The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 has introduced two generations of street photography kits: the first released in December 2025, followed by a second generation in January 2026. It’s important to understand that these are not traditional upgrades from Gen 1 to Gen 2. Instead, they represent two different design philosophies for street shooting, each tailored to distinct creator needs.
Both kits were co-developed by Tilta and Insta360, combining professional cinema-grade accessory design with action camera portability. With these kits, the Ace Pro 2 is no longer just a wide-angle action camera — it effectively transforms into a compact street photography and vlogging powerhouse, offering a compelling alternative to traditional mirrorless or Leica-style street setups.
In this hands-on review, I’ll unbox both Xplorer Bundle, test them in real shooting environments, and break down their key differences in detail. Whether you’re considering buying the Ace Pro 2 or already own one and want to expand its capabilities, this guide will help you understand:
- which kit is better for your shooting style
- whether upgrading is worth it
- how the two versions compare in real-world use
- which street photography kit delivers the best value
By the end, you’ll know exactly which of the most popular Ace Pro 2 street photography kits is right for you.
What Is the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Xplorer Bundle?
I originally thought the 8K recording capability of the Ace Pro 2 had already redefined what an action camera could be. Yet this Xplorer Bundle manages to impress all over again. Both its design and real-world performance possess a uniquely compelling appeal — one that genuinely sparks creative inspiration and elevates the user experience of an action camera to an entirely new level.
For that reason, I won’t reduce it to superficial descriptions like “comfortable grip” or “solid build.” From the perspective of an action camera enthusiast, photography hobbyist, and DSLR user, the true value of this kit lies in how it transforms the Ace Pro 2’s wide-angle lens into something closer to a real camera system. It makes shooting more intuitive, more intentional, and ultimately much closer to an authentic street photography workflow.
Unlike basic accessory bundles, this kit is clearly designed around real shooting scenarios, such as:
- Travel Filming
- Vlogging
It’s essentially a “starter creator kit” designed to unlock the full potential of the action camera.
What’s Included in the Xplorer Bundle?
The Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Xplorer Bundle includes five purpose-built accessories: a multifunctional frame, cold-shoe shutter button, decorative cold-shoe cover, ergonomic hand grip, and wrist strap. Together, these components create a fully integrated shooting system designed specifically for real-world street photography scenarios.
Insert the Camera into the Multi-Purpose Frame
The Xplorer Kit features a durable aluminum frame that enhances both stability and structural protection. To install the camera, press the button labeled “PRESS” to release the frame, then slide the Ace Pro 2 into place. Push it firmly until you hear a distinct click, which confirms that the camera is securely locked and properly seated.
Install the Hand Grip
Detach the magnetic base plate from the bottom of the hand grip, align it with the mounting thread, and tighten clockwise until fully secured. The setup is quick, intuitive, and tool-free.
Install the Shutter Button and Cold Shoe
Next, install the shutter button module with integrated cold shoe mount. Align it with the cold shoe rail and slide it forward until it clicks into position, confirming a secure connection.
Below is the Xplorer Kit installed ⬇️
Who Should Buy the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Xplorer Bundle?
✔ travel creators
✔ vloggers
✔ outdoor adventurers
✔ first-time action camera buyers
✖ users who already own multiple mounts
✖ casual users who shoot occasionally
Having tested countless cameras for street photography, the setup I find myself reaching for most often now is the Ace Pro 2 Xplorer Bundle. With the camera set to a Linear FOV, 12.5MP photo mode, and 2× framing, distortion from the ultra-wide lens is greatly reduced, resulting in images that resemble the perspective and rendering of a traditional camera system.
Xplorer Bundle Real-World Shooting Photos
What Is the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Xplorer Pro Bundle?
The Xplorer Kit 2.0 (Xplorer Pro Bundle) is a refined upgrade designed to enhance grip ergonomics and shooting control. Through a direct USB-C connection, it provides seamless access to zoom (1×–2×), exposure settings, shutter operation, and pass-through charging. With this level of integration, the Ace Pro 2 effectively evolves from an action camera into a truly functional street photography tool.
