DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Review: 5 Reasons Vloggers Love It

Spread the love

Remember the first time you tried to film something important on your phone, only to end up with footage so shaky it looked like you recorded it during an earthquake? Yeah, me too. That frustration is exactly why I got so excited when DJI announced their latest pocket gimbal camera—the Osmo Pocket 4.

As someone who’s been through the entire Osmo Pocket evolution (yes, I’m that person who can’t resist new tech), I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this new iteration. And boy, was it worth the wait!

What’s New in the Osmo Pocket 4?

Let’s cut straight to the chase—what makes the Pocket 4 different from its predecessors? A whole lot, actually.

Upgraded Sensor and Image Quality

The most significant upgrade has to be the sensor. DJI finally listened to what we’ve all been begging for: a 1-inch sensor in a pocket-sized camera. This larger sensor is a game-changer for low-light shooting and gives you that beautiful depth of field that makes footage look cinematic rather than like a home video.

The resolution has been bumped up too, offering 4K video at 60fps with impressive dynamic range. Colors pop without looking oversaturated, and the detail retention is remarkable for something that literally fits in your pocket.

Ever wondered why your night videos always look like they were shot through a potato? The larger sensor solves that problem with significantly improved low-light performance. I tested it during a sunset beach walk, and the footage maintained clarity well past golden hour when most smartphones would’ve started showing noise.

Enhanced Stabilization

DJI’s gimbal technology was already impressive, but they’ve somehow made it even better with the Pocket 4:

3-axis mechanical stabilization with improved motors
Advanced algorithm for smoother motion detection
HyperSmooth mode for extreme activities
Horizon leveling that works even during 360° rotation

The difference is immediately noticeable. I ran down a flight of stairs while filming, and the footage looked like I was floating on a cloud. No joke—it’s that good.

Expanded Audio Capabilities

Audio quality has taken a massive leap forward with:

Directional audio with noise cancellation
Wind noise reduction that actually works
External mic support via USB-C
Spatial audio recording options

As someone who’s constantly annoyed by wind ruining otherwise perfect footage, this improvement alone might be worth the upgrade.

Design and Build Quality

Pocketable Form Factor

The Osmo Pocket 4 stays true to its name—it’s still incredibly portable. At just under 5 inches tall and weighing approximately 130 grams, it’s barely noticeable in your pocket. DJI has maintained that perfect balance between size and functionality.

The build quality feels more premium than previous models. The matte finish not only looks sleek but also provides better grip. The joystick and buttons have a satisfying click to them, and overall, it feels like it could survive an accidental drop (though I wouldn’t recommend testing that theory).

Improved Display

The touchscreen display is now larger at 2 inches and much more responsive. It’s bright enough to use in direct sunlight—a problem that plagued earlier models. The interface has also been simplified, making it more intuitive even for beginners.

Is it as good as your smartphone’s display? No, but it doesn’t need to be. It’s functional and gets the job done without unnecessary flourishes.

Battery Life and Storage

Here’s where things get interesting. DJI claims the Pocket 4 can record continuously for up to 140 minutes on a single charge. In my testing, I got about 120 minutes of mixed use, which is still impressive for something this size.

The battery is now removable—hallelujah! This means you can carry spares for longer shooting days, a feature professionals will definitely appreciate.

Storage-wise, you have options:

Built-in 64GB memory
MicroSD card slot supporting up to 1TB
Direct storage to connected smartphones

This flexibility means you’ll rarely find yourself running out of space even when shooting in 4K.

Shooting Modes and Features

ActiveTrack 5.0

The Pocket 4’s subject tracking is almost scarily good. Their latest ActiveTrack technology can not only follow moving subjects but predict their movement patterns, keeping them perfectly framed even when they temporarily disappear behind objects.

I tested this with my hyperactive dog at the park, and the camera managed to keep him in frame despite his random zoomies and squirrel-chasing diversions. That’s tech that actually makes a difference in real-world use.

FocusTrack

This new feature is a videographer’s dream. FocusTrack allows you to maintain focus on a specific subject while creating dramatic focus transitions—all automatically. The result looks like you have a professional focus puller working with you.

Timelapse and Hyperlapse

The timelapse capabilities have been significantly enhanced:

Motion timelapses with programmable movement paths
Hyperlapse with stabilization
Automatic interval suggestions based on your scene
Built-in ND filter effect for smoother motion blur

The hyperlapse feature deserves special mention. I created a hyperlapse walking through downtown, and the results were broadcast-quality—smooth transitions between steps with none of that jerky movement you typically see in amateur hyperlapses.

Slow Motion

With the ability to shoot at up to 240fps in 1080p, the slow-motion capabilities are impressive for a pocket camera. The results aren’t quite Sony RX100-level, but they’re more than adequate for social media and most professional applications.

Connectivity and Ecosystem

DJI Mimo App Integration

The DJI Mimo app has matured significantly and now offers:

Advanced editing tools
Shot templates for beginners
Direct social media sharing
Firmware update management

The connection between the Pocket 4 and smartphones is much more stable than with previous generations. Bluetooth connectivity maintains a consistent link, while Wi-Fi provides faster transfer speeds when needed.

Accessories Ecosystem

DJI has expanded the accessory ecosystem for the Pocket 4, offering:

Wide-angle lens attachment
Wireless microphone compatibility
Extended grip with built-in battery
Waterproof case for underwater shooting
Mini tripod with remote control capabilities

The accessories aren’t cheap, but they significantly expand what this little camera can do.

