DJI Action cameras

DJI is best known as the world's leader in camera drones and stabilization technology. However, in recent years, they have expanded into the action camera market with the DJI Osmo Action and DJI Osmo Action 2.

DJI first made a name for itself with the Phantom drone series over a decade ago. Since then, they have come to dominate the consumer and professional drone market. Their gimbal and camera stabilization technology in their drones is second to none.

In 2019, DJI decided to take its stabilization expertise into a new product category - action cameras. While GoPro had dominated this space, DJI saw room for improvement, especially with image stabilization.

The Osmo Action was DJI's first attempt at an action camera. It directly competed with GoPro models through its combination of excellent stabilization, sharp image quality, and a front-facing screen.

In late 2022, DJI released the Osmo Action 2, refining and improving upon the original with a new sensor and design. It cemented DJI as a major player in action cameras.

DJI's background in aerial photography and stabilization gave them an edge in creating action cameras optimized for smooth video during motion and action. While less established in this market than drones, their action cameras demonstrate innovation and quality.

DJI Osmo Action

The DJI Osmo Action was DJI's first action camera, released in 2019. It directly competes with GoPro's Hero series with a compact and rugged design.

Overview

• 12MP 1/2.3" CMOS sensor

• Wide angle lens with 145° field of view

• 4K video up to 60fps, 1080p video up to 240fps

• RockSteady EIS stabilization

• Front and rear screens

• Waterproof to 11m without a case

• Removable battery with 1300mAh capacity

Pros

• Excellent image stabilization

• Bright, vivid colors in videos and photos

• Intuitive touch controls

• Helpful shooting modes like timelapse and slow motion

• Front display screen great for vlogging

Cons

• Mediocre low light performance

• No live streaming capabilities

• Battery life could be better

• App connectivity can be spotty

The DJI Osmo Action was a solid first entry into the action cam market for DJI. It matched up well against the Hero 7 Black with great stabilization, image quality, and a unique front facing screen. While the battery life leaves something to be desired, overall it's a great option for anyone looking for an alternative to GoPro.

DJI Osmo Action 2

The DJI Osmo Action 2 was released in October 2022 as an update to the original Osmo Action. This action camera captures 4K video at up to 120fps and 12MP photos.

Some key features and specs:

• 1/1.7" CMOS sensor

• Wide angle lens with up to 155° FOV

• 4K/120fps, 2.7K/120fps, 1080p/240fps video

• 12MP photos

• Front and rear displays

• Waterproof to 16ft without case

• Built-in stabilization with RockSteady 2.0

• Voice control

• USB-C charging

• Compatible with PowerExtend battery module for extended battery life

The Osmo Action 2 improves on the original with the addition of a second screen, better stabilization with RockSteady 2.0, and increased battery life. The image quality is excellent with crisp detail and accurate color in various lighting conditions. Slow motion video is very smooth.

The compact, rugged design makes it easy to mount the camera and take it anywhere without worries. The intuitive DJI Mimo app allows for remote control and sharing.

Some downsides are the non-removable battery and lack of HDMI port or microphone input like some other action cams have. However, the Osmo Action 2 packs great performance into a small, durable body at a reasonable price point compared to premium competitors.

Overall, the DJI Osmo Action 2 is one of the best action cameras available today for capturing smooth, stabilized video and crisp photos during adventures and sports.

Image Quality

The DJI Osmo Action and Osmo Action 2 both produce excellent image quality for an action camera. The original Osmo Action has a 12MP 1/2.3" CMOS sensor and can shoot 12MP still photos as well as 4K video up to 60fps. Images are sharp and color-accurate in a variety of lighting conditions.

The Osmo Action 2 steps it up a notch with a larger 1/1.7” CMOS sensor, allowing it to capture more light and detail. It can shoot 12MP stills and up to 4K/120fps video. Low light performance is improved on the Osmo Action 2 and it has better dynamic range. This allows it to retain details in highlights and shadows when shooting in high-contrast scenes.

Both models have a wide angle lens with an f/2.8 aperture and an ultra-wide option that provides a 155° field of view, allowing you to fit more of the scene into each shot. They also feature HDR photo and D-Cinelike video modes for capturing a high dynamic range. Overall, the Osmo Action 2 has a slight edge for image quality thanks to its newer, larger sensor. But the original Osmo Action still produces great looking photos and videos for an action cam.

Video Quality

The DJI Osmo Action and Osmo Action 2 offer excellent video quality and capabilities. Both cameras are capable of recording 4K video up to 60fps and 1080p video up to 240fps for slow motion.

The Osmo Action has a 1/2.3" CMOS sensor and can record 4K at 60fps with a bitrate of 100Mbps. It can also shoot HDR video and has a wide selection of creative video modes like 8x slow motion and time lapse.

The Osmo Action 2 has a larger 1/1.7” CMOS sensor and can record 4K up to 120fps. The maximum bitrate is 130Mbps in H.264 and 200Mbps in H.265. This allows for more detailed and higher quality 4K footage, especially when shooting fast motion or action shots. The larger sensor also helps improve low light performance.

Both cameras support flat color profiles like D-Cinelike for advanced color grading in post production. The Osmo Action 2 adds 10-bit LOG color for even more dynamic range and flexibility when color grading.

Overall, the video capabilities of the Osmo Action series rivals many traditional action cameras. The combination of advanced sensors, high frame rates, and pro codec options make them great choices for shooting stunning 4K or HD video in a compact form factor.

