13 Nov
Blog

DJI Mavic 3 Review: A Return to Flagship Territory

dji mavic 3 hands on rating 17 out of 21

DJI Mavic 3

RRP $ 2,200.00

"This is the drone for the serious user who wants the best of the best in a portable package."

advantages

  • Versatile dual camera system

  • Flies incredibly smooth

  • Above average battery life

  • Excellent dynamic range

disadvantage

  • Expensive costs

  • Telephoto lens not good for low light

Never the one who sits still and lets the competition take a little of the limelight, DJI has set a wild pace in recent years. Since the release of the Mavic 2 series in 2018, the company has diversified its fabulous range of drones. Well, it's back to where it all started with a real successor in the DJI Mavic 3.

Instead of splitting it into two versions like its predecessor, the Mavic 3 combines everything in one package – complete with a Hasselblad dual camera system with a telephoto zoom lens. Seriously, it pretty much covers anything professional users could want. Knowing this, DJI is the only one that DJI competes with.

draft

Unsurprisingly, the Mavic 3 follows the same clean design language that has followed the company's range of products. Although, at 895 grams, it's technically bigger and heavier than that Mini 2 and Air 2S, the Mavic 3 still features the same foldable design DJI is known for, which makes it easy to travel. Throw it in a backpack with the controller and spare batteries, you still have room for all your other normal gear.

DJI Mavic 3 hovers in the air.John Velasco / Digital Trends

I highly recommend buying the Fly More Combo just because for the extra cost ($ 2,200 versus $ 3,000) you can get the replacement batteries, ND filters, charging station, and the most versatile drone bag I've ever seen. The sturdy fabric of the bag makes it feel sturdy, but I'm particularly amazed that it can be transformed from a shoulder bag into a backpack.

The design is not particularly innovative here. We've seen it countless times, but at least it's solidly built. There's a difference between its build quality and its entry-level drone in the Mini 2 – this one feels a lot thinner!

camera

The focus here is on the Hasselblad dual camera system that the Mavic 3 carries. Without question, it's what most folks serious about drones will pay attention to the most – and since it contains the largest sensor in the Mavic line, there are no surprises about its performance.

Close up of the camera on DJI Mavic 3.John Velasco / Digital Trends

Let me start with the main camera: a 20 megapixel 4/3 CMOS sensor that can record videos at 5.1K / 50fps, 4K / 120fps. When it comes to snapshots, they are accompanied by sharp detail and incredible dynamic range. The latter is worth describing in more detail because I'm impressed with how well it handles such contrasting light sources – it degrades highlights to compensate for the exposure of the rest of the scene. It is a joy to use for all types of aerial photography, ensuring that it is well equipped to handle it in all conditions.

The video quality of the Mavic 3 is just as impressive. Even if I don't use many of the Mavic 3's functions enough, there is a Pro mode to adjust video settings in the blink of an eye, and the option for 10-bit D-Log – perfect for everyone who who want to get the most out of the camera. Needless to say, the 5.1K video recording is handy for post-production, but I left it at 4K for the majority because it is less stressful on my computer.

When it comes to low light, this is still an area of ​​possibility in my opinion – just because shadows tend to have more noise, which becomes more noticeable if you decide to increase the exposure in post-processing. Videos in particular can still appear noisy in the shade, but their low-light performance is by and large significantly better than that of the Mini 2 and Air 2S.

The 162mm f / 4.4 aperture telephoto lens is useful if you know how to use it effectively. Technically, the drone switches to the secondary telephoto lens when it reaches the 7x zoom level – and I can tell the difference in real time because the image looks sharper on my phone. In addition, including the maximum 28x zoom, the quality will decrease as all of these zoom levels are nothing more than digital zooms.

It is a pleasure to use for all types of aerial photography.

I really love how I can get closer to a subject without actually having to control the drone to get closer. I can still be at a decent distance and get good shots. However, you will need some practice to keep the subject in the frame, as you will have to compensate for the zoom, which makes the controls more sensitive.

  • 1.
    DJI Mavic 3 1x zoom.
  • 2.
    DJI Mavic 3 7x zoom.
  • 3.
    DJI Mavic 3 28x hybrid zoom.

You should only use the telephoto lens when the lighting is good, just because it cannot be used in low light. In fact, I found that the Mavic 3 struggled to lock focus with the zoom lens when it was dark. Also, it doesn't help that the zoom lens quality can be riddled with noise – it just isn't meant for low light.

Controls

I've always enjoyed flying DJI's drones. The same smooth and responsive controls I've seen on previous DJI drones, the Mini 2 and Air 2S, can be seen here on the Mavic 3. The remote control is the same too, so I didn't have to spend time adjusting it. Part of the reason I enjoyed flying it is because of the new OS3 + technology which delivered a reliable 1080p feed to my phone at 60 frames per second here. I was really able to get a feel for how tightly the controls shift into sport mode, which allows you to push the Mavic 3 to its speed limits.

DJI Mavic 3 Fly More combo content.John Velasco / Digital Trends

The only hiccups I encountered while piloting the drone was when I was finishing a recording. Sometimes the feed froze for a brief moment, which was probably due to the microSD card I was using. So you should use one that can write to the card faster to avoid this particular problem.

Another reason the Mavic 3 is so comfortable to use is because of the omnidirectional obstacle sensors around the drone. The front, back, bottom and top of the drone are all covered so that first-time flyers or relatively young pilots can fly safely. These sensors help inform the drone if there is an obstacle in its flight path, such as a tree nearby.

Close-up of the omnidirectional sensors on the DJI Mavic 3.John Velasco / Digital Trends

The only thing missing from my tests was ActiveTrack 5.0, the system that would allow the Mavic 3 to fly autonomously while tracking a subject. Unfortunately, the firmware to enable this feature won't be available until January 2022 – along with other modes like MasterShots, Quickshots, and Panorama. Even so, I tested the Mavic 3's auto-tracking system by selecting a subject, either by selecting it on the screen or by drawing a frame around the subject on my phone. From there I was able to fly the drone while the camera remained fixed on the subject. It works fine of course, but I'm excited to see how the Mavic 3 will fly itself when ActiveTrack 5.0 is available.

battery

Sure, the Mavic 3's 47 mph top speed and 9.3 miles of transmission range should be applauded – mainly because I can fly the drone further than previous drones in the series. But the other notable thing is the 46 minute flight time. That's incredibly long compared to the Mini 2 and Air 2S, so I enjoyed flying the Mavic 3 without worrying about swapping out a new one frequently. However, in my tests, I found that the battery life got in the region of 35 minutes longer. That's still damn respectable in my book!

characteristics

Experienced pilots will eat up the drone's incredible camera performance and versatility to capture breathtaking content with its dual camera system. With this parallax effect, I was able to take gentle pans, but that was partly due to my experience. What is missing are the other recording modes that make DJI's drones easy to use, even for beginners who don't have a lot of flight time under their belt.

I can fly the drone further than previous drones in the series.

In particular, both MasterShots and Quickshots were inaccessible with the firmware I tested. However, having tried them both on the previous DJI Air 2S, I'm confident that they will work flawlessly on the Mavic 3. This is one of the Mavic 3's many attractions as it appeals to beginners, enthusiasts, and professionals alike.

DJI Mavic 3 hovers in the air.John Velasco / Digital Trends

I'm not saying the DJI Mavic 3 should be the drone you should buy when you're just starting out, but if you can afford it, there are tons of features to use to get you started. Instead, it is the pro user who is really going to get the most out of the Mavic 3 for commercial purposes.

Our opinion

DJI didn't take a moment to breathe. So when you think about what has happened in the past 3 years, it's incredible that the company continues to push the limits with its drones. After tackling the entry-level and mid-range market with its final drones, the DJI Mavic 3 screams out onto the stage to set the bar in the series. In fact, it's the one out there for those who are serious about their drone photography and cinematography – but I wouldn't go far to say it's the best drone out there.

In particular, the $ 2,200 startup cost is a significant investment for the average consumer. You can buy four DJI Mini 2 drones for the price of just one Mavic 3. Knowing this, it can be argued that many of its features are exaggerated if not used frequently. To reiterate, the Mavic 3 is for the serious user.

Is there a better alternative?

Fortunately, DJI has a few drones that are worth a look. The DJI Air 2S is a drone that bridges the gap between beginners and professionals, and it's only half the price of the Mavic 3. Alternatively, I can't overstate the appeal of the DJI Mini 2 as the perfect entry-level drone.

How long it will take?

