Best Vlogging Camera – DJI Action 5 Pro or DJI Pocket 3

Good day, folks! Shawn here from Air Photography. Spring has arrived in Ontario, and I’m out for a walk. I thought I’d take this opportunity to answer a few questions I’ve been asked about vlogging with DJI equipment. Over the past year, since the DJI Pocket 3, Action 4, and Action 5 were released, I’ve been asked several times: Which one is best vlogging camera? The answer is pretty simple: both cameras are excellent choices for vlogging, and it boils down to specific features that might appeal more to some users.

Why I Prefer the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro

For me, when I’m out vlogging, I prefer using an action camera. Right now, I’m filming on the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro. I’ve got the DJI Mic 2 for audio, paired via Bluetooth to the camera. Don’t get me wrong—the Pocket 3 is an excellent vlogging camera too. But I like the Action 5 Pro for its simplicity. With the Pocket 3, I find it a bit awkward to hold, even with the extended handle. It has a fairly narrow field of view, and even with a wide-angle lens, you have to stretch your arm out in front of you. Still, I find it’s not wide enough. I want a wider shot with more of my body in the frame, so I end up attaching it to an extension pole.

Challenges with the DJI Pocket 3 on an Extension Pole

That’s where the problem lies for me. When I add an extension pole to the DJI Pocket 3 for a wider shot, it’s hard to angle it properly because of the gimbal. The gimbal has limits to how much it can rotate or tilt. If you use an adapter to attach it to a pole, you still have to hold it straight out in front of you. The gimbal can’t tilt enough to frame you comfortably, and you can’t easily see the screen to ensure everything is lined up.

Stability and Durability in Uneven Terrain

Another reason I prefer an action camera is stability. In environments like this with uneven terrain, the DJI Action 5 Pro keeps the footage nice and stable. The Pocket 3, with its mechanical gimbal, sometimes shows more movement when walking on rough ground. You can use features like head tracking to reduce this a bit, but I still notice extra motion. With the Action 5, I just point it in my general direction, and I know I’ll get stable, well-framed footage.

Durability is another factor. Both cameras are well-built, but the Pocket 3’s mechanical gimbal makes it more fragile. If you drop it, the gimbal could get damaged. The Action 5 or Action 4, on the other hand, is tougher and can handle impacts. Plus, you can use frames, cases, or even waterproof housing to protect it, including the screen. This makes it easier to safeguard in unpredictable environments.

Video Quality and Low-Light Performance

When it comes to video quality, the Pocket 3 probably has a slight edge. Its 1-inch sensor delivers better low-light footage. Action cameras rely on electronic image stabilization, which can struggle in low light, while the Pocket 3’s mechanical gimbal handles it well. So, if you’re vlogging in dimly lit interiors or at night, the Pocket 3 might be the better choice for superior low-light performance.

Active Track and Framing Features

The Pocket 3 offers Active Track, letting you set it down and have it follow you. The Action 5 Pro introduced a similar feature this year. As long as it’s pointed in your direction, it keeps you centered by cropping the video to 2.7K resolution. For social media vlogging, that’s more than enough, and it works well to keep you framed without constant adjustments.

Audio and Vertical Filming Options

Both the Pocket 3 and Action 5 offer easy audio solutions. I’m using the DJI Mic 2 with the Action 5 Pro via Bluetooth, and you can connect two mics to either camera. They both support vertical filming for social media. With the Action 5 Pro, you use the included case and rotate the camera—it’s simple. In vertical mode, the Action 5 and Action 4 can shoot in full 4K resolution, while the Pocket 3 maxes out at 3K. For social media, this isn’t a big deal, but it’s worth noting.

My Preference for Vlogging

Personally, I prefer the DJI Action 5 Pro over the Pocket 3 for vlogging, especially when I’m moving and walking. The biggest reason is how it handles on an extension pole—it’s just simpler. With the Pocket 3, attaching a pole makes it hard to see the screen, and angling it up can feel top-heavy. For stationary shots on a tripod, I do like the Pocket 3. But for this type of active vlogging, the Action 5 Pro wins for me. I’m happy with its quality and ease of use.

Final Thoughts on Best Vlogging Camera

So, folks, those are my thoughts on vlogging with the DJI Action 5 Pro and Pocket 3. Depending on how you’ll use it, what you’re filming, and the environment, one might suit you better than the other. For me, the DJI Action 5 Pro is my go-to. Hopefully, you found this helpful. Thanks for watching, and I’ll see you in the next one!