DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal Ultimate Review 2024

The DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal sets a new benchmark for stabilized underwater and action videography in 2024, combining rugged waterproofing up to 18 meters with buttery-smooth 6-axis stabilization. Seamless integration with DJI’s Action 4 and Action 5 cameras ensures pro-grade footage in extreme conditions, making it the ultimate tool for adventurers and content creators alike.

Key Takeaways

• Waterproof up to 18m: Dive deeper without a case for stunning underwater shots.
• 4K stabilization: Capture smooth, cinematic footage even in rough conditions.
• Quick-release design: Swap mounts fast for seamless shooting transitions.
• Long battery life: Record up to 160 minutes on a single charge.
• AI tracking: Keep subjects centered automatically during action sequences.
• Dual screens: Frame selfies and action shots with front and rear displays.
• Wind noise reduction: Crisp audio even at high speeds or in windy environments.

The Adventure Awaits: Why the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal Is a Game-Changer

Imagine this: You’re hiking up a mountain trail, the sun rising over the peaks, and you want to capture the moment in stunning clarity. But every time you move, your footage shakes like a leaf in the wind. Or worse, you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and you’re terrified to even glance at your camera, afraid it might slip from your grip and vanish into the depths. These are the moments when having the right gear isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. That’s where the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal comes in. It’s not just a camera; it’s your adventure partner, your storyteller, and your peace of mind, all in one sleek package.

Over the past few months, I’ve taken this little powerhouse on hikes, dives, and even a wild kayaking trip, and I’m here to share everything I’ve learned. From its rock-solid stabilization to its ability to survive the wildest conditions, this camera is designed for those who live life on the edge. But is it worth the investment? Does it really deliver on its promises? And most importantly, will it make your adventures look as epic as they feel? Let’s dive in and find out.

What Makes the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal Stand Out?

Rock-Solid Stabilization: Say Goodbye to Shaky Footage

Let’s start with the big one: stabilization. The DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal uses a combination of advanced hardware and software to keep your footage smooth, no matter how wild the ride gets. The gimbal itself is a three-axis stabilizer, which means it adjusts in real-time to your movements. Whether you’re biking down a rocky trail or skiing through fresh powder, the camera keeps your shots buttery smooth.

I tested this on a mountain biking trip, and the difference was night and day. Without the gimbal, my footage looked like it was filmed on a washing machine. With it? Like a professional cinematographer was following me. The DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal also uses RockSteady 2.0, DJI’s latest stabilization algorithm, which works even when you’re not using the gimbal. So if you’re holding the camera in your hand, it’s still doing its best to keep things steady.

Pro tip: For the best results, make sure the gimbal is properly balanced before you start filming. A little adjustment can make a huge difference in how smooth your footage turns out.

Waterproof Without the Hassle: Dive In, Literally

One of the biggest selling points of this camera is its waterproof capability. It’s rated to 18 meters (59 feet) without a case, which is pretty impressive for an action camera. That means you can take it snorkeling, kayaking, or even diving (with proper caution, of course). I took it on a snorkeling trip in the Caribbean, and it handled the waves, the saltwater, and even a few accidental drops with no issues.

But here’s the real kicker: you don’t need to mess with bulky underwater cases. Just turn it on, dive in, and start filming. The touchscreen is responsive even when wet, and the buttons are designed to be easy to press, even with gloves on. I’ve used other action cameras that required a case just to get near water, and it always felt like overkill. This? Feels like freedom.

Note: While it’s waterproof, it’s not designed for deep-sea diving or high-pressure environments. Stick to snorkeling and shallow dives for the best results.

4K at 120fps: Slow-Mo Magic

If you love slow-motion footage, this camera delivers. It can shoot 4K at 120fps, which means you can capture those split-second moments in stunning detail. I used this feature to film a friend jumping off a cliff into a lake, and the slow-mo effect made it look like a scene from a movie. The camera also supports HDR video, which helps balance the exposure in high-contrast scenes (think bright skies and dark shadows).

Example: On a kayaking trip, I filmed a waterfall from below. The HDR mode made the water look bright and clear, while the rocks stayed visible in the shadows. Without HDR, the footage would have been either too dark or too blown out.

Tip: For slow-motion shots, use a higher frame rate (like 100fps or 120fps) and then slow it down in post. The quality difference is worth it.

