DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera with Gimbal Review Best Features and Performance

The DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera with Gimbal delivers unmatched stabilization and cinematic 4K video in a rugged, compact design. With its 3-axis mechanical gimbal, it eliminates shake in high-motion scenarios, outperforming standard action cams in smoothness and clarity. Packed with pro features like HDR, 8x slow motion, and intuitive touch controls, it’s the ultimate tool for creators who demand both portability and precision.

Key Takeaways

• Superior stabilization: The built-in gimbal ensures ultra-smooth footage in any motion-heavy scenario.
• 4K clarity: Crisp, vibrant 4K video captures stunning detail in diverse lighting conditions.
• Compact design: Lightweight and portable, perfect for on-the-go filming and travel adventures.
• Quick charging: Minimizes downtime with fast recharge times for extended shooting sessions.
• Easy controls: Intuitive interface and one-handed operation simplify professional-grade videography.
• Versatile mounting: Multiple mounting options adapt to bikes, helmets, and handheld use effortlessly.

Why the DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera with Gimbal Stands Out in a Crowded Market

Let’s be real: the world of action cameras is crowded. GoPro, Insta360, and a dozen lesser-known brands all promise the same thing—crisp 4K footage, rugged durability, and smooth stabilization. But when I first picked up the DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera with Gimbal, something felt different. It wasn’t just the sleek design or the reassuring weight in my hand. It was the quiet confidence of a tool built for creators who care about the details—the kind of camera that doesn’t just capture moments but elevates them.

I’ve tested action cameras in everything from alpine ski runs to chaotic street festivals, and I’ve learned that specs on paper don’t always translate to real-world magic. The DJI Osmo 4K with gimbal, however, bridges that gap. It’s not perfect (no camera is), but it nails the fundamentals while throwing in a few surprises. Whether you’re a vlogger documenting your travels, an adventure athlete, or a parent chasing kids through a park, this camera has features that feel like they were designed with you in mind. Let’s dive into what makes it a standout—and where it stumbles.

Unboxing and First Impressions: What You Get (and What You’ll Love)

When the DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera arrived, the unboxing experience set the tone. Unlike cheaper action cameras that feel like they’ll crack if you breathe on them, this one feels premium. The camera body is compact but substantial, with a grippy rubberized texture. The included gimbal stabilizer is a separate unit—a design choice that’s both a pro and a con (more on that later).

What’s in the Box?

• DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera: 1/1.3-inch sensor, 12MP, 4K/60fps recording
• 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilizer: Attachable via quick-release mount
• Two Batteries: 1300mAh each (DJI claims 160 mins per battery)
• Charging Hub: Charges two batteries simultaneously
• USB-C Cable: For data transfer and charging
• Quick-Release Mount: For attaching to helmets, bikes, etc.
• Protective Case: Water-resistant up to 18m (without gimbal)

First-Time Setup: Simple, But Not Flawless

Pairing the camera with the DJI Mimo app was mostly smooth. The app guides you through firmware updates and basic settings. But here’s a tip: update the firmware before your first shoot. I skipped this step and spent 10 minutes troubleshooting why the gimbal wasn’t responding. Once updated, everything clicked into place. The camera powers on instantly, and the touchscreen (2.26 inches, 720×720 resolution) is responsive—though I still prefer physical buttons for quick adjustments in the field.

The Gimbal: A Game-Changer (Literally)

The 3-axis gimbal is the star of the show. Unlike electronic image stabilization (EIS) in other action cameras, this is mechanical stabilization. That means it physically adjusts the camera’s position to counteract shakes, not just crop and digitally smooth the footage. The difference is night and day. I tested it while mountain biking—a shaky, jolty ride that usually turns my footage into a blur. With the gimbal, the horizon stayed level, even on rocky descents. It’s like having a tiny robot cameraperson following you.

Performance in Action: 4K Video, Low-Light, and Stabilization

Let’s talk about the real test: performance. The DJI Osmo 4K promises 4K/60fps video, a 1/1.3-inch sensor, and mechanical stabilization. Does it deliver? Mostly—but with caveats.

4K Video Quality: Crisp, but Not GoPro-Level

The 4K footage is sharp and detailed, especially in daylight. Colors are vibrant without being oversaturated (a common issue with action cams). I filmed a sunset kayaking trip, and the camera handled the dynamic range well—no blown-out highlights or crushed shadows. However, compared to the GoPro Hero 12 Black (with its 1-inch sensor), the DJI’s 1/1.3-inch sensor struggles slightly in low light. At dusk, the footage gets a bit grainy, and noise becomes noticeable. For most users, this won’t be a dealbreaker, but low-light purists might want to look elsewhere.

