360-degree cameras such as the Insta360 or the new Osmo 2 DJI’s cameras have a significant advantage over standard action cameras. Why? Two wide-angle lenses positioned opposite each other capture two hemispheres, which are then digitally stitched together to form a complete 360-degree view. The video file with its circular field of view is initially relatively unusable, but the advantage is that you can later use software to freely select the linear section of the image. This eliminates the problem of not having filmed the best action properly in the centre of the frame – or even missing it altogether.
DJI Osmo 2 360° – key specifications
The DJI Osmo 2 has been available since mid-September 2026 and is available either as the Standard Set (589 euros, including a case and lens protector) or as the Adventure Set, which we tried out. The Adventure Set (€739) includes two additional batteries, a charging case, a selfie stick and a matching quick-release adapter with a tilt function.
The camera is waterproof to a depth of up to ten metres, weighs just under 200 grams and is just over eight centimetres tall. It can be attached using an adapter via a threaded connection e.g. on a Flymount and other mounts. It’s great that the camera has 128 GB of built-in storage, which can be expanded using a microSD card if required. Plenty of storage space is essential, as the camera can record 360° videos in high-resolution 8K at up to 60 frames per second (fps) if desired. These can later be exported as half-speed slow-motion clips at full resolution. Those looking for super slow-motion can even film at up to 240 fps in 4K quality, resulting in smooth action at 1/8th of the original speed. Also of interest for windsurfing and foiling is the Pre-recording-Function: The camera records the action for a set period (5 seconds to 5 minutes), but then overwrites the footage. Only when you press the shutter button after a successful move is the preceding action permanently saved. This saves storage space and time when reviewing the footage, as there is hardly any waste footage.
Missed the right moment – that’s not a problem with a 360-degree camera
A complete focus on video features
The DJI Osmo 2 360° is optimised for video functionality! Whilst it can also take standard photos of up to 30 megapixels in Single Lens mode, it does not feature a high-speed burst mode like the GoPro Hero. If you want to export photos for the web or social media, the best way to do this is via the Mimo app: simply select the desired section of the 360-degree video and then export an image using the screenshot function. Tip: As this single image represents only a tiny section of the 360-degree view, the quality is reduced. It is therefore advisable to film at the maximum possible resolution of 8K; then the exported still images will be of perfectly adequate quality. We found the battery performance to be only moderate, however: in our test at a cool temperature of 16 degrees, the battery lasted just over an hour at full video resolution (8K/60fps).
Control via the DJI Mimo app
Using the touchscreen takes a bit of getting used to; further viewing and editing of the video footage is carried out via the DJI Mimo app anyway. Within the app, you can now select the frame, track objects, export screenshots and edit short videos. It’s clear to see that the camera stabilisation is impressive: minor wobbles and vibrations – such as the jolts during fast gliding or wind vibrations – are digitally compensated for, resulting in a smooth, drone-like flight. The horizon is also reliably straightened out during more pronounced fluctuations – making it ideal for traditionally ‘shaky’ action sports such as windsurfing or wing foiling.
DJI Osmo 2 360° – the verdict
The advantage of being able to choose the angle of view afterwards is THE key selling point for a 360-degree camera like the Osmo 2. Video quality, stabilisation, slow-motion functions and the editing options via the app are impressive when used for water sports. However, if you don’t want to compromise on full-quality photo bursts, the Osmo 2 isn’t the best choice; traditional action cameras such as the GoPro Hero offer more options in this regard.
Top-quality video & features, stabilisation, wide field of view, handy app
Battery life
No continuous shooting function
Manuel Vogel
Editor surf