DJI has taken its first steps into the world of 360 cameras with the launch of the DJI Osmo 360. The new camera delivers 8K 360-degree video and extended recording times.
One-inch 360-degree image quality
DJI says that the Osmo 360 features an industry-first square HDR sensor that has been specifically designed for 360-degree video capture. When capturing 360-degree content, the sensor utilizes an imaging area equivalent to a one-inch CMOS sensor with a 4:3 aspect ratio. DJI also says that this design eliminates the unused area of traditional rectangular sensors and results in 25% more sensor utilization. In addition, the sensor offers a high-quality image along with lower power consumption.
Dynamic range
The sensor in the Osmo 360 features large 2.4 μm pixels that are double the industry standard size of 1.2 μm. As a result, the camera can capture more detailed images with less noise. The large pixels also offer better low-light performance and a higher dynamic range. DJI says that the Osmo 360 delivers an impressive 13.5 stops of dynamic range. This should help you to capture cinematic footage more easily. In addition, the camera uses a wide f/1.9 aperture to help when shooting in low light.
8K video
DJI says that the Osmo 360 is the first 360 camera to feature native 8K 30 frames per second (fps) 360-degree panoramic video.
It also supports 8K 50 fps 360-degree recording. Alternatively, if you drop the resolution to 4K, you can record up to 100 fps. You can film in up to 4x slow motion with the Osmo 360 as well. If you want to shoot flat video using a single lens, the camera will record 5K 60 fps videos with a 155-degree field of view or 4K 120 fps videos with an even wider 170-degree field of view. Both 360° and flat video modes support 10-bit color depth, and D-Log M mode is available to boost the dynamic range
HorizonSteady and RockSteady
The Osmo 360 has a range of features to keep your video smooth and stable. With HorizonSteady enabled, your 360-degree footage remains level no matter how you rotate the camera. Alternatively, if you are filming flat video with a single lens, RockSteady 3.0 reduces shakes while retaining the dynamic impact of motion. DJI says that this delivers a more immersive first-person perspective. You can also use DJI Mimo’s GyroFrame to adjust the 360-degree composition using motion control. In addition, Intelligent Tracking makes it possible to lock onto and track people, vehicles, pets and more.
Audio
The DJI Osmo 360 features four built-in microphones that capture stereo audio. It also uses advanced wind noise reduction to keep your sound clean.
Alternatively, you can connect the Osmo 360 directly to two DJI Mic transmitters for high-sample-rate audio without the need for a receiver. In addition, the built-in mic audio backup option means that you can capture ambient sounds at the same time. You can pair the Osmo 360 with Bluetooth headsets like SENA or VIMOTO for wireless audio capture and hands-free voice control on the road as well.
Other features
The Osmo 360 features 105 GB of built-in storage for your videos and photos and has a microSD card slot. You can also use hand gestures to start and stop recording or go hands-free with voice control. The Osmo 360’s battery can record continuously for up to 100 minutes at 8K 30 fps resolution. In addition, you can extend this for another three hours with the optional Osmo 360 Battery Extension Rod. When charging, the Osmo 360 reaches 50% power in only 12 minutes, so you can be back recording in no time at all.
Build
Despite all these features, the Osmo 360 weighs under 6.5 ounces (183 g). With an IP68 rating, it’s also ready for underwater action and can be used up to 32 feet (10 meters) down without a case. In addition, the Osmo 360 can be used in temperatures as low as -20° C (-4° F), so it will be great for skiing and snowboarding videos.
What we think
DJI’s first foray into 360-degree video is an impressive one. The Osmo 360 delivers high 8K 360-degree video with a dynamic range that matches some budget cinema cameras on the market. You can also record 10-bit video in D-Log M mode for greater latitude when color grading your videos. In addition, the 100-minute record time and super-fast charging mean that you can be filming for longer without interruption. The DJI Osmo 360 is going to be a very popular camera. Unfortunately, the only downside is whether the government will allow DJI to sell the camera in the U.S. For the rest of the world, the Osmo 360 is a great option.
Pricing and availability
The DJI Osmo 360 is available to buy around the world now, but currently only on pre-order in the U.S. It is priced at $549 for the Standard Combo.
