Insta360 just hit the market with their very cool INSTA360 ONE R 1-INCH EDITION. That’s right, a 1-inch sensor packed into a super small package.

For those who haven’t been paying attention, insta360 became a household name with their super cool 360-degree camera. Now they have done it again with a modular lego-like camera building system. To top it all off Insta360 teamed up with Leica to create a super stellar lens.

OUR VERDICT

Insta360 has created a novel approach to Action cameras and the Insta360 One R is an impressive offering. The interchangeable modular block system is a game changer.

Review

For 2020 Insta360 entered the action camera market with its Insta360 One R system. Think of it as your favorite lego action camera. The One R platform is designed to be interchangeable with a 360 setup, a normal action camera setup or a kick-butt wide-angle 1-inch sensor lens setup.

The One R 1-Inch Edition is the top of the line action camera that comes with a huge 1-inch sensor. Something not seen in any other action camera to date other than the Sony RX0. Beyond that, it comes with an F3.2 aperture 14.4mm Leica lens, which blows away anything in its category.

Modular Setup

The One R is made up of a processor module with a touchscreen display, a lens module, and a battery module. Insta360 sells the One R in one of 3 camera lens configurations (Dual Lens, 4K Wide Angle, and 1-Inch 5.3K Wide Angle). For the camera to work the processor module, lens module and battery module all need to be connected.

Vlogging

We all know that Action cameras are built for action, but ever since DJI came out with their forward-facing screen, action camera competitors have been courting vloggers by doing the same. DJI does it right out of the box with the DJI Osmo Action while GoPro opted to create an accessory called the GoPro Media Mod.

With Insta360 One R you have the option to display the screen either in the front or rear based on camera configuration. While it doesn’t provide a dual-screen setup like the Osmo Action, it does one-up GoPro’s single fixed rear screen.

1-Inch Sensor Edition

Insta360 joined forces with Leica to level-up the action cam. The One R utilizes a premium 1-Inch sensor to capture amazing video.

Audio

The ONE R comes standard with a 3.5mm mic adapter making it vlog ready for those who want better audio. You can also purchase an optional top-mounted Accessory Shoe.

The One R also will pair with a RODE Wireless GO and even record audio directly onto Apple AirPods.

GPS-Enabled Stats

The ONE R tracks your movement via GPS allowing you to overlay cool HUD data like speed, altitude, direction, and route. For road and Mountainbike cyclists, this is a welcome feature and can really spice up a video.

FLOWSTATE STABILIZATION

Insta360 uses what they call Flowstate Stabilization, which is similar to the GoPro Hero 8’s Hypersmooth and DJI Osmo Actions Rock Steady. FlowState achieves gimbal-like stabilization without the gimbal. Thanks to a new scene-detection algorithm, your footage stays clear and steady even in low light.

Stabilization in action cameras has gotten really really good, but it does come with one drawback. Anytime you have stabilization turned on the camera’s algorithm does have to perform some cropping, which may or may not be to your liking.

Waterproof

To truly be an action camera, it must be waterproof and the Insta360 ONE R is IPX8 waterproof to 5m (16.4ft), which on the IPX scale, is top-rated for dealing with water, moisture, and the outdoor elements.

*NOTE: ONE R is waterproof after being fully assembled and installed in the included Mounting Bracket.

Insta360 One R 1-Inch Edition Action Camera

The post Insta360 One R 1-Inch edition in-Depth Review appeared first on Gear Mashers.

So you have your brand spanking new iPhone 11 and you’re wondering how to get more out of it, well you have come to the right place.

Just a few years ago the thought of using a phone for serious video capture was laughable, but times have changed. Smartphones have become awesome tools of the trade. They are small, portable and always seem to be with you.

Smartphones are…Smart and they are starting to take amazing video thanks to improvements in technology and onboard lenses.

The new iPhone 11 Pro, for instance, features a whopping 3 lenses including an ultra-wide 13mm lens, a wide 26mm lens, and a telephoto 52mm focal length lens.

Having 3 lenses provides all sorts of options on creating spectacular videos.

With all that said most people don’t have it in their budget to constantly keep up with the Joneses every time a new iPhone or Galaxy comes out. So what is a videographer to do? Accessorize…accessorize…accessorize.

