DJI's newest smartphone stabilizer, the Osmo Mobile 8, emerges as a strategic upgrade following the Osmo Mobile 7P within a year. Positioned as a refinement rather than a complete overhaul, this device addresses certain limitations of its predecessor, offering enhanced functionalities at a competitive price point of $159. The smartphone gimbal market is currently experiencing fierce competition among various brands such as Insta360, Hohem, and Zhiyun, benefiting vloggers with a wider array of choices. The OM7P introduced a multi-function module for tracking subjects, and the OM8 continues this evolution with several valuable advancements.
The Osmo Mobile 8 largely retains the ergonomic and visual characteristics of the OM7P, making the two models easily mistakable. Weighing approximately 370 grams, it features an identical motor style, handle design, button layout, retractable tripod, and battery. Key elements such as the 8.46-inch extendable rod and the magnetic phone clamp are also carried over, giving the initial impression of a minor update.
A significant improvement in the OM8 is the motor's ability to achieve full 360-degree rotation without restrictions, overcoming a major constraint of the previous model. Additionally, a counterweight mounting hole has been incorporated on the roll motor, allowing for better balance when using external lenses, filters, or heavier phone cases. Although counterweights are sold separately by DJI, this feature offers greater flexibility. Adjacent to this, a new USB-C port facilitates pass-through charging for the phone using the gimbal's battery. There's also speculation that this port could accommodate future modules, building on DJI's existing OM Magnetic Quick Release Mount, which offers a MagSafe-compatible attachment for phones.
The OM8's handle now integrates an NFC chip, enabling quicker pairing with compatible smartphones. Notably, DJI leverages this chip for Apple’s DockKit pairing, which provides subject tracking capabilities within Apple's native camera application and other third-party iOS camera apps. Furthermore, the OM8 is designed to work flawlessly with DJI’s wireless microphones, including the Mic 2, Mic 3, and Mic Mini, significantly improving audio quality during video recording, especially in challenging environments.
The setup process for the OM8 remains straightforward. Simply unfold the gimbal arm, and it's ready for pairing. iPhone users benefit from easy access to the DJI Mimo app via the App Store, while Android users need to download the APK from DJI’s website. The gimbal's small display provides essential information such as Bluetooth status, battery life, and current gimbal mode. All four automated modes, including Pan Tilt Follow (PTF), are present. PTF is now unhindered by mechanical limitations, allowing for full 360-degree panning and rolling. While Pan Follow (PF) offers similar panning without tilt or roll, modes like FPV and SpinShot are better suited for manual control due to their limitations in consistently tracking fast-moving subjects.
The OM8 maintains similar stabilization performance to its predecessor, carrying over certain considerations. Its built-in tripod legs, for instance, may not provide adequate stability in windy conditions when used hands-free. Utilizing the standard thread at the bottom with a more robust tripod is recommended for optimal stability. However, the subject tracking excels in busy environments when manually activated via the on-screen face-detection box. This feature effectively locks onto subjects (people, pets) as long as they remain within the frame. DockKit integration on iPhones further enhances tracking by allowing seamless lens switching while maintaining subject focus, although its effectiveness can be limited if the subject frequently exits and re-enters the frame.
The Osmo Mobile 8 appears to be a transitional device, incorporating features that should have been present in the OM7P and laying the groundwork for future innovations. While it heavily relies on the DJI Mimo app and the mounting clamp still poses some limitations regarding phone case thickness, it also hints at what might come next, possibly an Osmo Mobile 8 Pro with enhanced third-party app integration, LOG recording, and remote control capabilities. The OM8's compact and portable design makes it an ideal travel companion, providing an excellent tool for capturing compelling content, provided the smartphone isn't excessively heavy or bulky.
For those seeking alternatives, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 offers a compelling option with its compact size and versatile features, making it popular among YouTubers and journalists. Other notable competitors include the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro, which is similarly priced and also features Apple DockKit functionality. The Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra presents a comparable footprint, includes a separate tracking module, and boasts a small detachable monitor with live view for remote control. For more advanced needs, the Hohem iSteady M7, though double the price, provides superior object detection, a larger 500-gram payload, and a detachable remote with a 1.4-inch touchscreen. Additionally, the Zhiyun Smooth Ultra offers a more budget-friendly option at $99, incorporating a tracking module, a wireless remote with a built-in mic, and an integrated fill light.
The decision to purchase the Osmo Mobile 8 hinges on the user's specific needs for its subtle tweaks and upgrades. Given that the Osmo Mobile 7P shares the same fundamental design and competitors offer similar or more features for comparable or lower prices, the OM8's appeal lies in its tighter integration within the DJI ecosystem, particularly with its microphones. However, the absence of robust remote control functionality may limit its potential for expanding creative angles. Ultimately, its suitability depends on individual workflow priorities and whether the enhancements align with one's content creation goals.
