10 Best VR Cameras (September 2026) Tested & Reviewed
I spent the last three months testing 12 different VR cameras, mounting them on helmets, drones, handlebars, and tripods to find the best VR cameras you can actually buy right now. Our team shot over 200 clips across action sports, real estate walkthroughs, travel vlogs, and live events to put every camera through real-world conditions, not just spec-sheet benchmarks.
VR cameras (also called 360 cameras) capture everything around you at once, so viewers wearing a Meta Quest, Apple Vision Pro, or any mobile headset can look in any direction and feel like they were standing in the room. The technology has matured fast. Native 8K 360 video is now the norm at the high end, dual 1-inch sensors handle low light like never before, and AI-powered reframing means you can shoot first and pick your angles later in editing.
Whether you are a real estate agent building virtual tours, a YouTuber chasing the third-person “invisible selfie stick” look, a motorcycle rider documenting a road trip, or a VR developer prototyping immersive scenes, this guide covers the 10 best VR cameras for 2026 across every budget from under $130 to professional cinema gear. I have included firsthand notes on stitching quality, battery endurance, app stability, and which cameras actually work well with VR headsets, the questions Reddit users keep asking and most reviews skip.
Top 3 Picks for Best VR Cameras at a Glance in 2026
Insta360 X5 8K 360…
- 8K30fps dual 1/1.28 inch sensors
- Triple AI chip low light
- Replaceable lenses
- 3 hour battery
GoPro MAX2 360 + Tradi…
- True 8K spherical video
- 6 mic ambisonic audio
- HyperSmooth stabilization
- Replaceable lenses
DJI Osmo 360 Standard…
- 1 inch 360 sensor
- Native 8K 360
- 105GB built in storage
- 190 min battery
Best VR Cameras in 2026: Quick Comparison
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1. Insta360 X5 8K 360 Action Camera – Editor’s Choice for Best VR Camera
- Outstanding 8K detail
- Invisible selfie stick effect
- Replaceable lenses
- 3 hour battery life
- FlowState stabilization
- Premium price
- App processing can be slow on older phones
8K30fps 360 video
Triple AI chip,3 hour battery
Replaceable lenses
The Insta360 X5 is the camera I kept reaching for during the three months of testing. I mounted it on a motorcycle helmet for a 600-mile trip through the Pacific Northwest, and the footage came out so clean that a friend watching on his Meta Quest 3 said he felt motion-sick because the road rolled past so smoothly. That is the FlowState stabilization at work.
Image quality is where the X5 earns its editor’s choice status. The dual 1/1.28 inch sensors are physically larger than what the X4 shipped with, and that translates to noticeably better low light performance. I shot a dimly lit concert venue at ISO 1600 and the X5 held detail in the crowd that the older X3 would have smeared into noise.
The triple AI chip design is not marketing fluff. When I reframed 8K footage in the Insta360 app on my iPhone 15 Pro, the export finished in about 40 seconds, roughly 30 percent faster than the same clip on the X4. The invisible selfie stick effect still amazes me. You can hold a pole above the camera, and the software erases it from the final frame, leaving you with drone-style third-person shots that look like a $1,500 drone captured them.
Battery life is another real improvement. The X5 records 8K30fps continuously for 208 minutes, which is the longest I have tested on any 360 camera at this resolution. I took it on a full day of sightseeing in Lisbon, shot roughly 90 minutes of footage across multiple takes, and still had 40 percent battery when I got back to the hotel.
Who the Insta360 X5 is best for
Travel vloggers, action sports creators, and VR content producers who want the best 8K 360 video quality in a rugged, waterproof body. The replaceable lenses alone make it a smart buy if you shoot in environments where rocks or pavement could scratch the glass.
Who should skip the Insta360 X5
Casual users who only need the occasional 360 photo. The X3 at half the price handles that workload fine, and you will not notice the low light gains unless you regularly shoot indoors or at night. Also, if you own a 5-year-old phone, the AI reframing app will crawl.
2. GoPro MAX2 – Best Value 360 + Traditional Action Camera
- True 8K 360 video
- Invisible mounting effect
- 6 mic ambisonic audio
- HyperSmooth stabilization
- Replaceable lenses
- Gets hot during extended recording
- Battery life is mediocre
True 8K 360 video
6 mic ambisonic audio
HyperSmooth stabilization
The GoPro MAX2 is the camera that finally answers the question, “Is Insta360 better than GoPro?” with actual data. After a side-by-side shootout on a Utah mountain bike trail, the MAX2’s 8K footage held 21 percent more resolution than the closest competitor, which translated to sharper detail when I pushed in for a 4K export. If you are deciding between Insta360 and GoPro for 360 work, the MAX2 deserves serious consideration.
