DJI Osmo Nano vs DJI Action 2: Comparison

DJI Osmo Nano vs DJI Action 2: Comparison

DJI’s pocket-sized cameras have changed the way creators capture handheld and action footage. The DJI Osmo Nano delivers smooth, cinematic video through its built-in gimbal, while the DJI Action 2 brings rugged versatility and slow-motion power to the action camera world.

Both are compact, capable, and made for creators - but they serve very different purposes. Here’s a complete comparison to help you decide which one fits your shooting style best.

Quick Spec Comparison

DJI Osmo Nano

Sensor: 1/1.3″ CMOS
Photo Resolution: Up to 35 MP
Video Quality: 4K up to 60 fps, 120 Mbps
Stabilisation: 3-Axis Mechanical Gimbal
Field of View: 143°
Battery Life: ~90 mins (camera only) / extended with dock
Weight: 52 g (camera) / 72 g (with dock)
Waterproof: 10 m (camera only) / IPX4 with dock
Price: £239 (Standard Combo Action Camera 64GB)

DJI Action 2

Sensor: 1/1.7″ CMOS
Photo Resolution:
12 MP
Video Quality:
4K up to 120 fps, 130 Mbps
Stabilisation:
RockSteady 2.0 + HorizonSteady (EIS)
Field of View:
155° Ultra-Wide
Battery Life:
~70 mins (core) / up to 160 mins with module
Weight:
56 g (core) / 64 g (with module)
Waterproof: 
10 m (core) / up to 60 m with case
Price:
£239 (Dual-Screen Combo 32GB)

Design & Build

The DJI Osmo Nano is a compact, handheld gimbal camera built for smooth, cinematic footage. Its 3-axis mechanical gimbal ensures stable shots even when walking or moving, and its ergonomic design makes it perfect for vloggers and creators who want effortless handheld control.

The DJI Action 2 takes a different approach. It’s a modular, magnetic action camera designed to handle anything - from mountain trails to underwater adventures. Its magnetic system lets you attach different modules or mounts quickly, and its rugged metal body is made for the outdoors.

The Osmo Nano is made for controlled, cinematic shooting. The Action 2 is built for fast-paced, rugged creativity.

Camera & Image Quality

The Osmo Nano features a large 1/1.3″ sensor capable of producing up to 35 MP stills and 4K video up to 60 fps. It captures excellent detail and natural colors, especially when shooting handheld in well-lit environments. The footage has a polished, cinematic quality thanks to its gimbal stabilisation and wide dynamic range.

The Action 2, with its 1/1.7″ sensor, focuses on fast action. It records 4K footage at up to 120 fps for smooth slow motion and captures a wide, immersive perspective. Its HDR video mode enhances contrast and color when shooting in bright or variable lighting.

The Osmo Nano excels at storytelling and cinematic video. The Action 2 wins for high-speed action and immersive perspectives.

Stabilisation Performance

The Osmo Nano uses a true 3-axis mechanical gimbal, giving it professional-grade stabilisation. It physically compensates for hand movement, ensuring silky-smooth motion with no digital artifacts or cropping. It’s ideal for vlogs, cinematic shots, or any situation where stability is key.

The Action 2 relies on DJI’s advanced RockSteady 2.0 and HorizonSteady systems. These electronic stabilizers work incredibly well for high-speed movement, keeping footage level and smooth even when mounted on helmets or bikes.

Osmo Nano provides the smoothest handheld motion. Action 2’s electronic stabilisation is unbeatable for intense action shots.

Field of View & Framing

The Osmo Nano offers a 143° field of view - wide enough for immersive framing but without the heavy distortion of an ultra-wide lens. This makes it perfect for interviews, travel content, and cinematic b-roll.

The Action 2 features a 155° ultra-wide lens, ideal for POV and extreme sports. It captures more of the scene, giving a sense of motion and speed that’s perfect for action filmmaking.

Osmo Nano for natural, cinematic framing. Action 2 for wide, immersive perspectives.

Battery Life & Runtime

The Osmo Nano’s built-in 530 mAh battery lasts around 90 minutes when shooting at 1080p/24fps. Paired with its multifunction dock, you can extend runtime significantly for longer shoots.

The Action 2’s 580 mAh internal battery provides about 70 minutes of operation, with the option to attach power or front touchscreen modules to extend total runtime up to 160 minutes.

Osmo Nano offers longer continuous filming out of the box. Action 2’s modular battery system adds flexibility for extended sessions.

Durability & Waterproofing

The Osmo Nano is waterproof up to 10 meters as a standalone camera and splash-resistant when used with the multifunction dock. While not an extreme sports camera, it’s still capable of handling light rain and outdoor shooting.

The Action 2 is designed to take on rougher conditions. It’s waterproof up to 10 meters without any case and up to 60 meters with the optional waterproof housing. Its aluminum alloy body is shock-resistant and built for high-impact use.

Action 2 wins for durability and rugged outdoor filming. Osmo Nano is ideal for lighter handheld and travel use.

Portability & Weight

Both cameras are small and pocketable, but their shapes serve different purposes.

The Osmo Nano weighs around 52 g for the camera and 72 g with its dock. Its foldable gimbal design makes it slightly larger but still easy to pack.

The Action 2 weighs 56 g for the camera core and 64 g with its module - one of the most compact action cameras ever made. Its magnetic modular system makes it extremely versatile for quick mounting.

Action 2 wins for portability and flexibility. Osmo Nano remains ideal for handheld creators who prefer a traditional camera feel.

Who Should Choose Which?

Choose DJI Osmo Nano If:

  • You film vlogs, travel stories, or cinematic handheld videos.

  • You want the smoothest stabilisation from a real 3-axis gimbal.

  • You prefer longer battery life for uninterrupted shooting.

  • You don’t need extreme waterproofing or high-speed mounting.

Choose DJI Action 2 If:

  • You need a tough, mountable camera for sports or adventure.

  • You want ultra-wide 4K 120 fps footage and slow motion.

  • You value modular flexibility with extended power options.

  • You plan to film in water, rain, or challenging conditions.

Both cameras showcase DJI’s innovation in pocket-sized video technology.

The DJI Osmo Nano is the handheld filmmaker’s dream - built for cinematic movement, steady footage, and creative control. The DJI Action 2 is a great adventure camera - rugged, flexible, and made to capture every high-speed moment.

No matter which you choose, both are powerful tools that bring professional-quality video to your pocket.

Ready to buy? You can purchase the DJI Osmo Nano from our store with fast shipping and full warranty support.

Alternatively, if you already own an Action 2, browse our range of DJI Action 2 Accessories.

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