The DJI OSMO Action 4 has quickly established itself as a top-tier action camera that gives GoPro a serious run for its money. With its larger sensor, impressive low-light capabilities, and innovative magnetic mounting system, this compact powerhouse is designed for adventure enthusiasts who refuse to compromise on video quality. Having spent significant time testing this camera in various conditions, I can confidently say that DJI has created something special that deserves your attention, especially if you’re in the market for a reliable action camera that performs exceptionally well in challenging environments.
| Key Takeaways | Details |
|---|---|
| Sensor Size | 1/1.3-inch CMOS (25% larger than previous model) |
| Video Quality | 4K/120fps with 155° ultra-wide FOV |
| Waterproofing | 18m without case (better than GoPro) |
| Low-Light Performance | Superior to competition due to larger sensor |
| Battery Life | Up to 150 minutes, works at -20°C (-4°F) |
| Unique Feature | Magnetic quick-release mounting system |
| Best For | Extreme sports, vlogging, low-light adventures |
| Price | Currently $209 (reduced from $299) |
Check price directly on DJI STORE
- DJI USA AUTHORIZED - Includes 1 Year Extended Protection Plan in ADDITION to the Included Manufacturer Protection
- UNMATCHED IMAGE QUALITY IN ALL CONDITIONS - Capture every moment in stunning clarity with the DJI Osmo Action 4's large 1/1.3-inch sensor. This action camera 4k excels in low-light conditions, ensuring your adventures are always documented in breathtaking detail, whether it's dawn or dusk.
- IMMERSIVE COLOR PERFORMANCE - Bring your footage to life with 10-bit and D-Log M Color Performance. The DJI Osmo Action 4 delivers vivid, true-to-life colors, making your sunrise and sunset shots spectacular. Stand out with the pro extreme 4k action camera capabilities.
- IMPRESSIVE 4K/120fps and 155º Ultra-Wide FOV - Experience high-resolution, ultra-wide FOV footage that immerses you in the action. From riding epic waves to flaunting your skate skills, Action 4 delivers captivating slow-motion shots. Perfect for every adventure with this sports camera 4k action camera.
- EXCEPTIONAL COLD-WEATHER PERFORMANCE - Never miss a moment, even in extreme cold. The DJI Osmo Action 4 operates flawlessly in temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) and records continuously for up to 150 minutes. It's the best waterproof action camera for any adventure.
Design and Build Quality: Rugged Reliability That Inspires Confidence 🔨
Let’s face it—action cameras need to take a beating and keep on recording. The DJI OSMO Action 4 doesn’t disappoint in this department. Weighing in at just 5.1 ounces (145 grams) and measuring 2.8 × 1.7 × 1.3 inches, it’s compact enough to take anywhere but robust enough to survive the journey.
The camera follows the tried-and-tested GoPro-style design but adds DJI’s own unique touches. If you’ve used action cameras before, you’ll feel right at home with this one. What sets it apart, though, is its dual touchscreen system—featuring a 2.5-inch rear screen and a 1.4-inch front screen (both touch-sensitive). This is a game-changer for vloggers and solo adventurers who need to monitor their shots from multiple angles.
One user who tested the camera for a full year reported impressive durability: “Survived harsh environments and accidental drops”. That’s the kind of reliability you want when you’re hanging off a cliff face or plunging into ocean depths!
Impressive Specs: The Numbers That Matter 📊
The OSMO Action 4 comes packed with specs that will make any tech enthusiast smile:
- Sensor: 1/1.3-inch CMOS with equivalent pixel size of 2.4 μm
- Aperture: f/2.8
- Video Resolution: Up to 4K at 120fps
- Photo Resolution: 3648×2736
- Field of View: 155° ultra-wide
- Waterproofing: Up to 18m without a case, 60m with waterproof case
- Stabilization: RockSteady 3.0, HorizonSteady
- Battery: Up to 150 minutes runtime
These aren’t just numbers—they translate to real-world performance that gives you the freedom to capture amazing footage in virtually any situation. Need to shoot in freezing temperatures? No problem. The Action 4 works even at -20°C (-4°F).
