The program at Amsterdam Drone Week is all about uban air mobility (UAM) and eVTOL – with a global focus on the opportunities and the challenges. With many of the discussions still at a high level, there is one event that will bring it all down to earth, so to speak. Volocopter has committed to […]
The post Is Urban Air Mobility Ready for the Paris Olympics? From the Floor of Amsterdam Drone Week appeared first on DRONELIFE.
New Updates to A2Z Drone Delivery’s Winch System Enhance Safety and Expand Capabilities A2Z Drone Delivery, Inc., a leader in commercial drone delivery solutions, announced the rollout of new safety features and hardware enhancements for their RDS2 commercial drone delivery winch. These updates, which are effective immediately, aim to support the broader adoption of drone […]
The post A2Z Drone Delivery Enhances Winch System with New Safety and Hardware Features appeared first on DRONELIFE.
One of the world’s biggest air mobility events opened today in Amsterdam, as Amsterdam Drone Week kicked off. The event is uniquely global in nature, bringing stakeholders from around the world together to discuss regulations, operations, public opinion and integration. This morning, keynote addresses brought aviation leadership from Europe and the US together to discuss […]
The post FAA, ICAO Tout Progress on Air Mobility: From the Floor of Amsterdam Drone Week appeared first on DRONELIFE.
When you purchase the DJI Avata 2 Fly More Combo, you get three big items: the Avata 2 drone itself, plus a pair of DJI Goggles 3 (those are the first person view [FPV] goggles) and a unique type of controller called the DJI RC Motion 3. But what about the DJI FPV Remote Controller 3?
The DJI FPV Remote Controller 3 is offered as an add-on accessory to go with your DJI Avata 2 Fly More Combo for an additional $199 fee. Should you purchase it? Here’s a deep dive into what it is, why you might opt for it over the DJI RC Motion 3, and some spicy drone pilot opinions on how DJI could make the DJI Avata 2 Combo more consumer-friendly:
When you buy the DJI Avata 2 Fly More Combo ($999), the DJI RC Motion 3 is already included. The DJI RC Motion 3 is certainly a neat little product. It’s intended to be much more beginner-friendly than the DJI FPV Remote Controller 3.
By the way, check out my full DJI Avata 2 review here.
Whereas the DJI FPV Remote Controller 3 has two joysticks that require some skill, the DJI RC Motion 3 does pretty much everything through the combination of you tapping a few buttons and flicking your wrists. Yes, the drone’s motion responds to your wrist movements as you hold the DJI RC Motion 3.
From there, a series of buttons allow you to takeoff, stop, switch modes, and even execute fancy acrobatic maneuvers. There is one joystick, which allows you to control the aircraft’s ascent, descent, or horizontal movement to the left or right.
The RC Motion 3 features a two-stop throttle design. The first stop allows rapid adjustment of the drone’s pitch while hovering, and the second stop controls the flight speed depending on how much pressure is applied.
A half-press of the throttle trigger locks the drone in the first stop, keeping its attitude stable. That half-press prevents the drone from spinning due to remote controller jitters during hovering. The benefit? You may avoid dizziness as perceived through the flight goggles.
Fully pressing the trigger engages the second stop, unlocking the attitude and increasing the throttle.
But you might want the DJI Remote Controller 3, which looks more like your standard controller. It’s the only way you can fly the Avata 2 in Manual mode.
Here are the two controllers, compared:
| Feature | DJI FPV Remote Controller 3 | DJI RC Motion 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Control Style | Traditional Dual Sticks | Motion Control |
| Learning Curve for brand-new pilots | Steeper (More Precise) | Lower (More Intuitive) |
| Ideal for | Precision flying, experienced pilots | Freestyle flying, beginners |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours | Up to 10 hours |
| Charging Time | About 2 hours | About 2 hours |
| Weight | 240 grams | 118 grams |
| Modes | Normal, Sport, Manual | Normal, Sport (Software Select) |
| Price | $199 | Included with Avata 2 Explorer Combo (which costs $999) Otherwise sold separately for $99 |
| When is it best used? | If you want to fly in manual mode | If you want to execute flight manuevers with one tap |
With those differences in mind, here are the pros and cons of upgrading to the DJI FPV Remote Controller 3:
Manual control mode: You can not fly in manual control with the DJI RC Motion 3, marking the primary reason why most people would choose the DJI FPV Remote Controller 3 over the RC Motion 3.
Compatibility with drone flight simulators: If you want to practice using drone flight simulators, the DJI FPV Remote Controller 3 is there for you. This RC is compatible with popular simulators including Liftoff, Uncrashed, The Drone Racing League and DCL.
Really the only con here is cost. But is it worth the price?
After all, the brand-new RC Motion 3 enables one-press execution of various aerobatic maneuvers not limited to M-mode FPV Remote Controller users.
