DJI Action 4 vs GoPro Hero 12, One is not worth it

[@JakeSloan]

The hero 12 is not worth the upgrade IMO. what do you think?

[@temujen]

Definitely not worth upgrading, and I will usually find any reason to upgrade! Been a GoPro user and have had 3 or 4 different iterations, but my next action camera will be a DJI.

[@nicksangetta8874]

The linear setting on the GP12 is warped. No longer do they offer the cropped linear view like on the 11. Nope, now its this super wide frame of view and only the middle 1/3 of the picture looks normal. When panning around the mountains it looks like a fish bowl. Its ridiculous looking and I cant believe none of these "in depth" review channels have mentioned this huge flaw.

[@nicksangetta8874]

aaaaand just got home with the new DJI Action 4 and it does the exact same thing in standard view. It stretches the sides. It is not as bad as the GP12 but it looks like complete garbage all the same. I am taking it back. I mean woopty doo if it has a 1 inch sensor if the images come out looking warped. Looks like I am going back to my trusty GP11. The last linear action cam..

[@R.T7101]

If u ever used a 16mm DSLR, Action4 standard view is same with 16mm. set to rocksteady+ or HorizonSteady will alleviate the stretching because the filed of view become narrow. @@nicksangetta8874

[@rockels_journals]

@@nicksangetta8874 Both the Hero12 as also the OA4 are just simple "updates" of the previous model. It's nothing about renewing, it's just like releasing a yearly "new" camera to continue cashflow. The H12 is just a firmware updated H11. It has the same housing and everything. They just have decreased bittrates fairly to accomplish better thermal performances and longer runtimes. But I'm sure they could had accomplished this with the Hero11 firmware too. It would probably just work the same if you would be able to flash the H12 firmware on the 11. The OA4 on the other hand is just a OA3v2.0 with fixed focus problem. However they've upgraded the image sensor a bit to give people that little extra instead of just a firmware update. I had returned the OA3 last year, sold my Hero11 this year without loss and was therefore able to buy the Hero12 by just adding a small $50. It felt like it was the most smart thing to do, while I still had all the cases and spare batteries, which I can still use now. But besides that there's no real good alternative right now. But I guess when I did not had all these accesories, then I would probably had left both DJI and GoPro and did I went fot the Insta360 X3. Only disadvantage on that cam is that accessories are verry pricey and that it's verry vulnerable with it's (not removable) lenses. At least the Gopro has it's advantage having that 8:7 aspect ratio. Which allows "reframing" a bit. So you could compensate a bit vertically when ducking or walking up or down hills or staircases. But it will be a hustle in post... I actually feel both the Hero12 and OA4 are not worth the update...

[@nasasadventure6469]

I'm just a random guy commenting (which I never do): This is one of the best comparisons I think I've even seen in my life hehe. Most important part is that this guy is not getting sponsored. Other than that --> easy to understand, organized, to the point, clear etc. Keep going!

[@JakeSloan]

thank you very much

[@SchuylerOrtega]

Great comparison. Since I didn’t own a previous action camera the familiar style menus and color profile (and mounting) led me to the Action 4. It’s a great camera and is very quick and intuitive to use. Went on vacation and didn’t have a single glitch or hiccup first time really using the Action, no regrets.

[@JakeSloan]

exactly why I am using the action 4 now over gopro

[@csskrouble]

Just got the Action 4. Never coming back to GoPro. The User Experience and unboxing is 10x much better, and GoPro with 5.3k doesn't make up really for the quality that Action 4 offers. DJI knows their work, and i'm very satisfied with their product, can recommend it 100%.

[@JakeSloan]

I agree!

[@ryanyu5051]

Honestly it’s the best comparison video so far on these two actions cameras.

[@JakeSloan]

wow thank you so much

[@BOOSTEDLASER]

SO,WHO IS BETTER LOW LIGHT AND STABIL?@@JakeSloan

[@markwornom1050]

I definitely agree on it being the best comparison and even the quick switching function of the GP is covered. 👍

[@MohammadEhsanYousaf]

@@JakeSloan you are providing such an amazing videos of comparisons. Keep it up good work waiting for your 100k subs.

[@roman.keller]

Word! That’s also what I thought. Nice Job!

[@LasseInSurin]

I upgraded my GoPro 7 to GoPro 12 a few days ago and have not regret the switch. But many times I'm wondering if comparing image quality between cameras like Action 4 with GoPro 12 is much about "pixel peeping". I think if you would make videos with both cameras and view them on a big monitor, not side by side, I think it would be very hard to tell which video is recorded with which camera.

[@JakeSloan]

wow that is a HUGE upgrade lol. and yes looking at the video on my 5k monitor from both cameras the difference is almost non existent between them

[@tonyryan6767]

I bought both cameras, then I returned the Action 4 keep the GP 12. just like someone from other video said: GP12 is light years ahead in picture quality then the Action 4, Dji can shoot in low light but they appear washed out and grainy, it's very true.

