Action cameras have revolutionized the way we capture our adventures, offering high-quality footage in compact, durable devices. In the rapidly evolving world of action cameras, two significant contenders stand out in 2023: the GoPro Hero 12 and the DJI Osmo Action 4.
This comprehensive comparison aims to dissect and analyze various aspects of these cutting-edge devices to assist potential buyers in making an informed decision. Check out the latest prices here: the GoPro Hero 12 and the DJI Osmo Action 4.
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Design and Build Quality
Both the GoPro Hero 12 and DJI Osmo Action 4 exhibit remarkable design and durability. The Hero 12 maintains a similar form factor to its predecessors, boasting a texture and design upgrade. It retains its exceptional waterproof quality and offers easy access to the battery and micro SD card.
The return of the quarter-inch thread for tripod attachment enhances its versatility. On the other hand, the DJI Osmo Action 4 continues the well-received design of its predecessors, showcasing a slightly heavier but rugged build, with an extra protective frame and a quick-release mechanism, earning it an edge in survivability in challenging conditions.
Internal Components and Hardware
While GoPro incorporates a homegrown system-on-chip (SoC) known as the gp2, providing decent performance with up to 5.3K video at 60 frames per second, the DJI Osmo Action 4, equipped with a 4K resolution and a chipset model undisclosed, focuses on mind-blowing low-light performance and dynamic range.
The comparison between the two becomes a matter of trade-offs: GoPro excels in higher resolution and frame rates for slow-motion footage, while DJI’s low-light capabilities offer substantial advantages, resulting in a somewhat subjective evaluation.
Daytime Performance and Image Stabilization
Both cameras offer exceptional image stabilization technologies: GoPro’s Hypersmooth 6.0 and DJI’s Rock Steady. Image stabilization nuances might vary between the two, leading to personal preferences in usage. The consideration of utilizing software solutions for stabilization, such as GoFlow, further diversifies the analysis, allowing users to decide based on their editing needs.
Image Quality and Low-Light Performance
In terms of image quality, While GoPro introduces a log mode in an attempt to enhance its image quality, the overall footage quality seems to degrade significantly in lower light conditions. Despite its efforts, the Hero 12 struggles to match the low-light capabilities of its competitor.
The Osmo Action 4 excels in low-light situations due to its larger image sensor and lower pixel density, producing superior footage quality even in challenging lighting environments. The color profiles and bitrate contribute to its high-quality footage, setting it as the preferred choice for low-light conditions.
Battery Life, Charging, and Audio Quality
Comparing battery life during 4K recordings and the availability of quick charging demonstrates objective differences. The DJI Osmo Action 4’s better battery performance coupled with quick charging provides a practical advantage. In terms of audio quality, DJI’s improvements to its microphone, especially when coupled with an external microphone, offer a noteworthy enhancement.
The Hero 12 showcases a longer battery life and compatibility with quick charging, enhancing the practicality of its usage. The audio quality remains excellent, especially when considering the potential use of an external microphone.
User Interface, Touchscreen Operation, and Accessories
The user experience, interface, and touchscreen functionality become pivotal factors for users. While GoPro maintains a consistent user interface with the Quick app and cloud backup, DJI’s app stands out for its ease of use. Furthermore, the availability of accessories, specifically the quick-release mechanism and ND filters for the DJI Osmo Action 4, highlights its user-friendly approach and the quality of its accessories.
Smartphone Apps and Pricing
Both companies offer smartphone apps, but GoPro’s Quick app with cloud storage presents a strong selling point. However, DJI’s app, while not on the Google Play Store for Android users, still provides a powerful editing tool. The pricing strategy reveals differences in value offerings and subscription benefits between the two cameras.
GoPro Hero 12 vs. DJI Osmo Action 4 “Pros And Cons”:
GoPro Hero 12
Pros:
- High Resolution and Frame Rates: Offers up to 5.3K resolution at 60 frames per second, providing excellent video quality for detailed footage.
- Established Brand and Ecosystem: Benefit from a well-established brand with a wide range of compatible accessories, ensuring versatility in usage.
- Good Image Stabilization: Hypersmooth 6.0 technology delivers effective image stabilization, ensuring steady footage.
- Long Battery Life and Quick Charging: Extended battery life and compatibility with quick charging provide practicality for extended use in action-filled scenarios.
Cons:
- Struggles in Low-Light Conditions: Produces noticeable noise and grain in darker environments due to higher pixel density, impacting low-light performance.
- Limited Low-Light Capabilities: Its performance in low-light situations falls short compared to competitors, affecting the overall quality of footage.
- Stagnant Design and Innovation: The design might feel repetitive, lacking significant innovation compared to previous models.
Reasons to Choose:
Versatile Ecosystem: Ideal for users invested in the GoPro ecosystem with an array of accessories and support for various activities.
High Resolution and Frame Rates: Suited for those prioritizing high-resolution footage and excellent frame rates, especially in well-lit conditions.
DJI Osmo Action 4
Pros:
- Outstanding Low-Light Performance: Larger image sensor and lower pixel density produce superior quality footage in low-light conditions, minimizing noise and grain.
- Rugged Build and Durability: A heavier, rugged build and a quick-release mechanism ensure durability and survivability in challenging environments.
- Superior Image Quality and Color Profiles: Provides better color profiles and bitrate, offering enhanced footage for color grading and editing.
- Excellent Battery Performance: Demonstrates long-lasting battery life and quick charging, ensuring extended usage without frequent recharging.
Cons:
- Limited Brand Ecosystem: Lacks the extensive range of accessories available for GoPro, potentially limiting versatility for certain activities.
- Lesser Resolution and Frame Rates: Provides up to 4K resolution only, potentially restricting users seeking higher resolution footage.
- Potential Heavier Build: The heavier build might not suit users preferring lightweight devices for certain activities.
Reasons to Choose:
Superior Low-Light Capabilities: Ideal for users focused on capturing high-quality footage in low-light conditions, such as nighttime or indoor scenarios.
Durable Build and Enhanced Image Quality: Suited for users seeking a sturdy build and superior image quality, especially for color grading and editing purposes.
Check out the latest prices here: the GoPro Hero 12 and the DJI Osmo Action 4.
Final Verdict
Both cameras offer distinctive features catering to different user preferences. The GoPro Hero 12 shines with its established brand, high-resolution capabilities, and a versatile ecosystem. Meanwhile, the DJI Osmo Action 4 excels in low-light performance, durable build, and superior image quality, providing excellent footage in challenging conditions.
The GoPro Hero 12 and DJI Osmo Action 4 represent the pinnacle of technological advancements in 2023. While both cameras have their unique strengths and weaknesses across multiple facets, the DJI Osmo Action 4 emerges as a formidable competitor, particularly excelling in low-light performance, durability, and battery capabilities.
Despite GoPro’s efforts with hardware enhancements and software features, the Osmo Action 4’s consistently superior performance in critical areas gives it the edge in this comparative analysis. Check out the latest prices here: the GoPro Hero 12 and the DJI Osmo Action 4.
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