DJI · Reviewed by Dave Herring · Published 2026-07-30
Based on a review by Dave Herring (accessed 2026-07-30).
Based on this review alone: buy it if you care about excellent dynamic range with d-log profiles (d-log 1 and d-log 2) — just accept d-log 2 profile only works on the 1x lens, not the 3x lens.
The reviewer generally likes the DJI Pocket 4P, describing it as a great balance of efficiency and output for capturing moments and making videos. However, he expresses disappointment over the D-Log 2 limitation to the 1X lens and, more significantly, the camera's unavailability in the USA due to an FCC ban.
This review covers the DJI Pocket 4P, showcasing its video capabilities through footage captured in various locations and comparing it to its predecessor, the Pocket 3. The reviewer discusses new features, improved log profiles, and the camera's overall performance. It also highlights significant limitations regarding the D-Log 2 profile and the camera's availability in the USA.
The DJI Pocket 4P is a highly capable and efficient video camera, offering significant improvements over its predecessor. It achieves excellent dynamic range with its D-Log profiles, allowing the reviewer to use his existing color grades seamlessly across footage. The smooth and stable gimbal ensures cinematic footage, even when utilizing the 2x lossless zoom on both the 1X (20mm) and 3X (60mm) lenses. However, a major drawback is the D-Log 2 profile's exclusivity to the 1X lens, making consistent color grading across both lenses cumbersome. Furthermore, the camera's unavailability in the USA due to an FCC ban is a significant barrier for many potential buyers. If you are outside the USA and require a highly portable, easy-to-use camera for high-quality video, this device is an excellent choice. If you specifically need D-Log 2 across all focal lengths or reside in the USA, consider alternatives.
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hands_on_demopositivet=0:00–0:25
The reviewer states that all recent footage on his channel, including trips with Peter McKinnon, to the Golden Gate Bridge, the World Cup, and a rodeo, was recorded using the DJI Pocket 4P.
reviewer_claimneutralt=0:25–0:36
The reviewer notes that the previous Pocket 3, while good enough for videos, was limited by its 20mm lens and a very limited log profile that was 'barely log'.
reviewer_claimpositivet=0:44–0:47
The reviewer states that with the Pocket 4P, the footage quality has gone from 'good enough' to 'really, really good'.
comparisonpositivet=1:25–1:36
The D-Log 1 and D-Log 2 profiles on the Pocket 4P are so good that the exact same power grade and LUT used on his Sony files look 'absolutely fantastic' on the Pocket 4P.
visual_inspectionneutralt=1:50–2:02
The camera is small, described as 'jacket pocket small' but not 'front pocket small', especially for someone wearing skinny jeans, but still retains a small form factor.
hands_on_demopositivet=2:04–2:18
The Pocket 4P powers up and on very quickly, and setting it up is described as a 'one-and-done process'. DJI mics also connect to it instantly, making it super easy to use.
reviewer_claimpositivet=2:24–2:39
The dynamic range of the log profiles on the camera is 'insanely good', with no limitations felt in footage regardless of whether it was shot in hard light, good light, or low light.
reviewer_claimpositivet=2:40–2:49
The 4K footage from the Pocket 4P is great on both the 1X (20mm) and 3X (60mm) lenses.
reviewer_claimpositivet=2:50–3:03
The camera can zoom with no quality loss at two times each lens, achieving equivalents of 40mm on the 1X and up to 120mm on the 3X lens.
reviewer_claimpositivet=3:06–3:10
Colors shot directly out of the camera look great if users choose not to use the log profiles.
hands_on_demopositivet=3:18–3:29
The gimbal is very smooth and stable, resulting in cinematic and smooth footage even when zoomed in, which was an improvement over previous models.
reviewer_claimnegativet=3:30–4:00
D-Log 2, which offers up to 17 stops of dynamic range, only works on the 1X lens and not on the 3X lens. A DJI engineer confirmed this is due to both hardware and firmware limitations.
reviewer_claimnegativet=4:06–4:21
The limitation of D-Log 2 to the wide lens means that switching between lenses will require different log profiles and potentially different color grading processes, which the reviewer finds 'super annoying'.
reviewer_claimneutralt=4:22–4:50
The reviewer's workaround is to primarily use D-Log 1 (which he finds 'good enough') and use a custom button to quickly switch to D-Log 2 only for high dynamic range scenes where it's truly needed.
specification_claimnegativet=4:52–5:17
The DJI Pocket 4P is not available for purchase in the USA due to an FCC ban on all DJI products, which the reviewer describes as a 'real bummer' for creatives.
The reviewer extensively used the Pocket 4P for professional footage, stating that the video quality is now 'really, really good.' It delivers great 4K footage on both its 1X (20mm) and 3X (60mm) lenses. The colors directly out of the camera also look great, and the dynamic range with log profiles is described as 'insanely good,' performing well in various lighting conditions.
The D-Log 1 and D-Log 2 profiles are highly praised, with the reviewer noting they are so good that his existing color grades and LUTs for Sony files work 'absolutely fantastic' on the Pocket 4P. The D-Log 2 profile specifically boasts up to 17 stops of dynamic range, significantly enhancing post-production flexibility.
The reviewer highlights that the gimbal is 'very smooth and stable,' making the footage feel cinematic and smooth, even when using the zoom feature. This indicates a strong improvement in stabilization, allowing for steady shots in various conditions.
The Pocket 4P powers up and on very quickly, and its setup process is described as 'one-and-done,' making it really easy. The DJI mics also connect instantly, contributing to a seamless user experience, to the point where you don't need to be a videographer to use it.
A significant limitation is that the D-Log 2 profile, which offers up to 17 stops of dynamic range, is only available on the 1X lens and not the 3X lens. This was confirmed by a DJI engineer to be both a hardware and firmware limitation, meaning no future update will add it. This can make color grading inconvenient if switching between lenses.
The reviewer explicitly states that the DJI Pocket 4P is not available for purchase in the USA. This is attributed to an FCC ban on all DJI products, which the reviewer finds to be a significant setback for creatives in the US.
The camera is described as 'jacket pocket small,' making it quite portable. While it might not fit into a front pants pocket, especially for those wearing skinny jeans, it generally retains a compact size that is easy to carry.
60/100 source quality
Dave Herring extensively used the DJI Pocket 4P for his channel's footage, noting it as a significant upgrade from the Pocket 3. He praises its improved D-Log profiles, impressive dynamic range, and smooth, stable gimbal, which contributes to cinematic footage. Despite its strong performance, the reviewer highlights two major drawbacks: the D-Log 2 profile is limited to the 1X lens due to hardware and firmware issues, and the camera is currently not available in the USA due to an FCC ban on DJI products. He still recommends it for creatives outside the US.
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This page converts Dave Herring's review of the DJI DJI Pocket 4P into structured evidence — timestamped claims, pros & cons, and buyer questions. It is not the original review and does not replace watching or reading the full source.
Brand relationship disclosed as: gifted