[@ajayatulandshreyaghoshal9714]

I m first time user which one I shoud buy@@tonyryan6767

[@deanemberley2333]

@@JakeSloanI wanted to like the Action 4 because its form and function are much better than GoPro but for me as a Mountain Biker the GoPro is superior. That’s all I use it for. I will get the adapter though in the future for the Magnetic Mounting system. GoPro definitely has some work to do to keep up with DJI

[@jcml2015]

Nice video 👍 So, I've had a GoPro since the 6th, and this week I bought the hero 12 at BestBuy, I put it to film in 5K, and in 20 minutes it heated up and turned off, really the GoPro has been a disappointment in recent years, the touch on the screen as Sometimes it doesn't respond, and now it overheats after 20 minutes on a 5k, I've already ordered my DJI osmo action 4 and I'm going to return this hero 12.

[@JakeSloan]

Thanks for sharing! Sorry you've had so many issues with the 12 but I think you will be quite happy with the Action 4!

[@Dareyouhow]

Hi, just wondering how you found the switch to the action 4? I'm looking to buy it as a gift for a kayaker and I'm torn between it or the hero 12

[@EricGebhard]

Very nice comparison. I recently got the Action 4, and so far I am really happy with it. Previously, I used a Hero10, which is a nice camera, but I am really impressed with the Action 4 so far. I just used it in Chamonix for some Paragliding video. I filmed it in Log and I looking forward seeing how it grades. For audio and TC I used a Tentacle Sync and Track because I had about 3 cameras running for the video.

[@JakeSloan]

glad to hear it! I have been playing with the tentacle syncs myself and these cameras lol

[@kaptainsadventures9298]

can u go live with this camera

[@johnkilmerstone]

The fast charging and the charge retainment of the DJI OA4 is another significant advantage over the GoPro 12 (or any GoPro, for that matter). The ditching of the GPS by GoPro is the only way they could get better battery life. It's basically a GoPro 11 with different software-enabled functions. Shame on you, GoPro!

[@JakeSloan]

Agreed!!

[@cia9419]

But the video looks bad in DJI

[@johnkilmerstone]

@@cia9419 Not to me but to each his own. They are both great in good light but the DJI blows the GoPro out of the water in low light.

[@cia9419]

@@johnkilmerstone don’t lie to yourself lol 😂

[@johnkilmerstone]

@@cia9419 I don’t mate 😉

[@CAMTechChris]

Excellent review Jake. The Action 4 has definitely become my go to for action cams for all the reasons you mentioned. However, two things stand out for me as being most important. First is image quality. I just like the more natural look of the A4. The other is user interface, which for me is better on the DJI.

[@JakeSloan]

I agree on both points!

[@manrazvan]

Action 4 has the upper advantage on multiple points but how about the unlimited cloud subscription on the Gopro that could be a better user experience vs backing up to a solid drive that could break anytime. This is the only thing that stops me from buying an Action 4. Is there a way to solve this problem with an Action 4?

[@JakeSloan]

not directly, you would need a third party service like dropbox or back blaze etc as well, and that is a big plus for Gopro

[@letumoli]

I usually don't comment on videos, but this one deserves. My last gopro was a hero3+ and now i'm definitely going to buy the action 4. Thanks for the video.

[@JakeSloan]

you're welcome

[@fade1473]

I am in great uncertainty, whether to buy the action 4 or gopro 12. I feel that the action 4 mount will not suffice for when I ski or skate, as I do not trust magnets for when I fall, but then again the battery life is a great touch, but I also hate the UI

[@JakeSloan]

in addition to the magnets there are 2 small clips that also attach

[@juschandayo8435]

Hi Jake, hold onto the power button then press the shutter button to switch through presets on the GoPro (to not have to use the touch screen). It's had that function since HERO5 or 6.

[@JakeSloan]

Thats great info I completely forgot about that

[@juschandayo8435]

@@lmulli Just go click, click quickly.

[@jamiemckeon8973]

Jake! Thanks for this review, definitely helped me make a decision on which to buy. But upon getting my Action 4, I'm a little confused about which lens to use for underwater shots. The camera came with two options: the one with a protective hood center and the one with an open center. Was hoping you could help me out so I can start testing these shots. Or if you have recommendations on which option is best to use while snowboarding (will be my main use).

[@JakeSloan]

glad to hear it, for underwater the action 4 is waterproof up to 18m without any additional stuff, I am not sure what you mean by protective hood and open. I would use the action as it is out of the box after taking the protective stickers off for both underwater and snowboarding

[@DavidReynolds-kr6yh]

Action 4 is definitely the one for me, ease of use being the main reason, it just works straight out of the box. Plus the fact that it charges so much quicker. And lastly that magnetic mount, so innovative compared to GoPro.

