DJI has released the latest iteration of its popular action camera line – the Osmo Action 5 Pro. But how does it compare to its predecessor, the Osmo Action 4? In this in-depth comparison, we’ll look at all the key differences between these two action cams to help you decide if it’s worth upgrading.
[Photo suggestion: Side-by-side product shots of the Osmo Action 5 Pro and Osmo Action 4]
Design and Build
At first glance, the Osmo Action 5 Pro looks very similar to the Action 4. Both feature the same rugged, waterproof design that DJI is known for. However, there are some subtle but important differences:
- The Action 5 Pro is slightly heavier at 146g vs 145g for the Action 4
- Action 5 Pro is waterproof to 20m without a case (vs 18m for Action 4)
- Action 5 Pro has brighter OLED screens (800 nits vs 750 nits)
- Rear screen on Action 5 Pro is larger at 2.5″ vs 2.25″ on Action 4
The Action 5 Pro retains the magnetic quick-release design for easily swapping mounts. Overall build quality remains excellent, with a durable metal body and Gorilla Glass lens protector.
Image Sensor and Video Capabilities
While both cameras use a 1/1.3″ CMOS sensor, the Action 5 Pro brings some notable improvements:
- 10MP photos (vs 12MP on Action 4)
- 13.5 stops of dynamic range (vs 12.7 stops on Action 4)
- 4K/120fps video in 4:3 aspect ratio (Action 4 limited to 16:9)
- 10-bit color (vs 8-bit on Action 4)
The larger dynamic range on the Action 5 Pro allows for better highlight and shadow detail, especially in high contrast scenes. The ability to shoot 4K/120fps in 4:3 gives more vertical framing options for social media content.
Stabilization and Shooting Modes
DJI has further improved its excellent stabilization capabilities:
- Action 5 Pro features RockSteady 3.0+ (vs 3.0 on Action 4)
- New subject tracking and auto-framing on Action 5 Pro
- HorizonSteady now works up to 360° rotation
The subject tracking is particularly impressive, automatically keeping your subject centered in frame as you move. For vloggers and solo content creators, this is a game-changing feature.
Low Light Performance
One of the biggest upgrades on the Action 5 Pro is improved low light capabilities:
- New SuperNight mode for enhanced night shooting
- Larger pixel size allows for better light gathering
- Improved noise reduction algorithms
Early tests show the Action 5 Pro producing noticeably cleaner and brighter footage in dim conditions compared to the Action 4. For adventurers who like to shoot at dawn, dusk, or night, this is a significant upgrade.
Battery Life and Charging
DJI has made big strides in battery performance:
- Action 5 Pro rated for 240 minutes use (vs 160 minutes for Action 4)
- Larger 1950mAh battery (vs 1770mAh)
- Faster charging supported
The 50% increase in battery life is impressive and addresses one of the main pain points of action cameras. You can now confidently shoot for longer without worrying about swapping batteries.
Audio Capabilities
While both cameras feature 3 built-in microphones, the Action 5 Pro brings some audio upgrades:
- Support for connecting two DJI Mic 2 transmitters
- Improved wind noise reduction
- 48kHz audio sampling (vs 44.1kHz on Action 4)
The ability to use two wireless mics is great for interviews or multi-person vlogging. Overall audio quality is noticeably improved on the Action 5 Pro.
User Interface and Connectivity
DJI has refined the user experience on the Action 5 Pro:
- Redesigned menu system for easier navigation
- New quick switch button for changing modes
- Wi-Fi 6 support for faster wireless transfers
The Action 5 Pro also adds a USB 3.1 port for faster wired data transfer. Both cameras support live streaming and webcam functionality.
Accessories and Ecosystem
Most accessories are cross-compatible between the two models, including:
- Batteries
- Protective frame
- Waterproof case
- Various mounts
However, the Action 5 Pro does introduce some new accessories like an extended battery handle and diving lens filter set. The ecosystem remains strong, with plenty of options for different shooting scenarios.
Price and Value
At launch, the Osmo Action 5 Pro is priced higher than the Action 4:
- Action 5 Pro: $399 (standard kit)
- Action 4: $299 (current price, originally $399)
For the extra $100, you’re getting significant upgrades in low light performance, stabilization, battery life, and overall image quality. For serious content creators, the price difference is likely justified by the new capabilities.
Who Should Upgrade?
The Osmo Action 5 Pro is a worthy upgrade for:
- Vloggers and solo content creators (subject tracking is a game-changer)
- Night/low light shooters
- Those who need longer battery life
- Users who want the best possible image quality
If you primarily shoot in good lighting conditions and don’t need the extra battery life, the Action 4 remains an excellent camera at its reduced price point.
Conclusion
The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro brings meaningful upgrades across the board compared to the Action 4. While it may look similar on the outside, the internal improvements result in noticeably better image quality, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
The subject tracking, extended battery life, and improved low light performance address some of the main limitations of action cameras. For serious content creators or those pushing their gear to the limits, the Action 5 Pro is likely worth the upgrade.
However, the Action 4 remains a capable camera, especially at its reduced price point. For casual users or those on a tighter budget, it still delivers excellent 4K footage and robust stabilization.
Ultimately, the choice comes down to your specific needs and budget. Both cameras continue DJI’s track record of producing some of the best action cameras on the market.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison chart of the key features of the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro and the DJI Osmo Action 4:
| Feature | Osmo Action 5 Pro | Osmo Action 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor Size | 1/1.3″ CMOS | 1/1.3″ CMOS |
| Dynamic Range | 13.5 stops | 12.7 stops |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K/120fps (4:3 & 16:9) | 4K/120fps (16:9 only) |
| Color Depth | 10-bit | 8-bit |
| Stabilization | RockSteady 3.0+ | RockSteady 3.0 |
| Subject Tracking | Yes | No |
| Battery Life | Up to 240 minutes | Up to 160 minutes |
| Battery Capacity | 1950 mAh | 1770 mAh |
| Front Screen | 1.4″ OLED (800 nits) | 1.4″ LCD (750 nits) |
| Rear Screen | 2.5″ OLED (800 nits) | 2.25″ LCD (750 nits) |
| Waterproof Depth | 20m (without case) | 18m (without case) |
| Built-in Storage | 47GB | No built-in storage |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 5 |
| Audio | DJI OsmoAudio™ ecosystem | Standard audio |
| Microphone Connection | Up to two DJI Mic 2 transmitters | Single external mic |
| Weight | 146g | 145g |
| Price (at launch) | $399 | $399 |
Citations:
[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_hpZvLySOA
[2] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pw3j6NTVRSQ
[3] https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/dji-osmo-action-5-pro
[4] https://dronedj.com/2024/09/19/dji-osmo-action-5-pro/
[5] https://store.dji.com/product/osmo-action-5-pro
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zG57yKg4uPQ
[7] https://gearjunkie.com/technology/dji-osmo-action-4-camera-review
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pUhXzfr7tss
[9] https://www.tomsguide.com/reviews/dji-osmo-action-4
[10] https://store.dji.com/product/osmo-action-4
[11] https://www.foto-erhardt.com/cameras/action-cameras/dji-osmo-action-4-standard-combo_technik.html
[12] https://versus.com/en/dji-osmo-action-vs-dji-osmo-action-4
[13] https://www.dji.com/osmo-action-5-pro/specs
[14] https://www.dji.com/osmo-action-4/specs
[15] https://cameradecision.com/compare/DJI-Osmo-Action-5-Pro-vs-DJI-Osmo-Action-4
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