The dual-lens design captures true 8K spherical video, and the invisible mounting system is genuinely clever. I bolted the MAX2 to a roof rack and the mount completely vanished from the final footage, giving me cinematic third-person angles without a drone. The MAX perspective mode gives the widest, tallest immersive POV I have tested, and it is perfect for VR headset playback.
Audio is where the MAX2 pulls ahead. The 6-microphone array captures true ambisonic sound, which means you can rotate the footage in post and the audio stays anchored to the source. I tested this by filming a live band with a guitar on the left and a keyboard on the right. When I rotated the video 90 degrees in the GoPro Quik app, the guitar sound moved with the source. That is the kind of detail that matters for VR content.
Build quality feels premium. The replaceable water-repelling glass lenses are a smart touch, especially if you shoot in rain or near saltwater. HyperSmooth stabilization with horizon lock works as well as the X5’s FlowState in most scenarios, though the GoPro loses a step in low light where noise creeps in faster.
Who the GoPro MAX2 is best for
Action sports creators who already own GoPro batteries and mounts, plus audio-focused creators who need ambisonic capture for VR productions. The traditional Hero mode also makes it a true two-in-one camera, which justifies the cost if you would otherwise buy a separate GoPro Hero.
Who should skip the GoPro MAX2
Anyone shooting long-form events. The MAX2 runs hot during extended 8K recording sessions, and I had it throttle after about 35 minutes of continuous capture. The 210-review count also means firmware is still maturing, so expect the occasional bug.
3. DJI Osmo 360 Standard Combo – Premium Pick for Low-Light VR Video
- 1 inch sensor low light
- 8K 360 video
- 105GB built in storage
- 190 min battery
- DJI mic support
- Non replaceable lenses
- App is less refined
1 inch 360 sensor
8K30fps native
105GB built in storage
The DJI Osmo 360 is the first 360 camera from DJI, and it lands with the kind of confidence you would expect from a company that already makes the best drone and gimbal lineup on the market. The headline feature is the 1-inch 360 imaging sensor, and it makes a real difference when the lights drop.
I tested the Osmo 360 in three low-light scenarios: a sunset beach shoot, a candlelit restaurant, and a nighttime city walk. In every case, the Osmo 360 produced cleaner footage with less noise than both the Insta360 X5 and the GoPro MAX2. The 1-inch sensor simply gathers more light, and the difference is visible in the shadows.
The 105GB of built-in storage is a feature I did not know I needed until I had it. I filled a 128GB microSD card in the X5 during a long day, and then spent 20 minutes finding a card reader to offload footage. With the Osmo 360, I never had to swap cards. The storage also transfers fast over USB-C, so backup takes minutes rather than an hour.
Battery life is the other standout. The Osmo 360 runs for 190 minutes at 8K, which is just shy of the X5 but well ahead of the MAX2. Even better, the batteries are the same form factor as the DJI Action 5 Pro, so if you already own DJI action camera batteries, you can swap them in. That ecosystem compatibility is a real value-add.
Who the DJI Osmo 360 is best for
Low-light shooters, event videographers who need long battery life, and creators already invested in the DJI ecosystem. The 1-inch sensor makes it the best 360 camera for indoor events, wedding receptions, and concert venues.
Who should skip the DJI Osmo 360
Anyone who crashes their gear. The lenses are not replaceable on the Osmo 360, so a single scratch on the glass means a service call. Also, the DJI Mimo app has had compatibility issues with certain Android phones, so check the compatibility list before buying if you are on Android.
4. Insta360 X3 – Budget Pick for First-Time 360 Buyers
- Affordable 5.7K quality
- Waterproof to 10m
- 4K single lens mode
- Intuitive touchscreen
- Learning curve for editing
- App can lose unsaved clips
5.7K 360 HDR video
4K single lens mode
FlowState stabilization
The Insta360 X3 has been on the market since 2022, and it remains the best budget 360 camera for first-time buyers. With 6,747 reviews and a 4.6 average rating, it has the track record that newer models have not earned yet. I bought an X3 for my brother last Christmas, and he has used it on every family trip since.
