Here is a short and clear comparison review between GoPro Hero 12 and DJI Osmo Action 4 that will help you make a high-quality decision on which action camera is best for you. Look for upcoming deals on Amazon Prime Day for the best offer!

Image Quality, Colors, Low Light performance

GoPro 12:

• Image Quality: Offers 5.3K video at 60fps and 4K video at 120fps. The images are sharp with excellent detail.
• Colors: GoPro’s color science is vibrant and punchy, often preferred for action footage.
• Low-Light Performance: This model has improved over previous models but still struggles slightly in very low-light conditions and has some noise.

DJI Action 4:

• Image Quality: Features 4K video at 120fps and 1080p at 240fps. The quality is impressive, though slightly less sharp than the GoPro at higher resolutions.
• Colors: More natural and accurate color reproduction might appeal to users seeking true-to-life colors.
• Low-Light Performance: It performs well in low light, better than previous Osmo models, with reduced noise and clearer details.

GoPro tends to have warmer colors and is preferred for its color.

DJI has better white balance and is more accurate to real life.

DJI’s image appears sharper, but some reviewers prefer GoPro’s sharpness straight from the camera.

DJI has a slightly bigger sensor, giving it an edge in low light conditions over the GoPro.

DJI has better video recording quality (2736 x 120 fps vs 2880 x 60 fps) and higher recording bitrate (130 Mbps vs 120 Mbps).

Audio Quality

GoPro 12:

• Audio Quality: Decent built-in microphones that capture clear audio but may pick up wind noise.
• External Mic Support: External microphones are supported for improved audio quality.

DJI Action 4:

• Audio Quality: Similar built-in microphone performance, capturing clear audio with occasional wind interference.
• External Mic Support: External microphones are also supported for better audio capture.

DJI allows direct microphone input, providing clearer audio compared to the GoPro, which requires an additional medium mod for better audio. 

Stabilization

GoPro 12:

• Stabilization: HyperSmooth 4.0 provides excellent stabilization, making it one of the best action cameras on the market.

DJI Action 4:

• Stabilization: RockSteady 3.0 offers robust stabilization close to GoPro’s HyperSmooth, ensuring smooth footage even in dynamic movements.

Both cameras offer excellent stabilization, making it hard to determine a clear winner. 

Field of View

GoPro 12:

• Field of View: Wide view options, including SuperView, provide a very immersive perspective.

DJI Action 4:

• Field of View: It is slightly narrower than GoPro but still offers a wide, immersive perspective suitable for most action shots.

DJI provides a more natural wide-angle view, whereas GoPro appears a bit squished. 

Battery Life and Charging

GoPro 12:

• Battery: Improved battery life, lasting up to 2 hours depending on settings and usage.

DJI Action 4:

• Battery: Comparable battery life to the GoPro, with efficient power management for extended recording sessions.

Both cameras have similar battery life, but DJI offers a portable charging case that can hold up to three batteries, adding convenience.

Build Quality

GoPro 12:

• Build Quality: Rugged and durable, waterproof up to 33 feet (10 meters) without a case.

DJI Action 4:

• Build Quality: Equally rugged and durable, waterproof up to 36 feet (11 meters) without a case.

GoPro Hero 12 is noted for its solid build and survivability. Its lens is removable for easy replacement if damaged. However, it’s heavier and larger than the DJI Osmo Action 4.

DJI Osmo Action 4 is smaller and almost 10 grams lighter. Unlike some previous GoPro models, it has not experienced overheating or glitches.

Some reviewers experienced a build quality issue with the DJI’s door mechanism.

DJI has a 10 °C higher maximum operating temperature (45 °C vs 35 °C).

Ease of Use

GoPro Hero 12:

• Ease of Use: Intuitive interface with a responsive touchscreen and voice control options.

DJI Action 4:

• Ease of Use: User-friendly interface with a similar responsive touchscreen and efficient voice commands.

DJI’s magnetic quick-release plate is highlighted as a significant ease-of-use feature.

The GoPro has a sensitive record button that can lead to accidental recording and battery drain. Its battery door and SD card slot are less accessible, especially in cold conditions.

The DJI has an easier-to-open door for the battery and SD card and a separate door for the USB-C charging port, allowing for accessory connection without exposing the battery and SD card. 

Mounting and Accessories

GoPro 12:

• Mounting and Accessories: An extensive range of accessories and mounts are available, making it versatile for various activities.

DJI Action 4:

• Mounting and Accessories: A good range of accessories, though not as extensive as GoPro’s ecosystem.

GoPro uses standard mounts and offers an upgrade to magnetic mounts via aftermarket products. The Lens Mod 2.0 provides a wide field of view and features like Horizon Lock.

DJI comes with magnetic mounts, making it easy to switch between mounting positions. It also offers a mic adapter that securely fits into the door hardware, improving the connection for external mics.

DJI comes with an adventure combo with extra batteries and a charger storage box.

Price

GoPro 12:

• Price: Typically higher than DJI, reflecting its premium positioning and features.

DJI Action 4:

• Price: Slightly more affordable, offering great value for its features and performance.

Both cameras are priced at $299, but potential deals may affect the cost during the shopping season.

Overall Recommendation

GoPro Hero 12 is recommended for users seeking the highest resolution and robust ecosystem of accessories, especially if they prioritize sharp image quality and vibrant colors. The GoPro Hero 12, with the Lens Mod 2.0, captures wider angles, enhancing the sense of speed in footage. However, it’s more niche and less versatile compared to the DJI.

DJI Osmo Action 4 is ideal for those looking for a more natural color profile, excellent stabilization, and a slightly more budget-friendly option while still getting top-tier performance.

The choice between the two cameras depends on whether the user values ease of use (DJI) or the best image quality without color grading (GoPro).

DJI Osmo Action 4 is recommended for its ease of use, especially for vertical footage, and its versatility as a vlogging camera due to its easy mic adapter and lighter build.

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