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Earlier this year, my wife and I prepared for a month-long bucket list trip to Australia, the South Pacific, and New Zealand. Journeying through the breathtaking landscapes of Australia, the vibrant marine life of the South Pacific Islands, and the rugged terrains of New Zealand is an experience of a lifetime.
My wife and I invested in 2 DJI Action 4 Camera Adventure Combos to immortalize these moments. The Adventure Combo did include some extras, like 2 extra batteries, a 3-battery multifunctional charger, and an extension handle. Here’s our in-depth review, covering what’s in the box, its ease of use, pros and cons, and how it paired with essential accessories for our trip.
Unboxing the DJI Action 4 Adventure Combo
The DJI Action 4 Adventure Combo is more than just an action camera; it’s a comprehensive package designed for thrill-seekers and content creators alike. The combo includes:
- DJI Action 4 Camera
- Osmo Locking Screw x2
- Osmo Action Anti-Slip Pad x1
- Osmo Action Horizontal-Vertical Protective Frame x1
- Osmo Action Lense Hood x1
- USB Type-C to Type-C cable x1
- Osmo Action Quick-Release adapter mount x1
- Osmo Action Quick-Release adapter mount (mini) x1
- Osmo Action Extreme Battery x3
- Osmo Action Multifunctional Battery Case
- Osmo 1.5m Extension Rod
- Osmo Action Curved Adhesive Base x1
This setup and the accessories we purchased promised versatility and longevity for our extensive travels.
Ease of Use
User-Friendly Interface
The Action 4 boasts a responsive touchscreen interface that’s intuitive even for beginners. Navigating through settings, switching modes, and reviewing footage was a breeze. Setting up multiple custom modes was easy, and switching between them when needed was even easier.
Quick Setup
Mounting the camera on various accessories was straightforward. The quick-release system was far easier and quicker than the GoPro mounting system. This allowed us to switch between handheld shooting and mounting on our gear effortlessly.
DJI Mimo App Integration
The DJI Mimo app enhanced our experience by offering remote control, live previews, and easy sharing options. Editing and uploading content on the go became seamless.
Performance Highlights
Stunning Video Quality
With 4K/120fps capabilities, the Action 4 captured our adventures in crisp detail. The colors were vibrant, and the low-light performance was impressive, especially during sunsets and underwater shoots. We could capture video in 10-bit D-Log M instead of the standard 8-bit, which allowed for more depth of color.
RockSteady Stabilization
The built-in stabilization technology ensured smooth footage, even when we were on bumpy boat rides or hiking uneven trails.
Waterproof Capabilities
While the camera is waterproof up to 11 meters, pairing it with the FitStill Waterproof Case allowed us to dive deeper without worries.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High-Quality Footage: Exceptional video and photo quality in various lighting conditions.
- Ability to Record in 10-bit: Recording in this D-Log format produces better-quality colors.
- Durable Build: Withstood harsh environments, from sandy beaches to rainy hikes.
- Versatile Mounting Options: Compatible with numerous accessories for creative shooting angles.
- Long Battery Life: Extra batteries in the combo kept us powered throughout the day.
Cons
- Audio Limitations: The built-in microphone isn’t ideal for capturing clear audio in noisy environments.
- Set Focal Lenth: The lens is an f2.8 with a max of 155-degree angle
- No Zoom: This camera has no zoom; however, you can record in 4K and crop in.
Essential Accessories
DJI Mic 2 Transmitter
We invested in the DJI Mic 2 Transmitter to tackle the audio shortcomings. It provides wireless, crystal-clear sound quality, noise reduction, and wind protection, essential for our videos and vlogs.
SmallRig Action 4 Camera Cage
The SmallRig Camera Cage offered added protection and multiple mounting points. It allowed the attachment of external lights and microphones and access to the battery door to swap out batteries without needing to remove the cage.
TELESIN 360 Backpack Mount
The TELESIN 360 Backpack Mount was a game-changer for hands-free shooting. It allowed us to capture immersive footage while hiking and taking photos with our DSLR cameras without holding the camera.
FitStill Waterproof Case
The FitStill Waterproof Case ensured the Action 4 stayed dry and safe for our snorkeling adventures, even beyond its standard waterproof depth. This was a MUST to protect our cameras.
Snorkeling with the Action 4
Exploring the Great Barrier Reef was a highlight of our trip. The Action 4, encased in the FitStill waterproof housing, performed exceptionally underwater. The vivid coral reefs and diverse marine life were captured in stunning detail. My wife even captured a reef shark while snorkeling in the South Pacific.
Final Thoughts
The DJI Action 4 Camera in the Adventure Combo proved a worthy investment and a reliable companion for capturing stunning videos of our journey. Its ease of use and high-quality output made documenting our trip enjoyable and hassle-free. While there are minor limitations, the pros significantly outweigh the cons.
Recommendation: For travelers, vloggers, and adventure enthusiasts looking to capture their experiences vividly, the DJI Action 4 is a solid investment. Pairing it with the right accessories enhances its capabilities, ensuring you don’t miss a moment.
Embarking on an adventure? Equip yourself with the DJI Action 4 Adventure Combo and make every memory last a lifetime.