DJI Osmo Action 4 Camera Combo Review: Guide to This Game-Changing Action Camera

Action cameras have changed how we capture our adventures. The DJI Osmo Action 4 Camera Combo stands out as a powerful tool for creators, athletes, and travelers. This camera offers professional features at an affordable price. You get stunning 4K video quality, waterproof durability, and smart features that make filming easy.

Whether you ride a bike, dive underwater, or create vlogs, this camera delivers excellent results. The combo package includes everything you need to start filming right away. Let me share my detailed experience with this impressive action camera.

Key Takeaways

• Larger Sensor for Better Quality: The 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor captures stunning footage even in dim lighting conditions
• Extended Battery Life: You can film for up to 160 minutes on a single charge, which beats most competitors
• 4K/120fps Video: This camera shoots super smooth slow-motion videos that look professional
• Deep Waterproofing: The Action 4 works underwater down to 18 meters without any extra case needed
• Dual Touchscreens: Both front and back screens respond to touch, making setup and framing incredibly simple
• Value Package: The combo includes multiple batteries, charging case, and mounting accessories for complete shooting flexibility

DJI Osmo Action 4 Camera Standard Combo

The DJI Osmo Action 4 Camera Standard Combo brings professional filming capabilities to everyone. This camera uses advanced technology that was once only available in expensive equipment. The combo package gives you a complete filming solution. You receive the camera body, extra batteries, protective frames, mounting adapters, and cables. Everything fits together in a smart design. The camera feels solid in your hands. It weighs just 145 grams, so it stays light for long filming sessions. The 10-bit color depth and D-Log M color profile give you amazing editing flexibility. You can adjust colors and tones in post-production just like professional filmmakers do.

The camera body features a rugged build quality. It survives drops, bumps, and rough handling. The dual screen design makes this camera special. A 2-inch touchscreen on the back lets you frame your shots perfectly. A 1.4-inch front screen helps when you film yourself. Both screens work smoothly and respond quickly to touch. This design eliminates guesswork when you set up shots. The camera’s processor handles demanding tasks without overheating. You can shoot for hours in different conditions.

Sensor Size and Image Quality

The heart of any camera is its sensor. The Osmo Action 4 uses a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor that captures more light than smaller sensors. This larger sensor makes a huge difference in your footage quality. You get cleaner images with less noise, especially when you film in darker environments. The sensor pairs with an f/2.8 aperture that allows plenty of light to reach it. This combination produces images that look sharp and detailed.

Many users notice the improved low-light performance immediately. You can film sunrise sessions, sunset adventures, or evening events without worrying about grainy footage. The sensor delivers true-to-life colors that don’t look overly processed. Skin tones appear natural. Landscapes show accurate color reproduction. The dynamic range handles both bright skies and dark shadows in the same frame. This capability means you spend less time fixing exposure problems in editing.

Video Recording Capabilities

The Osmo Action 4 excels at video recording. It shoots 4K video at 120 frames per second, which opens up creative possibilities. You can create buttery-smooth slow-motion sequences that look cinematic. The camera also records in multiple frame rates to match your needs. Standard 4K at 60fps works great for everyday filming. The 1080p mode at even higher frame rates gives you extreme slow-motion options.

The RockSteady 3.0 stabilization keeps your footage smooth. This technology removes camera shake without making your video look artificial. You can run, jump, and move quickly while the camera maintains steady footage. The HorizonSteady feature keeps your horizon level even when the camera rotates. This works great for activities like skateboarding or mountain biking where the camera might twist during action.

Recording formats give you flexibility. The camera supports H.264 and H.265 codecs. The H.265 option saves storage space while maintaining quality. You can shoot for longer before switching memory cards. The 10-bit color recording captures over one billion colors. This depth gives you incredible room to adjust footage in color grading software.

Low Light Performance

Low light filming separates good cameras from great ones. The Osmo Action 4 performs exceptionally well when light gets dim. The larger sensor collects more photons, which reduces digital noise. The camera’s processing algorithms further clean up the image without losing detail. You can film indoor events, forest trails under tree cover, or nighttime activities with confidence.

The D-Log M color profile helps in challenging lighting situations. This flat color profile preserves more information in highlights and shadows. You gain flexibility when you edit to bring out details that might otherwise be lost. Many professional videographers praise this feature. It brings cinema-camera capabilities to a small action camera body. Even if you don’t use professional editing software, the standard color profiles still deliver excellent results in low light.

Top 3 Alternatives for DJI Osmo Action 4

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life makes or breaks outdoor filming sessions. The Osmo Action 4 delivers impressive battery performance. A single Extreme Battery lasts up to 160 minutes at room temperature when recording 1080p video. This extended runtime beats most action cameras. You can complete entire activities without stopping to swap batteries. The combo package includes multiple batteries, so you always have backup power ready.

