dji osmo action camera 1

In the dynamic world of action cameras, innovation is constant, and competition fierce. Yet, some devices carve out a special place in history, not just for their capabilities but for their sheer impact on the market. One such trailblazer is the original DJI Osmo Action Camera 1. Released by drone giant DJI, this camera wasn’t just another contender; it was a statement, a bold declaration that DJI was ready to shake up the established order with its unique blend of robust hardware and advanced stabilization technology.

When the DJI Osmo Action 1 first hit the scene, it arrived with a bang, offering features that directly challenged the status quo. Its dual-screen design and the now-legendary RockSteady stabilization system immediately captured the attention of vloggers, adventurers, and content creators worldwide. It promised unshakeable footage and unprecedented ease of use for front-facing recording, setting a new benchmark for what users could expect from a compact, go-anywhere camera. Even years later, the legacy of the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 continues to resonate, reminding us of a pivotal moment in action camera evolution.

This comprehensive dive will explore every facet of the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1, from its groundbreaking features and real-world performance to its enduring relevance in today’s crowded market. Whether you’re a long-time fan, a new enthusiast considering older models, or simply curious about the camera that redefined expectations, join us as we revisit a true pioneer.

Quick Answers to Common Questions

What’s the standout feature of the dji osmo action camera 1?

Its incredible RockSteady electronic image stabilization is a game-changer, ensuring super smooth footage even during the most intense activities. This feature truly sets the dji osmo action camera 1 apart from many competitors!

Can I take the dji osmo action camera 1 underwater without a case?

Absolutely! The dji osmo action camera 1 is waterproof down to 11 meters (36 feet) right out of the box, making it perfect for your swimming and shallow diving adventures without extra housing.

Does the dji osmo action camera 1 have a front display?

Yes, it boasts a brilliant front color screen, which is fantastic for framing yourself perfectly when vlogging or taking selfies. This unique feature of the dji osmo action camera 1 was a real innovation for action cameras.

What kind of video quality can I expect from the dji osmo action camera 1?

You can capture stunning 4K video at up to 60 frames per second (fps), delivering crisp, detailed, and vibrant footage. The dji osmo action camera 1 offers excellent image quality for all your action-packed moments.

How long does the battery last on the dji osmo action camera 1?

On a full charge, you can typically expect around 63 minutes of 4K/60fps recording with RockSteady enabled, or up to 135 minutes at 1080p/30fps. The dji osmo action camera 1 provides decent power for capturing your adventures.

Redefining Action: The Genesis of the DJI Osmo Action 1

Before the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1, DJI was primarily known for its world-leading drones and gimbals. Their expertise in aerial photography and stabilization was unquestionable, but the action camera segment was a new frontier. When DJI finally announced their entry, the industry braced itself, and for good reason. The Osmo Action 1 wasn’t just a timid step; it was a confident leap into a highly competitive space, packed with features designed to directly address common pain points experienced by action camera users.

Launched in May 2019, the DJI Osmo Action 1 emerged during a period of rapid advancement in portable video technology. GoPro had long dominated the market, but DJI saw an opportunity to innovate where others had stagnated. Their approach was not merely to mimic but to elevate, integrating their renowned stabilization technology and introducing user-centric design choices that immediately set the Osmo Action 1 apart. It quickly established itself as a credible alternative, offering a fresh perspective on what an action camera could and should be, especially for those who frequently documented themselves.

The Dual-Screen Advantage: A Game Changer

Perhaps the most revolutionary feature of the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 was its dual-screen design. While rear touchscreens were standard, DJI innovated by adding a vibrant, full-color front screen. This seemingly simple addition was a revelation for vloggers and self-shooters. No longer did you have to guess if you were in frame or rely on awkward external monitors. The front screen provided a live, clear preview, making composition effortless and greatly enhancing the user experience for anyone looking directly at the camera. It was an instant hit and quickly became a benchmark that competitors scrambled to emulate.

This dual-screen functionality wasn’t just a gimmick; it fundamentally changed how people interacted with their action cameras. From shooting dynamic selfies to ensuring precise framing during adventurous stunts, the front screen of the DJI Osmo Action 1 empowered creators to capture their moments with confidence and precision. It eliminated the frustration of missed shots due to misframing and significantly improved workflow for a wide range of content creation scenarios, from travel vlogs to extreme sports documentation.

