La DJi Osmo Action It was presented recently and from the first moment we already saw it as a big headache for GoPro. Now that we have spent a few days with her we can confirm that it will be, but there is still time. If she interests you and you want to know what she offers, the best and what she must solve, we will tell you in our analysis.
DJi Osmo Action, technical characteristics
Before commenting on what we think, talking about those details that you appreciate only with use and other aspects, let's review its main specifications.
| DJi Osmo Action | Features |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 1/23” CMOS with 12 MP resolution |
| Objective | F2.8 aperture and 145º field of view |
| ISO | 100–3.200 |
| Institutional | resolution max. 4K at 60fps, slow motion at 1080p and 240fps |
| Stabilization | Electronic stabilization system, RockSteady |
| Photograph. | 12 MP (4.000 x 3.000 pixels) |
| Battery | Removable 1.300 mAh LiPo |
| front screen | 1,4″ 300 ppi and 750 cd/m2 |
| Rear screen | 2,25” 325 ppi and 750 cd/m2 |
| Extras | Support HDR video recording, maximum Bitrate of 100 Mbps in MOV or MP4 format, integrated microphone, voice command control, microSD card up to 256GB |
As you can see, the DJi Osmo Action Tech Sheet it's quite interesting on paper. But one thing is theory and then practice. Even so, a priori it is logical to think and assume that we are facing one of the most attractive products in its category.
DJi Osmo Action, video analysis
Build quality on par with DJi
Many things can be asked of an action camera, but together with the highest possible image quality, its build quality should be one of it. Because it is a product that is going to be used a lot and it needs to withstand the passage of time well.
In this DJi Osmo Action, the manufacturer once again shows that it is at a high level. For materials, design and finishes, we can blame the device for little or nothing.
At the top it has two buttons. One for the start and pause of the recording as well as the capture of photos. The other for turning on and activating the screen when it enters sleep mode. On one side we find a third button for quick access to different modes. This menu can be configured so that there are those that most interest us or use.
For the rest, with a double screen, one on the front and one on the back, the camera is very well made and is not much bigger than other similar proposals. Of course, it only has a cover that is the one that gives access to the USB C connector and the slot for the microSD card.
The battery incorporates its own cover, as well as rubber to prevent water from entering. And it may not cause problems over time, that DJi has tested it well and considers that it is an ideal solution, but right now it is the detail that has least convinced us at the design level. Unfortunately, it is something that only time will tell if it is a success or not, so we will have to remain vigilant to see possible problems that its users may report.
Finally, and how could it be otherwise, the camera comes with a "cage" that allows it to be placed on different bases and supports. The ones from DJi have a proprietary system, but the screw part is perfectly compatible with any GoPro base. Therefore, what could be an insignificant detail is just the opposite, and all those who are thinking of switching from GoPro to DJi will know that they will not have to modify any accessory that they already have attached to their bike, car, surfboard, etc.
A very comfortable interface for a software that is improving
DJi's user interface is very comfortable and the controls to change the resolution of the video or photo, frames per second, access the captured material, make quick adjustments, select video-photo modes, sound options, etc. they are learned quickly.
Everything is within the reach of simple gestures and adapting does not require much more than a few minutes. Knowing all the options it has is another thing, but its handling is simple. Also, if you don't want to use the camera interface itself, you can also you can use the DJi Mimo app, available for iOS and Android.
Through the smartphone application you can control all its settings, in addition to using the phone as a screen to preview what the camera is capturing. But as we said, it is not perfect software.
If we compare its current software with that of other similar cameras, there are things that are missing or are not so complete. For example, the camera offers voice commands, but they are only available in English and Chinese. Also, in number they are limited compared to what GoPro offers. Then there are some settings such as Hyperlapse that have been added in the latest firmware update and others such as those that would allow an external sound source to be used that are not there.
However, the biggest problem is the delay between what is recorded and what is displayed on the screen. This is noticeable when electronic stabilization is activated and is accentuated as we increase the number of frames per second. Possibly it is more a lack of processor power than a software issue, but they should try to polish the issue a bit more. Because although it does not affect the final result of the recorded video, it is annoying to be viewing the image and see a delay on the screen.
Therefore, despite the latter, At the user experience level, the camera convinces. But it is necessary that you pay attention to it and investigate its menus, do tests and whatever you can think of to get to know it in depth. So you will know how to get the most out of it. For example, 2,7K video resolution performs best alongside 4K video in a 4:3 aspect ratio.
Picture and sound quality
Like almost any other DJi product, the important thing here is the quality of its camera and its audio system.
The Osmo Action is, as it was supposed to, quite a capable camera. Its ability to record video in 4K at 60p is not surprising, because other cameras have been offering it for a long time, but the quality of the clip is. Of course, with a bit rate of 100 Mbps in the use of slow cameras and Hyperlapse we do notice certain artifacts in the image that make it less attractive.
