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 resembles a mini handheld camera with a more elongated body. It offers a better grip and a complete function as a camera, but it’s also noticeably larger and heavier at 179g.

If ultimate portability is your priority and you want a camera that you can whip out anytime, anywhere, then the Insta360 GO 3S is hands down the better choice. However, if you prefer a more solid grip and a traditional camera experience, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 might be the better fit for you.

📌Verdict: Insta360 GO 3S is more portable and easy to carry.

2. Image Quality & Stabilization

Insta360 GO 3S: Ultra-Wide POV, Smooth Shots

The Insta360 GO 3S features a 1/2.3-inch sensor, supporting a maximum resolution of 2.7K/30fps. While its image quality isn’t as high as the Pocket 3, it compensates with an ultra-wide-angle lens and 360-degree panoramic shooting capabilities, delivering a more immersive and dynamic visual experience.

DJI Osmo Pocket 3: Cinematic Stability, Pro-Grade Shots

In contrast, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is equipped with a large 1-inch sensor, capable of recording 4K/120fps ultra-high-definition video. This results in sharper details, richer colors, and superior performance, especially in low-light conditions. 

When it comes to stabilization, both cameras offer powerful anti-shake technology, ensuring smooth and steady footage even in motion-heavy scenarios. However, the Pocket 3’s mechanical gimbal stabilization has a clear advantage, maintaining rock-solid stability even during intense activities like running or jumping.

📌Verdict: DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is better for high image quality & stabilization.

3. Features & Ease of Use

Insta360 GO 3S: A Record of Creativity

When it comes to features, both cameras have their own strengths. The Insta360 GO 3S is designed for simplicity, allowing you to start recording with just one tap, making it perfect for quickly capturing spontaneous moments. It also offers a variety of creative shooting modes, including time-lapse, slow motion, and motion lapse, helping you create visually stunning footage with ease. Additionally, its magnetic design allows it to be attached to various surfaces, expanding shooting angles and possibilities.

DJI Osmo Pocket 3: Stable VLOG Creator

On the other hand, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 comes with a wider range of advanced features, such as auto-tracking, gesture controls, and HDR video, making it easier to shoot professional-grade footage. It also features a 2-inch rotatable touchscreen, providing a more convenient way to frame your shots and navigate settings.

📌Verdict: Insta360 GO 3S excels in creative, hands-free shooting, especially best for first-person view. DJI Osmo Pocket 3 offers superior stability and pro-level controls.

4. Connectivity and App Integration

Insta360 GO 3S: AI-Powered Simplicity & Effortless Sharing

The Insta360 app offers AI-powered editing with features like Auto Edit and Shot Lab, making quick edits effortless. It supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy footage transfer but lacks built-in live streaming and external mic support. However, it allows wireless audio recording with compatible devices. Ideal for fast, social media-friendly content creation.

DJI Osmo Pocket 3: Pro-Level Control & Live Streaming

The DJI Mimo app provides manual controls for pro-level editing. It supports USB-C, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth for faster file transfers and external SSD storage. Unlike the GO 3S, it features built-in live streaming and external mic support, including wireless mic integration. Perfect for vloggers and professionals needing real-time broadcasting and high-quality audio.

📌Verdict: Choose Insta360 GO 3S for quick AI edits and easy sharing, or Pocket 3 for advanced customization, live streaming, and superior audio options. 🚀

5. Battery Life & Pricing

Insta360 GO 3S: The camera alone offers a battery life of approximately 38 minutes. When paired with the Action Pod, this extends to around 140 minutes. ​

The Standard Bundle for Insta360 GO 3S (64GB) is priced at $416.99 USD. ​

DJI Osmo Pocket 3: Features a battery life of about 166 minutes. Additionally, it supports fast charging, allowing the battery to reach 80% capacity in approximately 16 minutes.

The Standard Package is available for $519 USD, while the Creator Combo, which includes additional accessories, is priced at $669 USD.

Standard Insta360 Go3s Camera Comes with:

• 1x GO 3S Camera (64GB or 128GB)
• 1x Lens Guard (pre-installed on the lens by default)
• 1x Action Pod – transforms the GO 3S into a full-sized action camera, offering a touchscreen display and extended battery life.
• 1x Magnetic Pendant – attach the GO 3S to your clothing for hands-free recording.
• 1x Pivot Stand – A sticky base for mounting the Action Pod onto flat surfaces, with a removable pivot section that can be screwed onto a standard tripod.
• 1x Easy Clip – A convenient clip that lets you secure the GO 3S to items like the brim of a cap.
• Color Available: Midnight Black or Arctic White

Standard Osmo Pocket 3 Comes with:

• 1x Osmo Pocket 3
• 1x Type-C to Type-C PD Cable
• 1x Osmo Pocket 3 Protective Cover
• 1x DJI Wrist Strap
• 1x Osmo Pocket 3 Handle With 1/4″ Thread (allows you to mount it onto tripods, selfie sticks, or other accessories)

Which One Is Better for You: Insta360 Go 3S or Pocket 3?

