new dji action camera

The world of action cameras is a vibrant, competitive arena where innovation reigns supreme. For years, adventurers, filmmakers, and content creators have relied on these compact powerhouses to capture life's most thrilling moments. From scaling mountain peaks to diving into the deep blue, the demand for rugged, high-performance recording devices has only grown. And when it comes to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in portable videography, one name consistently stands out: DJI.

DJI, renowned for its industry-leading drones and gimbals, has steadily carved out a significant niche in the action camera market with its Osmo Action series. Each iteration brings substantial improvements, challenging established players and offering users a compelling blend of cutting-edge technology and intuitive design. The anticipation for the new DJI action camera is always palpable, as enthusiasts eagerly await what advancements the tech giant will introduce next to elevate their creative pursuits.

This comprehensive guide dives deep into the latest offering from DJI, exploring every facet of its design, performance, and capabilities. Whether you're a seasoned adrenaline junkie, a professional vlogger, or simply looking to capture your family adventures with unparalleled clarity, understanding the prowess of the new DJI action camera is essential. Get ready to discover how DJI is once again redefining what an action camera can be.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

What's the name of the new DJI action camera?

It's officially called the DJI Action 4, building on the success of its predecessors with significant upgrades.

When was the new DJI Action camera released?

The new DJI Action camera officially launched on July 25, 2023, and is available for purchase right now!

How much does the new DJI Action camera cost?

The DJI Action 4 starts at $299 for the Standard Combo, offering a great entry point into its powerful features. An Adventure Combo is also available for $399.

What's the biggest improvement with this new DJI action camera?

A major highlight is its new 1/1.3-inch sensor, which dramatically improves low-light performance and dynamic range, making your footage look stunning in all conditions.

Is the new DJI Action 4 waterproof without a case?

Yes, the new DJI Action camera is impressively waterproof straight out of the box, capable of diving down to 18 meters (59 feet) without needing any additional housing.

Unveiling the Powerhouse: What Makes the New DJI Action Camera Stand Out?

DJI’s latest entry into the action camera segment, the DJI Osmo Action 4, isn't just an incremental upgrade; it’s a meticulously engineered piece of hardware designed to address critical user feedback and elevate the action camera experience. Building on the robust foundation of its predecessors, the Action 4 focuses heavily on core performance areas that matter most to users: image quality, stabilization, and battery life, especially in challenging conditions.

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One of the most significant leaps forward with the new DJI action camera is its enhanced sensor. The Action 4 features a larger 1/1.3-inch sensor, a substantial upgrade that directly impacts image quality, particularly in low-light environments. This larger sensor, coupled with a wide f/2.8 aperture and 2.4μm equivalent pixel size, allows for more light gathering, resulting in cleaner, more detailed footage with reduced noise. This means your sunrise hikes, evening cityscapes, or dimly lit indoor vlogs will exhibit a level of clarity and vibrancy previously unattainable in an action camera of this size.

Furthermore, DJI has focused on improving its signature D-Log M color mode. With 10-bit & D-Log M support, the Action 4 offers over one billion colors and an ultra-wide dynamic range, providing unparalleled flexibility for post-production color grading. This is a game-changer for professional videographers who demand maximum control over their footage, allowing them to achieve a cinematic look that truly stands out. The combination of a superior sensor and advanced color profiles solidifies the Action 4’s position as a serious contender for professional-grade content creation, making the new DJI action camera a true powerhouse.

A Legacy of Innovation and Rugged Design

• Magnetic Quick-Release Design: One of DJI’s most praised innovations, the magnetic quick-release system, makes a triumphant return. This allows for effortless and secure attachment to a wide array of mounts, letting you switch perspectives in mere seconds.
• Extreme Temperature Resistance: The Action 4 is built for the harshest environments. Its enhanced battery performance allows for continuous recording for over 2.5 hours, even in temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F), making it an ideal companion for winter sports enthusiasts.
• Enhanced Waterproofing: Ready for underwater adventures, the Action 4 boasts a native waterproof rating of up to 18 meters (59 feet) without needing an additional case, a significant improvement over many competitors.

Beyond the Hype: Deep Dive into Key Features of the DJI Action 4

The true measure of any action camera lies in its features and how they translate into real-world performance. The new DJI action camera is packed with an array of functionalities designed to simplify the capture process while maximizing creative output. Let's break down some of its most compelling aspects.

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Unparalleled Image Quality and Versatile Shooting Modes

The DJI Osmo Action 4 offers an impressive range of video resolutions and frame rates, ensuring you can capture every moment with breathtaking detail and smoothness:

• 4K UHD Video: Capture stunning 4K video at up to 120 frames per second (fps), perfect for high-resolution footage and impressive slow-motion effects.
• 2.7K and 1080p: Lower resolutions are available at even higher frame rates (up to 240fps in 1080p), providing super slow-motion capabilities for dynamic action shots.
• Ultra-Wide 155° FOV: The expansive field of view ensures you capture more of the scene, immersing viewers in the action.
• Color Temperature Sensor: This dedicated sensor intelligently adjusts white balance and exposure, even in complex lighting conditions or underwater, ensuring accurate and vibrant colors without manual tweaking.

