HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025 !

Posted by Dronerator
BONNE ET HEUREUSE ANNÉE 2025 !
Nous nous réjouissons déjà des nouveaux défis et expériences que vous allez nous demander de mener, à Marseille et en Région Sud!
 
HAPPY NEW YEAR 2025 !
Our team is already looking forward to the new challenges and experiences you will be asking us to undertake, in Marseille and Southern France!
 
Ce plan séquence de 75 secondes, filmé de nuit en Mai 2021 à Notre-Dame de la Garde avec notre drone DJI Inspire 2, monté de la caméra X7 et enregistré en 6K au codec ProResRaw. Il est disponible pour vos projets sur HOsiHO :
 
This 75-second sequence was filmed at night in May 2021 at Notre-Dame de la Garde in Marseille with our DJI Inspire 2 drone, fitted with the X7 camera and recorded in 6K using the ProResRaw codec. It is available for your projects from HOsiHO dronestock library.

 

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Intelligent Flight Batteries vs. Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus: more expensive doesn’t always mean better

Posted by Dronerator

When it comes to powering your DJI drone, the type of battery you choose plays a critical role in determining performance, flight time and cost-effectiveness. For some drones, like the DJI Mini 4 Pro or Mini 3 Series, DJI gives you a choice between two battery options: Intelligent Flight Batteries and Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus.

Both are smart batteries with advanced features, but they differ in flight times, weight, and price. This guide will break down the pros and cons of each to help you decide which is the best fit for your flying style. And for some use cases, the former (merely Intelligent Flight Batteries) can be better than the more expensive Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus.

Here’s your guide to choosing between DJI Intelligent Flight Batteries versus DJI Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus:

DJI Intelligent Flight Batteries versus DJI Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus

In a nutshell, Intelligent Flight Batteries are the default. They’re more affordable than Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus, and they’re also lighter. Lighter doesn’t just mean better portability; it can mean the difference of whether your drone crosses the critical 250 gram threshold, upon which it is subject to greater levels of regulation in many countries. (In the U.S., drones weighing 250 grams or more must be registered).

But the Plus versions entail longer flight time, which is an obvious win for many pilots.

What are DJI Intelligent Flight Batteries?

Intelligent Flight Batteries
The DJI Mini 3 Series with Intelligent Flight Battery. (Image courtesy of DJI)

Intelligent Flight Batteries are the standard power option for most DJI drones on the market these days. They offer a balance between performance, weight and affordability.

They’re lighter than the Plus versions — and cheaper. But, they can’t offer as long of flight times as DJI Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus.

Pros of DJI Intelligent Flight Batteries

  • Lightweight Design: These batteries are lighter than the Plus version, which helps drones like the Mini 3 Series stay under the 250-gram registration threshold in many countries.
  • Affordability: Intelligent Flight Batteries are more budget-friendly, making them a great choice for casual flyers or those purchasing multiple batteries.
  • Balanced Flight Time: While not as long-lasting as the Plus version, these batteries still offer sufficient flight time for most recreational pilots.
  • Regulatory Compliance: If staying under 250 grams is essential to avoid registration requirements, these batteries are the better choice.

Cons of DJI Intelligent Flight Batteries

  • Shorter Flight Times: Compared to the Plus version, these batteries provide less time in the air, which could require frequent swapping during long shoots or missions.
  • Limited for Longer Flights: For professionals or demanding missions, the flight time may feel restrictive.

What are DJI Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus?

Intelligent Flight Battery Plus
The DJI Mini 4 Pro/Mini 3 Series Intelligent Flight Battery Plus. (Image courtesy of DJI)

Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus are an upgraded version, offering longer flight times at the cost of higher weight and price. They’re best for pilots who prioritize extended flight durations over portability.

Pros of Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus

  • Extended Flight Time: These batteries significantly increase your drone’s flight duration, often by 30-50%. This is ideal for capturing more footage or completing longer missions.
  • Enhanced Productivity: Fewer battery swaps mean more time in the air and less downtime, which is critical for professionals.
  • Same Smart Features: Like the standard version, Plus batteries come with DJI’s advanced safety features, including real-time status monitoring and auto-discharge for long-term storage.

Cons of Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus

  • Heavier Weight: The added capacity increases weight, which can push drones like the Mini 3 Pro over the 250-gram registration threshold. This is an important consideration if portability and avoiding extra regulations are priorities.
  • Higher Cost: Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus are more expensive, making them a greater investment upfront.
  • Reduced Portability: The added weight and size can make them less convenient for travel or casual use.

