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DJI has once again raised the bar for FPV (First-Person View) technology with the introduction of its DJI O4 Air Unit Series. As the flagship in DJI’s digital video transmission lineup, this set of products could be a game-changer for drone enthusiasts, filmmakers and content creators who fly FPV.
Here’s an in-depth look at what sets this system apart, who it’s for, and how it compares to competitors in the broader drone industry.
DJI O4 Air Unit Series: everything you need to know
The DJI O4 Air Unit Series is two different models of a similar product: the DJI O4 Air Unit and the DJI O4 Air Unit Pro. These devices are compact, lightweight digital video transmission solutions that deliver improved video quality with ultra-low latency, making them ideal for high-speed drone flights done FPV-style.
There’s a Pro version, which is basically just a more advanced version of the standard one. They are:
DJI O4 Air Unit: Weighing just 8.2 grams, it is a compact solution with a 1/2-inch image sensor capable of recording 4K/60fps video. Designed for flexibility, it’s better for lightweight drones.
DJI O4 Air Unit Pro: Boasting a larger 1/1.3-inch image sensor, this model records 4K/120fps video and features advanced cinematic tools such as a 155° ultra-wide field of view and 10-bit D-Log M color mode. It’s tailored for filmmakers and creators seeking professional-grade aerial footage.
The front of the DJI O4 Air Unit. (Photo courtesy of DJI)
The DJI O4 Air Unit includes a camera module1, transmission module, 3-in-1 cable and antenna. It retails for $109.
A mockup of the DJI O4 Air Unit Pro on a drone frame. (Image courtesy of DJI)
If you’re flying off-the-shelf camera drones, this probably isn’t for you. This is instead for people who fly FPV-style — though it’s not necessarily limited to the flashy, fast races you see on TV. All sorts of people fly FPV, including for industrial uses. The DJI O4 Air Unit Series will likely appeal to:
Hobby FPV enthusiasts: Hobbyists and racers will appreciate the lightweight design and ultra-low latency, ensuring smooth, real-time video feeds during high-speed flights.
Racing drone pilots: The Racing Mode supports up to eight drones competing simultaneously, maintaining low latency for ,pre precise maneuvering.
Filmmakers: Sure, many camera drones are not FPV style. But, many filmmakers prefer it. They’ll likely go for the Pro model given its enhanced imaging capabilities, including 4K/120fps recording and advanced color modes.
Innovators and Professionals: From industrial applications to creative projects, the O4 Air Unit Series supports customizable layouts and Betaflight integration for advanced flight control.
Key features and benefits
The DJI O4 Air unit mocked up on a drone frame. (Photo courtesy of DJI)
Here’s an overview of what to expect with either (or both) versions:
In terms of video quality:
DJI O4 Air Unit: Delivers crisp 4K/60fps video with H.265 encoding, offering clear and smooth real-time imagery.
DJI O4 Air Unit Pro: Elevates visuals with 4K/120fps recording, a 155° ultra-wide field of view, and support for 10-bit D-Log M color mode.
Both models feature DJI’s proprietary O4 transmission system with:
Extended Range: Up to 10 km for the Air Unit and 15 km for the Air Unit Pro.
Low Latency: As low as 20ms (Air Unit) and 15ms (Pro).
Dual Antennas: Enhanced stability and automatic frequency selection.
In terms of actual flight:
Lightweight Design: The compact size enables integration with even the smallest racing drones.
RockSteady Stabilization: Ensures smooth footage, even during high-speed flights.
Other details around customization and compatibility:
Betaflight OSD and Canvas Mode: Customizable data displays enhance control and navigation.
Compatible Ecosystem: Works seamlessly with DJI Goggles 2, DJI Goggles 3, and multiple remote controllers.
How to choose between the two units
The DJI O4 Air Unit Series stands out in the FPV landscape due to its blend of portability, performance, and professional-grade features. The Pro version is more than $100 pricier than the base mode, but it’s not necessarily better given its larger size. That could only slow down flight times, or potentially not even work on certain drones. Here’s a comparison of the two models:
How you should be thinking about the DJI O4 Air Unit Series given the current drone landscape
The launch of the DJI O4 Air Unit Series reflects a broader trend in the drone industry: the convergence of lightweight, high-performance technology with professional-grade capabilities. Sure, hobby usage is not growing at the rate it once was — but enterprise usage is.
With that, DJI is working to make drone flying easier, even for enterprise operations. By integrating features traditionally reserved for standalone action cameras directly into FPV systems, DJI simplifies workflows and broadens creative possibilities for users.
(Image courtesy of DJI)
And what about the competition? Sure, DJI has cornered the market of camera drones, but that’s been less so the case with FPV drones. Yet this launch also sets a new benchmark for competitors. Lightweight FPV systems with advanced imaging capabilities will likely become the new standard, pushing innovation and expanding the accessibility of cinematic aerial videography.
Both models are available now at DJI’s online store and authorized retailers.
The DJI O4 Air Unit includes a camera module, transmission module, 3-in-1 cable and antenna. It retails for $109.
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