5 stars for the EPIC service of DJI (after this, I rank it higher than GoPro) and I summarize:
I had a condensation problem inside the lens and sent it for repair.
Instead of replacing the lens and sending it back to me or replacing it with refurbished, they replaced it with a brand new one (the standard version), sealed in its box, so now I have double the 4 components that the standard version contains (see below)!
A big shout out to DHL as well, which made the Hungary - Greece delivery in 3 working days and delivered the package 1 day before the scheduled date!
I bought the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 (OP3) to replace the excellent DJI Osmo Pocket 2 (OP2) for the night videos and walks I upload to my channel (Traveller Chris Channel): https://www.youtube.com/@TravellerChris
My impressions so far are as follows:
Build/Dimensions/Battery:
-In terms of build quality, it feels very premium and gives me the impression that it is a bit sturdier than the previous one, while it also has grooves on the back for even better grip.
-In dimensions, it is thicker than the OP2, which will be more comfortable for those with larger hands.
-The OP2 had a very good battery, and I easily got 1 hour of use at 4K25, but the OP3 takes it a step further, and I estimate it lasts comfortably 1.5 hours, while it now has an extra battery that can be connected to the bottom to charge the camera while shooting video.
WARNING:
-It is a gimbal with a camera at the end, not an action camera, and it does not withstand intense vibrations and is not waterproof, so it is not intended for use in extreme sports and in conditions of high humidity.
-Also, if there is something that worries me, it is the rotating screen, but fortunately, it can be activated without rotating the screen.
Handling/Connectivity:
-I find its handling very easy, and the combination with the larger screen, physical button, and joystick makes video recording even easier. For example, you can now move the camera up/down with the joystick while simultaneously zooming via the screen, or vice versa.
-It can connect to a mobile phone via the DJI Mimo app (scan the QR that appears on the OP3 screen) for remote control without the need for any extra accessory (see Do-It-All Handle of the OP2).
Video/Photos/Stabilization:
-1080, 2.7K, and up to 4K@60 from the Video option, up to 4K@120 from the Slow Motion option, capability for Timelapse, Motionlapse, Hyperlapse from video, and regular or panoramic photos.
-In low-light video, the OP3 does an excellent job and cannot be compared to any of DJI's handheld cameras, GoPro, or Insta360 (I will upload samples soon).
-Its photos are very good, especially the panoramas, but with a 9MP sensor, it is not its strongest point.
-Stabilization is done via gimbal, meaning it is mechanical and not digital, so the videos always come out clear and without flicker and artifacts due to glitches in the software, especially in night shots. This difference is even more noticeable in night videos.
Sound:
The best I have ever heard, especially when connected to the DJI Mic 2 Transmitter, will elevate interviews and vlogging to another level.
The DJI Mic 2 Transmitter connects automatically to the OP3 as soon as it is turned on, but it also has 8GB of internal memory and can be used as a separate microphone.
Packaging accessories:
-The basic version comes with a protective cap (which has magnetic contacts for 1 lens filter and 1 Wide Angle Lens and a slot for the DJI Mic 2 Transmitter), 1 extension with a 1/4" socket for a tripod, a hand strap, and a USB-C to USB-C cable.
-The Creator Combo has all of the above and also: a 2nd extension with a 1/4" socket for a tripod that is also a battery, a mini tripod (better than the OP2, but less discreet), a carrying bag, a Wide Angle Lens, and of course, the DJI Mic 2 Transmitter along with a magnet and deadcat.
Who it is intended for:
vloggers, journalists, content creators, casual travelers, and generally anyone who wants high-quality video/stabilization/sound at a good price and does not expose the camera to hazardous conditions such as strong vibrations, water, humidity, etc.
Who it is not intended for:
careless individuals and those passionate about extreme sports. Sorry guys, the little device is extremely sensitive, and you should go for a GoPro or DJI Osmo Action.
Negatives:
-It shuts down from overheating, and this has nothing to do with the build quality, but with the new EU legislation monstrosity that forces manufacturers to make cameras intended for the EU shut down earlier (at 48 degrees Celsius). Fortunately, I think I found a solution that I am currently testing, which seems to work for the Osmo Action as well, so if you want to learn more, subscribe to my channel and I will soon upload the relevant video: https://www.youtube.com/@TravellerChris
-The initial selling price is higher than that of the OP2 for both the basic package and the Creator Combo.
-The battery is, once again, integrated into the camera, and DJI charges extra for the grip/battery.
-I lost 1 star because in 2 out of my 5 tests, it accumulated moisture inside the lens, resulting in blurry video and photos, and it shut down from "overheating" within 12 minutes inside the car while I had it in the cold air. At the time of writing these lines, the camera has gone for servicing at DJI in Europe (Hungary), hoping to have it back in my hands before Christmas so I can do a Christmas video walk!
Photo 1 and 2:
Snapshot from 4K@25 video in a fairly dark spot with automatic settings.
Photo 3:
Night snapshot from 4K@25 video in a very dark spot, with the camera in night mode with automatic settings.
Photo 4:
Snapshot from 4K@25 video with automatic settings where the moisture in the lens is visible.
Final impressions:
For now, I am doing the last comparisons between OP2 and OP3 before I sell the OP2, and I am so thrilled with it that I consider it a worthy replacement for the OP2. It does everything better, and the larger size is truly welcome.
I'm thinking of uploading a presentation video on my channel (if I manage before DJI releases the next OP), so if you want, please subscribe to support me and leave a comment on one of my videos to expedite the creation of the review:
https://www.youtube.com/@TravellerChris
Evening video in Christmas Ioannina:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F80E646wBgA
Evening video in Christmas Sparta:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uwS9MmKvk2Q
Evening video in Paramythia Thesprotia with settings for regular video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hs6Lj7JuqkY
Morning video in Ioannina with settings for regular video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=De7mPD6SYjY
I shot them in 4K@25 resolution in regular video mode (that is, not in Low Light mode) with automatic settings.