For DIY enthusiasts who appreciate quality tools, this camera follows the same philosophy as your favorite Milwaukee M12 power tools—reliable performance when you need it most.
Video Quality: Cinematic Results in a Tiny Package 🎬
The OSMO Action 4 shines when it comes to video quality. The combination of its larger 1/1.3-inch sensor and advanced image processing delivers footage that’s incredibly detailed and vibrant.
“This year’s big advancement is its larger-sized sensor which is 25% bigger than last year’s model. Is it enough reason to go with the new Osmo Action 4? I think yes,” notes one reviewer.
Let’s break down what makes the video quality stand out:
4K/120fps Capability
When you need to capture fast-paced action in stunning detail, the 4K/120fps recording mode is your best friend. This gives you the flexibility to create dramatic slow-motion sequences without sacrificing resolution.
One cinematographer shares his workflow: “I always shoot in 4k for the best image quality. As for the frame rate, I shoot it either 25, 50, or 100 frames per second. If I want a super slow-motion shot, I’ll set it to 100p”.
10-bit D-Log M Color Performance
For the more technically-minded creators, the 10-bit color depth and D-Log M profile are game-changers. This means:
- Over a billion colors captured (versus millions in standard 8-bit)
- Greater flexibility when editing footage
- More detail preserved in highlights and shadows
- A more cinematic look straight out of the camera
If you’re someone who enjoys using heat guns for DIY projects, you’ll appreciate this level of precision and control in your action camera.
Stabilization That Actually Works
Nothing ruins action footage more than excessive shake. The Action 4’s 360° HorizonSteady stabilization is remarkably effective at keeping your footage smooth:
“For the best stabilization performance, I use RockSteady plus. It does crop a bit more than normal RockSteady but it delivers better results,” explains one professional user[2].
This means you can mount the camera on your helmet while mountain biking or attach it to your car dashboard, and the footage will remain steady and professional-looking.
- DJI USA AUTHORIZED - Includes 1 Year Extended Protection Plan in ADDITION to the Included Manufacturer Protection
- UNMATCHED IMAGE QUALITY IN ALL CONDITIONS - Capture every moment in stunning clarity with the DJI Osmo Action 4's large 1/1.3-inch sensor. This action camera 4k excels in low-light conditions, ensuring your adventures are always documented in breathtaking detail, whether it's dawn or dusk.
- IMMERSIVE COLOR PERFORMANCE - Bring your footage to life with 10-bit and D-Log M Color Performance. The DJI Osmo Action 4 delivers vivid, true-to-life colors, making your sunrise and sunset shots spectacular. Stand out with the pro extreme 4k action camera capabilities.
- IMPRESSIVE 4K/120fps and 155º Ultra-Wide FOV - Experience high-resolution, ultra-wide FOV footage that immerses you in the action. From riding epic waves to flaunting your skate skills, Action 4 delivers captivating slow-motion shots. Perfect for every adventure with this sports camera 4k action camera.
- EXCEPTIONAL COLD-WEATHER PERFORMANCE - Never miss a moment, even in extreme cold. The DJI Osmo Action 4 operates flawlessly in temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) and records continuously for up to 150 minutes. It's the best waterproof action camera for any adventure.
Low-Light Performance: Where the OSMO Action 4 Truly Shines
This is where the DJI OSMO Action 4 really differentiates itself from competitors. Thanks to its larger sensor size, the camera performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions.
“In actual darkness, shooting around the campfire, I much preferred the results of the Osmo Action 4. Not only did it reveal more detail in the shadows, but the color rendering—always tricky when you mix firelight and electric light—was much better than what I got from the Hero 12,” reports a WIRED reviewer.
