Rating of the best panoramic cameras for 2022

In life, situations may arise when it is necessary to capture the entire space in a photo or video and capture what is happening in 360 degrees. In this case, the panoramic camera will come in handy - it is also a fisheye. Previously, this opportunity was available only to professionals, but today everyone can create content, because there are inexpensive models of such devices on the market, but how to choose the right one?

We answer this question within the framework of this article and present to your attention the ranking of the best panoramic cameras of 2022 - both amateur and professional. We will consider their advantages and disadvantages, technical characteristics, cost, functionality of various models, and on the basis of this we will find out which camera is better to buy for certain purposes.

Panoramic cameras, to a greater or lesser extent, have one feature - the parallax effect.It occurs due to the fact that the optical axis of the viewfinder does not coincide with the axis of the camera lens, as a result of which objects, mainly in the foreground, are distorted (parts of the image fit poorly and crookedly together).

Pricing policy of panoramic cameras

To understand the price range of panoramic cameras, let's turn to the Yandex.Market service, which contains current offers from both conventional trading platforms and online stores in your region.

As it turned out, the minimum price at which you can purchase a panoramic camera is 3,000 rubles. This is an action camera from the Chinese brand SJCAM (model SJ360), which, frankly, is not of very good quality and has negative reviews among users. That is why we will focus on more expensive, but high-quality models that can implement custom concepts in the field of photo and video shooting.

One of the most expensive options (360,000 rubles) is the massive Panasonic AG-DVX200 camcorder, which is used by professional operators.Of course, panoramic shooting is one of its many possibilities, so it is unlikely that anyone would have the idea to purchase such an expensive device for the sake of one function.

What's more, people generally want a compact camera that fits easily in their hand or attaches to a helmet, bike, etc. In the middle price segment there is a fairly large number of models. As a rule, these are action cameras costing from 10 to 45 thousand rubles.

The best panoramic security cameras

360-degree video cameras are made in the form of a dome and are designed for comprehensive surveillance, as well as minimizing blind spots. Such devices guarantee a viewing angle within 180-360 degrees, and if they are installed correctly at strategic points, they can be an excellent alternative to a couple of PTZ cameras and provide accurate observation of an object. Consider the top five best camcorders in this segment.

Xiaomi Mi Home Security Camera 360° 720p (MJSXJ01CM)

The model writes video in excellent quality, and due to the 2-megapixel matrix and resolution, which is 1080p, as well as extensive dynamic coverage, even the background remains clear and detailed. 2 motors enable the device to rotate and guarantee 360 ​​degree horizontal visibility and 96 degree vertical visibility⁰.

The shock-resistant body and silent motors allow the model to rotate smoothly and quietly. The f/2.1 aperture captures a fair amount of light while recording, and an IR illuminator enhances visibility at night. The H.265 codec preserves the pixel count and frequency, using only half the space when compared to the H.264 codec.

The average price is 3,300 rubles.

• ease of setting;
• high quality picture;
• stylish design;
• excellent build reliability;
• Works flawlessly on both iOS and Android.

• Dust and dirt accumulate inside the lens.

XPXEA-650SS

This integrated video surveillance system, designed for installation in country houses and offices, makes it possible to monitor the object via Wi-Fi. This model writes video non-stop. It is equipped with a motion sensor, panorama lens, high-resolution rollers, night vision option, and two-way connection.

This model is easy to install and configure. Integrated IR night vision gives you the ability to observe an object from a distance of up to 32 meters with a 360 viewing angle⁰ without blind spots, which guarantees the ultimate degree of control.

The average price is 2,300 rubles.

• viewing what is happening from a smartphone or tablet PC;
• 360-degree video with a fisheye lens without blind spots;
• two-way audio communication for communications;
• integrated IR night vision;
• the camera is equipped with a speaker and a microphone;
• motion sensor with alarm;
• will be an ideal option for installation in country houses and offices;
• connection via Wi-Fi;
• supports iOS, Android and Windows operating systems;
• ease of installation and configuration.

• unknown brand, which causes mistrust on the part of users.

CLEVERDOG WiFi camera

This is the latest generation camera that allows you to carefully monitor a room up to 100 square meters. m., equipped with the intelligent functionality of the Cleverdog line of devices.This model has 2 options:

1. On the ceiling.
2. On the wall.

The gadget is available exclusively in black.

If there is no connection on the user's smartphone, then when connecting the device, deactivate the "Mobile data" option, which is located in the "Mobile networks" item of the user's smartphone. After the done manipulations, you should re-find the camera and synchronize it with the phone. If everything started to function normally, then you can reactivate the "Mobile data" option.