Since it is largely considered the flagship drone in the DJI range, the Mavic 3 is solidly made from sturdy materials. Everything about its build quality and construction gives me confidence that it will work really well in the long run. There's a one-year limited warranty that covers defects, but you can purchase extended warranties through DJI that also covers damage.

Should you buy it?

You bet! If you want the best quality footage in a portable drone, you won't find anything better than the Mavic 3.

Editor's recommendations



05 Nov
Blog

DJI Action 2 Review: Reinventing the Action Camera

DJI action 2.

"With its unique modular design and easily replaceable batteries, the Action 2 breaks the mold that has dictated the design of action cameras for decades."

advantages

  • Versatile and unique modular design

  • Remarkably small and light

  • Great picture quality

  • Gimble-like video stabilization

  • Fantastic audio recording function

disadvantage

  • The image quality is not quite as sharp as with GoPro

  • Low light performance isn't that great

When DJI launched the original Osmo Action, it faced stiff competition with the GoPro Hero 8 Black. Surprisingly, DJI did well where so many other companies had tried to break a chunk of the GoPro market, and the Osmo Action had been my action camera of choice for the past two years. It is high time to upgrade, though, and I've been keeping my eye on the DJI Action 2 – DJI has decided to drop the name "Osmo". The new action camera is a total reinvention aimed at creating its own niche rather than going head to head with the impressive GoPro Hero 10 Black that I recently tested.

The question, however, is whether Action 2's innovative modular approach is enough to set it apart from the competition. Are its unique attributes the head start DJI needs to be successful in the action camera arena?

draft

There's really nothing like the DJI Action 2. First of all, it's small – really small: only 1.54 x 0.86 inches and weighs only 56 grams. To get an idea of ​​what this means in the real world, you can slip it in your pocket or even conveniently carry it on the magnetic tag accessory.

DJI Action 2 lens.Andy Zahn / Digital Trends

The second point is that this camera is not just a single unit, it is actually modular, with the front selfie screen or battery separate from the camera module. The modules connect via a strong magnetic clamping system that is absolutely rock-solid. This allows the camera module to be completely sealed even without a charging port, giving it a waterproof rating of up to 32 feet. It can go up to 196 feet deep with the help of the optional waterproof case. Keep in mind that the front touchscreen and battery modules are not waterproof, so don't submerge them without first placing them in the waterproof case.

DJI Action 2 waterproof case.Andy Zahn / Digital Trends

Another advantage of this system is that there is no longer any need to open cumbersome connections to replace batteries. A new battery module can be snapped open in a few seconds to begin charging the primary battery. It is even possible to swap the batteries while the recording is in progress. In the long run, I see a potential disadvantage to this approach is that the primary battery will degrade over time and cannot be replaced, but this design offers enough advantages that seem like a small compromise.

DJI Action 2 connector plate.Andy Zahn / Digital Trends

The magnetic snap system also allows the Action 2 to be quickly moved between different accessories. You can have it on the bluetooth remote one second and effortlessly snap onto a magnetic mount attached to a headband the next. If a metal object is at hand, the Action 2 can simply be glued onto it, potentially allowing it to be mounted in places where a tripod or other mount would not work.

The 1.76-inch touchscreen on both the camera and front screen modules is certainly tiny, but I had no problem using it or filming with it. A single button turns the camera on / off and stops / starts recording; Double tap to switch modes.

DJI Action 2 touch screen.Andy Zahn / Digital Trends

Another interesting design decision is the complete lack of connectors on the camera module. The camera module has 32 GB of onboard memory. To expand this memory, both the battery and the front touchscreen module have a microSD card slot. This means that when the camera is separated from these modules, it can only record in the internal memory. On the plus side, however, this means that if you have multiple power or front touchscreen modules, each with an SD card, these modules not only charge the camera, but also provide additional storage space when plugged in.

One of the more fascinating accessories available for the Action 2 is a macro lens. As someone who spends a lot of time in his spare time photographing insects, tree frogs and flowers, this opens up exciting opportunities. It offers decent magnification, albeit with a healthy dose of edge distortion.

With Action 2 over the past few weeks, I've really come to appreciate how much thought and technology has gone into this camera.

power

As clever as the design of the Action 2 is, it has to be able to deliver great video too. Fortunately, it does. The Action 2 has a 12 MP 1 / 1.7-inch CMOS sensor and an aperture of f / 2.8. These aren't particularly impressive specs, but in practice they produce great looking video. The Action 2 can record 4K footage at up to 120 frames per second for high resolution slow motion or 240 frames per second at 1080p for 8x slow motion.

It's a shame that it doesn't manage 240fps at a resolution of 2.7k, but it didn't bother me that much in use. I generally prefer to shoot in 4K, and when I want super slow motion the action being captured generally dwarfs the importance of resolution.

It achieves that "gimbal-like" stability that allows it to take decent shots while walking and holding the camera.

As for image quality, I'm generally happy with the look of the footage from Action 2. It may be a little saturated and high-contrast, but personally I really like it, and more importantly, it did a good job around Process high-contrast scenes such as a twilight forest with a bright sky. Action 2 consistently managed to get shadows in such situations without blowing out the lights too much.

As you'd expect from a small sensor camera, the low light performance is pretty poor – if not the worst I've seen. There is only so much you can do to overcome the physics of collecting light on a small sensor by a small lens.

Perhaps most importantly, DJI has massively updated its Rocksteady image stabilization so that it is just as good, if not a bit better, than what GoPro has achieved with their latest camera technology. It achieves that "gimbal-like" stability that allows it to take decent shots while walking and holding the camera.

There's also a new HorizonSteady feature that maintains a level horizon regardless of the camera orientation. Keep in mind that RockSteady 2.0 only works below 100 fps and HorizonSteady only works at resolutions of 2.7K or less. Despite the resolution limitation, I found HorizonSteady absolutely worth the tradeoff when shooting smooth footage on uneven, uneven terrain.

In addition, the Action 2 has the hyperlapse and timelapse functions that we expect from action cameras. This is very important to me as it is one of my main uses for action cameras. These modes work well, and I love the prospect of traveling with the Action 2 and using its magnets to capture time-lapse videos in unique locations.

I was shocked at how good the sound recorded from Action 2 was. It's very useful for vlogging purposes – or just for video recording in general. It's far better than I'd expect from an action camera, and is a serious upgrade over the previous Osmo Action, which had pretty good shooting capabilities.

It's very useful for vlogging purposes – or just for video recording in general.

The Action 2 is capable of capturing still images, although in my experience this is a rarely used feature of action cameras. The 12-megapixel sensor does a good job of rendering nice pictures, but honestly, I'm more likely to pull out my phone to take a still photo than to put the Action 2 into photo mode. Even so, the functionality is there when you need it. Another feature you might be interested in is the QuickClip mode, which records preset 15-second videos for social media. You can also stream live with the Action 2 at up to 1080p 30fps or use the camera as a webcam.

Battery life

On the one hand, I was only able to record about 12 minutes of 4K video before the Action 2 ran out of juice in the camera module's 580 mAh battery. However, the other two modules are equipped with 1300 mAh batteries, which is sufficient for a day of shooting. They charge from empty to full in about 90 minutes.

Software and connectivity

I have no complaints about the software on the camera itself. It is very responsive and changing settings is quick and easy. The DJI Mimo companion app is also a useful tool as it enables remote control of the Action 2 and an editing workflow for your footage. There is also an AI editor that can automatically edit your videos with music and matching transitions so they can be easily shared right from the app.

The Action 2 has Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for connection to the app and optional accessories such as the Bluetooth remote control. I had no problems with the camera in this regard; It is a well developed and optimized system.

Price and availability

The Action 2 comes in two different bundles: the power combo is $ 399 and includes the main camera, power module, magnetic collar, and magnetic adapter mount, while the dual-screen combo is $ 519 and all contains what is included in the power combo, bar an exchange of the power module for a front touchscreen module and a magnetic ball head adapter holder.

The great thing here is that you get the same camera features whether you go for the budget-friendly power combo or the pony-up for the front touchscreen. I wouldn't say both combinations are a real bargain, but it comes down to what you would expect for a camera with Action 2 capabilities.

The Action 2 will be available for the front touchscreen combo from November 2nd. The power combo and most of the additional accessories should be available sometime in mid-November, with the exception of the DJI MIC – which will be available in December – and the magnetic headband – whose availability has not yet been decided at this point.