The camera also offers adjustable noise reduction settings, giving you control over how the camera processes low-light footage:
“We’re going to go to image adjustment… by default it’s set to default but we can go over to custom and you can see now we can adjust our sharpness… and then over here on the right hand side we have our noise reduction we can go one above or one below”
For those late evening adventures or early morning expeditions, this capability is invaluable. Just like having a good voltage tester pen for working in dim spaces, the Action 4 gives you confidence in challenging lighting conditions.
Magnetic Mounting System: Attachment Made Simple
One of the standout features of the OSMO Action 4 is its magnetic mounting system. Unlike the sometimes fiddly GoPro mounts, DJI’s approach makes attaching and repositioning your camera incredibly intuitive:
“One of the best features of the Action 4, and probably the defining difference when compared to a GoPro, is the magnetic attachment system. Being able to slap on, remove, swap out, rotate, and move on with ease is 100% gold.”
The system includes safety pincers that provide additional security, ensuring your camera stays firmly attached even during high-impact activities. This means less time fussing with equipment and more time capturing awesome footage.
In the box, you’ll find several mounting accessories:
- Horizontal-Vertical Protective Frame
- Quick-Release Adapter Mount
- Curved Adhesive Base
- Locking Screw
- Anti-Slip Pad
Just like having the right Torx screwdriver for your specific job, these purpose-designed mounts make setting up your action camera a breeze.
Head-to-Head: OSMO Action 4 vs. GoPro
When comparing the DJI OSMO Action 4 to its main competitor, the GoPro Hero series, several key differences emerge:
| Feature | DJI OSMO Action 4 | GoPro Hero 11/12 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Resolution | 4K/60p (full sensor) | 5.3K/60p |
| Slow-Motion | 4K/120fps, 1080p/240fps | 4K/120fps, 2.7K/240fps |
| Sensor Size | 1/1.3-inch | Smaller sensor |
| Waterproofing | 18m without case | 10m without case |
| Mounting System | Magnetic quick-release | Fold-out mounting fingers |
| Low-Light Performance | Superior in many scenarios | Less capable |
| Battery Life | Up to 150 min, works at -20°C | Less in extreme conditions |
| Front Screen | 1.4-inch touchscreen | Non-touch front screen |
While GoPro offers higher maximum resolution, the OSMO Action 4 counters with better low-light performance, more intuitive controls, and deeper waterproofing. For protection during extreme activities, consider pairing either camera with quality safety glasses to keep both you and your equipment safe.
“The Action 4 has a better mounting system, better menu system, better battery life, and recharges faster. That said, I liked the footage from…”[5] This sentiment from WIRED’s review captures the essence of the comparison—each camera has its strengths, but the OSMO Action 4 excels in practical, real-world usability.
- DJI USA AUTHORIZED - Includes 1 Year Extended Protection Plan in ADDITION to the Included Manufacturer Protection
- UNMATCHED IMAGE QUALITY IN ALL CONDITIONS - Capture every moment in stunning clarity with the DJI Osmo Action 4's large 1/1.3-inch sensor. This action camera 4k excels in low-light conditions, ensuring your adventures are always documented in breathtaking detail, whether it's dawn or dusk.
- IMMERSIVE COLOR PERFORMANCE - Bring your footage to life with 10-bit and D-Log M Color Performance. The DJI Osmo Action 4 delivers vivid, true-to-life colors, making your sunrise and sunset shots spectacular. Stand out with the pro extreme 4k action camera capabilities.
- IMPRESSIVE 4K/120fps and 155º Ultra-Wide FOV - Experience high-resolution, ultra-wide FOV footage that immerses you in the action. From riding epic waves to flaunting your skate skills, Action 4 delivers captivating slow-motion shots. Perfect for every adventure with this sports camera 4k action camera.
- EXCEPTIONAL COLD-WEATHER PERFORMANCE - Never miss a moment, even in extreme cold. The DJI Osmo Action 4 operates flawlessly in temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) and records continuously for up to 150 minutes. It's the best waterproof action camera for any adventure.
