DJI Osmo Action 6 Launches Globally With 1/1.1-Inch Sensor and Variable Aperture
After months of leaks and speculation, DJI has officially launched the Osmo Action 6 globally. The announcement follows its initial debut in China a few days earlier, mirroring the company’s recent release pattern with the DJI Neo 2.
Larger 1/1.1-Inch Sensor and the First Variable Aperture in an Action Camera
The sixth-generation Osmo Action introduces one of the most significant upgrades the action camera market has seen in years: an industry-first F/2.0–4.0 variable aperture lens paired with a 1/1.1-inch square-format sensor. The sensor is 40% larger than the one in the Osmo Action 5, and with a faster F/2.0 maximum aperture, low-light performance should see a meaningful improvement.
The mechanical variable aperture allows shooters to control depth of field and exposure without relying on ND filters. DJI says the camera can automatically choose the appropriate aperture based on the shooting scenario.
At F/2.0, the lens gathers twice as much light as the previous model’s fixed F/2.8 aperture. At F/4.0, users gain more depth of field and better control in bright scenes.
The square sensor is also designed with flexibility in mind, enabling seamless switching between horizontal, vertical, and cropped formats. DJI claims the updated sensor delivers up to 13.5 stops of dynamic range.
4K at 120 fps — Still
While the rest of the camera receives major upgrades, DJI has kept the maximum recording mode at 4K 120p, mirroring the previous generation. Competing cameras like the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 now offer 8K30 (albeit without Log support), making this an interesting decision on DJI’s part.
Taking advantage of the square sensor, DJI introduces 4K Free Cut, a shoot-first, crop-later mode that lets creators reframe their footage into 4:3, 16:9, or 9:16 vertical formats during editing. This adds considerable flexibility for social media, YouTube, and multi-platform workflows.
Stabilization, Battery, and Build Upgrades
The Osmo Action 6 features RockSteady 3.0+, along with HorizonBalancing and HorizonSteady modes. All stabilization features are available across resolutions, though some advanced modes have frame rate limitations at higher settings.
The camera uses a 1,950 mAh Li-ion battery, capable of recording up to 240 minutes of 1080p/24fps footage. DJI says the camera is designed to operate reliably from –20°C to 45°C. A full charge takes about 52 minutes with a 30W charger, and an optional 4,900 mAh extended battery is available for longer sessions.
The Osmo Action 6 supports OsmoAudio, allowing wireless connection to two DJI microphone transmitters. It also includes three internal mics that capture stereo audio at 48 kHz 16-bit AAC.
A 1.46-inch front touchscreen and 2.5-inch rear OLED display provide dual-screen operation. The camera is waterproof to 20 meters without a housing, or 60 meters with the optional dive case. The body weighs 149 grams, only 3 grams heavier than the previous generation.
Pricing and Availability
The DJI Osmo Action 6 is available for pre-order for $379 in the Standard Combo from B&H. The Adventure Combo, which includes additional batteries, a battery case, and a selfie stick, is priced at $479.
A variety of optional accessories are also available separately.