[@JTube571]

Honestly I don't understand why GoPro insists on using a fixed mount with their camera. As an action camera, you should have the ability to quickly move the camera from a tri-pod to a selfie stick, or to a suction cup. The magnetic system on the Action 4 just simply does that better. And was one of the main reasons I purchased one, along with the quick record button being faster to boot up and start recording, and it works every time. (my old GoPro at times would simply refuse to power on when I pressed it)

[@JakeSloan]

agreed

[@PaddyPatrone]

Fasterer charge will give you less battery lifetime overall, same with phone batterys

[@robcarroll42]

I watched a few dozen comparison videos before I decided. For me and what I want to do with it I went with the Action 4. It will do 110% of what I want and has more options in my book. But my shop gets cold in the winter and I feel the GoPro just wouldn't cut it in that environment. And with 100% transparency it was this video that finally made up my mind. So for me I went with the Adventure Combo. I literally just got it in the mail today, so I will keep you posted on my views and opinions. Thanks for the videos and keep it up.

[@JakeSloan]

wow thank you so much!

[@robcarroll42]

Now that I have had time to play with it. Think I made the better decision. It's easy to setup and use. Will work with just about any mount. I would suggest if you buy a case for the camera. I can't suggest smallrig case strong enough. It's milled aluminum and you can still use any accessories with UT. It also has the mount on the bottom and the side so you can use it in any format.

[@DrivingPhilippines]

Truly an excellent review video! I purchased the GP11 a month before GP12 was announced. My requirement was a built-in GPS (OA4 doesn't have one), the GoPro Labs and the Open GoPro Developer API's were also of major value to me. Using GoPro Labs, I have a large floating level on the screen in all modes, a constant display of the actual ISO, Shutter Speed, and surrounding Sound Pressure (dB). I can customize the beep volume, I can start the camera filming when I reach a particular speed in my vehicle. I can write scripts to do fantastic things with the GoPro. I also set a High Bit Rate of 200Mbps, set Noise Reduction off so I get very good video in the dark at 5.3k 30fps, 100-1600 ISO. Another reason for the GP11 over the OA4 is the 27MP camera features. I have reduced my reliance on a smartphone for taking photos, and I have all the location data stored in each photo which is uploaded to Google Photos. I also upload driving footage to Mapillary (Open Street Maps) and contribute scenery footage of roads (similar to Google Street View). The OA4 (and now the GP12) are unable to do so natively.

[@JakeSloan]

you have some great and really solid points!

[@cryora]

Geotagging is a security risk

[@DrivingPhilippines]

@@cryora Tell us more. Give us your risk assessment, along with how its a security risk if I keep the videos on my private NAS. And how the risk increases when shared on specific social media platforms that strip EXIF data. Tell us.

[@cryora]

@@DrivingPhilippines The enemy can capture the device and use the data to find out where you've been.

[@DrivingPhilippines]

@@cryora Facebook, KZbin, and ALL social media messenging apps strip out EXIF data which holds GPS data. Tell us how the enemy will find where I have been.

[@chrusion]

The go/no-go feature for me is GoPro's temporal/spatial stabilization (aka Hypersmooth) that corrects rolling shutter "jello" on high-frequency, high amplitude vibrations on a line-by-line basis (rather than frame-by-frame on all other action cams). Does the Action 4 live up to this? Can you clamp an A4 to a high-frequency, high-amplitude source of vibration (like any sort of small craft engine, especially 2-stroke) and get jello-free, rocky steady images? The GoPro 8 Hypersmooth 2 can, so one can assume version 5 or 6 of the Hypersmooth algorithm in the GP12 works even better.

[@JakeSloan]

that would be an interesting test to try!

[@RandyCAstleMPM]

I watch a lot of YT and i gotta hand it to you, Jake. Your reviews are on a whole other level. From the footage to the details in the product to the comparison you hit home runs consistently, the time and effort you put into your work shows. Well done dude! I think I'm gonna upgrade from the Action 3 to the 4. I have to agree it does much better on matching skin color and on night footage. Dji really does have exceptional products.

[@JakeSloan]

Thank you so much!

[@colesky33]

I feel like you should also mention the max lens mod for GoPro. Nothing really compares to it from any other action cameras. Perfect horizon leveling at the maximum fov and resolution is very appealing for action cam users

[@JakeSloan]

thats true and unfortunately I just haven't been able to get one to test

[@PierPeterVinylSound]

the max lens mod and its super curved posts and trees and blured angles for 109 euros. No thanks.

[@colesky33]

@@PierPeterVinylSound from my experience it hasn’t been quite that bad but it does introduce a small amount of distortion… for me it’s worth it though

[@pinnysun8442]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts, this is the most comprehensive and clear comparison id seen so far. Strait to the points and no fancy editing with side tracked nonsense.

[@JakeSloan]

you're welcome

[@sovarycreative]

I went with the Action 4, the external audio and the rechargeable battery case sold me on it over getting another Go Pro.

[@JakeSloan]

Excellent choice!

[@mr-pacman7012]

Hi Jake, i am looking to buy one of those action cams, but I am not sure which one yet. Watching you’re video helps a lot. But I have one question, do you know of dji have the same editing program as GoPro like Quik because quick does most of the editing for you but I can’t find of dji has the same program. Thanks already.

[@JakeSloan]

They do have an app they recommend and use it's called lightcut: www.dji.com/downloads/djiapp/lightcut

[@PaddyPatrone]

Lol, how is testing 5k 30p on the gopro the same as 4k 30p on the dji ?