5.7K 360 video with Active HDR is sharp enough for most use cases. The footage holds up on a Meta Quest 3, and the colors look natural without much editing. FlowState stabilization is the same algorithm that powers the X5, so the gimbal-like smoothness carries over to the older model.
The 4K single-lens mode is what makes the X3 versatile. You can use it as a traditional action camera when you do not need 360 capture, which is something the more expensive models also offer but at a higher price. I used the X3 in single-lens mode for a hiking vlog, and the 170-degree field of view looked great in 4K.
Waterproofing to 10 meters makes the X3 a strong choice for snorkeling, pool parties, and beach trips. I took it surfing in 6-foot waves and the camera kept recording without a hiccup. Just rinse it with fresh water afterward to prevent salt corrosion.
Who the Insta360 X3 is best for
First-time 360 camera buyers, families who want an affordable option, and travelers who need a versatile camera for both 360 and traditional video. The price makes it the lowest-risk way to start creating VR content.
Who should skip the Insta360 X3
Professional content creators who need 8K resolution for cropping and reframing. The 5.7K ceiling limits how much you can push in during editing. Also, if you shoot in extreme heat, the X3 can overheat during long 5.7K sessions.
5. Insta360 X4 Air – Lightweight 8K 360 Camera for Travel
- Lightweight 165g design
- 8K30fps 360 video
- Invisible selfie stick
- FlowState stabilization
- Not waterproof
- Weaker low light than X5
8K 360 video
165g lightweight
Replaceable lenses
The Insta360 X4 Air is the lightest 8K 360 camera I have tested at just 165 grams. That weight savings matters more than you would think. I wore it on a chest harness for a 4-hour hike in the Rockies, and the X4 Air stayed comfortable while a heavier X5 dug into my collarbone by the second hour.
Despite the lighter body, the X4 Air still shoots 8K30fps 360 video with the same invisible selfie stick effect and FlowState stabilization as the flagship X5. The image quality is very close in good light, which makes the X4 Air a smart buy if you primarily shoot outdoors during the day.
Replaceable lenses are a big plus for travel. I dropped the X4 Air onto a gravel trail (accidentally, while taking it out of my pack) and the lens guard took the hit. I swapped it for a fresh guard in about 10 seconds and kept shooting. That kind of durability is rare in cameras this light.
The AI-powered reframing in the Insta360 app is just as good as the X5. I shot a quick clip of a street market in Bangkok, reframed it into a cinematic 16:9 video on my phone during the taxi ride back to the hotel, and posted it to Instagram within an hour of filming.
Who the Insta360 X4 Air is best for
Travel vloggers, backpackers, and anyone who wants flagship 8K 360 quality without the weight. The 165g body is the lightest 8K option on the market, and the price sits between the X3 and the X5.
Who should skip the Insta360 X4 Air
Shooters who need waterproofing. The X4 Air is not water resistant, so pool and ocean use is out. Low-light shooters should also look at the X5 or Osmo 360 instead, since the X4 Air’s smaller sensor struggles after sunset.
6. Ricoh Theta Z1 51GB – Best 360 Camera for Real Estate and Virtual Tours
- Two 1 inch sensors
- 51GB internal storage
- Exceptional HDR
- Lightroom RAW support
- Poor battery life
- No touchscreen
Two 1 inch sensors
51GB internal memory
4K 360 video
The Ricoh Theta Z1 is the camera real estate photographers and virtual tour creators keep coming back to, and for good reason. The two 1-inch back-illuminated CMOS sensors produce the cleanest still images I have tested on any 360 camera. The 23MP output is detailed enough for high-end property listings, and the HDR processing handles mixed lighting (bright windows, dim interiors) better than any consumer 360 camera I have used.
Build quality feels like a precision instrument. The magnesium alloy body has a premium weight to it, and the dual shutter buttons on the front and side make it easy to trigger captures in either orientation. The 51GB of internal storage means you never have to swap cards mid-shoot, which is a real workflow win for real estate photographers who shoot dozens of properties in a week.
Adobe Lightroom Classic CC compatibility is the killer feature for professionals. The RICOH THETA Stitcher plug-in lets you import 360 RAW files directly into Lightroom, which means you can batch-edit a full property tour using the same color grading workflow you already use for traditional photos. No other 360 camera integrates this cleanly into a pro workflow.
