Unlike DSLRs or mirrorless cameras that allow you to switch lenses, customisable components are almost non-existent to the likes of action cameras, until now. During CES 2020, Insta360 has introduced a new approach to the category with the modular ONE R action camera.
Co-engineered with Leica, the Insta360 ONE R features a “unique interchangeable lens design” that allows for swapping between different camera modules for various photography and video recording situations. The modular action camera is made up of three main components: a 1190mAh Battery Base, a Core unit, and a selection of quick-swapping lenses. The main components are waterproof with an IPX8 rating.
The components are connected to the ONE R’s Core unit – where the LCD touchscreen and processor are located – via the Battery Base, and can be swapped out at will. Insta360 claims that the camera can transform from a dual-lens 360 shooter to a standard action cam – among other potential configurations – in an instant.
At launch, along with the main package of the Insta360 ONE R action camera are three main mods: Dual-Lens 360-degree mod, the 4K Wide Angle Mod, and the 5.3K 1-inch Leica Wide Angle Mod. That said, the company is offering the action camera in a variety of prepackaged sets including the ONE R Twin Edition which includes the 4K and 360-degree mod, the ONE R 1-inch Edition, and the ONE R 4K Edition that only comes with the 4K Wide Angle module.
There’s also the Insta360 ONE R Aerial Edition that includes the Aerial Mod, which allows you to strap the camera and its mounting system onto either a DJI Mavic Pro or Mavic 2 drone. The included Dual-Lens 360-degree mod can be separated and mounted on the top and bottom of the system, which allows capture of 360 views that hides the drone entirely from sight.
According to Insta360’s website, the One R Twin Edition is priced at US$530 (~RM2160), 1-inch Edition at US$630(~RM2570), 360 Edition at US$470 (~RM1920), 4K Edition at US$340 (~RM1386), and Aerial Edition at US$630 (~RM2570). If you wish, you could even customise your own ONE R bundle on their website.
Insta360 also announced upcoming accessories for the ONE R camera, including a diving case, a USB-C mic jack, and a Boosted Battery Base. However, the company has not disclosed the prices for these additional mods. The modular action camera’s availability in Malaysia is also unconfirmed for now.
(Source: Insta360.)
