DJI Osmo Action 3 vs DJI Osmo Action 4: Comparison
The DJI Osmo Action 3, launched in 2022, is a robust action camera featuring strong battery life, quick-release magnetics, and dual screens. The DJI Osmo Action 4, released in 2023, elevates the series with a significantly improved sensor, richer colour capture, and greater low-light performance.
Both models are equally portable and share core design traits, but the Action 4 makes meaningful upgrades that will appeal to aspiring creators. Here's a breakdown:
Quick Spec Comparison
Sensor: 1/1.7″ CMOS, 12 MP
Video: DCI 4K up to 60fps, UHD 4K at 120fps, 1080p at 240fps
Stabilisation: RockSteady + HorizonSteady
Screens: Dual touchscreen (front & rear) (1.4″ + 2.25″)
Weight: 145 g
Waterproof: 16 m without, 60 m with case
microSD Support: Up to 256 GB
Price: £259
Sensor: 1/1.3″ CMOS, 10 MP
Video: UHD 4K up to 120fps, 2.7K 120fps, 1080p 240fps, 10-bit D-Log M
Stabilisation: RockSteady + HorizonSteady
Screens: Dual touchscreen (front & rear) (1.4″ + 2.25″)
Weight: 145 g
Waterproof: 18 m without, 60 m with case
microSD Support: Up to 512 GB
Price: £379
Camera & Image Quality
This is the area where the Action 4 really shines.
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Osmo Action 3: Its 1/1.7″ sensor and 12 MP stills are great for most users. It shoots crisp 4K video and handles bright daylight well, but struggles in darker scenes.
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Osmo Action 4: Upgrades to a larger 1/1.3″ sensor. Despite a slightly lower still resolution (10 MP), the bigger pixels capture more light, giving you better low-light shots, richer colours, and improved dynamic range. It also supports 10-bit D-Log M colour and HDR video, perfect if you like editing your footage.
If you’re mainly filming in good daylight, the Action 3 will do the job. But if you want pro-level colour grading or plan to shoot at sunset, indoors, or underwater, the Action 4 is the clear winner.
Battery Life & Performance
Both cameras are built for endurance:
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Osmo Action 3: Known for excellent battery life, lasting around 75 minutes at 4K/30fps. Fast charging gets you back to full in under an hour.
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Osmo Action 4: Similar long-lasting performance but with improved cold resistance and better efficiency when shooting at higher resolutions and frame rates.
If you’re planning long shoots in cold conditions, the Action 4 will perform more reliably.
Durability & Safety
Adventure-ready design is standard on both models:
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Osmo Action 3: Waterproof to 16 m without a case, and up to 60 m with a case.
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Osmo Action 4: Pushes this to 18 m without a case, plus slightly better low-light performance underwater.
Both use DJI’s magnetic quick-release mount, making it easy to switch setups on the go.
Transmission & Connectivity
Both models come with built-in Wi-Fi for remote control and quick file transfers.
The Osmo Action 4 has improved wireless performance, especially when used with DJI’s accessories. It also offers better compatibility with external mics and livestreaming, which will appeal to vloggers and creators.
Portability
Weighing just 145 g each, both cameras are practically identical in size and shape. They’re easy to throw in a backpack or mount to your bike helmet without noticing the extra weight.
Portability is a tie here.
Price Comparison
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DJI Osmo Action 3: £259
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DJI Osmo Action 4: £379
The price gap reflects the upgraded sensor, colour features, and overall performance improvements in the Action 4.
Who Should Choose Which?
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Choose the DJI Osmo Action 3 if…
You want a reliable, rugged action camera at a lower price point. Perfect for casual adventures, cycling, skiing, or anyone who doesn’t need advanced colour grading. -
Choose the DJI Osmo Action 4 if…
You’re a content creator or enthusiast who cares about low-light performance, professional colour profiles, and the very best video quality. It’s worth the extra cost if you want footage that stands out.
Ready to buy? You can purchase the DJI Osmo Action 4 from our store with fast shipping and full warranty support.
Alternatively, if you already own an Action 3, browse our range of DJI Osmo Action 3 Accessories.