Real-World Use Cases: Where the DJI OSMO Action 4 Excels
The DJI OSMO Action 4 isn’t just about specs—it’s about how those features translate into real-world performance. Whether you’re an extreme sports junkie, a vlogger, or someone who wants to document life’s adventures, this camera has you covered. Let’s dive into some of the best use cases for this action camera.
1. Extreme Sports and Outdoor Adventures
If you’re into mountain biking, snowboarding, surfing, or rock climbing, the OSMO Action 4 is built for you. Its RockSteady 3.0 stabilization ensures smooth footage even when you’re tackling bumpy trails or carving through powder. Plus, the 18m waterproof rating means you can take it underwater without worrying about a case.
Imagine strapping this camera to your helmet as you bomb down a steep trail. The ultra-wide 155° field of view captures every twist and turn, while the magnetic mounting system makes it easy to reposition the camera for different angles. And if you’re hitting the slopes in freezing weather, the battery’s ability to function at -20°C ensures you won’t miss a moment.
Pro Tip: Use the HorizonSteady mode for activities like skiing or skateboarding to keep your footage perfectly leveled—even if you’re flipping upside down!
2. Vlogging and Content Creation
For vloggers and content creators, the dual touchscreen design is a lifesaver. The front-facing screen makes framing your shots effortless, whether you’re walking through a busy city or sharing your thoughts from a quiet hiking trail. The 10-bit D-Log M color profile also gives you incredible flexibility in post-production, allowing you to create cinematic-grade videos.
One travel vlogger shared their experience: “I used the OSMO Action 4 during my road trip across Iceland. The front screen was perfect for recording myself while narrating, and the magnetic mounts made it easy to switch between my car dashboard and handheld shots.”
Pair this with a good tool belt to carry your camera accessories on the go, and you’re set for any adventure.
3. Underwater Exploration
Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear waters or diving deeper with a waterproof case (up to 60m), the OSMO Action 4 excels underwater. Its larger sensor captures more light, resulting in vibrant colors and sharp details even in dim conditions.
The magnetic mounting system is also handy here—you can attach it to a diving mask mount or a selfie stick without fumbling with screws. And with its improved waterproofing compared to GoPro (18m vs. 10m), it’s better suited for spontaneous water adventures.
Pro Tip: Use the “Underwater” color mode to automatically adjust white balance and enhance underwater footage.
4. Low-Light Adventures
If you’ve ever tried filming at night or in dimly lit environments, you know how challenging it can be. Thanks to its larger sensor and advanced noise reduction settings, the OSMO Action 4 delivers impressive results in low light.
For example:
- Camping trips: Capture detailed footage around the campfire.
- Urban exploration: Film vibrant cityscapes at night.
- Indoor sports: Record fast-paced action without excessive grain.
One user tested it during a late-night hike: “The low-light performance blew me away. I could see details in shadows that my old GoPro completely missed.”
- DJI USA AUTHORIZED - Includes 1 Year Extended Protection Plan in ADDITION to the Included Manufacturer Protection
- UNMATCHED IMAGE QUALITY IN ALL CONDITIONS - Capture every moment in stunning clarity with the DJI Osmo Action 4's large 1/1.3-inch sensor. This action camera 4k excels in low-light conditions, ensuring your adventures are always documented in breathtaking detail, whether it's dawn or dusk.
- IMMERSIVE COLOR PERFORMANCE - Bring your footage to life with 10-bit and D-Log M Color Performance. The DJI Osmo Action 4 delivers vivid, true-to-life colors, making your sunrise and sunset shots spectacular. Stand out with the pro extreme 4k action camera capabilities.
- IMPRESSIVE 4K/120fps and 155º Ultra-Wide FOV - Experience high-resolution, ultra-wide FOV footage that immerses you in the action. From riding epic waves to flaunting your skate skills, Action 4 delivers captivating slow-motion shots. Perfect for every adventure with this sports camera 4k action camera.
- EXCEPTIONAL COLD-WEATHER PERFORMANCE - Never miss a moment, even in extreme cold. The DJI Osmo Action 4 operates flawlessly in temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) and records continuously for up to 150 minutes. It's the best waterproof action camera for any adventure.
