DJI OM5

The biggest difference compared to the previous models is the telescopic extension arm built-into the grip handle of the OM5. It works like a selfie stick with a bit of articulation and can add the much needed “breathing space” around your mug while doing handheld vlogs or be helpful in getting a clear shot of the action from behind a big crowd. 

 

On the grip itself, you get the usual toggle, multipurpose and Rec button up front, while a zoom toggle and power button are located on the left and a trigger around the back to lock the gimbal in Follow or Tilt mode. You can also customise the buttons via the Mimo app that has been updated too with features baked right into it to help you shoot better short-form videos by providing guided shot sequences and visual aids. 

 

But undoubtedly, if you’re coming in hot from the OM4, the biggest difference you’ll find is the dramatically reduced battery life, due to the smaller physical battery on the OM5. Fortunately, the weight and dimensions both have taken a tumble so you can now actually carry one around in your pocket all the time. Just don’t bother asking awkward questions. 

Of course you want to know how well it performs its primary function of stabilising video. Short answer is, brilliantly via the native iPhone camera app. Its 3-axis stabilisation along with faster motor movement and improved algorithms is tangible especially when using the Cinematic mode on iPhone 13 Pro Max, where along with the bokeh, it also adds the horizon levelling and a range of movement that just isn’t possible with your bare hands. Not without shake at least! 

Using the DJI Mimo app adds a whole new layer of functionality as expected, with all the physical buttons on the gimbal reacting the way they should, which isn’t the case while using the native camera app. But during pans, the video is noticeably smoother using the iPhone’s native camera app so if you want the absolute best performance, stick with that. If you are the experimental kind, features like Dynamic zoom, Shot Guide and multi-capture panorama add a fun quotient to your videos and stills. There are innumerable reasons why you would want yourself thrice in the same picture!

 

The Android experience is a bit watered down, starting with even the magnetic clamp that seems to fit iPhones perfectly without accidentally pressing any of the side buttons. But with the myriad of Android hardware designs, good luck not triggering off accidental buttons while finding the perfect grip for your smartphone. Within the Mimo app too, there are limitations in terms of video resolutions on offer (No slow-mo or Moonlapse modes) and even issues with a stable Bluetooth connection. 

 

What’s common between the iOS and Android experience though is the movement range, which seems a bit limited if you want to get really crazy with your wide angle camera. It does show up the gimbal arm in certain instances but master the different modes of operation between FPV, tilt, follow or lock and you should be out of the woods. What leaves you wanting for better performance is the stitching from the different panorama modes and while the OM5 does its own automated sequence, the result is far from perfect. The iPhone’s native Panoramic mode does a much more believable job even when it’s hand held. 

 

Hold the OM5 steady though and use that toggle to pan and you get the smoothest pans without judder or shake, while keeping the horizon level, which is something no human can manage with bare hands, so it does have its advantages. Again, it’s only via the Mimo app that you will be able to access zoom from the side-mounted toggle and it offers a range from 0.5x ultra-wide up to 8x digital zoom. The mode button too switches between video and photo, but only if you choose to use the app and there is no swift way of going back and forth between the native camera apps and Mimo, except the old-fashioned way. 

 

The magnetic clamps help centre your phone automatically and the supplied tripod comes in handy for static vlogs too. Active Track 4.0 ensures that yours or the subject's face is always followed around, only losing focus during extreme situations when you duck abruptly or say, hit a ledge while skateboarding. And with gesture based controls, the OM5 makes for a great solo-trip accessory. 

 

Battery life is good for about 6-7hrs of use, depending on how aggressive you are with your movements and how hard you work the motors. Although on paper it does look like a step down from the OM4, in most everyday use case scenarios, it should serve just fine for a day's worth of shooting.