DJI Osmo Pocket 4 review: A mini camera for everything from vlogging to professional shoots

DJI has launched the Osmo Pocket 4, the latest iteration of its compact, gimbal-integrated camera lineup. This new model builds upon its predecessor's foundation, featuring a 1-inch image sensor while significantly upgrading hardware performance. Key enhancements include the introduction of high-speed internal storage, support for high-frame-rate slow-motion, and improved battery efficiency.

The external design largely mirrors the previous generation, including the 2-inch OLED touchscreen that powers on when rotated horizontally. The display's brightness has been increased, making it easier to frame shots and identify subjects even in bright outdoor conditions. Despite the small screen size, visibility for real-time monitoring is adequate.

A major upgrade is the inclusion of 107GB of high-speed internal storage, capable of writing and reading at up to 800MB/s. This allows for stable 4K video recording without an external microSD card and speeds up data transfer to external devices, streamlining the overall workflow.

The 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor with an f/2.0 aperture boasts a 14-stop dynamic range. This allows for better detail retention in high-contrast scenes and low-light conditions, reducing noise in darker areas. Testing in urban night settings showed minimal loss of detail in peripheral areas.

Frame rate capabilities have also advanced, with support for up to 240fps in 4K resolution, enabling smooth, high-quality slow-motion footage without compromising image quality. The 2x lossless zoom, utilizing sensor cropping, helps mitigate the limitations of a fixed focal length lens.

The audio system incorporates Osmo Audio technology with 4-channel input/output. The Creator Combo package includes the DJI Mic 3 transmitter, which connects directly to the camera body without a separate receiver. The difference in audio clarity compared to the built-in microphone is significant, making the dedicated mic essential for audio-focused productions.

During tests on busy roads and in windy outdoor environments, the system effectively suppressed ambient noise while precisely capturing the speaker's voice. Multi-microphone simultaneous recording separates audio into distinct tracks, aiding post-production editing. The autofocus system, powered by a deep learning algorithm and next-generation ActiveTrack, maintains focus even when subjects change direction or accelerate rapidly. The 3-axis mechanical gimbal compensates for these movements, though some focusing delays were observed with extremely fast-moving objects.

Battery efficiency has been improved, offering up to 4 hours of continuous recording. The fast-charging feature can replenish the battery to 80% in just 18 minutes, enhancing usability in the field. The Osmo Pocket 4, particularly the Creator Combo, offers enhanced convenience through its internal storage, expanded creative possibilities with high-performance slow-motion, and seamless integration with dedicated microphones.