Accessories That Enhance Your Experience
To get the most out of your DJI OSMO Action 4, consider investing in some key accessories:
| Accessory | Purpose | Why It’s Useful |
|---|---|---|
| Magnetic Ball-Joint Adapter Mount | Versatile mounting | Allows flexible angles for creative shots |
| Waterproof Case | Deeper dives | Extends waterproofing up to 60m |
| ND Filters | Exposure control | Essential for bright environments like deserts or snowy mountains |
| External Microphone Adapter | Better audio | Ideal for vloggers who need professional sound quality |
| Extra Batteries | Longer shoots | Ensure you never run out of juice during extended adventures |
These accessories are like having the right cordless drill—they make your work easier and more efficient.
Comparing DJI OSMO Action 4 vs GoPro Hero 12 for Specific Scenarios
Let’s break down which camera is better suited for different activities:
| Scenario | DJI OSMO Action 4 | GoPro Hero 12 |
|---|---|---|
| Vlogging | Dual touchscreens; better usability | Higher resolution but no front touchscreen |
| Extreme Sports | Superior stabilization; magnetic mounts | Comparable stabilization; bulkier mounts |
| Underwater Filming | Waterproof up to 18m; better low-light | Waterproof up to 10m; less vibrant colors |
| Low-Light Shooting | Larger sensor; excellent performance | Struggles in very dark conditions |
| Battery Life | Longer runtime; cold-resistant | Shorter runtime in extreme conditions |
For DIY enthusiasts who appreciate tools that perform well under pressure (like mini chainsaws), the OSMO Action 4 feels like a natural choice—it’s reliable, versatile, and user-friendly.
Final Thoughts: Is the DJI OSMO Action 4 Worth It?
After thoroughly testing and comparing the DJI OSMO Action 4 with its competitors, it’s clear that this camera is more than just an alternative to GoPro—it’s a serious contender that excels in several key areas:
- Outstanding low-light performance
- Intuitive magnetic mounting system
- Dual touchscreens for easy operation
- Durable build with superior waterproofing
While GoPro still holds an edge in maximum resolution (5.3K vs. 4K), most users will find that the practical advantages of the OSMO Action 4 outweigh this difference—especially if you’re shooting in challenging environments or need a camera that adapts quickly to different scenarios.
If you’re someone who values rugged reliability and top-notch video quality (like those who rely on work jackets for tough jobs), then yes—the DJI OSMO Action 4 is absolutely worth considering.
Related Reads on ProTGuide:
Got questions about action cameras or need help choosing accessories? Drop them in the comments below! 😊
- DJI USA AUTHORIZED - Includes 1 Year Extended Protection Plan in ADDITION to the Included Manufacturer Protection
- UNMATCHED IMAGE QUALITY IN ALL CONDITIONS - Capture every moment in stunning clarity with the DJI Osmo Action 4's large 1/1.3-inch sensor. This action camera 4k excels in low-light conditions, ensuring your adventures are always documented in breathtaking detail, whether it's dawn or dusk.
- IMMERSIVE COLOR PERFORMANCE - Bring your footage to life with 10-bit and D-Log M Color Performance. The DJI Osmo Action 4 delivers vivid, true-to-life colors, making your sunrise and sunset shots spectacular. Stand out with the pro extreme 4k action camera capabilities.
- IMPRESSIVE 4K/120fps and 155º Ultra-Wide FOV - Experience high-resolution, ultra-wide FOV footage that immerses you in the action. From riding epic waves to flaunting your skate skills, Action 4 delivers captivating slow-motion shots. Perfect for every adventure with this sports camera 4k action camera.
- EXCEPTIONAL COLD-WEATHER PERFORMANCE - Never miss a moment, even in extreme cold. The DJI Osmo Action 4 operates flawlessly in temperatures as low as -20°C (-4°F) and records continuously for up to 150 minutes. It's the best waterproof action camera for any adventure.
