What To Know
- The Osmo Action 4 has a 120-degree narrow field of view lens, while the Hero 11 Black has a 132-degree narrow field of view lens.
- While the Hero 11 Black has a slight edge in some areas, such as video resolution and horizon leveling, the Osmo Action 4 offers comparable performance and features at a lower price point.
- The DJI Osmo Action 4 is a formidable competitor to the GoPro Hero 11 Black, offering comparable performance and features at a more budget-friendly price.
The action camera market has been dominated by GoPro for years, but DJI has recently entered the fray with its Osmo Action series. The latest installment, the Osmo Action 4, is a formidable competitor to GoPro’s flagship Hero 11 Black. This in-depth comparison will explore the key features, performance, and value proposition of both cameras to determine if the Osmo Action 4 is indeed the GoPro killer it claims to be.
Image Quality
Photo Resolution and Dynamic Range
Both the Osmo Action 4 and GoPro Hero 11 Black offer impressive photo capabilities. The Osmo Action 4 boasts a 12MP sensor capable of capturing images with a resolution of 4000 x 3000 pixels. The GoPro Hero 11 Black, on the other hand, features a 27MP sensor with a resolution of 5312 x 2988 pixels. While the Hero 11 Black has a higher resolution, the Osmo Action 4’s larger sensor size may provide an advantage in low-light conditions and dynamic range.
Video Resolution and Frame Rates
In terms of video, the Osmo Action 4 and Hero 11 Black can both capture stunning footage in various resolutions and frame rates. The Osmo Action 4 supports 4K video at up to 120fps, while the Hero 11 Black offers 5.3K video at 60fps and 4K video at 120fps. For extreme slow-motion shots, the Hero 11 Black has a slight edge with its ability to record 2.7K video at 240fps.
Stabilization
In-Body Stabilization
Both the Osmo Action 4 and GoPro Hero 11 Black are equipped with advanced in-body stabilization systems. The Osmo Action 4 utilizes DJI’s RockSteady 3.0 stabilization, while the Hero 11 Black features HyperSmooth 5.0. Both systems provide excellent image stabilization, allowing you to capture smooth and steady footage even in shaky conditions.
Horizon Leveling
Horizon leveling is a crucial feature for action cameras, as it ensures that your footage remains level even when the camera is tilted or rotated. The Osmo Action 4 and Hero 11 Black both offer horizon leveling, but the Hero 11 Black’s system is more advanced. It uses a combination of horizon sensors and software algorithms to maintain a level horizon even in extreme conditions.
Field of View
Ultra-Wide Lens
The Osmo Action 4 and Hero 11 Black both feature ultra-wide lenses, allowing you to capture expansive shots with a wide field of view. The Osmo Action 4’s lens has a 155-degree field of view, while the Hero 11 Black’s lens has a slightly wider 170-degree field of view.
Narrow Field of View
For shots where you need a narrower field of view, both cameras offer additional lens options. The Osmo Action 4 has a 120-degree narrow field of view lens, while the Hero 11 Black has a 132-degree narrow field of view lens.
Battery Life
Battery life is a crucial consideration for action cameras, especially when shooting in remote locations or for extended periods. The Osmo Action 4 has a slightly larger battery capacity (1,350mAh) than the Hero 11 Black (1,720mAh). However, the Hero 11 Black’s more efficient processor and lower resolution video modes may result in comparable battery life in real-world usage.
Durability
Both the Osmo Action 4 and GoPro Hero 11 Black are built to withstand the rigors of action sports and outdoor adventures. The Osmo Action 4 has a rugged construction with a reinforced lens and a waterproof rating of up to 33 feet (10 meters). The Hero 11 Black is also durable, with a waterproof rating of up to 33 feet (10 meters) and a toughened lens.
Value Proposition
Pricing
The Osmo Action 4 is priced lower than the GoPro Hero 11 Black, making it a more budget-friendly option. The Osmo Action 4 retails for around $399, while the Hero 11 Black starts at $499.
Features and Performance
While the Hero 11 Black has a slight edge in some areas, such as video resolution and horizon leveling, the Osmo Action 4 offers comparable performance and features at a lower price point.
Takeaways: The Verdict
The DJI Osmo Action 4 is a formidable competitor to the GoPro Hero 11 Black, offering comparable performance and features at a more budget-friendly price. While the Hero 11 Black may have a slight advantage in some areas, the Osmo Action 4 is a well-rounded action camera that delivers excellent image quality, stabilization, and durability. Whether you’re a professional action sports enthusiast or a casual adventurer, the Osmo Action 4 is a great choice for capturing your thrilling moments.
Common Questions and Answers
Which camera has better image quality?
Both the Osmo Action 4 and GoPro Hero 11 Black offer impressive image quality, but the Hero 11 Black has a higher resolution sensor.
Which camera has better stabilization?
Both cameras have excellent in-body stabilization systems, but the Hero 11 Black’s horizon leveling is more advanced.
Which camera has a wider field of view?
The Hero 11 Black has a slightly wider ultra-wide lens (170 degrees) than the Osmo Action 4 (155 degrees).
Which camera has a longer battery life?
Both cameras have comparable battery life, but the Hero 11 Black may have a slight advantage due to its more efficient processor.
Which camera is more affordable?
The Osmo Action 4 is more affordable than the GoPro Hero 11 Black, retailing for around $399 compared to $499.
