The demand for 360 cameras for real estate has skyrocketed. Which 360 cameras are worth it? I’ve rounded up a few dependable 360 real estate camera rigs based on affordability, availability, and ease of use.
Remarkable 360 camera for real estate
Here are a few top choices that real estate experts recommend:
1. Theta Z1 360 Degree Spherical Camera
With 2 back-illuminated large sensors and grand resolution capabilities, the Theta Z1 360 camera shoots extremely detailed images even in dark places. Its powerful ISO makes realtors' work easier, capturing shots well without the need for a reshoot. This compact camera captures 360 photos to help real estate owners create immersive property tours. The footage produced can be viewed on desktops and smartphones and is shared through a dedicated Ricoh Theta app. The Theta Z1 360 Degree Spherical Camera features HDR rendering, allowing it to shoot photos in different contrasts and merge them into outstanding images. Shots don’t suffer from issues like fringing, flare, and ghosting.
Features:
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Back-illuminated CMOS sensor
- 23MP resolution
- Snapdragon and an Android-based OS
- Several shooting modes
Pros:
- Amazing ISO for sensitive shots
- Superior image stabilization
- Supports raw file
- Compact and lightweight to carry around
- Superior noise reduction
- Multiple shooting modes
Cons:
- Doesn’t accept memory cards
- Non-replaceable battery
2. Insta360 Pro 2 3D Camera
The Insta360 Pro 2 3D Camera offers better resolution, a small form factor, and top-notch image quality. With its 6 fisheye lenses, you can capture every angle and detail. It has six SD card slots for storing a large amount of data, and it offers a variety of resolutions and frame rates to choose from. The Insta360 Pro 2 sports advanced HDR, ensuring shots come out with natural lighting even in varying conditions. It also has a long-range monitoring feature that allows you to operate it from a distance. In terms of features and price, there is no camera that rivals the Insta360 Pro 2 in this review, making it a must-have for professional real estate VR filmmakers.
Features:
- 6 fisheye lenses
- FarSight image transmission
- HDR photo and video
- Built-in GPS, LAN, and USB connections
- Capable of live streaming
- FlowState stabilization
Pros:
- Groundbreaking stabilization
- Unbelievably stunning 8K quality
- Long-range monitoring
- Four microphones deliver high-quality audio
- Ample room for storing data
Cons:
- Expensive
3. GoPro Max 360 Camera
For real estate vloggers, the GoPro Max 360 Camera is a must-have. It captures top-quality 1080p videos, allowing clients to see every detail of the property. With six mics, it delivers excellent sound quality. The camera has four digital lenses that allow you to control the footage outcome. The PowerPano feature eliminates the need for panning when shooting panoramas. The GoPro Max 360 is compact, waterproof, and durable, making it useful for both beginner vloggers and professionals. However, it does have a few drawbacks, such as inferior frame rates in some lenses and lack of support for RAW files for stills.
Features:
- 16.6MP resolution
- Live streaming stabilization
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
- Four digital lenses
- Smartphone app for editing
Pros:
- One of the best stereo sounds
- Incredible motion picture stabilization
- Waterproof design
- Several lenses for different outcomes or occasions
- Affordably priced
Cons:
- Doesn’t support RAW format for stills
- Frame rate becomes bad in some lenses
4. Trisio Lite 2 VR Camera
Designed specifically for real estate, the Trisio Lite 2 VR Camera is a budget-friendly option. It comes with a powerful CNC motor and aspherical optical lens, producing amazing 8K images. Its updated imaging technology takes care of darkness compensation and brightness suppression issues. The camera also allows you to capture high-quality panoramic shots. The Trisio Lite 2 VR Camera is lightweight, easy to use, and comes with 8GB of internal memory for storing copies. It also includes a remote control for easy operation.
Features:
- Bluetooth and Wi-Fi wireless communication
- 200 minutes battery life
- 8GB internal memory
- Distortion-free aspherical lens
- 32MP sensor
- Noderotate technology
Pros:
- Extremely easy to use
- One of the most affordable 360 cameras for real estate
- Produces crystal clear 8K shots
- Can be remote controlled
- Lightweight and compact for all-day carry
Cons:
- Lacks video capability
5. Aleta S2C 360 Camera Camcorder
The Aleta S2C 360 Camera Camcorder is one of the cameras that excels in photo and video resolution. It shoots 12K pictures (66MP), making it ideal for high-end real estate agents. The camera undergoes frequent updates, including intelligent HDR, better auto balance, HDR deghosting, and automatic object removal. It supports live streaming, with videos in MP4 format and images in .jpg format. The camera offers two power options, AC/DC, for uninterrupted work.
