DJI’s adventure into modular cameras is over – the new Osmo Action 3 camera goes back to the one-piece design of the original (and brings back the “Osmo” name to further distance itself from the Action 2). The DJI Osmo Action 3 uses a similar camera setup as the Action 2 – a 12MP 1/1.7” sensor behind a 155° ultra wide lens (f/2.8). Videos are recorded to a microSD card at up to 130Mbps. The basic video modes are as before – 4K at 120fps (16:9) or at 60fps (4:3) and 1080p at 240fps (16:9). There are several slow motion modes and Hyperlapse at up to 4K resolution.
The new model brings an improved
RockSteady 3.0 electronic image stabilization, which works at up to 4K/120fps.
HorizonSteady is back and will keep the horizon level even if you spin the
camera 360°, however, it is limited to 2.7K/60fps. There is a new HorizonBalancing
mode as a middle ground, it can correct tilt up to 45° and works at up to
4K/60fps. Since vertical video is unfortunately popular in the modern world,
the camera comes with a new protective frame that has two attachment points –
one on the bottom and one on the side, so you can quickly switch between
horizontal and vertical video. The quick release design has been improved since
the Action 2 by adding notches for “a locked-in, impact-resistant hold”.
The small 1.4” display on the front of the
Osmo Action 3 has gained touch functionality, so vloggers can use it to change
the settings of the camera. Something similar was possible with the Front
Touchscreen Module of the Action 2, but that’s in the past. Also, the rear
display is larger, 2.25” (up from 1.76”). The camera can record up to 160
minutes (at 1080p/30fps, no EIS, screens off). Thanks to improved thermals, the
only limit on 4K/60fps recording is how long the battery will last.
More impressively, it has a wide operating
temperature of -20° to 45°C (-4° to 113°F) with the included battery. GoPro
usually sells its Enduro Extended cold weather batteries separately. Do note
that you can’t charge the batteries below freezing (a common problem with
lithium batteries), the charging range is 5° to 40°C (41° to 104°F). On the
plus side, the battery has fast charging support – the 0-80% time is 18
minutes, the remaining 20% need another 32 minutes.
The camera is waterproof and can dive down
to 16m (52ft) without a case. DJI does have a special case if you need to go
deeper. A color temperature sensor helps the camera provide more accurate color
underwater and when transitioning to the surface. The two touchscreens and the
camera lens are protected by Gorilla Glass and can withstand drops from 1.5m
(5ft). Also, the screens have hydrophobic coating, which lets you use them even
with wet fingers.
For audio, the camera has three
microphones on board and you can plug in external mics using the USB-C to 3.5mm
adapter. The Action 3 can also be used as a webcam for high quality video and
audio during conference calls and livestreams. The DJI Osmo Action 3 is
available starting today over at the DJI store. The standard combo is US$ 330/€ 360/£ 310 (camera, horizontal/vertical protective case plus some mounting
accessories) the Adventure combo is US$ 440/€ 460/£ 400 (adds two extra batteries, a
battery case and a 1.5m extension rod).
