Battle Of The Compact Cameras: Dji Pocket Vs Action – Who Wins?

The world of compact cameras has witnessed a remarkable evolution with the introduction of DJI Pocket and Action cameras. These miniaturized marvels pack a punch, offering impressive features and capabilities that cater to the needs of vloggers, travelers, and action sports enthusiasts. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the intricacies of DJI Pocket vs. Action, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and suitability for different use cases.

Design and Portability

DJI Pocket: The DJI Pocket is a sleek and ultra-portable camera that weighs only 116 grams. Its compact design makes it easy to carry around in your pocket or backpack, allowing you to capture moments on the go. The Pocket features a built-in 3-axis gimbal that provides smooth and stable footage, even in challenging conditions.

DJI Action: The DJI Action is slightly larger and heavier than the Pocket, weighing 135 grams. Its rugged design makes it suitable for more extreme activities, with water resistance up to 11 meters and shock resistance up to 2 meters. The Action also boasts a larger 1.5-inch touchscreen display compared to the Pocket’s 1-inch display.

Image and Video Quality

DJI Pocket: The Pocket features a 12-megapixel sensor that captures stills and videos in 4K at 60fps. Its wide-angle lens with a 20mm equivalent focal length provides a versatile field of view. The Pocket’s footage is known for its sharp details, accurate colors, and smooth motion.

DJI Action: The Action sports a larger 12-megapixel sensor with a wider aperture of f/2.8, enabling it to capture brighter images and videos in low-light conditions. It offers 4K video recording at 120fps, providing slow-motion capabilities for capturing fast-paced action sequences. The Action’s footage exhibits vibrant colors, high contrast, and excellent dynamic range.

Features and Functionality

DJI Pocket: The Pocket offers a range of features designed to enhance vlogging and filmmaking. Its built-in microphone system provides clear audio, while the DJI Mimo app provides remote control and advanced editing capabilities. The Pocket also features a variety of shooting modes, including Timelapse, Hyperlapse, and Motionlapse.

DJI Action: The Action is packed with features tailored for action sports and extreme activities. It offers a wide range of field-of-view options, including SuperView, which provides an ultra-wide 155° field of view. The Action also features RockSteady 2.0 stabilization, which ensures smooth footage even in high-impact scenarios.

Battery Life and Charging

DJI Pocket: The Pocket has a built-in battery that provides approximately 140 minutes of recording time. It can be charged via USB-C and supports fast charging, allowing you to power it up quickly.

DJI Action: The Action offers a slightly longer battery life of approximately 160 minutes. It also supports USB-C charging and fast charging capabilities.

Accessories and Compatibility

DJI Pocket: The Pocket has a wide range of accessories available, including a waterproof case, extension rod, and wireless microphone. It is also compatible with a variety of DJI Osmo Action accessories.

DJI Action: The Action offers a smaller selection of accessories compared to the Pocket. It is compatible with a few dedicated accessories, such as a floating handle and a protective case.

Price and Value

DJI Pocket: The DJI Pocket is priced at around $349, making it a more affordable option compared to the Action. It offers a great value for vloggers and casual users who prioritize portability and ease of use.

DJI Action: The DJI Action is priced at around $399, making it a slightly more expensive choice. It provides more advanced features and functionality, catering to the needs of action enthusiasts and content creators who require a robust and versatile camera.

Which One Should You Choose?

The best choice between DJI Pocket and Action depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability, ease of use, and a compact design, the DJI Pocket is an excellent option. It is ideal for vloggers, travelers, and casual users who want to capture smooth and stable footage on the go.

If you engage in extreme activities, require high-quality footage in low-light conditions, and need advanced features such as a wider field of view and slow-motion capabilities, the DJI Action is a better choice. It provides the durability, versatility, and performance necessary to capture stunning action sequences.

Other Considerations

Lens Compatibility: Both the DJI Pocket and Action have fixed lenses, which means you cannot change or swap lenses. This limits their versatility compared to interchangeable lens cameras.

Microphone Quality: While both cameras have built-in microphones, they may not provide the best audio quality for professional applications. Consider using external microphones for enhanced sound recording.

Software Updates: DJI regularly releases software updates for both the Pocket and Action, adding new features and improving performance. Ensure you keep your camera’s firmware up to date to benefit from the latest enhancements.

Questions You May Have

Q: Which camera has better image stabilization?
A: Both the DJI Pocket and Action offer excellent image stabilization, but the Pocket has a slight edge due to its 3-axis gimbal.

Q: Can I use the DJI Pocket underwater?
A: No, the DJI Pocket is not waterproof. You will need to purchase a waterproof case as an accessory to use it underwater.

Q: What is the maximum frame rate for video recording on the DJI Action?
A: The DJI Action can record 4K video at up to 120fps, providing slow-motion capabilities.

Q: Can I use the DJI Pocket as a webcam?
A: Yes, the DJI Pocket can be used as a webcam by connecting it to your computer via USB-C.

Q: Which camera is better for night photography?
A: The DJI Action has a larger sensor and a wider aperture, making it better suited for low-light conditions and night photography.