While phones have gotten better, so have accessories for phones. Companies like Movi, DJI, Smallrig, BeastGrip and Moment all have stellar accessories specifically made for smartphones.

Turn On Airplane Mode

When using your smartphone as a vlogging setup, make sure to put your phone in Airplane Mode. If you are not familiar with the term, Airplane mode disables a smartphone’s wireless transmissions including cellular radio, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth.

This means that while you are shooting, you will not get an annoying phone or text, which could blow a crucial shoot.

On your iPhone, open Control Center, then tap the Airplane icon. You can also go to Settings > Airplane Mode and tap the slider to turn it on.

With iOS 13 and iPadOS, when you turn on Airplane Mode, it turns off all radios except for Bluetooth. If you turn off Bluetooth while you’re in Airplane Mode, your device will remember the next time you turn on Airplane Mode.

Smartphone External Lenses

Right now there are 2 companies that stand out and are on the cutting edge of creating outstanding external lenses for smartphones. The companies include Moment and Sandmarc. At some point, bigger players such as Sony and Canon will probably add to the mix.

You simply can not go wrong with either company.

We reached out to both Moment and Sandmarc. Moment was fast on the trigger and sent us 2 of their lenses (Wide-angle and Anamorphic) + a very cool phone case.

Initial observations are that Moment makes super high quality products. We will showcase what was sent in an upcoming review.

Why use an External Lens on a Smartphone?

Just like a professional DSLR camera, more lenses of different focal lengths give you more options on how you can shoot video. Sometimes it’s an artistic thing and sometimes it just makes sense.

Types Of Lens Attachments For Smartphones

In order to use an external lens on a smartphone, you will need some way to attach it. Lens attachments come in 3 flavors

• Clipped On
• Smartphone Case
• Smartphone Cage

Clip-On

The clip-on lens attachment is quick, but it is bulkier and not as elegant. Most lens clip-ons also require the phone to be out of its protective case leaving it more prone to be damaged.

Smartphone Case

A smartphone case protects the phone from damage but requires a specific case for a specific phone. It’s more customized and has a higher price point. That said, it’s usually the best option going forward for convenience and size. Most smartphone cases are designed for lenses and have some type of quick release mechanism making it easy to switch from lens to lens.

The downside to a smartphone case is you usually don’t have any attachment points for external devices including lights, microphones, and handles.

Smartphone Cage

Smartphone cages are the bulkiest but provide attachment points for cold shoes and usually include numerous ¼”-20 mounts. One of our favorites right now is the BeastGrip Beastcage for the iPhone.

It is not overly bulky, but it gives you plenty of options for adding attachments and comes closest to being a videographer’s setup. It can be mounted on a tripod, use nato handles and all around is the most versatile setup we have seen.

Note: If you plan on buying a smartphone case or cage, just make sure it will work with your existing smartphone lenses or ones you plan on buying.

For example the Beastcage uses a 37mm lens mount plate.

Types of Lenses For Smartphones

Smartphone lenses come in 5 main categories including

• Anamorphic Lens (Made for cinematic filmmaking)
• Wide Angle Lens (Provides wider capture)
• Macro Lens (Used for small, vivid details and close-ups)
• Telephoto Lens (Usually provides 2x or more Zoom)
• Fisheye Lens (Made for wider capture)

Both Moment and Sandmarc make fantastic lenses for smartphones and realistically you will not be disappointed with either.

Below is a great review of some wide-angle lens offerings where the Sandmarc came out on top.

Rather than buying the lenses piecemeal, both Moment and Sandmarc offer package deals, which can save you some coin.

Smartphone Clamp | Phone Mount

So you’re not quite sure if you want to invest in a smartphone cage or lens, but you do want to have a way to hold your phone and maybe mount it to a tripod or action stick. No problem, a smartphone clamp is another option to think about.

Most smartphone clamps provide at least one ¼”-20 mount and some like the Manfrotto TwistGrip Universal Smartphone Clamp also contain a Cold Shoe adapter for accessories such as a mic or LED light. Pretty cool.

Companies like Joby and Manfrotto make inexpensive smartphone clamps that are easy to use and can mount on mini tripods like the Manfrotto PIXI EVO 2-Section Mini Tripod.