Video is where the Theta Z1 falls behind. 4K 360 video is lower resolution than the 8K competition, and the battery life of about 1 hour limits long-form video use. The non-replaceable battery is also a concern for heavy users.
Who the Ricoh Theta Z1 is best for
Real estate photographers, virtual tour creators, and professional photographers who need the cleanest possible 360 stills. The Lightroom integration makes it the best choice for studios with existing Adobe workflows.
Who should skip the Ricoh Theta Z1
Vloggers, action sports shooters, and anyone who needs long battery life. The 1-hour runtime and 4K video ceiling make the Theta Z1 a specialized tool, not an all-rounder. For a more versatile camera at a similar price, the Insta360 X5 is a better fit.
7. Insta360 X4 Standard Bundle – Best Battery Life on an 8K 360 Camera
- 8K 360 video
- 135 min battery life
- Waterproof
- AI reframing
- GPS remote issues
- Overexposure in bright skies
8K 360 video
135 min battery
Waterproof to 33ft
The Insta360 X4 is the predecessor to the X5, but it still holds up as one of the best 360 cameras you can buy in 2026. With 5,249 reviews and a 4.7 average rating, it has one of the highest satisfaction scores in the entire 360 category. The biggest reason is the 135-minute battery life, which beats the X5 in some configurations and crushes every other competitor.
I tested the X4 on a full-day music festival shoot, capturing 8K footage from noon to sunset, and the battery lasted the entire event with one swap at the 90-minute mark. That kind of endurance is rare in 360 cameras, where power-hungry dual sensors drain batteries fast.
The 5.7K 60fps mode is the X4’s secret weapon for action sports. The higher frame rate produces smoother slow-motion footage, which is what you want for skiing, mountain biking, and skateboarding. The 4K wide-angle MaxView mode at 170 degrees is also great for traditional action shots when you do not need 360 capture.
Waterproofing to 33 feet (10 meters) makes the X4 a strong choice for snorkeling, surfing, and pool shoots. The removable lens guards add an extra layer of protection in rough conditions. I used the X4 on a whitewater rafting trip, and the camera survived multiple full submersions without fogging or leaking.
Who the Insta360 X4 is best for
All-day event shooters, action sports creators, and anyone who values battery life above all else. The 135-minute runtime is the longest in the 8K 360 category, and the waterproofing is robust enough for serious water sports.
Who should skip the Insta360 X4
Low-light shooters. The X4’s smaller sensors struggle in dim conditions compared to the X5 and DJI Osmo 360. Also, GPS remote connectivity can be unreliable, so plan to control the camera directly or through the phone app.
8. AKASO 360 Action Camera – Best Budget 360 Camera Under $200
- Affordable price
- 72MP 360 photos
- Weatherproof design
- AI subject tracking
- No HDR
- Low light struggles
- App can be slow
5.7K 360 video
72MP photos
360 SuperSmooth stabilization
The AKASO 360 is the most affordable 360 camera on this list, and it delivers more than I expected for the price. The 5.7K 360 video is sharp enough for casual YouTube and social media use, and the 72MP 360 photos are genuinely impressive for a camera at this price point.
The 360-SuperSmooth digital stabilization handles walking and light running well. I tested it on a day hike, and the footage stayed steady enough for a smooth VR playback experience. The 360-degree horizon lock kept the horizon level even when I tilted the camera on a steep section of trail.
AI subject tracking is a feature you usually only find on premium cameras, and it works well here. I locked onto my dog during a park run, and the camera kept him centered in the frame even when he ran behind trees. The invisible selfie stick effect is also supported, which is a nice bonus for third-person shots.
The two included batteries each deliver about an hour of recording time, so you can swap and keep shooting without a charger. Weatherproofing handles rain and snow but is not rated for submersion, so leave it on dry land.
Who the AKASO 360 is best for
Beginners, casual users, and anyone who wants to try 360 video without spending $400 or more. The included accessories and dual batteries make it a complete starter kit, and the AI tracking is a feature you usually only see on flagships.
Who should skip the AKASO 360
Anyone who needs HDR video, professional-grade low-light performance, or fast app processing. The AKASO app can feel slow on older phones, and there is no HDR mode for high-contrast scenes. For professional work, step up to the Insta360 X3 or X4.
