DJI, known for its innovation in consumer and professional drones, launched the DJI Flip in January 2025. It’s aimed at vloggers, beginners and travelers — but so is another recently-launched drone from DJI: the DJI Neo. So in a battle versus the DJI Flip vs. Neo, which should you go for?

The DJI Flip is DJI’s newest drone, but the DJI Neo isn’t exactly old either, having launched just a few months prior in October 2024. The DJI Flip is more than double the price of the DJI Neo, but neither is expensive as far as drones go. The Flip starts at just $439, whereas the Neo comes in under $200.

Given that both are some of the best beginner drones you can buy, how do you choose? Both drones are great for kids, and are designed for accessibility and simplicity. So, which one should you go for?

Here’s a detailed comparison between the DJI Flip vs. Neo to help you decide which drone is the right fit for you.

DJI Flip in a nutshell

Starting at $439, the DJI Flip is a compact, vlog-focused drone weighing under 249 grams. It features foldable, full-coverage propeller guards for safety, a powerful 48MP camera and AI-powered shooting modes optimized for social media.

Read my full DJI Flip review.

• Order the DJI Flip drone from Amazon, starting at $439
• Order the DJI Flip drone from B&H Photo, starting at $439.
• Order the DJI Flip drone from Drone Nerds, starting at $439.

DJI Neo in a nutshell

At less than $200, Neo is an entry-level drone for beginners. It features a 12MP camera, basic intelligent flight modes, plus a lightweight, portable design. It’s built for simplicity and affordability but lacks some advanced features. And though you can control it with a standard controller, it’s not really meant to be flown that way. This is designed as a hand-launch drone.

Read my full DJI Neo review.

• Order DJI Neo now from Adorama for $199.
• Order DJI Neo now from Amazon for $199.
• Order DJI Neo now from B&H Photo for $199.
• Order DJI Neo now from Drone Nerds for $199.

DJI Neo vs. Flip: side-by-side

Here are some key features on both drones, compared:

And here’s those specs in a more detailed review:

Camera and video quality

• DJI Flip: The 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor offers the same quality as the Mini 4 Pro. You’re looking at 48MP photos and 4K HDR video, plus slow-motion recording at 4K/100fps. There’s also a vertical shooting mode, perfect for vloggers and content creators putting their content on vertical sites like Instagram or TikTok.
• DJI Neo: With a smaller 1/2-inch sensor and 12MP resolution, the Neo is designed for casual photography. 12MP is still good, especially if your goals are posting on Instagram rather than making big prints. As far as video goes, its 4K video is impressive.

Winner: DJI Flip – Superior photo and video capabilities.

Safety and usability

• DJI Flip: This foldable drone has a unique design with full-coverage propeller guards and automatic braking, make it one of the safest drones for beginners. Its lightweight design also avoids registration requirements in many regions, including in the U.S.
• DJI Neo: As a departure from most of DJI’s drones, this one has propeller guards (though not fully enclosed, like the Flip.

Winner: DJI Flip – Fully enclosed propellers add to safety.

Flight performance

• DJI Flip: This drone offers up to 31 minutes of flight time, with improved transmission (13km) and anti-interference capabilities. The DJI O4 video transmission delivers clear 1080p/60fps video. It still won’t be as powerful as other drones like the Air 3S in tricky flying situations, like high winds. But, it’s more powerful than the Neo.
• DJI Neo: This drone offers just 18 minutes of flight time. Consider it a fun party trick or a tool for quick flights, but that flight time can feel limiting.

Winner: DJI Flip – Longer flight times and better video transmission.

Portability

Both drones weigh under 249g and are compact, making them excellent travel companions.

• DJI Flip: The Flip is much larger than Neo in flying form, but its unique folding design makes it so it actually packs up to be roughly the same size as the Neo.
• DJI Neo: The Neo isn’t actually foldable, but that’s because it’s already so small. It could fit into a larger jacket pocket. Since it’s designed to fly as a hand-launch drone, which means no controller, you don’t even need to leave room in your suitcase or backpack for an RC transmitter.

Winner: Neo (but that’s only assuming you don’t need the RC transmitter, otherwise it’s a tie)

Price

Obvious the Neo wins out at $199 versus $439 as a starting price for the Flip. Just know what you’re really getting (and what you might end up paying more for).

The DJI Neo starts at $199 and it doesn’t include an RC, which means you’ll be flying hand-launch style and either having it track you or controlling it from your smartphone. Add on the RC and you’ll owe $289.

The Flip starts at $439, which includes a remote controller. Still, it’s $150 more than the Neo, but the price difference might not feel as stark if you think you’ll end up buying the Neo controller anyway.

DJI Flip vs. Neo: how to choose

On the surface, they both have a lot in common — great beginner drones and great drones for kids — the DJI Flip and DJI Neo actually cater to some pretty distinct needs.

The DJI Flip is perfect for creators and travelers who want advanced camera capabilities, such as 48MP photos, 4K/60fps HDR video, and intelligent shooting modes like ActiveTrack 4.0. Its safety features, including foldable propeller guards and automatic braking, make it beginner-friendly and great for families.

• Order the DJI Flip drone from Amazon, starting at $439
• Order the DJI Flip drone from B&H Photo, starting at $439.
• Order the DJI Flip drone from Drone Nerds, starting at $439.

The DJI Neo is designed for budget-conscious beginners or casual users looking for a simple and reliable drone. While it offers basic features and solid performance, its 12MP camera and 2.7K video resolution fall short of the Flip’s imaging quality.

• Order DJI Neo now from Adorama for $199.
• Order DJI Neo now from Amazon for $199.
• Order DJI Neo now from B&H Photo for $199.
• Order DJI Neo now from Drone Nerds for $199.

Choose the Flip if you’re seeking creativity and versatility. Choose the Neo if simplicity and affordability are your priorities.

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The DJI Flip launched in January 2025, marking a game-changing addition to the world of compact drones. It’s design is a huge departure from any sort of drone we’ve seen before, representing something like four massive wheels surrounding a camera. The DJI Flip drone is best for vloggers, beginners and travel enthusiasts — offering something of a mix between the ultra-low cost DJI Neo (which launched in late 2025) and the DJI Mini lineup.

