dji osmo action 4 camera review

Welcome, fellow adventurers, content creators, and tech enthusiasts! Are you on the hunt for a rugged, reliable, and ridiculously capable action camera that won’t let you down when the stakes are high? Look no further, because today we’re diving deep into a comprehensive dji osmo action 4 camera review. DJI, a name synonymous with innovation in the drone world, has consistently pushed boundaries in action cameras, and their latest offering promises to be a game-changer.

The action camera market is fiercely competitive, with new models constantly vying for your attention and your hard-earned cash. So, when a new contender steps into the ring, it needs to bring its A-game. The DJI Osmo Action 4 does just that, boasting significant upgrades and refined features designed to capture your most thrilling moments with unparalleled clarity and stability. From deep-sea dives to high-flying stunts, this camera aims to be your trusted companion.

In this in-depth dji osmo action 4 camera review, we’ll explore every facet of this impressive device. We’ll scrutinize its image and video quality, put its stabilization to the test, evaluate its battery life, delve into its user experience, and compare it against its predecessors and rivals. By the end, you’ll have all the insights you need to decide if the DJI Osmo Action 4 is the perfect action camera for your next epic adventure. Let’s get started!

Quick Answers to Common Questions

How good is the DJI Osmo Action 4 in low light?

The DJI Osmo Action 4 genuinely impresses with its improved low-light capabilities, thanks to its larger sensor. You’ll notice significantly more detail and less noise when shooting in dimmer environments compared to previous models.

What’s the battery life like on the DJI Osmo Action 4?

You’ll be pleased with the DJI Osmo Action 4’s robust battery life, often providing over 2.5 hours of continuous 1080p recording on a single charge. It’s designed to keep up with your adventures without constant recharges.

Is the video quality from the DJI Osmo Action 4 really that good?

Absolutely! The DJI Osmo Action 4 delivers stunning 4K footage with vibrant colors and sharp detail, making your adventures look incredible. Its 10-bit D-Log M color mode also offers fantastic flexibility for post-production.

How user-friendly is the DJI Osmo Action 4?

The DJI Osmo Action 4 is incredibly intuitive to use, featuring two responsive touchscreens (front and rear) that make navigating menus and changing settings a breeze. Its magnetic quick-release mount system also adds to its practical, on-the-go usability.

Is the DJI Osmo Action 4 truly waterproof?

Yes, the DJI Osmo Action 4 is ready for your aquatic adventures, boasting an impressive waterproof rating down to 18 meters (60 feet) without needing an additional case. Dive right in and capture amazing underwater footage!

Unboxing the Beast: First Impressions of the DJI Osmo Action 4

From the moment you crack open the box, the DJI Osmo Action 4 exudes a sense of robust reliability. DJI has clearly prioritized build quality, ensuring the camera feels solid and ready to withstand the rigors of extreme sports and challenging environments. Its compact, familiar form factor remains largely consistent with its predecessor, the Action 3, which is a good thing – why fix what isn’t broken? The design is practical, functional, and aesthetically pleasing, striking a balance between understated elegance and rugged readiness.

One of the standout physical features that immediately grabs your attention is DJI’s ingenious magnetic quick-release design. This isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a transformative feature for action camera users. Snapping the camera on and off mounts is incredibly fast and secure, allowing for swift transitions between different perspectives without fumbling with screws or clamps. Whether you’re moving it from a helmet to a chest mount, or from a bike handlebar to a backpack strap, the magnetic connection is strong and reassuring. This modularity extends to its accessories, making the DJI Osmo Action 4 incredibly versatile straight out of the box.

