The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has quickly become a favorite among vloggers, travelers, and content creators for its compact size and impressive performance. Launched in October 2023, this pocket-sized camera offers a 1-inch CMOS sensor, 4K/120fps video recording, and a rotatable touchscreen, making it a versatile tool for capturing ultra-stable, high-quality footage on the go. However, recent back-to-back price hikes have taken the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 from an affordable $519 to a staggering $799 in just two months, leaving many users frustrated and questioning the value of this once budget-friendly gadget.
What Makes the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Special?
Before diving into the price controversy, it’s worth understanding why the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has captured so much attention. This camera is designed for creators who want professional-grade video without lugging around heavy equipment. Its standout features include:
- 1-inch CMOS sensor: Delivers excellent image quality, even in low light.
- 4K/120fps recording: Perfect for smooth, cinematic slow-motion shots.
- Three-axis stabilization: Keeps footage steady, no matter how much you move.
- Rotatable touchscreen: Easily switch between horizontal and vertical filming.
At its original $519 price tag, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 offered incredible value, competing with much pricier setups. But that affordability has taken a hit.
The Shocking Price Jump: $519 to $799
In early 2025, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 saw its first price bump in the US, rising from $519 to $619. Just two months later, it climbed again to $799—a 54% increase from its launch price. This rapid escalation has shocked users, especially since prices in other regions like the UK, Europe, and Japan have stayed the same.
Here’s a quick look at how prices compare across regions:
| Region | Original Price | Current Price |
|---|---|---|
| US | $519 | $799 |
| UK | £489 | £489 |
| Europe | €519 | €519 |
| Japan | ¥79,800 | ¥79,800 |
The table shows that the US is the outlier, sparking debates about what’s driving these changes.
Why Is the Price Going Up?
The main culprit appears to be US tariffs on Chinese imports. As a Chinese company, DJI is feeling the pinch of these trade policies, which increase the cost of bringing the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 into the US. A DJI spokesperson addressed this, saying, “Tariffs are certainly among the key considerations” behind the price adjustments. But there’s more to the story—high demand and limited stock might also be pushing prices up. With the camera selling out quickly, some wonder if DJI is taking advantage of its popularity.
How Are Users Reacting?
The price hikes have sparked a wave of frustration online. One X user vented, “I’ve literally watched the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo go from $599 to $699 to $799 to $980 over the course of 3 months.” Another pointed out, “The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 was $519 retail last year… it is currently at $799 for ONLY the camera.” These reactions show how the price surge is hitting fans hard, turning an accessible tool into a premium purchase.
Is It Still Worth Buying?
Even at $799, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 remains a leader in its class, offering unmatched portability and quality. For serious creators, it might still justify the cost. But for casual users or those on a budget, the new price could be a dealbreaker. Some are exploring options like buying from overseas retailers (e.g., Amazon Germany) to save money, though this comes with risks like shipping costs and warranty concerns.
What’s Next?
The future of the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 in the US hinges on how DJI navigates tariffs and demand. If trade tensions ease, prices might stabilize—but for now, US buyers face a higher cost than their global counterparts. Whether this affects DJI’s popularity or pushes users toward alternatives remains to be seen.