GoPro Hero 12 vs DJI Osmo Action 4: Which Action Camera Wins?
After extensive testing on ski slopes, underwater, and extreme sports, here's my comprehensive comparison of the two best action cameras on the market.
Spec Showdown
GoPro Hero 12 Black
- • Video: 5.3K60 / 4K120
- • Sensor: 1/1.9" 27MP
- • Stabilization: HyperSmooth 6.0
- • Battery: 70 min (5.3K30)
- • Price: $399
DJI Osmo Action 4
- • Video: 4K120 / 1080p240
- • Sensor: 1/1.3" 155° FOV
- • Stabilization: RockSteady 3.0
- • Battery: 160 min (1080p30)
- • Price: $349
Video Quality Testing
The GoPro Hero 12 produces slightly sharper 5.3K footage with better dynamic range in daylight. However, the DJI Osmo Action 4 absolutely crushes it in low light—its larger sensor captures significantly less noise and better detail in dimly lit environments.
Stabilization Comparison
Both cameras offer excellent stabilization. GoPro's HyperSmooth 6.0 provides slightly smoother footage for high-speed action like downhill mountain biking. DJI's RockSteady 3.0 is equally impressive and has less aggressive crop factor, giving you a wider field of view.
Battery Life & Durability
The DJI destroys GoPro in battery life—160 minutes vs 70 minutes in real-world testing. Both cameras survived multiple drops, underwater tests, and freezing temperatures without issues. The GoPro has a slightly more robust accessory ecosystem.
Pros & Cons
GoPro Hero 12 Black
Pros:
- • 5.3K video resolution
- • Best-in-class stabilization
- • Huge accessory ecosystem
- • Better daytime quality
- • Waterproof to 33ft
Cons:
- • Poor battery life
- • More expensive
- • Weaker low-light
- • Subscription for cloud
- • Overheating in 5.3K
DJI Osmo Action 4
Pros:
- • Exceptional low-light
- • 2x+ better battery life
- • Lower price
- • Magnetic mounting
- • Dual OLED screens
Cons:
- • Max 4K (no 5.3K)
- • Fewer accessories
- • Software can be buggy
- • No GPS
- • Waterproof to 59ft
Which Should You Buy?
Choose GoPro Hero 12 if you need 5.3K resolution, want the largest accessory ecosystem, or already own GoPro mounts and batteries.
Choose DJI Osmo Action 4 if you film in low light, need better battery life, or want to save $50 without sacrificing quality.
Final Verdict
The DJI Osmo Action 4 offers better value with superior low-light performance and 2x the battery life at a lower price. However, the GoPro Hero 12 is still the king if you need 5.3K, already invested in the ecosystem, or want the absolute best stabilization.
My Rating: GoPro 8.8/10 | DJI 9.1/10