42 Cons of DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (Review 2024)

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is definitely catching the eye of photographers who appreciate top-notch gear for capturing life’s moments, just like I do.

This compact device packs a punch offering video quality although it does come with its set of drawbacks as most gadgets do. In this blog post, we’ll explore the pros and cons of the Osmo Pocket 3 including its autofocus challenges and its expansive confirmation screen. Let’s get started!

If after reading all these cons, you still want to buy the product, congratulations! You’re making a well-informed decision, and you won’t regret your purchase!

Annoying Confirmation Screen

Alright, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty. That confirmation screen – is it helpful or just plain annoying? When you connect the DJI Mic 2 to the Osmo Pocket 3, BAM! – this confirmation screen takes over. While it’s nice that DJI wants to ensure the mic is connected, this screen hogs way too much space. Imagine trying to check your recordings or adjust settings and this big ol’ screen is in the way. It’s frustrating! I wish there was a way to minimize it, so I can get back to what matters – capturing those unforgettable moments.

Subtle FPV Lock Mode

I was stoked to try out the FPV lock mode. Expectations were high. But… the impact is so subtle, it’s like it’s playing hide-and-seek. For those of us craving features that shout, “I’m here to enhance your experience,” this might be a bummer. I thought it would be a game-changer for my footage, but honestly, it’s barely noticeable.

Auto Power Off Option

The absence of a “never” option for auto power off in previous Osmo Pocket versions was a major oversight. Thankfully, the Pocket 3 fixes this. But this update also shines a light on those old limitations that were pretty annoying. It’s a relief and a step forward in making this device more user-friendly.

Too Quick Screen Timeout

Imagine this: you’re in the middle of a shoot, and the Osmo Pocket 3 screen just decides to turn off after five seconds. Super inconvenient, right? I find myself constantly tapping the screen to keep it awake – and it’s a hassle.

Autofocus Challenges

Even with all the upgrades, the Osmo Pocket 3’s autofocus still has issues. Whether you’re capturing stunning landscapes or showcasing products, the autofocus might miss the mark or shift unexpectedly. Compared to other cameras in this price range, this problem stands out.

Live Streaming Limitations

Streaming – a feature many of us love. The Osmo Pocket 3 has it, but there’s definitely room for improvement. During my streams, I noticed interruptions and quality drops that aren’t as common with other devices. DJI, step up the game!

File Splitting

Recording continuously? Heads up: your video will split once it hits 16GB. This file splitting can be a real pain, especially if you’re aiming for smooth, seamless footage. Managing these files during post-production? Ugh, not fun.

Smart Tracking Limitations

Smart tracking sounds great until it’s not. The Osmo Pocket 3 struggles when the subject moves quickly or if something blocks the camera’s view. Smooth tracking? Not always.

Fixed Aperture Limitation

Here’s a downer: the Osmo Pocket 3 has a fixed aperture of f2. Photographers who love tweaking their settings for the perfect shot might find this limiting. You’ll need ND filters for motion blur and exposure adjustments – more gear, more hassle.

ND Filters Complexity

ND filters are crucial for proper exposure in bright light, but using them can be complex. Adding these steps to your setup process might turn some users off from fully utilizing the Osmo Pocket 3.

Performance in Low Light Conditions

The 1-inch sensor in the Osmo Pocket 3 is better than some cameras, but in low light? It still struggles. You’ll notice noise and detail loss in dim settings, which can be disappointing when you’re shooting for clarity.

Setup Complexity for Beginners

Setting up the Osmo Pocket 3 with ND filters and manual settings can be overwhelming for beginners. If you’re used to simpler camera systems, this learning curve might feel like climbing Everest.

Comparison to iPhone 15 Pro

When stacked against the iPhone 15 Pro, the Osmo Pocket 3 falls short in user-friendliness and versatility. The iPhone offers a seamless experience without the need for a ton of accessories.

Reduced Resolution in Vertical Mode

Switch to vertical mode, and bam – resolution drops from 4K to 3K. That’s a noticeable hit in image quality, especially if you’re creating content for social media. Not ideal.

Low Light Mode Limitations

Low light mode without dlog M? That’s a bummer. You’re stuck recording in the standard picture profile, which isn’t great for those who love the flexibility of log profiles for color grading.

Choppy Autofocus Performance

Autofocus can be choppy and less reliable compared to other cameras. This is especially noticeable in tricky situations where smooth focus shifts are crucial.

High Cost Justification

Let’s talk price – nearly $600 including taxes. Given all the issues, this steep cost might make potential buyers think twice. It’s a lot to ask for a device with these limitations.

Stability Concerns

The gimbal provides stability, sure, but it’s not perfect. It doesn’t meet all requirements and can’t compete with full-frame gimbals. If you’re a serious videographer, you might find it lacking.

File Management Challenges

Managing files on the Osmo Pocket 3 can be tricky. With its storage requirements, dealing with files can be a challenge, especially with limited storage capacity.

Lack of Lens Options

The Osmo Pocket 3 lacks the lens flexibility found in smartphones. If you’re used to having multiple lens options, this could be a real drawback.