With its foldable, full-coverage propeller guards, advanced safety features and a robust camera system, the DJI Flip is palm-sized drone that blend’s Neo’s ease of use with camera quality that’s closer to professional grade (aerial shots are the same quality as the Mini 4 Pro). I spent the past month testing out this neat little drone to put together my DJI Flip review. So with that, here’s a deep dive into its features, strengths and weaknesses — plus an analysis of how it stacks up against other DJI drones.

Its starting price? It comes in under $500, at $439 to be exact. Upgraded models include the DJI Flip with the upgraded RC 2 rather than the standard RC-N3($639) and the Fly More Combo with RC 2 ($779).

• Order the DJI Flip drone from Amazon, starting at $439
• Order the DJI Flip drone from B&H Photo, starting at $439.
• Order the DJI Flip drone from Drone Nerds, starting at $439.

Who is the DJI Flip best for?

There are all sorts of camera drones on the market. The Flip certainly isn’t the most powerful, as other camera drones like the DJI Air 3S and DJI Mavic 3 Pro can offer even stronger flight and higher image quality. But it’s tough to argue with a drone under $500 that’s this good.

• Vloggers and social media creators: With vertical shooting capabilities and audio recording via smartphone integration, this drone is optimized for videos intended for platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
• Beginner drone pilots: The foldable propeller guards, automatic braking, and lightweight design (<249g) make it one of the safest and easiest drones for first-time flyers.
• Travelers: Because it’s compact and portable, it’s heavily checks the convenience box in a ranking of best travel drones.

Key features of the DJI Flip

Design

The DJI Flip takes the enclosed propeller guards that made the Neo a popular drone for kids (and a popular drone for beginners, too). From there, it adds the foldable design first introduced into DJI products with the DJI Mavic way back in 2016.

That makes the DJI Flip the first DJI’s first drone to feature foldable, full-coverage propeller guards. It’s efficient in design from a portability standpoint, but also far safer versus having propellers exposed.

Those propeller guards are made with traditional polycarbonate material.

And of course, this drone is ultra lightweight. It weighs under 249 grams. Any drone weighing under 250 grams is significant as it’s not regulated by federal aviation agencies in most countries. That includes the U.S., where the Federal Aviation Administration requires that pilots register drones weighing 250 grams or more. Drones 250 grams or more also must be Remote ID compliant.

Camera

The camera will get you basically the same quality as the Mini 4 Pro (yet that drone starts at more than $300). The photo above is an unedited version of a shot I took in still photo mode with this drone.

This drone’s camera also gets really interesting in that it’s designed to also adjust for close-up shots of people. When taking close-ups, expect the same quality as what you’d get on the Osmo Pocket 3, which is a part of DJI’s hand-held lineup of cameras.

Tap to focus on the subject you want in focus (if it doesn’t automatically focus to the area you want). From there, the drone snaps a photo that pulls out details in faces while blurring out the background (that’s where the f/1.7 aperture comes in). The photo above shows exactly what those close-up shots look like. I personally find the quality of close-up shots to be higher than even shots taken from a medium distance.

Here are some key camera specs:

• 48MP photos with high dynamic range and 4x zoom.
• 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor.
• Dual Native ISO Fusion.
• f/1.7 aperture.
• 2.4μm 4-in-1 pixels.
• 4K/60fps HDR video, 10-bit D-Log M color mode, and slow motion at 4K/100fps.
• AI-powered tools like SmartPhoto and intelligent shooting modes (e.g. Dronie, Circle, Helix).

Flight time and control

This thing is super easy to fly. DJI gives you a few options, including the option to fly it handsfree purely by using voice control through the DJI Fly app.

You might also opt to use it with just one hand through the DJI Fly app via Wi-Fi direct, which lets you switch between different shooting modes in a new vertical screen interface.

Of course, your other option is to go the traditional route via remote control. You can use the cheaper DJI RC-N3 (included with the $439 DJI Flip), or opt for the upgraded RC 2 ($639 including the Flip), which I prefer.

Read more: DJI RC 2 vs RC-N2: should Mini 4 Pro pilots upgrade?

Expect 31 minutes of max flight time with the Intelligent Flight Battery.

If you purchase the $779 Fly More Combo, you get two spare batteries (three total) plus the Parallel Charging Hub, which charges two batteries simultaneously.

Safety and ease of use

Here are some key safety specs:

• Foldable propeller guards made from carbon fiber for minimal weight and maximum protection.
• Automatic braking and obstacle sensing for safe flying via DJI Flip’s 3D ToF sensors.
• Return-to-Home.

Designed with social media in mind

It’s not just the vertical mode that indicates this drone was designed for social media. There’s the new emphasis on close-up shots, so content creators can get better aerial shots of themselves.

And if you’re doing a standup, you can do that too. When connected to your phone, the DJI Fly app actually can capture audio. Even if there’s a slight whirring of propellers in the background, the app can automatically filter out propeller noise.

Here are some other key specs:

• Vertical shooting with a 4:3 CMOS sensor for high-quality content creation without cropping.
• Integrated audio recording with noise reduction.

DJI Flip: pros and cons

Pros

This drone is an easy, safe to fly entry point to drones — particularly for people whose priority isn’t so much flying drones but more documenting the other aspects of their lives. Here are the top 5 “pros” of the DJI Flip:

1. Safety First: Full-coverage propeller guards and automatic braking are unmatched for beginner safety.
2. Compact and Portable: Lightweight and foldable for on-the-go creators.
3. High-Quality Output: Excellent photo and video quality with intelligent modes to simplify complex shots.
4. Ease of Use: Intuitive controls with app and voice command options.
5. Affordable Entry Point: Starting at $439, it’s reasonably priced for its feature set.

Cons

But while I do love the Flip, it’s not for everyone. Here are some reasons you might skip it.

• Limited Professional Features: Lacks advanced obstacle avoidance and larger sensor sizes seen in higher-end DJI drones.
• Flight Time: While sufficient for beginners, 31 minutes may feel limiting for more intensive shoots.
• Wind Resistance: The lightweight design may struggle in windy conditions compared to heavier DJI models. My top overall travel camera drone, the DJI Air 3S, easily surpasses the Flip in terms of flight power.

How the DJI Flip fits into DJI’s lineup

The DJI Flip is positioned as a hybrid between the DJI Mini series and the Osmo Pocket series, blending the portability and affordability of the Mini with the vlogging and vertical video features of the Osmo Pocket (and of course, ability to fly).

