Looking to elevate your mobile filmmaking and capture stunningly smooth footage? The choice between the DJI Osmo Plus and the original DJI Osmo can be a crucial one for creators. Both gimbals offer incredible stabilization, but subtle differences can significantly impact your workflow and the final quality of your shots.
The Osmo Plus introduced enhanced features, aiming to provide more versatility for those who demand a bit more from their handheld camera. Understanding these advancements is key to making an informed decision that aligns with your creative vision and budget.
This comparison dives deep into what sets the DJI Osmo Plus apart from its predecessor, the DJI Osmo. We’ll explore their core functionalities, unique selling points, and help you determine which of these iconic gimbals is the perfect fit for your next project.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | DJI Osmo Plus | Osmo |
|---|---|---|
| Camera Sensor | 1/2.3″ CMOS | 1/2.3″ CMOS |
| Lens Aperture | f/2.8 | f/2.8 |
| Video Resolution | 4K (4096×2160) at 24/25/30fps | 4K (4096×2160) at 24/25/30fps |
| Video Frame Rates | Up to 120fps in 1080p | Up to 120fps in 1080p |
| Still Image Resolution | 12MP | 12MP |
| ISO Range | 100-3200 (Video), 100-6400 (Photo) | 100-3200 (Video), 100-6400 (Photo) |
| Gimbal Stabilization | 3-axis | 3-axis |
| Battery Type | Removable Intelligent Battery | Removable Intelligent Battery |
| Battery Capacity | 980 mAh | 980 mAh |
| Flight Time (with drone attachment) | Approx. 15 minutes | Approx. 15 minutes |
| Weight (Gimbal only) | Approx. 420g | Approx. 420g |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Camera Resolution and Zoom
- Dji Osmo Plus: Features a 12.4MP sensor with a 7x optical zoom (3.5x lossless) and 20x digital zoom. This allows for much greater flexibility in framing shots without sacrificing quality, especially with the lossless zoom. The downside is the slightly lower native resolution compared to some dedicated cameras.
- Osmo: Equipped with a 12MP sensor and a fixed focal length lens (20mm f/2.8). It offers excellent image quality for its class but lacks any zoom capability, requiring the user to physically move the camera for reframing. This can be limiting for certain shooting scenarios.
- Winner: dji osmo plus
Gimbal Stabilization
- Dji Osmo Plus: Utilizes DJI’s renowned 3-axis mechanical gimbal stabilization, providing incredibly smooth footage even during dynamic movements. This is a core strength inherited from the original Osmo. It excels at eliminating handshake and vibrations.
- Osmo: Also features a highly effective 3-axis mechanical gimbal, offering the same professional-grade stabilization as the Osmo Plus. The stabilization performance is virtually identical, ensuring buttery-smooth video.
- Winner: Tie
Video Recording Capabilities
- Dji Osmo Plus: Records video in up to 4K resolution at 30fps and 1080p at up to 120fps for slow-motion. The added zoom capability enhances its versatility for capturing different perspectives within a single take.
- Osmo: Records video in up to 4K resolution at 30fps and 1080p at up to 120fps. It delivers excellent video quality, but the lack of zoom means you’re limited to the fixed field of view for your shots.
- Winner: dji osmo plus
Audio Recording
- Dji Osmo Plus: Features a built-in stereo microphone with adjustable gain control. It also has a 3.5mm audio jack for connecting external microphones, offering improved audio quality for professional use.
- Osmo: Includes a built-in stereo microphone with similar gain control capabilities. It also supports external microphones via a 3.5mm jack, providing flexibility for better sound capture.
- Winner: Tie
Battery Life
- Dji Osmo Plus: Offers approximately 100 minutes of 4K recording on a single charge with its intelligent battery. Battery life is generally good for extended shooting sessions.
- Osmo: Provides a similar battery life, typically around 90-100 minutes of 4K recording. Both devices offer adequate power for most typical shooting scenarios.
- Winner: Tie
Form Factor and Ergonomics
- Dji Osmo Plus: Maintains the signature pistol-grip design with intuitive controls for gimbal movement and camera settings. The integrated camera and gimbal make it a compact all-in-one solution.
- Osmo: Shares the same ergonomic pistol-grip design, making it comfortable to hold and operate for extended periods. The user interface is straightforward and easy to navigate.
- Winner: Tie
Connectivity and Control
- Dji Osmo Plus: Connects wirelessly to a smartphone via the DJI GO app for remote control, live view, and advanced settings. This allows for precise framing and configuration.
- Osmo: Also connects to the DJI GO app for remote operation, monitoring, and access to camera settings. The app provides a comprehensive control suite.
- Winner: Tie
Price and Value
- Dji Osmo Plus: Typically commands a higher price point due to its advanced zoom capabilities and integrated camera system. The added zoom offers significant creative potential, justifying the cost for some users.
- Osmo: Generally more affordable as it lacks the integrated zoom lens. It offers excellent value for those who don’t require zoom and prioritize core stabilization and 4K recording.
- Winner: osmo
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Built-in Zoom Flexibility | DJI Osmo Plus |
| Overall Image Quality (given same sensor) | Tie |
| Portability (slight edge) | Osmo |
| Value for Money | Osmo |
| Feature Set (integrated) | DJI Osmo Plus |
What They Have in Common
- Gimbal Technology: Both devices feature DJI’s renowned 3-axis gimbal stabilization, ensuring incredibly smooth footage even when you’re on the move. This is the core feature that defines the Osmo line.
- Camera Sensor and Lens: They share the same 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor and f/2.8 aperture lens, meaning they capture images and videos with similar quality and low-light performance. The visual output is largely identical in terms of resolution and color science.
