DJI's action camera gimbal OSMO is best for capturing 4k videos

There are plenty of action cameras in the market, but to capture high-quality videos you need to ensure your hands do not shake or the camera is mounted on a stable surface or stand. Gimbals allow you to do just that. After revolutionising the drone market, China-based DJI has launched a camera mounted gimbal - the OSMO.

OSMO comes mounted with a camera capable of capturing 4k videos, but does not have a viewfinder. Instead, clamps have been provided on one side to mount a smartphone. It also has a three-axis gimbal along with an ergonomic handle with control buttons. When turned on, OSMO switches on its own Wi-Fi network. The DJI app, which works on both Android and iOS, can be connected to the OSMO Wi-Fi network to access the gimbal features such as switching between still and video recording. Basic settings include white balance, ISO (the level of sensitivity of your camera to available light) and exposure. While capturing videos, you can switch between 4k video and full HD. It also gives a slow motion option for capturing 1080p video at 120fps. For still photography, there are options such as single, multiple, time lapse and panorama. But for capturing still images or videos, you don't have to rely on the phone's touch display, as you can use the buttons on the gimbal.

The highlight of the OSMO is its motorised gimbal functionality. The gimbal is locked in three different places to prevent it from unexpected damages. To start using the camera, one has to unlock it. Mastering the gimbal controls is relatively easy as the thumb automatically rests on the joystick at the rear, and can be easily used to access the shutter button. The joystick helps in controlling the motorised movements of the camera from one side to the other and also helps control the speed. There is a trigger at the front where the forefinger rests. Pressing the button once locks the position for moving the hand while capturing videos. Double clicking it brings the camera to the centre, while tapping it thrice adjusts the camera to click selfies.

The motorised movements are smooth and help in capturing clear and smooth videos. Once you charge the device fully, the battery lasts for approximately 60 minutes of recording. Priced at Rs 62,990, the OSMO does seem slightly expensive, but it is a one-stop solution and does not require any additional equipment.