The batteries charge quickly using USB-C fast charging. A depleted battery reaches full charge in about 90 minutes. The included charging case powers up three batteries simultaneously. This case proves invaluable on multi-day trips. You charge all your batteries overnight and have full power for the next day’s adventures. The batteries work well in cold temperatures too. They maintain decent performance even when mercury drops, though runtime decreases slightly in freezing conditions.

Smart power management extends battery life further. The camera enters standby mode when not recording. The quick start feature wakes it instantly when you need to capture sudden action. You won’t miss important moments while saving battery power during downtime.

Waterproof Design and Durability

The Osmo Action 4 handles water without any extra housing. It’s waterproof down to 18 meters right out of the box. This deep rating covers most water activities. You can snorkel, surf, kayak, or swim without worry. The waterproof design doesn’t affect image quality. The lens remains clear underwater. The camera operates normally even when completely submerged.

The hydrophobic coating on the lens repels water droplets. When you emerge from water, the lens clears quickly. You don’t get that annoying water spot effect that ruins footage. The touchscreens continue working when wet. This feature might seem small but it matters greatly when you’re in the water trying to change settings.

Build quality inspires confidence. The camera body uses durable materials that resist scratches and impacts. Corner bumpers protect vulnerable edges. The lens cover safeguards the glass element. Drop tests show the camera survives falls onto hard surfaces. The mounting system locks securely. Your camera stays attached during vigorous activities. I’ve used this camera in dusty conditions, muddy trails, and sandy beaches. It keeps working without issues.

Stabilization Technology

Shaky footage looks unprofessional. The Osmo Action 4 uses RockSteady 3.0 stabilization to eliminate unwanted camera movement. This electronic image stabilization analyzes your footage in real-time. It corrects for bumps, vibrations, and sudden movements. The results look incredibly smooth, similar to footage shot with a handheld gimbal.

HorizonSteady takes stabilization further. This mode keeps your horizon perfectly level even when the camera rotates completely. You can mount the camera on your helmet, chest, or handlebars. No matter how much you twist and turn, the footage maintains a level horizon. This feature works great for mountain biking, motocross, and other activities where the camera might rotate.

The stabilization doesn’t require much cropping. Some cameras crop heavily to stabilize footage, which reduces your field of view. The Osmo Action 4 uses smart algorithms that maintain a 155-degree ultra-wide angle while keeping footage steady. You capture more of the scene without sacrificing smoothness.

Audio Quality and Microphone Performance

Good audio often gets overlooked in action cameras. The Osmo Action 4 takes audio seriously. It features three microphones positioned around the camera body. This setup captures clear audio from multiple directions. The wind noise reduction works remarkably well. You can film while cycling at high speeds or riding a motorcycle. The camera reduces wind noise significantly while preserving your voice and ambient sounds.

The microphones handle loud environments too. Recording at concerts or motorsports events doesn’t cause distortion. The automatic gain control adjusts levels appropriately. For professional work, you can connect an external microphone through accessories. The camera supports external audio input, giving you broadcast-quality sound options.

Voice commands add hands-free control. You can say commands like “start recording” or “take a photo” when your hands are busy. This feature proves useful during activities where you can’t reach the camera easily.

Touchscreen Interface and Controls

The dual touchscreen design changes how you interact with action cameras. The 2-inch rear touchscreen offers plenty of space for navigation. Menus appear clear and organized. Settings adjust quickly with simple swipes and taps. The interface responds instantly without lag. Even with gloves on, the screens register your touches accurately.

The front touchscreen serves multiple purposes. It shows your framing when you film yourself. It displays recording status so you know the camera is capturing footage. It allows quick access to common settings. This front screen makes vlogging much easier. You see exactly what the camera sees without guessing or using a separate monitor.

Physical buttons provide backup control. A large record button sits on top where your thumb naturally rests. A quick switch button lets you change modes rapidly. A power button turns the camera on and off. These buttons have good tactile feedback. You can operate them without looking, which helps when you’re focused on your activity.

Field of View Options

Different situations call for different perspectives. The Osmo Action 4 offers multiple field of view settings. The 155-degree ultra-wide angle captures expansive scenes. This wide view works perfectly for landscapes, group shots, and action sequences where you want to show the full environment. The wide angle creates that classic action camera look.

A medium field of view reduces the fisheye effect slightly. This option looks more natural for general filming. It works well for walking tours, casual vlogs, and situations where you want less distortion. The narrow field of view zooms in further. It approaches the perspective of a standard camera. This setting suits portraits, distant subjects, and times when you want to focus attention on specific elements.

