DJI, the renowned drone manufacturer, has recently launched its latest action camera, the Osmo Action 4. This new model boasts an improved camera that excels in low-light conditions, making it a top choice for action photographers and videographers. One of the key upgrades is the introduction of a larger 1/1.3-inch sensor, similar to the one found on DJI’s popular Mavic 3 Pro, Mini 3 Pro, and Air 3 drones. This is a substantial improvement over the previous model, which featured a 1/1.7-inch sensor, as well as the GoPro Hero 11’s 1/1.9-inch sensor.
In addition to the sensor upgrade, the Osmo Action 4 also introduces D-Log M, a feature that significantly enhances the camera’s dynamic range. This improvement ensures that high-contrast scenes are captured with greater detail and accuracy. Despite these enhancements, there are minimal changes to the rest of the camera’s specifications. It retains the same 155-degree field of view and f/2.8 aperture as the previous model. However, it now supports 4K 120p video recording in normal shooting mode with 10-bit HDR, elevating the camera’s video capabilities.
While the Osmo Action 4’s photo resolution is slightly lower than its predecessor, it still produces impressive image quality with a resolution of 3,648 x 2,736. Its max 4:3 video quality is also slightly diminished at 3,840 x 2,880. In comparison, the GoPro Hero 11 can shoot 5.3K video at up to 60 fps, 4K at 120 fps, and 2.7K at up to 240 fps.
In terms of design, the Osmo Action 4 closely resembles its predecessor, featuring a record button on the top and a power button on the side. The battery compartment and microSD slot are located on the right side, while the USB-C port is on the left. The camera’s battery remains the same as before, offering a recording time of 150 minutes. Notably, its charging time has significantly reduced to just 18 minutes for 80% battery capacity. The Action 4 relies on a microSD card for storage, lacking internal storage options.
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The Action 4 continues to utilize DJI’s magnetic locking system, which eliminates the need for a case to attach accessories. It is also compatible with any accessories that are compatible with a GoPro mount. DJI now offers a range of its own accessories, including a chest strap mount, helmet chin mount, 60m waterproof case, bike seat rail mount, neck mount, mini handlebar mount, Osmo Action 360° Wrist Strap, and a wrist-worn remote designed specifically for the Action 4.
One notable improvement is the camera’s water resistance. The Osmo Action 4 is now waterproof down to 18m or 59 feet, an increase of 2m from the previous model. When used with the waterproof case, it can withstand depths of up to 60m or 208 feet. The camera’s front screen has a resolution of 1.4 inches, while the rear display measures 2.25 inches. Both screens offer a brightness of 750 nits, ensuring optimal visibility even on bright sunny days. Additionally, the camera features three microphones and advanced wind noise reduction software, resulting in impressive audio recording quality.
The Osmo Action 4 features DJI’s latest stabilization technology, including Rocksteady 3.0 and Rocksteady 3.0+. These features effectively eliminate camera shake in all directions, even while recording at the maximum 4K/60fps. The camera also includes HorizonSteady, which keeps the horizon level regardless of the camera’s rotation, and HorizonBalancing, which corrects horizontal tilt within ±45° while allowing stabilized recording at 4K/60fps.
To use the Osmo Action 4, users are required to activate it through DJI’s smartphone app. The app not only facilitates activation but also allows users to view, transfer, and even livestream footage via Wi-Fi. Additionally, DJI offers the LightCut app, which connects wirelessly to the Action 4 and enables quick previews and auto-editing without the need to transfer footage from the camera.
The launch of the Osmo Action 4 so soon after the release of the previous model is primarily due to the feedback received from users and reviewers. Many reviews, including ones from Engadget, have criticized the Action 3 for its poor low-light image quality and subpar stabilization when compared to the GoPro Hero 11. DJI has addressed these concerns in the Action 4 by enhancing the camera’s low-light capabilities and upgrading the stabilization features. The Action 4 also offers several quality-of-life improvements, such as quick-switching between custom modes, voice prompts, voice control, InvisiStick for hiding the selfie stick digitally, external mic support, and more.
In terms of image quality, the new sensor in the Action 4 delivers a significant improvement. It effectively eliminates pixelation and blocky artifacts in low-light conditions, producing better results in situations like capturing footage in a forest on a cloudy day. The camera also performs well in low-light scenarios, with noise well-controlled for its relatively small sensor. In this regard, it surpasses the GoPro Hero 11. However, the RockSteady stabilization still lags slightly behind its competitors, including the Hero 11 and the Insta360 X3 action camera. Nevertheless, the RockSteady+ mode provides improved stabilization performance, offering results that are exceptionally close to the levels achieved by rival models.
As for pricing, the Osmo Action 4 has garnered some criticism due to its considerably higher price of $399, compared to its predecessor’s $329 price tag. This puts it in direct competition with the GoPro Hero 11, which is also priced at $399. However, DJI offers an Adventure Combo package that provides better value for money at $499. This package includes the camera along with three batteries, the Horizontal-Vertical ProtectiveFrame, a quick-release adapter mount, a mini quick-release mount, a curved adhesive base, two locking screws, a USB-C cable, the multifunction battery case, a 1.5 extension rod, an action lens hood, and an anti-slip pad.
In conclusion, the DJI Osmo Action 4 is an impressive action camera that offers improved image quality and enhanced stabilization. While it may appear similar to its predecessor, the upgrades in low-light performance and stabilization make it a worthy investment for content creators and action enthusiasts alike. Though it faces tough competition from the GoPro Hero 11, DJI’s reputation and additional features, such as the Adventure Combo package, make the Osmo Action 4 a compelling choice in the action camera market.
