GoPro 8 vs DJI Osmo Action: Which is the action camera to beat in 2020?

GoPro has generally been the undisputed king of action cameras, but with the release of the Osmo Action, DJI definitely caught everyone’s attention.

And while the GoPro 8 is superior to the Osmo Action is most categories, DJI put a couple of features/specs in that GoPro has yet to match.

Let’s take a look at the differences between these two action cameras.

The Osmo Action surprisingly has the edge on the newer GoPro 8 in several of the primary specs.

It’s cheaper by $20, has a slightly longer battery life in some modes, and features HDR video recording (though both cameras have the same max bit rate).

However, where the GoPro 8 shines is in its wider array of modes and better-designed user interface.

GoPro’s 10+ years in the action cam market has allowed them to continuously refine the action cam experience — even adding NightLapse Video and an overhauled UI with their latest camera.

In addition, features like the built-in GPS sensor and GoPro Plus allow for beginner users to create unique content while on the go.

Video Quality

Action cameras are primarily used for video and both of these cameras excel at capturing video of whatever activity you like.

Both feature 4K/60fps & 1080/240fps as well as a proprietary video stabilization system that’s a combination of optical and electronic image stabilization.

Looking at the video above, the GoPro 8 is the clear winner with stabilization and color while the Osmo Action edges it out on dynamic range while using its HDR mode.

However, the HDR mode is limited to a max of 4K/30fps with DJI’s RockSteady Stabilization unavailable for use in this mode.

Photo & Timelapse

While the Osmo Actions more traditional approach to manual settings may be appreciated by some professional photographers, the GoPro 8 blows the Osmo Action away with features in these two modes.

The GoPro 8 offers HDR & SmartPhoto, NightPhoto, LiveBurst (kinda like Apple’s Live Photos), and Night Lapse Video — all modes the Osmo Action lacks.

GoPro 8 vs DJI Osmo Action: Which is right for you?

Despite their differences, both cameras can be used to create great content and many people would be happy with either.

The overall choice of which action cam to go with really comes down to each person’s intended use, so take a look at the list of “Pros” and “Cons” below to see which will best fit your needs.

Osmo Action 2 & GoPro 9

It’s safe to assume that GoPro will be releasing its next-generation action camera in the fall of 2020 just as it has done for the past several years.

The GoPro 9 will introduce the upgraded GP2 processor for higher resolution and framerates, possibly even enabling 4K/120fps or 6K video.

Other features GoPro might add are wireless charging and

The future of DJI’s action camera endeavors remains less clear.

While the Osmo Action 2 has been well received, it the only DJI camera that doesn’t incorporate a gimbal which makes it a potential easy choice when trimming the number of products.

If DJI were to release an Osmo Action 2, we probably wouldn’t see it until summer at the earliest — as DJI still needs to update the Osmo Pocket, Ronin S, Mavic 2 Pro and Inspire 2 before then.

Action camera showdown

With GoPro and DJI now competing head-to-head in the action cam space, this next year could be very exciting with each company trying to outdo the other.

Consumers will benefit greatly from this competition in 2020 with improved specs and competitive pricing strategies.

Keep an eye on 360° camera maker Insta360 though, as they could jump into the mix with an upgraded version of their tiny Go camera.