Expert review of the DJI Osmo Action 3
DJI Osmo Action 3 Adventure Combo
- There are 3 batteries in the Adventure Combo, which is useful if you're taking your action camera on the road.
- You can easily attach the camera to various accessories with the magnetic mounts.
- The Action 3 is waterproof up to 16m, which makes it suitable for diving and snorkeling.
- A memory card isn't included, which you need to be able to record.
First impression of the DJI Osmo Action 3
At first glance, the DJI Osmo Action 3 looks familiar. It looks very much like the first action camera by DJI. The camera has a touchscreen both on the front and back. This makes it easier to use. The casing feels sturdy. This is necessary for an action camera, because it needs to be able to withstand extreme conditions.
High image quality
The recordings of the Osmo Action 3 look detailed thanks to the large 1/1.7-inch sensor. I record in 4K at 120fps. These videos look smooth thanks to the high frame rate. I can slow down recordings to slow motion images and they still look smooth. With the slow motion shots, I can emphasize great action moments even more. In Full HD, I can even record at 240fps.
Adjustable colors for accurate post-editing
I can choose between 2 color profiles for my recordings. The D Cinelike profile has flat colors that are great for post-editing. This is for the more experienced video makers. Do you want to be able to share images directly on Instagram or TikTok? You can use the Normal Color profile. In this profile, the colors look bright and have a high contrast. When I switch from video to hyperlapse, I have to turn on D Cinelike again. If I don't do this, I record in Normal Color by default.
Different image stabilization options
Thanks to the good image stabilization of the Osmo Action 3, I can record smooth videos while working out. I have different options to choose from. With HorizonSteady or HorizonBalancing stabilization, my horizon stays straight. The difference between these 2 is that the horizon stays straight always, even when I rotate the camera 360 degrees. HorizonBalancing keeps the horizon straight up to 45 degrees. When I turn the camera more than 45 degrees, the horizon moves along with the camera.
Easy in use thanks to the magnetic attachment
I find it very convenient that both screens are touchscreens. This makes it very easy for me to adjust the camera settings. DJI used the same magnetic attachment as with the Action 2. This is very fast and the magnets are really strong. While working out, I don't feel like I'm going to lose the camera soon. If I want to change my point of view, I can easily remove the camera from the mount and hold it in my hand.
Adventure Combo with extra accessories
The Adventure Combo includes various extra accessories. I find the 2 included magnets very useful. I can screw the magnet onto a selfiestick or another accessory. I can't do this while working out. If I attach magnets to multiple accessories, I can easily switch the action camera during my workout. This Combo also includes 3 batteries, which allows me to use the action camera for longer. I can charge the batteries simultaneously in the charging hub.
Conclusion
The DJI Osmo Action 3 is a versatile action camera you can use to smoothly capture extreme sports. The setting options are extensive. I can choose between 3 color profiles, record with various frame rates, and determine how the camera stabilizes my images, for example. The 4k resolution ensures detailed images. In addition, the magnetic attachment system is fast and easy to work with. I do recommend using multiple magnets. If you only use 1 magnet, the advantage of the magnetic attachment is minimal.
