The original DJI Osmo Action was DJI’s first direct entry into the action-camera market. It brought a front-facing screen, 4K video at up to 60 fps, RockSteady electronic stabilisation and a rugged body at a time when GoPro was the obvious reference point.
It is now an older model, so this review is most useful if you find one at a sensible used or refurbished price. It remains capable for daylight travel footage and casual action video, but it should not be judged as though it were a current flagship camera.
Who is the original DJI Osmo Action for?
It suits travellers, cyclists, walkers and anyone wanting a small, durable camera for well-lit video. The front colour screen is particularly helpful for self-filming, while the rear touchscreen makes framing and changing settings straightforward.
If you want the most advanced low-light video, the latest stabilisation or long-term accessory support, compare current action cameras instead. Our guide to choosing an action camera explains what features matter for different uses.
Video quality and RockSteady stabilisation
The camera records up to 4K at 60 frames per second and up to 1080p at 240 fps for slow motion. In good light, it produces detailed, pleasant footage for travel, walking, cycling and short social-video edits. It also offers HDR video and time-lapse modes.
RockSteady electronic stabilisation is the standout feature. It smooths ordinary hand-held movement effectively and helped make the original Osmo Action a credible alternative to similarly priced action cameras of its generation. Like all electronic stabilisation, it is less convincing in darkness or extremely rough movement.
The camera uses a fixed-focus ultra-wide lens. That is normal for an action camera: it is designed to keep a wide scene acceptably sharp rather than track a close moving subject with autofocus. It is not a substitute for a dedicated camera when you need selective focus, wildlife reach or serious still photography.
Design, screens and durability
The body is compact and solid, with simple physical buttons alongside the touchscreen. At 124 g, it is easy to mount on a helmet, handlebars or a small grip. The front screen is useful for checking framing before you begin recording yourself.
The camera is waterproof to 11 metres (36 feet) without an additional housing when its doors are correctly closed. Use a dedicated waterproof case for deeper water and inspect seals before every water session.
Photo quality
The Osmo Action captures 12MP JPEG and DNG RAW photos. In bright conditions, it can produce useful wide-angle stills for travel records, but video is where the camera makes most sense. A phone or a dedicated camera will usually be more flexible for still photography, especially in low light.
Battery life and connectivity
The 1300mAh battery was rated for up to 135 minutes at 1080p/30 fps with stabilisation off and screen-sleep enabled, or up to around 63 minutes at 4K/60 fps with RockSteady enabled. Actual time varies with temperature, recording mode, Wi-Fi use and battery age—especially important when buying used.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth support the DJI Mimo app for file transfer, remote control and settings. Before purchasing a used camera, check current app and phone compatibility for your region and operating system.
Key specifications
- Sensor: 1/2.3-inch CMOS, 12MP
- Lens: 145° field of view, f/2.8, fixed focus
- Video: up to 4K/60 fps; up to 1080p/240 fps
- Photo: JPEG and DNG RAW
- Stabilisation: RockSteady electronic image stabilisation
- Screens: 1.4-inch front display and 2.25-inch rear touchscreen
- Waterproofing: up to 11 m / 36 ft without a housing
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and USB-C
Pros
- Effective RockSteady stabilisation for its generation
- Useful front screen for self-filming
- 4K/60 fps and 1080p/240 fps options
- Simple, durable action-camera design
- RAW photo option and HDR video modes
Cons
- Older hardware and software platform
- Low-light video is behind newer action cameras
- Fixed-focus lens is not suited to close-up or selective-focus work
- Battery condition is a key consideration when buying used
- No GPS or HDMI port
Verdict
The original DJI Osmo Action is still a practical camera for daylight adventures when bought cheaply. Its front screen, solid stabilisation and 4K/60 video remain useful, and it is far more than a basic budget camera.
Do not buy it at a price close to a current model. Buy it only when the value is clear, the battery and seals are in good condition, and the camera’s simple fixed-lens approach matches what you need to film.
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