Osmo Unleashed: DJI Action 4

We've had the privilege of putting the Osmo Action 4, DJI's flagship action camera, through its paces over the past week. Our comprehensive review delves into the extraordinary features and capabilities that this cutting-edge device brings to the table.

Upon unboxing, the Osmo Action 4 immediately impresses with a complete set of attachments, meticulously organized into two compartments. While one compartment houses the Osmo Action 4 itself, the other is a treasure trove of accessories, including the standout magnetic clamp that offers a seamless and secure connection. This clamp, designed for vertical orientation, boasts an effortless click-and-lock mechanism, setting a new standard for mounting options in the industry. Notably, the Action 4's shell ensures a firm fit during transitions between vertical and horizontal configurations, making it a breeze to shoot vertically without any adjustments.

The Action 4's user experience is elevated by its dual screens – a front screen and an intuitive touch screen. This combination grants unparalleled ease in adjusting settings, reviewing files, and toggling shooting modes while in the midst of recording captivating moments.

At the heart of the DJI Action 4 is the exceptional D-Log M color profile, activated via a dedicated button. This profile unlocks the potential of 10-bit video, enriching dynamic range beyond the confines of conventional 8-bit profiles. The results are vividly apparent in enhanced color management, capturing nuanced highlights and shadows that elevate your content creation.

Stability and video quality stand out as hallmark features of the Action 4. With the ability to shoot 4K at 120 frames per second and equipped with front and rear touch displays, the Action 4 ensures smooth, shake-free footage. Building upon the already commendable stabilization of its predecessor, the Action 4 excels even during active scenarios, providing remarkably stable visuals. The horizon stabilization function further extends this stability by allowing seamless rotation while maintaining a level horizon, yielding impeccably straight shots. This innovation becomes particularly valuable for dynamic action shots, especially when the camera is rotated beyond 45 degrees. An important caveat is that this mode supports 4K 60fps recording exclusively, as recording at 120 frames per second disables this feature.

Audio quality on the Action 4 is a symphony of precision, recorded in stereo through strategically placed microphones at the front and atop the camera. While facing the audio source, the audio quality is nothing short of superb, though a slight dip in quality occurs when the camera is turned away. This characteristic, inherent in the stereo audio setup, is a minor compromise considering the overall audio excellence.

Versatility defines the Action 4's prowess, enabling shooting across various resolutions and frame rates. Switching between video and photo modes is streamlined with three distinct setup presets – C1, C2, and C3 – providing quick access to preferred settings for a seamless shooting experience.

The Action 4's battery life is commendable, lasting up to 160 minutes and supporting rapid charging, achieving a full charge in just 50 to 60 minutes. In 4K shooting, the battery stretches up to 5 hours, making it ideal for extended recording sessions. The camera's zooming capabilities, offering a digital zoom of up to 2x, add further versatility. Our review did note a minor challenge in terminating video recording, which can take a few attempts. However, using voice commands to initiate and cease video recording sidesteps this issue. As a notable addition, the Action 4 combination pack includes a 6-foot 2-inch extension stick, elevating your vantage point for intriguing shots.

In conclusion, the DJI Osmo Action 4 emerges as a compelling 4K action camera, flaunting standout features and capabilities that set it apart. Its adaptable design, impressive stability, and exceptional audio quality position it as a robust competitor within the action camera industry. Priced at approximately Rs40,000, the Action 4 presents an appealing alternative to the GoPro 11. Its emphasis on 4K aligns well with the prevailing trends of social media support for 1080p and 4K content. With its larger sensor size and enhanced functionalities, the DJI Osmo Action 4 emerges as an innovative solution for both seasoned video creators and enthusiastic amateurs alike.

For an in-depth look at specifications and features, visit: DJI Osmo Action 4