Rafomac News, Tech & Trends That MatterDJI has shaken up the pocket camera scene again with the new Osmo Pocket 4P, introducing a dual-camera design and a massive claim of 17 stops of dynamic range. But how does it truly compare to the Pocket 4, and is that premium worth it? Let’s dive into the details.
Two Cameras Pack More Punch Than One
The DJI Osmo Pocket 4P breaks new ground in the popular Pocket series by adding a ‘P’ model, which means a different camera setup on the same gimbal foundation. Notably, it features two cameras: a main 20mm f/2 lens and a new 60mm equivalent f/1.8 with 3x optical zoom. This combination pushes its potential dynamic range to an impressive 17 stops, courtesy of a 1-inch sensor—a step up from the Pocket 4’s 14 stops.
The kit, known as the creator combo, is thoughtfully designed, packing the camera in a weather-resistant “shaving kit” style carry bag, complete with accessories like a microphone, remote control, tripod mount, and lens adapter. Every element fits snugly, balancing compactness with versatility.
How Does 17 Stops of Dynamic Range Play Out?
DJI’s claim of 17 stops mainly shines when capturing scenes with extreme light contrasts. Under bright sunlight with deep shadows, the Pocket 4P preserves more color and detail in shadow areas without sacrificing highlights. For example, fine skin lines and textures appear more vibrant and well-defined compared to the Pocket 4.
Interestingly, using the Pocket 4P’s D-Log 2 feature files only works on the main wide camera, enhancing post-production flexibility. The three-times zoom lens doesn’t support this log profile, which means you get less grading freedom when zooming in. Nonetheless, the added zoom was a game changer in practice—for instance, it captured a coyote at a respectful distance, a shot impossible with the fixed lens Pocket 4.
Portability Meets Professional Features
Although the 4P weighs slightly more at 230 grams compared to 190.5 grams for the Pocket 4, it remains extraordinarily portable. The upgraded ActiveTrack 8.0 now supports the telephoto lens and can track multiple people, elevating user experience. Wireless transfer speeds up to 90MB/s and wired speeds up to 800MB/s ensure quick offloads, keeping pace with the demands of on-the-go content creators.
Battery capacity stays the same at 1545 mAh, underscoring DJI’s efficiency in packing extra power without bulk. The inclusion of an accessory light and a microphone that pairs without a separate receiver further exemplifies DJI’s ecosystem strength.
Which Pocket Cam Makes Sense for You?
If you’re after an all-in-one vlogging camera with superior dynamic range and professional color grading options, the Pocket 4P justifies its premium price. However, if budget and simplicity top your list, the Pocket 4 remains an outstanding compact camera, offering solid quality and ease of use.
Ultimately, DJI’s leap with the 4P echoes smartphone trends—starting with a single lens, moving to two, then three or four—to meet the craving for versatility without sacrificing size. Two excellent pocket cams now sit side by side, giving creators more choice and raising the bar for what tiny cameras can achieve on any adventure.