RockSteady: DJI’s Answer to Shaky Footage

Another cornerstone of the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1‘s appeal was its electronic image stabilization (EIS) system, dubbed RockSteady. Leveraging DJI’s extensive experience with drone and gimbal stabilization, RockSteady delivered incredibly smooth, gimbal-like footage without the need for additional hardware. This was a critical differentiator, especially in the rugged world of action cameras where smooth video is paramount. RockSteady effectively compensated for camera shake and vibrations, turning jittery clips into fluid, professional-looking sequences, even in high-action environments.

The effectiveness of RockSteady was immediately evident upon its release. Whether you were cycling down a bumpy trail, running, or skiing, the stabilization of the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 ensured your footage remained remarkably stable and watchable. Unlike some competitors that struggled with aggressive movements or low light, RockSteady proved robust across various conditions. This superior stabilization became a defining characteristic of the Osmo Action 1, making it a favorite among those who demanded crisp, shake-free video from their adventures.

Unpacking the Power: Key Features and Specifications of the DJI Osmo Action 1

Beyond its headline-grabbing dual screens and RockSteady stabilization, the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 was packed with an impressive array of features and robust specifications that cemented its status as a top-tier action camera. DJI didn’t cut corners, ensuring that the core imaging capabilities were just as compelling as its innovative design choices. This combination made it a formidable tool for creators of all levels.

At its heart, the DJI Osmo Action 1 featured a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor capable of capturing stunning 4K video at up to 60 frames per second (fps) with a bitrate of 100 Mbps. This allowed for incredibly detailed and vibrant footage, even in fast-moving scenes. For those who loved to slow down the action, it offered 8x slow-motion recording at 1080p/240fps, opening up creative possibilities for dramatic effect. Photo capabilities were equally strong, with 12-megapixel stills and RAW format support for greater post-processing flexibility. Its wide 145° field of view ensured you captured all the action, making it ideal for immersive point-of-view shots.

Video Modes and Frame Rates

The versatility of the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 truly shone in its diverse video recording options. Users could choose from various resolutions and frame rates to suit different needs:

• 4K UHD: 3840×2160 at 24/25/30/48/50/60fps
• 2.7K: 2688×1512 at 24/25/30/48/50/60fps
• 1080p: 1920×1080 at 24/25/30/48/50/60/120/200/240fps
• 720p: 1280×720 at 24/25/30/48/50/60/120/200/240fps

These options provided immense flexibility, from cinematic 24fps footage to super slow-motion analysis of dynamic events. The ability to record in D-Cinelike color profile also gave professional users more latitude for color grading, allowing for a more personalized and polished final look. The implementation of electronic image stabilization (RockSteady) was available across most modes, providing consistently smooth footage.

Photo Capabilities and Imaging Prowess

While action cameras are primarily known for video, the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 didn’t skimp on still photography. It captured crisp 12-megapixel photos with a wide f/2.8 aperture lens. Beyond standard photo mode, it offered several intelligent shooting features:

• Single Shot: Standard photo capture.
• Burst: Capture multiple shots in quick succession for fast-moving subjects.
• Timelapse: Create mesmerizing time-lapse sequences from intervals ranging from 0.5s to 30s.
• Timed: Set a timer for self-portraits or group shots.
• AEB (Auto Exposure Bracketing): Capture three bracketed exposures for improved dynamic range in challenging lighting conditions.

The inclusion of a manual exposure mode, allowing control over ISO and shutter speed, further elevated its photographic potential, appealing to users who wanted more control over their image capture. This robust suite of photographic tools ensured that the DJI Osmo Action 1 was a versatile companion for both video and stills.

Durability and Design

True to its action camera lineage, the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 was built to withstand the rigors of adventure. It was designed to be robust and ready for anything you could throw at it, or rather, take it through. The camera was waterproof down to 11 meters (36 feet) without any additional housing, a significant advantage for watersports enthusiasts. For deeper dives, an optional waterproof case extended this capability to 60 meters (197 feet).

Its rugged construction included a dustproof and shockproof design, making it suitable for a wide range of environments, from dusty deserts to snowy mountains. The lens cover was also designed to be easily replaceable, a thoughtful touch that minimized downtime from minor damages. The intuitive interface, featuring quick-switch buttons and responsive touchscreens, further enhanced its user-friendliness, ensuring that even in the heat of the moment, operating the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 remained straightforward and efficient.

Beyond the Specs: Real-World Performance and User Experience

Specifications tell only part of the story. The true measure of an action camera lies in its real-world performance and how it translates into a seamless user experience. The DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 excelled in this regard, offering intuitive controls, reliable performance, and an overall enjoyable shooting process that made it a go-to device for many content creators.

