Why Every Adventure Enthusiast Needs a DJI Osmo Action 4 in Their Gear Bag

Why Every Adventure Enthusiast Needs a DJI Osmo Action 4 in Their Gear Bag

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Choosing an action camera is just about as complex as comparing and choosing a new computer; there’s so many options to choose from. Where do we start in the buying experience to ensure we get the features that are needed…or wanted?

When it comes to action cameras, DJI is a name synonymous with innovation and reliability. The drone footage is crazy cool! Why wouldn’t the expectation be the same for their action cameras?!

The DJI Osmo Action 4  [Amazon affiliate link] takes this legacy forward with its impressive features tailored for travelers, sports enthusiasts, and vloggers. Here’s why this waterproof action camera deserves your attention:

Key Features at a Glance

  • 4K Video with 1/1.3″ Sensor: The larger sensor delivers exceptional video quality, especially in challenging lighting conditions. Whether it’s a bright sunny day or a dimly lit adventure, the Osmo Action 4 ensures clarity and vibrancy.
  • Low-Light Imaging: Low-light performance is often a weak spot for action cameras, but DJI has nailed it this area. From capturing sunsets to underwater adventures, the low-light capability sets this unit apart.
  • Long Battery Life: The 160-minute battery runtime is a significant advantage, especially for long hikes, day-long sporting events, or extended underwater shoots.
  • Stabilization Technology: DJI’s advanced stabilization ensures smooth footage, even in the roughest conditions, perfect for kayaking, cycling, skiing, or running.
  • Dual Touchscreens: The front and back touchscreens make vlogging a breeze, allowing seamless operation from any angle.
  • Waterproof Design: The robust waterproofing (down to 18 meters, or 59 feet) makes it ideal for snorkeling, diving, or shooting in unpredictable weather. Let me tell you, that happens far too much on Missouri lakes! Yikes!

Performance

I tested the Osmo Action 4 during a recent kayaking trip, and the results were phenomenal. The RockSteady 3.0 Stabilization delivered ultra-smooth footage, even on rougher waters (boy the wind was rough that day!  The colors and details were sharp and vibrant, capturing the energy of the waves and the amazing eagles over head!

The low-light performance stood out while filming dusk sunset sky. Unlike other action cameras that struggle in dim settings, the Osmo Action 4 preserved detail and minimized noise.

Ease of Use

The dual touchscreens are intuitive and responsive, making it easy to switch between modes or frame shots. Even with gloves on, navigating the interface felt smooth. Pairing with the DJI Mimo app was seamless, offering additional features like real-time previews and editing tools.

Versatility

This camera isn’t just for thrill-seekers. It doubles as a reliable vlogging companion, thanks to its dual screens and microphone compatibility. The compact design makes it portable enough for casual family outings or professional shoots.

Pros:

  • Exceptional video and photo quality, even in low light.
  • Robust stabilization for smooth footage.
  • Long-lasting battery life.
  • Dual touchscreens for easy operation.
  • Waterproof and durable design.

Cons:

  • Can be a higher price point that other brands. Currently, this unit can be bought for about $210 on Amazon, saving some money (especially vs the Action 5!).
  • Accessories like mounts may need to be purchased separately.

Action Camera Comparison: DJI Osmos Action 4 vs. DJI Osmos Action 5

The DJI Osmo Action 4 and Action 5 are both excellent action cameras, but they cater to slightly different needs based on their features. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the two models:

1. Image and Video Quality

  • Action 4: Features a 10MP sensor and supports 4K video at 60fps. It excels in low-light performance with its 1/1.3-inch sensor and HDR capabilities, ensuring clear and vibrant footage.
  • Action 5: Upgrades to a 16MP sensor with 4K video at 120fps for smoother slow-motion footage. It also includes enhanced color accuracy and dynamic range, making it better for professional-grade content.

2. Stabilization

  • Action 4: Equipped with RockSteady 3.0 stabilization, which ensures smooth footage during high-motion activities.
  • Action 5: Introduces RockSteady 4.0, improving stabilization further and performing better in low-light conditions.

3. Waterproofing and Durability

  • Action 4: Waterproof up to 18 meters without a case.
  • Action 5: Can go deeper, up to 20 meters without a case, and offers improved durability for extreme conditions.

4. Battery Life

  • Both models offer impressive battery life at about 160 minutes of continuous recording, but the Action 5 features slight optimizations for better longevity and faster full charging times.

5. Built-in Storage

  • Action 4: Relies solely on external microSD cards for storage.
  • Action 5: Comes with 47GB of internal storage, offering more flexibility for casual users or backup needs.

6. Advanced Features

  • Action 4: Provides basic connectivity options like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth and a straightforward interface.
  • Action 5: Adds Wi-Fi 6 for faster file transfers, gesture control for hands-free operation, and a refined user interface with quicker touch response.

7. Price

  • The Action 4 is priced more affordably, making it a great choice for most casual users.
  • The Action 5 is more expensive, justified by its advanced features and higher performance​.
 

Amazon – Osmos Action 5​

Recommendation

  • Choose the Action 4 if you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly action camera with excellent low-light performance and stabilization. 
  • Choose the Action 5 if you need top-tier features like higher resolution, advanced stabilization, and additional durability, especially for professional use or extreme conditions.

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