For those wishing for a bit more versatility in a tripod, the Joby GripTight PRO 2 GorillaPod is a great option.

Gimbals And Stabilization

Ah yes, stabilizing your footage at times can be frustrating and what you thought would look good turns out to be a bouncy mess. Never fear the Gimbals are here.

While smartphone stabilization has greatly improved over the years, it’s still not as good as using a gimble or something like a GoPro Hero 8.

If stabilization is important, especially while filming on the move, a gimbal can greatly improve the footage.

Currently, my top picks include the DJI Osmo Mobile 3, ZHIYUN SMOOTH 4, and Freefly Movi.

Smartphone Microphones | Audio Recording

Audio can often make or break a good video. Smartphones aren’t known for having great microphones, so external mics are usually preferred.

There are a few companies that rock the audio recording scene include SHURE and RODE.

Currently one of the best plug and record microphones is the SHURE MV88. The MV88 is what is known as a directional microphone that plugs into the lightning port of an iPhone. What’s super cool is the microphone can tilt 180 degrees allowing you to position it towards the subject or in selfie mode.

Note: Some camera cases prevent the MV88 from being plugged in, so you will need to remove your phone in order to do so.

Also, another disadvantage is you will not be able to charge your phone while doing audio recordings since the lightning plug would be used by the microphone.

Lastly, the MV88 will not work with applications like Periscope or Facebook Live.

To address these limitations Shure came out with the MV88+. While not as convenient, the MV88+ is a better overall microphone.

Another favorite is an update to the MV88 called the MV88+.

The MV88+ produces better sound quality and provides more options for mounting. Unlike the original MV88, you can use it for Live Streaming.

Another great option is the Rode VideoMic Me. Like the MV88, the VideoMic Me is plug and record without all the excess cables of the MV88+.

The post Vlogging With A Smartphone | Best Ways To Take iPhone Videos appeared first on Gear Mashers.

Today we are taking a look at the very cool GoPro Hero 8 Black or as some call it the HERO8. The Hero 8 is GoPro’s flagship action camera and at present the top to the food chain for amazing stabilization.

OUR VERDICT

The GoPro Hero 8 Black is an impressive offering from GoPro and currently has the absolute best stabilization called Hypersmooth 2.0. The action camera comes packed with advanced features that put it ahead of its competition and previous itterations.

One Key feature that sets the GoPro apart from previous versions is its killer audio recording (3 microphones) and extremely good Hypersmooth stability.

Check out our full review or just click on one of the following to get the inside scope.

So let’s get started with all the great news.

GoPro Hero 8 Black Unboxing

GoPro packages the GoPro Hero 8 Black in their typical consumer plastic see-through display box.

Inside the box, GoPro includes a User Manual and GoPro Plus ad, 1 USB-C power cord, 1 GoPro Hero8 Battery, 1 sticky mount, a thumb screw and of course the Go Pro Hero 8 Black Action Camera.

OBSERVATION: GoPro’s packaging is top notch and for retailers makes for a very nice display.

One thing that sort of annoys me with both GoPro and DJI is the fact that the action cameras don’t come with a battery charger. I would be willing to pay a bit more for that rather than having to buy it separately.

GoPro Hero 8 Black Review

GoPro officially launched the GoPro Hero 8 Black October 1st, 2019. Almost all the rumors about the GoPro Hero 8 Black we compiled for 2019 came true, well except 120fps at 4k (We could only wish).

New Look

The GoPro Hero 8 Black is a complete redesign from the previous versions including the GoPro Hero 7, Hero 6 and Hero 5.

THE GOOD NEWS: GoPro has nailed Video Stabilization with the new Hypersmooth 2.0 and added some really cool features like Timewarp 2.0 and customized presets.

GoPro also improved audio by including 3 microphones.

Lastly, the overall body seems a bit more professional than previous versions.

THE BAD NEWS: With GoPro going to a new body design for the Hero 8, it means older camera cases and other accessories like the GoPro Karma Grip will not work.

Non-removable lens cap. GoPro nixed the ability to remove the lens cap, which many vloggers and videographers have frowned upon.