Rock-Solid Stabilization for Every Adventure

DJI's reputation for world-class stabilization is evident in the Action 4. Its advanced electronic image stabilization (EIS) systems are designed to deliver incredibly smooth footage, no matter how intense the activity.

• RockSteady 3.0: This powerful EIS algorithm eliminates camera shake in all directions, making your footage look buttery smooth even during high-impact sports. RockSteady 3.0+ further enhances stability for even more demanding scenarios.
• HorizonSteady: This intelligent feature corrects horizontal tilt at any angle, ensuring your footage remains level regardless of how the camera is mounted or oriented.
• HorizonBalancing: For situations where HorizonSteady might be overkill, HorizonBalancing corrects horizontal tilt up to ±45°, offering a perfect balance between stabilization and natural motion.

Enduring Power and Intuitive Dual Touchscreens

Battery life is crucial for an action camera, and the new DJI action camera excels here, especially in challenging climates.

• Extended Battery Life: The Action 4’s battery offers up to 160 minutes of recording time, ensuring you capture more of your adventure without interruption.
• Fast Charging: Get back to action quickly with fast-charging capabilities that can boost your battery to 80% in just 18 minutes.
• Dual Full-Color Touchscreens: The Action 4 features both front and rear full-color touchscreens, enabling easy control and viewing whether you're behind the camera or in front of it. The hydrophobic coating ensures they remain responsive even with wet hands.

Real-World Performance: Putting the New DJI Action Camera to the Test

Theoretical specifications are one thing; how a camera performs in the wild is another. The new DJI action camera truly shines when put through its paces in various real-world scenarios, proving its versatility and robustness for a wide range of content creators.

Extreme Sports and Adventure

For thrill-seekers, the Action 4 is an undeniable companion. Imagine tearing down a mountain bike trail; RockSteady 3.0+ works tirelessly to iron out every bump and tremor, delivering footage that feels incredibly stable, almost as if it were shot on a professional gimbal. When skiing down a snowy slope, the camera’s cold-resistant battery ensures it won’t power down unexpectedly, and the magnetic quick-release allows for rapid transitions between helmet, chest, or pole mounts, capturing diverse perspectives effortlessly. The vivid color rendition, especially in dynamic outdoor environments, makes footage pop, showcasing the true beauty of your surroundings.

Travel Vlogging and Daily Life

Beyond extreme sports, the Action 4 excels as a travel and daily vlogging camera. Its compact size makes it easy to carry anywhere, and the dual touchscreens are a godsend for vlogging. You can easily frame yourself perfectly using the front screen, ensuring you're always in shot. The intuitive interface means less fiddling with settings and more focus on capturing the moment. Low-light performance is a standout here; capturing the vibrant buzz of a night market or the subtle hues of a sunset becomes genuinely impressive, delivering usable and aesthetically pleasing footage without excessive noise.

Underwater Exploration

With its native 18-meter waterproofing, the Action 4 opens up a world of underwater exploration without the need for additional bulky cases for most casual dives. The dedicated color temperature sensor is particularly effective here, automatically correcting for the greenish or bluish casts often found in underwater footage. This means your snorkeling videos or shallow dives will have more natural, vibrant colors directly out of the camera, significantly reducing the need for extensive post-production color correction. For deeper dives, dedicated diving accessories further extend its capabilities, allowing for professional-grade underwater cinematography.

Audio Performance and Creative Tools

Audio is often overlooked in action cameras, but the Action 4 features multiple microphones for enhanced sound capture, even in windy conditions. For more professional audio, the USB-C port supports external microphone connectivity. Beyond basic recording, the new DJI action camera includes creative modes like Time Lapse, Hyperlapse, and Slow Motion, allowing you to experiment with different storytelling techniques. The easy-to-use interface ensures that even beginners can quickly grasp these features and start producing dynamic, engaging content.

Accessories and Ecosystem: Maximizing Your DJI Action 4 Experience

A great action camera is only as good as the ecosystem that supports it. DJI has built a comprehensive range of accessories and a powerful software suite to ensure you get the most out of your new DJI action camera. These additions enhance usability, extend creative possibilities, and protect your investment.

