DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Review: A Pocket-Sized Powerhouse for Content Creators

Hey there, fellow tech enthusiasts! Bryan here, and today we’re diving into the world of compact cameras with the DJI Osmo Pocket 3. If you’re anything like me, always on the hunt for gear that can keep up with your creative pursuits without weighing you down, you’re in for a treat. Let’s unpack this little marvel and see if it lives up to the hype!

Key Takeaways

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 boasts a 1-inch sensor, a significant upgrade from previous models 3-axis gimbal stabilization ensures smooth footage in a compact package 4K/60fps video recording capability with 10-bit D-Log M and HLG color profiles User-friendly touchscreen interface with a flip-out design Long battery life of up to 135 minutes on a single charge Priced higher than previous models at around RM2300 (basic) and RM3000 (creator combo).

Overview of the product

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is the latest iteration in DJI’s line of compact, portable cameras. When you purchase this bad boy, you’re getting the camera itself, a protective cover, a wrist strap, and a USB-C to USB-C cable for charging and data transfer. I opted for the Complete Package, which also includes a microphone – trust me, it’s worth considering if you’re serious about your audio quality.

What sets the Osmo Pocket 3 apart is its impressive 1-inch sensor, a significant upgrade from previous models. This larger sensor allows for better low-light performance, greater dynamic range, and more detailed captures. It’s like having a mini professional camera in your pocket!

DJI, founded in 2006, has established itself as a leader in the drone and camera stabilization market. With over 14,000 employees worldwide and numerous accolades, including multiple Red Dot Design Awards, DJI has consistently pushed the boundaries of imaging technology.

Things to consider before buying a compact camera

Before we dive deeper, let’s talk about what you need to consider when shopping for a compact camera like the Osmo Pocket 3.

First off, think about why you’re in the market for a compact camera. Are you a vlogger looking for something easy to carry around? A travel enthusiast wanting to capture high-quality memories without lugging around a DSLR? Or maybe you’re a content creator needing a reliable B-roll camera?

The ideal customer for the Osmo Pocket 3 is someone who values portability without sacrificing quality. If you’re often shooting in wet conditions or need professional-grade audio without external accessories, you might want to look at other options like action cameras or mirrorless systems.

Here are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Portability vs. image quality trade-off
2. Stabilization needs for your shooting style
3. Audio requirements (built-in vs. external mic support)
4. Battery life for your typical shooting duration
5. Budget constraints

What’s in the Box? (Creator Combo)

Alright, let’s dive into what you’ll find when you crack open that DJI Osmo Pocket 3 package. It’s like Christmas morning for tech enthusiasts!

First up, you’ve got the star of the show – the Osmo Pocket 3 itself. To keep it safe, there’s a snug Protective Cover. Don’t worry about lugging it around; they’ve thrown in a handy Carrying Bag too.

For all you audio buffs, there’s the DJI Mic 2 Transmitter in sleek Shadow Black, complete with a Clip Magnet to attach it and a Windscreen to tame those breezy days.

Need some stability? You’re covered with the Handle With 1/4″ Thread and a Mini Tripod. And for those marathon shooting sessions, the Battery Handle has your back.

Want to go wide? Slap on the Wide-Angle Lens. Keeping everything juiced up is a breeze with the Type-C to Type-C PD Cable.

Last but not least, there’s a Wrist Strap to keep your precious gear from taking an unexpected dive.

And there you have it – a neat little package that’s ready to roll as soon as you tear off the wrapping.

Features & Benefits

1-inch Sensor: A Game-Changer for Image Quality

The star of the show is undoubtedly the 1-inch CMOS sensor. This larger sensor allows for: Improved low-light performance Greater dynamic range More detailed captures Enhanced depth of field control In practical terms, this means your vlogs and travel videos will have that professional, cinematic look with beautifully blurred backgrounds and crisp subjects. The larger sensor also performs admirably in challenging lighting conditions, making it versatile for both day and night shooting.

