Choosing the best DJI Drone for you
DJI makes the best drones in the business, but which model is right for you? We run through the options.
When it comes to drones, one manufacturer stands out above the rest: DJI. DJI has been the go-to brand for high-quality aerial photography and flawless flying since the Phantom 1 debuted in 2013. If you’ve decided to purchase a DJI drone, we believe you’ve made an excellent decision. Few competitors can match DJI’s flying machines in terms of quality, dependability, and value.
The next step is to decide which one to go with. DJI has a diverse product line that includes everything from low-cost beginner drones to full-fledged Hollywood production machines, making it difficult to decide which one is best for you. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.
In this guide, we’ll go over each model in DJI’s consumer lineup and give you a quick rundown of their features. We’ll only be looking at consumer models, so more niche drones like the professional (and expensive) Inspire and Matrice series are out of the question, but most people will find what they’re looking for right here. So, let’s get started.
DJI Mini 4 Pro – Best DJI Drone In Our Opinion
We believe the DJI Mini 4 Pro is the best drone for the vast majority of consumers. It’s small and light, making it easy to transport while also making it less intimidating to both the pilot and bystanders. Furthermore, because it weighs less than 250g, it usually has fewer rules and regulations to follow, depending on where you live.
While it is small, don’t let that fool you into thinking it is lacking in specifications. The Mini 4 Pro can still shoot in 4K at 100fps and is one of DJI’s only drones that can shoot in true vertical format, thanks to a unique gimbal that can rotate 90 degrees.
It also has omnidirectional obstacle avoidance sensors, which provide excellent protection from all angles and enable fully autonomous flight modes such as ActiveTrack and MasterShots. The only disadvantage is that it is expensive and may not be the best choice when the wind picks up.
DJI Air 3 – Best Dual Camera DJI Drone
If you want something a little more professional, with a lot more wind resistance, our top pick is the DJI Air 3. In terms of price, size, and performance, this drone falls perfectly between the Mini 3 Pro and the much more expensive Mavic 3.
Because the Air has two cameras, you can choose between a standard wide-angle drone shot and a much closer 70mm equivalent telephoto shot. This gives your drone shots a whole new dimension and can really make your footage stand out from the crowd. It’s also a beast when it comes to slow motion, offering up to 4K 100fps recording for some really impressive action shots.
DJI Mini 3 – Best Budget DJI Drone
The DJI Mini 3 was released after the Pro model, and it’s essentially a stripped-down version with a lower price point. You still get a 1/1.3-inch sensor capable of recording up to 4K 30fps in true vertical mode. It also flies just as well. In fact, because it is slightly lighter, the Mini 3 can fly for longer on the standard battery.
However, the absence of obstacle avoidance sensors makes it difficult to recommend for beginners, despite its low price. It also uses an older O2 transmission system, so it cannot travel as far as its more expensive sibling.
If you’re on a tight budget and want a small drone that can take high-quality photos and videos, the Mini 3 is an excellent choice. Just be cautious, because without obstacle avoidance to assist you, you may find yourself climbing trees more frequently than you’d like.
DJI Mavic 3 Pro – Best DJI Drone For Professionals
The DJI Mavic 3 Pro is the company’s flagship consumer drone. It has three cameras, so you can always find the appropriate focal length for the situation. It’s also an impressive flier, with some of the fastest speeds and longest flight times in this category.
It’s an expensive drone, but if you’re serious about filmmaking, it could be well worth the investment, especially considering it’s a fraction of the price of the Inspire 3, the next step up.
For the typical user. The Mavic series is a little too large, expensive, and intimidating for us, but they’re fantastic for aspiring pros. The main camera is the star of the show, with a massive 4/3 sensor, adjustable aperture, and recording speeds of up to 5.1k 50fps.
DJI Mavic 3 Classic – Best Value Pro DJI Drone
The Mavic 3 Classic is nearly identical to the Mavic 3 Pro, with the main difference being that it only has one camera. The main camera on the Mavic 3 Pro is already impressive, so if you’re not going to experiment with different lenses, the Mavic 3 Classic will save you a lot of money.
As a result of the slightly lighter craft, you get slightly longer flight times, 46 minutes rather than 43. Other than that, you’ll find all the same features, so if you prefer a wide-angle shot, this could be the model for you.
DJI Avata – Best DJI FPV Drone
The DJI Avata is a completely different type of drone than the rest of DJI’s lineup. It’s a first-person view (FPV) drone, and these types of drones are typically flown with video goggles on your head to provide an immersive flying experience.
FPV drones, which were popularized by RC hobbyists, have historically had a very steep learning curve, with fully manual controls, no sensors, and no return-to-home functionality. The DJI Avata is a much more accessible way to enjoy this thrilling style of flight, with simplified controls, altitude hold, emergency braking, return to home, and other features.
But it’s not just about having fun flying; the Avata can capture stunning images that DJI’s other drones simply cannot. Diving and swooping like a bird gives you a completely different perspective on your subject. Just be aware that crashes are unavoidable, so this type of drone is not for the faint of heart.
How to choose the right DJI drone for you?
With so many unique models in DJI’s lineup, it can be difficult to select the best drone for your needs. In an effort to assist, here are a few things we recommend considering before taking the plunge.
What do you need a drone for?
Choosing the best DJI drone is all about focusing on the features that are important to you. What enticed you to purchase a drone in the first place? Do you want to make stunning videos for your YouTube channel, or do you prefer to take photographs? Perhaps you simply want to fly for the thrill of it?
The majority of the distinction between these models comes in the form of video and photo specifications, so determining what you’re likely to want from your drone should help you narrow down your options. If you just want to fly for fun, a less expensive option, or an FPV model if you’re feeling adventurous, will suffice.
For example, we enjoy being able to film ourselves with ActiveTrack, which means we prefer drones with obstacle avoidance sensors. And, because we don’t need something as expensive as a Mavic, the Mini 3 Pro and Air 3 are the front runners for our needs.
What are the local regulations?
Before you make a purchase, make sure you know what you can legally fly in your area. A heavier craft will usually require some kind of certification before you take to the skies, whereas a drone from the Mini series may be much less restricted.