New Features

• Larger Body
• 3 Microphones
• HyperSmooth 2.0
• TimeWarp 2.0
• Improved  HDR
• Live burst photos
• Better low light image processing
• RAW Photos 
• 100Mbps bitrate for 4K and 2.7K
• Capture presets

Size Comparison and Screen Size

Below are size comparisons between the DJI Osmo Action, GoPro Hero 8 Black and the GoPro Hero 7 Black.

OBSERVATION: The GoPro Hero 8 Black has a smaller rear screen than the Osmo Action and doesn’t include a forward facing screen.

Larger Body

GoPro redesigned the GoPro Hero 8 making it a little larger, yet slimmer. The end result is the new GoPro will not be compatible with older cases and products like GoPro’s gimbal, the Karma Grip.

The camera’s lens cover has a lower profile than previous versions due to it’s fixed nature (non-removable). While this change slims down the GoPro, it does come with the disadvantage of not being able to swap out lens covers with new ones or ND filters. Also if you happen to crack or scratch the front glass, you can’t replace it and will have to send it back to GoPro for repair.

3 Microphones

To improve wind noise reduction and enhance audio, GoPro added a 3rd forward-facing microphone to the Hero.

Hypersmooth 2.0 Stabilization

In order to improve stabilization (Hypersmooth 2.0) for the new GoPro Hero 8 Black, GoPro had to redesign the battery. This redesign allowed GoPro to extend Hypersmooth for all framerates, but keep the battery size the same.

Important Note: Previous versions of GoPro batteries will work in the newer GoPro, but users will not have the advantage of being able to use Hypersmooth in all framerates. If your goal is to use Hypersmooth and not have to worry about battery issues allowing or not allowing the Hypersmooth functionality, I would suggest buying the newer GoPro Hero 8 batteries.

There are 4 Hypersmooth settings including (Off, On, High, and Boost). At each setting more cropping is introduced to improve the stabilization of the footage.

GoPro Timewarp 2.0

Gopro has improved Timewarp 2.0 and added a cool feature that allows users to switch between Timewarp and real-time footage. This allows you to create unique Timewarps, switching between fast and normal motion.

Currently, when in Timewarp and during normal recording, the new GoPro doesn’t record audio.

GoPro SuperPhoto + Improved HDR

GoPros are best known for their action camera capabilities, but they are also quite good at taking stills. GoPro has tweaked the SuperPhoto and HDR to make it even better.

GoPro Live Burst

We all have had those moments where we just weren’t fast enough to capture the moment. To help solve this issue GoPro create what they call Live Burst which captures 1.5 seconds before and after you click the shutter button for something like 90 frames of images.

DJI Osmo Action Vs GoPro Hero 8 Black Stabilization (Running Walking)

I like to start off the review with a few comparison video reviews I did between the GoPro Hero 8 Black and the DJI Osmo Action. In the comparisons, I tested stabilization, audio, color and picture quality while walking, running and mountain biking.

DJI Osmo Action Vs GoPro Hero 8 Black Stabilization (Mountain Biking MTB)

GoPro Hero 8 Black Media Accessories

GoPro introduces a brand new series of Mods (i.e. modules) for the GoPro Hero 8 Black line including the media mod ($79.99) for “vloggers,” the display mod ($79.99) also for vloggers, which provides a selfie screen and the light mod ($49.99). We will cover these in more detail below.

GoPro’s Hero8 Black is available to pre-order from today for $399 with the first shipment scheduled for October 15. It should be available in retail stores starting the week of October 20th.

GoPro mods will not be available to pre-order until December. 

GoPro Media Mod

The GoPro Media Mod is a must-have addition for GoPro Hero 8 users. It provides 2 cold shoes for mounting, a directional mic and a 3.5mm mic jack for vlogging. It really is the ultimate vlogging setup and certainly exceeds expectations for what people were looking for in the next generation of GoPros.

The Specifications of Media Mode Include.

• Built-in directional mic delivers crystal-clear audio and reduces wind and ambient noise
• 2 cold-shoe mounts to attach your favorite lights, mics or LCD screens
• 3.5mm mic port lets you add an external mic for enhanced audio
• HDMI-out port to monitor or playback your footage
• The unique and compact wraparound design adds portable expandability and ensures mounting remains easy
• Specially designed for use with Display Mod and Light Mod for HERO8 Black, and compatible with third-party accessories

GoPro Screen Mod

GoPro is coming out with a new accessory called the GoPro screen Mod, which should satisfy vloggers who want to use the GoPro as one of their vlogging tools.