Oh, and in some countries or regions (including Europe), you can’t even buy the Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus.

Key differences between Intelligent Flight Batteries and Plus Batteries

Here are some general spec differences:

Feature Intelligent Flight Batteries Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus
Regulatory Compliance Avoids registration in many regions May require registration
Portability Easier to carry and transport Slightly bulkier
Price Less expensive More expensive
Charging Time Shorter charging time Longer charging time

Unique to specific drone models, here are some key differences.

First, let’s look at differences between the batteries that are compatible with the DJI Mini 4 Pro:

Feature Intelligent Flight Batteries Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus
Flight Time (DJI Mini 4 Pro) 34 minutes 45 minutes
Weight of drone (DJI Mini 4 Pro) 249 grams More than 249 grams
Weight of battery 77.9 g 121 grams
Price (DJI Mini 4 Pro) $65 $95
Max Takeoff Altitude (DJI Mini 4 Pro) 4000 m 3000 m
Max Hovering Time (DJI Mini 4 Pro) 30 minutes 39 minutes
Max Flight Distance (DJI Mini 4 Pro) 18 km (with Intelligent Flight Battery and measured while flying at 40.7 kph in a windless environment at 20 meters above sea level) 25 km (with Intelligent Flight Battery Plus* and measured while flying at 44.3 kph in a windless environment at 20 meters above sea level)
Capacity 2590 mAh 3850 mAh
Charging time 70 minutes (if mounted to the aircraft)
58 minutes (if using the Two-Way Charging Hub)		 101 minutes (if mounted to the aircraft)
78 minutes (if using the Two-Way Charging Hub)

And here are some differences between the batteries that are compatible with the DJI Mini 3 Series:

Feature Intelligent Flight Batteries Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus
Flight Time (DJI Mini 3 Series) 38 minutes 51 minutes
Weight of drone (DJI Mini 3 Series) 248 grams 290 grams
Weight of battery 80.5 g 121 grams
Price (DJI Mini 3 Series) $65 $95
Max Takeoff Altitude (DJI Mini 3 Series) 4000 m 3000 m
Max Hovering Time (DJI Mini 3 Series) 33 minutes 44 minutes
Max Flight Distance (DJI Mini 3 Series) 18 km (with Intelligent Flight Battery and measured while flying at 40.7 kph in a windless environment at 20 meters above sea level) 25 km (with Intelligent Flight Battery Plus* and measured while flying at 44.3 kph in a windless environment at 20 meters above sea level)
Capacity 2453 mAh 3850 mAh
Charging time 64 minutes (if mounted to the aircraft)
56 minutes (if using the Two-Way Charging Hub)		 101 minutes (if mounted to the aircraft)
78 minutes (if using the Two-Way Charging Hub)

Which type of drone battery is best for you?

Choose Intelligent Flight Batteries if:

  • You need to keep your drone under 250 grams to avoid registration requirements.
  • You’re a casual flyer who values affordability and simplicity.
  • You don’t require extended flight times for your missions or shoots.

Choose Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus if:

  • You prioritize longer flight times for professional shoots or extended missions.
  • You don’t mind registering your drone if it exceeds 250 grams.
  • You’re willing to invest more for the convenience of fewer battery swaps.

What’s your preference? Share your experiences with these batteries in the comments below!

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China Expands Export Controls on US Defense Companies

Posted by Dronerator

28 American Entities Added to Restricted List, Including Major Aerospace and Defense Firms On January 2, 2025, China’s Ministry of Commerce announced the addition of 28 US entities to its export control list. This move aims to protect China’s national security and interests, targeting several major American aerospace and defense companies. This escalation comes amidst […]

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Arcsky Introduces the X55 V2: New American-Made Aircraft with Enhancements for Industrial Drone Applications

Posted by Dronerator

New Features Address Customer Feedback and Advance Operational Efficiency Arcsky has announced the launch of the X55 V2, an upgraded version of its X55 industrial drone. The company developed the new model based on two years of operational feedback and technological advances, aiming to meet the complex needs of industrial applications. “The X55 V2 represents […]

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Celebrating and Advancing Women in UAS and Public Safety

Posted by Dronerator

Women DRONERESPONDERS to Host Second Official Meeting at National Public Safety UAS Conference The Women DRONERESPONDERS (WDR) Sub-Alliance will hold its second official meeting on March 11, 2025, during the National Public Safety UAS Conference. The meeting will take place at the Festhaus in Busch Gardens, Williamsburg, VA, and will highlight the contributions of women […]

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The best travel drones of 2025

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When you’re packing for your next adventure, a travel drone might just be your ultimate travel companion. Whether it’s for capturing cinematic landscapes or just upping your Instagram game, travel drones are often the key to leveling up how you document your travels.

