16 Cons of DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro (Review 2024)

When it comes to action cameras, DJI’s Osmo series has made quite a splash in the market. The latest entrant, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro, has been praised for its sleek design and a suite of impressive features. However, not everything is as rosy as the positive reviews suggest. If you’re in the market for a new action camera and tired of hearing only the good stuff, it’s crucial to dive deeper. Let’s explore the less-discussed downsides of the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro to help you make a well-informed decision.

Image Quality Regression: Not Always Getting Better

One of the biggest letdowns with the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is the decline in image quality over time, especially in low-light conditions. Initially, the camera performed admirably, but subsequent firmware updates seem to have taken a toll. Users have noticed that low-light footage now appears blotchy and muddy, with a jittery feel that wasn’t there before. Even after a factory reset, these issues persist, making it hard to rely on the camera for those crucial nighttime or dimly lit shots.

It’s frustrating because firmware updates are supposed to fix bugs and improve performance, not degrade it. This regression means that what was once a standout feature is now a source of disappointment, leaving users questioning the reliability of DJI’s updates.

Mandatory HDR: Creativity Under Siege

High Dynamic Range (HDR) is a fantastic tool for balancing the bright and dark areas of an image, but the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro forces users to keep HDR on all the time. While HDR can enhance certain shots, it often creates unnatural effects, especially in bright sunlight where everything can look over-processed. The inability to disable HDR means you’re stuck with these effects, limiting your ability to achieve a more natural or specific look when needed.

For those who like to have control over their settings, this is a significant drawback. It restricts the camera’s versatility and forces you to work around its limitations rather than tailor the footage to your exact preferences.

Low Light Claims: Falling Short of Expectations

DJI marketed the Osmo Action 5 Pro as a strong performer in low-light scenarios, a claim that initially drew many in. However, in practice, it doesn’t quite live up to the hype. Compared to competitors like the GoPro or Insta360, the low-light performance is lackluster. Footage captured in dim conditions often requires extensive post-processing to look acceptable, which defeats the purpose of having a reliable action camera for spontaneous adventures.

This gap between marketing and reality can be particularly disheartening for users who rely on their cameras for evening shoots or indoor activities, expecting solid performance without the hassle of heavy editing.

Waterproofing Concerns: Potential Risks

Action cameras are expected to be rugged and waterproof, ready to handle any adventure. The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro, however, has raised some red flags regarding its waterproofing. Specifically, the USB-C door has been reported to slightly shift over time. While it might not seem like a big issue initially, this minor shift can compromise the waterproof seal, potentially allowing water to seep in.

For those who take their cameras underwater or use them in harsh environments, this is a worrying flaw. Water damage can ruin your device and your footage, leading to costly repairs or replacements.

The “Pro” Label: More Hype Than Substance

The “Pro” in DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro sets high expectations. Users anticipate advanced features, superior performance, and significant improvements over previous models. Unfortunately, the Osmo Action 5 Pro doesn’t quite deliver on these fronts. It doesn’t offer a clear step up from the Action 4, leaving many feeling that the “Pro” label is more of a marketing gimmick than a reflection of actual enhancements.

When you’re paying a premium for a “Pro” product, you expect tangible benefits. The lack of substantial improvements can lead to disappointment and make you question whether it’s worth the extra cost.

Magnetic Mount Woes: Less Handy Than It Seems

One of the selling points for many action cameras is the ease of mounting them in various positions. The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro’s magnetic mount, however, doesn’t quite hit the mark. Users have found it cumbersome to adjust the camera’s orientation, which can be a hassle when you need to make quick changes on the fly.

In fast-paced environments, where every second counts, having a mount that’s not user-friendly can be a significant inconvenience. It hampers the camera’s practicality, especially for those who need to adapt quickly to different shooting angles.

Limited Customization: Falling Behind the Pack

Customization options are crucial for users who want to tailor their camera settings to specific needs. Compared to competitors like Insta360, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro falls short. It lacks versatile shooting modes, such as a dedicated dashcam mode, which limits its functionality for different scenarios.

This rigidity means that users have to make do with fewer options, potentially missing out on features that could enhance their shooting experience. For those who value flexibility and a wide range of settings, the limited customization can be a dealbreaker.

Small Screen Size: Less Visibility, More Hassles

The size of the action camera’s screen is vital for framing shots accurately and reviewing footage on the go. The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro sports a smaller display compared to some of its competitors, which can make it challenging to compose shots, especially in bright sunlight where screen visibility is already compromised.

A smaller screen also makes navigating through menus and settings less intuitive, adding to the frustration when trying to make quick adjustments. For users who prioritize ease of use and immediate feedback, the limited screen size can detract from the overall experience.

Performance vs. Cost: Not the Pro You Pay For

Despite being marketed as a cost-effective “Pro” option, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro struggles to meet professional-grade expectations. Users have found that, for its price, the camera doesn’t offer the level of performance and reliability that one would expect from a professional device.

This mismatch between cost and performance can leave users feeling like they’re not getting their money’s worth. When a product doesn’t live up to its pricing, it can erode trust and make you hesitant to invest in future DJI products.

