DJI recently released the Osmo Action 4. How does this new model compare against the older Action 3 camera? This guide compares the DJI Osmo Action 4 vs DJI Osmo Action 3. Which one is best for you?
The new Osmo Action 4 has an upgraded image sensor (improved low-light imaging) and remote capability. Both cameras have 160-minute batteries and shoot 4K/120 video. But if price is your primary factor, you’ll be very happy with DJI’s Action 3 camera.
DJI Osmo Action 4 vs DJI Osmo Action 3
Top Pick: DJI Osmo Action 3
I recommend the DJI Osmo Action 3 for most people. See the current Action 3 price on Amazon and DJI.
Here’s why: The DJI Osmo Action 3 shoots 4K video (at 120 fps), features long battery life (160 minutes), is lightweight, and lower cost. And the newer Action 4 camera doesn’t improve on any of these features.
For most travelers and adventurers, the DJI Osmo Action 3 will do everything (and much more) than they’ll ever need.
But if you want the latest tech, even at a higher cost, you should pick up the Action 4.
The Action 4 features the same specs as the Action 3, with these exceptions: An improved image sensor, upgraded image stabilization, and GPS potential via the remote.
Get your DJI Osmo Action 4 on Amazon, DJI, or B&H Photo.
5 Primary Specs Compared (Action 4 vs Action 3)
Here are some key factors to compare between these two action cameras.
- Battery life: Equal. Both Action 4 and Action 3 have 160 min battery life.
- Cost: Osmo Action 3 (USD$329 MSRP) vs DJI Osmo Action 4 (USD$399 MSRP). The price will vary depending on the site, day, and offer.
- Image Stabilization: Equal. DJI Osmo Action 3 has RockSteady 3 and HorizonSteady. The Action 4 has the same 360° HorizonsSteady and the upgraded RockStead 3+.
- Image Resolution: Toss Up: DJI Osmo Action 3 (Video: 4K/120 and Photo: 12MP) vs DJI Osmo Action 4 (Video: 4K/120 and Photo: 10MP).
- Waterproof: Toss Up: DJI Osmo Action 3 (16 meters) vs DJI Osmo Action 4 (18 meters)
As you can see, these cameras have very similar specs. They have the same battery and almost identical waterproof rating and image stabilization.
- Choose Action 4 for a better low-light sensor and GPS function via the new remote.
- Choose Action 3 for almost identical specs for less money.
Check current prices for DJI Osmo Action 4 and DJI Osmo Action 3 on Amazon.
Specs and Pricing
While both cameras are the same size and weight, the specs vary for waterproof rating, image sensor size, and photo resolution.
The Osmo Action 4 was released on August 2, 2023, and the Osmo Action 3 was released on September 14, 2022 (the same day was the GoPro Hero11 Black).
| Specs | DJI Osmo Action 4 | DJI Osmo Action 3 |
|---|---|---|
| MRSP | $399 USD | $329 USD |
| Sensor Size | 1/1.3″ | 1/1.7″ |
| Video | 4K/120 | 4K/120 |
| Photo | 10MP | 12MP |
| Battery | 1770 mAh (LiPo 1S) Removable | 1770 mAh (LiPo 1S) Removable |
| Battery Life | 160 minutes | 160 minutes |
| Weight (grams) | 145 g | 145 g |
| Size (inches) | 2.8 x 1.7 x 1.3″ | 2.8 x 1.7 x 1.3″ |
| Waterproof | Waterproof to 59 feet (18 meters) | Waterproof to 52 feet (16 meters) |
Here’s how GoPro’s Hero11 Black compares to DJI’s Osmo Action 3 and Action 4.
Appearance, UI, and Battery
The size is identical between the two models (dimensions and weight). Both cameras have the same hidden mounting systems.
Appearance and User Interface: Equal. The UI is the same on both models. I like the interface by DJI – it is super intuitive. The camera appearance remains almost identical, except for the noted differences below.