The dual full-color touchscreens are another immediate win. Having a responsive touchscreen on both the front and rear of the camera is a blessing for vlogging, selfies, and tricky shot compositions. The screens are bright and clear, even in direct sunlight, allowing for easy framing, settings adjustments, and playback. The rear screen measures 2.25 inches, while the front is 1.4 inches, both offering intuitive controls. The overall ergonomic design, coupled with well-placed buttons, makes the DJI Osmo Action 4 feel natural and comfortable to operate, even with gloves on. This initial hands-on experience strongly suggests that DJI has listened to user feedback and focused on creating an action camera that is not only powerful but also supremely user-friendly.

Image & Video Quality: Does the Action 4 Deliver?

This is where the rubber meets the road for any camera review, and the DJI Osmo Action 4 truly shines. DJI has made significant strides in image and video quality, particularly focusing on addressing some of the common pain points of action cameras, namely low-light performance and color fidelity. At the heart of this improvement lies a new, larger sensor.

Sensor & Low-Light Prowess

The most significant upgrade in the DJI Osmo Action 4 is its 1/1.3-inch sensor. This is a substantial leap from the Action 3’s 1/1.7-inch sensor and even larger than some direct competitors. A larger sensor means bigger pixels, and bigger pixels mean more light capture. The result? Dramatically improved low-light performance. Whether you’re filming at dusk, dawn, indoors, or exploring dimly lit environments, the Action 4 produces cleaner, less noisy footage with greater detail and less artificial brightening. It boasts an equivalent pixel size of 2.4μm, allowing it to capture stunning detail even when light is scarce. This makes it a formidable tool for those who don’t want their adventures to stop when the sun goes down.

Color Science & Dynamic Range

Beyond the sensor, DJI has meticulously refined its color science. The DJI Osmo Action 4 delivers vibrant, natural-looking colors that are remarkably accurate and pleasing to the eye. Gone are the days of overly saturated or washed-out action camera footage. The camera supports a 10-bit D-Log M color mode, offering over a billion colors and a vast dynamic range. This is a game-changer for serious creators who want maximum flexibility in post-production. The ability to capture such rich color information allows for extensive color grading, matching the Action 4’s footage seamlessly with other professional cameras in your workflow. Furthermore, an advanced color temperature sensor ensures accurate white balance, even in complex lighting conditions like underwater or in mixed artificial light, ensuring your footage always looks true to life.

Resolution, Frame Rates, and Codecs

The DJI Osmo Action 4 is a powerhouse when it comes to capturing high-resolution video and impressive frame rates. It supports:

• 4K UHD up to 120fps: Perfect for creating breathtaking slow-motion sequences without sacrificing detail.
• 2.7K up to 120fps: Another excellent option for high-resolution slow-motion.
• 1080p Full HD up to 240fps: Ideal for ultra-slow-motion shots, capturing every nuance of fast-paced action.

This versatility in resolution and frame rate means you can capture anything from cinematic, flowing shots to incredibly detailed, frame-by-frame breakdowns of your most extreme stunts. The camera utilizes efficient H.264 and H.265 codecs, ensuring high-quality footage without excessively large file sizes, which is crucial for storage and editing workflows. The wide 155° ultra-wide FOV (Field of View) ensures you capture more of the action, providing an immersive perspective that puts viewers right in the heart of the moment. This combination of sensor, color science, and recording capabilities places the DJI Osmo Action 4 firmly at the top tier for action camera video quality.

Stabilization & Action-Ready Features: RockSteady & Beyond

What’s a great action camera without equally great stabilization? The DJI Osmo Action 4 doesn’t just meet expectations here; it consistently exceeds them, thanks to DJI’s renowned RockSteady technology and other thoughtful features designed for real-world adventure.

RockSteady 3.0+ and HorizonSteady 4.0

DJI’s electronic image stabilization (EIS) system, RockSteady, has long been a benchmark, and with RockSteady 3.0+, the DJI Osmo Action 4 takes things to another level. Whether you’re mountain biking down a rocky trail, surfing a gnarly wave, or simply running down the street, your footage remains incredibly smooth and professional-looking. It effectively eliminates shakes and jitters, making even the most chaotic scenes appear stable and watchable. This advanced stabilization works across all resolutions and frame rates, ensuring consistent quality no matter how you’re shooting.