It’s also worth considering the DJI Neo, another super tiny drone, versus the DJI Air 3S, which is a far more powerful camera drone.

DJI Flip vs. Neo vs. DJI Mini 4 Pro vs. DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Osmo Pocket 3

So how do those drones (and, well, the Osmo Pocket) compare side-by-side?

The Flip is basically a sweet spot product between the Air 3S and Neo. It’s pretty similar to the DJI Mini 4 Pro but with what I generally consider upgraded features (e.g. enclosed propellers, easy flight modes) that I’ll be curious to see if the Flip ends up canabalizing the Mini 4 Pro in popularity.

How to get your hands on the DJI Flip

You don’t even have to be patient. If you order today, you won’t have to wait long as shipping starts today. When you order, you’ll have the choice of a few different configurations, which are:

• DJI Flip with RC-N3 controller: $439
• DJI Flip with DJI RC 2 controller: $639
• DJI Flip Fly More Combo: $779

When you purchase the Fly More Combo, you get a few extras beyond what’s included in the DJI Flip with DJI RC 2 controller kit. You do get that upgraded RC 2 versus the usual RC-N3, as well as:

• Two additional batteries (3 total)
• Parallel Charging Hub
• 2 additional propellers
• Shoulder bag

You also have the option to add on DJI Care Refresh, which is DJI’s own protection plan. It’s pretty comprehensive and even covers accidental damage, including flyaway, collisions and water damage. The catch? Paying for DJI Care Refresh doesn’t automatically get you a new drone. You’ll have to pay a small additional charge, to have your damaged product replaced if an accident occurs — which is DJI’s way of ensuring you have some skin in the game.

DJI Flip: is it worth it?

The DJI Flip is an excellent entry-level drone for aspiring content creators and beginners looking for a safe, easy-to-use device. While it lacks some of the advanced features of higher-end DJI drones like the DJI Air 3S, its foldable design, intelligent shooting modes, and integration with social media platforms make it a standout choice for vloggers and travelers. It might even push out the DJI Mini 4 Pro as any sort of contender for drone pick.

Its safety-focused design makes it ideal for beginners, while its advanced camera features appeal to creators seeking high-quality content without professional-level complexity. If safety, simplicity, and social media content are your priorities, the DJI Flip offers tremendous value.

• Order the DJI Flip drone from Amazon, starting at $439
• Order the DJI Flip drone from B&H Photo, starting at $439.
• Order the DJI Flip drone from Drone Nerds, starting at $439.

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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:

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 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 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:

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:

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

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!

The post Intelligent Flight Batteries vs. Intelligent Flight Batteries Plus: more expensive doesn’t always mean better appeared first on The Drone Girl.

When it comes to deciding between the DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mavic 3 Pro, you’re not just choosing a drone—you’re defining your priorities as a pilot. These two DJI drones are powerhouses in their own right, offering distinct features to cater to different needs.

The DJI Air 3S stands out for its portability and versatility, making it an exceptional travel drone. On the other hand, the DJI Mavic 3 Pro is a professional-grade machine designed to deliver unmatched image quality.

I’ll get straight to the point at top: if you prioritize image quality and that alone (meaning other factors like portability and price don’t matter as much to you), go with the DJI Mavic 3 Pro. But for a more well-rounded drone that checks all the boxes — good value, lighter body, better obstacle avoidance, more powerful video transmission, etc. — then go with the DJI Air 3S.

But if you’re still curious to learn more about buying the DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mavic 3 Pro, read on for a detailed breakdown to help you decide:

DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mavic 3 Pro: quick specs, compared

Flight capabilities

Wind resistance: Both drones handle wind speeds up to 12 m/s, which is pretty powerful. Either are capable of flying in strong breezes and at higher altitudes — and both are far superior to cheaper DJI drones like those in the DJI Mini line. Though technically the same in terms of specs, my qualitative opinion says that the Mavic 3 Pro has a slight edge in stability during high-precision maneuvers, owing to its heavier weight.

Return to home: Both drones offer automatic return to home features. But the newer, DJI Air 3S has a more advanced version dubbed Next-Gen Smart RTH (Return-to-Home). Assuming enough light outside, the DJI Air 3S uses real-time vision positioning and map construction technologies to memorize flight paths. Note that the tech really only works best when it’s bright out. But when it’s dark out, a different sort of tech kicks in. That’s the forward-facing LiDAR, which can detect obstacles in low-light conditions.

Watch the Air 3S execute a flight returning to home automatically at 2:44 in this clip:

Winner: Tie.

Size and portability

The Air 3S is significantly lighter and more compact. For that reason, I generally consider it a better travel drone versus the DJI Mavic 3 Pro.

Even still though, the Mavic 3 Pro easily folds for transport. And by some dimensions, it’s actually smaller than the DJI Air 3. Still note the size difference (958 grams for the Mavic 3 Pro vs. 724 grams for the Air 3S). That might not seem like a ton, but it’s 32% heavier, which can weigh on you after traveling for a while.

Winner: Air 3S.

• Order the DJI Air 3S drone from Amazon, starting at $1,099.
• Order the DJI Air 3S drone from B&H Photo, starting at $1,099.
• Order the DJI Air 3S drone from Drone Nerds, starting at $1,099.

Camera quality

Here’s where the Mavic 3 Pro truly shines. Its triple-camera system, featuring a 4/3-inch Hasselblad wide sensor, provides unparalleled image quality, dynamic range, and color accuracy. Additionally, its two telephoto lenses offer versatility for cinematic shots. If your No. 1 priority is image quality, go with the DJI Mavic 3 Pro. It has more options and a larger sensor.

Not to mention, the Mavic 3 Pro’s ProRes recording options and seamless integration with professional workflows make it a filmmaker’s dream.

Then again, the DJI Air 3S is still impressive with its dual-camera system and 1-inch CMOS sensor. Even in normal color mode, Air 3S dual cameras can record 10-bit video using H.265 encoding. Additionally, the drone’s maximum ISO has been raised to 12,800, versus just 6,400 on the DJI Mavic 3 Pro. That shouldn’t mean a ton if you’re flying in the day or other bright conditions, but it’s significant for flying at low light. Here are some shots I took on my DJI Air 3S, so you can see what it looks like from a normal, non-professional photographer:

What’s more is that — in D-Log M and HLG color modes — the maximum ISO is raised to 3,200. Again, that means brighter, more detailed shots in darker scenarios. Depending on who you ask, 10-bit and ISO image quality on the DJI Air 3S means even crisper details than the DJI Mavic 3 Pro. 

