The action camera market is booming. After years dominated by GoPro, DJI, and Insta360, a new battle is being waged in a highly anticipated segment: compact and affordable models . On one side, the GoPro Lit Hero , a miniature camera designed to democratize 4K. On the other, the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro , more versatile and more ambitious. So, which one should you choose to get started without breaking the bank?
Design and handling: compactness or robustness?
The GoPro Lit Hero impresses with its compactness. Weighing only 93g and boasting a miniature size (5.6 x 4.8 x 3cm), it slips easily into a pocket or attaches almost anywhere thanks to its magnetic mount. Its small rear touchscreen makes it easy to manage its settings, and its integrated front LED is a real plus for illuminating low-light scenes.
The DJI Action 5 Pro , on the other hand, is all about robustness. Heavier ( 145g ), it features two OLED screens (front and rear) that are very practical for framing, especially in selfie or vlog mode. Its square design is designed for extreme adventures, with native waterproofing to 20 meters without a housing (compared to only 5m for the GoPro Lit Hero).
👉 Verdict: The GoPro Lit Hero wins on lightness and simplicity, while the DJI Action 5 Pro wins on robustness and ergonomics.
GoPro Lit Hero
Meet the GoPro Hero , the affordable 4K mini action camera. Compact, lightweight, and easy to use, it’s perfect for your adventures and vlogs.
Buy on AmazonImage and video quality: 4K vs 4K+
The GoPro Lit Hero features a 12MP 1/2.8″ sensor, capable of shooting 4K video at up to 60fps and taking 12MP photos. This is sufficient for vlogging, travel memories, or social media content. However, it doesn’t offer RAW or 10-bit recording, which limits post-production.
The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro , on the other hand, packs a punch with a much larger 1/1.3″ sensor. It shoots 4K at up to 120 fps , offers a dynamic range of 13.5 stops , and captures 40MP photos in RAW . With its “SuperNight” mode, it performs much better in low light, where the GoPro quickly shows its limitations.
👉 Verdict: Clear advantage to the DJI Action 5 Pro , especially if you want detail, fluidity and images usable in advanced editing.
Stabilization and smoothness: HyperSmooth or RockSteady?
Stabilization is a crucial point for an action camera.
- The GoPro Lit Hero features a simplified version of HyperSmooth , which is sufficient for walking, vlogging, or capturing a bike ride. But as soon as the action gets intense (skiing, mountain biking, extreme sports), its limitations become apparent.
- The DJI Action 5 Pro features RockSteady 3.0 technology, along with HorizonBalancing and HorizonSteady modes. The result is impressive smoothness, even when racing or descending quickly, with the horizon remaining perfectly level.
👉 Verdict: For sporty or demanding activities, the DJI has the clear advantage.
Battery life and storage: which camera lasts the longest?
One of the weak points of the GoPro Lit Hero is its battery life. Its non-removable battery allows it to last around 1 hour 40 minutes of continuous recording . This is sufficient for short sessions, but can quickly become limiting during trips or longer shoots.
The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro has a removable 1950 mAh battery, offering up to 240 minutes in 1080p/24fps (ideal conditions). In 4K120 fps, the battery life is obviously lower, but remains significantly better than that of the GoPro. Another advantage: it has 64 GB of internal storage (≈47 GB usable), in addition to the microSD slot. The GoPro, on the other hand, only works with an external microSD card.
👉 Verdict: The DJI Action 5 Pro dominates with its longer-lasting battery and built-in storage.
Creative Features and Modes
The GoPro Lit Hero focuses on simplicity: a 4K60 video mode, a 12MP photo mode, and a front LED. No RAW, no log, and no advanced features. In return, its interface is ultra-simple and accessible to all.
The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is much more versatile. It offers:
- Timelapse and hyperlapse with fine adjustments.
- Slow motion up to 240 fps.
- Pre-recording (up to 5 minutes before pressing REC).
- 10-bit and D-Log M profiles , ideal for cinematic rendering in post-production.
- Intelligent modes (subject tracking, gesture controls, horizon lock).
👉 Verdict: If you’re just looking for easy filming, the GoPro Lit Hero will do the trick. But for creativity and customization, the DJI Action 5 Pro is unbeatable.
Price and value for money
This is where the match gets interesting.
- The GoPro Lit Hero retails for around €270 . For this price, you get a compact, simple, and effective camera for social videos or casual vlogging.
- The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro starts at €479 , almost double the price. But the difference is justified by its larger sensor, more advanced stabilization, and professional features.
👉 Verdict: The GoPro is more affordable, but the DJI is a better investment if you plan to push your creative output.
Verdict: Which one to choose according to your needs?
- Choose the GoPro Lit Hero if…
Looking for a simple, compact, and affordable camera for your memories, vlogs, or social media? It’s ideal for a first step into the world of action cameras without breaking the bank. - Choose the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro if…
You want a more versatile camera that can shoot in 4K120, handle low light, and offer pro stabilization. It’s the perfect option for athletes, demanding content creators, and those who want to go the extra mile.
So, GoPro Hero 5 or DJI Action 5 Pro: Which is right for you?
Ultimately, it all depends on your usage. The GoPro Hero 1 is an affordable entry-level camera designed for simplicity. The DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is a more serious investment, but also a much more complete creative companion.
👉 It’s up to you: do you prefer a simple and fun tool to start with, or a more powerful camera that will follow you on all your adventures?
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