The average price is 5,000 rubles.

• video in real time;
• excellent viewing angle;
• two-way connection;
• there is a motion sensor;
• night mode;
• wireless connection via Wi-Fi;
• compatible with Android and iOS devices, as well as PCs.

• There are connection difficulties.

HIKVISION DS-2PT3326IZ-DE3

This model will be an excellent solution for panoramic monitoring of the object. The device operates on the principle: "1 camera - 1 system". The gadget combines recording from 4 arrays into 1 stream, thereby providing a high-definition panoramic image and facilitating the infrastructure of the video surveillance system, as well as relieving the need to purchase and install several cameras with the accompanying costs for wires, installation, relay devices and ETC maintenance.

This camera will be an excellent option for functioning in difficult conditions of the mall, divided into a large number of rooms by high glass shelves, as well as for other objects that need full-fledged video monitoring without blind spots.

This device has three 1.28-inch CMOS type sensors, the maximum resolution of which is 1920x1080 px when recording at 25 frames per second. The model is equipped with 3 fixed 2mm f2.0 lenses. The horizontal viewing angle is 128.5 degrees, and the vertical - 75.7 respectively. Together, 3 lenses guarantee a full panorama shooting.

The average price is 33,700 rubles.

• increasing the dynamic spectrum to minimize errors;
• noise suppression;
• backlight compensation;
• backlight compensation, for example, from car headlights;
• increasing the contrast of the frame removes defects from the picture, provoked by fog or smoke;
• bitrate optimization by improving the quality of the selected scene and reducing the resolution in small sections of the fragment.

• overpriced, according to buyers, the cost.

RedLine RL-IP75P-SW

This ultra-compact all-weather outdoor camera has been designed to function seamlessly and handle security, security and surveillance applications. The device is characterized by ease of connection and configuration, which does not require special skills on the part of the user.

The model is designed for installation outdoors and indoors, where the requirements for picture quality are high regardless of the time of day, the quality of light and weather, and where you need to view the entire territory without blind spots.In addition, this camera will be an excellent solution where you need to record a picture and sound on an auxiliary drive, as well as where you need to notify about the appearance of objects and a change in the situation.

The video surveillance and security systems that are built on these IP cameras in combination with POE switches, branded NVR network recorders and professional software from the Russian manufacturer Revisor VMS are able to handle video surveillance tasks, as well as security automation in areas of special responsibility.

The average price is 15,300 rubles.

• excellent picture quality;
• twelve modes of restoration of image geometry;
• digital PTZ;
• comes with Revisor VMS software license;
• integrated IVA video analysis.

• overpriced, according to users, the cost.

The best panoramic action cameras

In this section, we will look at the most popular action camera models. If you plan to purchase such a device, then you should know that as of 2022, these options are top-end and it is quite difficult to find something better in the same price category.

Insta360 Nano

This is a reliable and budget option with a 210-degree field of view and shooting in Full HD 1080p. The Insta360 Nano is not a traditional camera. The fact is that it is a module for a smartphone and an excellent solution for those who cannot afford professional or semi-professional devices. This model is designed for Apple iPhone starting from version 6. There is also an analogue for Android - Insta360 Air. Outwardly, it is significantly different, but conceptually it is one and the same device.

The Nano module has a stylish design. One click is enough to connect to the phone. Insta360 enhances the functionality of a mobile device and provides the user with cool content that can be found among the videos of professional bloggers.

All files can be set to auto-sync so that they can be viewed, edited and posted on social networks immediately after shooting. You can also shoot on the camera thanks to the ability to install a memory card. Management is elementary: one press allows you to take a photo, two - start video recording. The camera is perfect for bloggers due to the fact that it allows you to stream via Facebook and YouTube. Device complete set:

• battery;
• Charger;
• protective case;
• documentation.

The average price is 17,000 rubles.

• pleasant cost - specialized cameras are much more expensive;
• good shooting quality;
• you can shoot on an iPhone and the built-in memory of the module;
• stylish and ergonomic design;
• simple and intuitive control;
• works an hour after charging;
• the presence of an official certificate for compliance with the iPhone.

• no dust and moisture protection.

Kodak SP360

This camera has good technical characteristics, shoots panoramas in Full HD 1080p and can replace 3 or even 4 GoPros. At the same time, the device is very compact and weighs only 130 g. This camera has 2 lenses of 235 degrees - an excellent indicator for a device at this price.