How It Performs in Real-World Adventures

Hiking and Backpacking: Lightweight and Tough

When you’re on a long hike, every ounce counts. The DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal weighs just 136 grams (4.8 ounces), which is lighter than most smartphones. I carried it in a small chest mount on a 10-mile hike, and it never got in the way or felt heavy. The battery life is also impressive—around 135 minutes of continuous recording in 4K at 60fps. That’s enough for most day hikes, and you can always bring a spare battery if you’re planning something longer.

One thing I noticed: the camera gets warm after extended use. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re planning to film for hours straight. I just let it cool down every hour or so, and it worked fine.

Water Sports: Kayaking, Paddleboarding, and More

Water sports are where this camera really shines. I took it kayaking on a choppy lake, and the gimbal kept the footage smooth even when the waves were rocking my boat. The waterproof rating means you don’t have to worry about splashes or accidental dips, and the camera’s hydrophobic coating helps water bead up and slide off the lens.

Pro tip: If you’re filming in choppy water, use a chest mount or a head strap. It keeps the camera steady and gives you a first-person perspective that’s perfect for action shots.

For paddleboarding, I used a handlebar mount (yes, it works for SUPs too!). The camera stayed secure, and the footage was smooth even when I was standing up and balancing. The only downside? The touchscreen is hard to use when you’re wet, so I ended up using the buttons to start and stop recording.

Winter Sports: Skiing and Snowboarding

Winter sports are another area where this camera excels. The gimbal handles the vibrations of skiing or snowboarding like a champ, and the waterproof rating means you don’t have to worry about snow or ice. I took it on a ski trip, and the footage was so smooth it looked like I had a professional crew following me.

Example: I filmed a friend carving down a steep slope, and the slow-motion shot made it look like he was floating. The camera also handled the cold well—I didn’t notice any performance issues even when the temperature dropped below freezing.

Note: If you’re filming in very cold conditions, keep the battery warm when not in use. Cold batteries drain faster.

Design and Usability: What It’s Like to Use Every Day

Compact and Rugged: Built for the Wild

The DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal is designed to be tough. The body is made of a durable polymer, and the lens is protected by a scratch-resistant coating. I accidentally dropped it on a rock during a hike, and it survived with no visible damage. The camera also has a magnetic mount system, which makes it easy to swap between different mounts (chest, head, handlebar, etc.) in seconds.

The only downside? The lens cap is a bit fiddly. It’s designed to be waterproof, but it can be hard to open with gloves on. I ended up keeping it in my pocket and just removing it when I needed to film.

Touchscreen and Buttons: A Balanced Approach

The touchscreen is responsive and easy to use, even in bright sunlight. But DJI also included physical buttons, which is a lifesaver when your hands are wet or you’re wearing gloves. The main button (the one you press to start recording) is large and easy to find, and there’s a secondary button for taking photos or switching modes.

Pro tip: If you’re using the camera in cold conditions, turn off the touchscreen and rely on the buttons. Touchscreens can be less responsive when it’s cold.

App Integration: DJI Mimo for Editing and Control

The DJI Mimo app is a great companion to the camera. You can use it to control the camera remotely, adjust settings, and even edit your footage. The app also has templates for quick edits, which is perfect if you want to share your adventures on social media.

I used the app to edit a kayaking trip, and it took less than 10 minutes to create a polished video. The only downside? The app can be a bit slow to connect to the camera, especially if you’re in an area with weak Wi-Fi.

Battery Life and Accessories: What You Need to Know

Battery Performance: Real-World Testing

Battery life is always a concern with action cameras, and the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal delivers. It uses a 1300mAh battery, which gives you around 135 minutes of recording in 4K at 60fps. That’s enough for most day trips, but if you’re planning a long adventure, bring a spare.

I tested this on a 6-hour kayaking trip. I filmed for about 2 hours total (with breaks in between), and the battery lasted the whole time. But if you’re planning to film continuously, you’ll need at least two batteries.

Tip: Use the camera’s power-saving mode when you’re not filming. It extends the battery life by turning off the screen and reducing background processes.

