In the ever-evolving world of action cameras, two formidable contenders have entered the arena: the GoPro 12 and the DJI Action 4. These compact, rugged devices are designed to capture your adventures in stunning detail and clarity. But which one should you choose? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll break down the key features, performance, and pros and cons of each camera to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
- Design and Build Quality
- Thermal Performance
- Time-Lapses and Hyperlapses
- Point of View Shots and Max Lens Mod 2.0
- FPV Drone Footage
- Dynamic Range and GP-Log Testing
- Low-Light Performance
- Resolution Comparisons
- Menus and User Interface
- Battery Life Testing
- Slow Motion
- Conclusions and Recommendations
1. Design and Build Quality
Let’s kick things off by examining the design and build quality of the GoPro 12 and the DJI Action 4. Both cameras share a strikingly similar design to their predecessors, but the GoPro 12 introduces a new speckled blue finish on certain elements, which adds a touch of aesthetic flair. Additionally, it now boasts a tripod screw at the bottom, a thoughtful inclusion for mounting on tripods and base plates.
While the GoPro 12 is undeniably robust, with a design that exudes durability, the DJI Action 4 also holds its ground with a slightly more compact form factor and doors that are notably easier to open. In terms of build quality and design, DJI’s offering edges out slightly due to its compactness and user-friendly design.
However, it’s worth noting that both cameras are solidly built and are unlikely to disappoint in terms of durability.
2. Thermal Performance
Thermal performance is a critical factor, especially if you plan to use your action camera in hot conditions or for extended periods. To test the overheating capabilities of the GoPro 12, GoPro 11, and DJI Action 4, we conducted a head-to-head test in an evening environment with temperatures around 16 degrees Celsius (60 degrees Fahrenheit).
All cameras were set to identical settings: 4K at 60 frames per second with stabilization enabled, and screens set to turn off after one minute. The results were enlightening:
- GoPro 11: 30 minutes before shutting down.
- GoPro 12: 48 minutes before shutting down.
- DJI Action 4: A staggering 80 minutes of continuous operation.
The DJI Action 4 emerges as the clear winner in this category, boasting impressive thermal performance. However, it’s essential to note that real-world scenarios can vary, and factors like direct sunlight may influence these results.
3. Time-Lapses and Hyperlapses
Action cameras are often used for capturing stunning time-lapse and hyperlapse sequences. Both the GoPro 12 and DJI Action 4 offer these features, but they come with some differences.
The GoPro 12 provides versatility in time-lapse options, allowing you to shoot in various aspect ratios, including an 8×7 aspect ratio, which is ideal for creating both vertical and horizontal videos. Additionally, GoPro offers the Max Lens Mod 2, providing a wider field of view, though it’s currently limited to Time Warp mode with stabilization.
In contrast, the DJI Action 4 primarily offers unstabilized time-lapses and lacks the wide array of aspect ratio options provided by the GoPro 12. While the GoPro 12 takes the lead in this category due to its flexibility and the Max Lens Mod 2, the DJI Action 4 may still shine for those preferring a more locked-off, stable look.
4. Point of View Shots and Max Lens Mod 2.0
Action cameras excel at capturing point-of-view (POV) shots, and both the GoPro 12 and DJI Action 4 are up to the task. However, the introduction of the Max Lens Mod 2.0 by GoPro elevates its capabilities.
The Max Lens Mod 2.0 offers an incredibly wide field of view, perfect for POV shots, and supports recording at up to 4K at 60 frames per second. This wider perspective enhances the immersive quality of POV footage, making it an excellent choice for capturing dynamic experiences.
Meanwhile, the DJI Action 4 also performs admirably for POV shots but falls short in terms of offering a comparable lens mod for an even wider field of view. The Max Lens Mod 2.0 gives the GoPro 12 a clear advantage in this category, allowing users to achieve an impressive level of creativity and immersion in their footage.
5. FPV Drone Footage
FPV (First-Person View) drone enthusiasts rely on action cameras to capture breathtaking aerial footage. To assess the capabilities of the GoPro 12 and DJI Action 4 in this context, we tested them on an FPV drone flying over scenic landscapes.
When it comes to FPV footage, both cameras perform exceptionally well, providing smooth and clear visuals. However, there are some nuances to consider. The GoPro 12, with its GP log and extended dynamic range, demonstrates better dynamic range and maintains more detail in highlights compared to the DJI Action 4. This feature can be especially valuable when shooting in challenging lighting conditions.
For FPV enthusiasts, the choice between the two cameras may come down to personal preferences. The GoPro 12’s extended dynamic range offers an advantage, but the DJI Action 4 still delivers impressive results, making it a reliable choice for FPV drone footage.
6. Dynamic Range and GP-Log Testing
Dynamic range, the ability to capture a wide range of light levels from shadows to highlights, is a crucial factor for action cameras. To assess dynamic range and the impact of the GP log, we conducted various tests in different lighting conditions.
In controlled tests, the GoPro 12 consistently displayed superior dynamic range compared to the DJI Action 4. This means that the GoPro 12 retains more detail in both highlights and shadows, resulting in more balanced and visually appealing footage. The introduction of GP log further enhances the GoPro 12’s dynamic range, making it an excellent choice for scenarios with challenging lighting.