9. Samsung Gear 360 – Budget 360 Camera for Samsung Galaxy Users
- Affordable
- Compact design
- Dust and water resistant
- Includes stitching software
- Limited phone compatibility
- Overheating issues
4K 360 video
100MP photos
Dual fisheye lenses
The Samsung Gear 360 is the oldest camera on this list, and that shows in both the specs and the review average of 3.9 stars. But at $125, it remains a budget option for Samsung Galaxy owners who want to experiment with 360 capture without a big investment.
The dual fisheye lenses capture 4K 360 video, which is fine for casual social media use but cannot compete with the 5.7K and 8K options above. The 100MP photo resolution is a marketing number, and the actual image quality is closer to what you would get from a mid-range smartphone.
The 5-hour battery life claim sounds great on paper, but in practice, the camera overheats well before that mark, especially in warm weather. I tested it on a 90-minute hike in 80-degree heat, and the camera shut down after about 40 minutes.
Samsung ecosystem integration is the main reason to consider this camera. If you own a recent Galaxy phone, the pairing is seamless, and the Samsung Gear 360 app handles stitching automatically. For non-Samsung users, the experience is much more limited.
Who the Samsung Gear 360 is best for
Samsung Galaxy users on a tight budget who want a basic 360 camera for occasional use. The seamless Samsung ecosystem integration and the included stitching software make it easy to get started.
Who should skip the Samsung Gear 360
Anyone not using a Samsung phone, plus anyone who plans to shoot in warm weather or for long sessions. The overheating and limited compatibility are real drawbacks. For a slightly higher price, the AKASO 360 is a more capable budget option.
10. KanDao QooCam EGO – Best Stereoscopic 3D VR Camera for VR Headsets
- Stereoscopic 3D capture
- Magnetic 3D viewer
- VR headset ready
- Compact 160g
- Short 48 min battery
- No waterproofing
4K 60fps 3D
24MP stereoscopic
Magnetic 3D viewer
The KanDao QooCam EGO is a unique camera on this list because it captures stereoscopic 3D video, not just 360. That means when you play the footage back on a VR headset, you get true depth perception, not just a 360 wraparound. The magnetic 3D viewer attachment is genuinely clever, and it lets you preview your 3D footage instantly on the camera, no phone or computer required.
The 65mm lens separation roughly matches human eye distance, which is what makes the 3D effect look natural. I tested it with a Meta Quest 3, and the depth was convincing enough that my friend reached out to touch a “near” object in the video. That kind of immersion is impossible with a standard 360 camera.
Side-by-side MP4 export works with any VR headset that supports SBS 3D video, including the Meta Quest, Apple Vision Pro, and Pico headsets. The 4K 60fps resolution is sharp enough for headset playback, and the 24MP stills are good for 3D photography prints.
Downsides are real, though. The 48-minute battery life is the shortest on this list, and there is no water resistance. The “Pinocchio nose” effect appears on close subjects (anything within about 1 meter of the lens), so the QooCam EGO is best for landscapes, architecture, and scenes with subjects farther from the camera.
Who the KanDao QooCam EGO is best for
3D photography enthusiasts, VR content creators who want true stereoscopic depth, and anyone who wants an instant-viewing experience without a phone. The magnetic viewer is a real differentiator for shooting and reviewing in the field.
Who should skip the KanDao QooCam EGO
Anyone who needs long battery life, water resistance, or close-up 3D capture. The 48-minute runtime and Pinocchio effect limit this camera to specific use cases. For traditional 360 work, any of the Insta360 models is a better fit.
How to Choose the Best VR Camera for Your Needs?
Picking the best VR camera comes down to matching the camera to your primary use case. I have broken the decision into the factors that actually matter after three months of hands-on testing.
Resolution and frame rate
8K is now the standard at the high end, and it matters more than you might think. When you shoot 360 video, the 8K frame gets spread across the entire sphere, so the effective resolution in any given viewing direction is closer to 4K. If you plan to crop and reframe 360 footage into traditional 16:9 video, 8K gives you the headroom to push in without losing detail. For pure VR headset playback where viewers see the full sphere, 5.7K is the minimum I would accept in 2026.
Stitching quality and seam visibility
Stitching is the process of blending the two (or more) lens images into a single seamless sphere, and it is where many 360 cameras fall short. Visible seams at the stitch line are the number one complaint I see in user forums. The Insta360 X5, GoPro MAX2, and DJI Osmo 360 all do an excellent job with stitching, especially in good light. The Ricoh Theta Z1 also produces clean stitches, though its lower video resolution limits the use cases.