DJI Action 2 Unboxing 3.Andy Zahn / Digital Trends

Our opinion

The DJI Action 2 is a really innovative action camera and its novel approach really sets it apart from the competition. It does pretty much anything you'd expect in an action camera, and it does it very well. It's an action camera that, when taken to the bare minimum, is so small and light that you really have no excuse not to take it with you. By doing everything in its power to rethink action cameras from the ground up, DJI has landed a real home run with Action 2.

Is there a better alternative?

GoPro is always the elephant in the room when it comes to action cameras, and the Hero 10 Black was an easy choice for Editors & # 39; Choice when I checked her out last month. They are so close together that if I were forced to determine a winner I would likely declare a draw.

They're roughly in the same price range considering their different pricing models, and both offer great image stabilization. The GoPro can capture 5.3K footage, its 4K footage looks slightly more detailed, and it can capture 240fps slow-motion at 2.7K, while the Action 2 can only achieve that frame rate at 1080p. However, the Action 2 camera module is only about a third the size of the Hero 10 Black and its modular magnet system offers really unique advantages over the GoPro.

I could go back and forth for hours comparing these two cameras, but in the end I came to the conclusion that they are on par.

Its modular magnet system offers really unique advantages over the GoPro

How long it will take?

Unlike GoPro, DJI doesn't follow an annual release schedule for its products, so I can't tell when it will be replaced. Despite its age, my original Osmo Action is still a very capable camera, and I expect Action 2 will remain relevant for much longer. It's pretty sturdy, so it should last a long time – depending on how much punishment it receives, DJI naturally offers a standard limited warranty on its devices.

The only downer is the already mentioned non-replaceable batteries, especially in the camera module. Eventually, the battery life on this module degrades to the point where you need to leave a battery or front touchscreen module connected in order for it to work for a reasonable amount of time. However, this will last for many years and be used frequently, so this shouldn't stop you from buying the camera.

Should you buy it?

Yes sir. The DJI Action 2 is an extremely compelling action camera, especially if you have a specific use case in mind that would benefit from its small size, light weight, and unique modular design.

Editor's recommendations



15 Apr
Blog

DJI Air 2S Review: Superb Results Without the Work

DJI Air 2S in front

"When quality and performance are paramount, there is nothing like the DJI Air 2S."

  • Takes sharp pictures

  • Strong details from the 5.4K video

  • Pro level clips with mastershots

  • Fun and Safe to Fly

  • The camera can sometimes search for focus

One leisurely activity that kept me sane during last year's lockdown was flying the DJI Mavic Air 2. It had everything you'd expect from a drone, whether you were a first-time flyer or a seasoned pilot. Now, however, it looks like DJI is removing a page from Apple's playbook by releasing an updated version of its drone a year after it was released.

I had very few concerns about the Mavic Air 2 when I tried it out last year. He was near perfect in every way. Step into the DJI Air 2S, a slightly upgraded version that stands out most of all for the upgraded camera sensor it brings with it for the ride, which clearly brings it closer to Mavic Pro territory – the company's premier consumer drones. How much better is it getting? Read on to find out.

Bigger 1-inch sensor is no joke

In the camera world, one way to improve performance is to introduce a larger sensor. That's exactly what DJI brings to the Air 2S, and it's without question the drone's most notable new quality. The new 20-megapixel 1-inch sensor with 2.4 μm pixels is no joke and improves the half-inch sensor of its predecessor. With the larger sensor on board, more light can be drawn in to reveal more details – especially in the shadows, where noise is traditionally most evident.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

Photos from the camera are crisp and sharp, which is what you'd expect from a larger sensor. Taking pictures around sunset time has proven difficult at times as small sensors (like the one in the DJI Mini 2) aren't designed for low light, but that's not a problem here. In fact, I've used my photo editing software to enhance the shadows on some of my sunset shots – and I'm happy to announce that there is no significant evidence of noise.

Of course, the best results are achieved when it is sunny. However, what makes the DJI Air 2S helpful is that it can definitely capture stunning photos without having to edit them later. There is still a "SMART" photo mode, which essentially functions as the drone's HDR mode. It takes a picture and automatically adjusts the shadows and highlights to bring out the best details, so you get a high quality shot the first time.

The quality meets your expectations: it is excellent.

There are some new additions to the video page that are pushing the threshold in a direction that will add even more usefulness to the creators in the post. In addition to your traditional 4K recording at 60 frames per second (fps), the DJI Air 2S up the ante by offering 5.4K recording at up to 30 fps. Of course, this offers a few useful tricks – like the ability to use the digital zoom 6x when recording in 1080p or to trim the post-pans for pans and zooms.

dji air 2s evaluation image example 1 of 4John Velasco / Digital Trends

dji air 2s review image sample 2 of 4John Velasco / Digital Trends

dji air 2s evaluation image example 3 of 4John Velasco / Digital Trends

dji air 2s evaluation picture example 4 ofJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

The quality meets your expectations: it is excellent. There is a lot of detail, colors have a subtle tone of saturation, and there is reasonable dynamic range to bring out details in highlights and shadows that are otherwise lost. However, I've found that the camera tends to seek out focus at times. Therefore, it may sometimes be necessary to switch to manual mode. What was missing from my test was an option for HDR video mode, which I happily used with the Mavic Air 2. I'm assuming this is a future update, but what that would mean is a properly exposed video that looks great at first.

Moving to a larger sensor is exactly what this iterative update needs to stand out in the DJI lineup. The problem presented here, however, is that the Air 2S is diminishing the Mavic Pro line's reputation as a professional drone.

Fly even safer

Whether you are just starting out or a seasoned professional with numerous flying lessons, the DJI Air 2S is even safer to fly than its predecessor. The most notable feature here is the addition of upward-facing sensors on the drone itself, complementing the other three (forward, backward, and downward) that are in place to make the flight safer overall. The new upward-facing sensors are useful when using the drone's improved APAS 4.0 technology to avoid obstacles in its flight path. This can best be seen when using the new ActiveTrack 4.0 tracking function, which allows the drone to intelligently track a subject / object while avoiding obstacles.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

Thanks to these new safety features, you get great footage, especially because you can control the Air 2S to follow a subject without worrying about it hitting anything. Now I've tried this with someone walking very quietly through a field, safely navigating around poles and signs.

In my years as a drone pilot, I've never really encountered a close call. First off, the DJI Air 2S is greeted with the same OcuSync 3.0 technology introduced with the recent DJI FPV drone. That said, the drone's video feed feed now extends 12 km – an increase over the Mavic Air 2's range of 10 km. In one case, however, the transmission was briefly interrupted, so I just had to restart the app. However, after a firmware update, the video feed was no longer interrupted.

A beginner can look like a pro with the Air 2S.

During another test flight, one of my worst fears about flying a drone came up. Somehow the connection between the remote control and the drone was broken and the drone hovered high in the air for about a minute. In my panic, I tried restarting the app hoping it would connect, but it didn't. Fortunately, the Air 2S's safety protocol was introduced, with the drone automatically flying near the maximum altitude of 400 feet and then returning home on its own. Eventually it landed all by itself and locked, averting the crisis. This experience is exactly the proof why it is one of the safest drones to fly.

Pro creation without being a professional

Through years of flying, I have had the experience of taking breathtaking photos and videos, all of which were achieved with manual operation. What is special about the DJI Air 2S, however, is that, similar to the other drones in its portfolio, you don't have to be a professional to get high quality footage. Thanks to the various Quickshot modes, all you have to do is select your subject in the frame and the drone will do the rest. All previous Quickshot modes are available again, e.g. B. Circle, Dronie and Asteroid, with which the Air 2S flies away from a subject and then captures a tiny planet.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

The latest addition is MasterShots, a new mode that uses some of DJI's popular Quickshot modes and automatically creates professionally composed clips – all with no physical interaction controlling the drone. Once you have selected your subject / location, the DJI Air 2S automatically sets predefined flight paths to record all the clips you need. The end result is a short clip that looks like a professional who piloted and edited the video. This new automation shows exactly why the Air 2S can make a beginner look like a pro.

Minimal compromise

Unsurprisingly, DJI recycled the design of its popular drone, so there aren't any major differences between the Air 2S and the Mavic Air 2. It still folds up to make travel easier, but what's even better is the fact that it uses the same batteries as the Mavic Air 2. For anyone upgrading, it's nice to know they're getting their old ones Batteries can continue to use.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

Speaking of batteries: The total flight time with the DJI Air 2S has been reduced to 31 minutes – compared to 34 minutes with the Mavic Air 2. To be honest, this is not a problem, but the compromise was made to take into account the larger camera sensor and the slightly heavier weight of the Drone weighing 595 grams. In sport mode, it can still reach a top speed of around 42.5 miles per hour (mph).