Official DJI Accessories

DJI offers a diverse range of accessories designed specifically for the Action 4, each engineered for seamless integration and robust performance:

• Magnetic Ball-Joint Adapter Mount: Provides flexible mounting options with a sticky base, allowing for quick angle adjustments.
• Extension Rod Kit: Perfect for selfies, vlogging, and unique high-angle shots, often including a remote control for easy operation.
• Chest Strap Mount & Helmet Mount: Essential for POV (Point-Of-View) footage during action-packed activities.
• Floating Handle: Ensures your camera stays afloat if dropped in water, an indispensable tool for water sports.
• Battery Case with Power Bank Functionality: Not only stores and charges multiple batteries but can also act as a power bank for your other devices.
• Diving Kit: For adventurers pushing beyond the native 18m waterproof limit, this kit includes a waterproof case, buoyancy rod, and anti-fog inserts.

The magnetic quick-release system is the backbone of this accessory ecosystem. It allows users to snap the camera into place with confidence and detach it in an instant, making transitions between mounts incredibly fluid. This efficiency is a massive time-saver for content creators who need to adapt quickly to changing shooting scenarios.

Third-Party Compatibility and Creative Freedom

While DJI's official accessories are top-notch, the Action 4 also benefits from a robust third-party accessory market. Standard action camera mounts and adapters often work with the Action 4's universal mounting system, expanding your options even further. This flexibility means you can customize your setup to perfectly suit your specific needs, whether it's specialized lighting, advanced audio solutions, or unique mounting configurations.

DJI Mimo App: Your Mobile Editing Suite

The DJI Mimo app is the brains behind the brawn, serving as your control center and editing suite for the new DJI action camera. Available for iOS and Android, the app offers:

• Remote Control: Control all camera settings, view a live feed, and start/stop recording directly from your smartphone.
• AI Editing: Automatic editing tools and templates help you create polished videos with minimal effort. The LightCut app, designed for DJI cameras, offers one-tap editing and various templates, making post-production accessible to everyone.
• Quick Transfer: Easily transfer footage from your Action 4 to your phone for quick sharing on social media.
• Firmware Updates: Keep your camera up-to-date with the latest features and performance enhancements via the app.

This seamless integration between hardware and software ensures a smooth workflow, from capture to sharing, solidifying the Action 4's appeal to both casual users and professional content creators.

DJI Action 4 vs. The Competition: Why Choose DJI?

In a market dominated by a few key players, the new DJI action camera goes head-to-head with some formidable rivals. The most direct comparison is often with GoPro, the long-standing leader in the action camera segment. Let's explore where the DJI Osmo Action 4 stands out and why it might be the preferred choice for many users.

DJI Action 4 vs. GoPro Hero 12 Black

The GoPro Hero 12 Black is the Action 4's primary competitor, and both cameras offer incredible capabilities. However, DJI has made strategic choices that differentiate its offering:

• Sensor Size and Low-Light Performance: The Action 4’s larger 1/1.3-inch sensor generally outperforms the Hero 12’s 1/1.9-inch sensor in low-light conditions. This translates to cleaner, less noisy footage when shooting in challenging lighting, which is a significant advantage for vlogging, indoor use, or evening adventures.
• Color Science: DJI's D-Log M 10-bit color profile offers an incredibly rich and flexible color grading experience. Many users find DJI's color science to produce a more natural and cinematic look out of the box, particularly for skin tones and environmental colors.
• Magnetic Quick-Release System: This is arguably one of DJI's biggest differentiators. The magnetic mounting system is faster, more secure, and significantly more convenient than GoPro's traditional finger mounts, allowing for quicker transitions between accessories.
• Native Waterproofing: The Action 4’s native 18-meter (59 ft) waterproofing is superior to the Hero 12’s 10-meter (33 ft) rating without a dive case. This means greater freedom and less worry for casual underwater activities.
• Battery Performance in Cold Weather: DJI has specifically engineered the Action 4’s battery for exceptional performance in freezing temperatures, a crucial advantage for winter sports enthusiasts.
• Dual Touchscreens: While GoPro also offers dual screens, DJI’s implementation with both being full-color and responsive is a significant user experience boost for vlogging and self-shooting.

Price and Value Proposition

Often, the new DJI action camera offers a competitive price point, sometimes slightly undercutting its direct competitor while providing features that are either superior or offer a more streamlined user experience. When considering the robust build, exceptional low-light performance, intuitive magnetic mounting, and extensive accessory ecosystem, the Action 4 presents a compelling value proposition for anyone seeking a top-tier action camera.

Target Audience

While both cameras cater to a broad audience, the DJI Action 4 might be particularly appealing to:

• Vloggers and Content Creators: The excellent low-light, natural color science, and dual screens are ideal for creating professional-looking vlogs and cinematic content.
• Winter Sports Enthusiasts: Unmatched cold-weather battery performance.
• Underwater Adventurers: Superior native waterproofing.
• Users Prioritizing Convenience: The magnetic mounting system simplifies setup and transitions.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to specific needs and preferences. However, the new DJI action camera has undeniably established itself as a leading choice, offering distinct advantages that make it a powerful alternative in the action camera landscape.