Stabilization

DJI's action cameras are known for their excellent stabilization, thanks to the built-in RockSteady stabilization technology.

The original Osmo Action introduced RockSteady Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) which provided smooth, stable footage even during fast-paced activities. The 3-axis mechanical gimbal works with the EIS to counteract camera shake and vibrations. Videos are incredibly smooth without any jittering or distortion.

The Osmo Action 2 takes stabilization even further with HorizonSteady, an advanced stabilization mode. It locks the horizon line and provides even smoother results during intense motion. HorizonSteady utilizes the larger image sensor to provide a wider view and more stabilization capability.

Both models deliver impressively stable, distortion-free footage in a compact form factor. But the Osmo Action 2 pulls ahead with its next-gen stabilization tech that builds on the already great RockSteady system. For the most stable action camera footage, the Osmo Action 2 is the way to go.

Durability

DJI's action cameras are designed to be durable and withstand challenging shooting environments.

Waterproof and Dustproof

The Osmo Action is waterproof up to 11 meters without a case, making it well-suited for water activities like swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. It's also sealed against dust and sand, so you don't have to worry about particles getting inside the camera.

The Osmo Action 2 improves the waterproof rating to 16 meters without a case. It has the same dustproof sealing as the Osmo Action.

Drop Resistant

Both the Osmo Action and Osmo Action 2 can withstand drops from heights of up to 1.5 meters. Their rugged, rubberized bodies help absorb impact in case you accidentally drop the camera.

This level of shock resistance gives you peace of mind when using the camera for intense sports like mountain biking, skiing, or rock climbing where drops are a possibility. You don't have to be overly cautious about damaging the camera if you slip or fall.

The durability against water, dust, and drops makes DJI's action cams suitable for capturing adventures in demanding environments without the need for additional protective cases or housings.

Apps and Software

DJI's action cameras connect to the DJI Mimo app, available for iOS and Android devices. The app provides full control over camera settings and access to editing tools and creative templates.

Through the Mimo app, users can view a live feed from the camera, adjust parameters like ISO, shutter speed, and more. The app also enables quick editing and sharing of content directly from your phone.

For more advanced editing, DJI's action cameras integrate with popular software like Adobe Premiere and Final Cut Pro. The footage can be easily imported, edited, and exported in professional editing programs. DJI provides plugin support to simplify the workflow.

Overall, DJI's companion app and editing software integration make it straightforward to capture, edit, and share action camera content seamlessly across devices. The tools allow both quick mobile edits and professional post-production work.

Accessories

The DJI Osmo Action and Osmo Action 2 have a range of useful accessories available to enhance the experience. Here are some of the most popular:

Batteries

Extra batteries are essential to extend shooting time. The Osmo Action uses a 1230mAh battery while the Osmo Action 2 has a 1770mAh battery. Both provide around 70 minutes of recording time per charge. DJI's official batteries provide the best performance and safety.

Mounts

DJI offers a range of mounts like the adjustable mounting bracket, magnetic swivel mount, flat adhesive mounts, and more. This allows you to securely attach the Osmo Action cameras to helmets, bikes, surfboards, vehicles, and other gear. The quick-release design makes it easy to detach and swap between mounts.

Filters

Lens filters like ND filters help control light exposure in bright conditions. The filters attach via the filter mount adapter. Polarizing filters reduce reflections and enhance color saturation. Neutral density filters reduce light transmission so you can use slower shutter speeds.

Waterproof Housing

The waterproof housing protects the Osmo Action cameras up to 60 meters underwater. It provides a universal mount for attaching accessories and maintains full access to ports and buttons. The housing lets you capture underwater videos, surfing, swimming, and other watersports.

Controller

The DJI Osmo Action Controller has an integrated touchscreen with live view of the camera. It can control recording start/stop, switch modes, review footage and adjust settings. The controller connects via Bluetooth for wireless control from up to 10 meters away.

Charging Case

The Osmo Action Charging Case can recharge the camera battery up to 3 times while protecting the device. It has a built-in battery and USB-C port for charging. The case provides storage and charging while traveling.

Extended Warranty

DJI Care Refresh offers added coverage in case of accidental damage and extends the warranty period. It includes up to two replacement units within one year to protect your investment.

Other Accessories

Other useful accessories include floating hand grips, wrist straps, rod mounts, suction cup mounts, selfie sticks, external microphones and more. Bundles and combo packs are available with popular accessories.

Conclusion

DJI's action cameras like the Osmo Action and Osmo Action 2 pack impressive specs and performance into a rugged, compact body. With their ability to shoot stabilized 4K/120fps and 5.3K/60fps video, capture 12MP photos, and pair with a suite of mobile apps, they make a compelling choice for adventure videography and vlogging.

The image quality stands out with sharp footage and vibrant colors in a variety of conditions. The RockSteady stabilization lives up to its name, delivering smooth video even during fast motions and vibrations. The front display makes framing selfie shots easy.

For most users, the Osmo Action 2 hits the sweet spot between features, price and size. But the original Osmo Action remains a good value option. DJI continues to refine the hardware and software with consistent updates.

If you're looking for a rugged action camera that can capture stunning stabilized video, timelapses and hyperlapses, the DJI Osmo Action series should be at the top of your list. They deliver impressive performance that competes with GoPro's Hero lineup while bringing DJI's innovations in gimbal stabilization and intelligent shooting modes.