Our opinion

Who knows if this will be the trend for DJI, but the Air 2S has all the improvements to make it a meaningful upgrade over the Mavic Air 2. Prices for the Air 2S start at $ 999, but I recommend paying the extra cash to get the $ 1,299 Fly More Combo version that comes with ND filters, a carry case, two extra batteries, and supplied with a multi charger.

The DJI Air 2S is still proving to be the best all-round drone. From its crisp video performance to all of its security features, it's the drone to beat. Beginners will enjoy how easy it is to produce high quality footage with minimal interaction, while seasoned professionals will enjoy the improved performance of its larger sensor.

Should you upgrade?

This is difficult to answer. DJI will continue to sell this Mavic Air 2 so besides the Air 2S, the difference between the two is only $ 100. There are certainly good reasons the Air 2S is the superior drone, but it's still difficult to justify another purchase for existing Mavic Air 2 owners. If image quality is paramount, the upgrade is clearly worth it. If you don't mind editing footage, you can still get stunning photos and videos with the Mavic Air 2.

On the other hand, if you think about a DJI Mini For example, there is no comparison as the extra money you would spend buying the DJI Air 2S is justified by the difference between day and night in terms of performance, quality and safety.

How long it will take?

The DJI Air 2S is solidly built all around and has a one-year limited warranty that covers defects. Additionally, you can purchase DJI Care Refresh's extended warranty for the Air 2S, which covers it for accidental damage. Taking into account the cost of the drone, it's worth purchasing it.

Is there a better alternative?

Usually the next logical alternative is something in the DJI Mavic Pro series – like the Mavic 2 Pro. That's not the case, as the DJI Air 2S's new upgrades place it in exactly the same category as the flagship in the company's portfolio.

Should you buy it?

Yes, you won't find a better drone for the money. All upgrades make it a standout model in the world of drones by balancing performance, safety features, ease of use and price.

Editor's recommendations




11 Mar
Blog

DJI FPV Review: An Endeavor for Serious Drone Pilots

dji fpv review 4 of 8

"The DJI FPV is a fast and agile drone for serious pilots."

  • Incredible agility and speed

  • Responsive controls

  • Low latency video transmission

  • Steep learning curve

  • Soft video quality in low light

When it comes to variety in the drone world, DJI offers perhaps the most extensive lineup aimed at both enthusiasts and professionals. From the Mavic line for those just starting out to the Inspire line for commercial work, DJI seems to have the full range.

While one could argue that DJI dipped its toes into the first-person view (FPV) world with its FPV goggles not so long ago, the DJI FPV marks the company's official entry into the exciting new world of FPV -Drones – those soaring, fast drones that perform like souped-up street racing cars. It opens up a whole new world to existing drone enthusiasts. But what does choosing the DJI FPV really bring you?

Powerhouse animal

I've mentioned to people several times how intimidated I am by the DJI FPV. It's a powerhouse on paper and in real life with its aggressive design language that is a marked departure from previous designs I've seen from DJI. For starters, the two second acceleration time from 0 to 62 mph is a reminder of its raw power – something that shouldn't be taken lightly, especially if it's your first time flying an FPV drone. I managed to get the DJI FPV to 60 mph during my tests, but that's still a step back from its top speed of 87 mph.

The strength and responsiveness is incredible, something that is required to achieve some of your aerial acrobatics. While other consumer drones piloted by me like the DJI Mini 2 and the Mavic Air 2 prefer more gentle movements, the DJI FPV is all about tight movements and quick coverage that provide a different kind of visual capture. For example, you can get the feeling of floating in the air with the DJI FPV because it can make such tight turns.

The strength and responsiveness is incredible.

Because of its incredible performance, I wouldn't recommend the DJI FPV to anyone just starting out. Driving is similar to driving a manual racing car for the first time. It is therefore helpful if you have any driving experience at all.

Steeper learning curve

One reason experience is required is because there is a steeper learning curve to becoming familiar with the manual mode of the DJI FPV. On one hand, I appreciate that the normal mode is similar to controlling DJI's other consumer drones, but flying for the first time was an experience I haven't felt since flying my first drone. I was scared because it was by far the most powerful drone I have ever flown.

Aside from just controlling the drone, there is also all of the equipment that makes up this completely new system. While the drone is at the heart of all of this, there is also the remote control, FPV goggles, and batteries that complete them. I usually just turn on a drone and connect my smartphone to the controller before it's ready to fly. However, because there are more components involved, the DJI FPV will take a little more time to set up and start up.

The new OcuSync 3.0 technology, which is used here with the DJI FPV, delivers reliable video transmission at 810p / 120 frames per second (fps), which enables a real-time view of my flight location and a better feeling for the strict controls that react immediately. This is important because control is everything. Some latency and delay may or may not mean the difference between the drone capturing the shot. Fortunately, DJI's FPV system works like a charm.

If your main goal is to take photos, then you shouldn't get the DJI FPV.

Even so, the menu system is hard to miss. It is difficult to access controls, options, and different modes from a smartphone by tapping the appropriate controls in the DJI Fly app and just relying strictly on the joystick on the FPV goggles. You cannot change the video resolution so easily while the system is running through the protective goggles. To do this, you need to go through a few menus before you get to it. This simply adds to the steeper learning curve of the DJI FPV.

Finally, I really want to emphasize that you cannot control the DJI FPV by yourself. Since you are wearing the DJI FPV Goggles 2, someone else will need to be with you to have a visual line of sight with the drone. Therefore, by default, it is a two-person operation.

Dynamic action footage

If your primary goal is to take photos, then you shouldn't get the DJI FPV – mostly because there are other options that are better suited to it, like the DJI Mavic 2 Pro with its larger camera sensor. The DJI FPV is really intended for the serious videographer who wants to get the nifty and fluid action shots that fast FPV drones are known for capturing. Photos are just an addition to the experience.

Equipped with a 12-megapixel camera with a 1 / 2.3-inch CMOS sensor, the DJI FPV 4K records 60 fps with a bit rate of 120 Mbit / s. With its impressive speeds and tight controls, this drone can definitely achieve a style that DJI's other consumer drones cannot match. I was able to fly right over the waters of the Atlantic Ocean at over 50 mph, then rocket at an angled speed, and finally make a tight turn in mid-flight. Considering this is all happening in real time, this is the kind of footage I couldn't get to with drones like the DJI Mini 2.

You could emulate the look and style, but to get the same pace the footage would have to be sped up to make it look like you're flying at the same incredible speed. It's not the same, however, especially when subjects move in the frame – moving strangely because the footage is speeding up. This is not a problem if the recording contains static elements.

With enough lighting, the 4K footage is sharp and saturated at 60 frames per second, but softens as the sun goes down. There are notable artifacts in the shadows so I made it better match the DJI Mini 2 in terms of low light quality, although it's nice that DJI is offering their D-Cinelike color profile in the post for better optimization. The camera sits on a uniaxial (tilt) gimbal, which, unlike the triaxial gimbals found in DJI's other drones, gives it a very peculiar look as the left / right panning inclines to them during flight Images leads, the pilots see in a real cockpit. The stabilization is thankfully done in the form of RockSteady EIS, which does a good job of reducing vibrations and jitter, but is not as good as a camera sitting on a 3-axis gimbal.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

The DJI FPV's video style is incredibly unique – you won't find anything like it in DJI's portfolio. That alone is the biggest incentive for drone pilots looking for nifty action sequences. You won't get any of the cool cinematic recording modes that DJI is known for like circle, rocket, and boomerang. In order to get similar images, the pilot must expertly steer them.

For serious videographers only

The biggest question is, who is the DJI FPV for? As I mentioned earlier, if your primary objective is to take photos, you have nothing to do with the DJI FPV. It's not for beginners either. It is intended for the serious videographer who wants to capture action sequences, such as when following a high-speed biker through a course.

Our opinion

On paper, the DJI FPV is in close proximity to the DJI Mavic 2 line at $ 1,299 – i.e. at the upper end of the spectrum in the DJI portfolio for consumer drones. It's not cheap, but the pricing is reasonable as it's a complete FPV system in one package, unlike other FPV drones that require a DIY approach.

I would recommend paying the extra $ 299 to get hold of the Fly More kit, which includes two extra batteries and a charging node. Well worth the cost, as it costs $ 159 for a single replacement battery. Finally, for $ 199, the DJI Motion Controller offers a new and unique way to control the DJI FPV by providing controls that make it seem like you are actually controlling something right from the cockpit.

How long it will take?