Is the New DJI Action Camera Right for You? Price, Value, and Final Verdict

Deciding on the right action camera involves weighing features against personal needs and budget. The new DJI action camera, the DJI Osmo Action 4, has presented a strong case for itself as a top-tier contender. Let's summarize its pros and cons and help you determine if it's the perfect fit for your adventures.

Key Advantages of the DJI Action 4

• Superior Low-Light Performance: The larger 1/1.3-inch sensor truly makes a difference in challenging lighting conditions, delivering cleaner, more vibrant footage.
• Exceptional Color Science: With 10-bit D-Log M, the camera captures an impressive dynamic range and offers extensive flexibility for professional color grading. Even straight out of the camera, colors are natural and pleasing.
• Unrivaled Magnetic Mounting System: The magnetic quick-release design is incredibly convenient, allowing for lightning-fast transitions between mounts without compromising security.
• Robust Stabilization: RockSteady 3.0+ and HorizonSteady deliver incredibly smooth, stable footage across all types of action.
• Extreme Durability: Native 18m waterproofing and exceptional cold-weather battery performance make it ideal for diverse and harsh environments.
• Dual Responsive Touchscreens: Both front and rear screens are full-color, intuitive, and highly responsive, enhancing the user experience for both vlogging and regular shooting.

Considerations

• Price Point: While competitive, the DJI Osmo Action 4 is a premium action camera, and its price reflects its advanced features.
• Limited Still Photography: While capable, its primary strength lies in video. If high-resolution still photography is your main priority, a dedicated mirrorless or DSLR might be a better choice.
• Ecosystem Lock-in: While the DJI ecosystem is excellent, some users might prefer the broader range of older third-party accessories compatible with the more universally accepted GoPro mounting system (though DJI offers adapters).

Who is the DJI Action 4 For?

The new DJI action camera is an excellent choice for a wide array of users:

• Adventure Sports Enthusiasts: Bikers, skiers, snowboarders, surfers, and divers will appreciate its ruggedness, stabilization, and specific performance enhancements (cold weather, waterproofing).
• Vloggers and Content Creators: The fantastic low-light capabilities, natural color science, and dual screens make it a powerful tool for high-quality vlogs and cinematic shots.
• Travelers: Its compact size, extended battery life, and easy-to-use interface make it perfect for documenting trips without fuss.
• Anyone Seeking Top-Tier Performance: If you demand the best video quality, stabilization, and user experience from an action camera, the Action 4 delivers.

Value and Final Thoughts

In terms of overall value, the DJI Osmo Action 4 offers a compelling package. It doesn't just match the competition; in several critical areas, it surpasses it. The focus on core image quality, stabilization, and user convenience, backed by DJI's robust ecosystem, makes it a highly attractive investment for anyone serious about capturing their adventures in stunning detail. The enhancements in low-light performance and color science, in particular, elevate the new DJI action camera beyond a mere action camera, positioning it as a versatile mini-cinema camera.

It's clear that the new DJI action camera is more than just a piece of tech; it's a gateway to capturing and sharing your world in ways that were once thought impossible. With its innovative features and uncompromising performance, the DJI Osmo Action 4 is not just keeping pace with the industry; it's setting new benchmarks.

DJI Action 4 Key Specifications at a Glance

To help you quickly grasp the core capabilities of the new DJI action camera, here’s a summary of its crucial specifications:

Conclusion: Your Next Adventure Awaits with the New DJI Action Camera

The release of the new DJI action camera, the DJI Osmo Action 4, marks a significant milestone in the evolution of portable videography. DJI has meticulously crafted a device that not only meets the demands of modern content creators but also pushes the boundaries of what users can expect from an action camera. From its class-leading low-light performance, thanks to the larger sensor, to its unparalleled magnetic quick-release system, every feature is designed to enhance your ability to capture life's most thrilling and poignant moments.

Whether you're carving through fresh powder, diving into crystal-clear waters, or simply documenting your daily adventures, the Action 4 delivers professional-grade footage with remarkable ease. Its robust build, intuitive controls, and comprehensive ecosystem of accessories ensure that you're always ready, no matter where your journey takes you. The vibrant colors, rock-solid stabilization, and impressive battery life, even in extreme conditions, make the new DJI action camera a reliable and powerful companion for every creative endeavor.

In a crowded market, the DJI Osmo Action 4 stands tall, offering a distinct blend of innovation, performance, and user-centric design. It’s more than just a camera; it's a tool that empowers you to tell your story with stunning clarity and dynamic impact. So, if you're looking to elevate your content, experience unparalleled versatility, and embrace the future of action capture, the new DJI action camera is undoubtedly a choice that promises to exceed your expectations. Get ready to capture the extraordinary.