DJI has finally released a new GoPro substitute—the long-awaited Osmo Action 5 Pro. It will compete with the previously released GoPro Hero 13 and has several advantages over it: a 1/1.3-inch optical format sensor (with a pixel size of 2.4 μm), a dynamic range of 13.5 steps, 10-bit D-Log M format, and support for hybrid log gamma (HLG). The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is priced at $349, making it $50 less expensive than the GoPro Hero 13.
Image Quality and Sensor Details
One of the main features of the new GoPro alternative is improved image quality, a 1/1.3-inch optical format sensor with a pixel size of 2.4 microns. According to the manufacturer, this sensor provides up to 13.5 stops of dynamic range. With a resolution of 40 megapixels, the camera also allows you to capture 8K photos, DJI reports.
Camera Optics and Shooting Modes
The camera sensor works with ultra-wide-angle optics, which provide a 155-degree viewing angle and have a maximum aperture of F/2.8. At the same time, a 4K 60 fps shooting mode with a high dynamic range is available.
The AI-powered 4K SuperNight recording feature enhances image quality in low-light conditions. However, low-light performance remains a challenge for action cameras, so don’t expect drastic improvements.
The new 40MP sensor enables video recording in 10-bit D-Log M format. This allows for more subtle color correction in post-production, thus achieving even more expressive results when shooting on the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro. In addition, the Hybrid Log Gamma (HLG) mode is supported.
Frame Rates and Slow Motion
Also worth noting is the 4K 120 fps mode with a frame aspect ratio of 4:3. A 1080p shooting mode at 240 fps is also available.
The company also claims that the device can intelligently slow down video to 960 fps, with minimal loss in image quality, as shown in the promotional video. However, independent tests of the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro are necessary to confirm these claims.
In addition to the high-resolution sensor, the new action camera has an advanced chip made using a 4-nm process technology. It is capable of providing camera learning algorithms for intelligently determining the position of an object in the frame and subsequent dynamic composition – so that the object (for example, a snowboarder) remains in the center.
DJI claims that the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is the first action camera on the market to feature this type of subject-centering and tracking autofocus.
Battery Life and Durability
In addition to all the above improvements, the new product, judging by DJI’s announcement, provides significantly longer battery life. It is up to four hours, which is 50% more than the previous generation camera from DJI.
The camera also charges faster than its predecessor. When using a DJI USB-C 30W charger, the camera can get enough power for two hours of shooting in 15 minutes of charging.
The battery capacity is 1950 mAh. At the same time, DJI itself has developed its energy efficiency algorithm. Even when shooting at low temperatures (-20 degrees Celsius), the camera can record video for up to 3.6 hours.
At the same time, DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is waterproof to a depth of 20 meters without a case. This is the highest indicator among similar action cameras.
The new Osmo Action 5 Pro also has a special color temperature sensor to ensure accurate white balance even underwater. The camera has a built-in pressure gauge to record depth, duration, and altitude data (to ensure user safety). It also meets global standards for diving accessories.
Display, Audio, and Connectivity
The DJI Osmo Action 5 has two displays. They are touch-sensitive, protected by tempered glass, and made using OLED technology. The peak brightness is 1000 nits, which should be enough for daytime shooting. DJI also reduced the bezel size to increase the screen size without changing the dimensions of the camera body.
The DJI Action 5 Pro works with the DJI Mic 2 microphone transmitter via Bluetooth, recording high-bit-rate audio without a receiver. Users can take advantage of the built-in microphone with the audio backup mode enabled to add ambient sound recording when using an external microphone. It can be very useful for creating a richer soundscape.
It has 47GB of built-in memory (you can also install additional memory by inserting a memory card), support for high-speed data transfer via Wi-Fi 6.0 or USB 3.0, the ability to stream data via Wi-Fi, support for time code, dynamic live photo shooting, pre-recording and an intelligent function for highlighting important parts of the video for faster editing.
Accessories and Compatibility
The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro action camera is compatible with a wide range of accessories, including a charging grip, cold shoe expansion kit, DJI Mic 2, GPS Bluetooth remote control, extension pole, and a variety of mounts for helmets, backpacks, handlebars, and more.
DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro action camera price and availability
The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is available now for $349 on Bhphotovideo, Adorama, Amazon.com, and Amazon.co.uk. This bundle includes the Osmo Action 5 Pro, Osmo Action Extreme Battery Plus (1950mAh), Osmo Action Horizontal-Vertical Protective Frame, Osmo Action Quick Release Mount, Osmo Action Curved Adhesive Base, Osmo Locking Screw, Type-C to Type-C PD Cable, Osmo Action 5 Pro Rubber Lens Protector, Osmo Action 5 Pro Glass Lens Cover, and Osmo Action Anti-Slip Pad.
There’s also the Osmo Action 5 Pro Adventure Combo for $449. It includes everything in the standard kit, plus an Osmo Action Quick-Release Adapter Mount (mini), Osmo Action Multi-Function Battery Case, and an Osmo 1.5m Extension Cable.
