A family travel YouTuber's hands-on review! DJI Osmo Action 4 vs. 5. Beyond a spec comparison, we'll share insights on low-light performance, battery life, overheating issues, and more, including tips for finding the right model for you and finding the best value for your used purchase.
1. Pros and Cons of DJI Osmo Action 4
The DJI Osmo Action 4 is a popular camera among broadcasters and YouTubers. It's capable of stable shooting in any environment without any special handling.
The DJI Osmo Action 4 can record up to 4K 60fps, is waterproof up to 18m, has a 1.76" touchscreen, and supports microSD cards up to 512B.
While GoPro is known for its excellent color and high-definition video quality, the Osmo Action 4 is capable of shooting with relatively natural colors.
In my case, I chose the Osmo Action 4 because the GoPro has more heat issues when using the battery for a long time and the image quality is relatively stable when shooting in low light.
In particular, the built-in microphone located right below the lens with the letters 'ACTION4' is a directional microphone and boasts excellent sound pickup.
However, due to the limitations of the built-in microphone, you can connect the DJI wireless microphone to Bluetooth for superior sound pickup without having to connect a separate cable.
1. DJI Osmo Action 4 Advantages
- Various shooting modes : Supports various shooting modes such as action cam, time lapse, and slow motion, allowing for diverse video shooting.
- Convenient touchscreen : The intuitive operation via the touch screen makes it easy for users to use even for first-time users.
- Excellent waterproof performance : It boasts excellent waterproof performance, allowing you to shoot with confidence even at deep depths.
- Battery performance : Battery life and heat generation, two of the biggest concerns with action cameras, have been significantly improved.
1. DJI Osmo Action 4 Disadvantages
- Disappointing color temperature : The color temperature may be slightly lower, so it may be expressed differently from the actual color.
- Flare phenomenon : Flare may occur in backlit situations.
- high price : It has a somewhat higher price range compared to other action cameras.
- low light photography : Even if it's just a little bit dark, there are many regrets when shooting.
2. Comparison of DJI Osmo Action 4 and Action 5 specifications
The DJI Osmo Action series is loved by many action camera users for its excellent performance and portability.
In particular, the Osmo Action 4 and 5 each have their own unique appeal, leaving many people undecided on which model to choose. Let's take a look at the specifications and performance differences between the two models.
1. Specification comparison
| function | Osmo Action 4 | Osmo Action 5 |
| sensor | 1/1.7 inch CMOS | 1/1.3 inch CMOS |
| Resolution | Up to 4K/60fps | Up to 4K/120fps |
| lens | f/2.8, 155-degree FOV | f/2.8, 155-degree FOV |
| Waterproof | Up to 18m | Up to 20m |
| touchscreen | 1.76-inch touchscreen | 2.27-inch touchscreen |
| battery | 1300mAh | 1550mAh |
| Built-in memory | Up to 512GB microSD card | Up to 256GB microSD card |
| etc | Dual screen, low light compensation | Dual screen, low light compensation, HorizonSteady |
2. Performance comparison
- Image quality : The Action 5 features a larger sensor for sharper, clearer footage in low-light environments. It also supports 4K/120fps high-definition slow-motion shooting, allowing you to vividly capture dynamic moments.
- stabilization : The HorizonSteady feature of Action 5 further upgrades shake compensation performance to produce smoother footage.
- battery : The Action 5 has a larger battery capacity than the Action 4, allowing for longer shooting times.
- touchscreen : The Action 5 features a larger touchscreen for easier operation and improved touch response speed.
- etc : Action 5 offers more shooting modes and functions than Action 4, allowing you to capture more diverse videos.
3. Which model should I choose?
- If you want high-quality video and excellent stabilization, we recommend Action 5.
- If you want a model that prioritizes cost-effectiveness and sticks to basic features: Action 4 is recommended.
- Direct comparison video of the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro and DJI Osmo Action 4 image quality
In closing
I used the Osmo Action 4 for seven months while traveling, testing it in a variety of challenging environments. There were times when I found myself feeling a bit unsatisfied, such as when there wasn't enough light or the camera wasn't very user-friendly.
However, as an action camera, it's impeccable. If you're looking for a versatile action camera that can handle any environment, we recommend the DJI Osmo Action 5, which offers a variety of advantages.