Overall, both the Insta360 GO 3S and DJI Osmo Pocket 3 are excellent action cameras, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

If portability and creative shooting are your top priorities, and you want a camera that’s lightweight, easy to use, and ready to shoot anytime, anywhere, then the GO 3S is your best choice. Its compact design and simple controls make it perfect for capturing every exciting moment on your journey effortlessly.

Best Use Scenarios for Insta360 Go 3S:

• Creative Social Media Content – Its unique shooting modes and easy sharing features make it perfect for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.
• First-Person POV Recording – Perfect for capturing hands-free, immersive first-person perspective videos while walking, biking, or exploring.
• Casual Daily Life & Lifestyle Content – A discreet and easy way to document everyday moments, from cooking to behind-the-scenes footage.
• Pet & Baby POV – Attach to a pet harness or stroller to capture adorable first-person views from your furry friend or little one’s perspective.
• Travel Vlogging on the Go – Its compact size and quick capture feature make it ideal for spontaneous travel shots without carrying bulky gear.
• Action Sports & Adventure – Easily mounts on helmets, bikes, surfboards, or clothing to record high-energy activities like skateboarding, parkour, or hiking.

If you prioritize image quality and stability and have the budget for it, the Pocket 3 is the better option. With a larger sensor, superior stabilization, and more advanced shooting modes, it allows you to create stunning, professional-level travel videos.

Best Use Scenarios for DJI Osmo Pocket 3

• Food & Product Reviews – The close-up focus and stabilized tracking make it perfect for reviewing food, gadgets, or unboxing content without the need for tripods.
• Professional Vlogging & YouTube Content – With its 1-inch sensor, 4K/120fps video, and 3-axis gimbal, the Pocket 3 delivers cinematic-quality footage for serious content creators.
• Travel Filmmaking – The rotatable touchscreen, auto-tracking, and superior low-light performance make it perfect for capturing smooth, high-quality travel videos in any condition.
• Live Streaming & Real-Time Broadcasting – Built-in live streaming support allows seamless broadcasting to YouTube, Facebook, and other platforms with stabilized, high-quality footage.
• Walking & Talking Shots – Perfect for smooth, handheld vlogging while walking, thanks to its gimbal stabilization and subject-tracking technology.
  Low-Light & Night Videography – The larger sensor and HDR capabilities ensure clearer, high-quality night time footage, outperforming most action cameras in dim environments.

Insta360 GO 3S: Downsides to Consider

After spending time with both the Insta360 GO 3S and DJI Osmo Pocket 3, it’s clear that each has its strengths—but no device is perfect. While both cameras deliver impressive performance in their own ways, I did encounter a few frustrations during my experience. 

Now, let’s dive into the downsides of each device, so you know exactly what to expect before making a choice.

1. Overheating! It gets extremely hot very easily during use. After just ten minutes of filming, it became too hot to handle. Sometimes it overheats and shuts down directly.
2. Bad video quality under low-lighting. Although the Go3s has been upgraded to 4K 30fps, the footage turns out very blurry in low-light conditions. It is not suitable for any night shoots.
3. If you’re planning to shoot long videos, I wouldn’t recommend bringing it. It’s only suitable for short video clips because it drains the battery really fast. 

Where DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Falls Short

1. Not Fully Hands-Free – Requires handheld operation or mounting on a tripod, lacking the magnetic mounting flexibility of the GO 3S.
2. Gimbal is More Fragile – The mechanical gimbal requires careful handling to prevent damage, making it less rugged for extreme sports. I ended up buying multiple accessories to protect the device, including a protective case and gimbal lock to prevent accidental damage, in another way, not as portable as it seems.
3. Needs More Accessories for Full Potential – Features like external mics, tripod mounts, and wireless transmission require additional purchases.
4. Limited Waterproofing – Unlike action cameras, Pocket 3 isn’t waterproof without a case, restricting its use in wet or underwater environments.

Insta360 GO 3S vs. DJI Osmo Pocket 3: Feature-by-Feature Comparison

Conclusion: GO 3S or Pocket 3?

Both the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and Insta360 GO 3S are outstanding cameras, but they serve very different purposes. If you’re looking for a stable, high-quality VLOG camera, the Pocket 3 is the clear winner. From superior image quality to excellent stabilization, it’s perfect for those with a colorful and exciting life who want to document their experiences with cinematic precision.

On the other hand, the Insta360 GO 3S is all about creativity and spontaneity. If you’re someone who loves capturing everyday moments and turning them into fun, dynamic shots, this compact action camera is the ideal choice. Its unique angles and hands-free shooting make even the most ordinary moments look exciting.

At the end of the day, it’s not about which camera is better—it’s about which one fits your lifestyle and storytelling style. Let me know which you prefer and why!