Low-Light Performance: A Mixed Bag

DJI’s Night Mode (available in 1080p) uses a longer exposure to brighten scenes. It works—but not perfectly. I tested it in a dimly lit bar. The footage was brighter, but motion blur was an issue. A friend dancing looked like a smeared watercolor painting. For static scenes (e.g., a night market with slow-moving crowds), it’s great. For action? Stick to well-lit environments.

Stabilization: The Gimbal’s Magic

This is where the DJI Osmo 4K shines. The 3-axis gimbal eliminates shakes, jitters, and even minor bumps. I ran with the camera in hand (no tripod, no mount), and the footage looked like it was shot on a dolly. The gimbal also has a Sport Mode for faster movements, which I used while skiing. It kept up with my turns and jumps, though it occasionally overcorrected, creating a slight “whipping” effect. Still, it’s the best stabilization I’ve seen in an action camera under $500.

Audio: Surprisingly Good (But Bring a Mic)

Built-in mics are usually an afterthought on action cams, but DJI included a dual-microphone setup with noise reduction. I recorded a hiking trip, and the audio captured birdsong, wind, and my voice clearly. That said, wind noise is still a problem. DJI sells a Wind Noise Reduction Filter (sold separately), which helps—but for pro-grade audio, invest in an external mic.

Design and Usability: Where DJI Nails (and Misses) the Details

The DJI Osmo 4K is a joy to use—when everything works as intended. But there are quirks that can frustrate.

Build Quality: Rugged, But Gimbal Adds Bulk

The camera body is IP68-rated, meaning it’s dustproof and waterproof up to 18m (59ft) without a case. The gimbal, however, isn’t waterproof. You can’t submerge it, which limits underwater use. For snorkeling or shallow diving, it’s fine—but don’t take it scuba diving. The gimbal also adds bulk. The camera alone is pocket-sized, but with the gimbal attached, it’s about 30% larger. Not a dealbreaker, but worth noting if you’re used to the GoPro’s compact design.

Touchscreen vs. Buttons: A Balancing Act

The touchscreen is intuitive for menu navigation, but physical buttons rule in the field. I missed having a dedicated record button on the side (like GoPro’s). Instead, you tap the screen or use the DJI Mimo app. This gets tricky with gloves on—I had to remove mine during a winter shoot. The power button doubles as a mode switcher (video, photo, slow-mo), which is handy but takes time to master.

Battery Life: Real-World Numbers

DJI claims 160 minutes per battery. In practice, I got 120-140 minutes of continuous 4K/30fps recording (with stabilization on). Using 4K/60fps or the gimbal’s Sport Mode drains it faster—closer to 90 minutes. The charging hub is a lifesaver. I charged both batteries overnight and never ran out of power on a full-day shoot. Pro tip: carry a USB-C power bank for on-the-go charging.

Mounting Options: Versatile, But Gimbal Limits Some Uses

The quick-release mount works with all standard action camera accessories (chest straps, helmet mounts, etc.). But the gimbal’s size means it won’t fit in some tight spots. For example, I couldn’t mount it to my bike’s handlebar (too bulky), but the camera alone worked fine. If you plan to use the gimbal, stick to open mounts (tripods, chest straps, or handheld).

Smart Features and App Integration: Where DJI Outshines the Competition

DJI’s ecosystem is where the Osmo 4K truly excels. The DJI Mimo app isn’t just a remote—it’s a creative toolbox.

DJI Mimo App: Your Creative Sidekick

The app connects via Wi-Fi/Bluetooth and offers:

• Remote Control: Adjust settings, start/stop recording, and switch modes
• Live Preview: See what the camera sees on your phone
• Auto Framing: Keeps subjects centered (great for solo vloggers)
• Quick Editing: Trim clips, add music, and share directly to social media

I used the app to film a time-lapse of a sunrise. I set the interval, hit record, and walked away. The app even sends notifications when the battery is low or the memory card is full.

Smart Shooting Modes: Fun and Practical

The Osmo 4K has several standout modes:

• HorizonSteady: Keeps the horizon level even if you rotate the camera 360°
• Hyperlapse: Combines time-lapse with motion (e.g., a moving car)
• Slow Motion: 1080p at 240fps (great for action shots)
• AI Editor: Automatically selects clips, adds transitions, and suggests music

The AI Editor saved me hours of editing. I filmed a hiking trip, imported the clips to the app, and let the AI create a 2-minute highlight reel. It wasn’t perfect (it cut a great shot of a waterfall), but it was a solid starting point.