3-Axis Gimbal: Silky Smooth Footage

The 3-axis mechanical gimbal is the heart of the Osmo Pocket 3’s stabilization system. This technology ensures:

• Butter-smooth footage even during movement
• Reduction of camera shake and jitter
• Ability to capture steady shots while walking or running

This feature is great because it allows you to capture professional-looking footage without the need for bulky stabilization rigs. That would have been really useful when I was trying to film a walking tour of Taipei’s bustling Ximending district!

4K Video Recording: Crisp, Detailed Footage

With the ability to shoot 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, the Osmo Pocket 3 ensures that your videos are of the highest quality. The colors are vibrant, and the details are crisp, making it an excellent choice for high-resolution content.

Another good feature is the support for 10-bit D-Log M and HLG color profiles, which can help you with color grading in post-production. This is particularly useful if you’re looking to match footage from the Osmo Pocket 3 with other cameras in your setup.

Innovative Touchscreen Interface

The Osmo Pocket 3 features a 2-inch touchscreen that can flip out to face the subject. This design choice offers:

• Easy self-framing for vloggers
• Intuitive control of camera settings
• Quick review of footage on the go

The touchscreen’s responsiveness and user-friendly interface make it easy to adjust settings on the fly, ensuring you never miss a shot due to complicated controls.

Pros & Cons

Personal Experience

I’ve been putting this little camera through its paces for over ten months now, mainly shooting small animals and landscapes. It’s become my go-to for desktop videography too. The portability is a game-changer – it’s so easy to carry around and set up that I’ve found myself reaching for it more often than my bulkier gear.

I opted for the Creator Combo Package, which includes an extra battery and the DJI Mic 2. This decision has proven to be quite convenient, eliminating the need for additional accessory purchases. However, it’s worth noting that the price point is significantly higher compared to its predecessors. For context, my previous Osmo Pocket 1 cost around RM1500, while this latest model is priced close to RM2300 (basic) and RM3000 (creator combo).

Now, I’ve gotta be honest with you – the Osmo Pocket 3 isn’t perfect. One thing that’s been bugging me is the lack of a dedicated infinite focus or hyperfocal distance setting. I get it, it’s probably due to the camera’s lens and sensor design, but man, it can be a real pain sometimes. You know those moments when you’re trying to capture an epic landscape shot, and you want both your buddy in the foreground and that majestic mountain range in the background to be tack sharp? Yeah, that’s when you’ll feel this limitation.

But here’s the thing – and I kinda forgot this when I first started griping – the Osmo Pocket 3 is primarily designed for vlogging and close-up content creation. It’s not really meant to be a landscape photography powerhouse. With a minimum focus distance of about 20cm (8 inches), it’s clear DJI had close-up shots in mind. So while it might not be the go-to for those sweeping vistas, it absolutely shines when you’re capturing your adventures up close and personal.

Now, if you’re dead set on getting that sharp focus on both foreground and background subjects, some users on Reddit have suggested playing around with the focus modes. Apparently, switching between single focus and continuous focus can work as a decent workaround. It’s not perfect, but hey, it’s something to try if you’re in a pinch.

And here’s another biggie – it’s not waterproof. As someone who likes to shoot in all kinds of conditions, this means I have to be extra cautious on rainy days or near water. I was being extremely careful during my recent river trip, let me tell you! It’s a bit of a bummer, but not a deal-breaker if you’re careful. Just remember to pack some waterproof protection if you’re planning any aquatic adventures.

Don’t get me wrong, these quirks aren’t deal-breakers. For most vloggers and content creators, this little camera is still packing some serious punch where it counts. It’s just good to know its limitations so you can work around them and still capture those epic moments.

