The Insta360 Link was a game-changer in the webcam space when it was released in 2022, arguably becoming the best AI webcam on the market. Its latest iteration, the Insta360 Link 2, delivers all the power of the original with several evolved features and options that make it a true must-buy.
The Insta360 Link 2 is an AI webcam with a two-axis gimbal capable of locking in on you, the subject, freeing you to use your entire space as the stage for whatever you’re presenting. In the box, you get the Insta360 Link 2, a magnetic mount with a 1/4-inch mount for tripods or similar supports, a USB-C to USB-C cable with a USB-C to USB-A adapter, recognition markers for the smart whiteboard feature and documentation.
The Insta360 Link 2 features a 1/2-inch sensor capable of producing 4K/30 fps or 1080/60 fps video in portrait or landscape mode (note: to use portrait mode, you must mount the camera sideways—the gimbal won’t rotate for you). It sports an F/1.8 aperture with a 26 mm equivalent focal length, offering a 79.5-degree field of view. The Link 2 supports HDR, a 4x digital zoom and autofocus from 10 cm to infinity.
“The Insta360 Link 2 is an AI webcam with a two-axis gimbal capable of locking in on you, the subject, freeing you to use your entire space as the stage for whatever you’re presenting.”
Despite its new look, the Insta360 Link 2 largely performs the same as its predecessor at a hardware level, with the same sensor, resolutions and other specs. However, it’s the camera’s AI features that represent a true leap forward in the company’s line of webcams. AI tracking has improved significantly, and it is now capable of focusing on a group and keeping everyone in frame rather than just an individual.
The smart whiteboard mode no longer requires markers for the camera to recognize it, but if you want to use gestures to direct the camera to the whiteboard, the markers come into play in that scenario. You can also set up Pause-Track areas, so when you move into that area, it becomes a static shot, even if you’re walking around, and it won’t resume tracking until you leave the area. This helps transform the Insta360 Link 2 from a simple robot into a more mindful camera operator.
There are also claims of improved AI audio, with better noise suppression and more options for users. The camera offers modes for voice focus, which activates noise suppression; voice suppression, which doesn’t suppress your voice but isolates it while minimizing background noise; and music balance, which essentially turns off noise suppression so all sounds can be heard clearly. While broadcasters won’t rely on this microphone for streams, YouTube videos or professional content—no webcam has reached that level yet—the mic and its features are more than adequate for Zoom calls, meetings or similar uses.
The video quality of the Insta360 Link 2 is excellent. There are no significant improvements over the original Link, but that’s understandable since the original already delivered a top-tier picture. Without changes like a larger sensor or other major hardware upgrades—which would likely result in a higher price—there wasn’t much room for improvement.
Insta360’s webcam software, the Insta360 Link Controller, is a valuable tool for the Link 2. Like most webcam software, it gives users full control over exposure, focus and white balance, as well as common settings like brightness, contrast and saturation. It also includes background replacement options, allowing users to swap out their background with an image or video of their choice alongside some presets. Additionally, there’s a background blur mode to hide what’s behind you, and a bokeh mode (not available in 4K) that mimics the soft background effect seen in DSLR or mirrorless cameras.
Makeup filters are available (for 1080p resolution or lower) to add subtle enhancements—or, in my case, some bold eyeliner and thick lashes. Users also have full control over AI tracking and audio modes directly through the software, eliminating the need for gesture controls.
Full gimbal control is also accessible through the Insta360 Link Controller, with the ability to save presets for favourite camera setups. This is where you can configure Pause-Track areas, adjust tracking speed and fine-tune how much of yourself is visible in the frame. The Insta360 Link Controller’s user-friendly interface ensures that even novice users can get the most out of their camera.
“The Insta360 Link 2 remains one of the highest-end webcams on the market, now with significantly improved AI features and a lower launch price than its predecessor.”
The Insta360 Link 2 is priced at $199.99 USD—$100 less than the launch price of the original Link—making it highly competitive among the best webcams available today. For those looking to save even more and who don’t need tracking features, the Insta360 Link 2C offers the same webcam without the gimbal for $149.99 USD, an exceptional price given its quality.
The Insta360 Link 2 remains one of the highest-end webcams on the market, now with significantly improved AI features and a lower launch price than its predecessor. It’s a premium webcam that might seem like overkill for a typical Teams call—except that its competitive pricing means you’re not overspending for the higher specs. Streamers and YouTubers will especially appreciate the tracking capabilities and features that make camera movements feel natural, as though a full production crew is behind the scenes. Ultimately, it’s a great webcam for all users.
