The battle for vloggers' backpack space just got real. Insta360's new Luna Ultra and DJI's Osmo Pocket 4 are both vying to be the ultimate creator camera, but they take radically different approaches.
CNET's hands-on comparison of the Insta360 Luna Ultra and DJI Osmo Pocket 4 offers a detailed look at two of the most anticipated action-camera releases of 2025. The Luna Ultra, with its detachable display, targets YouTubers who need flexible framing, while the Osmo Pocket 4 doubles down on the compact gimbal form factor that made its predecessor a hit. Understanding these differences is crucial for creators deciding where to invest.
The broader context is a heated race for the creator-economy crown. Insta360, known for its 360-degree cameras, is pushing modularity; DJI, the drone and gimbal giant, is refining its all-in-one pocket solution. Both companies are responding to the same demand: high-quality video that doesn't require a crew. The Luna Ultra vs Osmo Pocket 4 comparison comes as smartphone cameras plateau and dedicated creator gear becomes more specialised.
In testing, the Insta360 Luna Ultra impressed with its magnetic detachable screen, allowing for front-facing selfie setups that the Osmo Pocket 4 cannot match without an add-on. The Osmo Pocket 4, however, retained its hallmark ActiveTrack 7.0 stabilization and added a larger 1-inch sensor, besting the Luna Ultra's slightly smaller sensor in low-light tests. Both cameras shoot 4K at 120fps, but the Luna Ultra's modularity allows for future upgrades like interchangeable lenses—a first in this category. Pricing is a key differentiator: the Luna Ultra starts at $499, while the Osmo Pocket 4 is $599, putting price pressure on DJI.
Industry observers note that this Luna Ultra vs Osmo Pocket 4 showdown signals a shift. "Creators want cameras that adapt to their workflow, not the other way around," says tech analyst Ming Zhao. The modular design of the Luna Ultra could open up an ecosystem of accessories, similar to what GoPro has attempted. Meanwhile, DJI's strength lies in polished software and a unified experience. The winner may not be a single camera but rather the approach that better serves the fastest-growing segment: solo content creators who want cinema-quality footage without bulk.
Looking ahead, consumers can expect both platforms to expand with new modules and firmware updates. A potential Insta360 Luna Ultra 360-degree module is rumoured, and DJI may respond with an improved Osmo Pocket Pro later this year. For now, the decision hinges on whether you prioritise flexibility (pick the Luna Ultra) or out-of-box simplicity (choose the Osmo Pocket 4). The comparison provides the clarity creators need to make a confident purchase.
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I've Used Insta360's Luna Ultra and DJI's Osmo Pocket 4. Here's How They Compare
With its detachable display, the Insta360 Luna Ultra is exciting for YouTubers. Here's how it compares to the Osmo Pocket 4.
Andrew Lanxon
CNET
3 min read
5/10
Key Takeaways
- Insta360 Luna Ultra features a magnetic detachable display, enabling flip-out selfie framing that the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 does not natively support.
- The DJI Osmo Pocket 4 boasts a 1-inch CMOS sensor, delivering superior low-light performance compared to the Luna Ultra's 0.95-inch sensor.
- Both cameras offer 4K video at 120fps for slow-motion, but only the Luna Ultra supports future lens attachments via its modular bayonet mount.
- Pricing: Insta360 Luna Ultra starts at $499, undercutting the DJI Osmo Pocket 4's $599 MSRP by $100.
- ActiveTrack 7.0 on the Osmo Pocket 4 provides best-in-class subject tracking, while the Luna Ultra relies on Insta360's own DeepTrack 3.0 AI for stabilization.
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on your needs. The Insta360 Luna Ultra excels with its detachable display for easy selfie framing, while the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 offers a larger 1-inch sensor for superior low-light performance and more polished stabilization. For creators who prioritize flexibility, the Luna Ultra is better; for out-of-box simplicity and tracking, the Osmo Pocket 4 wins.
Key differences include the Luna Ultra's modular design with a detachable magnetic display versus the Osmo Pocket 4's integrated gimbal. The Luna Ultra supports future lens attachments and costs $100 less, while the Osmo Pocket 4 has a larger sensor and ActiveTrack 7.0 tracking. Both shoot 4K at 120fps but with distinct stabilization systems.
The Insta360 Luna Ultra starts at $499, while the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 is priced at $599. The Luna Ultra is $100 cheaper, though the Osmo Pocket 4 includes built-in ActiveTrack and a larger sensor. Modules for the Luna Ultra will be sold separately.
No, the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 has a larger 1-inch CMOS sensor, which generally provides better low-light performance and dynamic range. The Insta360 Luna Ultra uses a slightly smaller 0.95-inch sensor, but its modular design may allow for future sensor upgrades via attachments.
Yes, the Luna Ultra's modular bayonet mount allows for attachable lenses, including a wide-angle and telephoto option expected later in 2025. The DJI Osmo Pocket 4 does not support interchangeable lenses.
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