Outwardly, the model resembles a GoPro, but due to the large spherical lens, it immediately becomes clear that it shoots 360 degrees. There are few control buttons, but they are conveniently located, so even a child will figure out how the camera works.That is why it is suitable, to a greater extent, for beginners. A professional will want better shooting quality and more features that this device, alas, cannot provide.

Comes with:

• documentation;
• USB cable;
• battery station;
• comfortable and beautiful textile case;
• lens protection;
• adapter for charging;
• various mounts;
• flat lens for underwater shooting.

The average price is 18,600 rubles.

• well-known manufacturer
• affordable cost;
• Wi-Fi connection support;
• there is an LCD display;
• waterproof case;
• no blind spots;
• high capacity battery;
• excellent picture quality - bright, juicy and contrasting images;
• there is NFC, which is a rarity for a budget action camera;
• qualitatively and reliably assembled case;
• high frame rate when shooting video;
• you can shoot at different temperatures and in difficult weather conditions;
• original appearance;
• connects freely and quickly with a smartphone on OS Android;
• the presence of a monitor;
• no need to buy additional accessories (many are included);
• support for interchangeable optics.

• the case is made of inexpensive plastic;
• the lens is easily scratched;
• when uploading a video to YouTube, the quality is lost;
• The picture deteriorates drastically in low light.

MiJia 360 Panoramic Camera

This is a very popular model from Xiaomi. A distinctive feature of this device is that it is equipped with two lenses produced by Sony. Other features are also impressive. For example, a powerful 1600 mAh battery, a pleasant soft-touch coating, high-resolution videos and the ability to install a memory card up to 128 GB.

Package Included:

• documentation (warranty card and instruction in Chinese);
• folding tripod with anti-slip feet, which can also be used as a monopod;
• standard USB cable;
• high-quality waterproof case made of special material.

The average price is 18,800 rubles.

• tactilely pleasant to the touch;
• good build quality;
• very reliable due to metal stiffeners;
• multi-layer optics with durable glass;
• stylish appearance;
• there is a slow motion mode;
• continuous shooting up to 1.5 hours;
• the body is protected from water and dust;
• you can shoot even at temperatures down to -10 degrees Celsius;
• photos are bright and juicy;
• There is a handy smartphone app.

• slightly unfinished firmware;
• the software is not installed on all devices running on the Android OS;
• rich equipment;
• minimum price with maximum opportunities;
• the battery heats up quite significantly during operation;
• a little short of shooting in 4K.

GoPro Fusion (CHDHZ-103)

You can talk about this camera for a long time. First of all, it is an order of magnitude more expensive than all the previously reviewed models and shoots video in very high resolution. If you are an avid amateur photographer, then she will provide beautiful, contrasting and unusual pictures. There is a mode for night shooting, as well as slow motion, recording in H.264 and image stabilization. If you want a photo with a blurry background, then you should consider buying a SLR camera.

Unfortunately, the high price is by no means a guarantee of the absence of shortcomings. Thus, the weight of the model is disproportionate to the weight of the panoramic action camera and is almost 230 g. Included:

• documentation;
• USB cable;
• fastenings;
• protective case for storage.

The average price is 45,000 rubles.

• high shooting speed;
• good degree of water resistance;
• there are no distortions in the image and the effect of the gluing curve;
• you can dive with a camera to a depth of 5 meters;
• great for capturing quality videos.

• very high price;
• non-removable lenses are prone to scratches;
• image quality on closer inspection is not as good as claimed by the manufacturer;
• battery lasts only an hour;
• minimum delivery set;
• does not shoot in RAW format;
• not the easiest device to use.

Ricoh Theta S

This camera has two fast wide-angle lenses with a 200-degree field of view, images from which are converted to a panorama when viewed. The device allows you to make a spherical photo or video panorama by pressing a single button. The camera produces photos at a resolution of 5376 * 2688 pixels, video - up to 1920 * 1080 pixels and supports Full HD 1080p.

This action camera is very tiny and weighs only 125 grams (smaller than a standard smartphone), making it very convenient to use in extreme conditions. If you connect the device to the Internet via Wi-Fi or a USB cable, you can stream - live broadcasts.

You can also connect the camera to your phone and then process the resulting recordings directly on it. The amount of memory is 8 GB. This is not much, but enough for recording in Full HD. Comes with:

• wire-USB;
• case;
• documentation (warranty card and instructions).

The average price is 25,500 rubles.