[@JakeSloan]

I don't know but if you WATCH the video you will see them side by side...

[@mtbboy1993]

12:02 that's weird it was not an option, it was on Hero 7, useful for setting up the angle on a helmet cam setup for example. Live preview is a must. Absurd if they removed it before. Did they bring it back for those cameras? was it just a app bug? Hero 7 Still has live preview.

[@JakeSloan]

They did bring it back in the 12 recently

[@mtbboy1993]

@@JakeSloan so not for th others? Which ones are effected? That's stupid if they did not include it. It's crudial for setting up the camera at correct angle.

[@jonadams8841]

that's surprising that the GP12 actually shuts down in cold water, since that's still above 32F/0C, so that begs the question what happens when you have the GP on your jacket while skiing or boarding, or hiking? That could be problem for cold water surfing, tho rarely would folks be surfing in icy water.

[@JakeSloan]

Well it actually works at colder air temps because water transmits cold and draws heat away so much faster than air does, but it still struggles with cold down around 0f

[@sdufg]

6:12 action face is darkened to the point of not visible whereas the gpro way more bright and natural. why? does dji suck? a setting i missed?

[@JakeSloan]

Possibly a setting

[@williamcampbell7329]

This is the best comparison I've seen so far. The image quality, especially color, with the Action 4 puts it as the clear choice. I've owned 2 GoPro cameras and both have come with problems. GoPro would have to be a clear winner for me to go back to them a third time.

[@JakeSloan]

Thank you and I agree

[@myguyyourguy4179]

I recreationally snowboard, and I am wondering which would be better for this considering the harsh white that is all over the place. I've never heard about this action camera before and always though that gopro would be better. It seems like the gopro is better for everything (snowboarding) except battery life & maybe white balancing. What would be your recommendation?

[@JakeSloan]

honestly I think either one will do well for you in that situation.

[@cactushill]

I will be purchasing the DJI Action 4. I currently have a GoPro 9 that has failed me several times due to overheating issues. Also, the 4 little screws, that hold the plate that the 2 tabs are connected to on the bottom of the GoPro, sheared off while I had the camera mounted to the front bumper of our Jeep. Fortunately, I have a custom bumper and the camera fell into the well of the bumper so I didn't lose the camera. To GoPro's credit they will be sending me a new mount but I need to find a camera shop that will be able to remove the remains of those 4 screws. We do use the camera for off-road driving so it does take some abuse so we will see how the DJI Action 4 does. Thanks for the review of the two cameras...A job well done...Thanks!

[@JakeSloan]

Sorry to hear of your troubles. I think you’ll be happy with the action

[@cactushill]

@@JakeSloan BTW Jake...I lived in Anchorage for 15 years and had a 36' sailboat in Seward. I wish there were these action cameras them.

[@LW_Lapse]

Can you use either with an extenal barttery pack and USB-C power?

[@JakeSloan]

yes you can use both but they will not be waterproof

[@LW_Lapse]

@@JakeSloan Awesome, thanks for the reply, that's definitely an advantage for timelapse

[@KCIsMe]

One thing I notice that wasn't mentioned is the action 4 looks like it's sharpening more, and it's a bit too much in my opinion

[@JakeSloan]

you can turn that down or up

[@KCIsMe]

@@JakeSloan that's good to hear

[@kennethpreston9813]

I’m very impressed with my Action 4 camera…. the video quality and ease of use is awesome

[@JakeSloan]

agreed!

[@MickMerrilees]

I’m going to walk the Camino de Santiago. Which of these would you recommend as opposed to taking my Nikon D750 camera & all of its associated extras (heavy lenses etc)?

[@JakeSloan]

For doing photos as well as video I’d lean toward the GoPro but the action 4 will handle heat better if that’s a concern

[@NoisyNeighborsBand]

Thanks for your comparison. I am looking for something to record our band videos. I was thinking the Action 4's low light performance would help for recording indoor gigs. I could always use a DSLR, but it seem like it's easier to use an action camera. Any suggestions?

[@JakeSloan]

for anything low light the action 4 is MUCH better

[@kimnaef9339]

@@JakeSloan Thanks for the great video comparison. I’ll purchase the Action 4 and use it in low light bar settings.

[@jerryicallsouthtexashome]

I can't find any videos. is the GoPro 7 worth it or an upgrade to the Action 4 is suggested? the tabs on the GoPro 7 batteries keep or falling off or removing. has happened on 2 OEM GoPro batteries and 3 aftermarket.

[@JakeSloan]

I would not get the gopro 7 even when it was new lol

[@jerryicallsouthtexashome]

@@JakeSloan thanks for replying back. I got it because it was cheap. have a blessed day.

[@mstuartkendall]

Great review. Thanks! I own the hero 10, and might upgrade to the 12 or the action 4. My concern for the action 4 is that it shoots in such a wide angle! My fear is that it makes my main subject appear smaller in the frame, and my shooting style disagrees with that. What’s your opinion of that extra wide angle.