Complementing RockSteady is HorizonSteady 4.0. This intelligent feature not only stabilizes your footage but also automatically corrects horizon tilt, keeping your shots perfectly level up to 45° of rotation. Imagine filming a steep incline or a dramatic turn; HorizonSteady ensures your horizon remains locked, creating a much more professional and aesthetically pleasing result. For even more extreme scenarios, HorizonBalancing corrects tilt up to 45°, offering a perfect balance between dynamic movement and a stable horizon. This combination of stabilization technologies means you can focus entirely on your activity, trusting that the Action 4 will deliver silky-smooth, perfectly level footage every time.

Battery Life & Fast Charging

Action cameras are often used in remote locations, making battery life a critical factor. The DJI Osmo Action 4 addresses this with an impressive 1770mAh battery, providing approximately 2.5 hours of continuous 1080p/30fps recording on a single charge. Even when pushing it with 4K/60fps, you can expect around 1 hour and 40 minutes of recording, which is highly competitive in the market. More importantly, it features robust fast-charging capabilities. With the right charger, you can power up to 80% in just 18 minutes, allowing you to quickly get back to capturing moments with minimal downtime. For extended adventures, carrying a few extra batteries and a multi-charger case (like the one often included in combo kits) is a smart move, ensuring you never miss a shot due to a dead battery.

Durability & User-Friendly Design

The DJI Osmo Action 4 is built like a tank, yet handles like a dream. It’s waterproof down to an impressive 18 meters (59 feet) without the need for an additional waterproof case, making it an excellent companion for divers, snorkelers, and water sports enthusiasts. This innate waterproofing adds to its ruggedness and convenience. It’s also designed to withstand temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F), making it suitable for winter sports and cold environments. The lens protector is made from Gorilla Glass, offering superior scratch resistance. Furthermore, DJI has included a quick-switch button on the side, allowing you to rapidly cycle through shooting modes (video, photo, slow-motion, timelapse) without diving into menus. This intuitive design, combined with its robust construction, makes the DJI Osmo Action 4 a truly action-ready camera built for adventure.

User Experience & Software Ecosystem: Intuitive or Intimidating?

A powerful camera is only as good as its user experience. Thankfully, the DJI Osmo Action 4 excels in this area, offering an intuitive interface, excellent audio, and a robust software ecosystem that enhances the creative process rather than complicating it.

Dual Touchscreens & Intuitive UI

As mentioned earlier, the dual full-color touchscreens are a major advantage. The larger 2.25-inch rear screen and the convenient 1.4-inch front screen are both highly responsive, allowing for seamless navigation through menus, quick adjustments to settings, and easy framing of shots. The user interface (UI) is clean, logical, and easy to understand, even for beginners. Swiping left, right, up, or down provides quick access to different modes, playback, and key settings like resolution, frame rate, and stabilization. This straightforward approach means less time fumbling with controls and more time focusing on capturing the action. Voice control is also available, offering hands-free operation in situations where physical interaction might be difficult or unsafe.

Audio Performance & External Mics

While action cameras aren’t typically known for their pristine audio, the DJI Osmo Action 4 offers surprisingly good built-in microphone performance. It features a three-mic stereo setup with wind noise reduction, which significantly improves audio clarity in challenging environments. For vloggers and professional content creators, DJI also provides a USB-C port that supports external microphones. This allows you to connect a high-quality lavalier or shotgun mic, ensuring crystal-clear audio for interviews, commentary, or ambient sounds. This flexibility makes the DJI Osmo Action 4 a viable option for vlogging and other content creation where audio quality is paramount.