• stable work;
• quick start;
• affordable price;
• nice design;
• compact size;
• suitable for beginners;
• regular firmware updates that fix minor bugs;
• fast data transfer via USB;
• uploading the video directly to YouTube (greatly spoils the quality);
• built-in memory is enough for 1.5 hours of video shooting;
• you can immediately view the video on your smartphone, which is very convenient;
• economical battery consumption;
• With the right settings, even in poor lighting conditions, it shoots well.

• there is no screen, so the picture can only be seen from a smartphone;
• the inability to increase the amount of memory (there is no slot for the drive);
• average output image quality;
• image distortion;
• slow data transfer over Wi-Fi (sending 8 GB will take at least 4 hours);
• there are difficulties when choosing a tripod, since a wide washer prevents the connection of a charger, the slot of which is located too close;
• if you shoot objects in motion, they are very blurred;
• the connection to the network has a very small radius, and if you just change the position a little, the signal is lost.

The best panoramic camcorders

In this category, we consider the best camcorders that provide the owner with a full-fledged panoramic shooting.

Insta360 Pro 2

This is a professional 360-degree camera, which is an improved variation of the well-known Insta360 Pro model. This device takes 360 pictures⁰ 8 and 12K resolution (in burst mode) and 360 video recording⁰ with a maximum resolution of 8K at 60 FPS.

This gadget records video with a bitrate of up to 120 Mb/s from each lens to a separate flash drive, and also allows you to broadcast the picture online on FB and YouTube.This model can be controlled remotely and gives you the ability to preview in real time at 30 FPS, and is equipped with a 9-axis stabilization system and has an integrated navigation unit.

The average price is 474,000 rubles.

• rich equipment;
• availability (for this segment);
• stable operation with a minimum number of settings;
• high image quality;
• ease of setting.

• not protected from external influences;
• demanding for formatting flash cards.

Insta360 Titan

The design features of the device make it similar to the well-known cameras of the Pro line. This is evidenced by the shape (sphere), which cannot be changed when it comes to panoramic shooting. The underside of the case acts as a support, on which is located a sphere, shortened on the upper and lower sides, with large lenses arranged in a circle.

Under the removable cover-handle, there are threaded connectors for connecting Wi-Fi and GPS antennas, as well as a USB slot and an ordinary 3.5 mm audio in for connecting an external microphone. Access to the mentioned ports and connectors is free in any position of the cover.

A replaceable battery with a capacity of 9,400 mAh gives the model the ability to operate offline for about 1.5 hours. This indicator was calculated on a new battery when recording at the maximum resolution, but experienced users know that the actual recording time largely depends on the selected mode, the frequency of turning the device off / on, and the ambient temperature.

The average price is 1,349,000 rubles.

• panoramic photo and video shooting in 11K resolution;
• impressive 3D shots and 10K clips;
• 10-bit color and i-Log shooting modes;
• 9-axis stabilization system;
• extended range of connection between the device and the operator;
• recording at 120 FPS;
• long autonomy;
• integrated navigation unit (required for cartographic research);
• professional and high quality software.

• high, according to users, the price.

Detu F4

This manufacturer from China successfully integrates modern technologies into its panoramic products. He equipped the body of the gadget with four lenses (1 per side), which made it possible to get a picture in the 360x360 degree format without blind spots.

This model records videos in 4K format (3840x1920 px) at 60 FPS, and is also capable of recording in 6K resolution (6500x3250 px). The maximum number of FPS in this mode reaches 24, which is a pretty good indicator for this mode.

To process and store files of this size, of course, you need a fairly large amount of memory, but Detu took this into account, equipping the gadget with 4 slots for micro SD flash drives (each port can put a flash drive up to 128 GB).

The average price is 149,900 rubles.

• thoughtful software;
• high performance;
• no blind spots;
• 4K recording;
• 4 slots for flash drives.

• very demanding on the "stuffing" of the PC.

Conclusion

Let's summarize. As you can see, unequivocally answer the question “which company is the best camera for panoramic shooting?” - it will not work, as well as to say which of the companies considered is the best manufacturer.

Each brand has its own undisputed sales leader, which has two important qualities:

1. Takes great quality videos and photos.
2. Sold at an affordable price.

Almost all cameras are quite budgetary, while they are suitable for both advanced users and beginners. For professional shooting, only some of the considered options will be appropriate.

In general, the model range of various manufacturers is quite wide, so if the models presented and your selection criteria do not agree, then explore other options. One way or another, the main thing is to read reviews or look at reviews of people competent in this field.