- Video and Photo Capabilities: Both can record stunning 4K video at up to 30fps and capture 12MP still photos. They also offer slow-motion recording capabilities, allowing for creative cinematic shots.
- Ergonomics and Handling: The physical design and handling of both the Osmo Plus and the original Osmo are very similar, offering a comfortable grip and intuitive controls for operation.
- Battery System: They utilize the same removable Intelligent Battery, providing a consistent battery life and the ability to easily swap batteries for extended shooting sessions.
Dji Osmo Plus Vs Osmo Buying Guide
Who is the Osmo Plus For?
The DJI Osmo Plus is an excellent choice for content creators, vloggers, and anyone who needs a versatile, handheld gimbal with the added benefit of a built-in zoom lens. Its integrated camera with 7x optical zoom (3.5x lossless optical zoom and 2x digital zoom) offers greater framing flexibility without needing external adapters or lenses. This makes it ideal for capturing interviews, distant subjects, or dynamic action sequences where precise framing is crucial. The Osmo Plus provides a more integrated and self-contained solution for mobile filmmaking. (See Also: Maybelline Exhilarator Vs Pioneer )
Who is the Osmo For?
The original DJI Osmo, while a fantastic gimbal, is best suited for users who prioritize a compact, lightweight, and potentially more budget-friendly option, or those who already own a compatible smartphone or action camera. It excels at delivering smooth, stable footage thanks to its advanced stabilization technology. If you’re happy using your smartphone or a GoPro as your primary camera and want a dedicated stabilization system, the Osmo offers a pure gimbal experience. It’s a great entry point for aspiring videographers looking to elevate their mobile video quality with professional-grade stabilization.
Key Differentiating Features
The most significant difference lies in the camera system. The Osmo Plus boasts an integrated camera with a powerful zoom lens, allowing for focal length adjustments directly on the device. This eliminates the need for external lenses and offers a convenient way to reframe shots on the fly. The original Osmo, on the other hand, relies on attaching a smartphone or a compatible action camera. While this offers flexibility in choosing your camera, it lacks the built-in zoom capability of the Osmo Plus. The Osmo Plus also generally offers a more all-in-one, ready-to-go experience.
Price and Value Proposition
Historically, the DJI Osmo Plus has commanded a higher price point due to its integrated zoom camera. The original Osmo, being an earlier model or designed to work with existing devices, is typically more affordable. When considering value, it depends on your specific needs. If the zoom functionality is a must-have for your creative workflow, the Osmo Plus offers significant value as a single, integrated unit. If you’re on a tighter budget or already have a good smartphone camera, the original Osmo provides exceptional stabilization at a more accessible price, allowing you to invest in other filmmaking accessories. (See Also: Omron Bp5450 Vs Bp7450 )
Who Should Buy What?
Buy DJI Osmo Plus If…
- You need the flexibility of a built-in zoom lens for framing shots without moving your feet.
- You want the convenience of a single, integrated unit for capturing both wide shots and closer details.
- You appreciate the added creative possibilities that a zoom function offers for storytelling and varied perspectives.
Buy Osmo If…
- You are on a tighter budget and the built-in zoom of the Plus isn’t a necessity.
- You prefer a more compact and lighter setup, as the original Osmo is slightly more streamlined without the integrated zoom mechanism.
- You are happy to rely on your own movement and editing to achieve different framing, or plan to attach different cameras in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary advantage of the Osmo Plus over the Osmo?
The primary advantage of the DJI Osmo Plus is its integrated camera with a 7x optical zoom capability. This allows users to zoom in and out seamlessly without needing external lenses or adapters, offering greater framing flexibility and the ability to capture distant subjects clearly. It provides a more all-in-one solution for handheld videography with zoom functionality.
Can I use my smartphone with the Osmo Plus?
No, the DJI Osmo Plus has its own integrated camera and therefore does not support attaching a smartphone. It’s a self-contained unit designed to be used as-is. The original DJI Osmo, however, is designed to hold and operate a compatible smartphone, turning it into a powerful stabilized camera.
Is the Osmo Plus better for vlogging?
The Osmo Plus can be excellent for vlogging, especially if you need the ability to zoom in on yourself or your surroundings without moving the entire unit. The zoom allows for more dynamic shots and framing adjustments mid-recording. However, the original Osmo, when paired with a good smartphone, can also be a fantastic vlogging tool, offering wide-angle shots and excellent stabilization. (See Also: Furnace Rental Vs Purchase )
Which gimbal offers better stabilization?
Both the DJI Osmo Plus and the original DJI Osmo are equipped with DJI’s renowned 3-axis gimbal stabilization technology. They both excel at delivering incredibly smooth and stable footage, effectively canceling out shakes and jitters. The core stabilization performance is very similar between the two models; the primary difference lies in the camera system and its capabilities.
Is the Osmo Plus still relevant today?
While newer gimbals and cameras have emerged, the DJI Osmo Plus remains a relevant and capable tool, particularly for users who value its integrated zoom functionality. For specific applications requiring that unique zooming capability in a handheld, stabilized format without the complexity of separate camera and lens setups, it still holds its own. However, for general smartphone stabilization, newer options might offer more modern features.
Final Verdict
The DJI Osmo Plus stands out with its integrated camera and powerful zoom capabilities, offering unparalleled framing flexibility for handheld shooting. While the original Osmo provides exceptional stabilization for smartphones, the Osmo Plus’s all-in-one design and zoom functionality make it the more versatile and feature-rich option for creators who need to adapt their shots on the fly without external accessories. It’s the superior choice for those seeking integrated zoom in a stabilized gimbal package.
Winner: Dji Osmo Plus