[@JakeSloan]

that would likely be an issue for you with the Action 4 then, The hero 12 would be a better choice

[@mtbboy1993]

Can you improve the results by manual settings? Disappointed that the 12 can't handle cold well, I need it to handle low sub zero temps, sometimes it gets down to -15C where I live. More commonly down to -10C. Do Hero 12 have the endless beep when SD card is full like on Hero 7, locking the camera completely, so you have to take the battery out and swap sd card? I could not even go into the menu to delete videos.

[@JakeSloan]

You can somewhat for sure. I haven't filled an SD card on mine yet so I don't know about the endless beep on the 12

[@Kilakro]

I'm going on vacation soon and I want to get an action camera for swimming, are there a lot of options for wearing/mounting the Action 4?

[@JakeSloan]

there are

[@averykienbaum2904]

Hope you will see this and help me out! Have you ran both the action 4 and the hero 12 black in cold winter settings? I know the action 4 is ratted for -4F tempatures, and I know go pro has the Enduro batteryz, but as an extreme motorsports guy who does ton of cold weather activities, that's my biggest thing is how robust and reliable are the two? Which is better for my style? Hero 12 black for 400$ with 2x Enduro batteryz? Or action 4 for 400$ with 3x good batterys? The specs don't really matter as much as the reliability to me. I have a hero 7 black and it is a nightmare to matter the weather, love how it operates just not reliable enough.

[@JakeSloan]

the action 4 for me has been MUCH better in extremely cold temps, better battery life and just works, gopro still struggles when the batteries get cold

[@kmaqueira]

Do you think this product would be good to record pickleball matches or osmo action 4 ?

[@JakeSloan]

the action 4 for sure

[@playercool003]

Can we use both if these cameras as regular cameras set up on a tripod ...static video recording??

[@JakeSloan]

yes but the gopro will overheat much sooner

[@playercool003]

@@JakeSloan want to use action 4 for static recording like average 20 minutes videos...will work without overheating??

[@carmelathegypsea]

I have bought a GoPro camera twice but the power button got damaged/ destroyed and got wet inside(the water leaks). I think they need to improve on this. Now, I will try using a DJI camera.

[@JakeSloan]

Wow I’ve not heard of that happening

[@TheRADITOelPADRINO]

What first camera shoyld i get to vlog my sons basketball aau games never owned one before and was planning in buying one soon

[@JakeSloan]

I would consider the pocket 3 honestly

[@TheRADITOelPADRINO]

@JakeSloan thanks just took a look at pictures and the style looks amazing

[@bto88]

Hello Which one would you recommend for a motorcycle trip?

[@JakeSloan]

I'd go with the action 4

[@scannorse]

Bought the action 4. But…..wind cancelling is not great at all, so i need external microphone, again a but….i need waterproof mic setup. DJI´s setup for the DJI wireless mic is failing the waterproofing. Any way to get a waterproof setup with the action 4 and external mic ?

[@JakeSloan]

I think once DJI releases the DJI mic 2 system you’ll be able to pair wirelessly with it and keep the water tight covers on

[@IdahoMthman]

Great review! Thank you. Does anyone think dji will release a 5 before Xmas? Or a rough idea when the 5 will be released?

[@JakeSloan]

no they just released the 4 so we won't see a new action camera till next year sometime

[@Backnord1]

Hay jake! I have never had an action camera and gonna buy my first one tomorrow. Which one would you suggest?! Gopro 12 Creator Edition or Action 4 Adventure Combo?

[@JakeSloan]

I would suggest the Action 4 Combo. I think you'll be much happier with it

[@Backnord1]

@@JakeSloan Thanks a lot for the reply 🙏 Been watching hours of comparison between these two and still couldn't decide. Somehow my heart is with Gopro but my mind is with Action 4 😅 Really hard decision.

[@RonoTron01]

One thing that's not mentioned is that, after few years, my gopro outter casing starts get sticky and in a really nasty way. The case finish started to melt... I ended up getting a dji action 1 and after few year, no nasty built-up. I think this is the final naiil to the coffin why I will be switching to the action 4 for good.

[@JakeSloan]

nice good to know, my experience has been the same

[@kruispad247]

Amazing video! Thank you so much! I am using the GoPro 11 to record weekly sermons in 4k. When I need to cut, I zoom in (full to half body or vivce versa) for another angle (using Adobe Premere Pro). This is the reason for shooting at 5.3k with GoPro 11. Will I get the same quality with an DJI Action 4 @ 4k?

[@JakeSloan]

Thank you, yes you will but less overheating problems with the action 4

[@sony-hq3uz]

Is gopro 12 any better in low light, if you lower resolution to 4k or 2k?

