DJI Osmo Action 3 vs GoPro Hero 11 Black: What’s the difference?

Lights… Action Camera

Lianne Dhalla 15 Sep 2022 11:50 PM

The only thing better than a new action camera is well, two new action cameras. DJI and GoPro have spoiled us with choices, in the form of the DJI Osmo Action 3 and the GoPro Hero 11 Black. These nearly identical little pieces of gear are extremely important tools when it comes to capturing and giving your memories a tangible form (because sometimes, adventures can be so outrageous that no one would believe you without the proof). 

Despite their similar exteriors, they do offer a few differences in terms of features and prices. So what’s more suitable for you? Let’s dive into the specs and find out…

Displays and Design

Both devices are built in a similar manner in terms of shape and dimensions. The DJI has a 70.5x44.2x32.8mm build while the GoPro offers a marginally bigger 71.8x50.8x33.6mm frame. The GoPro is larger but it weighs about 20g less at just 127g compared to the 145g DJI.

There are front and rear displays on both devices. The front is standard at 1.4 inches on both, while at the rear the GoPro is 0.02 inches larger than the DJI which is at 2.27 inches.

Sensors and Videography

When it comes to the substance of these cameras, there are quite a few differences. The DJI Osmo Action 3 sports a 12MP 1/1.7in sensor with a 155° ultra-wide lens (f/2.8), while the GoPro Hero 11 Black has a bigger 27MP 1/1.9in sensor with the same 155° FOV as the DJI.

GoPro is also giving the option to go vertical this time. The HyperView is an 8:7 aspect ratio that is GoPro’s tallest FOV in a Hero camera ever. Specifically, the vertical FOV is more than 13% taller compared to the Hero 10 Black.

The videos are recorded and stored on a microSD card at up to 130Mbps on the DJI while the GoPro does the same at about 120Mbps. The video resolutions themselves vary significantly with the GoPro offering a maximum of 5.3K resolution at 60fps, while the DJI offers just 4K at 120fps (which is also available on the Hero 11).

Other features offered by both include slow motion (8x at FHD 1080p) and digital zoom up to 4x. The GoPro does also support 10-bit video mode which is absent in the DJI camera.

Stabilisation

For Stabilisation, both cameras are simply updating their older stabilisation tech. The GoPro has the HyperSmooth 5.0 with Horizon lock, while DJI uses the RockSteady 3.0 electronic image stabilization in addition to HorizonSteady that keeps the horizon level no matter how you choose to spin the camera (at 2.7K/60fps) and a new HorizonBalancing that correcting tilt up to 45° while working up to 4K/60fps as a middle ground. 

Both these cameras do pretty much the same things with their features but only when we test them, we’ll know which one is better.

Battery

There isn’t any point in having a fancy expensive camera if it doesn't have good battery life. Thankfully neither is lacking in this department. The DJI has a 1770mAh battery giving you about 160 minutes of recording time, while the GoPro packs in a 1720mAh Enduro battery with around 137 minutes of use and claims 13% faster charging. The DJI can recharge 0-80% in 18 minutes too! Both use USB-C chargers.

Connectivity and Durability

Connectivity is pretty even with both offering WiFi and Bluetooth support. Where it gets really interesting is the durability aspect. The GoPro claims to improve cold-weather performance in temperatures down to 14°F (-10°C), but on the other hand, the DJI offers performance in temperatures ranging from -20° to 45°C (with the included battery). For depth underwater, the DJI beats out the GoPro offering 16m compared to 10m.

Audio and Accessories

The DJI offer three microphones aboard with the option of plugging in external mics using the USB Type-C to 3.5mm adapter. The GoPro has 3 mics too, as well as a speaker aboard.

The Hero 11 Black comes with accessories like the Volta extended battery grip, Media Mod with a directional mic, and the Light Mod in a single package, while the DJI offers a dedicated suite of accessories including a Waterproof Case, Extreme Battery, multifunctional Battery Case, an Adhesive Base Kit all kinds of mounts and so on. When it comes to accessorising though, it really depends on your needs and budget.

Price

The DJI Osmo Action 3 is priced starting at $330 (approximately ₹26,000). While the GoPro Hero 11 Black is priced starting at ₹51,500 (prices increasing with additional gear.) So while one may be offering certain plus points, the other does offer the big plus point of a cheaper price point. So now, it is your call as to what you need in your life.