This version of the RC Motion 3 has also gotten some serious upgrades. For example, pilots can now combine the dial and button on the RC Motion 3 with hand movements to perform one-press flips, one-press rolls, and one-press 180° yaw splits. It’s also smaller and lighter than its predecessor, offering a much more comfortable grip.
For many pilots, the whole set is only complete with the DJI FPV Remote Controller 3. That lets you master more sophisticated skills and fly more accurately.
The DJI FPV Remote Controller 3 also marks a huge improvement over the old DJI FPV Remote Controller 2 given its DJI O4 video transmission and integrated antenna design. It’s also lighter than its predecessor and boasts a longer operating time. Here’s a look at how much better the version 3 is over version 2:
| Feature | DJI FPV Remote Controller 3 | DJI FPV Remote Controller 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Control Style | Traditional Dual Sticks | Traditional Dual Sticks |
| Battery Life | Up to 10 hours | Up to 9 hours |
| Charging Time | About 2 hours | About 2.5 hours |
| Weight | 240 grams | 346 grams |
| Dimensions | 165mm length 119 mm width 62 mm height |
190mm length 140 mm width 51 mm height |
| Compatible with | DJI Avata 2 DJI Goggles 3 |
DJI Avata DJI FPV DJI Goggles 2 DJI Goggles Integra DJI FPV Goggles V2 |
| Price | $199 | $199 |
Since they’e compatible with completely different pieces of equipment, you’re not really choosing between the Remote Controller 2 versus 3. But, use the information above to see just how much better this new RC got in the upgrade.
Total cost of DJI Avata 2 Fly More Combo + FPV Remote Controller 3 ($1,198): Most people buying the DJI Avata 2 will purchase the DJI Avata 2 Fly More Combo. To add on the FPV Remote Controller 3, you’ll owe $199, for a grand total of $1,198.
Total cost of DJI Avata 2 + FPV Remote Controller 3 + DJI Goggles 3 ($1,187): That said, if you really don’t want the RC Motion 3, you can buy items a la carte. DJI sells the Avata 2 drone only for just $489.
Since you cannot use DJI Avata 2 without goggles, you’ll likely need to spend $499 for the DJI Goggles 3. That said, previous generation goggles are also compatible with Avata 2. Thus, you can avoid that fee by using goggles you might already have. Or, you could simply save money by buying older models of goggles). The DJI Goggles 2 retail for $449 as of April 2024, and the DJI Goggles Integra retail for just $349.
Then, you could drop $199 on the DJI FPV Remote Controller 3.
Technically you save $11 if you go that route, but then you don’t get the Motion Controller 3 at all. I’d rather buy the DJI Avata 2 Fly More Combo + FPV Remote Controller 3 for $11 more.
But if you already have goggles (and don’t mind the older model), then you could pay just $688 for the new Avata 2 drone and DJI FPV Remote Controller 3. I absolutely love the new goggles, as the integrated headband is way less clunky and way more comfortable. But unless you’re looking for ways to burn cash, they likely wouldn’t be worth paying all that extra money for in most cases.
Since the Avata 2’s launch, some pilots have suggested their own idea: the option to choose between the DJI RC Motion 3 and the traditional dual-stick controls offered by the DJI FPV Remote Controller 3.
There are a few reasons why DJI might default to including the RC Motion 3 with the Avata 2, which might be:
Which controller do you like better? The FPV Remote Controller 3 or the DJI Motion Controller 3? Tell me in the comments!
And if you prefer the FPV Remote Controller 3, does that mean you’ll pay $200 extra for it? Again, share your ideas with the Drone Girl community below!
The post DJI FPV Remote Controller 3: is it worth adding to your Avata 2 kit? appeared first on The Drone Girl.
UNVEX’24 has secured the participation of key national and international leaders in the drone industry in its conference programme, as reflected in the first Spotlight session on June 4. The director of the Spanish Aviation Safety Agency, Patricia Pérez de Juan; the director of the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR), Joachim Sucker; the director of Mossos d’Esquadra, Pere Ferrer; and the co-founder of the […]
Federal approvals for flying drones over people have been advanced through Virginia Tech research. As of April 5, the updated means of compliance established by the Virginia Tech Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership has been accepted by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and published as a notice of availability in the federal register, establishing its availability for use. These updated testing […]
The Russians are facing a new threat behind the front line: tire-popping metal obstacles called caltrops dropped by drones. It is an ingenious new use of a very old weapon, which is causing problems for Russia’s already overstretched last-mile supply chain by halting vehicles so they can be hit by bomber drones. FPV kamikaze drones […]
DronTech Asia 2024, the first international exhibition and conference in Thailand dedicated to drones and their technology, has announced event dates to take place November 25–27 at the IMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center in Muang Thong Thani, Thailand. DronTech Asia is supported by Thailand’s Defense Technology Institute (DTI), the National Science and Technology Development Agency […]We tell you all about the most beautiful drone spots in the main French cities that our members had the opportunity to film!
