The DJI Osmo Action 3 Vs the GoPro Hero 11: An Underwater Photographer’s Review

This piece examines the DJI Osmo Action 3 Vs the GoPro Hero 11, two prominent rivals in the action camera market. Both cameras, released in September 2022, are approximately 15 months old as of January 2024. The most recent action cameras are currently available. I have provided a detailed review of both cameras, including a video review, for those interested.

In this article, I will not be comparing these newer models with older technology. I will focus on evaluating both based on key criteria for underwater videography. My experience is limited to using the Osmo Action 3 and Hero 11 for underwater filming, and I believe that certain factors are crucial in determining the effectiveness of an action camera in this context.

The DJI Osmo Action 3 Vs the GoPro Hero 11:

The battle of the action cameras continues with the release of theThe DJI Osmo Action 3 Vs the GoPro Hero 11. Both cameras offer impressive features, but there are some key differences to consider.

• A sensor 
• A depth rating
• Impressive battery life
• Minimum focus distance
• Cinematic modes.

I prefer the DJI Osmo Action 3

As an underwater photographer and videographer of The DJI Osmo Action 3 Vs the GoPro Hero 11, I prioritize the superior depth rating, larger sensor, and user-friendly cinematic modes over the GoPro Hero 11’s slightly shorter minimum focus distance and higher resolution. I already have the Olympus TG6 for close-up and macro shots; the 5.3K resolution of the GoPro seems unnecessary as it drains the battery faster without significantly enhancing the viewer experience, especially considering most social media users watch videos in 1080p.

In my opinion, it is not only more cost-effective but also better suited for underwater videography. If you’d like to delve deeper into this comparison, let’s explore the full review.

A Couple of terms and explanations:

Before starting, it’s important to acknowledge that not everyone possesses a deep understanding of camera technology and terminology. If you are new to using action cameras or haven’t delved into the technical details before, here are three terms I will be mentioning along with their definitions.

3-axis Stabilization:

A cutting-edge feature found in cameras and lenses that minimizes the impact of camera movement and vibrations leads to clearer images and more seamless videos. In this scenario, the three axes symbolize the three possible rotational motions a camera may undergo: pitch, yaw, and roll.

10-bit color:

The 10-bit color designation pertains to the level of color detail recorded and handled by the image sensor in a camera. Bit depth signifies the number of bits employed to depict each color channel within an image. A heightened bit depth enables a wider spectrum of color data and finer distinctions between various hues.

Minimum focus distance:

The minimum focus distance of a camera is the closest range at which the lens can precisely focus on a subject to create a clear image. Essentially, it is the minimum distance between the camera’s sensor and the subject that allows for effective capture by the lens.

The GoPro Hero 11:

Check out this concise overview of the features and capabilities of the GoPro Hero 11:

• Cutting-edge Stabilization: Experience the next level with Hyper smooth 5.0 stabilization
• Vivid 10-bit color. The Hero 11 by GoPro captures video quality with resolutions of 5.3K at 60 fps and 4K at 120 fps.
• 1.9 image sensor
• depths up to 33 feet (10m) 
• cinematic modes for creative filming.
• Enjoy extended battery life of up to 120 minutes at 1080p 30fps
• Minimum focus distance of 12 units for up-close shots.

DJI Osmo Action 3:

• Cutting-Edge Stabilization: DJI introduces their latest Electronic Image Stabilization technology in the Osmo Action 3.
• Vibrant 10-bit Color: Experience the Osmo Action 3’s ability to capture vivid 10-bit color, delivering a spectrum of rich and nuanced hues comparable to the GoPro Hero 11.
• Impressive High-Resolution Performance: The Osmo Action 3 boasts the capability to shoot high-quality 12MP photos and smooth videos at resolutions up to 4K at 120fps.
• Equipped with a 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor
• Dive Deep: With a depth rating of up to 52 feet (16 m),
• Cinematic Creativity: Explore various cinematic modes
• Minimum focus distance: Achieve a minimum focus distance of just 1.3–0.4 meters.

How GoPro Hero 11 and the DJI Osmo Action 3 stack up:

Let’s analyze both to see how they compare. We’ll conduct a detailed comparison of their features, using examples from the review video I created for NNT’s YouTube Channel.

Image Stabilization:

Image stabilization on the GoPro Hero 11pro is its Hyper-smooth Boost mode, which provides an extra layer of stabilization for high-speed activities. This feature allows you to capture ultra-smooth video at up to 4K resolution, giving your footage a cinematic quality that will impress any audience. With the Hero 11pro’s image stabilization capabilities, you can focus on capturing epic moments without worrying about shaky footage ruining the shot.

