Small compact cameras have largely disappeared from the market since smartphone cameras have caught up with them in terms of image quality. However, cell phones cannot provide 360° shots, so this is still a niche where special cameras can offer added value. The newly announced Ricoh THETA X can output panorama videos with 5760 × 2880 pixels at 30fps. Photo resolutions are supported up to 11K. The Theta X has a largely new interior and is the first 360° camera in its series to feature a small 2.25" touch display.
While the camera will still be more convenient to operate via iOS / Android app, the display gives you access to more setting options than before, as well as an image preview. (Since the camera records in 360°, selecting a picture section is basically unnecessary, though). Also new is the removable battery and recording to an external memory card.
Built in are two 1/2" image sensors, each with 48MP and F2.4 optics - the Theta Z has two 1" sensors in comparison, but offers lower resolution, 4K video at 30 fps. The new Theta X lets you record at up to 60fps in 4K mode. The max data rate is 120 Mbps, even at 5.7K. Live streaming of the recordings is also possible (in max. 4K / 30 fps).
The Ricoh Theta X measures 51.7mm (W) × 136.2mm (H) × 29.0mm (D) and weighs 170g. It is scheduled to hit the market in March for 999 euros.
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