Osmo Pocket 3: One Year Later – Still Worth It?

 It's been over a year since the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 hit the scene, and it's safe to say this tiny camera has made a big splash. With its affordable price, impressive image quality, and built-in gimbal, it's become a go-to for creators of all levels.

As a longtime fan of the Osmo Pocket series (I've been rocking them since the original!), I was eager to get my hands on the Pocket 3 and put it through its paces. After a year of shooting everything from hyperlapses to product shots, I'm ready to share my honest thoughts.

You can use the FREE PROJECT FILES for Osmo Pocket 3 so you can dive in and explore for yourself. If you're still on the fence after you read this blog, you can take my free "Which Camera Should I Buy?" quiz! I have created a COURSE on this camera so you can take a deeper dive into the Osmo Pocket 3.

I also made a YOUTUBE VIDEO on this comparison so you can watch it after you read this blog. 

Spoiler alert: I love this little camera. But like any piece of gear, it has its quirks. So, if you're wondering if the Osmo Pocket 3 is right for you, or if you should wait for the Pocket 4, keep reading!

A Year of Adventures

Over the past year, I've really pushed the Pocket 3 to its limits. I've taken it on countless shoots, comparing it to everything from the latest iPhones to GoPros and mirrorless cameras. 

Through it all, the Pocket 3 has been a reliable companion. I haven't experienced any dropped frames, corrupt files, or overheating issues. It's been dropped, used in scorching heat, and pushed to its battery limits, and it's still going strong.

Usability and User Experience

The Pocket 3 is incredibly user-friendly, even for beginners. The larger, more responsive touchscreen is a major upgrade from previous models. However, I have noticed that it can be a bit finicky at times, especially if the screen is smudged. A quick wipe with a microfiber cloth usually does the trick, but it's something to keep in mind.

The compact size is a huge plus. It's so easy to slip into your pocket and take anywhere. And the fact that it can produce such high-quality footage in such a small package is truly remarkable.

One minor gripe is that vertical shooting is limited to 3K resolution. If you want the full 4K, you'll need to shoot horizontally.

Versatility is Key

For me, the biggest draw of the Pocket 3 is its versatility. It allows me to capture shots that would be impossible with larger cameras. I've rigged it up on extension poles, used it for hyperlapses, and even incorporated it into my product photography workflow.

Speaking of hyperlapses, the Pocket 3 makes it incredibly easy to create stunning timelapses and motion lapses. The dedicated Hyperlapse mode is a game-changer, and the results are simply breathtaking.

Exposure and Slow Motion

I've also been impressed with the Pocket 3's ability to handle a variety of lighting conditions. While I do use ND filters in bright sunlight, I prefer to adjust my shutter speed first to maintain a natural look.

The slow-motion capabilities are excellent. Shooting up to 4K 120fps, the Pocket 3 delivers smooth, high-quality slow-motion footage. My only complaint is that you have to switch to a separate slow-motion mode, which can be a bit cumbersome.

Low Light Prowess

Thanks to its 10-bit color depth, the Pocket 3 excels in low-light situations. I've used it as an overhead camera for product shots with fantastic results. As long as your subject is well-lit and you keep the ISO low, the footage is incredibly clean with minimal noise.

The 10-bit color also makes for seamless green screen keying, eliminating the green halos that often plague 8-bit footage.

Vlogging and Color Profiles

The Pocket 3 can even double as a vlogging camera. With face detection and tracking modes, it's easy to keep yourself in focus. I prefer to use the "follow" mode for more control and longer battery life.

The camera offers a variety of color profiles, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. I typically shoot in D-log M for maximum flexibility in post-production.

Photography and the Mimo App

While it's primarily a video camera, the Pocket 3 can also capture impressive still photos. Just don't expect to do any heavy cropping, as the sensor is only 9 megapixels.

The Mimo app is a valuable companion for the Pocket 3. It not only allows you to control the camera remotely but also provides essential exposure tools like zebras and a histogram.

Battery Life and Audio

Battery life is another strong point. In my tests, I was able to shoot for most of the day in 4K 60fps without any issues. And with the fast charging capabilities, you can go from 0 to 100% in just 21 minutes!

The built-in microphones are decent, but for better audio, I recommend using USB-C headphones. The on-screen audio level indicators are a nice touch.

Conclusion: A Pocket Powerhouse

The Osmo Pocket 3 is a truly remarkable camera. It's incredibly compact, versatile, and capable of producing stunning footage. The 10-bit color, 4K 120fps slow motion, and excellent stabilization make it a joy to use.

Just be aware that the high-quality footage can be demanding on your editing system. If you have an older computer, you may need to create proxy files.

If you're looking for a portable, powerful camera that can handle a wide range of shooting scenarios, the Osmo Pocket 3 is an excellent choice. And if you can find it in stock, I highly recommend grabbing the Creator Combo for the extra battery, DJI Mic, and wide-angle lens.

So, is the Osmo Pocket 3 still worth it after a year? Absolutely! It's a fantastic camera that continues to impress me with its capabilities and versatility.