However, it’s essential to note that the DJI Action 4 is no slouch. While it may not match the GoPro 12’s dynamic range capabilities, it still produces impressive results, especially in well-lit environments.
For those who prioritize dynamic range in their action camera, the GoPro 12, especially when paired with GP log, is the clear winner. However, the DJI Action 4 remains a strong contender for general use.
7. Low-Light Performance
Low-light performance can significantly impact the quality of your footage, especially in scenarios with limited lighting. Both the GoPro 12 and DJI Action 4 have their strengths and weaknesses in this regard.
The DJI Action 4 shines when it comes to low-light performance. Its larger sensor and advanced noise reduction algorithms make it a reliable choice for shooting in dimly lit environments. Whether you’re capturing nighttime adventures or early morning scenes, the DJI Action 4 delivers clear and noise-free footage.
In contrast, the GoPro 12, while improving upon its predecessor, still lags behind the DJI Action 4 in low-light scenarios. Footage from the GoPro 12 may exhibit more noise in the shadows, which can impact overall image quality.
For those who frequently shoot in low-light conditions, the DJI Action 4 emerges as the preferred option due to its superior low-light performance.
8. Resolution Comparisons
Resolution is a critical aspect of any action camera, as it determines the level of detail in your footage. The GoPro 12 boasts a higher advertised resolution of 5.3K, while the DJI Action 4 tops out at 4K.
However, the reality is more nuanced. In side-by-side comparisons, where we zoomed in by a substantial 800 percent, both cameras exhibited nearly identical levels of detail. This suggests that the difference in advertised resolution may be superficial, as the lens’s limitations come into play.
In practical terms, there’s little to distinguish between the two cameras regarding resolution. The choice between them should not be based solely on resolution but on other factors like overall performance and features.
9. Menus and User Interface
A user-friendly menu and interface are essential for a smooth shooting experience. The GoPro 12 introduces an updated menu layout, which many users find more intuitive and easy to navigate than its predecessor.
The DJI Action 4, on the other hand, boasts a highly regarded menu system that is often praised for its simplicity and accessibility. It makes changing settings and accessing various features a breeze.
In terms of menus and user interface, the DJI Action 4 has a slight edge. It offers an interface that is both user-friendly and efficient, ensuring that users can make adjustments quickly and easily.
10. Battery Life Testing
Battery life is a crucial consideration for action cameras, as it directly impacts how long you can record your adventures. In our real-world battery tests, the GoPro 12 exhibited improved battery life compared to its predecessor, the GoPro 11.
Both cameras started at 100% battery capacity, and after extensive testing, the GoPro 12 still had 66% remaining, while the GoPro 11 had 48% remaining. This represents a substantial upgrade in battery life for the GoPro 12.
However, the DJI Action 4 outperformed both GoPro models, lasting a remarkable 70 minutes under identical test conditions. This impressive battery life sets the DJI Action 4 apart as a long-lasting companion for extended shooting sessions.
11. Slow Motion
Slow-motion capabilities are essential for capturing dramatic and visually stunning footage. Both the GoPro 12 and DJI Action 4 offer slow-motion recording, but there are notable differences to consider.
The GoPro 12 supports slow-motion recording at 2.7K with 120 frames per second, allowing for creative flexibility when editing and cropping footage. Additionally, it offers 240 frames per second at 1080p for even more dramatic slow-motion effects.
The DJI Action 4, while capable of delivering impressive slow-motion results, is limited to 1080p at 240 frames per second. This limitation may be a deciding factor for users who prioritize high-quality slow-motion footage.
In the realm of slow-motion, the GoPro 12 offers a broader range of options and superior resolution, making it the preferred choice for those seeking cinematic slow-motion shots.
12. Conclusions and Recommendations
After a thorough examination of the GoPro 12 and DJI Action 4, it’s clear that both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses. Your choice between them should be based on your specific needs and preferences. Here are some key takeaways to help you decide:
- GoPro 12 Advantages:
- Improved dynamic range with GP log.
- Versatile time-lapse options.
- Impressive slow-motion capabilities.
- Max Lens Mod 2.0 for wider field of view.
- Updated and intuitive menu layout.
- Enhanced battery life compared to the GoPro 11.
- DJI Action 4 Advantages:
- Exceptional thermal performance.
- Superior low-light performance.
- Highly user-friendly menu system.
- Longer battery life than both GoPro models.
- Stabilized footage even without the Max Lens Mod.
Ultimately, if you’re upgrading from an older GoPro model or seeking enhanced dynamic range and versatile time-lapse options, the GoPro 12 is a worthy choice. Additionally, the Max Lens Mod 2.0 provides a significant advantage for point-of-view shots.
On the other hand, if you prioritize thermal performance, low-light capabilities, and extended battery life, the DJI Action 4 emerges as a formidable contender. It excels in scenarios where lighting conditions are challenging or where prolonged recording is required.
In conclusion, both the GoPro 12 and DJI Action 4 are excellent action cameras, each with its unique strengths. Your decision should be guided by your specific filming needs and preferences, ensuring that you capture your adventures with the camera that best suits your style.