While DJI Osmo Pocket 3 delivers better low-light performance, the Action 4 boasts better endurance for recording underwater or in extreme weather conditions. Pocket 3 also relies on its 3-axis mechanical gimbal for stabilization, while Action 4 uses electronic image stabilization to achieve smoother footage.
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vs Action 4: 5 Things to Compare
By Naila Syifa
Updated December 2023
In 2023, DJI released two new action cameras: the Osmo Pocket 3 and the Action 4. Both cameras share some similar features, such as 4K resolution and image stabilization, but they differ in a few key areas. Let's take a look at 5 things to compare between these two cameras to find out which one is the best for your needs.
Key Takeaways
While DJI Osmo Pocket 3 delivers better low-light performance, the Action 4 boasts better endurance for recording underwater or in extreme weather conditions. Pocket 3 also relies on its 3-axis mechanical gimbal for stabilization, while Action 4 uses electronic image stabilization to achieve smoother footage.
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
Exceptional Gimbal Camera
✓ 4K Video, 9.4 MP Photo
✓ 1” CMOS Sensor
✓ 3-Axis Stabilization
✓ Rotatable OLED Screen
DJI Osmo Action 4
True Action Camera
✓ 4K Video, 10 MP Photo
✓ 1/1.3” CMOS Sensor
✓ RockSteady 3.0+ and HorizonSteady
✓ Waterproof to 18m
#1 Price
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and DJI Osmo Action 4 are priced quite expensively, making them not the most budget-friendly options in the market. However, the Action 4 is significantly cheaper than the Pocket 3, retailing at around US$399 while the Pocket 3 costs around US$519. Undeniably, this price difference could be a deciding factor for many buyers.
#2 Design
DJI Osmo Action 4
Visually, both action cameras look quite different. The DJI Osmo Action 4 features a typical action camera design with a rectangular shape and two screens on the front and rear side, while the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has a unique compact design resembling a small handheld gimbal with a rotatable touchscreen display on the front.
DJI Osmo Action 4 has an edge with its waterproof design that allows it to be used underwater to 18m without a separate housing. It can also stand extreme temperatures ranging from -20° to 45° C, and its lightweight body weighing only 145 g makes it a great choice for outdoor activities and adventures.
The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is also lightweight at 179 g, though it is still heavier than the Action 4. However, it is important to note that the Pocket 3 is not waterproof and is not suitable for cold temperatures below 0°C. Thus, it may not be the perfect action camera to bring on all your outdoor adventures.
#3 Video Quality
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
Both cameras share a maximum video resolution of 4K/60 fps for normal video and 4K/120 fps for slow-motion video. The photo resolution supported by the Action 4 is slightly higher at 10 MP, though not a significant difference compared to the Pocket 3's 9.4 MP.
When it comes to video quality, one major difference between the two cameras is their low-light performance. The Action 4 is equipped with a large 1/1.3" CMOS sensor with an F/2.8 aperture, which gives it an edge over most other action cameras in low light conditions. However, the Pocket 3 boasts an even larger sensor of 1" and a wider aperture of F/2.0, resulting in excellent low light performance that is superior to the Action 4.
#4 Features
Timecode Function
In terms of features, both the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and DJI Osmo Action 4 share a lot of similarities, such as webcam support, live streaming, built-in timecode for easier synchronization of multiple cameras, and AI-powered editing with the LightCut app. One difference is that the Action 4 also offers voice control for hands-free operation, while the Pocket 3 doesn't.
Both cameras are also equipped with their own image stabilization technology. The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 features three-axis mechanical stabilization, while the DJI Osmo Action 4 boasts RockSteady 3.0 technology that uses electronic image stabilization combined with complex algorithms. Though different, both image stabilization technologies are effective in delivering smooth and stable footage even in the most extreme conditions.
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
Various modes are also available in both cameras to enhance your video, such as Hyperlapse, Slow Motion, and Timelapse. One difference is that the Pocket 3 also offers Motionlapse, which is a moving timelapse that adds a dynamic element to your footage.
The Action 4 doesn't have Motionlapse, but it offers a Pre-recording feature that the Pocket 3 doesn't have. Like the HindSight feature in GoPro, the Pre-recording feature in the Action 4 allows you to save footage of up to 60 seconds before you press the record button, ensuring that you never miss a moment. This is helpful when you're not sure when the action will happen, such as in sports or fishing.
#5 Battery Life
DJI Osmo Action 4
In terms of battery capacity, the Action 4 wins with a large battery capacity of 1770 mAh, while the Pocket 3 only has a battery capacity of 1300 mAh.
However, in terms of battery life, the Pocket 3 lasts longer than the Action 4, with up to 116 minutes of recording in 4K/60 fps and 166 minutes in 1080p/24 fps. On the other hand, the Action 4 has a battery life of around 70 minutes in 4K/120 fps and 160 minutes in 1080p/24 fps.
One thing that both cameras have in common is that their batteries support fast charging, which allows you to quickly recharge the battery to 80% of capacity in just 16-18 minutes.
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vs DJI Osmo Action 4
Final Thoughts
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
Overall, both the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and the DJI Osmo Action 4 have their respective strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, it comes down to your personal preferences and needs.
If you are looking for an action camera that is more budget-friendly, has a waterproof design, can stand extreme cold temperatures, and has a Pre-recording feature, then the Action 4 might be the better choice for you.
However, if you often shoot in low-light conditions and want an action camera with excellent low-light performance and longer battery life, then the Pocket 3 might be the better option for you.
If you like to read more about Action Camera, check out our other relevant guides here:
Insta360 Ace vs Ace Pro
Insta360 Ace Pro vs GoPro Hero 12
Insta360 Ace Pro vs DJI Action 4
Insta360 Ace Pro vs Insta360 X3
Insta360 Ace Pro vs DJI Osmo Pocket 3
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vs Pocket 2
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vs GoPro Hero 12
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vs Insta360 X3
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 vs Insta360 GO 3
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