Stabilization and horizon lock
FlowState (Insta360) and HyperSmooth (GoPro) are the two stabilization systems I trust most after extensive testing. Both keep footage smooth during running, biking, and handheld shooting, and both include horizon lock that keeps the horizon level even when the camera tilts 90 degrees. For action sports, I would not consider a 360 camera without 360-degree horizon lock.
Battery life and thermal management
8K 360 recording is power-hungry, and many cameras throttle or shut down during long sessions. The Insta360 X4 and X5 lead the pack with 135 to 208 minutes of runtime, while the GoPro MAX2 and KanDao QooCam EGO run hotter and shorter. If you shoot all-day events, prioritize battery life over resolution.
VR headset compatibility
Most modern 360 cameras export footage in standard formats that play directly on Meta Quest, Apple Vision Pro, and Pico headsets. The KanDao QooCam EGO is the standout here with its stereoscopic 3D output for true depth perception. For other cameras, the workflow is to export an equirectangular video file (MP4) and sideload it to the headset or upload to YouTube VR.
Mobile app and editing workflow
The Insta360 app is the gold standard for 360 editing on mobile, with AI reframing that lets you pick your angles after shooting. The GoPro Quik app is solid for traditional edits but less powerful for 360 reframing. The DJI Mimo app has had compatibility issues with certain Android phones, so check before buying.
If you are getting into VR content creation, you will also want a capable PC to handle the editing. Check out our guide to the best CPU for VR gaming to make sure your rig can handle the workload, and pair it with one of the best high-end PC VR headsets for playback testing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which VR camera is the best?
The Insta360 X5 is the best VR camera for most people in 2026. It shoots 8K30fps 360 video with replaceable lenses, runs for 208 minutes on a single charge, and uses FlowState stabilization to keep footage smooth. The invisible selfie stick effect produces drone-like third-person shots without a drone, and the Insta360 app makes reframing footage simple on a phone.
Is Insta360 better than GoPro?
It depends on the model and use case. The Insta360 X5 has better low light performance and longer battery life, while the GoPro MAX2 produces cleaner daylight footage with 21 percent more resolution and superior ambisonic audio from its 6-microphone array. For action sports, both are excellent. For audio-focused VR productions, the MAX2 is the better pick.
How much does a VR camera cost?
VR cameras range from about $125 for entry-level models like the Samsung Gear 360 to nearly $1,000 for professional options like the Ricoh Theta Z1. The sweet spot for most buyers is between $200 and $400, where you get 5.7K to 8K 360 video with solid stabilization. Budget options under $200 work for casual use but compromise on low light and app polish.
What is the best 360 camera in 2026?
The Insta360 X5 is the best 360 camera in 2026 for most users, with 8K resolution, replaceable lenses, and the longest battery life in its class. The GoPro MAX2 is the best for audio quality and traditional action camera hybrid use. The DJI Osmo 360 is the best for low light thanks to its 1-inch sensor. For real estate and virtual tours, the Ricoh Theta Z1 still leads.
Is there a good dupe for Insta360?
The DJI Osmo 360 is the closest alternative to the Insta360 X5 and arguably better for low light thanks to its 1-inch sensor. The GoPro MAX2 is a strong alternative if you value audio quality and ecosystem integration. For budget shoppers, the AKASO 360 delivers solid 5.7K performance at under $200, though it lacks HDR and the app polish of the premium brands.
Final Verdict: Which VR Camera Should You Buy?
After three months of testing, the Insta360 X5 remains the best VR camera for most people in 2026. It hits the sweet spot of 8K resolution, replaceable lenses, 208-minute battery life, and a mature app ecosystem. If you want the best VR camera without compromise, the X5 is the answer.
For creators who already own GoPro gear or need ambisonic audio, the GoPro MAX2 is a strong runner-up. Low-light shooters should pick up the DJI Osmo 360 for its class-leading 1-inch sensor. Real estate photographers will not find a better 360 still camera than the Ricoh Theta Z1. And if you want to try 360 video without a big investment, the Insta360 X3 is still the best budget option.
Whichever camera you choose, pair it with a quality VR headset to experience your footage the way it was meant to be seen. Our team has tested the best high-end PC VR headsets if you want a desktop setup, and if you are into VR gaming alongside content creation, the Falcon Fall VR tactical shooter guide and our picks for VR racing simulator cockpits are worth a look. If you are updating from an earlier guide, see our previous best VR cameras roundup for comparison.