The DJI Osmo Action 4 is DJI’s latest flagship in their Action line, offering upgraded sensor performance, dual touchscreens, rugged waterproofing, and creative video/photo modes. It’s aimed at creators, adventurers, vloggers who need high-quality video, strong low-light capability, and flexibility without compromising in tough conditions. Below is everything you should know about its specs, real-world performance, pros & cons, comparisons, use cases, and whether it’s right for you.
Key Features & Specifications
What’s New & What Makes It Stand Out
- Bigger, improved sensor (1/1.3-inch) for better low light performance compared to earlier generations.
- 10-bit D-Log M color profile for post production flexibility and improved color grading.
- Dual high-quality screens with good brightness (~750 cd/m²) so you get usable viewing in outdoor bright sunlight.
- Longer battery life under certain conditions (notably lower resolutions, settings) to support full-day adventure shooting.
- Solid waterproofing: 18 m without case, 60 m with case, and rugged build for harsh conditions.
Real-World Performance
Image & Video Quality
In daylight and good lighting, the Osmo Action 4 delivers vivid, sharp footage. The color rendering is excellent, especially using D-Log M with proper post processing. Footage in 4K/120 fps gives smooth motion and dramatic slowmo when needed.
Low Light & Dynamic Range
The larger sensor gives it an edge in low light vs older models; noise is better controlled. Still, like all small action cameras, pushing ISO too high introduces noise. The D-Log M mode helps retain detail in highlights & shadows.
Stabilization & Horizon Leveling
RockSteady 3.0 is very capable; HorizonSteady helps keep the horizon level even with tilts and movement. Great for action shots like biking, kayaking, etc. Some minor distortion or edge artifacts can appear if using ultra-wide FOV in extreme motion.
Battery Life & Heat Management
The quoted 160 minutes under favorable conditions is realistic when using modest settings. High resolution + high fps + screens on + stabilization all at once drains battery faster and may produce warmth. In cold conditions, battery life is also reduced.
Usability & Accessories
The magnetic quick release mount makes mounting and dismounting fast. Dual screens (front and rear) help frame shots for vloggers or selfies. Vertical shooting is natively supported with the proper frame/mount. The UI via DJI Mimo app + firmware seems stable.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Strong sensor & better low-light performance.
- High frame rate support (4K120, etc.) with smooth motion options.
- Excellent build & waterproofing.
- Dual, high-quality screens with good visibility outdoors.
- Flexible color profiles for advanced users (10-bit, D-Log M).
- Good battery life in many usage scenarios.
Cons
- No 5.3K or 6K—still limited to 4K for highest resolution (though frame rates help).
- When using high fps & resolution together, battery drains faster & heat may build up.
- Ultra-wide FOV sometimes introduces distortion at edges.
- More expensive than basic action cams; may be overkill for casual users.
Comparisons
| Model/Competitor | What Osmo Action 4 Does Better | What Others May Do Better |
| Osmo Action 3 | Better sensor (1/1.3-inch vs smaller), 10-bit D-Log M, improved low light, potentially better battery performance in similar settings. | Osmo Action 3 might be cheaper; older accessories may suffice; lower complexity for casual users. |
| GoPro Hero 12 / Hero 11 | Sensor & color profile improvements, strong battery; good value vs GoPro in some bundles. | GoPro may offer better image stabilization in some modes, larger ecosystem, more software tools. |
| Other action cams in same price bracket | Osmo Action 4 combines good features: waterproof, dual screens, high fps, large sensor. | Others might offer higher resolution or specialized modes (e.g. horizon lock at 4K etc.) or better optics in certain use cases. |
Who It’s Best For
- Adventurers and extreme sports users who need rugged gear and solid image quality.
- Vloggers who shoot in varied lighting & need front screen / dual screen setup.
- Content creators who want post-production flexibility (color grading, slow motion).
- Underwater/shallow dive shooters who need waterproofing.
If you are mostly shooting indoors, or only need basic action cam functionality (1080p, casual use), then this might be more than you need.
FAQs
Q1: What is HorizonSteady & how good is it on Action 4?
It’s DJI’s horizon leveling feature it keeps the horizon steady even when you tilt the camera. Works well in supported resolutions (1080p, 2.7K etc.) as per DJI.
Q2: Can I shoot slow motion?
Yes, up to 1080p at 240 fps, and 2.7K/4K up to 120 fps depending on resolution.
Q3: How deep waterproof?
Rated to 18 m (≈ 60 ft) without case; with waterproof case, up to 60 m.
Q4: What color profiles are available?
Supports 10-bit D-Log M, which gives flat color for color grading, as well as standard color modes.
Q5: What is the battery life?
DJI claims up to ~160 minutes in ideal conditions (1080p/24fps, RockSteady on, screens off, temperature ~25°C). Real life will vary.
Q6: What mounts and accessories are available?
Quick-release magnetic mount included; protective frames for vertical shooting; waterproof case; extension rods etc via DJI accessories.
Q7: How big & heavy is it?
Approx dimensions: 70.5 × 44.2 × 32.8 mm; weight ~145 g.
Verdict
The DJI Osmo Action 4 is a very strong action camera for 2023-2025. It improves on many fronts compared to its predecessors: sensor size, color profile, video capabilities, screens, and ruggedness. For creators who want serious image quality, durability, and versatile features, it’s among the top choices in its class. For casual users, simpler or cheaper options might suffice, but you’ll get extra value here especially if you edit, color grade, shoot action, or under challenging lighting.
