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).