Frame the shot with Display Mod, the flip-up screen that lets you see yourself in action.  Compact and perfect for vloggers, it connects to your HERO 8 Black via Media Mod (sold separately).

• 2-inch flip-up screen (1.9 in Display) makes vlogging easy
• Built-in rechargeable battery (680mAh) and micro-HDMI connector
• Folding design for easy storage and transport
• Compact and sturdy with a low-profile appearance
• Connects to HERO8 Black via the required Media Mod (sold separately)

GoPro Light Mod

While the lighting system specs seem pretty good, I haven’t figure out if I would really need it. I don’t do a lot of nighttime shooting, so I might put the GoPro Light Mod as a possible purchase rather than a must-have.

The Specifications of Lighting Mode Include.

• 4 levels of brightness — up to 200 lumens — for crisp detail
• Built tough and waterproof to 33ft (10m)
• Built-in rechargeable battery with up to 6 hours of runtime1
• Compact design is perfect as an add-on to your HERO8 Black, or as a standalone light for use with GoPro mounts
• Connects to HERO 8 Black via Media Mod (sold separately)
• Maximum brightness for up to 30 seconds with Overdrive mode
• Strobe mode for signaling and visibility

Light Specifications:

• Overdrive mode: 200 lumens, 200 lux @1m
• Level 3: 125 lumens, 120 lux @1m
• Level 2: 60 lumens
• Level 1: 20 lumens
• Runtime: 1 hour at Level 3, 2 hours at Level 2, 6 hours at Level 11
• Color temperature without diffuser: 5700K
• CRI: 90

GoPro Hero 8 Black Vs DJI Osmo Action

To date, the biggest competition to the Hero 8 is the DJI Osmo Action.

GoPro is currently leading the action camera market with its Hypersmooth and Timewarp capabilities that currently other action camera’s stabilization methods like DJI’s Rocksteady can’t match.

Where the GoPro falls short against the Osmo Action is not having a forward-facing screen and not having a removable lens cap.

GoPro Hero 8 Black Updates & New Features

New Features 

• HyperSmooth 2.0
• TimeWarp 2.0
• Live burst photos
• Improved  HDR
• Better low light image processing
• RAW Photos 
• 100Mbps bitrate for 4K and 2.7K
• Capture presets

Top GoPro Hero 8 Black Improvements And Updates

Top GoPro Hero 8 Black Negatives

Questions And Answers

VERDICT

OUR VERDICT

The GoPro Hero 8 Black is an impressive offering from GoPro and currently has the absolute best stabilization called Hypersmooth 2.0. The action camera comes packed with advanced features that put it ahead of its competition and previous itterations.

One Key feature that sets the GoPro apart from previous versions is its killer audio recording (3 microphones) and extremely good Hypersmooth stability.

The post GoPro HERO 8 Black Review Hero8 In-Depth| Best Action Camera appeared first on Gear Mashers.

Today we are taking a look at the very cool DJI OSMO Action. The OSMO Action is DJI’s flagship action camera and at present, the only true action camera DJI makes.

OUR VERDICT

The DJI Osmo Action is an impressive offering from DJ and is the absolute best alternative right now to a GoPro. The action camera comes packed with advanced features and in many ways outclasses the GoPro from usability to overall performance.

One key feature that sets the Osmo apart is its forward-facing screen.

Check out our full review or just click on one of the following to get the inside scope.

DJI OSMO Action Unboxing

DJI Osmo Action packaging consisted of a no-nonsense box without the fanfare of other competitor action cameras like the GoPro Hero 8. Instead of a see-thru display box, it’s just a white box with an image of the Osmo Action and the DJI logo.

OBSERVATION: I found the packaging to be adequate, but probably something that I would throw away.

DJI OSMO Action Review

We reached out to DJI about getting our hands on their Osmo Action and soon after a package arrived containing our first DJI product.

We got right to testing but found there was a weird background hum when recording videos and playing back the audio. After talking to DJI’s tech support team, it was determined our action camera was defective, so we sent it back and got a brand new one. We have had zero issues with the 2nd one we received.

