If you’re not a GoPro enthusiast, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro might be the action camera worth waiting for.
DJI’s action camera line has long been a great alternative to GoPro. The DJI Osmo Action 4, released last year, boasted powerful features and a lower price than GoPro’s Hero12 Black.
Now, it appears the Action 4 is getting a Pro-level sequel. Tech Radar reports that regular drone leaker Quadro News has revealed the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro on X.
While details are sparse, the new action cam was spotted on the website of the Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) in the United Arab Emirates. The listing includes a model number, AC004. Quadro News hinted at additional exciting developments beyond DJI drones, likely referencing leaks about the DJI Air 3S, a much-anticipated drone following the Air 2S release in 2021. However, with a potential DJI drone sales ban progressing through Congress, the Air 3S might not be available in the US.
Considering DJI’s recent release of the Osmo Pocket 3 with a 1-inch CMOS sensor, the Osmo Action 5 Pro might follow a similar path.
In general, the “Pro” tag signifies that the device offers more features and upgrades than the standard model. However, with limited information, it’s uncertain if DJI will release both a Pro and a baseline model of the Osmo Action 5.
If DJI does introduce a Pro model, it would be the first time they use the “Pro” moniker in their product lineup.
Many commentators are hoping for a 1-inch sensor in the Action 5, which would be an upgrade from the 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor in the Action 4. While the Leica lens on the Insta360 Ace Pro, which supports 8K, left us disappointed, it still surpasses the Action 4’s 4K capability. Even the recently released Insta360 X4 offers 8K recording.
To fit the Pro naming convention, DJI will need to enhance the already impressive specs of the Osmo Action 4. Improved battery life is a key area for enhancement, as the Action 4 only managed 80 minutes of mixed recording before running out of power. Additionally, better cooling is necessary, as the Action 4 could overheat quickly in non-cooling environments.
A Pro model typically also comes with a higher price tag. The Action 3 and Action 4 were popular because they offered great features at a lower cost than GoPro’s action cameras. The Action 4 launched at $399, so it’s likely that an Osmo Action 5 Pro will be priced higher, possibly approaching the cost of a GoPro.