There are two big things I wish action cameras did – better low light performance, and better closeups. The new DJI Osmo Action 6 solves for one of them by introducing the first-ever action camera with an adjustable aperture opening all the way up to F2.0.
It also has all the usual features like image stabilization, high frame rates for slow motion, and solid battery life. So, is it worth upgrading? Here’s what you need to know…
Why does Aperture matter? How does this compare?
First off, aperture numbers are flipped. Smaller numbers mean a bigger opening at the lens, letting more light reach the sensor. Anything below f/2.0 is usually the realm of ultra-expensive DLSR lenses, but most action cameras get close. Here are the specs for the current top models:
- GoPro HERO 13 – f/2.5 – 156º FOV – 1/1.9″ (0.526″) sensor
- Insta360 Ace Pro 2 – f/2.6 – 157º FOV – 1/1.3″ (0.769″) sensor
- DJI Osmo Action 6 – f/2.0 to f/4.0 – 155º FOV – 1/1.1″ (0.909″) sensor
* The prior Osmo Action 5 Pro had a fixed f/2.8 aperture and 1/1.3″ sensor. Stated FOV (Field of View) are maximum wide angle with standard lens, but can be expanded with aftermarket lens upgrades available for all three models.
The variable aperture system operates in multiple modes. Auto mode automatically adjusts aperture settings based on lighting conditions. Starburst mode creates star-like effects around bright lights in urban settings.
When paired with the separately sold Macro Lens accessory, the camera achieves a minimum focus distance of 11 cm, compared to 35 cm without the accessory. The FOV Boost Lens expands the field of view from 155° to 182°.
Bigger sensor, too
Not only does the new Osmo Action 6 let more light into the sensor, it also has a bigger sensor at almost 1″ square. All else being equal, bigger sensors capture more light, which means less pixelation noise in low-light situations.
To take advantage of that, DJI has added SuperNight Mode, which expands the max ISO to 51,200, double the ISO available in standard filming modes.
If you’ve ever tried to capture footage as dusk and ended up with grainy footage, your aperture and sensor size are mostly to blame. The Osmo Action 6 should be able to do much better here.
Other key features for Osmo Action 6:
- 4K120 / 1080p240 (that’s 5x slo-mo 4K at 24fps)
- 50GB internal storage (enough for most day trips)
- 240-minute run time per charge (that’s up to 4 hours)
- Electronic Image Stabilization (all the usual modes)*
- 2x Lossless Zoom (keeps it at 4K even when zoomed)
- Natural Wide FOV (basically “dewarp” mode)
- Film Tone (customizes footage with a selection of six built-in film tones)
- Portrait Mode (detects and prioritizes the subject’s color & skin tone)
- Subject Centering and Tracking (keeps the subject centered)**
*Regarding the image stabilization, the same four modes/options carryover from the prior model – RockSteady 3.0/RockSteady 3.0+, HorizonBalancing and HorizonSteady – and all work at 4K/60fps. As you add more stabilization, the images crops in, but that’s how all brands do it.
**Subject centering/tracking is pretty cool if you post Reels. Shoot Horizontally so you have what you need for YouTube, then use the app to automatically convert it to Vertical footage for social and it’ll keep the subject centered in the video.
Native compatibility with their DJI Mic 3 kit means it’s easier to narrate your adventures without having to add voiceovers in post (or bring adapters).
An available NDR filter lens kit is one of many accessories available. The Osmo Action 6 uses the magnetic quick-connect mount system, so it’s compatible with virtually every existing mount they’ve offered. The camera body and lens are slightly larger than prior models, so you’ll need a new waterproof case if that’s your thing, otherwise most accessories should work.
MSRP is $329 for the camera with various bundles available. We’d recommend the Enhanced Combo to get the extra battery and charging case.
As for availability, it’s not immediately available through DJI’s website for US customers, but you can get it on Amazon.
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