[@JakeSloan]

Not really

[@alphaworld7472]

Man I started research about go pros today.. and I think dgi one is better in low light. Any recommendations

[@JakeSloan]

DJI for low light 100%

[@nomad0714]

Hey Jake, In the beginning, you mentioned you didn’t see difference between 4K and 5K. I would suggest shoot details like macros (close up) or details and you should see which is more detailed. Conversely, shoot 2.7K or 1080p on A4 vs 4K on GP12 and if my assumptions is wrong, then we can start buying 1080p cameras. For lowlight, both are bad and I don’t shoot action cams in these settings. A4 is better but why average down? For stabilization, same like the comparison of 4K vs 5K, not going to see difference is shooting wide and just general. But put both next to each other and shake the hell out of it (not real world) and you will see one better than the other. At least I saw the difference between HS 6.0 vs 5.0. It just shows tech advancement is more like incremental enhancements which leads to me suggesting these competitors to move the design cycle to 1.5-2yrs as if the changes are small to consumers, they won’t upgrade anyways. GP10 to 12, there is difference and worthy of upgrade for me, not with 11 to 12. A3 to 4 is not worthy of upgrade for me but for sure A5 when it releases. Good fair review. Glad to see you give more unbiased reviews. Not judging others who are sponsored as we all need to make a living but state it upfront then cherry pick to the brand that sponsors you. YT is about keeping or protecting your reputation. Otherwise it becomes disingenuous. Thanks for putting the work with these videos!

[@JakeSloan]

It's not that there isn't a difference, there definitely is just not nearly as much as I thought/hoped there would be

[@nomad0714]

@@JakeSloan, got it. I should have been more clear.

[@tonyryan6767]

I bought both cameras, then I returned the Action 4 keep the GP 12. just like someone from other video said: GP12 is light years ahead in picture quality then the Action 4, Dji can shoot in low light but they appear washed out and grainy, it's very true.

[@harryhasbeard8666]

Hi mate can you use a 1tb micro sd card in the osmo 4 ? I don't want to change out cards on a long trip away .cheers

[@JakeSloan]

That I’m not sure. You’d have to check DJI’s website for supported cards

[@jesusgjchuza6491]

I think the Action 4 is better, I really like it.

[@JakeSloan]

I agree

[@footballdemons9611]

Hello sir.. your all videos are so quality and useful. Thanks for hardworking.. a question pls; i want to use this machine for taking pictures.. what do you think about dji action 4 vs iphone 15 pro max photo comparations..

[@JakeSloan]

I think the iPhone look better overall

[@DawahLand]

Which camera was you using during talking about both the action cameras?

[@JakeSloan]

a7sIII and a 35mm f1.4 lens

[@DawahLand]

@@JakeSloan that explains why the quality was so good haha

[@arunr5529]

Do you think it’s possible to get cinematic style footage with the action 4?

[@JakeSloan]

it is but you'll have to work harder than a larger camera

[@arunr5529]

I don’t have a larger camera I have the Osmo mobile six still seems to go pretty good for cinematic footage

[@mdhcclothing4197]

I need to take videos when I’m inside of stores to record the prices of products. To do this I need to zoom in very closely. But I need the stabilization when I’m walking through isles. Which do you recommend?

[@JakeSloan]

either one will do ok but both will only focus so close, have you considered just using a new phone?

[@LeeVideo]

What about the voice control of the camera? I never owned action camera before I bought the Action 4 and it's working great.

[@JakeSloan]

Both work well. With GoPro you have to say “GoPro” before you tell it to record etc

[@MattyDemello]

Im definitely going with the dji 4. Im in a band and i need a camera thats good with low light or stage lights. The go pros have always been awful in low light. I don't have over $1k to buy an actual dslr. So the next best camera thats 4k plus. Is dji and insta360 pro 2 but i found an open box for the action 4 for 253 bucks. So thats what im buying. Hopefully the video is good with colored moving head lights and flashing lights for the stage. It can't be worse than the gopro though.

[@JakeSloan]

Nice!!

[@shubhampriyadarshi2963]

Nice comparison jake...just help me with this.... which of these two should i buy if my primary goal is to have good video quality...and if i use gopro 12 with Max lens 2.0..would i still get distortion in my picture quality ?

[@JakeSloan]

With the max lens mod you will get distortion for sure

[@magdowich]

exact same settings ? düd you are comparing 4k vs 5k under low light

[@JakeSloan]

yes

[@genusmecua]

Do you recommend me to upgrade my DJI Osmo Action 3 to DJI OA4?

[@JakeSloan]

I don't see the need to upgrade that but maybe when the action 5 comes out

[@RickLeBeau]

Excellent video. Thank you so much. Which app do you recommend for the Action 4? I see several apps but most look like 3rd party (not made by DJI). Thanks!

[@JakeSloan]

the official DJI mimo app for sure

[@RickLeBeau]

@@JakeSloan Thanks, just had to get it from the website, rather than via Google Play. That's been a DJI issue for a long time. Going back to my first DJI drone, I remember not being able to find the app through the usual channel (Play Store). I ended up getting the Osmo Mobile 6 last night, and tinkered with it for a couple hours. I may still get the Action 4 camera, but I'm going to wait a few ticks and see if I can learn more about it and possibly get it on a Black Friday sale.

[@adriano8729]

Great review! I am ready to upgrade from my Hero 9 as its getting a mind of its own! It freeze's up regularly and switches off mid ride! I am torn between the two. I love the fact that the Dji has magnetic mounting, Great battery, Fast charging and all round great usability but in my opinion for mountain biking the footage is too shaky whereas the hero 12 is buttery smooth. I'd love to hear your thoughts?

