Insta360 Ace Pro 2: The Next-Level Action Camera for Surfers

4.9

As a surfing magazine dedicated to testing the best gear on the market, we’ve always been impressed by Insta360’s performance. The original Ace Pro set a high standard, but the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 has pushed the boundaries even further. With enhanced image quality, powerful AI features, and unbeatable waterproof durability, this camera is a must-have for surfers looking to capture their adventures in stunning detail.

Next-Level Camera Quality

The Ace Pro 2 doesn’t just film your ride; it immortalizes every wave. Its upgraded 1/1.3” 8K sensor offers crisp footage, whether you’re dropping into a massive barrel or gliding across smaller waves, like those in the video above. The enhanced color accuracy and superior low-light perfo

Thanks to its PureVideo Mode, even dim lighting isn’t an issue. The camera adjusts intelligently, allowing it to pick up the subtle textures and colors that other cameras might miss. This is a game changer for surfers who often find themselves in challenging light conditions. rmance guarantee that your sunset sessions or overcast days still look vibrant and sharp. We love how the lighting remains consistent whether the camera is submersed or above the surface; it dynamically adjusts, ensuring the quality is optimal regardless of the environment. Check out the scenes in our test footage where we shift from underwater (the hand paddling) back up to the surface. It is silky smooth and perfectly exposed both above and below the surface.

Rugged Design, Ready for the Ocean

Waterproof without needing additional cases, the Ace Pro 2 is ready to hit the surf with you. With a waterproof rating upgraded to 39ft (12m), you can take it deeper into the ocean (even for snorkeling or scuba trips), and its removable lens guard ensures that the camera stays protected, no matter how rough the conditions get. For surfers, this rugged design means fewer worries and more focus on riding the perfect wave.

Superior Audio: Wind Guard & Advanced Algorithms

If you’re planning to vlog your surf adventures, the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 has you covered with superior audio features. The new Wind Guard is perfect for minimizing wind noise when you’re filming on the beach or from your surfboard before and after your session. Paired with refreshed audio algorithms, it ensures that sounds like crashing waves, commentary, or any dialogue are captured clearly. Whether you’re narrating your surf day or sharing the energy of the scene, the Ace Pro 2 delivers clean, crisp audio.

Water-based vlogging? Surfing podcast interviews (in the water)? These might now be a reality with the Ace Pro 2!

FlowState Stabilization & Horizon Lock

Surfing footage can often be shaky due to the dynamic nature of the sport. With Insta360’s FlowState Stabilization and in-camera 360° Horizon Lock, surfers can now get impossibly smooth and level shots, no matter how rough the surf is. Whether paddling, duck diving, or dropping into a wave, your footage remains perfectly stabilized.

Seamless User Experience

Insta360 has created an experience where shooting, editing, and sharing are simple and fast. The AI Highlight Assistant automatically picks out the best moments from your footage, letting you focus on the ride while the camera takes care of editing.

For those who love creating content on the go, the 2.5” flip touchscreen makes framing your shots and reviewing footage incredibly easy. With Clarity Zoom, you can zoom in 2x without losing image quality—perfect for capturing those moments that matter most without sacrificing detail.

A True 8K Experience

Insta360 doesn’t hold back on visuals. The Ace Pro 2 records in 8K30fps, delivering four times the resolution of 4K and capturing your surf adventures in crystal-clear detail. The 50MP still photos are also a standout, offering rich, vibrant images that rival even high-end mirrorless cameras. Below, see an example of a 12.5MP photo taken with the Insta360 Ace Pro 2.

12.5 MP Photo

While 8K30fps is perfect for calmer daytime conditions, Insta360 recommends using 4K30fps for faster-paced or high-intensity activities. This setting ensures smooth stabilization, while the Active HDR mode enhances dynamic range for perfect lighting and shadow detail.

Fast Charging & Long Battery Life

When you’re surfing, having a camera with a long-lasting battery is crucial. The 1800mAh battery delivers 180 minutes of continuous shooting and can be fast-charged to 80% in just 18 minutes. This means less time waiting onshore and more time capturing waves. This is THE BEST camera for the adventurer who needs battery life, quality, and simplicity!

Accessories

We suggest you get the Get-Set Bundle, which includes 1x Insta360 Ace Pro 2, 1x Wind Guard (pre-installed by default), 2x Batteries, 1x Standard Mount, 1x Mic Cap, 1x USB-C Cable, 1x 128GB microSD Card and 1x Mini 2-in-1 Tripod.

Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Get-Set Bundle

For your surf sessions, you also need the Insta360 Floating Surfboard Mount or Floaty Stick if you’re filming in the water. These accessories help keep the camera stable and secure, ensuring you capture every moment without worrying about losing your gear in the waves. The surfboard mount is rather large and will take up significant space on your surfboard deck. You’ll also have the mount sticking out when you don’t use the camera, so take care of yourself. The mount could give you a headache (literally) if your head connects with it.

Insta360 Floating Surfboard Mount

Our Verdict: A Game-Changing Surf Camera

Insta360 has taken everything we loved about the original Ace Pro and improved on it with the Ace Pro 2. From its superior image quality to its rugged, waterproof design, this camera is ready for any adventure. Whether you’re a professional surfer looking to document your rides or just want a reliable camera for capturing fun surf sessions, the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 sets a new standard.

If you’re in the market for an action camera that combines the best in performance, durability, and ease of use, the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is undoubtedly one of the best options available today.

Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is available via the Insta360 Official Store and it retails at US$474.99.

Insta360 Ace Pro 2: The Next-Level Action Camera for Surfers
Performance
Quality
Value
Best features
Flip Screen
Stabilization
Quality
Needs improvement
None
4.9