Accessories: What’s Included and What to Buy

The camera comes with a basic set of accessories: a battery, a charging cable, a quick-release mount, and a lens cap. But if you want to get the most out of it, you’ll need a few extras. Here’s what I recommend:

• Spare battery: For long adventures.
• Chest mount: For hiking, biking, and water sports.
• Handlebar mount: For bikes, kayaks, and paddleboards.
• External microphone: For better audio quality.
• ND filters: For filming in bright sunlight.

The only downside? Some of these accessories can be expensive. But they’re worth it if you’re serious about capturing high-quality footage.

Comparing the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal to the Competition

DJI vs. GoPro: The Showdown

The biggest competitor to the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal is the GoPro Hero12 Black. Both cameras offer 4K at 120fps, waterproof ratings, and advanced stabilization. But there are a few key differences:

• Stabilization: DJI’s RockSteady 2.0 is slightly better than GoPro’s HyperSmooth 6.0, especially in high-motion scenarios.
• Waterproof: DJI’s 18-meter rating without a case beats GoPro’s 10-meter rating.
• Battery life: DJI’s 135 minutes beats GoPro’s 90 minutes.
• Price: The DJI is slightly more expensive, but the extra features might be worth it.

Verdict: If you prioritize stabilization, waterproofing, and battery life, the DJI is the better choice. But if you’re already invested in the GoPro ecosystem, the Hero12 is still a solid option.

DJI vs. Insta360: The 360-Degree Question

The Insta360 One RS is another popular action camera, but it’s designed for 360-degree filming. If you want to capture immersive, 360-degree footage, the Insta360 is the way to go. But if you’re looking for traditional, stabilized footage, the DJI is the better choice.

Example: I used the Insta360 on a hiking trip and loved the 360-degree footage. But when I wanted smooth, traditional shots, I switched back to the DJI.

The Verdict: Is the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal Worth It?

After months of testing, I can confidently say that the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal is one of the best action cameras on the market. It’s not perfect—the lens cap is fiddly, the touchscreen can be slow in cold weather, and the accessories can get pricey—but the pros far outweigh the cons.

If you’re an adventurer who wants smooth, stable, and waterproof footage, this camera is a no-brainer. It’s tough, reliable, and packed with features that make it easy to capture your adventures in stunning detail. Whether you’re hiking, diving, or skiing, the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal is the ultimate tool for telling your story.

So, is it worth the investment? Absolutely. Your adventures deserve to be remembered—and this camera ensures they’ll look as epic as they feel.

Data Table: DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal vs. Competitors

Feature	DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal	GoPro Hero12 Black	Insta360 One RS
Max Resolution	4K at 120fps	4K at 120fps	5.7K at 30fps (360°)
Waterproof Rating	18m (no case)	10m (no case)	10m (with case)
Battery Life	135 mins (4K/60fps)	90 mins (4K/60fps)	120 mins (5.7K/30fps)
Stabilization	RockSteady 2.0	HyperSmooth 6.0	FlowState
Price	$$$	$$	$$$

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal suitable for underwater use?

Yes, the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal is designed for underwater adventures, with a waterproof rating of up to 11 meters (36 feet) without a housing. This makes it ideal for snorkeling, kayaking, and shallow diving. For deeper dives, an additional protective housing is recommended.

How does the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal stabilize footage?

The gimbal uses advanced 3-axis stabilization technology to eliminate shaky footage, even during high-motion activities like biking or surfing. Combined with DJI’s RockSteady stabilization software, it delivers smooth, cinematic video in any environment.

Can I use the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal in extreme weather conditions?

Absolutely. The gimbal is built to withstand rain, snow, and dusty environments thanks to its rugged, weather-sealed design. Its operating temperature range of -20°C to 45°C (-4°F to 113°F) ensures reliable performance in extreme conditions.

Does the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal support live streaming?

Yes, the camera and gimbal combo supports live streaming via Wi-Fi or USB-C to platforms like YouTube and Facebook. The stabilized footage ensures professional-quality streams, perfect for vloggers and content creators.

What accessories are compatible with the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal?

The gimbal works seamlessly with a wide range of DJI accessories, including external microphones, mounts, and filters. It also supports third-party action camera gear via standard 1/4″-20 threads and quick-release plates.

How long does the battery last on the DJI Action Camera Waterproof Gimbal?

The built-in battery offers up to 160 minutes of continuous recording with the gimbal active, depending on usage conditions. It also supports quick charging, reaching 80% capacity in just 30 minutes.