3 Visible Differences: The Action 4 has a different mic port (with 8 openings) vs the 2 openings on the Action 3. The shutter release button is now red instead of the orange of the Action 3. And the lens specs are now printed on the lens itself.
Battery Comparison
Both models have removable, rechargeable batteries. They use the same 1770 mAh (LiPo 1S) battery.
Battery Specs: Equal. They both boast an impressive 2.5+ hours of battery life.
| Battery | DJI Osmo Action 4 | DJI Osmo Action 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | Removable | Removable |
| Battery Life | 160 minutes | 160 minutes |
| Same Battery | 1770 mAh (LiPo 1S) | 1770 mAh (LiPo 1S) |
| Charging Time |
Learn more about batteries for DJI action cameras. And here’s how to charge a DJI Osmo Action camera.
Capturing Photo and Video: DJI Action Specs
I’ve used both cameras, and the footage is outstanding on both. I’m a big fan of the video quality of the DJI camera. I only received my Action 4 last week, so I haven’t played with it much yet.
Capture Specs: Equal. The cameras have identical video capture specs (4K/120fps) and nearly the same photo resolution: Action 3 shoots 12MP and the Action 4 shoots 10MP.
Image Stabilization: Toss-up. Both models have the same stabilization features. The DJI Osmo Action 3 has RockSteady 3/HorizonSteady. And the newer Action 4 has RockSteady 3+.
Here are all the capture specs for both camera models.
| Capture | DJI Osmo Action 4 | DJI Osmo Action 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Video | 4K/120 | 4K/120 |
| Photo | 10MP | 12MP |
| FOV | 155° | 155° |
| Image Stabilization | RockSteady 3+ | RockSteady 3 |
| Audio (Mic) | 3 | 3 |
| Accepts External Mic | Yes, especially the DJI Mic. | Yes, especially the DJI Mic. |
| Wind Noise Reduction | Yes | Yes |
| Sensor Size | 1/1.3″ | 1/1.7″ |
| Aperture | f/2.8 | f/2.8 |
| Zoom | Digital zoom | Digital zoom |
Features and General Specs
Here are the other specs and details about both camera models.
| General Info | DJI Osmo Action 4 | DJI Osmo Action 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Release Date | August 2, 2023 | September 14, 2022 |
| Release Year | 2023 | 2022 |
| Webcam Function | Yes | Yes |
| Weight (ounces) | 5.1 oz | 5.1 oz |
| Weight (grams) | 145 g | 145 g |
| Size (inches) | 2.8 x 1.7 x 1.3″ | 2.8 x 1.7 x 1.3″ |
| Size (mm) | 70.5 × 44.2 × 32.8 mm | 70.5 × 44.2 × 32.8 mm |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi + Bluetooth | Wi-Fi + Bluetooth |
| GPS | Via Remote | No |
| micro HDMI | No | No |
Test Footage: DJI Action 4 vs DJI Action 3
Here is some test footage I shot with my DJI cameras.
DJI Action 4 Footage
I’ll be shooting this soon. Please stay tuned.
DJI Osmo Action 3 Footage
Here’s a relaxing wave video I shot near my home in Nova Scotia with my DJI Osmo Action 3 camera.
Which One Do You Like Most?
While the suggested retail price is listed above, the prices vary. Here’s where you can check the current prices for each model.
Interested in more? See all our camera comparison guides.
Final Thoughts
While you won’t be disappointed with either camera, the DJI Action 4 has all the latest features and the incredible image quality that DJI is famous for. And if the price is a factor (when isn’t it?) then you should consider DJI’s Action 3. It is a solid camera that doesn’t disappoint.
Which model are you considering? Have you used one (or both) of these cameras? I would love to hear your thoughts.
- About the Author
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Bryan Haines is co-founder and blogger on Storyteller Tech. We cover action cameras and outdoor photography with a focus on GoPro cameras.
He is a travel blogger at Storyteller.Travel and co-founder of Storyteller Media, a company he started with his wife, Dena.