Features:
- Shoots up to 12K quality
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- 7-shot exposure bracket
- 66MP sensor
- 4 shooting modes
- 2 power modes
- Android/iPhone compatible AletaS2C viewer app
Pros:
- Supports optical stitching
- Multiple shooting modes
- Great in low-light conditions
- Captures clear footage with minimal post-production
- Fairly priced considering the 12K quality
Cons:
- Might be a little noisy in video mode
6. Samsung Gear 360
One of Samsung's reliable choices for real estate tours is the Samsung Gear 360. It offers good resolution footage and longer battery life compared to other cameras. The battery can last up to a week with intermittent use. The Samsung Gear 360 captures all angles in brilliant 4K quality, fitting in your pocket for easy portability. It is easy to get started with this camera, and it works best with high-end Samsung phones, top-quality Android devices, and compatible iOS gadgets. However, it may not pair with many iOS devices, and its base can be unstable on flat surfaces.
Features:
- Dual CMOS sensor
- 8.4MP fisheye lens
- Up to 4K resolution
- IP53 water-resistance rating
Pros:
- Exceptional battery life
- Simple to work with
- Compact design for all-day carry
- Smooth live streaming function
- Affordable price
- Good clarity footage
Cons:
- Highly unstable design
- Incompatibility issues with iPhones
7. Kandao QooCam 8K
For a smarter and more connected 360 camera, the Kandao QooCam 8K is the way to go. It supports live event streaming, logging, and online conferences, thanks to its 5G connection. The camera shoots up to 8K video and stills, with anti-shake technology ensuring clear and sharp images. It has a manual shooting mode that allows for photographs that don’t need post-editing. When linked to the app, more features like celebration events, travel, and sports become available.
Features:
- BSI-CMOS 20MP sensor
- Colorful touchscreen
- Waterproof
- Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and HDMI connectivity
- 5G support
- Built-in mic
Pros:
- Designed for harsh working environments
- Multiple live streaming choices
- Multiple connection options
- Supreme quality videos and images
- Satisfactory sound quality
Cons:
- Steep price tag
8. Ricoh Theta X 360 Degree Camera
The Ricoh Theta X 360 Degree Camera offers excellent 5.7K movie footage and stunning stills at a more affordable price compared to the Theta Z1. With a fairly large touch screen display, you don't need a smartphone to get it running. Its mobile connectivity has been updated to allow data transfer through Bluetooth. The Ricoh Theta X 360 Degree Camera is robustly constructed to dissipate heat and allows for battery and storage card removal while shooting.
Features:
- 60MP sensor
- 46GB internal storage
- 5.7K max resolution
- 4K live streaming
- Touch screen display
- Rechargeable battery
- Type C USB port
Pros:
- No need to connect to a smartphone
- Large internal storage capacity
- Enhanced image stabilization
- Robust construction for heat dissipation
- Can live stream in 4K quality
Cons:
- Audio quality could be better
- Stitching needs improvement
9. Insta360 One X2
The Insta360 One X2 creates outstanding footage for 3D real estate walkthroughs. It easily hooks to Android or iPhone, allowing you to connect with your audience on social media. Both audio and video are of supreme quality, with the camera shooting up to 5.7K resolution. The AI editing feature refines your clips according to the app or your own preset templates. The Insta360 One X2 has one of the best stabilization technologies, eliminating the need for a gimbal during fast-paced shooting. It is also waterproof and compact for easy use on the go. However, the battery lasts only an hour, and the camera needs to connect to a phone for it to work.
Features:
- Interchangeable lens
- FlowState image stabilization
- AI editing
- Invisible selfie-stick
- Shoots up to 5.7K
Pros:
- Works great even in low light
- Outstanding resolution capabilities
- Reliable video and audio quality
- Waterproof design
- Compact for easy portability
Cons:
- Short battery life
- Requires connection to a phone for the camera to work
Factors to consider when choosing 360 Cameras for Real Estate
360 real estate cameras are still in their infancy stage. To avoid getting a bad gadget, consider the following factors:
Resolution
Real estate images need to be ultra-clear and deeply detailed to convince clients to purchase a property. The resolution should allow buyers to zoom in without losing too much quality, while blurry and overexposed images can detract from the elegance of a property.
Battery life
Many 360 cameras have poor battery life, lasting only an hour or two. However, some cameras can hold a charge for a few more hours, allowing for uninterrupted shooting.
Video features
In addition to capturing immersive 3D pictures, realtors may need to shoot videos to share with prospects. It is important to choose a camera that offers adequate video features, such as live streaming.
Processor
If you shoot video and images all day, a powerful processor is essential. Some cameras are known for overheating quickly, so it's important to choose a camera with a good sensor to avoid this issue.
Phone compatibility
Many real estate cameras require smartphone connectivity for storage or editing purposes. Before purchasing a camera, ensure that it is compatible with your phone type.
Connectivity
The ability to share footage online is crucial, so look for cameras with Wi-Fi and live streaming capabilities. USB, GPS, and Bluetooth connectivity are also important for data transfer and device compatibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Final Thoughts
One thing is for sure; you need a fantastic 360 camera for real estate to capture footage that sells. The minimum budget for a truly professional camera is around $1,000. Our list consists of some of the best 360 camera models for real estate that come highly recommended by many realtors. All that remains is for you to make your final choice based on your budget and the features that will suit your project.