Getting Started and Firmware Update

When you receive your OSMO Action the first thing you should do is charge the device. Each camera comes with a battery and a USB to USB-C charging cord.

Next, you will need to download the DJI Mimo App on to your smartphone or iPad. The Mimo app will allow you to download camera firmware upgrades.

To do so

Power on Osmo Action and enter the DJI Mimo app. When there is a new firmware version, you will receive a prompt for firmware upgrading at the top of the DJI Mimo app’s main page.

Click “download” to upgrade immediately.

Due to a large amount of data, you are recommended to download the latest firmware via Wi-Fi. (You can also download directly with mobile data.) . Just follow the Mimo app directions to upgrade the firmware according to the prompts in the app.

OBSERVATION: I found the setup process pretty easy and intuitive.

2 Screen Display

The Osmo Action comes with both a forward-facing screen and a rear-facing screen.

On the left side of the camera, there is a quick switch (QS) button that allows you to switch between viewable screens. Holding the button down you will hear a switching sound that indicates the camera is in forward-facing mode or rear-facing mode.

OBSERVATION: One pain point with the forward facing screen is it tends to be laggy when Rocksteady is turned on. There is a slight delay because the camera is processing cropping via the Rocksteady mode.

Another issue I have is with the dual-screen setup is at least right now you can’t have booth screens on at the same time. You have to click the Quick Switch (QS) button to switch between modes.

Battery Setup

DJI decided to do something a bit different with their Osmo Action batteries. Rather than having a battery door that opens into a battery compartment as the GoPros have, the Osmo Action battery serves as both the door and battery. It’s a brilliant design and makes changing batteries a breeze.

There are 2 battery release buttons that also serve as warning indicators should the battery not be seated correctly. Each button comes with a visual orange strip that if shown means the battery needs to be pushed in further in.

When the battery level falls to 10% or below any time you turn on the Osmo a warning message displays letting you know how much battery charge is remaining.

OBSERVATION: Love the overall design of the battery-door combo.

The biggest negative is if the camera is in a protective case, it has to be removed so that a battery change can take place.

Operation Of The DJI OSMO Action

There are 3 buttons located on the Osmo including a power on/off button, a record button, and a QS (Quick Switch) button.

The power and video record/take picture buttons are located on the top of the camera.

The Display button turns on and off the camera as well as turns on and off the display. To turn on the camera simply hold the power button. To turn off the camera hold the power button. When the camera is turned on clicking the power button will turn the display on or off.

The Quick Switch (QS) button is located on the left side of the camera.

OBSERVATIONS: I really love the button layout of the Osmo. Everything makes sense and works smoothly.

It would be nice to have the option to have both the front and rear screens visible at the same time. Currently, the camera only can show one at a time.

Camera Case

The Osmo comes standard with a plastic protective case that will house the Osmo should you wish to use it.

I have used quite a few camera cases and this case by far is one of the easiest to use and much better than the GoPro cases that come standard with GoPro 7s and previous versions.

The case comes standard with a mounting bracket and thumb screw.

OBSERVATION: While I love the camera case, it does come with 2 obvious issues. You can’t swap out batteries or memory cards while the Osmo is housed.

If you remove the Osmo’s side door before putting it into the case, a cutout will allow access to the USB-C port and memory port. Doing so, however, will mean the camera isn’t waterproof since the door has been removed.

Micro Flashcard and USB-C Charging Port

DJI comes standard with a slot for a micro flashcard and a USB-C charging port. The camera comes equipped with a USB to USB-C cable that can be used to charge the Osmo.

That said, the case does allow for full access to all the buttons

OBSERVATION: I found the side door easy to open and close. I also had zero problems inserting or removing a micro flashcard.

The side door is removeable which is helpful if the camera is in its case and you need to access the memory slot or USB-C port.

Removable Lens Cap

When GoPro released the Hero 8 Black, its engineers eliminated the ability to remove the front lens cap that had been standard on older GoPros. To me, this was a huge mistake and also created quite a backlash from reviewers.

DJI on the other hand, improved upon what GoPro had done with their previous versions and came out with a screw-on lens cap.

This gives Osmo Action camera users the option to replace the cap with things like ND filters or replacement caps, should the one that comes with it get scratched.

OBSERVATION: DJI’s use of a screw-on lens cap is much easier than previous GoPro screw-on versions and certainly is well received by its user base.