Now many of you know me as a drone expert. And yes, I’ve been documenting the drone industry closely since the beginning of 2013. But I’m also a drone expert. Yes, my real job is literally “travel expert” for NerdWallet. Therefore, I know a lot about what goes into traveling like a pro.

Drone Girl’s top travel drones of 2025

How I picked the best travel drones

Sure, you want a portable drone that packs well (avoid those checked bag fees)! You also want a drone that has as much built-in as possible to reduce odds of you forgetting something. I’m talking about built-in internal storage, or built-in screens. That way you don’t have to mess around with remembering to pack microSD cards or cords, or having a charged phone. Speaking of a full charge, you want a drone with a long battery life. Traveling often means minimal access to power outlets, but a long battery life reduces that need. And finally, you want a drone that holds up in somewhat tough conditions (and won’t get carried away in the wind). Often when traveling, you’re only in a location for one day. If the weather is too windy to fly, you’ll miss your shot (unless you have a drone that holds up well in the wind, of course).

So with that, here are my picks for the best travel drones of 2025:

DJI Air 3S: best overall

The DJI Air 3S has a dual camera and omnidirectional obstacle sensing. (Photo by Hamilton Nguyen)

The DJI Air 3S is my top travel drone pick, delivering a perfect balance of portability, durability and exceptional image quality.

Why the DJI Air 3S is great

  • Wind Resistance: During a week testing the DJI Air 3S in Oahu’s high-humidity, gusty November weather, the Air 3S impressed with its ability to handle wind speeds up to 12 m/s. Even flying close to the ocean, it remained stable and responsive—a critical feature for travel drone pilots who might not always get perfect weather.
  • Image Quality: Even under overcast skies, the Air 3S produced bright, vibrant images. Its robust camera system ensures your vacation photos and videos look professional, regardless of lighting conditions.
  • Built-In Storage: The 42GB of internal storage is a game-changer for frequent travelers like me who are prone to misplacing tiny SD cards. This feature ensures you’re always ready to capture footage without juggling extra gear.

Related read: DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mavic 3 Pro: is the Air 3S actually better?

Drawbacks

  • Slightly larger than ultra-portable drones, which might be a concern for backpackers or minimalist travelers.
  • Higher price point compared to entry-level drones.

Who it’s for: The DJI Air 3S is perfect for travelers who want a reliable drone capable of handling diverse conditions while delivering professional-grade results.

It costs $1,099, but that’s the starting price — and it’s the version without the built-in screen in the controller. $1,099 gets you the DJI RC-N3. However, I recommend you upgrade to the version with the DJI RC 2, which is $1,599 in Fly More Combo Form. The RC 2 is the version has a built-in screen, which means you won’t have to connect a separate device, like an iPhone. It’s way less headache, and it is definitely worth the extra $500 over the course of all your drone flights.

DJI Mini 4 Pro: best for portability

DJI Mini 4 Pro

For travelers prioritizing portability without sacrificing too much capability, the DJI Mini 4 Pro is an excellent alternative. I actually consider this my best drone overall for most people. But given the specific niche of this guide for travel drones (which prioritizes extra features like longer flight times and built-in memory), it comes in as something of a runner-up. (The best drones overall guide gives more weight to factors such as price.)

Clearly, the DJI Mini 4 Pro drone is still great.

Why the DJI Mini 4 Pro is great

  • Ultra-Portable Design: At just 249 grams, it’s lightweight enough to avoid registration in many countries. This is ideal if you travel internationally and don’t want to have to re-register in every country that regulates drones 250 grams or greater. Plus it’s compact, making it perfect for minimalist travelers or those with limited packing space.
  • Impressive Camera for Its Size: With a 1/1.3-inch sensor, it delivers sharp, clear images and performs admirably in good lighting conditions.
  • Beginner-Friendly: Features like obstacle avoidance and intelligent flight modes make it ideal for first-time drone pilots.