Third-Party Integration: Limited but Growing

You can’t use the camera as a webcam (unlike some GoPros), but DJI is adding more integrations. The camera works with Zhiyun’s Weebill gimbals (for cinematic shots) and supports RTMP streaming (for live broadcasts). Not essential for most users, but nice for creators.

Comparisons and Value: How It Stacks Up

Let’s be honest: the DJI Osmo 4K isn’t the only 4K action camera with a gimbal. How does it compare to rivals?

DJI Osmo 4K vs. GoPro Hero 12 Black

• Stabilization: DJI’s gimbal > GoPro’s HyperSmooth 6.0
• Video Quality: GoPro (1-inch sensor) > DJI (1/1.3-inch sensor)
• Low-Light: GoPro wins
• Price: DJI ($349) is $100 cheaper than GoPro ($449)

Verdict: The DJI wins for stabilization and value. The GoPro wins for low-light and overall image quality.

DJI Osmo 4K vs. Insta360 Ace Pro

• Stabilization Insta360’s FlowState
• Low-Light: Insta360 (1/1.3-inch sensor + AI denoising) > DJI
• Design: Insta360’s flip screen > DJI’s fixed screen
• Price: Both are $349

Verdict: The DJI is better for stabilization and battery life. The Insta360 is better for low-light and vlogging.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $349, the DJI Osmo 4K is a solid value—especially if stabilization is your priority. The included gimbal would cost $100+ as an add-on for other cameras. For vloggers, travelers, and action enthusiasts, it’s a no-brainer. But if you shoot mostly in low light or need a webcam, consider alternatives.

Data Table: DJI Osmo 4K vs. Key Competitors

Feature	DJI Osmo 4K	GoPro Hero 12 Black	Insta360 Ace Pro
Max Video	4K/60fps	5.3K/60fps	4K/120fps
Sensor Size	1/1.3-inch	1-inch	1/1.3-inch
Stabilization	3-axis gimbal	HyperSmooth 6.0	FlowState
Waterproof	18m (camera only)	10m (with case)	10m (with case)
Battery Life	160 mins	120 mins	100 mins
Price	$349	$449	$349

Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera with Gimbal?

After weeks of testing, here’s my take: The DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera with Gimbal is a near-perfect blend of innovation and practicality. It’s not the best in every category (low-light, compactness, or webcam use), but it excels where it matters most—stabilization, ease of use, and value.

If you’re a creator who values smooth, cinematic footage—whether you’re biking, vlogging, or chasing kids—this camera will feel like a revelation. The gimbal is a game-changer, the app is intuitive, and the battery life won’t let you down. Just remember: the gimbal isn’t waterproof, and low-light performance is “good, not great.”

For $349, it’s a steal. You’re not just buying a camera—you’re buying a tool that makes you look like a pro. And isn’t that what every creator wants?

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera with Gimbal stand out from other action cameras?

The DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera with Gimbal combines ultra-stable 4K video recording with a built-in 3-axis gimbal, delivering buttery-smooth footage even in high-motion scenarios. Unlike traditional action cameras that rely on electronic stabilization, the mechanical gimbal ensures superior image quality without cropping.

Can the DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera handle extreme outdoor conditions?

Yes, the camera is designed with weather-resistant housing, making it suitable for rain, dust, and temperatures as low as -10°C. Its rugged build and included protective frame let you confidently use it for skiing, biking, or water-based activities.

Does the DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera with Gimbal support slow-motion and time-lapse?

Absolutely. It offers 1080p slow-motion up to 240fps and multiple time-lapse modes, including motion-lapse and hyperlapse. These features, paired with the gimbal’s stability, create professional-grade creative effects effortlessly.

How long does the battery last on the DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera?

The removable 1300mAh battery delivers approximately 120 minutes of 4K/30fps recording. For extended use, carrying spare batteries or using a power bank via USB-C is recommended.

Is the DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera compatible with GoPro mounts?

Yes, thanks to its standard 1/4”-20 tripod thread and included mounting bracket, it works seamlessly with most GoPro-style accessories. This versatility simplifies integration into existing setups.

What accessories come with the DJI Osmo 4K Action Camera with Gimbal?

The package includes a mounting frame, USB-C cable, wrist strap, quick-release plate, and a protective case. DJI also offers optional add-ons like an external mic adapter and ND filters for enhanced shooting control.