In this article, we will fly over Grenoble by drone, discovering its best spots for
filming. We will start with a general presentation of the city before exploring emblematic places like the Tour Perret and the Fort de la Bastille. Paul Mistral Park and the banks of the Isère will also be in the spotlight. Finally, we will guide you to find a proficient drone pilot in this region.
The post The Best Drone-spots in Grenoble, France ! appeared first on DRONESTAG.
Looking for a new drone but can’t decide between the DJI Avata 2 and the Mini 4 Pro? These two DJI offerings have a similar price point, but they cater to very different flying styles. And one of these two drones might be especially-appealing for one big reason: it weights under 250 grams, thus it doesn’t need to be registered nor does it need to be Remote ID compliant.
Here’s a breakdown between two of DJI’s best — and most affordable — drones to help you pick the perfect one for your personal flying style and goals:
The DJI Avata 2 drone was built for FPV (First Person View) flying. Launched in April 2024, it shows you the world through the eyes of the drone via the included pair of goggles, called the DJI Goggles 3. Such unique eyewear gives you an immersive, in-cockpit experience. There’s an included motion controller that’s easy to learn but requires practice for precise maneuvers (though many pilots prefer the traditional RC, which comes at an extra cost.
The DJI Mini 4 Pro is a traditional remote control drone. It’s incredibly stable and easy to use. It’s especially great for beginners and drone pilots who want to capture smooth aerial footage on a compact drone.
| DJI Avata 2 | DJI Mini 4 Pro | |
| Takeoff Weight | 377 grams | < 249 g |
| Dimensions Folded without propellers (L×W×H) | 185×212×64 mm | 148×90×62 mm |
| Max Flight Time | 23 minutes | 34 minutes (with Intelligent Flight Battery) 45 minutes (with Intelligent Flight Battery Plus *) |
| Max Wind Speed Resistance | 10.7 m/s | 10.7 m/s |
| Global Navigation Satellite System | GPS + Galileo + BeiDou | GPS + Galileo + BeiDou |
| Onboard camera(s) | One camera | One camera |
| Image Sensor | 1/1.3-inch CMOS, Effective Pixels: 12 MP | 1/1.3-inch CMOS, Effective Pixels: 48 MP |
| ISO Range | 100-25600 | 100-6400 |
| Max Image Size | 4000×2256 (16∶9) 4000×3000 (4∶3) |
8064×6048 (48 MP) |
| Max Video Bitrate | 130 Mbps | 150 Mbps |
| Sensing Type | Downward and backward visual positioning | Omnidirectional binocular vision system |
| Video Transmission System | DJI O4 | DJI O4 |
So what do all these specs actually mean? Here’s a deeper dive into the DJI Avata 2 vs. DJI Mini 4 Pro drones:
The cameras on these two drones are comparable, but each has various pros and cons.
The DJI Avata 2 has a larger ISO range of up to 25,600. That enables higher quality images in darker conditions, where photos tend to turn out more grainy. Throw in the Avata 2’s 10-bit D-Log M mode, which preserves more detail in light and shadow. That just means even more flexibility in post-production.
But while the Avata 2 performs better in low-light, the Mini 4 Pro offers better overall image quality. Its max image size is 8064×6048 versus the Avata 2’s 4000×2256. Given the Mini 4 Pro’s 48 MP versus the Avata 2’s 12 MP, you’ll definitely want to opt for the Mini 4 Pro if your primary goal is high-quality. That includes people planning to show videos on a larger screen than your phone or computer, or people making fairly large prints)
If you’re mostly just posting to TikTok, Instagram or other social networks, the Avata 2 is okay. But photographers serious about their art should go for the Mini 4 Pro over the Avata 2. Those folks might even consider upgrading to one of DJI’s better camera drones.
The two drones also offer two different visual styles — and it’s subjective as to which one is better. The lens on the DJI Mini 4 Pro offers a maximum field of view (FOV) of 82.1°. On the Avata 2, it’s 155°.
One is not necessarily better or worse, but we’ll definitely call the style on the Avata 2 more impactful.
Consider this, when the DJI Mini 4 Pro users shoot in video mode, they capture a 75° field of view. That expands with a wide-angle lens attachment, but still only to 100°. Clearly that’s still significantly less than the 155° FOV offered by DJI Avata 2, offering a more immersive type of aesthetic. Check out this wide-angle view of my own backyard, which I shot on the DJI Avata 2, to show it in practice:
Gimbals are used to stabilize the camera on traditional drones. The Mini 4 Pro has one, but the Avata 2 does not. But the footage does still stay stable on the Avata 2. How? That’s thanks to two technologies called DJI RockSteady and DJI HorizonSteady. These are both digital technologies, where an onboard computer using DJI RockSteady algorithms is smart enough to digitally eliminates overall picture shake. Meanwhile, the DJI HorizonSteady algorithms ensure your footage remains locked on the horizon — even if the drone turns sharply or sways dramatically.
