The Ultimate Showdown: Dji Osmo Pocket 3 Vs Gopro Hero 12 – Which Action Camera Reigns Supreme?

In the realm of action cameras, two names stand tall: DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and GoPro Hero 12. These compact and versatile devices have captivated adventurers, vloggers, and content creators worldwide. But which one deserves a spot in your gear bag? Let’s dive into a comprehensive comparison to find out.

1. Design and Portability

DJI Osmo Pocket 3: The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 embodies portability. Its sleek, foldable design makes it a pocket-sized companion for your adventures. Weighing a mere 117 grams, it’s incredibly lightweight, allowing you to capture stunning footage without feeling weighed down.

GoPro Hero 12: The GoPro Hero 12, while slightly larger than its predecessor, maintains a compact form factor. It features a rugged design with a waterproof housing, making it ideal for extreme activities. However, its weight of 153 grams may be noticeable during extended use.

2. Image Quality

DJI Osmo Pocket 3: The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 boasts a 1/1.7-inch sensor capable of recording 4K video at 60fps and capturing 12-megapixel still images. Its 3-axis gimbal ensures smooth and stable footage, even in challenging conditions.

GoPro Hero 12: The GoPro Hero 12 takes image quality up a notch with its larger 1/1.9-inch sensor. It delivers stunning 5.3K video at 60fps and captures 23-megapixel stills. The Hero 12 also features GoPro‘s signature HyperSmooth 5.0 technology for unparalleled stabilization.

3. Features and Functionality

DJI Osmo Pocket 3: The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 excels in ease of use. Its intuitive touchscreen interface and dedicated buttons make it a breeze to operate, even for beginners. The Osmo Pocket 3 also offers a range of intelligent features, including ActiveTrack 3.0 for subject tracking, Story Mode for quick editing templates, and Timelapse for capturing stunning sequences.

GoPro Hero 12: The GoPro Hero 12 packs a punch with its impressive array of features. Its front-facing LCD screen allows for easy framing and vlogging. The Hero 12 also introduces Horizon Lock, ensuring your footage remains level, even when the camera is tilted. Additionally, it offers advanced features like TimeWarp 3.0 for hyperlapse videos and Night Lapse for capturing stunning nighttime sequences.

4. Battery Life

DJI Osmo Pocket 3: The DJI Osmo Pocket 3’s battery life is a mixed bag. It provides up to 140 minutes of continuous recording, which may be sufficient for casual users. However, power-hungry features like 4K video and ActiveTrack can drain the battery more quickly.

GoPro Hero 12: The GoPro Hero 12 boasts improved battery life compared to its predecessor. It offers up to 106 minutes of 5.3K video recording and 130 minutes of 4K video recording. Additionally, the Hero 12 supports fast charging, allowing you to get back to capturing your adventures in no time.

5. Accessories and Compatibility

DJI Osmo Pocket 3: The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has a dedicated range of accessories, including a waterproof housing, extension rod, and wireless microphone. These accessories expand the camera’s capabilities, making it suitable for various scenarios. However, they come at an additional cost.

GoPro Hero 12: The GoPro Hero 12 benefits from a vast ecosystem of accessories, including mounts, grips, and lighting solutions. Its compatibility with GoPro’s existing accessories makes it a versatile tool for action sports enthusiasts and content creators.

6. Price and Value

DJI Osmo Pocket 3: The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is priced at $449 for the standard bundle, which includes the camera, charging case, and mini control stick. Additional accessories are sold separately.

GoPro Hero 12: The GoPro Hero 12 comes in three variants: Hero 12 Black, Hero 12 Black Creator Edition, and Hero 12 Black Bones. The Hero 12 Black retails for $499, while the Creator Edition and Bones versions are priced higher due to their included accessories.

7. Which One Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the choice between the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and GoPro Hero 12 depends on your specific needs and preferences. If portability and ease of use are your top priorities, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is an excellent choice. Its compact design, intuitive interface, and intelligent features make it ideal for casual users and vloggers.

If you demand the best possible image quality and advanced features, the GoPro Hero 12 is the way to go. Its larger sensor, 5.3K video recording, and Horizon Lock feature make it a powerhouse for action sports and professional content creation.

The Verdict

Both the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and GoPro Hero 12 are exceptional action cameras that cater to different user groups. The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 shines in portability and user-friendliness, while the GoPro Hero 12 delivers superior image quality and advanced features. Ultimately, consider your shooting style, budget, and desired features to determine which camera best suits your needs.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. Which camera has better low-light performance?

Both cameras offer good low-light performance, but the GoPro Hero 12 has a slight edge due to its larger sensor and improved image processing.

2. Can I use both cameras for underwater shooting?

Yes, both the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 and GoPro Hero 12 are waterproof, allowing you to capture stunning underwater footage. However, you may need to purchase a separate waterproof housing for the Osmo Pocket 3.

3. Which camera is better for action sports?

The GoPro Hero 12 is the better choice for action sports due to its rugged design, superior stabilization, and wide range of mounts and accessories.

4. Can I use the cameras as webcams?

Yes, both cameras can be used as webcams, allowing you to live stream or attend video conferences.

5. Do the cameras support external microphones?

Yes, both cameras have external microphone inputs, enabling you to connect high-quality microphones for improved audio quality.