DJI has once again delivered a compact yet rugged design that’s built to withstand the toughest challenges with their DJI Osmo Action 4. But what truly sets this latest iteration apart is its impressive array of features that cater to both novice and professional content creators.
The Osmo Action 4 retains the same sleek and sturdy build that made its predecessor a favourite among outdoor enthusiasts. Boasting unparalleled waterproofing capabilities and a really clever magnetic mounting system that allows for fast changeover, this camera is ready to be by your side on any journey.
The team have identified a weak spot in the photo and video quality and through some major enhancements has turned the latest Osmo Action 4 into an upgrade worthy of your attention. They’ve achieved this by introducing a brand-new, larger 1/1.3-inch sensor. This sensor’s dimensions give a 65% increase giving more dynamic range over the sensor featured in the Osmo Action 3.
The video resolution remains a formidable 4K at up to 120fps, with an added 8x slow-motion mode in Full HD. The magic lies in the larger sensor coupled with comparable resolution. This configuration results in larger pixels that are better equipped to capture light, elevating image quality, especially in challenging low-light conditions, It’s an issue that all action cams have and while the DJI Osmo Action 4 isn’t perfect in low light it’s one of the best options.
The real game-changer is the DJI D-Log colour profile with 10-bit colour depth. This, combined with the expanded sensor size, leads to a significant leap in image quality, characterized by richer colour gradation and a broader dynamic range. Notably, D-Log is selectively available in video modes, making it the go-to choice for those aiming to elevate their content’s visual allure.
The inclusion of Rocksteady 3.0+ stabilization ensures your footage remains remarkably steady, this is comparable to GoPro’s Hypersmooth feature. These new camera options really render the use of external gimbals obsolete making your camera kit much more compact on long journeys.
Content Creators can live stream using Wi-Fi or your phone’s hotspot. It’s as easy as choosing your platform, either Facebook, Youtube or using RTMP (although at the time of testing the Facebook feature was down), Choose your resolution and connect. This is done via the app. Pro tip though, this can chew the battery so plug it into an external power supply using the USB C.
It’s impressive how the Osmo Action 4 raises the waterproofing bar for divers, allowing you to plunge up to 18m deep (nearly 60 feet) without the need for a case. Especially handy when paired with the Action 4’s colour temperature sensor that intelligently adjusts white balance and auto-exposure for highly accurate colours, even in complex lighting environments like when scuba or free diving deep below the surface. I was seriously blown away with the colours straight out of the camera with very little need for colour correction.
Pro Tip: Sync with the DJI Mimo app for improved detail rendering underwater.
The battery is “Deep Freeze Resistant” with a long life of 2.5 hours and equipped with Fast Charge that will get you back in action in around 18 minutes. I found this to be true to its word and 2 and a half hours it’s a substantial amount of time.
Using the Action 4 is simple with its familiar layout of front and rear touchscreens, backed by an intuitive menu system. Certainly, a benefit to anyone looking at getting one is the “Adventure Combo package”. This comes with extra batteries and a charging hub for extended shooting sessions as well as a 1.5m Extension Rod, This is a handy accessory that adds a new dimension to your shots, providing drone-like perspectives and with InvisiStick you can remove the rod from your shots. It does lack a physical record button which I think would be a good inclusion especially since when filming I don’t like to use voice activation as I’m normally around other people and find it off-putting.
Maneuvering around the device you’ll find click-and-slide style doors that lead to the battery compartment where you also have the slot for the Micro SD card and, on the opposite side of the device a USB type c connection. When using the frame you can quickly swap between landscape and portrait mode using the magnetic quick-release connection located on the bottom and side of the frame and the rod. These quick-release connections are amazing and save so much time from other screw-on methods.
In the growing world of action cameras, the DJI Osmo Action 4 stands out as a versatile contender, especially for those seeking a companion to their smartphone. With its ability to capture exhilarating moments that would otherwise elude traditional cameras, it’s undeniably a valuable addition to any creative content arsenal.
Pricing-wise, the Osmo Action 4 comes in two flavours: the Standard Combo at around $629 but I’d always suggest going a bit extra for the Adventure Combo with the Extension Rod, additional batteries, battery case, frame and mounts. This sets you up for nearly any filming scenario.
In a tech market that continually raises the bar, DJI’s Osmo Action 4 confidently stakes its claim as a top-tier action camera, transcending its predecessor and cementing its position as a go-to choice for adventure-seekers and content creators alike.