These are the available video recording options:
| Institutional | 4K (16: 9) - 60, 50, 48, 30, 25, 24 fps 4K (4: 3) - 30, 25, 24 fps 2.7K (4: 3) - 30, 25, 24 fps 2.7K (16: 9) - 60, 50, 48, 30, 25, 24fps 1080p - 240, 200, 120, 100, 60, 50, 48, 30, 25, 24 fps 720p - 240, 200 fps |
|---|---|
| Slow Motion | 720p 120, 240fps Speed: 4/8 1080p 120, 240fps Speed: 4/8 |
| HDR video | 4K: 30, 25, 24fps 2.7K: 30, 25, 24fps 1080p: 30, 25, 24fps |
| Timelapse | 4K – 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 13, 15, 20, 30s 2.7K – 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 13, 15, 20, 30 sec 1080p – 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 13, 15, 20, 30 sec |
| Hyperlapse | 2.7K – 15x, 10x, 5x, 2x 1080p – 15x, 10x, 5x, 2x |
In terms of color, with the Cinelike-D profile and HDR mode activated to take better advantage of the sensor's dynamic range, video files are quite appreciative of subsequent color correction when we edit them. They won't give the same gameplay as RAW or log files, but the flatter images are nice.
About the stabilization system, despite the fact that it cuts on the real image captured by the sensor, RockSteady's work is really good and the fluidity of the movements is at a good level. Too bad when shooting HDR video stabilization isn't available, just as it isn't available when going above 100 fps.
The latter is the least important, because when you do slow motion you already gain stability, but recording HDR video at 30p and not being able to obtain a stabilized clip is, perhaps, a demonstration of a less powerful processor for what would really be needed.
However, to be fair with the limitations of a sensor of this size, the only thing that could really be criticized in terms of image quality is that there is some excessive sharpness. That same point that all DJi cameras have, except for the Zenmuse series. If they gave an option to adjust said level it would be interesting, because those who are looking for that more cinematographic point and with less marked edges would appreciate it.
Regarding the sound, the capture is not of poor quality as long as the environment is not very noisy. If it is, sounds get in from all directions and in the end it lacks that necessary push to obtain a more professional audio quality. Anyway, the worst thing is that for now there is no USB C to 3,5mm jack adapter that works and allows you to connect an external microphone. Hopefully it can be added via software update. If not, we will have to wait for a second generation.
In photo subjects, better some samples so that you can value your photographic quality by yourself. By the way, at the photo level you will be interested to know that it has a timer option (from 0,5 to 125 seconds), countdown (from 1 to 10 seconds), burst (3, 5 or 7 per second) and AEB (1/3EV ×3, 2/3EV×3, 1EV×3, 1/3EV×5, 2/3EV×5, 1EV5).
The best and worst of the DJi Osmo Action
At this point, after seeing different photographs of what the camera is like, talking about the experience and image quality, we are going to compile its virtues and defects. This way you will be clearer about what the camera offers and where it should be improved, or at least take it into account so that there are no surprises.
The best of the DJi Osmo Action
- La rear screen It is larger than in other cameras and that is appreciated when working with it. In addition, the quality and level of brightness make it look great even outdoors.
- La system interface It is another of its values, it is very intuitive and easy to learn. In a matter of minutes you move perfectly through all the menus and settings. Also, the response of the touch panel is good and precise. But if you want, you can also use the DJi Mimo app to change any video or photo recording settings.
- The camera is capable of recording 4K video at 60fps or slow motion up to 240 fps. Together with HDR video support and Cinelike D color profile you get an interesting video clip for further editing.
- This is more physical than practical, but the screw to adjust the camera to different bases is much more comfortable than the one used by GoPro.
- System rocksteady stabilization, it works great and although it crops the image of the sensor it allows to obtain a video without unsightly shakes.
- Different modes and settings to make Timelapses, Hyperlapse or slow motion.
The worst of the DJi Osmo Action
- There is a delay between capture and image that is displayed on the screen. The reason is none other than the RockSteady stabilization system and the number of frames at which it records video. When you capture at 4K and 60p the delay is almost half a second or so, while in 4K at 30p it is reduced. And if you deactivate the stabilization there are no problems. It may have a possible solution via software or it is simply a lack of processor power, and we will have to wait for the second generation.
- Image quality is good but, as with other DJi cameras, there is a small excessive sharpness which can make recording less attractive for certain users.
- Does not have GPSIt is not something essential but there are users who are interested for certain types of use.
- The battery closing system and its protection to prevent water from entering raises doubts.
- Voice commands only available in English and Chinese, and they are very few compared to GoPro.
- Possible condensation problems on the front screen.
DJi Osmo Action, on the hunt for the GoPro Hero 7
After spending several days with the DJi Osmo Action, the camera turns out to be a product that impresses and that in its first attempt as an action camera it is already in the top three on the market. Even so, the GoPro Hero 7 Black Edition is still ahead in some sections, and they are enough to be the best option at the moment.
View offer on AmazonWith this, we are not saying that you should avoid buying it, both fulfill their mission and as a high-performance action camera there are few additional options. Due to its double screen, the stabilization system, the interface and audio and video quality, the DJi Osmo Action is very attractive to many users. But if DJi polishes those details where it lacks via software or with a next generation, then it will do a lot of damage to GoPro.