The image stabilization technology of the DJI Osmo Action 3 is truly game-changing. With its advanced stabilization system, this action camera ensures that your videos are free from unwanted shakes and jitters, even when shooting in high-action scenarios at 4K 120fps. The result is incredibly smooth and professional-looking footage that will impress viewers with its cinematic quality.

I have applied stabilizing software to the footage from both sides for optimal stability. Upon initial observation, I do not perceive a significant difference between the two cameras’ footage straight out of the camera

Colour:

Both cameras have the ability to capture over a billion colors due to their 10-color depth capability. This extensive color range allows for the creation of vivid underwater scenes.

The exposure settings can influence the last appearance of a scene; both cameras excel at capturing vibrant colors. With this camera, you can capture striking shots of powder blue surgeonfish, showcasing their vivid hues.

Transitioning from 8-bit to 10-bit color depth is significant, particularly in enhancing the blues, which are among the first hues to diminish as you dive deeper underwater.

Resolution:

Rumors suggest that the latest GoPro Hero 11 outperforms others by boasting an impressive 5.3K resolution. It’s that not everyone requires resolutions beyond 4K for their content consumption needs. Utilizing higher resolutions, like 5.3K, can potentially drain battery life and demand more storage space. Given that most viewers typically watch videos in standard 1080p quality, ultra-high resolutions may not be practical for everyday use.

The GoPro’s enhanced resolution capabilities are groundbreaking; these features might not deliver substantial advantages to the average user. Consumers need to assess their specific requirements and preferences before investing in such advanced video technology.

Sensor:

Check out the side-by-side comparison of the GoPro Hero 11 and DJI Osmo Action 3 footage in my YouTube video. This will give you a clear understanding of the capabilities of each camera.

The Osmo 3 features a 1.7-inch sensor that excels in low-light underwater conditions due to its superior light sensitivity and maintains image quality even at greater depths. Its larger sensor also allows for a shallower depth of field, perfect for highlighting subjects and creating artistic background blur in underwater photography.

The GoPro Hero 11 comes with a slightly smaller 1.9-inch sensor that still performs well underwater, has decent light sensitivity, and produces quality images paired with advanced technology.

Depth Rating:

The DJI Osmo 3 truly shines for its waterproof rating, offering a significant advantage over the Hero 11 with a rating of 16m compared to 10m. This is particularly beneficial for both my free diving and scuba diving pursuits.

For scuba divers, the Osmo 3’s depth capability of 16 meters aligns closely with the maximum depth, typically up to 18 meters with a PADI open water certificate. As a free diver, I regularly dive to depths around 20m. This means that with the DJI Osmo 3, there’s no need for expensive housing if you’re sticking to recreational dive depths.

Improved waterproofing is undeniably one of the standout features of the DJI Osmo 3, and it is even more impressive on the Osmo 4 at 18 meters.

Exposure and cinematic presets:

It stands out for its impressive slow-motion feature, giving it an edge over the GoPro Hero 11 in terms of cinematic shooting presets. I particularly enjoy capturing mesmerizing footage of large schools of fish moving in unison, slowed down to reveal their intricate details. The simplicity of selecting slow motion mode on it adds to the overall appeal of this camera for me.

Minimum Focus Distance:

The GoPro hasn’t surpassed the DJI in any significant way yet, but it stands out in this particular aspect. Minimum focus distance plays a crucial role in photography and videography, as it determines how close you can get to your subject.

Action cameras commonly have long minimum focus distances, which require you to be further away compared to standard cameras to achieve proper focusing. For instance, the GoPro Hero 11 boasts a minimum focus distance of one foot (.3048 m), while the other requires 1.3 feet (0.4m). Although minor, this disparity becomes significant underwater when shooting up close.

A note about minimum focus distance:

When I first used action cameras for filming, I thought they worked like regular cameras. But I quickly learned that action cameras are best for wide-angle shots, not close-ups. This was obvious when I tried filming underwater scenes with colorful fish and eels. Action cameras like them can’t capture these details and regular cameras. When I travel, I always bring my Olympus TG6 for close-up shots in photos and videos.

I have compiled a detailed analysis explaining why I believe the TG6 stands out as the top choice among underwater point-and-shoot cameras. If you are interested, feel free to explore it. One drawback is that the TG6 lacks built-in image stabilization, requiring either a gimbal or, like myself, using it for close-up shots that an action camera can’t capture while reserving the action camera for wide-angle shots aiming to encompass a broad section of a reef scene.

Conclusion:

The DJI Osmo Action 3 Vs the GoPro Hero 11 offers impressive features for underwater photography. The DJI Osmo Action 3’s front-facing screen and advanced stabilization make it a great choice for capturing smooth footage in various conditions.

The GoPro Hero 11’s improved image quality and waterproofing capabilities provide added versatility for underwater shooting. The choice between these two cameras will depend on individual preferences and specific needs.

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