Drawbacks

  • Less capable in strong winds compared to the Air 3S.
  • Limited low-light performance.

Who it’s for: Travelers who need a lightweight, packable drone that’s easy to use and still delivers quality footage.

The DJI Mini 4 Pro technically starts at $759, but — like the DJI Air 3S starts with a lower base price — that’s for the version with the DJI RC-N2. If you want one with a better screen (which is a far better flying experience), you’ll owe at least $959 to get the DJI RC 2 instead. Or, upgrade to the Fly More Combo with DJI RC 2 for $1,099.

Autel EVO Nano+: best DJI alternative

The Autel Evo Nano+. (Photo courtesy of Autel)

For those looking to explore beyond DJI, the Autel EVO Nano+ is a worthy competitor. Both are Chinese drone companies, but some prefer Autel for reasons including preventing a DJI monopoly, or its fewer built-in piloting restrictions.

Why the Autel EVO Nano+ is great

  • Compact and Lightweight: Similar to the Mini 4 Pro, it’s designed for easy travel.
  • Advanced Features: Includes a 50MP camera and excellent low-light capabilities.
  • No Geo-Fencing: Unlike DJI, Autel drones don’t come with strict geo-fencing restrictions, offering more freedom to fly.

Drawbacks

  • Shorter battery life compared to DJI models.
  • Smaller ecosystem of accessories and support.

Who it’s for: Travelers who want a portable drone with great low-light performance and fewer restrictions on where they can fly.

Plus, at just $679 for its starting price, this drone is quite affordable (as long as you can find it). It is currently sold out on the Autel website, but it’s available on other retailers such as Amazon and B&H Photo.

The best travel drones, side-by-side

Here’s how my picks for the best travel drones compare against each other:

Feature DJI Air 3S DJI Mini 4 Pro Autel EVO Nano+
Starting price $1,099 $759 $679
Weight 724g 249g 249g
Camera 1-inch sensor 1/1.3-inch sensor 50MP Camera
Wind Resistance 12 m/s 10.7 m/s 10 m/s
Battery Life ~45 minutes ~34 minutes (or 45 minutes with Intelligent Flight Battery Plus) ~28 minutes
Storage 42 GB Built-In 2 GB MicroSD Only
Best For All-around performance Ultra-portability Unrestricted flying (and a general DJI alternative)

Tips for traveling with drones

Whether you’re a seasoned drone pilot or just starting out, the right drone can elevate your travel experience. The DJI Air 3S stands out for its performance and reliability, while the DJI Mini 4 Pro and Autel EVO Nano+ cater to specific traveler needs.

No matter what drone you fly, though, here are some tips to consider when traveling with drones:

Know the rules

  1. Check Local Drone Laws: Each country has different drone regulations. Ensure your drone is legal to fly before taking off internationally. Even some city parks have their own rules. In the U.S., the B4UFly system is a good way to check if your flights are legal (but sometimes those don’t even account for local rules or rules on private property).
  2. Find out if you can fly with your drone: Each airline sets their own rules around what you can and can’t bring on the plane. Most airlines do allow drones, but check before flying. If flying in the U.S., know that you are allowed to bring your drone through airport security. However, you generally need to remove the drone from its bag when going through airport security (though this can vary by who is working the security screener that day).

Gear and packing

  1. Invest in Spare Batteries: Especially for longer trips, as charging opportunities might be limited.
  2. Use Landing Pads: Protect your drone during takeoff and landing in rugged terrain. These are generally portable and easy to fold up. But even if you don’t have a “real” landing pad, you can typically invent a makeshift one with something like a towel or even your jacket.
  3. Plan for Storage: If you’re checking your drone, place it in a hard-shell case for added protection as it inevitably gets jostled in cargo. Go Professional Cases is generally considered the best in the business as far as hard-shell cases go.

Travel better

  1. Pick destinations that cater to drones! Generally speaking, the more remote, the better! I had a blast flying my drone in the Arctic Circle. It doesn’t get any more remote than that. Not sure how to plan a vacation? There are even drone vacations that cater their itineraries specifically to drone pilots.
  2. Get TSA PreCheck. Remember how I mentioned confusing TSA rules? At least speed up the process by applying for TSA PreCheck.

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