It's well built, but I'd like to say that you should buy DJI Care Refresh's extended warranty anyway, not only because of the drone's expensive cost, but also because of the fact that piloting such an animal could result in an accident those who are not so experienced. It covers accidental damage and starts at $ 199 for a one-year plan.

Is there a better alternative?

Not really in terms of the visual style of shooting. Yes, you could buy an FPV drone, but the vast majority have to be hand-assembled – while with the DJI FPV, you have a complete system that is ready to use right out of the box.

Should you buy it?

Yes, only if you are a serious drone videographer looking to add a new visual dimension to your recording portfolio.

Editor's recommendations




10 Mar
Blog

DJI FPV Review: An Endeavor for Serious Drone Pilots

dji fpv review 4 of 8

"The DJI FPV is a fast and agile drone for serious pilots."

  • Incredible agility and speed

  • Responsive controls

  • Low latency video transmission

  • Steep learning curve

  • Soft video quality in low light conditions

When it comes to variety in the drone world, DJI offers perhaps the most extensive lineup aimed at both enthusiasts and professionals. From the Mavic line for those just starting out to the Inspire line for commercial work, DJI seems to have the full range.

While one could argue that DJI dipped its toes into the first-person view (FPV) world with its FPV goggles not so long ago, the DJI FPV marks the company's official entry into the exciting new world of FPV -Drones – those soaring, fast drones that perform like souped-up street racing cars. It opens up a whole new world to existing drone enthusiasts. But what does choosing the DJI FPV really bring you?

Powerhouse animal

I've mentioned to people several times how intimidated I am by the DJI FPV. It's a powerhouse on paper and in real life with its aggressive design language that is a marked departure from previous designs I've seen from DJI. For starters, the two second acceleration time from 0 to 62 mph is a reminder of its raw power – something that shouldn't be taken lightly, especially if it's your first time flying an FPV drone. I managed to get the DJI FPV to 60 mph during my tests, but that's still a step back from its top speed of 87 mph.

The strength and responsiveness is incredible, something that is required to achieve some of your aerial acrobatics. While other consumer drones piloted by me like the DJI Mini 2 and the Mavic Air 2 prefer more gentle movements, the DJI FPV is all about tight movements and quick coverage that provide a different kind of visual capture. For example, you can get the feeling of floating in the air with the DJI FPV because it can make such tight turns.

The strength and responsiveness is incredible.

Because of its incredible performance, I wouldn't recommend the DJI FPV to anyone just starting out. Driving is similar to driving a manual racing car for the first time. It is therefore helpful if you have any driving experience at all.

Steeper learning curve

One reason experience is required is because there is a steeper learning curve to becoming familiar with the manual mode of the DJI FPV. On one hand, I appreciate that the normal mode is similar to controlling the other DJI consumer drones, but flying for the first time was an experience I haven't felt since flying my first drone. I was scared because it was by far the most powerful drone I have ever flown.

Aside from just controlling the drone, there is also all of the equipment that makes up this completely new system. While the drone is at the heart of all of this, there is also the remote control, FPV goggles, and batteries that complete them. I usually just turn on a drone and connect my smartphone to the controller before it's ready to fly. However, because there are more components involved, the DJI FPV will take a little more time to set up and start up.

The new OcuSync 3.0 technology used here with the DJI FPV delivers reliable video transmission at 810p / 120 frames per second (fps), which enables a real-time view of my flight and a better feeling for the strict controls that react immediately. This is important because control is everything. Some latency and delay may or may not make the difference between the drone capturing the shot. Fortunately, DJI's FPV system works like a charm.

If your main goal is to take photos, then you shouldn't get the DJI FPV.

Even so, the menu system is hard to miss. It is difficult to access controls, options, and different modes from a smartphone by tapping the appropriate controls in the DJI Fly app and just relying strictly on the joystick on the FPV goggles. You cannot easily change the video resolution while the system is running through the protective goggles. To do this, you need to go through a few menus before you get to it. This simply adds to the steeper learning curve of the DJI FPV.

Finally, I really want to emphasize that you cannot control the DJI FPV by yourself. Since you are wearing the DJI FPV Goggles 2, someone else needs to be with you to have a visual line of sight with the drone. Therefore, by default, it is a two-person operation.

Dynamic action footage

If your primary goal is to take photos, then you shouldn't get the DJI FPV – mostly because there are other options that are better suited to it, like the DJI Mavic 2 Pro with its larger camera sensor. The DJI FPV is really intended for the serious videographer who wants to get the nifty and fluid action shots that fast FPV drones are known for capturing. Photos are only an addition to the experience.

Equipped with a 12-megapixel camera with a 1 / 2.3-inch CMOS sensor, the DJI FPV 4K records 60 fps at a bit rate of 120 Mbit / s. With its impressive speeds and tight controls, this drone can definitely achieve a style that DJI's other consumer drones cannot match. I was able to fly right over the waters of the Atlantic Ocean at over 50 mph, then rocket at an angled speed, and finally make a tight turn in mid-flight. Considering this is all happening in real time, this is the kind of footage I couldn't get to with drones like the DJI Mini 2.

You could emulate the look and style, but to get the same pace the footage would have to be sped up to make it look like you're flying at the same incredible speed. It's not the same, however, especially when subjects move in the frame – which move strangely because the footage is sped up. This is not a problem if the recording contains static elements.

With enough lighting, the 4K footage is sharp and saturated at 60 frames per second, but softens as the sun goes down. There are notable artifacts in the shadows so I made it better match the DJI Mini 2 in terms of low light quality, although it's nice that DJI is offering their D-Cinelike color profile in the post for better optimization. The camera sits on a uniaxial (tilt) gimbal, which, unlike the triaxial gimbals found in DJI's other drones, gives it a very peculiar look as the left / right panning inclines to them during flight Images leads, the pilots see in a real cockpit. The stabilization is thankfully done in the form of RockSteady EIS, which does a good job of reducing vibrations and jitter, but is not as good as a camera sitting on a 3-axis gimbal.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

The DJI FPV's video style is incredibly unique – you won't find anything like it in DJI's portfolio. That alone is the biggest incentive for drone pilots looking for nifty action sequences. You won't get any of the cool movie recording modes that DJI is known for like circle, rocket and boomerang. In order to get similar images, the pilot must expertly steer them.

For serious videographers only

The biggest question is, who is the DJI FPV for? As I mentioned earlier, if your primary objective is to take photos, you have nothing to do with the DJI FPV. It's not for beginners either. It is intended for the serious videographer who wants to capture action sequences, such as when following a high-speed biker through a course.

Our opinion

On paper, the DJI FPV, at a cost of $ 1,299, is in close proximity to the DJI Mavic 2 line – that is, at the upper end of the spectrum in the DJI portfolio for consumer drones. It's not cheap, but the pricing is reasonable as it's a complete FPV system in one package, unlike other FPV drones that require a DIY approach.

I would recommend paying the extra $ 299 to get hold of the Fly More kit, which includes two extra batteries and a charging node. Given the cost of $ 159 for a single replacement battery, the cost is well worth it. Finally, the $ 199 DJI Motion Controller offers a new and unique way to control the DJI FPV by providing controls that make it seem like you're actually controlling something right from the cockpit.

How long it will take?

It's well built, but I'd like to say that you should still get DJI Care Refresh's extended warranty, not only because of the drone's expensive cost, but also because of the fact that piloting such an animal will result in an accident might those who are not so experienced. It covers accidental damage and starts at $ 199 for a one-year plan.

Is there a better alternative?

Not really in terms of the visual style of shooting. Yes, you could buy an FPV drone, but the vast majority have to be hand-assembled – while with the DJI FPV, you have a complete system that is ready to use right out of the box.

Should you buy it?

Yes, only if you are a serious drone videographer looking to add a new visual dimension to your recording portfolio.

Editor's recommendations




05 Nov
Blog

DJI Mini 2 Review: Same Compact Size, More Confidence Flying

"Don't be fooled by its small size, the DJI Mini 2 is safe to fly and offers 4K video recording."

  • Proper 4K video recording

  • Manages windy conditions

  • Stable connection with OcuSync 2.0

  • Ridiculously compact size

  • An obstacle avoidance sensor is missing

  • Terrible performance in low light

I thought DJI was through with the announcements for the year. After the launch of the DJI Mavic Air 2 and Pocket 2, it seemed unlikely that we would hear anything else from the drone maker in 2020, but it turns out that there is one final exciting product for consumers before the holidays. And yes, it's another drone!