Real-World Performance

Vlogging

For vloggers, the Pocket 4 is nearly perfect. The face tracking keeps you in focus even as you move, and the gimbal ensures smooth footage regardless of how you walk. The improved audio means you don’t necessarily need an external mic for casual vlogging.

Face tracking works exceptionally well in various lighting conditions. Even when moving from bright sunlight into shadows, it maintains focus without that annoying hunting effect that plagues many autofocus systems.

Travel Photography and Videography

As a travel camera, the Osmo Pocket 4 excels for several reasons:

It’s unobtrusive and doesn’t scream “tourist with expensive gear”
The stabilization means you can leave your tripod at home for most shots
Battery life covers a full day of intermittent shooting
All-in-one solution reduces the need to carry multiple devices

When I took it to a crowded market, I appreciated being able to capture moments without drawing attention. The small form factor also means you’re more likely to actually carry it with you, unlike bulkier camera setups that often get left at the hotel.

Action and Sports

While not waterproof without a case, the Pocket 4 handles action scenarios surprisingly well. The stabilization keeps up with moderate movement, though extreme sports enthusiasts might still prefer a dedicated action camera like the GoPro.

That said, for activities like hiking, biking, or skiing, the Pocket 4 provides excellent results—especially with the new HyperSmooth mode engaged.

Price and Value Proposition

At around $399 for the base model, the Osmo Pocket 4 isn’t cheap. The Creator Combo, which includes additional accessories, pushes that price closer to $519. Is it worth it?

IMO, it depends on your needs. If you’re looking for a compact, all-in-one solution that offers professional-level stabilization and excellent image quality, then yes—it’s worth every penny. Especially when you consider that comparable setups (smartphone gimbal + external mic + accessories) would cost more and be less integrated.

For casual users who just want better vacation videos, this might be overkill. But for content creators, vloggers, and enthusiasts who appreciate quality, the Pocket 4 represents solid value.

How It Compares

Osmo Pocket 4 vs. Smartphone

Many will wonder: “Why not just use my smartphone with a gimbal?” Fair question! Here’s why the Pocket 4 still makes sense:

Purpose-built for video with superior stabilization
Better low-light performance than most smartphone cameras
Dedicated controls for filming
No interruptions from calls or notifications
Less battery drain on your primary device

Your smartphone can certainly take great video, but the integrated experience and purpose-built nature of the Pocket 4 make for a more seamless shooting experience.

Osmo Pocket 4 vs. GoPro

Compared to the latest GoPro models:

The Pocket 4 offers superior stabilization in most scenarios
GoPro has better waterproofing without additional cases
The Pocket 4 has better low-light performance
GoPro handles extreme action better
The Pocket 4 offers more creative control

They’re different tools for different jobs. If you’re primarily filming extreme sports, the GoPro might be better. For everything else, the Pocket 4 offers more flexibility.

Osmo Pocket 4 vs. Mirrorless Cameras

Obviously, a dedicated mirrorless camera will outperform the Pocket 4 in terms of image quality and versatility. However:

The Pocket 4 is infinitely more portable
The all-in-one design means you’re always ready to shoot
No lens changing or additional stabilization equipment needed
Much lower learning curve

The best camera is the one you have with you, right? The Pocket 4 is small enough that you’ll actually carry it everywhere.

Who Should Buy the Osmo Pocket 4?

The Pocket 4 is ideal for:

Vloggers who need reliable, high-quality footage on the go
Travel enthusiasts who want better videos without carrying bulky equipment
Content creators looking for a reliable B-camera
Anyone who wants cinematic stabilization without the learning curve of professional equipment

It’s less suitable for:

Professional photographers who prioritize still image quality
Extreme sports enthusiasts who need maximum durability
Budget-conscious consumers who primarily shoot in ideal lighting conditions

Tips and Tricks for Maximizing Your Osmo Pocket 4

After spending a few weeks with the Pocket 4, I’ve discovered some helpful techniques:

Get the Most from Your Battery

Lower the screen brightness when shooting outdoors
Use Standby mode between shots instead of powering off completely
Carry a small power bank for extended shooting days
Consider purchasing the extended grip accessory which contains an additional battery

Optimize Your Audio

When recording in windy conditions, use the “Wind Reduction” audio setting
Position yourself within 5 feet of the camera for optimal voice pickup
For professional audio, connect a wireless lavalier mic via USB-C
When filming in noisy environments, enable the directional audio mode to focus on your subject

Master the Gimbal

Use FPV mode for more dynamic, action-style footage
Learn the gesture controls for hands-free operation
Practice smooth joystick movements for cinematic pans
Use the timelapse motion paths for stunning establishing shots

The Bottom Line

The DJI Osmo Pocket 4 represents a significant evolution in pocket-sized camera technology. It’s not perfect—no product is—but it excels in its intended purpose: providing high-quality, stabilized video in an incredibly portable package.

For content creators, travel enthusiasts, and vloggers, it’s a tool that removes technical barriers and lets you focus on creativity. The improvements in image quality, stabilization, and user experience make it a worthy upgrade even for owners of previous models.

Is it going to replace your professional camera setup? No. But it might just become the camera you use most often because it’s always with you, ready to capture life’s moments with remarkable quality.

Have you been eyeing the Osmo Pocket 4, or do you have experience with previous models? I’d love to hear your thoughts! In the meantime, I’ll be out shooting more test footage and pushing this little camera to its limits. 🙂