Next up in our “Ask Drone Girl” series is a question about upgrading to the DJI Air 3S vs Air 2 drones. If you have a question for Drone Girl, contact her here. Note, the following question has been edited for clarity and brevity.
I recently planted my DJI Air 2 in a treetop (RIP) and am debating my next move. Should I get a refurbished Air 2S from DJI or go big with the Air 3S and its dedicated controller? I’m a hobbyist but have had my Part 107 for three years (yes, I did my training update which I think most don’t do!).
I love your enthusiasm for drones! Losing an Air 2 in a treetop is a tough break, but it sounds like you’re ready for an upgrade that not only improves your experience but also supports your potential future business ventures. I promise, the DJI Air 3S is much easier to fly.
- 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.
DJI Air 3S vs Air 2: which is right for you?
If budget is a key factor, the refurbished Air 2S is still a great drone with a solid 1-inch sensor for high-quality images. You and I both say refurbished, because DJI has since ceased production. Though, you can find new models on third-party retailers including Amazon and B&H Photo.
However, given that you’re eyeing an easier setup and considering future commercial applications, the Air 3S is a strong choice. It’s a significant improvement from the 2 and 2s, and it’s (relatively speaking) not that much more expensive when looking at the base models.
Some highlights of the DJI Air 3S include that it has dual cameras (wide-angle and medium tele), significantly better battery life (45 minutes vs. 31 minutes on the Air 2S), and, most importantly, a dedicated controller (DJI RC 2), which eliminates the need for a phone hookup.
Here’s how these drones look on key specs, side-by-side:
| DJI Air 2 | DJI Air 2S | DJI Air 3S | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camera Sensor | 1/2″ CMOS | 1″ CMOS | Wide: 1/1.3″ CMOS, Medium Tele: 1/1.3″ CMOS |
| Flight Time | 34 minutes | 31 minutes | 45 minutes |
| Obstacle Avoidance | Forward, backward, downward | 4-way (forward, backward, downward, upward) | Omnidirectional binocular vision system, supplemented with forward-facing LiDAR and an infrared sensor at the bottom of the aircraft |
| Transmission System | OcuSync 2.0 | O3 | O4 |
| Internal Storage | 8GB | 8GB | 42GB |
| Max Wind Resistance | 10.7 m/s | 10.7 m/s | 12 m/s |
| Weight | 570g | 595g | 724g |
| Price of base model with standard controller | $820 | $894 | $1,099 (with DJI RC-N3 controller) |
| Price of Fly More Combo with upgraded controller | n/a | $1,087 (used) | $1,599 (with RC 2) |
Note that prices can vary, particularly on the DJI Air 2 and DJI Air 2S, as DJI has ceased production on both drones. These prices are based on major retailers, which resell their existing stock of drones, but are more likely to change than prices on products still in production. Of course, all prices can change — especially with recent China tariff news.
And in one example on my chart, the Air 2S with upgraded controller, we’re looking at the price for a used model. You mentioned being willing to buy a refurbished version of the Air 2S. Refurbished or used drones can be worth it — especially if cost is a priority.
But, read the description carefully. In some cases, refurbished drones are almost as good as buying new if it’s simply a product that was opened, never used and returned — but now can no longer be sold as brand new.
Other types of used or refurbished drones might actually have issues that aren’t worth the risk. For example, in the example of the $1,087 used DJI Air 2S, Adorama clearly spells out the issues, including that it’s missing a bunch of cables. That might not be a big deal if you have the cables anyway (and hey, you already had a DJI Air 2 that crashed into a tree, but you likely have the cables still). But, the savings on a used version might not be worth the headache in dealing with a used drone that is missing pieces.
And something negative to consider when buying a drone that’s both used and out of production: you won’t get the level of support you’d expect. Especially if you need to buy replacement parts, you’ll have a tough time finding them.
DJI Air 3S vs Air 2: how to choose
Since you already have your Part 107, the Air 3S could be a great step toward professional work, whether that’s offering sailing footage, getting into real estate footage of lighthouses, doing inspections or working in an advanced field like mapping.
Key upgrades like O4 transmission and that longer flight time will make professional work much easier.
Yes, the DJI Air 3S is more expensive. But especially because you want the controller with the built-in screen (that’s the RC 2 rather than the RC-N3), it’s better to just buy it new with the DJI Air 3S then go for a refurbished model.
- Related read: DJI Air 3 vs. DJI Air 3S: is it worth the upgrade?
- Related read: DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mini 4 Pro: how to choose the best drone for you
If you’re looking for an easy, high-quality drone for both personal and potential business use, go for the Air 3S. It’s a powerful, versatile tool that will elevate your flying experience while keeping future opportunities open.
- 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.
Happy flying!
If you have a question for Drone Girl, contact her here.
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