Drones are usually not updated annually, so the announcement of the DJI Mini 2 is surprising. The lightweight drone continues to fly under the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) radar due to its weight of 249 grams, making it ideal for beginners as no registration is required. More importantly, however, it fixes some of the shortcomings of the predecessor right away.

More freedom of movement with 4K video

At a time when 4K video recording is standard on smartphones and cameras, it was a disappointment that the Mavic Mini peaked last year at 2.7K resolution. Well, this is the first item on the Mini 2's list that has proper 4K video recording. While the frame rate at 4K is 30 frames per second (FPS), DJI has increased the bit rate from 40 Mbit / s on the Mavic Mini to 100 Mbit / s on the Mini 2.

DJI Mini 2 camera close-upJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

What is that supposed to mean? I'm particularly happy with the extra resolution as it gives me extra wiggle room in the post – for example, cropping and cropping a scene when I export it in 1080p. For those watching videos and clips on 4K screens, the 4K resolution means there is no need to upscale this time around.

Details are plentiful and clear as expected, but best results are achieved during the day and afternoon when there is ample light. Colors have an even, neutral tone – never too saturated to work in the post. However, performance crumbles as the sun goes down and often appears cloudy, dark, and unusable unless the scene contains strong light sources. This is partly because nothing changes on the sensor, a 12-megapixel 1 / 2.3-inch sensor that sits on a 3-axis gimbal.

DJI Mini 2 in the air

Dynamic range performance isn't up to the level I've got with the Mavic Air 2, but some tweaks in the post can highlight details that are otherwise lost in the shadows. Photographers will appreciate the Mini 2's performance for still image capture, but just like video, it has problems with low light and low dynamics.

OcuSync 2.0 offers security

If you've ever piloted the Mavic Mini, you know how prone to interference video transmission can be. It's annoying for sure, but also scary if it takes longer. Fortunately, the DJI Mini 2 alleviates concerns thanks to DJI's OcuSync 2.0 transmission technology. The controller is an exact facsimile of the Mavic Air 2. It's bigger, but I like the way my smartphone is held on top of the controller – as opposed to the floor on the Mavic Mini's controller.

The connectivity between the drone and the controller offers more reliability.

With OcuSync 2.0, the connectivity between drone and controller becomes more reliable. In fact, live video rarely stuttered during my flights. And even though I managed to increase the distance from my location to over 1,000 feet, DJI says it is capable of a range of 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). There's nothing worse than latency issues when piloting a drone. This ensures that OcuSync 2.0 gives me more responsive controls on the Mini 2.

DJI Mini 2 OcySync 2.0 controllerJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

One of my biggest concerns about flying the Mavic Mini is reducing its range further as it may interfere with video transmission. There is none of this in the Mini 2.

Fly against the wind

Flying in windy conditions is always risky, but it's deeper when you're dealing with a lightweight drone like the Mavic Mini. I can't tell you how many times I stopped flying due to windy conditions. There are also several videos online of owners reacting to this and floating away from their location due to high winds. Although I'm still cautious, the DJI Mini 2 can handle the wind a lot better.

On the first day of the Mini 2's flight, winds were blowing at 17 miles per hour on the Jersey Shore. Fortunately, DJI upgraded the engines in the Mini 2 to better withstand wind speeds of up to 40 km / h. I have always canceled flights with the Mavic Mini in the past when the wind hit 12 mph. In the air, it's clear that the Mini 2 worked hard to maintain stability, and while it looked like it was rattling around, the video footage stayed buttery smooth.

DJI Mini 2 in the airJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

To really test its performance, I decided to see how it handles flying against the wind. Terrifyingly, it went like a champion – even in normal mode. Switching to sport mode increases performance, making it easy to break through the wind. Its top speed still reaches a top speed of 22 km / h, but accelerating from a floating position shows that the engines are more powerful.

Are you concerned that these upgraded engines will give you a shorter flight time? You don't need to worry as the battery life has been increased to 31 minutes, which is a minute better than its predecessor. Unfortunately the Mini 2 uses a different type of battery so you cannot use existing packs of the Mavic Mini.

Some things that could be better

I must confess that the Mavic Air 2 spoiled me, especially the improved HDR recording, 4K 60 FPS recording, 8K Hyperlapse and Asteroid Quickshot mode. To be fair, the Mini 2 offers some nice footage that controls the drone autonomously for me – like drone, boomerang, and circle quickshot modes. The only area that is still severely lacking in the Mini 2 is avoiding obstacles. The Mavic Air 2 has various sensors on its body to detect obstacles so it can stop in mid-flight and try to avoid them. You don't get any of this with the Mini 2, which means I need to know my surroundings at all times – plus the line of sight distance required.

It's the ideal starter drone.

There is also no automatic tracking mode that would allow the Mini 2 to follow me. As a result, manual piloting with the controller is still the main method for capturing footage. It's not a terrible thing, but if you were pampered by the Mavic Air 2's Active Track 3.0 system, I wouldn't mind following me while cycling around a lake without the fear of it colliding with something.

There have also been a couple of times the DJI Fly app crashed on me while flying the drone. I suspect this is because it isn't the final software, but luckily I restarted it and got back to where I left off.

DJI Mini 2 Fly More ComboJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Our opinion

There are many reasons to choose the DJI Mini 2, especially if you are a first-time drone pilot or an enthusiast. At $ 449, this is an easy recommendation over the $ 400 Mavic Mini. I would recommend buying the $ 599 Fly More Combo instead as it has some extras that make it a sound package.

Not only does it come with three batteries, a charging station, and extra propellers, but I prefer it over the Fly More Combo that included last year's Mavic Mini as it comes with a suitable carry case (including a shoulder strap) and propeller protection wraps around the drone.

Is the Mini 2 perfect? Not exactly, but it's still an amazing tiny drone that doesn't require FAA registration due to its weight of 249 grams. The addition of 4K footage makes it a competent gamer in space, but what really makes this offering superior to its predecessor is the confidence in flying – thanks to OcuSync 2.0 and the improved motors. Flying with confidence is always a good thing and the Mini 2 reassures me of this with its responsiveness.

How long it will take?

The same all-plastic construction can still be seen here, which certainly makes it feel a bit fragile. I don't expect it to handle crashes that well, so flying carefully is essential. You should also pack it extra carefully as it will feel fragile.

You can buy a DJI Care Refresh with the Mini 2 from a cos. Due to water damage and collisions, up to two replacement devices will be made available within a year.

Is there a better alternative?

For this price? Not really. However, when you're ready to spend more, you can get the DJI Mavic Air 2 is the all-round drone for all levels thanks to its safety functions, excellent photo / video performance and advanced tracking system. But at $ 799, you pay almost double to pick it up.

Should you buy it?

Yes. It's an absolute steal considering how easy it is to pilot, plus the 4K video recording, the cinematic quick-shoot options, and the compact size. In contrast to before, I have more confidence when flying thanks to OcuSync 2.0 and its improved motors. It is the ideal starter drone for those who want to improve their game beyond flying for fun.

Editor's recommendations




07 Oct
Blog

DJI OM 4 Review: A Simple Yet Cinematic Gimbal

dji om 4 review 2167

"The DJI OM 4 is beginner-friendly, but includes some advanced camera movements."

  • Easy to use

  • Fast magnetic attachment

  • Pre-programmed movements in stories

  • Good stabilization

  • Advanced app tools

  • Some modes are hidden

  • Follow mode does not use the full pan range

Gimbals mix stabilization with cinematic camera movement, but the combination often creates a system geared toward experienced users. However, this is not the case with the DJI OM 4. With the three-axis gimbal, which requires little balancing, even inexperienced users can work – literally or figuratively – in just a few short tutorial videos.

The DJI OM 4 was developed by a company known for its drones. In story mode, the OM 4 even adds cinematic camera movements with just a few taps of the finger, while modes such as dynamic zoom imitate advanced dolly zoom techniques. Gesture control with tracking even opens the gimbal for vloggers.

The DJI OM 4 offers the ideal mix of beginner-friendly features and advanced movie effects – but it's not quite perfect. As a photographer – not a videographer – I took out DJI's latest gimbal to see how re-friendly it is.

Technical data and features

The DJI OM 4 is a three-axis motorized smartphone gimbal that includes some improvements over the previous version, including a more powerful motor. It's compatible with any phone less than 3.3 inches wide and 10.23 ounces with an app for iOS and Android. (I tested the OM 4 with an iPhone 11 Pro).

The gimbal offers a good range of motion between approximately 333 degrees and 343 degrees on each of the three axes. The gimbal stops panning once it reaches the front of the gimbal handle, and it has a tilt range from the sky to the ground.