Other considerations while filming

Besides the actual camera quality, the filming experience is slightly different on the two drones — and the Air 3S is better. For starters, the Air 3S has 42 GB of internal storage, versus just 8 GB on the Mavic 3 Pro. 8 GB is a good amount, but obviously 42 GB is far better. You could run hours of flights on 8GB.

Plus, the DJI Air 3S employs a more advanced video encoding compression algorithm that reduces video file sizes by more 30%. That helps you save even more storage space.

Winner: The DJI Air 3S has compelling qualities like more internal storage, but ultimately this goes to the Mavic 3 Pro.

• Order your Mavic 3 Pro now from Amazon.
• Order your Mavic 3 Pro now from B&H Photo.

Battery life

The Air 3S offers 45 minutes of flight time, slightly edging out the Mavic 3 Pro, which maxes out at 43 minutes. Both drones offer exceptional endurance, but the Air 3S provides a minor advantage for extended flights. I wouldn’t sweat over the 3 minutes of difference here, but technically the Air 3S wins.

Winner: Air 3S.

Related read: DJI Air 3 vs. DJI Air 3S: is it worth the upgrade?

Intelligent Flight Features

Both drones excel in obstacle avoidance, but the Air 3S takes it a step further with its LiDAR-assisted obstacle sensing. That basically means it is better at detecting obstacles, especially in low-light conditions. And yes, the Air 3S is the first DJI drone to feature forward-facing LiDAR.

As far as automatic flight modes, both drones have a strong set of smart features, including the ability to pre-program waypoints that the drone can automatically fly to. Other smart flight modes on both drones include:

• FocusTrack: Offers stable tracking shots in multiple directions via ActiveTrack 5.0, Spotlight, and Point of Interest (only available on the Hasselblad camera and the medium tele camera)
• MasterShots: With one tap, the drone automatically shoots, edits and adds soundtracks to automatically generate cinematic footage. (only available on the Hasselblad camera
• QuickShots: Allows the drones to fly in angles like Dronie, Rocket, Circle, and Helix (only available on the Hasselblad camera)

Making Panoramas on your drone

Now the Hasselblad camera on the DJI Mavic 3 Pro has something called Panorama mode, which composes a 100MP lossless panorama photo. That was unique to just the Mavic 3 Pro at the time.

But now with the DJI Air 3S, we have a similar feature called Free Panorama mode. The Air 3S now captures panoramic shots by stitching together multiple images with a manually selected subject or area. This mode is available in both DJI Air 3S cameras, both with slightly different styles. The wide-angle camera offers a broader Field of Vision, which is an efficiency play. I typically go with the medium tele camera when making panoramas, as it has less image distortion.

Tracking subjects

I consider the DJI Air 3S a slightly better follow-me drone than the Mavic 3 Pro (though both are excellent). The Air 3S earns its edge through two new features called ActiveTrack 360° and Subject Focusing. ActiveTrack 360° keeps any subject optimally in the frame by automatically planning a flight path and adjusting framing. Subject Focusing feature keeps your subject in focus even during manual flight or when the subject moves off-center.

Winner: DJI Air 3S

Price

At $1,099, the Air 3S is nearly half the price of the Mavic 3 Pro, which starts at $2,199. For travelers or hobbyists, the Air 3S offers outstanding value. And by many metrics, its specs are better anyway.

The one spec the Air 3S can’t compete on? That triple camera, including the Hasselblad. Given that, professionals seeking the best in imaging and features will find the Mavic 3 Pro worth the investment if they’re being judged highly on image quality.

For most people though, I don’t think they should fall for the “more expensive is better” trap. The DJI Air 3S is a brilliant piece of equipment.

Winner: Air 3S for budget-conscious buyers.

DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mavic 3 Pro: who is each drone best for?

• Choose the DJI Air 3S if…
  You’re a travel enthusiast or hobbyist who values portability, excellent performance, and affordability. It’s a perfect all-rounder for casual pilots and photographers.
  • Order the DJI Air 3S drone from Amazon, starting at $1,099.
  • Order the DJI Air 3S drone from B&H Photo, starting at $1,099.
  • Order the DJI Air 3S drone from Drone Nerds, starting at $1,099.

Read my full DJI Air 3S review.

• Choose the DJI Mavic 3 Pro if…
  You’re a professional filmmaker or photographer who demands the best in camera technology and advanced flight features. Its capabilities are unmatched for creating cinematic content.
  • Order your Mavic 3 Pro now from Amazon.
  • Order your Mavic 3 Pro now from B&H Photo.

Read my complete guide to the DJI Mavic 3 Pro.

The post DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mavic 3 Pro: even with a lower price, is the Air 3S actually better? appeared first on The Drone Girl.

When it comes to choosing between the DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mini 4 Pro, you’re not just picking a drone—you’re deciding what kind of pilot you want to be. Both of these DJI camera drones pack impressive features, but they cater to different audiences. The DJI Air 3S excels in raw power and versatility. Meanwhile the DJI Mini 4 Pro offers portability and simplicity without sacrificing too much performance.

The DJI Air 3S is my favorite overall drone for travelers. But the DJI Mini 4 Pro might still be better for some types of travelers. It weighs less than 250 grams, meaning recreational pilots in the U.S. don’t need to register it with the Federal Aviation Administration. That also just means it’s more portable for ultra-light packers. Plus, it’s slightly cheaper, starting at $759 for the DJI Mini 4 Pro vs. $1,099 for the DJI Air 3S.

So which should you choose between the DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mini 4 Pro? Here’s how to decide:

Comparing the DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mini 4 Pro on key specs

Generally speaking, the DJI Mini 4 Pro is the smaller, lighter and cheaper drone. The DJI Air 3S is bigger and more powerful. Here’s exactly what I mean, by way of a straightforward comparison table:

Let me break down what all those specs actually mean:

Flight capabilities: flight time, wind resistance and more

I call the DJI Air 3S my favorite drone for travel photographers for a reason: it holds up pretty well in bad weather conditions. When you’re traveling, you often don’t have a choice when you can fly. If it’s windy out but you’re traveling, you likely don’t have the luxury of “just coming back tomorrow.”

