Fuji X-M5 vs. Osmo Pocket 3: A Deep Dive into the Ultimate Travel Camera Showdown

Hey everyone, it's Joe back with another in-depth camera comparison! This time, I'm tackling a question that many creators have been asking: Is it worth investing in a dedicated camera for travel and everyday shooting, or can a high-quality gimbal camera like the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 do the trick?

To get to the bottom of this, I grabbed the Fuji X-M5, a compact mirrorless camera boasting an APS-C sensor and interchangeable lenses, and put it head-to-head against the mighty DJI Osmo Pocket 3, a tiny but powerful camera with a 1-inch sensor and mind-blowing stabilization. Now, here's the thing: the X-M5 is roughly $400 more expensive (if you include a kit lens), and it has that larger sensor, which theoretically translates to superior image quality. But does this difference truly justify the extra cost for casual, everyday shooting?

I also made Youtube Video on this comparison so you can check it out after you read this blog post. 

First Impressions: Surprisingly Close 

One of the first things that struck me was how similar the image quality was between these two cameras in many scenarios. Take this driving shot, for example.

I shot this with both cameras set to 4K 24p, using their standard color profiles and auto white balance, and even underexposed them both by a stop for good measure. The result? The colors, clarity, and sharpness are incredibly close. You might even struggle to tell them apart!

However, when I started pixel-peeping, zooming in, and cropping the footage, the X-M5 undeniably showed less noise and retained more detail. But here's the catch: the Osmo Pocket 3's stabilization was in a league of its own, producing buttery-smooth footage even when I was walking.

This highlights a classic trade-off: the X-M5 offers a potential edge in image quality, while the Osmo Pocket 3 reigns supreme in stabilization. But let's be honest, most of us aren't going to be scrutinizing our footage at 300% magnification. So, for everyday shooting, vlogging, and capturing memories, is that slight difference in image quality really worth the extra $400?

Form Factor: A Tale of Two Cameras 

The Fuji X-M5 has that classic "dedicated camera" feel, with an array of buttons and dials and an articulating touchscreen that allows for customization. However, I wasn't a fan of the grip. It felt a bit awkward to hold, and I often found myself accidentally pressing buttons with my palm. If you're considering the X-M5, I'd strongly recommend investing in a cage to improve the ergonomics and protect the camera.

In stark contrast, the Osmo Pocket 3 is incredibly compact and comfortable to hold. I absolutely love the fact that you can shoot vertically while holding it horizontally – it's perfect for discreetly capturing footage in public or vlogging without drawing too much attention. And of course, that built-in gimbal is an absolute game-changer for achieving incredibly smooth, cinematic footage.

User Experience: Flexibility vs. Simplicity 

Both cameras offer manual exposure controls, giving you creative freedom over your shots. However, the Osmo Pocket 3 has a fixed aperture, while the X-M5, with its interchangeable lenses, allows you to adjust the aperture based on the lens you choose. Speaking of lenses, that's a significant advantage for the X-M5. The ability to swap lenses opens up a world of creative possibilities, from wide-angle landscapes to stunning portraits with beautiful background blur.

The Osmo Pocket 3 does have the Mimo app, which allows for remote control and on-the-go editing. However, I tend to avoid camera apps whenever possible. In my experience, they can be buggy, drain your battery, and sometimes cause more frustration than they're worth. I prefer to rely on the camera's built-in functionality.

One feature I truly appreciate in the Osmo Pocket 3 is its intelligent subject tracking. With a simple tap on the screen, the gimbal locks onto your subject and keeps them perfectly framed and in focus, even as you move around. This is fantastic for creating dynamic shots and smooth, cinematic sequences. 

Unfortunately, the X-M5's autofocus, while decent, just wasn't as reliable or as smooth when it came to subject tracking.

Sound Matters: Audio Advantage 

If you opt for the Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo, you'll get the DJI Mic 2, which is a significant upgrade over the camera's built-in microphones. The DJI Mic 2 delivers excellent audio quality, displays audio levels directly on the screen, and has a built-in receiver, eliminating the need for a separate audio recorder. The X-M5 also displays audio levels, but you'll need to invest in an external microphone for optimal sound.

Image Quality Deep Dive: Low Light, Landscapes, and Log 

To ensure a fair comparison, I primarily used the Viltrox 13mm f/1.4 lens on the X-M5, which closely matches the Osmo Pocket 3's focal length. In low-light conditions, the X-M5 consistently produced cleaner images with less noise. However, the Osmo Pocket 3's stabilization was undeniably superior, resulting in smoother, more cinematic footage. 

I also tested both cameras with Christmas lights, a challenging scenario for any camera. Both performed admirably, capturing the festive atmosphere, although they did exhibit slightly different color casts. 

When it comes to shooting Log footage, the X-M5 offers greater dynamic range, providing more flexibility for color grading and post-production. However, the Osmo Pocket 3's D-Log M is a great option for beginners who want to dip their toes into the world of Log and color grading.

The Final Verdict: Choosing Your Champion 

So, which camera emerges as the winner? Ultimately, it comes down to your individual needs, priorities, and shooting style.

•  Choose the Osmo Pocket 3 if: 
•  You prioritize rock-solid stabilization above all else.
•  You need a compact and user-friendly camera for travel or everyday shooting.
•  You're a beginner or casual shooter who doesn't require interchangeable lenses.

•  Choose the Fuji X-M5 if: 
•  You demand the best possible image quality and low-light performance.
•  You crave the creative flexibility of interchangeable lenses.
•  You're comfortable with more advanced camera controls and settings.

The Osmo Pocket 3 is an exceptional camera for its price. It's perfect for travel vlogging, capturing everyday moments, and creating smooth, cinematic footage without the bulk of a larger camera. However, if you're passionate about filmmaking, want more creative control, and prioritize image quality, the X-M5 is the better long-term investment.