Garmin VIRB 360 vs Yi 360 VR – Best 5.7K 360 Camera

These are two of the hottest new 360 cameras coming this summer and both shoot an amazing 5.7K full 360 video. As of now the best 360 cameras (under $2000) could only shoot 4K resolution 360 video, which was tolerable, but still appears low quality compared to modern HD footage. Shooting in 5.7K resolution should go a long way to improving the appearance of 360 video and it’s great that we already have two 360 cameras to choose from, but which is the best?

Take a look at the comparison table below where I list the specifications of both cameras, then we will take a look at some example footage and finally determine which is the best 5K 360 camera.

VIRB 360 vs YI 360 VR Cam

FeatureVIRB 360Yi 360 Cam
Number of Lenses 2 x f/2.0 2 x f/2.0
Video Resolution 5.7K @ 30fps unstitched 4K @ 30fps stitched 3K@ 60fps unstitched 5.7K(5760x2880) @30fps (unstitched) 4K(4096x2048) @ 30fps 2.5K(2560x1280)@ 60fps 2.5K(2560x1280)@ 30fps 1.9K(1920x960)@ 60fps
Photo Resolution 15 Megapixels 5760x2880
360 Live-Stream 4K @ 30fps (Apple Only) 2.5k @ 30fps
Stabilization 3 modes: stabilize, lock, follow (up to 4K) None
Waterproof Yes, up to 10m No
Shockproof Yes No
Memory MicroSD up to 128GB
Battery 1 hour continuous video on full charge 1400/1430mAh
Sensors Gyroscope Accelrometer GPS Barometer Compass None
Audio 360 Audio with 4 Mics 360 degree omnidirectional microphone
Compatibility Android/Apple Apple confirmed
Price $749/£600 $399
Where to Buy Amazon (Prime Available) Amazon (Prime Available)

Now lets take a look at a video shot with both cameras:

YI 360 VR Example Videos

Low Light: 

 

Garmin VIRB 360 Example Videos

Daylight:

Overcast conditions:

Low Light:

 

Comparison Analysis

So which is the better camera, the Garmin 360 or the Yi 360 VR? Looking at the stats  on their own I’d have to give it to the Garmin VIRB. Both can shoot in 5.7K but the VIRB has so many other features, such as augmented reality overlay, water resistance and 4K live stream. The VIRB also has a key feature that is missing from the Yi 360 VR, stabilization options. The VIRB has 3 stabilization options that keep your 360 footage looking smooth which is extremely important when it comes to 360 video, this is applied using software in post production.

Looking at the example videos, it’s pretty clear that the VIRB 360 produces better quality video overall, but there isn’t much in it. Even though both shoot at the same 5.7K resolution, the colors, stitching and smoothness of the image appears better on the VIRB video. Saying that, the video quality of the Yi 360 VR is very good and far better than most other 360 cameras.

So all in all the VIRB seems to be the superior device, however it’s also twice as expensive as the YI 360 VR. At $700 the VIRB is among the most expensive consumer 360 camera ever, but it’s also one of the best.

See my VIRB 360 Review here

If you want a durable 360 camera for shooting outside activities or live streaming at the highest quality I would fully recommend the VIRB based only on how many sensors and features it has. If you’re not willing to pay the higher price but you still want a 5K 360 camera, albeit with some scaled back features, the YI 360 is a very good value for money option.

Click here to check the latest price of Yi 360 VR

Click here to check the latest price of the Garmin VIRB 360 

 

 

The 360 Guy

The 360 Guy

Owner of threesixtycameras.com. Writer, photographer and videographer. You can see my YouTube channel for guides of how to shoot 360 video. I've written for The Times, Digital Photography School and Sunday Express. 

2 Comments
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  1. Hi !
    I’m interested in buying a 360 camera to male photos for virtual visits.
    I tried 2 Kodak pixpro 360 4k and a gear 360 17 but i have exposure problems inside and i can’t easily change setting on my pixpros, as i use them together and the app is only available for 1 cam.
    I also find that quality of photos is not so good.
    Which cam would you suggest for such use ?

    • If you want professional quality 360 photos you need to use a DSLR with a fish eye lens and panoramaic head. Most all in one 360 cameras can’t take great photos unless you spend thousands!

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