If you can’t wait for something like wind to die down, then the DJI Air 3S is your better bet. Built for stability, the Air 3S handles winds up to 12 m/s (26.8 mph) with ease. Plus, an alert in the controller makes it clear if you’re flying in too strong of winds so you can quickly get to safety.

That happened to me exactly when I took my Air 3S on a trip to Oahu. I was only in each town for a day (well, often just an hour) and wanted specific shots. I flew in conditions that I wouldn’t dare put my Mini 4 Pro in. Check out the aggressive palm tree swaying in the wind in that photo above. Meanwhile, the Air 3S held steady.

Still though, don’t expect to fly the Air 3S in a full storm. Keep it clear of rain, and avoid heavy winds.

But with the DJI Mini 4 Pro, you even have to keep it clear of strong breezes. Sure, the Mini 4 Pro has good wind resistance of 10.7 m/s (24 mph). That’s pretty exceptional for a sub-250g drone. However, its lightweight frame can be pushed around in particularly turbulent conditions. While it’s better than its predecessors, I’d hesitate to fly it in strong winds.

Winner: The DJI Air 3S reigns supreme for windy conditions, but the Mini 4 Pro is no slouch for its size.

• Order the DJI Air 3S drone from Amazon, starting at $1,099.
• Order the DJI Air 3S drone from B&H Photo, starting at $1,099.
• Order the DJI Air 3S drone from Drone Nerds, starting at $1,099.

Size and portability

The power in the wind has to do largely with the Air 3S’s bigger, heavier frame that can anchor it against gusts. But for travelers who want the smallest, lightest gear, that’s a drawback relative to the DJI Mini 4 Pro. At just 249g, the Mini 4 Pro is ultra-portable. In fact, I could fit it into a larger jacket pocket (like a snow jacket).

For what it’s worth, the DJI Air 3S is certainly compact and foldable relative to something like a Phantom or Inspire. Also note that the Air 3S’s 724g weight means it requires registration in most countries (including the U.S.), adding a bit of hassle.

Winner: The Mini 4 Pro is the ultimate choice for portability and convenience.

• Order the DJI Mini 4 Pro drone from Amazon now.
• Order the DJI Mini 4 drone from B&H Photo now.

Camera quality

The Air 3S’s dual camera system (wide and telephoto) is a step above the rest, allowing you to either frame vast landscapes or zoom in on details. There’s a 1-inch CMOS wide-angle, plus a 1/1.3-inch (medium tele). It captures 4K/60fps video, HDR, and 10-bit color, and its D-Log capabilities shine for professional-grade editing. Whether you’re framing a vast landscape or zooming in on details, the Air 3S delivers.

Here are some sample shots I filmed in Oahu to give you a sense of the image quality on the DJI Air 3S:

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is, well, simpler. It has a single 1/1.3-inch sensor that supports 4K/60fps and HDR. That’s good, but it’s just so hard to compete with the DJI Air 3S. Sure, the video quality is comparable to the Air 3S in good conditions, but it lacks a telephoto lens and advanced color profiles like D-Log. That might be limiting for creatives and professionals.

Winner: The DJI Air 3S takes the crown for advanced camera features. For what it’s worth, the Mini 4 Pro holds its own for casual or semi-professional use.

Battery life: who is the real winner here?

The DJI Air 3S offers up to 45 minutes of flight time. That’s impressive against all competitors, period.

Now the DJI Mini 4 Pro also offers 45 minutes, kind of. The primary battery gets you just 34 minutes of flight time, which is still pretty good. To get 45 minutes, you have to upgrade to the “Intelligent Flight Battery Plus,” which entails an extra cost. This battery is also heavier (which puts you over the 249 gram threshold).

The “Plus” battery for the Pro retails for $95 when purchased a la carte, so factor that into your decision if price is important to you. Or, you can buy a DJI Mini 4 Pro Fly More Combo Plus with DJI RC 2, which costs $1,159 and includes the Mini 4 Pro drone, a DJI RC 2 Remote Controller, three Intelligent Flight Battery Plus, and a few other accessories. That’s a better deal than purchasing everything a la carte (though three batteries might be overkill).

Winner: Tie

Related read: DJI Air 3 vs. DJI Air 3S: is it worth the upgrade?

Intelligent Features while flying

Both of these drones offer omnidirectional obstacle sensing, which allows the drone to see objects in front, behind and on sides. And when it does, rather than keep on flying, it’ll simply hover in front (or navigating intelligently around, depending on the flight mode). It’s impressive, and classifies it as somewhat crashproof.

Both drones have automatic flight modes that allow it to fly pre-programmed paths. With the DJI Mini 4 Pro, comes intelligent flight modes such as:

• MasterShots: Delivers dynamic camera movement templates tailored for portrait, close-up, and long-range shots, ensuring you nail every shot
• QuickShots: Provides Dronie, Circle, Helix, Rocket, Boomerang, and Asteroid moves for more style results 
• Hyperlapse: Provides Free, Waypoint, Circle, and Course Lock modes with unlimited shooting time and supports compositing while shooting 
• Panorama: Supports shooting 180, Wide Angle, Vertical, and Sphere panoramic photos to capture landscapes 

But the DJI Air 3S turns it up further with waypoint missions and Free Panorama mode. As far as obstacle sensing, it’s a smarter version of it thanks to forward-facing LiDAR technology, which is particularly useful if flying in low light.

The Air 3S also has a Next-Gen Smart RTH (Return-to-Home). It uses real-time vision positioning and map construction technologies to memorize flight paths, which is useful if you took off without connecting to satellite signals (which is sometimes inevitable when launching from certain locations, such as balconies).

Watch the Air 3S execute a flight returning to home automatically at 2:44 in this clip:

Winner: The Air 3S edges out for its slightly smarter features.

DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mini 4 Pro: other differences

Those are the big differences, but the DJI Air 3S has made some tweaks from the DJI Mini 4 Pro that don’t get talked about enough in the main points, but do make a real difference.

Built-in storage: I am loving the 42 GB of internal storage on the DJI Air 3S vs. just 2 GB on the DJI Mini 4 Pro. 2 GB is great if you’re in a pinch and, maybe, forgot your microSD card. 42 GB makes it so you don’t even need a microSD card. Less stuff is a win all around.