Reliability in Lighting Conditions

There are concerns about the Osmo Pocket 3’s reliability in various lighting conditions. It might not always deliver, sometimes failing to power on at critical moments.

Accessory Dependence

Using the Osmo Pocket 3 effectively often means relying on accessories. This can make it less convenient compared to a smartphone that’s always ready to go.

Creator Combo Package Necessity

To get the most out of the Osmo Pocket 3, the Creator Combo package is almost essential. This dependency on accessories can be a hassle and adds to the cost.

Active Track Feature Limitations

The Active Track feature has its limitations. It struggles with quick movements and isn’t as smooth as you’d hope. Capturing dynamic subjects? Not always seamless.

Vertical Mode Limitations

In vertical mode, you’re stuck at 3K resolution and lack support for a dedicated night mode or 120fps. These limitations can be a dealbreaker for creating high-quality vertical videos.

Panoramic Photo Quality Issues

Panoramic shots tend to have poorer color reproduction compared to standard photo modes. This can be frustrating if you rely on them for your work.

Unstable Gimbal Motion

Sometimes, the gimbal captures a swaying motion, noticeable in the image corners. This can be distracting and might need stabilization in post-production.

Wide Angle Adapter Distortion

Using the wide-angle adapter introduces distortion. If you rely on wide-angle shots, this can be a big issue.

Lack of Cloud Storage Option

Unlike some competitors like GoPro, DJI doesn’t offer a cloud storage solution. This could be a big downside for managing your files.

Webcam Compatibility Issues on Mac

When used as a webcam, the Osmo Pocket 3 often shuts down when connected to a Mac, even though it works fine on Windows. This compatibility issue is a headache for Mac users.

Non-Intuitive Menu System

The touchscreen menu system isn’t very user-friendly. It requires you to memorize functions due to a lack of intuitive cues, making navigation a challenge.

Wide Focal Length Limitation for Portraits

The fixed 20mm equivalent lens isn’t ideal for portrait or product photography. If you need different focal lengths, this could be a problem.

Observable Focus Breathing Effects

Focus breathing is noticeable when shifting focus from one object to another, causing significant frame changes. This needs attention during filming.

Frame Rate Limitations in Low Light Mode

Low light video mode is capped at 30fps and boosts ISO to 16,000, reducing detail and increasing noise. This might not meet everyone’s preferences.

Compatibility Challenges with New vs. Old Microphones

New DJI wireless microphones aren’t compatible with older versions that lack certain attachments. This can be frustrating if you have older gear.

Weather Resistance Concerns

The Osmo Pocket 3 isn’t suitable for harsh weather due to lack of weatherproofing. This limits its performance in various shooting scenarios.

Intrusive On-Screen Notifications

Connecting the microphone brings up a persistent on-screen message that stays for 5-10 seconds, taking up a chunk of your display. Super annoying.

Downsides of Digital Zoom Quality

Digital zoom doesn’t match the quality of optical zoom, and the fixed 24mm lens limits adaptability. This affects image quality during zoomed-in shots.

Risks of Using One Camera for Projects

Relying solely on the Osmo Pocket 3 for major projects might not be the best idea due to reliability concerns. Always have a backup to avoid issues.

Focus Accuracy Challenges on a Small Screen

Confirming focus accuracy in bright settings or when using manual focus can be tricky on the small screen. This can pose challenges during shooting.

App Dependence for Manual Focus

Manual focus adjustments rely on the Mimo app, not the camera itself. This can be inconvenient, especially when shooting on the go.

Non-Replaceable Battery Hindrance

The built-in, non-replaceable battery means long shoots might require breaks for recharging, limiting usability for extended sessions.

In Conclusion

The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 packs a punch with its powerful features but comes with its set of quirks and limitations. The high price tag and various concerns might deter some, while others might find the advanced features and portability worth the investment. Weigh the pros and cons carefully. Happy filming!

However, if after reading all these cons, you still want to buy the product, congratulations! You’re making a well-informed decision, and you won’t regret your purchase.

Reference:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rVHZSSwPuHE&pp=ygUYREpJIE9zbW8gUG9ja2V0IDMgcmV2aWV3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yToLtjkhpOI&pp=ygUYREpJIE9zbW8gUG9ja2V0IDMgcmV2aWV3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SUUqvagLZSA&pp=ygUYREpJIE9zbW8gUG9ja2V0IDMgcmV2aWV3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0XXiDtR83s&pp=ygUYREpJIE9zbW8gUG9ja2V0IDMgcmV2aWV3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Nj_tE0xpWI&pp=ygUYREpJIE9zbW8gUG9ja2V0IDMgcmV2aWV3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SqvXwi5W-rk&pp=ygUYREpJIE9zbW8gUG9ja2V0IDMgcmV2aWV3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9zteB6SCKgo&pp=ygUYREpJIE9zbW8gUG9ja2V0IDMgcmV2aWV3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4a0zolofCWM&pp=ygUYREpJIE9zbW8gUG9ja2V0IDMgcmV2aWV3