Firmware Dependency: Incomplete Software Support

The newer sensor in the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro requires ongoing firmware updates to optimize its performance. However, DJI has yet to fully implement the necessary refinements, leaving the camera somewhat reliant on future updates to reach its full potential.

This dependency means that out of the box, the camera may not perform as expected, and users have to wait for software improvements to address existing issues. For those who need a reliable camera immediately, this can be a significant drawback.

Barrel Distortion: Warping the Footage

Wide-angle lenses are a staple in action cameras, but they often come with the drawback of barrel distortion, where straight lines appear to curve outward at the edges of the frame. The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is no exception, and this distortion is noticeable in wide-angle settings.

While lens correction features exist, they add an extra step to the post-processing workflow or require in-camera adjustments, complicating the shooting process. For users who prioritize image accuracy and minimal distortion, this is a frustrating limitation.

Mic Quality in Noisy Settings: Audio Letdown

Clear audio is just as important as good video quality, especially for vloggers and interviewers. The built-in microphone of the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro falls short in noisy environments. Unlike some competitors that offer advanced voice isolation, the Osmo Action 5 Pro struggles to filter out background noise, resulting in muffled and unclear audio.

This shortfall means that users often have to invest in external audio equipment to achieve acceptable sound quality, adding to the overall cost and complexity of their setup. For those who need reliable audio without extra accessories, this is a significant inconvenience.

Wider Field of View vs. Resolution: A Compromised Balance

The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro boasts a wider field of view (FOV), allowing users to capture more of the scene. However, this comes at the cost of overall resolution. While you get a broader perspective, the footage lacks the detail found in similar cameras like the GoPro.

This trade-off can be particularly frustrating for those who prioritize image clarity and detail over capturing expansive scenes. In scenarios where high resolution is essential, the reduced detail can be a major downside, limiting the camera’s effectiveness for professional or detailed action shots.

Auto Exposure Issues: Inconsistent Lighting

Auto exposure is supposed to make sure your footage is well-lit, but the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro’s system often misses the mark. It tends to prioritize bright areas in the frame, which can lead to the main subject, like your face, being improperly exposed. Unlike some competitors that offer features like face metering or tap-to-expose, DJI’s auto exposure lacks the finesse needed for precise lighting control.

This inconsistency can result in footage where the subject is either too dark or too bright, detracting from the overall quality. For users who rely on consistent lighting, especially in dynamic environments, this is a significant flaw that hampers the camera’s usability.

Horizon Balancing Problems: Shaky Footage

Keeping the horizon level is crucial for professional-looking footage, and the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro includes a Horizon Balancing feature to help with this. However, users have reported that it struggles in dynamic conditions, such as when moving in a vehicle or dealing with uneven hand movements.

The lag in leveling the horizon leads to unsteady and shaky footage, which can be distracting and reduce the overall quality of your videos. For action-packed activities where smooth footage is essential, this feature falls short, making the camera less reliable for capturing steady shots.

Wireless Mic Delay: Sync Issues

For those using DJI’s wireless mic system with the Osmo Action 5 Pro, there’s an unexpected delay of 2-3 seconds before the audio starts recording. This latency can cause synchronization problems between the audio and video, leading to a disjointed viewing experience.

Audio sync issues are not only distracting but also require additional editing to fix, adding unnecessary steps to the post-production process. For content creators who rely on seamless audio integration, this delay is a significant inconvenience that undermines the overall quality of their work.

Conclusion: Look Beyond the Gloss

While the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro has its share of attractive features, it’s essential to look past the shiny surface and consider the underlying issues that could affect your shooting experience. From declining image quality and forced HDR to waterproofing concerns and limited customization, there are several drawbacks that potential buyers need to be aware of.

If you’re someone who values a balanced and realistic view of products before making a purchase, these cons are worth considering. The Osmo Action 5 Pro might still be a good fit for some, but understanding its limitations will help you choose a camera that truly meets your needs without falling into the trap of overly optimistic reviews.

In the end, while DJI continues to innovate in the action camera space, the Osmo Action 5 Pro serves as a reminder that even top brands can miss the mark. By highlighting these hidden drawbacks, we aim to provide a more comprehensive perspective, empowering you to make an informed decision and choose the action camera that aligns best with your specific requirements.

Nevertheless, if you’ve weighed all these drawbacks. Still wish to go with the purchase, congratulations! You’re making a considered decision that you won’t regret.

Reference:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AWF0hcDTx80&pp=ygUVZGppIG9zbW8gYWN0aW9uIDUgcHJv
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-_EN3tQnZxQ&pp=ygUVZGppIG9zbW8gYWN0aW9uIDUgcHJv
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rllTNzskJmM&pp=ygUVZGppIG9zbW8gYWN0aW9uIDUgcHJv
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLu6WQ9Qd9k&pp=ygUVZGppIG9zbW8gYWN0aW9uIDUgcHJv
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yr3xlRJXJY4&pp=ygUVZGppIG9zbW8gYWN0aW9uIDUgcHJv
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svryqEEAm44&pp=ygUVZGppIG9zbW8gYWN0aW9uIDUgcHJv
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pkxcngGjSzU&pp=ygUVZGppIG9zbW8gYWN0aW9uIDUgcHJv