More space efficient: No, not that kind of space, as the Air 3S is certainly bigger. I’m talking about digital space. The Air 3S employs a more advanced video encoding compression algorithm that reduces video file sizes by over 30%. Yes, that’s without compromising image quality.

DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mini 4 Pro: which should you buy?

If you’re someone who likes traveling with your drone, either the DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mini 4 Pro are an excellent bet.

• The DJI Air 3S is best for you if… you’re a professional or enthusiast who prioritizes stability, advanced camera features, and creative control in challenging conditions. You don’t mind a larger size in favor of a more powerful drone. Check out my full DJI Air 3S review.
• The DJI Mini 4 Pro is best for you if… you value either size or price. For travelers or casual pilots seeking a lightweight, easy-to-use drone with excellent performance for its size. It’s not as powerful, but it’s neither as large nor as pricey. Check out my full DJI Mini 4 Pro review.

Are you looking for a professional-grade powerhouse (DJI Air 3S)?

• Order the DJI Air 3S drone from Amazon, starting at $1,099.
• Order the DJI Air 3S drone from B&H Photo, starting at $1,099.
• Order the DJI Air 3S drone from Drone Nerds, starting at $1,099.

Would you prefer an ultraportable companion (DJI Mini 4 Pro) for your next adventure?

• Order the DJI Mini 4 drone from Amazon now.
• Order the DJI Mini 4 drone from B&H Photo now.

Either way, DJI has you covered.

The post DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mini 4 Pro: how to choose the best drone for you appeared first on The Drone Girl.

FTC disclaimer: I did not get paid by DJI or any other party to write this DJI Air 3S review. I do make money off affiliate links, which means I make a small percent of any purchases you make from the links below. Thank you in advance for supporting The Drone Girl!

What’s the best drone for travel photographers? Right now, it’s the DJI Air 3S.

Especially due to its forward-facing LiDAR for enhanced obstacle detection, 42GB of internal storage, powerful build even in wind, and a dual-camera system, it’s an excellent companion for anyone serious about travel photography.

I just spent the week on the Hawaiian island of Oahu to put in the hard work for you — testing it out. When I was there, it was high humidity and, though I didn’t fly it in direct rain, it was always pretty rough weather. Despite the wind (in part to flying close to the ocean, as well as generally rougher weather), it held up. And even in Hawaii’s rainy, overcast November days, the Air 3S delivered bright, vibrant images.

Suffice to say, I’m in love with the DJI Air 3S. Let this DJI Air 3S review be proof!

• Order the DJI Air 3S drone from Amazon, starting at $1,099.
• Order the DJI Air 3S drone from B&H Photo, starting at $1,099.
• Order the DJI Air 3S drone from Drone Nerds, starting at $1,099.

If you’re someone who takes your drone with you when you travel, this is the best drone you can buy right now. But I will give you more to work with (and to make your case why this drone is worthwhile), with my complete DJI Air 3S review. Here’s an in-depth look at how the Air 3S compares with other DJI drones, its ideal users, and why it’s definitely worth the price.

DJI Air 3S: key features for travelers

There are all sorts of specs to note on the DJI Air 3S. But since I’m pegging this as the best drone for travel right now, here are the specs that traveler will especially love.

• Compact size: It weighs 724 grams and folds up to 214.19×100.63×89.17 mm. Even with the carrying case, which is included when you buy the Fly More Combo, it can easily fit into another backpack. I put the Air 3S shoulder bag inside a backpack alongside my laptop, charger and other essentials like my wallet and snacks. It all easily fit underneath the seat in front of me on the airplane.
• Forward-Facing LiDAR Technology: This allows for more precise obstacle detection, especially in low-light conditions. Especially when I’m someplace new and unfamiliar with the environment, I appreciate the peace of mind of improved obstacle avoidance.
• Panorama Mode: This mode makes it easier to automatically capture ultra-wide-angle shots without third-party software. Given how panoramas and vacations go together like peanut butter and jelly, this is so convenient.
• Enhanced Internal Storage: 42GB of built-in storage enables more time capturing and less time swapping SD cards. It’s also less worry about packing them! I’m always losing stuff when I travel, so not worrying about this is so easy.
• Powerful wind speed resistance: This drone is super robust, with 12 m/s of wind resistance. I was able to fly over a windy beach in Hawaii with no problem. There were situations where I got flying super high, and the controller alerted me that it was too windy and offered to return the drone to home. I generally didn’t take up the offer, but instead lowered my altitude. I loved the auto alerts in knowing when I was in a safe or unsafe wind zone. And even in fairly windy conditions, I could still fly. After all, I only had a few days in Hawaii and wanted to capture as much footage as I could. I would’t let wind stop me!

What’s new and improved from past DJI Air models

The first Mavic Air launched back in January 2018 as a small, portable drone much like what DJI’s entry-level drone at the time, the DJI Spark, offered. But it was a big upgrade from the Spark, as it had the ability to fold up like the Mavic Pro to become even smaller, plus more powerful features included gesture control, the ability to shoot 4K video, plus features like TapFly and ActiveTrack.

Since then, the Mavic Air line has flourished, serving a sweet spot between smaller drones like the DJI Mini series (which don’t succeed as well in rough conditions like wind) versus the DJI Mavic series, which sits at a price point higher than what many photographers can afford.

And then DJI dropped the DJI Air 3S on Oct. 15, starting at $1,099. That’s the same price as the DJI Air 3 upon its launch — yet this one is a clear upgrade.

Here’s a look at how the Air 3S has advanced from previous models in the Air series:

Clearly the DJI Air 3S brings substantial upgrades in obstacle sensing, storage, and camera quality. And sure, while the Air 3 is a strong drone in its own right, the Air 3S’s features cater to travelers wanting more flexibility and ease when capturing high-quality content.

Related read: DJI Air 3 vs. DJI Air 3S: is it worth the upgrade?

4 things I love the most about the DJI Air 3S

There’s a lot to love about this drone. But these were my four personal favorite features.

Camera

The DJI Air 3S truly shines with its camera upgrades, providing sharp, high-resolution footage. Check out my YouTube video embedded just above this paragraph to see shots in flight!

With its larger sensor (1-inch CMOS, 50MP Effective Pixels), higher dynamic range, and better low-light performance, this drone can shoot largely professional-grade images and videos that would be more than high-enough quality for something like a wedding or concert recording.