You can change field of view settings quickly through the touchscreen. The camera remembers your preferences for different modes. Switching between perspectives takes seconds, letting you adapt to changing situations.

Storage and Memory Card Support

The Osmo Action 4 doesn’t include internal storage. You need to provide a microSD card. The camera supports cards up to 1TB in capacity. This huge capacity lets you record for days without running out of space. The camera works best with UHS-I Speed Class 3 or faster cards. Fast cards prevent recording interruptions and allow the camera to write high-bitrate video smoothly.

DJI recommends specific card models that are tested for compatibility. Using recommended cards ensures reliable performance. The camera formats cards quickly through the menu system. File organization happens automatically. The camera creates folders by date, making it easy to find footage later. Video files split into manageable chunks to maintain compatibility with different devices and editing software.

Connectivity and App Features

The DJI Mimo app connects your camera to smartphones. The app pairs via WiFi and Bluetooth for quick connection. Once connected, you can preview footage on your phone’s larger screen. This helps when you need a bigger view for precise framing. The app also serves as a remote control. You can start and stop recording from your phone. You can adjust settings without touching the camera.

The app includes powerful editing tools. You can trim clips, add music, and apply filters directly on your phone. Templates help create stylized videos quickly. The app can automatically generate highlight reels from your footage. It analyzes your videos and picks the best moments. This automated editing saves hours of work.

Transferring footage happens quickly through the app. You can download specific clips to your phone for immediate sharing. The wireless transfer works at good speeds for smaller files. For large projects, connecting the camera via USB-C to a computer provides faster transfer rates.

Accessories and Mounting Options

The Standard Combo includes essential accessories. You get a horizontal-vertical protective frame that allows mounting in different orientations. This frame protects the camera while maintaining access to all features. A quick-release adapter mount makes it easy to switch between mounting locations. The system locks securely but detaches quickly when you need to move the camera.

An adhesive base sticks to helmets, surfboards, or other gear. The curved adhesive base conforms to rounded surfaces. These mounts create permanent mounting points. A locking screw provides extra security for critical mounts. A USB-C cable charges the camera and transfers files. The lens hood reduces lens flare in bright sunlight.

DJI offers additional accessories separately. Floating handles keep the camera from sinking in water. Chest mounts provide a body-worn perspective. Helmet mounts work for cycling or skiing. Extension poles reach difficult angles. The extensive accessory ecosystem lets you customize your setup for any activity.

Temperature Performance

Action cameras face extreme temperatures. The Osmo Action 4 operates in conditions from -20°C to 45°C (-4°F to 113°F). This wide range covers most outdoor environments. The camera functions normally in desert heat and mountain cold. Battery life decreases in extreme temperatures, but the camera keeps working.

Cold weather performance exceeds many competitors. The Extreme Battery maintains better performance in freezing conditions compared to standard batteries. Keeping spare batteries warm in inner pockets helps maintain runtime. The camera body doesn’t become uncomfortably cold to touch, even in winter conditions.

Heat management works well too. The camera can record for extended periods in warm weather without overheating. The metal body helps dissipate heat. Recording warnings appear if the camera gets too hot, giving you time to cool it down before any damage occurs.

File Formats and Codec Options

The Osmo Action 4 records video in MP4 and MOV containers. These formats work with virtually all editing software and devices. The H.264 codec provides excellent quality with broad compatibility. Almost every device can play H.264 files without issues. The H.265 (HEVC) codec offers better compression. Files take up less space while maintaining similar quality. This lets you record longer on the same memory card.

Photo formats include JPEG and DNG raw. JPEG files work great for immediate sharing. They look good straight from the camera. DNG raw photos give advanced users complete editing control. Raw files contain all the sensor data without processing. You can recover highlights, adjust exposure, and fine-tune colors far beyond what JPEG allows. The camera shoots photos at 10 megapixels, which provides plenty of resolution for large prints and cropping.

Price and Value Proposition

The DJI Osmo Action 4 Standard Combo typically retails around $209 to $299. This price point positions it as an excellent value. You get features that match or exceed cameras costing significantly more. The larger sensor, long battery life, and dual touchscreens justify the investment. The combo package adds value by including multiple batteries and accessories that would cost extra with other brands.

Compared to competitors, the Action 4 delivers more for less money. It undercuts similar GoPro models while offering comparable or superior features. The camera represents smart spending for anyone serious about capturing quality action footage. Whether you’re a professional creator or enthusiastic hobbyist, this camera provides tools that enhance your content.