Hillary K. Grigonis / Digital Trends

The gimbal not only stabilizes videos, but also offers various modes to support creative recordings. Tracking mode follows a person or animal and can be activated when gesture control is activated by raising your hand with the palm of your hand towards the camera. Sport mode is designed to use the gimbal while it is active.

One of my favorite aspects of the gimbal is the different modes that make it easy to add professional looking camera movement. In Inception mode, the camera is rotated with the joystick instead of panning or tilting. Dynamic zoom or dolly zoom enlarges or reduces the subject, but keeps it in the same position and changes the background instead. Hyperlapses and time-lapse are included, as are panoramas, including the option to clone yourself into a photo.

design

The DJI OM 4 uses two different mounting options – a thin metal plate that stays permanently attached to the device, or a detachable smartphone clamp. According to DJI, the plate is faster and does not need to be rebalanced, but should not be used for a fall. I used the clamp option.

The spring-loaded clamp was impressively able to grip and balance my iPhone 11 Pro with its case. However, the clamp needs to be perfectly aligned to keep the horizon straight. I had to regularly nudge one side of the clamp to keep the phone perfectly balanced. The app also provides an option to rebalance the gimbal for phones that are tilted to one side despite being correctly oriented, and will likely be required to use accessories such as auxiliary lenses.

Hillary K. Grigonis / Digital Trends

Once the clamp or plate is in place, mounting the smartphone on the gimbal is as easy as aligning the two points on each magnet. I occasionally had to adjust the position of the clamp once it was installed to achieve perfect balance.

The handle offers an ergonomic design, with which almost every control is easily accessible. On the front there is the joystick for redirecting the gimbal, a record button and a mode button that switch between video and still images as well as from vertical to horizontal. Near the tip of the thumb, there is a zoom switch on the side of the handle. I could barely reach this knob without adjusting my whole hand, and users with small hands may not quite like this button position.

On the back is the trigger to lock the gimbal in one direction. Two taps on the shutter button re-center the gimbal, while three taps on the front facing camera toggle in the DJI app.

Once captured, the upper arm of the gimbal folds down on itself, shortening the overall height of the gimbal. At roughly 6.5 inches tall, the only bag it fits will fit oversized coat packages or cargo pants, but only add about 14 ounces to a bag. The gimbal also comes with an optional folding tripod base on which the gimbal can be used on a tabletop.

The DJI app: a cameraman in your hands

The controls of the gimbal were still transferred to the native camera app of the iPhone. However, the best features of the gimbal are contained in the DJI Mimo app. From in-app tutorials to automating camera tricks, the app is impressively well built and easy to use. Initial setup of the app was easy and didn't have the headache that some Bluetooth devices cause when they first connect.

For the most part, the app helps beginners get started quickly. Mimo starts with a built-in tutorial that walked me through the various controls and shortcuts. Then, if I inevitably forgot exactly where those controls were, I could turn to the tutorial section for a quick refresher.

However, the main part of the app is the camera mode. Many of the options and controls feel like using the basic camera app on my iPhone, including a mode slider under the record button and the same tap to focus and slide to adjust the exposure.

Story mode was my favorite part of the entire app – and I very rarely share social media stories. The feature uses the gimbal to create various motion effects that I wouldn't otherwise capture, and then merges it all into an edited, easily shareable clip of music. It's both a great way to create highlight clips for easy sharing and put together professional-looking video effects without knowing how to record or edit them.

With the story shortcut in camera mode, you can record and edit a video at the same time. In this mode, the app and gimbal work together to automatically create short, edited videos with motion effects based on the template you selected. For example, the gimbal can create a 360-degree video glitch, add tilt effects, or create motion blur between cuts with rapid gimbal movement.

Hillary K. Grigonis / Digital Trends

The app counts down to the start of the recording and then automatically moves the gimbal to achieve the effect. The process is repeated for each clip in the template. Some templates use camera tricks, while others just add music, text, and filters. The custom template option allows you to adjust the camera movement (unfortunately not factors like the length of the clip). Stories can be saved as drafts so that you can record the clips at different times of the day.

By accessing the stories from the home page, instead of using camera mode, pre-recorded videos are edited with templates that include clip transitions, music, filters and text. Although the camera effects are not added for you, this is the mode you want to use if you are taking a one-time shot because the shooting mode will count down and stop after a few seconds based on the number of template you select.

My only complaint about the app is that I wish Stories could do even more, including longer videos and custom clip lengths. When using Stories in Selfie mode, some movements are also reversed in ways that don't always make sense, e.g. For example, if you tilt the camera down instead of up when using the front camera.

user friendliness

As a photographer, rather than a videographer, I can count the number of gimbals I've tried on one hand. However, the OM 4 was easy to jump in and use right away. At the same time, thanks to the integrated tutorials and the various modes of the app, the OM 4 offers more advanced camera tricks that almost anyone can use to take photos.

I was ready to use the basic controls after just a few minutes of playing. The gimbal stabilization is excellent – I've used the OM 4 inline skating and even jogging backwards with excellent results.

The OM 4's ability to follow a subject in front of the camera is good, if not perfect. If a single topic remains in front of the gimbal, e.g. B. for vlogging or creating tutorial videos, the performance of the gimbal is excellent. However, the gimbal has problems following people who move to the side of the gimbal long before the swing limit is reached. When tracking people, the gimbal sometimes switched another person and followed her.

Hillary K. Grigonis / Digital Trends

That's not to say that a little practice and time with the gimbal won't be beneficial. The gimbal has several shortcuts to the same button and I had to take pictures with it a few times to remember them all. One click of the mode button changes the mode from photo to video, two clicks from vertical to horizontal and three switches to standby mode.

With a few tutorials, I was up and shooting with a little practice. However, access to the advanced modes required a lot of patience because they are not organized in a single location. Many of the advanced recording modes are in camera mode in the mode dial at the bottom of the screen. For example, to activate Inception mode and rotate the camera, you need to go to Settings and change the Follow mode.

Hillary K. Grigonis / Digital Trends

Others aren't even a labeled button or even part of the original in-app tutorials. When you switch to underride mode for low-angle shots, the gimbal turns upside down. The low-settlement mode, which was called up by holding the trigger and tilting the gimbal forward, didn't work for me. I couldn't adjust the angle of the smartphone to accommodate anything other than the ground.

The OM 4 was also not very tripod-friendly for third parties. While I had no issues with the included tripod, I encountered some challenges when using a full-height tripod. In story mode, some of the automated movements jolted the camera, a strange bug that didn't repeat itself when used on the included tripod. Tightening the tripod screw helped but didn't fix the problem. The patterned ribs on the underside of the gimbal also tore off the handle on the mounting plate of my tripod.

Our opinion

The DJI OM 4 is not just a smartphone gimbal – it is a tool that will add cinematic movement even for beginners. The well-designed app, simple mounting system, variety of shooting modes, and portable design make the gimbal simple and modern at the same time, a combination that is nearly impossible.

Although the DJI OM is 4 eons before the gimbals the company created a few years ago, it's not perfect. The modes could be more organized and some of the more advanced features require some digging. I couldn't get the low-angle shooting modes to work well, the follow mode didn't use the full pan range, and the OM 4 didn't play well with a third-party tripod.

Is there a better alternative?

Smartphone gimbals are becoming more common – and there is a bit of competition. However, none seems to be as beginner-friendly as the balanced design and intuitive app of the OM 4. The Zhiyun Smooth 4 is a bit cheaper, but has advanced controls. Advanced users will like the focus dial, as well as the other physical and app-based controls, but beginners can be more intimidated by the extras.

How long it will take?

The DJI OM 4 has already asked us to download a firmware update, a good sign that the OM 4 will continue to experience new improvements via software. Aside from major glitches, the OM 4 should last a few years thanks to these updates, a solid design, and a mounting system compatible with a wide variety of smartphones.

Should you buy it?

If you've never tried a gimbal but want to eliminate the shaking of your videos and add cinematic camera movements in a few simple steps, buy the DJI OM 4. The OM 4 is incredibly beginner-friendly and unbalanced. In-app tutorials and automated camera movements with stories.

Editor's recommendations




08 May
Blog

DJI Mavic Air 2 Review: Better, Smarter, and Stronger

"Whether you are traveling for the first time or as a casual pilot, the DJI Mavic Air 2 rules the sky."

