The DJI Osmo Action 6 has been announced as DJI’s boldest step yet in the action camera market (see full announcement here: DJI Osmo Action 6 Announced). But many users are asking: is it worth upgrading from the Osmo Action 5 Pro?
If you missed our first showdown, check out: 👉 DJI Osmo Action 6 vs GoPro Hero 13 Black
DJI Osmo Action 6 – $499 at B&H Photo | SmallRig cage kits for DJI Osmo Action 6
Now let’s dive into this generation‑to‑generation comparison.
🎥 Design & Build
- Osmo Action 6: Rugged body, dual screens, 20m waterproofing without case, improved heat management.
- Action 5 Pro: Similar design but limited to 10m waterproofing, slightly smaller front screen.
✅ Verdict: Action 6 improves durability and usability, especially for divers and long recording sessions.
📸 Sensor & Image Quality
- Osmo Action 6: 1/1.1-inch sensor, variable aperture f/2.0–f/4.0, 13.5 stops dynamic range, 10-bit D-Log M.
- Action 5 Pro: 1/1.3-inch sensor, fixed f/2.8 aperture, HDR video, less dynamic range.
✅ Verdict: Action 6’s variable aperture and wider dynamic range give creators more flexibility.
🎬 Video Performance
- Osmo Action 6: 4K 120fps (4:3), 1080p 240fps, SuperNight low-light mode, RockSteady 3.0 stabilization.
- Action 5 Pro: 4K 120fps, 1080p 240fps, HDR video, RockSteady 2.0 stabilization.
✅ Verdict: Both deliver strong frame rates, but Action 6’s low-light mode and upgraded stabilization are clear improvements.
⚡ Battery Life
- Osmo Action 6: Up to 4 hours at 1080p/24fps, fast charging.
- Action 5 Pro: Approx. 2.5 hours at 1080p, slower charging.
✅ Verdict: Action 6 dominates battery life.
📊 Comparison Table
| Feature | DJI Osmo Action 6 | DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor Size | 1/1.1-inch | 1/1.3-inch | Tie |
| Aperture | Variable f/2.0–f/4.0 | Fixed f/2.8 | Action 6 |
| Dynamic Range | 13.5 stops | HDR video | Action 6 |
| Video | 4K 120fps, 1080p 240fps | 4K 120fps, 1080p 240fps | Tie |
| Low-Light | SuperNight mode | HDR | Action 6 |
| Stabilization | RockSteady 3.0 | RockSteady 2.0 | Action 6 |
| Battery Life | Up to 4 hours | ~2.5 hours | Action 6 |
| Waterproofing | 20m | 10m | Action 6 |
| Price | £449 / $499 | £399 / $449 | Action 5 Pro |
🏁 Final Verdict
The DJI Osmo Action 6 is a clear step forward, offering:
- Longer battery life
- Better waterproofing
- Variable aperture for creative control
- Improved stabilization and low-light performance
The Action 5 Pro remains a solid option if budget is tight, but for most creators, the upgrade is worth it.




