DJI Osmo Action 3: The Action Cam That Refuses to Quit
The action camera market is a brutal arena, constantly demanding innovation and resilience. DJI’s Osmo Action series has always been a contender, and the Action 3 arrives with a clear message: it’s here to stay and it’s ready for anything. Forget the modular design of its predecessor; the Action 3 returns to a more classic form factor, packing a serious punch in terms of image quality, durability, and ease of use. But does it have what it takes to dethrone the GoPro juggernaut? Let’s dive in.
The Action 3 boasts a 1/1.7-inch sensor, a notable upgrade that translates to impressive low-light performance compared to previous models. Image stabilization, powered by DJI’s RockSteady 3.0+, is phenomenal, delivering incredibly smooth footage even during intense activities like mountain biking or running. HorizonSteady keeps your shots level, eliminating unwanted tilting, though it sometimes struggles with very rapid, jerky movements. The wide 155° field of view captures expansive scenes, but does introduce noticeable distortion at the edges, a common trade-off with ultra-wide lenses.
DJI has clearly prioritized durability. The Action 3 is rugged and waterproof to 16 meters (52 feet) without any additional housing, making it a true go-anywhere, do-anything camera. The dual touchscreens (front and rear) are responsive and bright, even in direct sunlight. The magnetic quick-release system is a game-changer, allowing for incredibly fast and secure mounting and unmounting. However, the magnetic mount can occasionally disconnect under extreme jarring forces.
Battery life is respectable, offering over two hours of recording time in most scenarios. The camera also supports fast charging, getting you back in action quickly. The built-in microphone is decent for everyday use, but external microphone support via USB-C is essential for professional-quality audio. The user interface is intuitive and easy to navigate, whether you’re using the touchscreens or the physical buttons. One frustrating aspect is that some advanced settings require using the DJI Mimo app, adding an extra step to the workflow.
From a value perspective, the DJI Osmo Action 3 offers a compelling package. It’s priced competitively, delivering excellent image quality, robust stabilization, and unmatched ease of use. While it may not have every single bell and whistle found on some competitors, its strengths in core areas make it a formidable action camera.
Where to Buy:
DJI Osmo Action 3 Quick Summary
Key Scores:
- Value: 90%
- Design: 88%
- Performance: 87%
- Quality: 86%
- Popularity: 87%
Top Pros
- ✅ Image stabilization delivers incredibly smooth video even in rough conditions.
- ✅ Waterproofing to 16 meters eliminates the need for a separate housing.
- ✅ Magnetic quick-release system enables incredibly fast and secure mounting.
- …
Key Cons
- ❌ Advanced settings often require the DJI Mimo app.
- ❌ Extreme jarring forces can cause the magnetic mount to disconnect.
- ❌ Wide angle lens introduces noticeable distortion at the edges of the frame.
- …
