DJI Launches Osmo Pocket 4 With Major Upgrades

DJI has officially launched the Osmo Pocket 4, the successor to its popular Pocket 3 vlogging camera, promising a series of notable upgrades aimed at enhancing the user experience for content creators and vloggers alike. The new model is positioned as a more polished alternative to its predecessor, which has been a best-seller in the compact camera market.

The Osmo Pocket 4 is priced at £429 (approximately $530) for the Standard Combo and £549 (around $670) for the Creator Combo, which includes additional accessories like a battery handle, wireless microphone, and a magnetic fill light. This pricing reflects the enhanced capabilities and features that the new model brings to the table.

One of the standout features of the Pocket 4 is its video quality. Like the Pocket 3, it shoots in 4K, but it now sports a new 1-inch sensor that optimizes video output with 14 stops of dynamic range, which can be expanded by an additional 2 stops in low light mode. This means that users can expect greater detail and flexibility when shooting in challenging lighting conditions. The camera also supports 10-bit color depth and a revised D-Log color profile, providing filmmakers with more options for color grading in post-production.

In terms of slow-motion capabilities, the Pocket 4 significantly outperforms its predecessor. It now offers 240 frames per second (fps) recording at both 4K and 1080p, doubling the Pocket 3's maximum of 120fps. This enhancement allows for smoother and more dramatic slow-motion playback, which is particularly useful for action or sports footage.

Subject tracking has also seen a major upgrade with the introduction of ActiveTrack 7.0. This new feature enables the camera to keep subjects centered in the frame with impressive accuracy, supporting tracking for people, vehicles, and pets. Unlike the previous model, the Pocket 4's tracking works seamlessly in photo mode and is compatible with the 2x lossless zoom and D-Log profile, making it a versatile tool for various shooting scenarios.

Photography has received a boost as well, with the Pocket 4 increasing photo resolution from 9.4 megapixels in the Pocket 3 to an impressive 37 megapixels, particularly in the SuperPhoto mode. Users can capture high-quality images in both JPEG and RAW formats, with the option to use the 2x lossless zoom in photo mode, a feature that was not available in the earlier model.

In terms of controls, DJI has made several design enhancements to improve usability. The Pocket 4 now features a 5D joystick that allows for more precise control over gimbal movements, and two additional buttons under the screen provide quick access to frequently used settings. These changes aim to streamline the shooting process, making it easier for users to adjust settings on the fly.

Battery life has also been improved, with the Pocket 4 housing a higher-capacity 1,545mAh battery, offering up to 4 hours of runtime when recording in 1080p at 24fps. The charging time has been reduced as well; the camera can achieve a full charge in just 32 minutes using a 65W PD charger. This is a notable improvement over the Pocket 3, which had a smaller 1,300mAh battery.

Another major upgrade is the inclusion of 107GB of built-in storage, a feature absent in the Pocket 3, which relied solely on external microSD cards. This built-in storage allows users to capture hours of 4K video without needing to carry additional memory cards. The Pocket 4 also supports next-gen Wi-Fi 6 and USB 3.1, enabling faster data transfer speeds for more efficient workflows.

Audio capabilities have been enhanced as well. The Pocket 4 supports 4-channel audio recording, spatial audio, and audio zoom, which dynamically adjusts sound capture based on the camera's zoom level. This advancement allows for greater flexibility and clarity in audio recording, particularly in complex environments.

Both the Osmo Pocket 4 and Pocket 3 feature 3-axis stabilization to deliver smooth footage during handheld shooting. This is especially beneficial for capturing dynamic scenes without the shake that often comes with handheld filming. The Pocket 4, with its ActiveTrack 7.0, makes it easier to capture cinematic shots with minimal effort.

For creative users, the Pocket 4 introduces several new tools including slow shutter video capabilities and a selection of film tones that can give videos a cinematic feel. These features are complemented by the option for in-camera beautification adjustments, allowing users to refine their portraits directly on the device.

In comparison, the Osmo Pocket 3 remains a solid choice for those who may not require the advanced features of the Pocket 4. It is positioned as a more affordable option, catering to casual users who still want reliable performance and core features for everyday content creation.

In sum, the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 is a substantial upgrade over the Pocket 3, featuring enhanced image quality, improved tracking, and a wealth of new creative tools that make it an appealing choice for serious content creators. The advancements in audio, workflow efficiency, and battery life make it a versatile option for those looking to produce high-quality video content.

As the demand for compact, high-performance vlogging cameras continues to rise, the Osmo Pocket 4 is set to attract both seasoned videographers and newcomers alike. Its release is expected to bolster DJI's presence in the competitive compact camera market, following the success of its predecessor.

The Osmo Pocket 4 is now available for purchase, with the Standard Combo and Creator Combo options offering varying accessories to suit different user needs. With its blend of portability and professional-grade features, the Pocket 4 could very well become a go-to choice for aspiring and established content creators.