DJI consistently astonishes us with its line of portable cameras. From the Action 2 and Action 3 to the latest Action 4, the brand demonstrates its ability to create compact cameras that are highly portable and excel in capturing images in low-light conditions – a challenge for many manufacturers. With the enhanced Pocket 2 featuring the new 1-inch CMOS sensor, DJI appears to have found a solution to address this longstanding challenge.

4K video footage recording Chinatown , Clementi Town Centre

Price : S$939

The image sensor has received an upgrade to a 1-inch CMOS, offering enhanced low-light performance and potentially reduced noise with an advanced algorithm. This improvement facilitates brighter night videos. The focus system now employs full-pixel phase detection autofocus (pdaf), a notable advancement from the hybrid focusing found in the Pocket 2.

Photo shot using DJI OSMO Pocket 3

Another notable enhancement is the inclusion of a 2-inch OLED screen. This screen is rotatable, allowing for both horizontal and vertical orientations, providing a clear view of your recording.

Vertical shooting is supported, with a switch that seamlessly transitions between horizontal and vertical shooting modes. The three-axis gimbal mechanical stabilization ensures stable footage, even in low-light conditions. The active tracking feature enables precise tracking of a subject, ensuring it remains in the frame.

Fast charging is a notable addition, capable of charging up to 80% in just 16 minutes, a significant improvement from the 48 minutes required by the Pocket. The extended operating time is impressive, offering up to 166 minutes of recording at 1080p, 24 frames per second, a 140-minute improvement over the Pocket 2.

With the 1-inch CMOS sensor, the camera supports 4K recording at 120 frames per second for smooth slow-motion footage. Additionally, the inclusion of 10-bit D log M recording allows for capturing the full range of natural colors in exquisite detail.

Photo shot taken using DJI OSMO Pocket 3

In the next page, we run through the package, the settings, DJI mic 2 audio quality and 4K footage.

[nextpage title=”Video Review”]

Price : S$939

4K video footage recording Chinatown , Clementi Town Centre

In the video review, we will cover the DJI OSMO Pocket 3 package, setup, photo shots taken and video footage. We will also test the DJI Mic 2 which comes as part of the Creator Combo pack.

[nextpage title=”Conclusion”]

Price : S$939

4K video footage recording Chinatown , Clementi Town Centre

This compact camera easily fits in your hand, making it convenient for impromptu shooting. Its standout feature is the ability to capture sharp 4K 50 videos, outperforming frame rate limitations associated with smartphone.

The built-in stabilizer ensures smooth footage, even during activities like running. Operating the camera is straightforward – power it up, adjust the orientation, and start shooting. It also allows for still photos with a two-times zoom.

Enhancing its versatility are the appealing slow-motion and time-lapse features, providing creative options for video production.

However, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 comes at a relatively higher price, particularly with the Creator combo. The sensor can’t be detached like what you you could do with the Action series.

During our test, we noticed that sensor seems to favour an elevated angle to the horizon. Every now and then, we will have to double click the joystick to move the sensor back to horizon level.

The other thing we noticed is that the microphone gain seems to be a bit low. Recording will need adjustments to increase by 10 points in VSDC editor. The DJI Mic 2 Noise Reduction is only available when paired with a DJI Received. When paired with a smartphone via bluetooth, this function is disabled. Furthermore, not all smartphones will work with DJI MIC 2 in bluetooth mode.

Its non-waterproof design limits also its suitability for certain environments. Additionally, the gimbal appears somewhat delicate, requiring careful handling to prevent accidental drops.

In Conclusion, I think DJI has got the formula right but it just need some fine tuning.

By Paul S