DJI Osmo Mobile 3 vs 2 (2021): Is It Time To Upgrade?

In the world of vlogging, having a smartphone stabilizer is no longer an option but a staple. DJI’s Osmo Mobile series understands this requirement and has reimagined how handheld smartphone stabilizers should be. The DJI Osmo Mobile 2 has long been the go-to gimbal for those looking to capture professional-grade videos using their smartphone. With the DJI Osmo Mobile 3 out, is it finally time to upgrade?

DJI Osmo Mobile 3 vs 2 Comparison Chart

Osmo Mobile Gimbal Combos

Both the DJI Osmo Mobile 3 standard variant and gimbal combo kit come with more accessories than the Mobile 2’s regular kit.

One key difference with DJI’s latest gimbal offering is how the Osmo Mobile 3 kit comes in two options: a standard package, and the combo. Regardless, you’ll be getting more accessories in both variants than from the Mobile 2’s regular kit. Apart from the actual unit and power cable, the latest model comes with a storage pouch, wrist wraps, and 4 anti-slip pads. Its predecessor, on the other hand, only includes a simple styrofoam case in addition to the unit and power cable.

If you want to get the most out of the Mobile 3, consider getting the Gimbal Combo. Included in the kit is an Osmo Grip Tripod to secure your gimbal on any surface, and an Osmo Carrying Case with impact-resistant hard casing. Both the Grip Tripod and Mobile 3 neatly fit into the case.

Design

The DJI Osmo Mobile 3 comes with a foldable grip tripod, making it more portable and compact than the Mobile 2.

As if taking a cue from smartphone technology, the DJI Osmo Mobile 3 boasts of being foldable. Although both gimbals are lightweight and portable, this added design feature of the Mobile 3 makes the unit easier to store and transport—perfect for travel vloggers saving on luggage space.

Getting that perfect frame when shooting is also easier with the Mobile 3. Now, you’ll only need to level the roll axis for balance. The redesigned smartphone holder also allows for small adjustments, and unlike the Mobile 2, doesn’t block your phone’s charging and audio ports. This means you can keep your phone powered up, and have external mics plugged in even while you’re recording.

The Mobile 3 still retains one of its most functional controls inherited from the Mobile 2. Called the “M” button, the control makes it easy to access and switch across different shooting modes. Together with the ergonomic 15° angled handle, it’s clear the Mobile 3 has been designed for single-hand use with comfort and convenience in mind.

Intelligent Features

The Mobile 3 comes with the new DJI Mimo app which harnesses the intelligent features and shooting modes the Osmo Mobile series is known for. 

Much of the Osmo Mobile 2’s intelligent features are retained in the Mobile 3, but with some improvements and added tricks. Tracking, for example, has been upgraded to ActiveTrack 3.0 featuring optimized algorithms that more accurately track subjects and keep them at the center of a frame. For added stability, the hyperlapse option for the Osmo Mobile 3 now includes Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) technology too.

Panoramic imagery, slow-motion footage, long-exposure shots, and timelapse are back in the latest model of the DJI Osmo Mobile as well. Going beyond its predecessor however, the Mobile 3 boasts of additional features, including a sports mode for action-packed sequences, and gesture control so you can start recording or snapping a selfie hands-free.

This is all made possible with the new DJI Mimo App. While the Mobile 2’s DJ GO is a capable application on its own, the Mimo is programmed with an array of intelligent features to help create unique content and capture ultra-steady footage. The new Story Mode, for instance, gives Osmo Mobile 3 users access to 13 fun templates while the Mimo handles the camera movement. After shooting, the app will automatically edit and produce the content for you.

Price and Battery Life

The DJI Osmo Mobile 3 comes at a lower price point compared to the Mobile 2. Both deliver similar battery life performance on a single charge.

Interestingly, the DJI Osmo Mobile 3 comes at equal or even lower the price of the Osmo Mobile 2. And for a modest price increase, the Osmo Mobile 3 Gimbal Combo kit comes with additional value-for-money accessories.

Despite having a smaller battery size, the Mobile 3 matches the Mobile 2 in terms of battery life, delivering up to 15 hours of operating time. The Mobile 2, however, is fully chagred in just 2 hours while the Mobile 3 takes a little longer at 2.5 hours.

Verdict

The DJI Osmo Mobile 3 is the better choice. Packed with new and enhanced features in a portable, folding body, it’s not just an upgrade to the Mobile 2 but a worthy investment. 

With its ergonomic design and lower price point, the DJI Osmo Mobile 3 is clearly the better choice. Packed with new features while enhancing existing ones from its predecessor, the Mobile 3 is a remarkable upgrade from the DJI Osmo Mobile 2. It’s a smart investment and definitely a reliable companion for travel vloggers and content creators.

Although the Mobile 2 is a solid gimbal in its own right, the Mobile 3’s additional intelligent shooting modes and foldable grip tripod are more than enough reasons for long-time users to upgrade. Newcomers to the brand will most likely see it as a staple too. And with the minimal price difference between the two models, plus additional accessories both in the standard and combo kit, the DJI Osmo Mobile 3 is arguably the superior deal.