Panono Camera vs Ricoh Theta M15

Panono uses 36 camera modules to take 108 MP photos with zero blind spots. Because Panono avoids using wide angle lenses, instead opting for a large amount of camera modules with normal lenses, the device can avoid much of the distortion that's commonly found in 360-degree cameras.

Images taken with the Panono are Google Photosphere compatible. As such, they can be even used on Google Street View.

This can be achieved by the accelerometer which will trigger the camera at the highest point.

Once the image files are uploaded to the cloud, they are automatically stitched within minutes. Panono provides high quality stitching and is therefore convenient for users who want to save time.

Panono Camera can capture high dynamic range photos due to HDR mode. Its settings can be enabled via the iOS or Android app.

Panono has apps for Android and iOS mobile devices which allow camera settings to be changed (exposure time, ISO, White Balance). The camera can also be triggered remotely, previews can be viewed, images can be transferred to the cloud for stitching, and the user's own and other public panoramas can be viewed by pointing the mobile device in the desired viewing direction. Additional features include HDR and Anti Shake mode, while there are direct sharing options too (website embedding via iFrame, Facebook, Twitter).

The camera is resistant to light rain.

This device has two shells to secure its interior while the green rubber stripes help make it more flexible in case it drops.

With the Panono tripod adapter, the camera can be mounted on a tripod and charged while it is still in use.

Panono images can be accessed via apps for Android and iOS mobile devices and via browsers. Viewing images is achieved by pointing the mobile device in the desired viewing direction. This approach is easy to grasp by any user and no additional software is needed.

Theta has a button in the middle of the camera body that takes 360-degree images when pressed. This makes using the device very straightforward, if not self explanatory.

Theta is lightweight at just 95 g and small at 42 mm (W) x 129 mm (H) x 22.8 mm. This means that it can be easily carried around in a pocket or bag with practically no additional weight. Theta is therefore very flexible thanks to its size.

The Ricoh Theta is already shipping and has an established ecosystem of web apps, mobile apps, and strong user communities on Facebook and Google+. Most other options aren't available yet for purchase.

This 360 cam is one of the cheapest of its kind, it's a perfect size , and it can be connected to the user's smartphone. All of this, plus the ability to capture the world at 360°, for a very reasonable price.

Theta comes with Windows and Mac applications for managing captured footage, as well as iOS and Android companion apps that allow images to be taken remotely. Together these render the device extremely useful.