The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is the latest iteration of DJI’s popular ultra-compact camera series. It builds upon the success of its predecessors by offering a larger sensor, improved video capabilities, and a more versatile design. But is it the ultimate pocket vlogging camera? Let’s dive in and find out.
I have been using a GoPro for most of my travel videos and my iPhone for cinematic moments. The problem with this setup is iPhones are notorious for having short battery life, especially when used for video recording. This can be a major hassle if you’re out and about for long periods of time. Using an iPhone could be less convenient to handle as the are larger and bulkier. You could also run out of storage for 4K videos.
I wanted to get better cinematic shots and record low light footage at night. The Osmo Pocket 3 was the device I was looking for.
Small But Mighty:
First things first, the Pocket 3 is incredibly small and lightweight. It easily fits in your pocket or purse, making it ideal for travel, adventure, and everyday capture. Despite its size, it feels surprisingly sturdy and well-built. The new touchscreen display is larger and brighter than previous models, making it easier to see what you’re shooting, even in bright sunlight.
Image Quality:
The Pocket 3 boasts a significantly larger 1/1.7″ sensor compared to its predecessor, resulting in a noticeable jump in image quality. Photos are sharp, detailed, and offer a wider dynamic range for better handling of highlights and shadows. Video recording is equally impressive, with resolutions up to 4K 120fps and 10-bit color depth for professional-looking footage. The gimbal stabilization is top-notch, keeping your videos smooth and cinematic, even when you’re on the move.
Features for Creators:
The Pocket 3 is packed with features that cater to creators. ActiveTrack 5.0 lets you track subjects with incredible accuracy, perfect for vlogging or filming yourself doing an activity. The new “Story Mode” offers a variety of pre-made templates and music tracks for quick and easy social media content creation. And thanks to the built-in wireless microphone slot and optional DJI Mic 2 system, you can capture high-quality audio to match your stunning visuals.
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Both the iPhone (presumably the recent models like 14 or 15 Pro) and DJI Osmo Pocket 3 are excellent choices for capturing videos and photos on the go, but they cater to different needs and have their own strengths and weaknesses.
Choose the iPhone if: You want a versatile camera with familiar interface and editing tools, prioritize multiple lens options and high-light performance, and value phone integration.
Choose the Osmo Pocket 3 if: You need exceptional video stabilization for action or smooth vlogging, prioritize low-light performance and compact size, and want features like ActiveTrack and “Story Mode”.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and priorities. Consider what type of content you want to capture, how you plan to use the camera, and your budget to make an informed decision.