One of the immediate benefits users noticed was the speed of operation. Thanks to DJI’s optimized hardware and software, the Osmo Action 1 booted up quickly, and the SnapShot feature allowed users to start recording within seconds by simply pressing the record button, even when the camera was off. This responsiveness was crucial for capturing spontaneous moments that action cameras are designed for. The user interface on both the front and rear screens was clean and easy to navigate, with essential settings accessible via simple swipes and taps, making it ideal for on-the-go adjustments.

Vlogging with the Osmo Action 1

For vloggers, the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 was a revelation. The front screen eliminated the guesswork of framing, allowing creators to confidently address the camera knowing they were always in shot. This wasn’t just a convenience; it was a fundamental shift in how vlogging could be done with an action camera. Paired with RockSteady, handheld vlogging became incredibly smooth, even while walking or moving. The wide field of view ensured plenty of background context, and the integrated microphone, while not studio-grade, offered decent audio quality for casual vlogging. For more professional audio, the USB-C port supported external microphone adapters, further enhancing its appeal to serious vloggers.

The camera’s compact size and lightweight design also made it incredibly portable, fitting easily into pockets or small bags. This made it an ideal travel companion, ready to capture quick clips or longer sequences without being cumbersome. The versatility of being able to monitor your shot from the front, quickly switch settings, and rely on excellent stabilization made the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 a standout choice for anyone looking to document their life and experiences with ease.

Adventure and Sports Filming

As an action camera, its performance in challenging environments was paramount, and the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 delivered. From mountain biking and surfing to skiing and rock climbing, RockSteady stabilization proved its worth repeatedly, transforming what would otherwise be unusable shaky footage into smooth, cinematic clips. The robust, waterproof design meant users could take it almost anywhere without fear, capturing stunning underwater scenes or enduring splashes and impacts.

Battery life, an eternal concern for action cameras, was respectable for the Osmo Action 1, offering around 60 minutes of 4K/60fps recording with RockSteady enabled, and longer at lower resolutions. Swapping out batteries was a straightforward process, thanks to its easily accessible battery compartment. The camera’s ability to maintain clear, sharp images and video in various lighting conditions, combined with its resistance to the elements, solidified its reputation as a reliable workhorse for adventurers and athletes. It wasn’t just about surviving the adventure; it was about capturing it beautifully.

The DJI Mimo App Experience

Complementing the hardware, the DJI Mimo app provided an intuitive platform for controlling the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 remotely, previewing footage, and editing clips. Connecting via Wi-Fi, the app allowed for comprehensive control over settings, making it easy to fine-tune exposure, frame rates, and color profiles from your smartphone. The live view feature was particularly useful for setting up complex shots or monitoring the camera when mounted out of reach.

Beyond control, the Mimo app also offered basic editing tools, allowing users to trim clips, add music, and apply filters before sharing their creations directly to social media. While not a professional editing suite, it provided a convenient and quick way to produce shareable content on the go. Firmware updates for the DJI Osmo Action 1 were also managed through the app, ensuring the camera remained up-to-date with the latest features and performance improvements, extending its lifespan and utility.

Elevating Your Content: Essential Accessories and Ecosystem

To truly unlock the full potential of the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1, integrating it with the right accessories is key. DJI, along with a thriving third-party market, provided a comprehensive ecosystem of add-ons designed to enhance everything from power and protection to audio and creative possibilities. These accessories transform the camera from a capable standalone device into a versatile content creation powerhouse.

When considering accessories for your DJI Osmo Action Camera 1, it’s wise to prioritize based on your typical usage. For adventurers, robust mounting solutions and additional protection are paramount. Vloggers will often look towards enhanced audio and versatile grips. Regardless of your focus, a well-chosen accessory can significantly improve the quality and ease of your content creation, making your investment in the Osmo Action 1 even more valuable.

Powering Your Adventures: Batteries and Charging

One of the most essential accessories for any action camera is extra batteries. The DJI Osmo Action 1 battery offered decent life, but for extended shoots or multi-day adventures, having spares is non-negotiable. A multi-battery charging hub is highly recommended, allowing you to charge two or three batteries simultaneously, ensuring you’re always ready to capture the moment. Portable power banks that can charge the camera via its USB-C port in the field are also invaluable, especially when away from traditional power sources.

Consider the official DJI batteries for optimal performance and compatibility. While third-party options exist, official batteries often offer better reliability and safety. Investing in a quick charger can also save valuable time, getting you back to shooting faster. Remember, the more power you have, the more content you can capture without interruption, making extra batteries a top priority for any DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 owner.