[@JakeSloan]

I feel they are pretty neck and neck on stabilization but since you are already well into the gopro eco system probably just for a hero 12

[@jimanderson4865]

Hi Jake.....Great review. I really need to step up to a action cam rather than using my note 10 + It would be the A4 for me......👍

[@JakeSloan]

It would be a great choice

[@marioplus321]

I got GP12 for 349EUR [+extra battery and 32GBmemory card]. I upgraded from GP11. Although initially I did not intend to do that, the price made me buy one;) I like hdr, 1/4mount and photo intervals possibility.

[@JakeSloan]

Nice. Thats a great deal

[@IndieVR]

Thanks, just ordered my hero 12 lol it is my first action camera. I will test it out while hiking in the mountains, my only worry is not having a gimbal and using nd filters with hypersmooth. Any advice on this particular setup please? Does action 4 stabilisation work well with nd filters?

[@JakeSloan]

no action cameras stabilize well with ND filters on so I recommend leaving them off for best stabilization.

[@IndieVR]

@JakeSloan Thank you sir 🙏

[@parthgupta4610]

Is the hero 12 better for me?I will be taking photos+videos in good to bad conditions.I dont really like the action 4 because of past experiences.

[@JakeSloan]

then probably get the hero 12

[@SVT_Maverick]

Which one is better for time lapse /night lapse ?

[@JakeSloan]

both will do well but the action 4 definitely does better in low light

[@alphaworld7472]

@1:05 which color is real

[@JakeSloan]

they are both the log profile so then flat color profile

[@h-dawg969]

Another helpful vid Jake. & another load of truly epic locations. The scenery around your way is so lush. Question… Does the Action 4 use the same size and type Batteries & NDs as the Action 3? Cheers

[@JakeSloan]

yes it does!

[@Simon_Spike_Duke]

Hi Jake i'm Currently using my S22 on a tripod with a wireless audio mic , with the mic attached to my lapel, i video myself in fishing matches and edit them and put them on my you tube channel . I now want to get a camera for doing this job, i am thinking Go pro 12 or DJ action 4 , or would the sony ZV-1F do the job . But i must be able to have a wireless Mic attachment as the camera will be away from me and there will be wind noise on some occasions . I also need to be able to hit record from a remote as i will be sitting on my seat box and i cant keep getting up and down during a match. Any advice would be greatly appreciated .

[@JakeSloan]

if the camera stays dry then consider the pocket 3 from DJI, with the creator combo you get a wireless mic that pairs with the pocket (no need for an extra receiver) but the mic can also start and stop recording on the pocket 3 remotely, check out this video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jWPUpqmen82YmbMsi=9YoqHxqsOEsn0kEX

[@yekhantkyaw172]

I am just a beginner and thinking of starting to vlog on daily basis. Which camera would you recommend? Thanks

[@JakeSloan]

For vlogs I would definitely go with the action 4 because of the easy ability to use external microphones and the better lowlight performance

[@yekhantkyaw172]

@@JakeSloan Thanks a lot

[@DarrenFantastic]

Great comparison! I’m considering which one to buy for myself. 😊 I want mine primarily for city walks and for attaching to my moped during daylight hours! Which would you suggest?

[@JakeSloan]

Either will do well but I would lean toward the action 4

[@TheLostBoy01]

for motovlog, for which one would you go? mounting camera on the helmet chin. in my eyes id say action 4. any one else having experienced both in that case?

[@JakeSloan]

Action 4 imo

[@maxtestory]

And for FPV, what's your opinion?

[@JakeSloan]

Both are excellent but if you prefer to stabilize in post the Action 4 works with gryroflow and is supported with an official lens profile etc. for GoPro you need to use reelsteady or gyroflow but there is no official profile yet in gyroflow.

[@CyrilSavio]

Nice video, great work man. I am planning to buy one, I want the camera for my cycling so, which one having good stabilization? either A4 or 12?. Thank you.

[@JakeSloan]

Either one will work well I’d lean toward the GoPro 12 for that though

[@CyrilSavio]

@@JakeSloan thank you

[@JJ-gm4ck]

2:21 where you hiking there? which mtn....its' not seymour lol

[@JakeSloan]

This is Blackstone bay vista area

[@JJ-gm4ck]

Thats amazing. It's a dead ringer for the mountains north of Vancouver BC@@JakeSloan

[@crazyobservations3080]

Gopro 11 is my first and last Gopro. I do like the video it renders well enough but the environment I use my cameras in is too hot for Gopro. The whole reason I bought the Action 4 is really the internal mic receiver. Now I can have a external mic without compromising the water resistance of the camera. That's important when ya do most of your recording on a boat surrounded by water.

[@JakeSloan]

agreed and I think you'll be quite happy with the action 4

[@roninr8199]

One thing is sure with go pro 13 after launch of pocket 3, action 4 and now insta360 Ace pro is for sure we will have 1/3 sensor or even 1 inch sensor.

[@JakeSloan]

hopefully!

[@magdowich]

Great video man, other channels didnt talk about lots of things that you showed 💯

[@JakeSloan]

Thanks!