Real World Use Cases

The Osmo Action 4 excels in various situations. Mountain bikers appreciate the stabilization and wide field of view. The camera captures trail riding smoothly without vibration blur. Surfers benefit from the deep waterproofing and wave-resistant design. The camera handles saltwater without corrosion concerns. Motorcyclists love the wind noise reduction and mounting versatility. The camera attaches to helmets or bikes securely.

Travel vloggers use the front screen for perfect selfie framing. The compact size doesn’t attract unwanted attention. Divers explore underwater worlds with excellent image quality even in reduced lighting. The camera handles pressure and water effortlessly. Skydivers trust the secure mounting and reliability during freefall. The camera captures these extreme moments without failure.

Family users appreciate how easy the camera is to operate. Kids’ sports, pool days, and vacation activities all look great. The automatic features help beginners get good results without technical knowledge.

Comparing to Previous Models

The Action 4 improves significantly over the Action 3. The larger sensor provides noticeably better image quality. Battery life increased by a substantial margin. The dual touchscreen design adds functionality that the Action 3 lacked. Processing power increased, enabling faster operation and more stable performance.

The Action 4 maintains the same price point as the Action 3 launch price. This means you get more camera for the same money. Existing DJI users can upgrade and immediately notice the improvements. The mounting system remains compatible, so previous accessories still work. This upgrade path makes sense for anyone with older Action cameras.

Software Updates and Support

DJI regularly releases firmware updates for the Osmo Action 4. These updates add features, improve performance, and fix bugs. The update process works simply through the Mimo app. You download the update to your phone, then transfer it to the camera. Updates install automatically. The camera restarts with new capabilities.

Recent updates have improved stabilization algorithms, added new shooting modes, and enhanced connectivity. DJI listens to user feedback and implements requested features. This ongoing support means your camera gets better over time. You don’t need to buy new hardware to access improvements.

Technical support operates through multiple channels. The DJI website offers comprehensive guides and tutorials. Forums connect users who share tips and solutions. Email support responds to specific questions. Phone support handles urgent issues. The warranty covers defects and malfunctions, giving you peace of mind with your investment.

Common Questions About DJI Osmo Action 4 Camera Combo

Does the DJI Osmo Action 4 work with GoPro mounts?

Yes, the Action 4 uses the standard action camera mounting system. Most GoPro mounts work perfectly with this camera. The quick-release adapter included in the combo fits standard mounts. You can use existing GoPro accessories without buying new equipment. This compatibility saves money and gives you more mounting options immediately.

How long does the battery really last during active filming?

Real-world battery life depends on your settings. Recording 4K at 60fps gives you about 90 to 100 minutes per battery. Using 1080p at 30fps extends this to approximately 150 to 160 minutes. Cold weather reduces these times by 20 to 30 percent. The combo includes extra batteries, so you can film for several hours total by swapping batteries. Keeping spare batteries warm in your pocket helps maintain their capacity in cold conditions.

Can I use this camera for live streaming?

The Osmo Action 4 supports live streaming through the DJI Mimo app. You connect the camera to your phone, then stream to platforms like YouTube, Facebook, or Twitch. The camera maintains stabilization during live streams. Audio quality remains good. The front screen lets you monitor your stream while broadcasting. This feature works great for sharing adventures in real-time or creating live event coverage.

What memory card should I buy for this camera?

DJI recommends SanDisk Extreme or Samsung EVO Plus cards rated UHS-I Speed Class 3 or better. For 4K 120fps recording, you need fast cards to keep up with the data rate. A 128GB card provides several hours of recording space. A 256GB card works well for extended trips. Avoid cheap off-brand cards, as they may not maintain write speeds consistently. Slow cards cause recording to stop unexpectedly.

Is the camera good for photography or just video?

While designed primarily for video, the Action 4 takes excellent photos. The 10-megapixel resolution provides good detail. The DNG raw format gives you editing flexibility for important shots. Time-lapse modes create impressive sequences. The camera works well for action photography where you need durability and waterproofing. However, if photography is your main focus, a dedicated camera might serve you better. This camera excels at combining good photos with exceptional video capabilities.

How does the Action 4 compare to the newer Action 5 Pro?

The Action 5 Pro offers some improvements, including slightly better low-light performance and enhanced subject tracking. However, the Action 4 remains an excellent choice, especially at its lower price point. For most users, the Action 4 provides all the features needed for professional-quality content. The price difference makes the Action 4 a better value unless you specifically need the Action 5’s advanced features. Both cameras share similar image quality and durability.

Last update on 2026-01-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API.   Some of the links on this website are affiliate links, which means that at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase. I only recommend products and services that I believe will add value to my readers. Thank you for your support!