The DJI Mimo App & Creative Tools

The DJI Mimo app serves as the central hub for extending the functionality of the DJI Osmo Action 4. Available for both iOS and Android, the app provides a seamless connection to your camera, enabling a host of features:

• Remote Control: Control all camera functions from your smartphone, perfect for tricky angles or group shots.
• Live View: See exactly what your camera sees in real-time, making framing precise.
• Quick Editing: The app includes intuitive editing tools, allowing you to trim clips, add music, and apply filters directly on your phone.
• AI Editor: DJI Mimo’s AI editing function can automatically select highlights and generate short, shareable videos, saving you time.
• Firmware Updates: Easily update your camera’s firmware to access new features and improvements.
• Live Streaming: The Action 4 supports direct live streaming to platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and RTMP, turning your camera into a powerful broadcasting tool for sharing your adventures in real-time.

This integrated ecosystem greatly enhances the user experience, providing a complete solution from capture to share. The accessibility and power of the DJI Mimo app make the DJI Osmo Action 4 not just a camera but a comprehensive content creation platform.

Comparing the Action 4: How Does It Stack Up?

In a crowded market, knowing how the DJI Osmo Action 4 stacks up against its competitors and its predecessor is crucial for making an informed decision. Let’s pit it against some key rivals.

Action 4 vs. Action 3: Is it Worth the Upgrade?

For owners of the DJI Osmo Action 3, the question is whether the Action 4 justifies an upgrade. The core design, including the magnetic quick-release, ruggedness, and dual screens, remains largely similar. However, the DJI Osmo Action 4 brings one critical, game-changing upgrade: the 1/1.3-inch sensor. This larger sensor dramatically improves low-light performance and overall image quality, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. The 10-bit D-Log M color profile also offers more flexibility for professional color grading. If you frequently shoot in low light, demand the best possible image quality, or value the flexibility of 10-bit color, the upgrade to the DJI Osmo Action 4 is definitely worthwhile. For casual users who primarily shoot in bright daylight, the Action 3 remains a very capable camera, but the Action 4 delivers a noticeable leap in image fidelity.

Action 4 vs. GoPro Hero 11/12: A Head-to-Head

The most direct competitor to the DJI Osmo Action 4 is undoubtedly the GoPro Hero series, specifically the Hero 11 Black and Hero 12 Black.

• Sensor Size: The Action 4’s 1/1.3-inch sensor is larger than the Hero 11/12’s 1/1.9-inch sensor. This gives the Action 4 an edge in low-light performance and overall image quality, particularly in shadow detail and noise reduction.
• Color Depth: Both offer 10-bit color (D-Log M for DJI, 10-bit HEVC for GoPro), providing excellent flexibility for post-production.
• Stabilization: DJI’s RockSteady 3.0+ and HorizonSteady are incredibly effective, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with GoPro’s HyperSmooth 5.0/6.0. Both offer exceptionally smooth footage.
• Waterproofing: The Action 4 is waterproof to 18m out of the box, whereas the Hero 11/12 are waterproof to 10m. This gives the Action 4 a significant advantage for deeper dives without an external case.
• Dual Screens: Both cameras feature dual full-color screens, making them equally convenient for vlogging and framing.
• Battery Life: The Action 4 offers competitive battery life, especially with its fast-charging capabilities. GoPro’s Enduro battery, standard in newer models, also offers excellent cold-weather performance.
• Magnetic Mount: DJI’s magnetic quick-release mount is a unique selling point, offering unparalleled ease of use compared to GoPro’s traditional finger mounts.

In essence, the DJI Osmo Action 4 is a very strong contender, often outperforming GoPro in low-light scenarios due to its larger sensor and offering a more convenient mounting system. GoPro, however, has a more established accessories ecosystem and slightly higher maximum resolutions (e.g., 5.3K for GoPro). The choice often comes down to specific needs: if low-light performance and ease of mounting are top priorities, the Action 4 is a compelling choice. If you need the absolute highest resolution or are deeply invested in the GoPro ecosystem, GoPro might still appeal.

