If you’re curious about the latest buzz in the action camera world, let’s talk about the DJI Osmo Action 4 vs Osmo Action 2.
The DJI Osmo Action 4, released in August 2023, is a fresh and exciting addition, packed with features that really make it stand out from its earlier version.
In this article, I’ll dive into a detailed comparison of these cameras.
Plus, I’ll share my personal opinion on whether you should upgrade or not.
QUICK TAKE
- Osmo Action 4 has better low-light performance
- Osmo Action 4 supports 4K video at 120fps, while Osmo Action 2’s 4K at 60fps
- Osmo Action 4 is waterproof up to 18 meters without a case, outperforming the Osmo Action 2, which is waterproof up to 11 meters without a case
- Osmo Action 4 has a longer battery life
Specs Comparison Table
To begin with, let’s have a specs comparison between DJI Osmo Action 4 vs Osmo Action 2 with the following table:
| Specs | Osmo Action 4 | Osmo Action 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | 1/1.3-inch CMOS | 1/1.7-inch CMOS |
| Lens | f/2.8, 155° FOV | f/2.8, 145° FOV |
| Video Resolution | Up to 4K (3840×2160) @ 120fps | Up to 4K (3840×2160) @ 60fps |
| Photo Resolution | Up to 10 MP (3648×2736) | Up to 12 MP (4000×3000) |
| Stabilization | RockSteady 3.0/3.0+, HorizonBalancing/HorizonSteady | RockSteady |
| Color Mode | D-Log M (10-bit) | Normal/Cinelike |
| Waterproof | Up to 18 m without case, up to 60 m with case | Up to 11 m without case, up to 60 m with case |
| Battery Life | Up to 3 hours @ 1080p/30fps | Up to 2 hours @ 1080p/30fps |
| Touchscreens | Front: 1.4-inch, Rear: 2.25-inch | Front: 1.4-inch, Rear: 2.25-inch |
| Microphones | 3 | 2 |
| Built-in Storage | No | No |
| SD Card Support | Up to 512 GB | Up to 256 GB |
As you can see from the table, the Osmo Action 4 has some significant improvements over the Osmo Action 2 in terms of video quality, stabilization, color mode, and battery life.
DJI Osmo Action 4 Overview
The DJI Osmo Action 4 is DJI’s latest and most advanced action camera.
With its larger image sensor, it captures stunningly bright and sharp images, while its ability to record 4K video at 120 fps opens up exciting possibilities for slow-motion effects.
The camera supports 10-bit D-Log M color mode, granting users greater freedom in post-processing their videos.
The dual screens, front and back, make it incredibly convenient to monitor shots from any angle.
Not only does the Osmo Action 4 deliver exceptional imaging performance, but it also boasts impressive durability. Waterproof up to 18 meters without needing a case, and featuring a water-repellent lens coating, it thrives even in challenging environments.
The integrated RockSteady stabilization ensures smooth and steady footage, eliminating camera shake and providing professional-grade results.
The HorizonSteady mode keeps the horizon level even when the camera is tilted or rotated, maintaining a seamless viewing experience.
- Impeccable Image Quality, Day or Night - Experience stunning image clarity and...
- Vivid, True-to-Life Colors - Elevate your footage using 10-bit and D-Log M Color...
- Long-Lasting Power, Even in Extreme Cold - Tackle low temperatures of -20°C (-4°F)...
DJI Osmo Action 2 Overview
The DJI Osmo Action 2 is a compact and versatile action camera that can capture stunning 4K videos and 12MP photos in various modes and settings.
It features a magnetic design that allows you to easily attach and detach different accessories, such as the power module, the dual-screen module, or the waterproof case.
The camera also has a built-in stabilization system that ensures smooth and stable footage in any situation.
The camera has a user-friendly interface and a touch screen that lets you adjust settings and preview your shots.
You can also use the DJI Mimo app to edit your videos with AI-powered tools and upload them to social media platforms.
The Osmo Action 2 is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful and portable action camera that can handle any challenge.
- Snap Into Your Environment - Action 2's innovative magnetic design allows you to...
- Action on the Go - The ultra-compact DJI Action 2 takes up next to no room in your...
- Footage That Speaks for Itself - Record stunningly smooth 4K/120fps video with richer...
Detailed Comparison
Here’s the head-to-head comparison of various features that the two cameras boast:
Sensor & Lens
When you’re looking to buy an action camera, one of the most important things to think about is the sensor and lens quality.
The sensor decides how much light the camera can capture, and the lens determines how wide the view is.
The Osmo Action 4 has a bigger sensor compared to the Osmo Action 2: 1/1.3-inch CMOS versus 1/2.3-inch CMOS. This means the Osmo Action 4 can take sharper and more detailed images, especially in low-light situations.
The Osmo Action 4 also has a wider lens compared to the Osmo Action 2: f/2.8, 155° FOV versus f/2.8, 145° FOV.
That means the Osmo Action 4 captures more of the scene in front of you, giving you a more immersive experience.
