The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro has emerged as a standout choice in the action camera market, particularly noted for its super impressive battery life and advanced features.
The device primarily addresses a pretty common pain point for action cameras, which is the need for longer recording times. It also feels great in the hand and is really easy to use even for amateur camera operators who just want to be able to start using it straight out of the box with very little learning curve.
The Osmo Action 5 Pro maintains the compact design typical of action cameras, measuring around 1.7 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches and weighing just 147 grams. It is waterproof up to 20 meters without a dive case and features dual colour touch screens—one on the front and a larger one on the back. The front display, although small at 1.5 inches, is bright enough to navigate easily, while the rear screen measures 3 inches diagonally and boasts a brightness of 1,000 nits, making it usable even in direct sunlight.
The camera obviously uses the DJI magnetic mounting system that allows for secure attachment to various surfaces without requiring new accessories if upgrading from previous models. This innovative design is the best way I’ve used for quick and easy attachments and even inspired similar features in recent competing products.
The Osmo Action 5 Pro is equipped with a new 1,950mAh battery and an efficient image processor that enhances its performance. While DJI advertises up to four hours of continuous recording, real-world testing indicates only slightly shorter times and obviously it will depend on what you are doing. I found that I could record for over 3 hours and that is without overheating issues which is astounding.
This camera supports various recording resolutions including up to 4K120, with multiple colour profiles available for different shooting conditions. It captures high-quality video with sharp detail and excellent stabilization through its RockSteady feature, which minimizes jitters and shakes during movement. If you are a pro you can really take advantage of the settings but as a casual user you’ll find the camera does everything for you perfectly so you can jump right into making your first video with ease.
Users can switch between six different modes—including slow motion, timelapse, and subject tracking (similar to the Pocket 3) using a Quick Switch button for added convenience. The latest firmware introduced changes to “Super Night” which allows you to shoot in low light very well. The camera’s interface is user-friendly, allowing for easy navigation through swipe gestures.
The Osmo Action 5 Pro includes built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities, enabling seamless connectivity with the DJI Mimo app on smartphones. This app is essential for activating the camera and offers features such as firmware updates and video transfer for editing purposes, even a live view of what you are recording.
They say for most online videos people will forgive poor video but not poor audio and that is no longer a problem on modern action cams that would always struggle with compatibility. The DJI Osmo Action Pro 5 links seamlessly with the DJI Mic 2 (2 mics in fact) and even the new DJI Mic Minis in much the same way that the Osmo Pocket 3 does. You can also set the camera to record from itself as well as your mics so that you have backup audio or to increase your ambience. There is also inbuilt wind cancelling settings and Automatic Gain Control to avoid clipping. I’ve found it’s always better to use the mics as well as the camera to ensure you have perfect audio every time.
The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro sets a new standard for action cameras with its exceptional battery life, robust design, and high-quality video capabilities. It surpasses its predecessor and excels over the competition in several key areas including screen quality, depth rating, internal storage (48GB), and the device’s outstanding compatibility with professional audio systems.
As a regular user of the DJI OSMO Pocket 3, I’ve found the Osmo Action Pro 5 to be the perfect companion camera both on shoots and to use in a live stream situation as the devices can be used as high-quality web cams. This is done through the USB-c so theres no need for an extra media attachment to go out and purchase.
In Australia, the DJI Osmo Action Pro 5 is around $599 but is also available in packs that give you extra batteries and accessories. I tested the adventure combo that came with extra batteries in a very compact and stylish charging case, 1.5 extension rod as well and some other connectors, you can grab those for $769, but there are packs to suit your adventure, be it biking, hiking, diving or surfing.
For anyone seeking an action camera that excels in both performance and user experience, the Osmo Action 5 Pro is undoubtedly a top contender.
