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  • Writer's picturePieta Van Huyssteen

DJI Osmo Pocket 3: A Review of the Ultimate Vlogging Camera

Updated: Dec 21, 2023

Are you looking for a compact, capable, and powerful camera that can help you create stunning vlogs and videos? If so, you might want to check out the DJI Osmo Pocket 3, the latest handheld gimbal camera from the leading drone maker.

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is a vlogging camera that combines a large 1-inch sensor, a 20mm wide-angle lens, and a 3-axis gimbal stabilization system to deliver smooth and cinematic footage in 4K resolution. It also has a 2-inch rotatable touchscreen, a built-in wireless mic support, and a portrait mode that lets you record videos in vertical orientation for social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

In this review, I will share with you my experience with the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and show you why it might be the only vlogging camera you need.



Features

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has a lot of features that make it a versatile and powerful camera for vlogging and video creation. Here are some of the main features that I liked:


1-inch sensor 

The Osmo Pocket 3 has a 1-inch CMOS sensor that captures more light and details than the previous models. This results in better image quality, especially in low-light situations. The sensor also supports 10-bit color depth and a log profile, which gives you more flexibility and control in post-processing.


20mm lens 

The Osmo Pocket 3 has a 20mm equivalent focal length, which is wider than the 26mm of the Pocket 2. This gives you a wider field of view and a more immersive perspective. The lens also has a fast f/2.8 aperture, which helps you achieve a shallow depth of field and a nice bokeh effect.


3-axis gimbal

The Osmo Pocket 3 has a 3-axis mechanical gimbal that stabilizes the camera and eliminates any unwanted shakes or jitters. The gimbal also supports various modes, such as follow, tilt lock, FPV, and portrait, to suit different shooting scenarios and styles. The gimbal also has a joystick that lets you control the camera movement manually.


2-inch touchscreen 

The Osmo Pocket 3 has a 2-inch touchscreen that lets you see what you are filming and access the settings and menus. The touchscreen is responsive and bright, and can rotate 90 degrees to switch between landscape and portrait modes. The touchscreen also supports gestures, such as swiping and tapping, to navigate and adjust the camera settings.


Wireless mic support 

The Osmo Pocket 3 has a built-in wireless mic receiver that lets you connect a compatible wireless mic, such as the DJI Mic 2, to the camera. This allows you to record high-quality audio without any wires or cables. The camera also has a 3.5mm audio jack that lets you connect an external mic or headphones.


Portrait mode 

The Osmo Pocket 3 has a portrait mode that lets you record videos in vertical orientation, which is ideal for social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram. The portrait mode also supports face detection and dynamic framing, which automatically tracks your face and keeps it in the center of the frame. The portrait mode also works with the gimbal and the wireless mic, so you can vlog in portrait mode with ease.

A still picture taken with the DJI Osmo Pocket 3
Still Image with DJI Osmo Pocket 3

Check out our post about the Top 10 Budget DSLR Cameras here.


Benefits

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has a lot of benefits that make it a great camera for vlogging and video creation.

Compact and portable

The Osmo Pocket 3 is very compact and portable, measuring only 5.6 by 1.6 by 1.2 inches and weighing only 6.4 ounces. It fits easily in your pocket, bag, or backpack, and you can take it anywhere you go. It also comes with a protective case that protects the camera and the gimbal from dust and scratches.


Easy and fun to use

The Osmo Pocket 3 is very easy and fun to use, thanks to its intuitive touchscreen and gimbal. You can start recording with just one button, and switch between different modes and settings with simple gestures. You can also use the DJI Mimo app on your smartphone to control the camera remotely, edit your videos, and share them online.


Creative and versatile

The Osmo Pocket 3 is very creative and versatile, thanks to its large sensor, wide lens, and gimbal. You can capture stunning videos in 4K resolution, up to 120 fps, with smooth and cinematic motion. You can also take amazing photos in 12 MP, with HDR and panorama modes. You can also use the camera for various purposes, such as vlogging, travel, sports, timelapse, motionlapse, and more.



Drawbacks

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is not perfect, and it has some drawbacks that you should be aware of.


Not rugged or weatherproof 

The Osmo Pocket 3 is not rugged or weatherproof, and it is not designed to withstand water, dust, or shock. You should be careful when using the camera in harsh environments, and avoid exposing it to rain, snow, or sand. You should also avoid dropping or bumping the camera, as it might damage the sensor, lens, or gimbal.


Usability of touchscreen needs improvement

The Osmo Pocket 3 has a touchscreen that lets you access the settings and menus, but the usability of the touchscreen needs improvement. The touchscreen is small and cramped, and sometimes it is hard to see or tap the icons and options. The touchscreen also lacks some features, such as a histogram, a zebra pattern, and a focus peaking, which would help you adjust the exposure and focus more accurately.


Verdict

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 stands out as an impressive camera, delivering exceptional video quality and stunning slow-motion scenes. Its all-new 1-inch sensor enhances image quality in low light, while features like portrait filming, timelapse, and motion lapse contribute to its versatility and functionality. Despite the premium price, the Pocket 3 empowers users to create compelling content. Ideal for vlogging and video creation, this compact and portable camera offers a seamless experience capturing smooth, cinematic footage in 4K resolution. While it has drawbacks, such as lacking ruggedness and weatherproofing, a higher cost than the Pocket 2, and a touchscreen that could use improvement, these are not deal-breakers for those seeking a versatile and powerful camera.

DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Standing on its tripod legs.
Upright Stands DJI Osmo Pocket 3

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