Comparison of the GoPro Hero 11 Black and the DJI Osmo Action 4: the best action cameras on the market

Action cameras have become indispensable for extreme sports enthusiasts, travellers and vloggers. If you’re in the market for an action camera, you’ve probably heard of the GoPro Hero 11 Black and the DJI Osmo Action 4. Both cameras are popular choices for capturing high-quality footage of your adventures. Here’s a comparison of the two cameras to help you decide which one is right for you.

Design and engineering

The GoPro Hero 11 Black and DJI Osmo Action 4 have evolved over time to present a remarkably similar design. The unique vertical design of the Action 2 has been abandoned. Both cameras share comparable dimensions and are equally light, with a difference of less than 10 grams between them. However, the Osmo Action 4 stands out with its second touch screen on the front, offering improved ergonomics for capturing selfies and making vlogs.

Image and video quality

When it comes to image and video quality, both cameras are capable of capturing stunning footage. In terms of pure resolution, the Hero 11 Black takes the lead with its 5.3K video capture capability, an impressive feature of the GoPro Hero range. The Hero 11 Black can record at 5.3K/30fps in a variety of aspect ratios, even reaching 60fps with a 16:9 aspect ratio. It can also record in 4K at up to 120 fps and in 2.7K at up to 240 fps.

The Osmo Action 4, meanwhile, offers 4K video at up to 120 fps and 1080p resolution at up to 240 fps. While the Osmo Action 4 can’t match the 5.3K resolution of the Hero 11 Black, it does offer high-quality video performance. Also, the DJI Osmo Action 4 has a wider field of view, meaning you can capture more of your surroundings with every shot.

Sensor:

Despite the higher resolution of the GoPro Hero 11 Black, the Osmo Action 4 houses the larger sensor of the two action cameras. The Osmo Action 4 is equipped with a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor, while the Hero 11 Black is equipped with a 1/1.9-inch CMOS sensor. A larger sensor offers a number of advantages, particularly in terms of low-light performance. This means that the Osmo Action 4 performs better in low-light conditions, capturing clearer details and reducing noise.

Stabilisation

Both cameras feature excellent stabilisation technology to ensure that your images are smooth and stable. The GoPro Hero 11 Black has HyperSmooth 4.0 stabilisation, while the DJI Osmo Action 4 has RockSteady stabilisation. Both technologies work well, but some users prefer RockSteady stabilisation on the DJI Osmo Action 4.

Waterproofing

Waterproofing is an important feature to consider when buying an action camera. The DJI Osmo Action 4 is waterproof up to 18 metres without a waterproof housing and up to 60 metres with the DJI waterproof housing. By contrast, the GoPro Hero 11 Black is limited to a depth of 10 metres without a waterproof case. However, using GoPro’s protective housing, the Hero 11 Black can also withstand immersion to a depth of 60 metres.

Hence, the DJI Osmo Action 4 is more waterproof than the GoPro Hero 11 Black, but both cameras can reach a depth of 60 metres with the appropriate waterproof housing. The DJI Osmo Action 4 also has a special coating that repels water and oil, meaning you don’t have to worry about smudges or fingerprints on the lens.

User-friendly features

Both cameras are user-friendly and easy to use, but the DJI Osmo Action 4 has a front screen that makes it easier to frame your shots. The GoPro Hero 11 Black doesn’t have a front screen, but it does have voice control, which means you can use it hands-free.

Accessories

Both cameras come with a range of accessories to make them even more versatile. The GoPro Hero 11 Black comes with a waterproof case, mounting frame and quick-release base. The DJI Osmo Action 4 comes with a waterproof case, mounting frame and quick-release base, as well as a lens filter kit and charging hub.

The verdict:

In conclusion, the GoPro Hero 11 Black and DJI Osmo Action 4 are both excellent action cameras with impressive features. If you’re looking for superior video resolution, the GoPro Hero 11 Black is an ideal choice with its 5.3K capture capability. However, if low-light performance is more important to you, the Osmo Action 4 and its larger sensor are a better choice. Make your choice based on your specific needs and intended use.

See also:

• DJI Osmo Action 4: The best action camera for capturing your adventures
• Logitech Mevo Start: Everything you need to know about the Wireless Streaming Camera