First impressions:
The DJI Osmo Action 5 retains a compact, rugged design similar to previous DJI models but introduces subtle upgrades that cater specifically to divers. The magnetic base and mounting system simplify attachment to various setups, while the real-time depth sensor is a rare and useful addition.
Test results: Real-world diving performance
The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is undoubtedly the new kid on the block when it comes to underwater action cameras, so we set out to find out how it holds up in real-world diving situations. We tested it in both clear, tropical waters and murky green waters, with the following results.
Color correction
In terms of color correction, the DJI Osmo Action 5 has a little sensor that sits inside the “O” of the logo. This built-in color temperature sensor is constantly reading the scene and adjusting accordingly. As you can see in the clip below, the DJI does change its colors depending on the main subject and/or surroundings.
Whether you like this look or not is a personal preference. Any edits we have made to the clips were completed with a one-button push of an underwater filter, Vivid Underwater, which is available in the app.
Highlights and shadows
Unlike the GoPro HERO13, which tends to lean toward cooler tones, the Osmo Action 5 corrects for underwater color loss. This creates the over-contrast and over-saturation.
This means that divers will find the clips to have darker blacks and brighter whites, which is most noticeable with darker wetsuits, BCDs, and white tropical sand.
However, in these two clips, there is a lack of detail in the shadows and over-exposure in the white sand, which we did not like. Some users may find the automatic saturation excessive, requiring manual adjustments in post-production.
Depth sensor and diving performance
A major selling point of the Osmo Action 5 is its built-in depth sensor, which displays real-time dive depth on-screen. However, this feature is disabled once the camera is inside a housing, meaning divers going beyond 66 feet (20m) will have to manually input depth data post-dive.
Depth rating
We did a pressure-test on our DJI Osmo Action 5 to 65 feet (20 m) and it continued to film and work with no issues. In fact, the camera has its own depth sensor, so it will beep and flash an on-screen warning that you have reached the maximum depth.
Accessories
The DJI Osmo Action 5 is one of the few action cameras that already comes equipped with several diver-friendly features. However, there are a few extra essentials that we think will enhance your experience. Most obviously would be a DJI dive case, which allows you to take the camera beyond 66 feet (20m).
Dive case—do you need it?
→ Waterproof to 66 feet (20 m) without a dive case. Since most entry-level scuba diving certifications are to around 60 feet (18 m), this means the Osmo is the perfect no-case-required underwater action companion.
We could assume—we didn’t test this—another benefit for the deeper no-case depth rating, is that if the housing did leak at 91 feet (28 m), for example, you could probably make it to 66 feet and safely end your dive with your Osmo Action 5 intact.
Considering most other action cameras are depth rated to only 33 to 40 feet (10 to 12 m), the fact that DJI essentially doubles it is very impressive.→ Diving deeper than 66 feet? Use the available dive case, which is rated to an industry standard of 196 feet (60 m).
We could assume—we didn’t test this—another benefit for the deeper no-case depth rating, is that if the housing did leak at 91 feet (28 m), for example, you could probably make it to 66 feet and safely end your dive with your Osmo Action 5 intact.
SD card
→ Internal storage of 48GB. With that much storage, divers can use the DJI straight out of the box and don’t even need an SD card to film underwater.
Remember—any footage from the internal storage can either be accessed via the Mimo app or you can plug the Osmo Action 5 directly into your laptop with the USB-C cable provided.
→ 48GB will give you approximately an hour of 4K filming, a pretty decent amount of space, and plenty for a day of diving.
→ The internal storage can also be used as overflow so, if your SD card does fill up, you have a back up.
Remember—any footage from the internal storage can either be accessed via the Mimo app or you can plug the Osmo Action 5 directly into your laptop with the USB-C cable provided.
Price/Quality Ratio
At $50 less than the GoPro HERO13 Black, the DJI Osmo Action 5 offers strong value for divers who don’t need 5.3K resolution or an extensive accessory ecosystem. The inclusion of internal storage, real-time depth tracking, and deeper waterproofing makes it a compelling option for underwater filming.
Do we recommend the DJI Osmo Action 5?
For divers, yes! If you’re looking for an action camera specifically optimized for scuba diving, the DJI Osmo Action 5 is one of the best choices on the market. While it lacks 5.3K resolution and has fewer accessories than GoPro, it compensates with better waterproofing, built-in depth tracking, and vibrant underwater color correction.
If you need a versatile multi-sport action camera, GoPro’s ecosystem is stronger. For divers who want a ready-to-use underwater action camera without extra accessories, the Osmo Action 5 is a fantastic investment.
Specs & Features
| Dimensions | 2.8 x 1.7 x 1.3 inches (70.5 x 44.2 x 32.8 mm) |
|---|---|
| Screen size | Front: 1.46-inch (live preview); Rear: 2.5-inch (touch) |
| Waterproof rating | No case: 66 feet (20 m); with case: 196 feet (60 m) |
| Lens | FOV: 155°; aperture: f/2.8 |
| Photo resolution | 40 MP |
| Video resolution | 4K (16:9) @24/25/30/48/50/60/100/120fps |
| Storage | 48GB internal storage and an additional SD card slot |
| Charging | USB-C cable |
Take a moment to look at this.