While the Avata 2 isn’t huge (naturally it’s small enough to fit within a doorframe), it’s still bigger than the DJI Mini 4 in one annoying way: it’s heavier.
The Avata 2 tips the scales at 377 grams. Meanwhile, the DJI Mini 4 Pro weighs less than half of that at under 249 grams. While 377 grams is hardly “big” in the realm of drones, it’s too big for people who want to avoid government intervention.
In many countries, drones weighing under 249 grams are exempt from numerous forms of regulation, including the need for registration. A good chunk of countries categorize drones based on their weight, with larger drones subject to more restrictions. In the U.S., drones that weigh 250 grams or more must be registered and Remote ID compliant if flying outdoors in most places.
Yes, that means if you fly Avata 2 outdoors (though it IS a totally great indoor drone), you must register it.
Besides the lack of administrative burden, the Mini 4’s compact size is also better for pilots seeking to travel with their drone while minimizing luggage space. It’s also ideal for those who are always on the move with their drone (like hikers). And it’s perfect for those who need to stow their drone in a backpack without it monopolizing space.
The two aircraft look quite different. The DJI Mini 4 Pro is already small and light. With foldable arms, it becomes even more compact when not flying. The DJI Avata 2 is relatively small, but it stands outs out for its built-in propeller guards. Those are meant to protect the drone (and your walls) in the event of a crash. And yes, given this drone’s nature as a racing drone, it’s kind of ready for a crash.
The DJI Mini 4 Pro version has an omnidirectional binocular vision system, effectively making your drone crash-proof. If you don’t want to risk crashing, order the Mini 4 Pro.
The Avata 2 has just downward and backward visual positioning — but that’s kind of the point. This is meant to be a racing or acro drone, meaning it flies flips and does acrobatic aerial tricks. If you’re afraid of crashing, this isn’t the drone for you.
This is a tie. Both drones use O4, which is DJI’s newest transmission system. This ultra-low latency, high-definition digital video transmission system, displays flight live feeds in real-time, creating an immersive flying experience.
Since both drones are compatible with the DJI Goggles 3, that feature really becomes interesting. Alas, when used with DJI Goggles 3, the latency is as low as 24 ms at 1080p/100fps live feeds.
The Avata 2 gets just 23 minutes. The DJI Mini 4 Pro offers 34 minutes with the Intelligent Flight Battery. That figure shoots up to 45 minutes with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus. I generally like the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus given the peace of mind the longer flight times add.
However, when flying your Mini 4 Pro with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus, it ends up weighing more than 249 grams. Alas, you’ll need to register it. That negates one of the primary reasons why people choose the Mini 4 Pro drone over others like the Avata 2 to begin with.
These drones are so different, that the decision should be relatively easy, despite their very similar price point.
Both drones are compatible with the new DJI Goggles 3 and RC Motion 3. If you’re smitten on those two products, know that either drone will pair with them. Given that, you’ll have to choose which of these two drones you want.
Get the Mini 4 Pro if you want a great all-around drone for stunning aerial footage. And don’t skip it if you value ease of use and stability or prefer a longer flight time.
It’s smaller and lighte. Thus, it’s a better pick if you’re traveling and you want to travel light, at that.
It’s also great if you don’t want to worry about registering it or general other forms of government regulations. Many countries only regulate drones that weigh 250 grams or more. That means the DJI Mini 4 Pro would be exempt, but the DJI Avata 2 would not be. In the U.S., the Mini 4 Pro does not need to be registered if flown for recreational purposes.
Get the Avata 2 if you crave the thrill of FPV flying. It’s the choice for adrenaline junkies who want the convenience and quality that DJI constsntly delivers.
This is the drone for you if you also prioritize maneuverability for action shots. It’s also great if you want to fly fast or do those tricks. Of course, this is only for you if you don’t mind the shorter flight time.
You also must register it if flying in the U.S.
Between the DJI Mini 4 Pro versus Avata 2 drones, which one would you rather have? Share your comment below!
Are you also considering the DJI Mini 3 Pro over a cheaper drone, like the DJI Mini 3? Check out our guide to the DJI Mini 4 Pro vs. Mini 3 Pro vs. Mini 3! Or maybe you’re thinking about the Mini 4 Pro versus other camera drones. Check out our guide to the DJI Air 3 vs. Mini 4 Pro.
The post Avata 2 vs. Mini 4 Pro: which drone is better? appeared first on The Drone Girl.