In a bold move that signals its growing ambitions in immersive imaging, DJI has officially launched the Osmo 360—a panoramic sports camera designed to redefine how creators capture dynamic environments. With native 8K recording at 50 frames per second, advanced low-light capabilities, and a compact, mount-friendly design, the Osmo 360 positions itself as a serious contender in the 360-degree camera market, directly challenging the dominance of Insta360’s X series.
Unveiled first in Taiwan, the Osmo 360 reflects DJI’s commitment to pushing boundaries in both hardware and user experience. From its square sensor to its modular battery system, every detail of the camera has been engineered to meet the demands of modern content creators, athletes, and outdoor enthusiasts.
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| Image credit: Future |
A Sensor That Changes the Game
At the heart of the Osmo 360 is a newly developed 1/1.1-inch square CMOS sensor. This design offers approximately 25% more effective imaging area than traditional rectangular sensors, allowing for improved light capture, better dynamic range, and more accurate color reproduction. The square format also enhances the stitching process in panoramic video, reducing distortion and improving overall image consistency.
The camera’s ability to record in 8K at 50fps using the 10-bit D-LogM format is a major leap forward. This not only allows for cinematic-quality footage but also provides greater flexibility in post-production. The 10-bit color depth ensures smoother gradients and more nuanced tones, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
Low-light performance is another standout feature. DJI has optimized the Osmo 360 to minimize noise, preserve shadow detail, and maintain stability even in dim environments. For creators who often shoot at dawn, dusk, or indoors, this enhancement is a welcome upgrade.
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Compact, Lightweight, and Built for Motion
Weighing just 183 grams and standing 83mm tall, the Osmo 360 is lighter and shorter than its closest rival, the Insta360 X5. This compact form factor makes it ideal for mounting on helmets, handlebars, or drones, where weight and vibration control are critical. The reduced size also improves portability, allowing users to carry the camera effortlessly during travel or sports activities.
The camera includes 105GB of internal storage, which can be expanded via microSD card. This dual-storage approach ensures that users have ample space for high-resolution footage while maintaining flexibility for longer shoots.
Power That Keeps Up With Adventure
Battery compatibility is another thoughtful feature. The Osmo 360 uses the same batteries as DJI’s Osmo Action 4 Pro and 5 Pro, streamlining power management for users who already own DJI gear. A single battery provides up to 120 minutes of recording at 8K 30fps, while an external battery stick can extend usage to 180 minutes—ideal for long hikes, bike rides, or extended filming sessions.
This modular power system reflects DJI’s understanding of real-world shooting conditions, where flexibility and endurance are key.
Boost Video Mode and Stabilization Technologies
For action-oriented users, the Osmo 360 introduces “Boost Video” mode, which enables 4K recording at 120fps using a single lens. This feature emulates the dynamic shooting style popularized by GoPro, allowing for dramatic slow-motion footage and high-speed capture.
Stabilization is handled by DJI’s HorizonSteady and RockSteady technologies, which work together to deliver smooth, natural footage. While performance is generally impressive, some limitations remain in low-light scenarios, where stabilization may falter slightly. Nonetheless, for most daytime and well-lit environments, the results are fluid and cinematic.
Audio and Connectivity: A Mixed Bag
On the audio front, the Osmo 360 supports dual-channel recording via DJI Mic 2 and Mic Mini. Bluetooth connectivity is available for select headphones, including Samsung Galaxy Buds Pro 2, though output is currently limited to mono. While this setup is sufficient for casual use, professional creators may find the audio options somewhat restrictive.
Future firmware updates could potentially expand compatibility and improve stereo recording, but for now, the audio system is functional, if not groundbreaking.
Editing and Workflow: Room for Growth
DJI Studio, the brand’s new editing platform, allows users to export footage in both 360-degree and 3D formats. It also supports imports into industry-standard software like Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve. However, the current version of DJI Studio lacks some of the advanced features found in Insta360 Studio, such as AI-assisted reframing and deep tracking tools.
For general users, DJI Studio offers a clean and intuitive interface. But for professionals seeking granular control and advanced editing capabilities, the platform may feel underdeveloped. DJI has hinted at future updates, which could close the gap and make the Osmo 360 a more complete solution for post-production.
Competitive Positioning and Market Impact
The Osmo 360 enters a competitive market dominated by Insta360, which currently holds a 67% share of the consumer 360-degree camera segment, according to Frost & Sullivan. DJI, meanwhile, commands 70% of the global consumer drone market, as reported by Berg Insight. With the Osmo 360, DJI is clearly signaling its intent to expand beyond aerial imaging and into immersive ground-based content creation.
The camera’s combination of high-resolution capture, compact design, and modular power makes it a compelling alternative to the Insta360 X5. While Insta360 still leads in software and editing tools, DJI’s hardware innovations and brand reputation could sway users looking for a more integrated ecosystem.
Final Thoughts
The DJI Osmo 360 is a bold and thoughtful entry into the panoramic sports camera market. With its 8K 50fps recording, square sensor, and compact design, it delivers impressive image quality and usability. While its editing software still trails behind competitors, the camera’s hardware and real-world performance make it a strong choice for creators seeking immersive, high-resolution footage.
As DJI continues to refine its software and expand its accessory ecosystem, the Osmo 360 could become a cornerstone product in the brand’s growing lineup of ground-based imaging tools. For now, it stands as a powerful, portable, and visually stunning option for anyone looking to capture the world in full perspective.
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