Video Capabilities

With the Osmo Action being an action camera it comes with a ton of video options.

• 4K (16:9) – 60, 50, 48, 30, 25, 24fps
• 4K (4:3) – 30, 25, 24fps
• 2.7K (4:3) – 30, 25, 24fps
• 2.7K (16:9) – 60, 50, 48, 30, 25, 24fps
• 1080p – 240, 200, 120, 100, 60, 50, 48, 30, 25, 24fps
• 720p – 240, 200fps

While many of these options are good, I tend to stick with 4K or 1080. The rub with the Osmo Action is if you have RockSteady turned on, which is DJI’s equivalent to GoPro’s Hypersmooth, cropping will occur. Turning off RockSteady will eliminate the cropping issue, but then you run into stabilization issues.

For those looking for Slow Motion action, the Osmo can do

• 720p 120, 240fps Speed: 4/8
• 1080p 120, 240fps Speed: 4/8

I did a few comparisons between the GoPro Hero 8 Black vs DJI OSMO Action and found the 8 to be better overall in performance. That said I always was going back to the Osmo Action because it just felt like a better camera.

OBSERVATION: In both sound quality and stabilization the GoPro Hero 8 was the winner in our test. It was a bit unfair as the Hero 8 is GoPro’s latest offering. If we had compared the GoPro 7 Black to the Osmo Action the results would have been much closer.

My guess is both audio and stabilization will be key features for the next iteration of the Osmo.

Audio

The Osmo comes equipped with 2 microphones including a side microphone and a top microphone.

OBSERVATION: In various vlogging tests I conducted, where I recorded both the OSMO Action and the GoPro Hero 8, the GoPro Hero 8 recording was louder and crisper.

Photography Capabilities

While the Osmo is designed for action sports, it still does a pretty stellar job of taking pictures.

• 1. Single
• 2. Countdown: 1/2/3/5/10s
• 3. Timed: 0.5/1/2/3/4/5/8/10/15/20/35/45/65/125s
• 4. Burst: 3/5/7s
• 5. AEB: 1/3EV×3, 2/3EV×3, 1EV×3, 1/3EV×5, 2/3EV×5, 1EV5

Here are a few pictures I took indoors in a regular setting without any adjustments straight out of the camera.

If you want the simplest and quickest option, leave it on the default JPG setting. If you want more control over your images, choose the RAW option. I nearly always use the JPG option because it’s faster and takes up less disk space.

OBSERVATIONS: To be honest I typically will use my phone for pictures because it’s fast and I usually have it with me. I rarely use my action cameras to take pictures.

Size Comparison and Screen Size

Below are size comparisons between the DJI Osmo Action, GoPro Hero 8 Black and the GoPro Hero 7 Black.

OBSERVATION: The DJI Osmo Action beats GoPro’s line of Action cameras with a larger rear screen and the only action camera to have a forward-facing screen. The forward-facing screen is really helpful when vlogging.

DJI OSMO Action Updates & New Features

The DJI Osmo action was the first release for DJI in the Action camera realm and established itself as a direct competitor to the GoPro line of action cameras like the GoPro Hero 7 Black and the GoPro Hero 8 Black.

That said, DJI has released several firmware software updates since the release of the camera.

OBSERVATION: For an OSMO Action 2.0 version I would like to see DJI improve the lag experienced on the forward-facing screen and also improve the Rocksteady stabilization.

Cool Features For A Future Release
GPS
Live Streaming

Technical Specifications

GENERAL

SCREEN

CAMERA

BATTERY

CONNECTION

Questions And Answers

VERDICT

OUR VERDICT

The DJI Osmo Action is an impressive offering from DJ and is the absolute best alternative right now to a GoPro. The action camera comes packed with advanced features and in many ways outclasses the GoPro from usability to overall performance.

One key feature that sets the Osmo apart is its forward-facing screen.

BOTTOM LINE: I am really anxious to see how DJI adjusts its action camera line to increase stabilization and improve audio.

Overall you really can’t go wrong with the Osmo Action. It is a great action camera that will certainly spice up your videos.

Check out DJI for more information.

The post DJI Osmo Action In-Depth Review | DJI’s Action Camera appeared first on Gear Mashers.