[@ElectronTC]

Were you at the July 4th car launch by chance? If so you may have seen two M3s, one of them was me, (alongside way too many smaller ones, super sketch flying in that swarm)

[@JakeSloan]

I was not, I really wanted to be this year but I wasn't able to make it

[@x3thelast]

I use my GoPro H9B as an offroad dashcam on my jeep. The amount of time it turns off due to overheating is frustrating. While my buddy that has an Action 4 has not had any overheating issues during the same time, had had me jumping ships. Goodbye GoPro, you crawled so DJI can run.

[@JakeSloan]

good choice for that kind of filming!

[@SimplyScotlandPhotography]

Do you know if DJI do a care fresh with this camera?

[@JakeSloan]

you can get DJI care refresh with it

[@casar.704]

I can confirm the gopro doesnt like cold conditions. I am currently riding motorcycle while its 0°Celsius here, and the gopro sometimes swith off even that the battery if on 33%. Very enoying.

[@JakeSloan]

agreed!

[@PetersJourney]

thank you very much for that informativ Video. I have one Question: How about battery drain, when you are not using the cameras? this annoys a lot with my old Go Pro. Greetings from Vienna

[@JakeSloan]

I have not had that issue with the action 4 but with the gopro unless I turn it all the way off and pull the battery it will still drain slowly

[@PetersJourney]

@@JakeSloan thx a lot, for the fast answer

[@rajivshrivastava9556]

HEY I AM RAJIV FROM INDIA . I HAVE RECENT STARTED MY MOTO VLOGGING CHANNEL IN U TUBE , I HAVE SEEN YOUR COMPARISON VIDEO ON BOTH OF THESE CAMERAS , I REALLY APPRICIATE THIS . NOW I WANNA ASK YOU WHICH ONE SHOULD I GO FOR ACTION 4 OR HERO 12

[@JakeSloan]

I’d go for the action 4 as it handles heat better

[@TaniaMeyer-x9x]

So when you first, by this GoPro paid you can instantly take advantage of this price difference?

[@JakeSloan]

no you have to have been subscribed for 12 months I believe

[@jcody_parker]

Do you know exactly why they didn't / can't do 2.7k 240fps on the DJI Action 4? Could they just update it on the firmware, or is it a hardware issue?

[@JakeSloan]

I'm not sure but it could have to do with the 4:3 sensor as opposed to the 8:7 sensor. I would think it would be possible either way though

[@fixedfocusmediaofficial]

You can change presets on the GoPro by using the buttons instead of the touchscreen. I wish GoPro would advertise that. As for video quality, as a photographer I think both are bad out of the box but when I created my own custom settings my GoPro looked SO much better than it did out of the box. It definitely doesn't look as good as my 1080p camera from well over 10 years ago but it is as good as an action camera will ever get. I prefer the GoPro mount personally since a bolt is more secure than a magnet which is why things like cars and bridges aren't stuck together with magnets. GoPro reliability could definitely be improved though. Mine has improved significantly with updates but definitely isn't perfect. As for resolution, the lenses on action cameras are of such poor quality that it really doesn't add much benefit. My 6mp camera captures significantly more detail and makes much bigger prints than my 27mp GoPro. I avoided DJI since you have to register before you can use your camera which is ridiculous. GoPro requires an update before use which is also ridiculous but I prefer that over creating an account to register. I think fragile glass touchscreens on an action camera is a stupid design though.

[@JakeSloan]

100%

[@TallyTalwarOfficial]

I thought you would've tested it on the FPV setup.

[@JakeSloan]

I’ve tried so many times, but every time I was defeated by lightning because our sunset is so much earlier now it was difficult to get out in time to be able to do anything before it was dark. And the one place I was hiking is a no drone zone.

[@TallyTalwarOfficial]

@@JakeSloan looking forward to some Action 4 FPV footage. :)

[@terryshrives8322]

Great review! I just picked up the action 3 for $199 on Amazon. Eventually, I’ll be after the 4. Very exciting.

[@JakeSloan]

awesome!

[@hsnlens]

I was just waiting for you to do this review. 🎉🎉🎉

[@JakeSloan]

thanks for waiting! I hope it was helpful

[@victor.lequ95]

Great Video! I will use an action cam for snowboarding and probably diving (not too deep). Anyone an idea which one I should buy?

[@JakeSloan]

probably the action 4 for you

[@victor.lequ95]

@@JakeSloan Nice, thank you! ☺️

[@ZoomRenity-zb7ck]

@ZoomRenity-zb7ck 21 seconds ago Can vibrancy and/or saturation be bumped up in the DJI Action 4 for videos and photos?

[@JakeSloan]

It can in post to get vibrant look

[@Sothus2]

Well, i seen alot of reviews. I think ima buy the Action 4, its on a pretty good black friday deal too.

[@JakeSloan]

Nice

[@travisandmissydog]

Thank you for this! Living in the mountains in Montana and doing my off road exploring in the cold, you really helped me narrow things down! Trying to build my channel with a little better content and much better quality than just an iPhone recording.

[@JakeSloan]

Awesome!