Who is the DJI Osmo Action 4 For? Pros, Cons & Verdict

Having thoroughly explored the capabilities of the DJI Osmo Action 4, let’s distill who this camera is best suited for, and what its main strengths and weaknesses are.

Target Audience

The DJI Osmo Action 4 is an ideal choice for a wide range of users:

• Adventure Sports Enthusiasts: Its ruggedness, deep waterproofing, and superior stabilization make it perfect for skiing, snowboarding, surfing, mountain biking, climbing, and any other high-octane activity.
• Vloggers and Content Creators: The dual touchscreens, excellent audio capabilities (especially with external mic support), and 10-bit D-Log M color profile provide professional-grade tools for creating engaging content.
• Travelers and Explorers: Its ease of use, long battery life, and ability to capture stunning footage in diverse environments make it a fantastic companion for documenting journeys.
• Underwater Videographers: The 18m waterproof rating out of the box is a significant advantage for casual to serious underwater filming.
• Anyone Seeking High-Quality Low-Light Performance: If you’re tired of grainy, noisy footage from other action cameras when the light dims, the Action 4’s larger sensor is a game-changer.

Pros of the DJI Osmo Action 4

• Exceptional Low-Light Performance: Thanks to the large 1/1.3-inch sensor, it sets a new standard for action cameras in challenging light conditions.
• Superb Image & Video Quality: Rich, accurate 10-bit D-Log M color, excellent dynamic range, and sharp detail up to 4K/120fps.
• Class-Leading Stabilization: RockSteady 3.0+ and HorizonSteady 4.0 deliver incredibly smooth, level footage.
• Deep Waterproofing: 18 meters (59 feet) without a case is impressive and highly convenient.
• Magnetic Quick-Release Design: The fastest, most secure, and most user-friendly mounting system available.
• Dual Full-Color Touchscreens: Intuitive and essential for vlogging and versatile shooting.
• Fast Charging: Get back to 80% battery in just 18 minutes.
• Robust Build Quality: Built to withstand extreme conditions and temperatures.
• DJI Mimo App: Offers seamless control, editing, and live streaming capabilities.

Cons of the DJI Osmo Action 4

• Price: While competitive, it’s a premium action camera, and the cost can be a barrier for some.
• No GPS Built-in: Unlike some competitors, it lacks integrated GPS for speed and location data overlays.
• No 5K/6K Resolution: While 4K/120fps is excellent, some competitors offer higher maximum resolutions (though often with compromises).
• Field of View: The 155° FOV is great, but some users might prefer even wider options available on other cameras.

Verdict

The DJI Osmo Action 4 is more than just an iterative upgrade; it’s a significant leap forward for action cameras, particularly in low-light performance and overall image quality. DJI has successfully refined its winning formula, combining an industry-leading sensor with robust stabilization, intelligent design, and a user-friendly experience. It addresses many of the common criticisms of action cameras, delivering footage that is not only visually stunning but also consistently stable and rich in color. For anyone serious about capturing their adventures with professional-grade quality, especially in diverse lighting conditions, the DJI Osmo Action 4 is an outstanding choice and arguably one of the best action cameras currently on the market. It represents excellent value for its performance and feature set, making it a highly recommended piece of gear for any adventurer or content creator.

Key Specifications at a Glance: DJI Osmo Action 4

Here’s a quick overview of the essential specifications that make the DJI Osmo Action 4 a powerhouse:

Feature	Specification
Sensor Size	1/1.3-inch CMOS
Pixel Size	2.4μm equivalent
Max Video Resolution	4K (3840×2160) @ 120fps
Max Photo Resolution	10MP (3648×2736)
Field of View (FOV)	155°
Stabilization	RockSteady 3.0+, HorizonSteady 4.0, HorizonBalancing
Waterproof Depth	18m (59ft) without case
Display	Front: 1.4-inch; Rear: 2.25-inch (Dual Touchscreens)
Battery Capacity	1770 mAh
Max Battery Life	Approx. 2.5 hours (1080p/30fps)
Fast Charging	80% in 18 minutes
Color Mode	Standard, D-Log M (10-bit)
Operating Temperature	-20°C to 45°C (-4°F to 113°F)
Weight	Approx. 145g