Video Resolution & Stabilization
A critical factor to consider when getting an action camera is the video resolution and stabilization.
The video resolution determines how clear and smooth your videos look, while the stabilization decides how steady and stable they are.
The Osmo Action 4 has a higher video resolution than the Osmo Action 2: up to 4K (3840×2160) @ 120fps versus up to 4K (3840×2160) @ 60fps.
Therefore, the Osmo Action 4 can record ultra-high-definition videos with more frames per second, giving you more realistic and fluid motion.
When it comes to stabilization, the Osmo Action 4 also has a more advanced stabilization system compared to the Osmo Action 2: RockSteady 3.0/3.0+, HorizonBalancing/HorizonSteady versus RockSteady.
So, the Osmo Action 4 can reduce camera shake and keep your horizon level, even when you’re moving fast or changing directions.
Color Mode
Another significant consideration when buying an action camera is the color mode.
The color mode affects how vivid and accurate your colors appear, and the waterproofing determines how deep you can take your camera underwater.
The Osmo Action 4 offers a more professional color mode than the Osmo Action 2: D-Log M (10-bit) versus Normal/Cinelike.
It means that the Osmo Action 4 can record videos with more dynamic range and color depth, giving you greater flexibility and creativity in post-production.
Waterproofing
When it comes to taking your action camera on aquatic adventures, the Osmo Action 4 emerges as a true champion in waterproofing capabilities.
With an impressive waterproof rating of up to 18 meters without the need for an additional case, the Osmo Action 4 confidently takes on various water environments, allowing you to capture stunning footage while swimming, snorkeling, or even in shallow dives.
Compared to its predecessor, the Osmo Action 2, which boasts a respectable waterproof rating of up to 11 meters without a case, the Osmo Action 4 raises the bar significantly, granting you the freedom to explore deeper underwater realms.
Battery Life
A very crucial aspect to consider when buying an action camera is the battery life.
The battery life determines how long you can use your camera without recharging, and the touchscreens affect how easy it is to control your camera settings and preview your shots.
The Osmo Action 4 has a longer battery life compared to the Osmo Action 2: up to 3 hours @ 1080p/30fps versus up to 2 hours @ 1080p/30fps.
This means the Osmo Action 4 can last longer on a single charge, allowing you to capture more moments without interruption.
Touchscreens
Both the Osmo Action 4 and the Osmo Action 2 come equipped with user-friendly dual touchscreens that make navigating and controlling the camera a breeze.
With these touchscreens, you have the flexibility to effortlessly switch between selfie and landscape modes, giving you the freedom to capture yourself or the stunning scenery around you with ease.
The front touchscreen, sized at 1.4 inches, lets you frame yourself perfectly in selfies, while the larger 2.25-inch rear touchscreen provides a clear and detailed preview of your shots, ensuring you never miss the perfect moment.
Microphones
When it comes to audio recording, the Osmo Action 4 takes the lead with its advanced microphone system. Featuring three microphones, this camera excels in capturing crystal-clear audio with rich detail, ensuring that the sounds in your videos are as captivating as the visuals.
The additional microphone not only enhances the overall audio quality but also plays a vital role in minimizing wind noise. So
Storage
With the Osmo Action 4, you can unleash your creativity without constraints, thanks to its impressive SD card support.
This camera is equipped to handle SD cards with a capacity of up to 512 GB, doubling the storage potential compared to the Osmo Action 2, which supports SD cards of up to 256 GB.
This expanded storage capability means you can capture and store more of your favorite moments, extended adventures, and stunning visuals without worrying about running out of space.
Find the best SD cards for DJI Osmo Action cameras:
Get to know how to choose SD card and what parameters it should have by reading DJI Osmo Action 4 SD Card Size Recommendations.
Price
As you must have noticed by now, the DJI Osmo Action 4 has more features and better performance than the Osmo Action 2. However, it also comes with a higher price tag.
Check Current Price of DJI Osmo Action 4:
- Impeccable Image Quality, Day or Night - Experience stunning image clarity and...
- Vivid, True-to-Life Colors - Elevate your footage using 10-bit and D-Log M Color...
- Long-Lasting Power, Even in Extreme Cold - Tackle low temperatures of -20°C (-4°F)...
Check Current Price of DJI Osmo Action 2:
- Snap Into Your Environment - Action 2's innovative magnetic design allows you to...
- Action on the Go - The ultra-compact DJI Action 2 takes up next to no room in your...
- Footage That Speaks for Itself - Record stunningly smooth 4K/120fps video with richer...
So, it’s important that you weigh your budget and your needs before making a decision.
Final Thoughts
More comparisons for your right decision:
- DJI Osmo Action 4 vs 3 vs 2: How Do They Compare?
- DJI Osmo Action 4 vs Osmo Action 3: Worth the Upgrade?
Thanks for reading! 🙏
I hope this guide helped you learn which one is better – DJI Osmo Action 4 or Action 2 🙂
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