Mounts and Protection: Gearing Up for Action

The versatility of an action camera hinges on its mounting options. The DJI Osmo Action 1 came with a universal frame and sticky mounts, but the accessory market offered much more:

• Chest Mount: Ideal for immersive first-person perspective footage during activities like biking, skiing, or hiking.
• Head Mount: Similar to a chest mount but offers a higher perspective, great for vlogging or documenting your line of sight.
• Handlebar Mount: Essential for cyclists, providing stable footage from your bike.
• Suction Cup Mount: For attaching to smooth surfaces like cars, boats, or surfboards (use with caution and a safety tether).
• Floating Handle/Grip: A must-have for water activities, ensuring your camera doesn’t sink. It also provides a comfortable grip.
• Waterproof Housing: Extends the camera’s waterproof rating beyond 11 meters, crucial for deeper dives or extreme water sports.
• Protective Frame/Cage: Offers additional impact protection and often provides extra mounting points for lights or microphones.

Choosing the right mounts depends entirely on your activities. Always opt for sturdy, reliable mounts to prevent your DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 from falling off during intense action. Safety tethers are also a good idea for high-risk mounting situations.

Audio and Lighting: Enhancing Production Value

While the internal microphone of the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 is decent, for professional-sounding audio, an external microphone is a game-changer. DJI offered an official 3.5mm adapter, allowing users to connect a wide range of external mics, from lavaliers for interviews to shotgun mics for focused audio capture. This significantly improved sound quality, especially in windy environments or when the subject is further from the camera.

For low-light shooting or when you need to add creative lighting, portable LED lights can be mounted onto a cage or a compatible mount. These small, powerful lights can illuminate your subject, improve detail, and add a professional touch to your footage, especially during evening shoots or in dimly lit indoor environments. Combining these audio and lighting accessories with your DJI Osmo Action 1 can elevate your content from amateur to near-professional quality, making a noticeable difference in overall production value.

The DJI Osmo Action 1 in Today’s Market: Is It Still Relevant?

In a world where new action cameras are released almost annually, each boasting incremental improvements, it’s fair to ask: does the original DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 still hold its own? The answer, surprisingly, is a resounding yes, especially for certain users and use cases. While newer models from DJI and its competitors have certainly pushed boundaries, the Osmo Action 1’s foundational strengths ensure its continued relevance.

Its core features—the dual-screen setup and RockSteady stabilization—remain highly effective. These weren’t fleeting gimmicks but well-executed innovations that continue to provide significant value. For many, the advancements in newer models, such as slightly improved low-light performance or higher frame rates at extreme resolutions, don’t always justify the higher price tag, especially if their primary use case is casual vlogging, adventure recording, or as a reliable secondary camera.

Value Proposition for Beginners and Budget-Conscious Users

For those just starting their journey into action camera videography or content creation, the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 presents an exceptional value proposition. As an older model, its price has naturally dropped significantly, making it an incredibly affordable entry point into high-quality action filming. Beginners get robust features like 4K/60fps video, excellent stabilization, and the unique dual-screen experience at a fraction of the cost of current flagships.

This affordability doesn’t come with significant compromises on essential functionality. The ease of use, durable build, and strong video performance mean that new users can learn and grow with the camera without feeling limited. It’s also an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable backup camera or a dedicated device for specific activities where risking a more expensive model isn’t desirable. The DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 democratizes action videography, putting powerful tools within reach of a wider audience.

Comparing to Modern Action Cameras

When stacked against its successors like the Osmo Action 3 or Action 4, or contemporary GoPros (Hero 9, 10, 11), the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 naturally shows its age in certain areas. Newer cameras might offer slightly better low-light performance, more advanced stabilization algorithms (like HorizonSteady), higher megapixel counts, or larger sensors. They might also feature faster processors, longer battery life in some modes, or more advanced connectivity options. However, the differences are often incremental rather than revolutionary for everyday use.

For instance, while newer models might offer 5K or even 8K recording, 4K/60fps from the Osmo Action 1 is still more than sufficient for most viewing platforms and professional applications. The RockSteady stabilization, though superseded by newer iterations, still delivers incredibly smooth results that rival many current mid-range cameras. The dual-screen design, a pioneering feature, is now standard on most action cameras, a testament to its foresight. Thus, while not the absolute bleeding edge, the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 remains a highly capable device that holds its own against many newer, more expensive alternatives for practical purposes.