Conclusion: The DJI Osmo Action 4 – Your Ultimate Adventure Companion

After a thorough exploration in this dji osmo action 4 camera review, it’s clear that DJI has delivered a phenomenal piece of technology. The DJI Osmo Action 4 isn’t just another action camera; it’s a statement of intent from a company committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in a compact, rugged form factor. Its standout feature, the larger 1/1.3-inch sensor, truly transforms its low-light performance and overall image quality, setting it apart from many competitors. This, combined with its robust 10-bit D-Log M color, means your footage will not only look incredible but also offer immense flexibility in post-production.

Beyond the impressive sensor, the Action 4 offers a complete package designed for the most demanding users. The unparalleled RockSteady 3.0+ and HorizonSteady 4.0 stabilization ensure your most intense moments are captured with cinematic smoothness. The deep 18m waterproofing straight out of the box, coupled with the ingenious magnetic quick-release system, makes it incredibly versatile and user-friendly in any environment. Add to that the dual touchscreens, fast charging, and the comprehensive DJI Mimo app, and you have a camera that’s ready for anything you throw at it.

If you’re an adventurer, a vlogger, a sports enthusiast, or simply someone who wants to capture life’s incredible moments with exceptional quality and reliability, the DJI Osmo Action 4 is an investment you won’t regret. It delivers a superior user experience and stunning visual results, making it the ultimate tool for documenting your world. It truly lives up to the hype and cements its position as a top-tier contender in the action camera market. Go out there, capture your story, and let the DJI Osmo Action 4 be your witness!

Frequently Asked Questions

How good is the video quality, especially in low light, from the DJI Osmo Action 4?

The DJI Osmo Action 4’s larger 1/1.3-inch sensor significantly boosts low-light performance, capturing more detail and natural colors even after dusk. Videos are consistently sharp and vibrant across various lighting conditions, making it a highly versatile option for any adventure.

What stabilization technologies does the DJI Osmo Action 4 camera use, and how well do they work?

The DJI Osmo Action 4 camera features RockSteady 3.0+ for incredibly smooth footage in dynamic scenarios and HorizonSteady for maintaining a level horizon, even when the camera rotates. These technologies combine to deliver buttery-smooth, professional-looking video, even during intense activities.

What is the battery life like on the DJI Osmo Action 4, and does it support fast charging?

The camera offers impressive battery endurance, capable of recording extended periods, even in cold temperatures, ensuring you don’t miss key moments. Yes, it supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly top up the battery to 80% in just 18 minutes and get back to shooting with minimal downtime.

How durable and waterproof is the DJI Osmo Action 4 for extreme sports and diving?

The DJI Osmo Action 4 is built incredibly tough and is natively waterproof down to an impressive 18 meters (59 feet) without the need for an additional waterproof case. Its robust design and extreme cold temperature performance make it an ideal companion for rigorous adventures, from underwater exploration to high-impact sports.

What are the major upgrades of the DJI Osmo Action 4 compared to the Action 3?

The primary upgrades include a significantly larger 1/1.3-inch sensor, which provides superior low-light performance and better dynamic range, especially in challenging conditions. It also features improved color science with 10-bit D-Log M, offering more flexibility and richer colors in post-production.

Are the dual touchscreens on the DJI Osmo Action 4 easy to use, and what benefits do they offer?

Yes, the dual full-color touchscreens on the DJI Osmo Action 4, one on the front and one on the back, are highly responsive and intuitive. They allow for easy framing and control whether you’re shooting from the front or behind the camera, significantly enhancing the overall user experience and versatility.