Review: DJI Osmo Pocket

These days, almost anyone can become a vlogger. YouTube has taken the internet by storm and the term vlogging isn’t a new concept anymore. Self-made vloggers like Casey Neistat and Logan Paul have created digital communities where they show off their everyday lives — the plus side? They get paid to do it. From long distance couples to families with a dozen kids, there are a million things one could vlog about. With that competition, more and more people are swapping their smartphones for DSLRs in the pursuit of quality content.

DJI has revolutionized the world of vlogging with the DJI Osmo. It has made vlogging a hundred times easier, without having to compensate for any of the DSLR’s most beloved features. It offers superb stabilization while fitting inside your pocket. The DJI Osmo is the tiny, portable vlogging companion that anyone who wants to make it big on YouTube should use. Now, you don’t have to feel embarrassed of having to vlog at a restaurant. No more unnecessary arm workouts because of your huge DSLR complete with an external microphone and other bulky camera gear. The DJI Osmo gives you full 4K video and convenience in such a tiny package.

Want to improve your content? Get a DJI Osmo Pocket. It’s the DJI Osmo product that we recommend for “typical” vloggers. It’s easy to use, pocket-friendly and affordable.

Overview

This is what we’d like to call the “no fuss pocket device that’s perfect for everyone.” Among the DJI Osmo Pocket’s many great features, its ease of use is probably why so many vloggers have switched to using it. With the DJI Osmo Pocket, you can record full 4K 60fps-capable video that’s fluid and silky, without having to carry a gimbal, because it’s already a hand-held camera stabilizer on its own. It also captures photos in both JPEG and Raw at 12 megapixels.

The DJI Osmo Pocket instantly counteracts shaky motion with its built-in stabilizer. Pair that with its neatly-designed, wand-like handle, and you get a whole lot of versatility when it comes to taking some cool panning and tracking shots. The best way to describe the DJI Osmo Pocket is that it’s like a fancy film-making crane, without the humungous size and the complexity. It can also record time lapses and slow motion video with ease. Face-tracking is a neatly added bonus that vloggers will find especially useful.

Build Quality

Thanks to its tiny (we’re not kidding when we say this) size, you can take the DJI Osmo Pocket anywhere and everywhere. Measuring only 121.9 x 36.9 x 28.6 mm, this lightweight device is smaller than DJI Osmo 2 that was released early last year, making it literally pocket-friendly — it slips right into your back pocket!

Its wand-shaped handle is non-slip and sweat-proof, making it easy to use with just one hand. The one inch touchscreen display enables users to quickly flick through different modes and settings. You also have the option to attach it to your smartphone for a wider viewfinder, but we found that the built-in screen is good enough for framing shots and cycling through the controls. You do, however, have to rely on your smartphone to see some settings that may not appear on the one-inch screen.

Unlike the DJI Osmo Mobile that came with a case, the DJI Osmo Pocket replies on a durable protective shell. We thought this would make the device less pocket-friendly, but luckily, its shape allows the Osmo Pocket to remain slim. But, without a shell, the Osmo Pocket does feel a tad more fragile on the outside. You might need to get a separate case to protect your Osmo Pocket from the bumps, scratches and falls.

Slow Motion and Face-Tracking

This handheld device can record slow-motion clips at 120 fps HD 1080p with some visible noise. It isn’t as impressive as the iPhone X’s slow motion capabilities at 240fps 1080p or the Samsung Galaxy S10’s 960fps 720p. Given this, there will be less detail when shooting in slow-motion.

If you’re worried about moving out of frame, the DJI Osmo Pocket solves that problem with its face-tracking feature. Face Tracking lets the camera head tilt 180 degrees, following your face the entire time, making it the ideal vlogging camera for vloggers.

Exporting videos

Yes, you can export files using Lightning and USB-C adapters. The DJI Osmo Pocket comes with a universal port which makes transferring files from one device to another extremely fast and reliable.

For Instagrammers, the DJI Osmo Pocket has integrated “Story”-ing into the device. A mode called “Story Mode” allows users to immediately assemble clips and edit them while the Osmo is attached to the smartphone. It includes professional-looking transitions and camera whips, as well as background music, titles and stickers. The only downside to editing right in the Osmo Pocket is that the export is limited to 720p. We suggest transferring the files to another video editor if you want the best export quality.

The DJI Mimo app

Much like other camera apps that allow users to control their device via smartphone, the DJI Mimo app connects to your mobile at an impressive rate. While testing the app, the connection between the Osmo Pocket and the Mimo App never broke when transferring files via Bluetooth.

Battery life

The DJI Osmo Pocket can record for as long as 140 minutes with settings set at 1080p 30fps. The battery life is great for vloggers who can constantly switch the device on and off, preserving more battery. But, for those who have longer shoots, we strongly advise getting a portable battery so you can recharge your Osmo Pocket on the go.

Verdict

The DJI Osmo Pocket instantly ups your vlogging game with its small camera that still offers excellent stabilization, all thanks to the one-hand-friendly gimbal. It fits in your pocket and lets you edit and upload videos right onto your YouTube channel or to your Instagram Stories. Shooting at 4K isn’t something limited to the pros anymore — with the Osmo Pocket, you can have quality videos that are easy to shoot. It isn’t as durable as the previous DJI Osmo Mobile, but for vloggers who just need smooth video, it’s a great alternative to bulky DSLRs. Vloggers who require a sturdier build might want to go for the newer DJI Osmo Action, but get that only if you’re into extreme outdoor sports and travel.