Longevity and Software Support

An often-overlooked aspect of older electronics is software support. DJI has a commendable track record of supporting its products, and while major feature updates might cease, critical bug fixes and compatibility updates for the DJI Mimo app tend to continue for a reasonable period. This means your DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 will continue to function reliably with current operating systems and devices, ensuring a good long-term user experience.

Furthermore, the robust physical build of the Osmo Action 1 contributes to its longevity. Many users report their units still working perfectly after years of adventurous use. The availability of replacement parts (like lens protectors) and a strong community of users also contribute to its continued usability. Therefore, if you’re looking for a dependable action camera that delivers excellent performance without breaking the bank, the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 remains a highly relevant and viable option today.

Data Dive: DJI Osmo Action 1 Specifications at a Glance

For those who love to dive into the technical details, here’s a quick overview of the key specifications for the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1:

Feature	Specification
Sensor	1/2.3” CMOS, 12M effective pixels
Lens	FOV: 145° f/2.8
ISO Range	Photo: 100-3200; Video: 100-3200
Electronic Shutter Speed	Photo: 1/8000-30s; Video: 1/8000s to the limit of frames per second
Max Photo Resolution	4000×3000 pixels
Video Resolution	4K (3840×2160) up to 60fps 2.7K (2688×1512) up to 60fps 1080p (1920×1080) up to 240fps 720p (1280×720) up to 240fps
Max Video Bitrate	100 Mbps
Video Formats	MOV, MP4 (H.264)
Stabilization	RockSteady (EIS)
Waterproof	11m (36 ft) without case; 60m (197 ft) with waterproof case
Screens	Front: 1.4-inch (300 ppi, 750 ±50 cd/m²) Rear: 2.25-inch (640×360, 325 ppi, 750 ±50 cd/m²)
Battery Capacity	1300 mAh
Storage	microSD (up to 256 GB)

Conclusion

The DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 wasn’t just another action camera; it was a watershed moment in the industry. With its pioneering dual-screen design and the introduction of the highly effective RockSteady stabilization, it carved out a unique identity and forced competitors to rethink their own offerings. It delivered on its promise of robust performance, stunning video quality, and an intuitive user experience, making high-quality action capture more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Even as newer models flood the market, the original DJI Osmo Action 1 remains a highly capable and relevant device. Its exceptional value, strong core features, and durable build make it an excellent choice for beginners, budget-conscious creators, or as a reliable secondary camera for seasoned pros. The legacy of the DJI Osmo Action Camera 1 is not just in its specifications, but in how it reshaped expectations and inspired a new wave of innovation in the action camera landscape. It’s a testament to DJI’s engineering prowess and their commitment to pushing boundaries. For anyone seeking a versatile, robust, and high-performing action camera, the Osmo Action 1 continues to be a compelling option, proving that true innovation stands the test of time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main features of the DJI Osmo Action camera 1?

The DJI Osmo Action camera 1 is renowned for its innovative dual color screens, including a front-facing display perfect for vlogging and selfies. It also boasts DJI’s powerful RockSteady electronic image stabilization, ensuring incredibly smooth footage even in demanding action scenarios.

What kind of video quality can I expect from the DJI Osmo Action 1?

The DJI Osmo Action 1 captures stunning 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, allowing for crisp, detailed footage. It also offers various slow-motion options, including 8x slow-motion at 1080p for dramatic effect.

Is the DJI Osmo Action camera 1 waterproof, and to what depth?

Yes, the DJI Osmo Action camera 1 is natively waterproof without a housing to a depth of 11 meters (36 feet). For deeper underwater adventures, an additional waterproof case can extend its capabilities to 60 meters.

How well does the RockSteady stabilization work on the DJI Osmo Action camera 1?

DJI’s RockSteady electronic image stabilization on the Osmo Action 1 is highly effective, delivering remarkably stable and smooth footage. It significantly reduces camera shake and vibrations, making your action videos look professional and steady.

What is the average battery life of the DJI Osmo Action camera 1?

The DJI Osmo Action camera 1 typically offers about 63 minutes of recording at 4K/60fps (with RockSteady) or up to 135 minutes at 1080p/30fps (without RockSteady). Its battery is also easily swappable, allowing you to carry spares for extended shoots.

Is the original DJI Osmo Action camera 1 still a good purchase in today’s market?

For users seeking a budget-friendly action camera with robust features, the DJI Osmo Action camera 1 remains a strong contender. Its excellent RockSteady stabilization and innovative dual-screen design still offer great value, especially for casual users or as a secondary camera.