Battery life

The extended battery life of the DJI Air 3S (45 minutes) relative to something like the DJI Mini 4K (just 31 minutes) offers incredible convenience. I felt okay taking long flights (and multiple flights throughout one roadtrip around the island of Oahu, sans car charger) without constantly worrying about recharging.

Easy footage transfer

DJI has streamlined its footage transfer process on the Air 3S, coming a long way from the clunky days of connecting GoPro cameras back in the Phantom 1 days. Before, editing footage was a headache.

Nowadays, it’s quick and efficient to get content from the drone to your phone (and ultimately Instagram, or wherever you post). After flying, I powered on the drone, opened the DJI Fly App, and instantly downloaded my footage. This convenience allowed me to upload shots to my Instagram (@thedronegirl) right after flying!

Wind resistance

Despite less-than-ideal weather conditions during my time in Oahu, the Air 3S — with its 12 m/s wind speed resistance — handled Hawaii’s gusty winds impressively. Normally, with a lighter drone or in a less robust model, I’d wait for calmer weather. I’m generally a risk-averse pilot! Alas, I didn’t have the luxury of time on this trip. Thankfully, the Air 3S’s advanced wind resistance allowed me to fly anyway, capturing the footage I needed even on rough wind days.

What kind of drone pilot is the DJI Air 3S best for?

The DJI Air 3S is generally good for you if you identify as a…

• Travel photographer: Its high-resolution camera and long flight time makes capturing landscapes, beaches and cities easy.
• Intermediate to advanced users: This drone is easy to fly but has enough features to appeal to experienced pilots seeking pro-level footage.
• Corporate and government professionals: Privacy-conscious users benefit from Local Data Mode, making the Air 3S suitable for sensitive environments.
• Outdoor adventurers: Whether you’re hiking, surfing, or exploring, the Air 3S is rugged enough to handle various conditions.

That said, skip the DJI Air 3S if you identify as a…

• Casual hobbyist or beginner: This drone is overkill if you’d rather have a simple, budget-friendly drone. For those folks, the DJI Neo or DJI Mini 4K is better. After all, they’re simpler aircraft with a lower price tag. And between those, which s better? Check out my breakdown of the DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K.
• Pilot flying in complex landscapes:  People who only plan to fly in urban or densely populated areas might be frustrated by the potential for signal interference. They might also get tripped up byr the no-fly restrictions common in these locations. (Of course, always fly only in legal airspace!) DJI’s geo-fencing software is great for most people as it largely prevents user error from flying in places you’re not supposed to. But some people would rather fly in places they’re not supposed to. In that case, find a DJI alternative.
• Ultra-light traveler: I said this is a great travel drone, but it’s still much bulkier than the Mini line. Those prioritizing ultra-portability over capability may still find the Air 3S to be a bit too bulky. If you still want high-end camera specs but want something pocket-sized (I’m looking at you, carry-on only travelers), go with the DJI Mini 4 Pro.

Deciding between the DJI Air 3S versus other drones

I dropped a bunch of drone names above. Want to learn more? Here’s a brief comparison of the DJI Air 3S against its closest competitors.

DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mini 4 Pro

Both the DJI Air 3S and Mini 4 Pro are travel-friendly (largely given their small size). But, they differ in features and target users. Here’s how they compare:

At just 249 grams, the Mini 4 Pro is much more portable. It’s also cheaper. And because it weighs under 250 grams, it’s exempt from many forms of regulation. Notably, the Mini 4 Pro does not need to be registered with the FAA for recreational operations. It also does not need to be Remote ID compliant. 

However, the Air 3S has superior flight time, camera quality and obstacle-sensing tech. That makes it a better choice for those prioritizing high-end footage and longer flights.

• Order the DJI Mini 4 drone from Amazon now.
• Order the DJI Mini 4 drone from B&H Photo now.

DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mavic 3 Pro

The Mavic 3 Pro is DJI’s top-tier model, so how does the more budget-friendly Air 3S compare? Do you really need to pay roughly twice as much for the DJI Mavic 3 Pro?

The Mavic 3 Pro is the professional’s choice with more versatile lenses and ProRes recording. But if you’re a traveler wanting excellent quality without extra weight and cost, the Air 3S strikes that balance.

• Order your Mavic 3 Pro now from Amazon.
• Order your Mavic 3 Pro now from B&H Photo.

Is the DJI Air 3S worth the price?

Starting at $1,099, the Air 3S is more expensive than beginner drones. Still, it’s well below the Mavic 3 Pro’s price tag. For price sensitive pilots, there are plenty of great, cheap DJI drones under $600.

The cheapest DJI drone that I recommend is the DJI Neo, which is just $199. Of course, the DJI Air 3S and Neo are very different drones, and it’s hardly fair to compare them. The Neo is a selfie or indoor drone. The Air 3S is for pilots who want big, sweeping shots but at a lower price (and with a few less specs) than the DJI Mavic 3.

Here’s a look at the available configurations:

I generally recommend the Fly More Combo with DJI RC 2. Sure, the shoulder bag and extra batteries are nice. But, the real reason to go with it is for the DJI RC 2. The RC 2 controller has a built-in screen, which eliminates the need to connect a smartphone. That removes one major friction point: needing to make sure your phone is charged and connected (cables, ugh). With just one connection point, this is much better for pilots who want to be in the air quickly.

Annoyingly, that brings the price up by $500. I think it’s worth it, as flying is so much more seamless and enjoyable. You’ll get much more use out of the drone. And if you’re judging the value by price per flight, I guarantee you’ll fly more with the DJI RC 2 versus the DJI RC-N3. Do some girl math, and more flights = more value, which is worth the upgrade.

DJI Air 3S review: the final verdict

The DJI Air 3S is a premium travel drone that combines high-end features with portability. From forward-facing LiDAR for safer navigation to a spacious 42GB storage capacity, it excels in ease of use, image quality and travel readiness. Sure, it’s priced above entry-level models, so it’s not for everyone. But, the Air 3S’s features make it worthwhile for travelers and photographers seeking a high-quality, user-friendly drone.

Whether you’re shooting panoramic cityscapes or ocean waves (like I did in Hawaii), the Air 3S is best for anyone wanting easy-to-gather, high-quality aerial footage.

• Order the DJI Air 3S drone from Amazon, starting at $1,099.
• Order the DJI Air 3S drone from B&H Photo, starting at $1,099.
• Order the DJI Air 3S drone from Drone Nerds, starting at $1,099.

