Insta360's new viewfinder accessory for its Go 3S action camera is an intriguing concept, but its execution leaves much to be desired. The idea of transforming the tiny action cam into a retro handheld shooter is clever, especially given the resurgence of retro cameras like Kodak's Charmera. However, the Retro Viewfinder accessory falls short in several key areas, making it a frustrating experience for photographers.
One of the biggest issues is the limited viewing angle. Tilting the viewfinder just 15 to 20 degrees results in a complete loss of view, which makes framing shots a trial-and-error process. This is especially problematic when trying to capture specific subjects or ensure a shot is level, as the viewfinder doesn't provide an accurate preview of the photos and videos being captured. While it's possible to fix this with a quick crop in the Insta360 app, it feels counterintuitive for an accessory designed to make framing more deliberate.
Another frustration is the battery life, which is limited even with an included clunky clip-on battery pack/charger. Capturing 4K video will drain the battery even faster, and connecting it to the Insta360 mobile app further reduces battery life. This makes it difficult to use the camera for extended periods without constantly worrying about battery life.
The Retro Viewfinder also requires a direct Wi-Fi connection to your smartphone to change any settings, which is far less convenient than pairing the action camera with Insta360's Action Pod. While the Retro Viewfinder includes a hidden NFC tag that streamlines launching and connecting to the app with a tap, the process still takes about 15 to 20 seconds to fully connect.
In my opinion, the Retro Viewfinder accessory is a missed opportunity. While it succeeds in making the Go 3S easier to hold, its other functionality is often frustrating. If you already own the Go 3S, the accessory is cheap enough to consider, but spending an extra $50 for a bundle with Insta360's Action Pod will serve you better in the long run. Personally, I think Insta360 should have focused on improving the viewfinder's accuracy and battery life, rather than just making it easier to hold. What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for a retro-style action camera, but the execution falls short of the mark. From my perspective, Insta360 could have done more to make the accessory more intuitive and functional, which would have made it a more compelling purchase.