Unboxing
The Xplorer Kit 2.0 represents a thoughtfully engineered upgrade focused on improved handling and operational precision. Connected directly through USB-C, it enables real-time zoom control, exposure tuning, shutter triggering, and simultaneous charging. This tight integration elevates the Ace Pro 2 beyond a typical action camera, turning it into a highly practical street photography system.
Note: You must remove the Ace Pro 2’s original charging port cover before installation.
Built-in Battery
The grip houses a built-in 2010mAh battery, significantly boosting overall recording endurance. Given that the Ace Pro 2 itself uses an 1800mAh internal battery, this effectively adds the equivalent of one extra battery to your shooting time.
Beyond the integrated battery, the accessory also features SD card support. When connected and powered on, the Ace Pro 2 automatically recognizes the grip and displays intuitive on-screen instructions for operating the dial and buttons.
Advantages of the Xplorer Bundle 2.0
- Built-in Battery
- Ergonomic Grip: Delivers a secure and stable hold, helping minimize shake during handheld shooting.
- Lightweight Frame Design
- Enhanced Shutter Button: Supports direct connection of external accessories such as flashes, microphones, and tripods — no adapters required.
- Direct Accessory Connectivity
- Intuitive Physical Controls:Zoom adjustments and shooting mode changes can be quickly operated via dedicated buttons and a control dial, ensuring fast and responsive handling.
Ace Pro 2 Xplorer Pro Bundle Real-World Shooting Photos
Ace Pro 2 Xplorer Bundle 1.0 vs Xplorer Bundle 2.0
Product Design
Xplorer Bundle 1.0: The original design adopts a boxier form factor, and its control layout can become less efficient during prolonged use.
Xplorer Bundle 2.0: The redesigned model introduces an ergonomic grip and lever-style shutter, resulting in handling that closely resembles a traditional compact camera. This translates into better comfort, smoother one-handed control, and noticeably reduced fatigue over extended shoots.
Functionality
Xplorer Bundle 1.0: Built primarily for basic street photography use, prioritizing simplicity and essential controls.
Xplorer Bundle 2.0: Adds advanced functionality through a dedicated control dial, enabling filter selection, lossless zoom, customizable shortcuts, and faster operation — delivering a more professional shooting experience.
Color
Xplorer Bundle 1.0: Built primarily for basic street photography use, prioritizing simplicity and essential controls.
Xplorer Bundle 2.0: Available only in black.
Is the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 Xplorer Bundle 2.0 Worth It?
For most users → Yes
Buying accessories individually often costs more and requires compatibility research. The Xplorer Bundle solves this by giving you a curated setup that works together seamlessly.
Choose it if:
- this is your first action camera
- you travel frequently
- you shoot regularly
- you want versatile shooting options
Skip it if:
- you already own compatible mounts
- you only shoot occasionally
Final Verdict — Best Accessories for Ace Pro 2 Xplorer Bundle
For creators seeking a compact camera that can seamlessly transition between street photography, video production, and action scenarios, the Ace Pro 2 Xplorer Pro Bundle stands out as a highly capable solution. Few setups offer this level of versatility in such a portable form.
In practical street use, the newly introduced screen hood is another surprisingly useful addition. Under bright outdoor lighting, it noticeably enhances display visibility, allowing for more accurate composition and faster shooting decisions.
Flip Screen Hood for Insta360 Ace Pro 2
For creators seeking a compact camera capable of seamlessly transitioning between street photography, video production, and action shooting, the Ace Pro 2 Xplorer Bundle stands out as an exceptionally capable solution. Few setups deliver this level of versatility in such a portable form factor.
In real-world street use, the newly introduced screen hood proves to be another highly practical addition. Under bright outdoor lighting, it significantly improves display visibility, enabling more precise composition and faster, more confident shooting decisions.
Pocket Printer for Insta360 Ace Pro 2
The Ace Pro 2 Xplorer Pro Bundle can also be paired directly with a pocket printer, enabling an instant photo experience reminiscent of classic Polaroid cameras. If you opt for the Ace Pro 2 Instant Print Bundle, you’ll receive the Street Photography Kit 2.0, Screen Hood, and Pocket Printer together — essentially a complete upgrade package for your Ace Pro 2.