FTC disclaimer: No, DJI does NOT pay me for reviews!

I make money through affiliate links. When you buy a drone through one of the links in this guide, I do make a small commission. Thanks in advance for considering shopping through my site! It keeps more guides like this DJI Air 3S review coming!

The post DJI Air 3S review: A travel-ready powerhouse for drone photographers appeared first on The Drone Girl.

Both DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K are two excellent drones from drone-making powerhouse DJI. They’re both super affordable, the DJI Neo priced at $199 and the Mini 4K at $299. Both have excellent cameras, and are easy to fly.

But choosing the right entry-level drone can make or break your experience. And while both drones are products I’d recommend in general, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend both for all use cases, as both are actually extremely different in terms of their power output and how you fly them.

Now I’ll save you a click and give you the tl;dr:

• If you’re looking for a simple, safe, and easy-to-fly drone for close-up shots: Go with the DJI Neo.
• If you want a more traditional drone with longer flight times and more range: Go with the DJI Mini 4K.

But what does that mean in practice? I’ve extensively reviewed both drones, and think they’re both great, albeit for very different types of people and situations. So with that, here’s a breakdown of the DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K, so you can know which drone is best for you:

DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K: a head-to-head comparison table

Before I dive deep into these drones, here are some quick, key differences on both numerical specs and some operational differences:

So what does all that mean in practice? Read on to my comparison of the DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K:

Key differences between the DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K

1. Price

The DJI Neo retails for $199, making it the cheapest DJI drone you can buy right now.

For just $100 more, though, you can get the DJI Mini 4K, which at $299 adds meaningful upgrades like a controller, longer battery life, and expanded range. While the $100 difference may seem steep as a percentage, it could be worth it for the added capabilities.

What’s the price with controller?

Especially noticeable in that price difference is the lack of controller. For Neo pilots who are fine with just the palm takeoff into programmed flight modes, or controller it manually via the app, then you can budget simply the $199 price tag. But if you think you’d like to upgrade to a controller, budget more. The DJI Neo is currently compatible with the DJI RC 2, DJI RC-N2, and DJI RC-N3 controllers.

The DJI RC-N2 is not currently for sale (unless you can find it used or through a third-party). Otherwise your cheapest option is the DJI RC-N3 remote controller, which retails for $129. The $129 RC-N3 plus $199 Neo actually puts you at $328 — about $30 more than the DJI Mini 4K. If you demand a controller, then that actually makes the DJI Mini 4K the cheapest DJI drone.

Winner: DJI Neo

Winner (with controller): DJI Mini 4K

2. Flight time

One of the most significant differences is flight time. The DJI Neo tops out at 18 minutes, whereas the Mini 4K can fly up to 31 minutes. For anyone who needs extra time to set up shots or take multiple takes, that extra 13 minutes can be crucial.

Winner: DJI Mini 4K

3. Control and range

With its easy hand-launch, WiFi-based phone control, the DJI Neo is designed for simplicity. However, this simplicity limits its range, and WiFi-based control may feel limited if you’re trying to fly higher or farther. The DJI Mini 4K’s dedicated controller brings a stronger signal and extended range, giving you more room to explore and capture sweeping shots from farther away.

Winner: DJI Mini 4K

4. Learning Curve

The DJI Neo’s hand-launch style and built-in prop guards make it extremely approachable—ideal for anyone nervous about flying. The Mini 4K requires a bit more confidence, as it uses a traditional takeoff with a full controller, but it’s still manageable for beginners who want a more “pilot-like” experience.

Watch how the unique, hand-launch style of the DJI Neo works in practice, via my first-ever drone flight:

Winner: DJI Neo

DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K: where each drone excels

Both drones have their pros and cons. Here’s where each excels:

The DJI Neo

The DJI Neo shines in scenarios where quick, close-up shots are all you need. It’s ideal for vloggers or Instagrammers who want a few aerial shots. Imagine it floating around as you trick-or-treat, or it giving you a cool top-down view of a picnic. With its basic follow-me function, it’s like a selfie cam that hovers close.

But don’t expect a powerful tracking feature. This isn’t a true follow-me drone. And it definitely isn’t the drone for mountain bikers or high-speed runners. It’s best for easy, fun shots at close range.

• Buy DJI Neo now from Adorama for $199.
• Buy DJI Neo now from Amazon for $199.
• Buy DJI Neo now from B&H Photo for $199.
• Buy DJI Neo now from Drone Nerds for $199.

If you’re looking for an easy, hands-free way to get a few cool aerial shots without diving deep into the world of drone piloting, then DJI Neo is right up your alley. No controller needed, just launch from your hand. Its built-in prop guards, toy-like feel, and straightforward WiFi-based control make it feel safe and manageable, even around kids.

DJI Mini 4K

The DJI Mini 4K brings greater freedom and flexibility to capture bigger, bolder shots. If you envision yourself flying a bit higher and wider—like recording a major event from above or capturing a scenic view—the Mini 4K can deliver. With extended flight time and a stronger controller connection, it’s the better choice if you want to try some “real” drone piloting.

• Purchase the DJI Mini 4K now for $299 on Amazon.

For those who want a bit more—like extended range, altitude, and a longer flight time—the DJI Mini 4K is for you. This is for the aspiring “drone person” who wants to experiment with real piloting skills and take higher, more expansive shots before upgrading to perhaps a better camera drone, like the DJI Mini 4 Pro. It’s a bit pricier, but with its dedicated controller and double the flight time relative to the DJI Neo, the Mini 4K gives you room to explore and grow your piloting skills.

How to pick between the DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K

• If you’re after a simple, safe, hands-off way to get unique angles without worrying about piloting, the DJI Neo is a great choice. It’s beginner-friendly and feels safe enough to fly around kids, making it a fun tool for casual shots.
• If you’re ready for a more robust drone experience, with room to explore and grow your skills, go for the DJI Mini 4K. It’s a bit pricier, but the extra flight time, extended range, and traditional controls are well worth it for anyone looking to embrace the world of drones.

Whether you’re looking for an easy, toy-like experience or a gateway into the world of drone flying, DJI’s got you covered with these two solid options. Happy flying!

The post DJI Neo vs. DJI Mini 4K: which of these budget-minded DJI drones is better for you? appeared first on The Drone Girl.