Alternative Options

While the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is an impressive piece of kit, it might not be the perfect fit for everyone. Here are three alternatives that cater to different needs and preferences:

Feature	DJI Osmo Pocket 3	GoPro Hero 11 Black	Sony ZV-1	Insta360 One RS
Sensor Size	1-inch	1/1.9-inch	1-inch	1/2-inch
Stabilization	3-axis gimbal	HyperSmooth 5.0	Optical SteadyShot	FlowState
Max Video Resolution	4K/60fps	5.3K/60fps	4K/30fps	5.7K/30fps (360°)
Waterproof	No	Yes (33ft/10m)	No	Yes (16ft/5m)
External Mic Support	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Price	~RM2300	~RM2000	~RM3000	~RM2500

GoPro Hero 11 Black

The GoPro Hero 11 Black is the go-to choice for action sports enthusiasts and adventurers. Known for its rugged build and excellent image stabilization, this camera is designed to capture high-quality footage in extreme conditions.

Sony ZV-1

The Sony ZV-1 is a compact camera specifically designed with vloggers and content creators in mind. It combines the image quality of Sony’s larger cameras with features tailored for self-recording and ease of use.

Insta360 One RS

The Insta360 One RS stands out with its modular design and versatility. This innovative camera allows users to switch between traditional and 360-degree filming, making it a flexible option for creative content creators.

What Others Are Saying

After scouring the internet for user experiences with the DJI Osmo Pocket 3, I’ve gotta say, the feedback is pretty darn positive. It seems like content creators and tech enthusiasts are really digging this little powerhouse.

A lot of folks are raving about the image quality, especially considering how compact this camera is. One travel vlogger mentioned it’s become her go-to for capturing those wanderlust-inducing shots.

Filmmakers are particularly stoked about the stabilization. One documentary maker called it “unreal” for B-roll footage.

The Active Track feature is getting a lot of love from solo content creators. It’s like having your own personal camera operator – pretty nifty, right? And let’s not forget about the low-light performance. Videographers are finding it opens up new possibilities for evening and indoor shoots, which is a huge plus if you ask me.

Now, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. Some users mentioned a bit of a learning curve for the more advanced features. But hey, that’s pretty standard for any new tech gadget, and most people found it intuitive enough once they got the hang of it.

The price point raised a few eyebrows, but interestingly, many users felt it was justified by the quality and features. One tech enthusiast said it was “worth every penny” after a month of use. I gotta say, I’m inclined to agree – the convenience and quality are pretty hard to beat.

Overall, it seems like the Osmo Pocket 3 is hitting all the right notes for most users.

Conclusion

After ten months of use, I can confidently say that the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is a solid piece of kit. It’s not perfect – the focusing issues and lack of waterproofing are notable drawbacks. But for what it is – a highly portable, high-quality video camera – it excels.

The 1-inch sensor and 3-axis gimbal stabilization make it a standout in its category, delivering professional-quality footage in a pocket-sized package.Now, let’s talk about who this little powerhouse is perfect for:

• If you’re a food vlogger who wants to capture mouthwatering shots without drawing attention to yourself in restaurants, this is your new best friend. No more awkward stares from other diners!
• Travelers and hikers, rejoice! This is for you if you want to capture stunning videos without lugging around a ton of gear. Your back will thank you on those long trails.
• Content creators looking for a versatile B-roll camera that won’t weigh you down? Yep, this one’s for you too.
• If you’re all about that stealth mode, capturing candid moments without screaming “I’m filming here!” – the Osmo Pocket 3 has got your back.

On the flip side, this probably isn’t your jam if:

• You’re planning on shooting underwater or in extreme weather conditions. Remember, it’s not waterproof, folks!
• You’re after that ultra-wide landscape shot where everything from your toes to the distant mountains is in perfect focus. The Osmo Pocket 3 might struggle a bit there.
• You need professional-grade audio without external gear. The built-in mic is good, but it has its limits.

Is it worth the upgrade from previous models? If image quality and stabilization are top priorities for you, then heck yes. The improvements in these areas are significant and noticeable.

So, what do you think? Are you ready to pocket some power with the DJI Osmo Pocket 3? Whether you’re a stealthy food vlogger, an adventure-seeking traveler, or just someone who wants pro-quality videos without the pro-sized gear, this little camera might just be your new favorite toy. Let me know in the comments below, and as always, happy shooting!