  • Detailed and crisp 4K 60 FPS footage

  • Excellent dynamic range with HDR recording

  • Easy to control

  • Long lasting battery life

  • Obstacle avoidance

  • The camera cannot deal with poor lighting conditions

DJI's dominance in the consumer drone market is relentless. It wasn't until last autumn that the company delighted everyone with its lightest and smallest drone, the Mavic Mini. However, to reach this size, the company had to remove some features that made it attractive for first-time buyers, but not for serious enthusiasts.

Enter the Mavic Air 2, successor to Mavic Air from 2018 and a far more legitimate competitor in the prosumer market. Given its outstanding features like 4K recording at 60 frames per second (FPS), the high-resolution 48-megapixel snapshot mode and a flight time of 34 minutes, you would think that this would cost as much as the Mavic Pro 2, but it does not, and that's what sets it apart.

Bloat

The Mavic Air 2 is slightly larger and heavier than its predecessor (570 grams). This is not a problem at all because the arms can be folded quickly for easy storage – ideal for stowing in a backpack. Sure, the Mavic Mini can be flown without having to register it with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), but the Mavic Air 2 maintains the same portability to make it a weekend street fighter. For comparison: The Mavic Mini measures 160 x 202 x 55 mm unfolded, while the Mavic Air 2 is not much larger with 183 x 253 x 77 mm.

As for looks, I don't mind that it has more to do with the Mavic Pro line – it's still a sleek drone. It has the same hard lines on its chassis, making it look more aggressive than its predecessor. Frankly, given the upgrades under the hood, it's a legitimate change. DJI drones have always set a standard for appearance, and the Mavic Pro maintains that. It looks and feels like a high-end part of the kit.

DJI Mavic Air 2 body close-up

If you are worried that the extra mass will slow down the speed, you shouldn't. The speed is not affected a bit – like its predecessor, it can reach a maximum speed of 42.5 miles per hour. You really get a feel for its speed in sport mode, which has stricter controls that help the Mavic Air 2 achieve a sophisticated acrobatics in the air. The maximum speed is only available in sport mode.

For most pilots, the normal mode with its balance between speed and responsiveness is more than enough, while the tripod mode offers slower and quieter movements.

It's also quieter than other drones I've flown, and its hum is almost quiet when it hovers in the air at about 150 feet. The most impressive thing is that the battery is designed for a flight time of 34 minutes, which is the longest in the Mavic line. Only a few drones for end users ever reach a speed of almost 30 minutes, with the vast majority clocking in the range of 20 to 25 minutes.

There is a lot of muscle power in a compact body.

Beginners will appreciate the intelligent pilot functions of the Mavic Air 2, which protect the drone from collisions and risky situations. The same forward and backward obstacle sensors as in the Mavic Air are also here, although they benefit from the predecessor by additional sensors pointing downwards. All of this helps power the latest DJI obstacle avoidance system.

In my experience, it has prevented the drone that is dead in its tracks from hitting a tree, even if you are still pressing your thumb on the controls. When you spend a huge amount of money on the Mavic Air 2, it's comforting that it's smart enough to avoid these disasters.

So when you look at everything that is on board, it is remarkable that everything is well packed together. It's a lot of muscle in a compact body.

Camera quality

At the center of the Mavic Air 2 is a new 12 megapixel 1/2-inch Quad Bayer CMOS sensor on a 3-axis gimbal. It is a larger sensor than the Mavic Air and Mavic Mini, so the overall performance alone can be improved.

Shutterbugs are particularly pleased with a new high-resolution 48 megapixel mode. Some comparison shots have greater detail and sharpness compared to the 12 megapixel shots, but the dynamic range isn't as good. However, some details in the shadows can be restored using an editor in the post. There's definitely a reason to use high-resolution mode, especially if you want to crop images later. In addition, I found the 12 megapixel snapshots perfect for social media posts.

There are significant improvements everywhere on the video page. It primarily records 4K video at 60 FPS, which even surpasses the 4K recording of the Mavic 2 Pro at 30 FPS. It's also worth noting that in this mode, a bit rate of 120Mbps (with HDR video recording at 100Mbps) is recorded, which gives more space to get details in the shadows and lights in the post. I also prefer the D-Cinelike profile because of its low contrast and unsaturated colors, because I can sort it better in the post according to my wishes.

It is undisputed that 4K 60 FPS and a bit rate of 120 Mbit / s are unique offers in the Mavic series and are also unique for drones in the same price range. Around $ 1,000 drones offer 4K 60FPS, and you'll generally have to run into this higher price range to get a competitive video bitrate.

The Mavic Air 2 also offers HDR video recording, a handy option for those who want to get the best results without having to work on footage later. This is due to the improved dynamic range as the highlights are toned down to prevent the sky from being blown out. Colors also get an increase in saturation to improve the overall picture, but noise is more common in shadows. In ideal conditions, however, it's not as distracting when it's sunny.

DJI Mavic Air 2 close-up of the camera

Other notable improvements over the predecessor are 1080p slow motion with 120 and 240 FPS and an 8K hyperlapse mode, which speeds up the footage in bite-size clips considerably. In addition, you have the cool shooting modes – like rocket, circle, and asteroid – that DJI has perfected to offer professional video to content creators.

The Mavic Air 2 has the tools and features that professionals crave to continue producing high quality content, but is also great for new flyers. The only disadvantage is that the quality decreases significantly in poor lighting conditions. I took it out at dusk with the sun already below the horizon. Even the larger sensor is still not enough to draw more light from the scene, which leads to high noise and loss of detail.

There are differences in performance, for example, that you get from the larger 1-inch sensor of the Mavic Pro 2 compared to this, which is why it is no surprise that performance in poor lighting conditions is not a drastic improvement over its predecessor. I wouldn't expect another drone with a 1/2 inch sensor to perform better.

Fly smarter

It's been a while since I last piloted a drone, but the safety standards introduced with the Mavic Air 2 make flying a breeze. Of course, the obstacle sensors discussed earlier help avoid collisions, but there are some other safety features that calm the mind.

The landing of the Mavic Air 2 is made easier under difficult lighting conditions by an additional light on the bottom of the drone. AirSense technology enables ADS-B signals to be received from other nearby aircraft and displays their locations on the screen. Finally, the updated APAS 3.0 system intelligently enables the Mavic Air 2 to avoid collisions and, in some situations, allows it to determine a path around obstacles. It is not always perfect to make some of these decisions, but I still have to face a serious collision.

DJI Mavic Air 2 controller

The controller supplied with the Mavic Air 2 has been redesigned. This time there is an area that you pull out from above to weigh your smartphone. It can be a little picky, especially if you have a thicker case on your phone. However, I like how the corresponding cable for connecting your smartphone is neatly stowed in the controller. The controller is a bit bulky, but I found it convenient to use.

In one case, the video feed was disconnected from the drone approximately 600 feet from my location during a flight. It was a heartbreaking moment, but I restarted the app, walked a few steps from my location, and the feed was set up again.

The Mavic Air 2 has updated Ocusync 2.0 transmission technology, which is supposed to deliver a reliable video feed at a distance of more than 10 kilometers, but must be line of sight. In my case, a small building may have blocked the connection. Fortunately, I only had to move a little to reconnect.

Our opinion

The DJI Mavic Air 2 is an impressive drone that is fun, easy and safe to fly. Whether you are new to the drone scene or an experienced professional pilot, the Mavic Air 2 offers everything you need. The price of the standard package is $ 799. However, I recommend spending the extra money to pick up the "Fly More Combo" for $ 988 as you get more value. You get a total of three batteries, a set of ND filters, additional propeller blades and a carrying case for the extra money.

Is there a better alternative?

Yes and no. The DJI Mavic Mini is an excellent drone for first and occasional pilots, which is partly due to its small size and lower costs. However, it does not achieve nearly the same range of functions as the Mavic Air 2.

Professionals who value performance should take a look at the Mavic 2 Pro, especially the larger sensor, which is better equipped in low light conditions. However, it is twice as expensive.

As for the rest? The only other drone that comes close to the Mavic Air 2 is the Skydio 2, which has a more sophisticated obstacle avoidance system. However, it costs more, runs shorter on battery life, and doesn't collapse into a more compact size.

How long it will take?

If you take the right flight arrangements, the solid build quality of the Mavic Air 2 will keep it going smoothly for a while. The propeller blades may need to be replaced at some point, but DJI throws an extra set into the box.

Buyers should also consider buying DJI Care Refresh + for $ 135 to protect the drone from water damage, collisions, and other crashes. It is comforting when you fly.

Should you buy it

Yes. This is an excellent drone that combines a lot of functions at a medium price.

Editor's recommendations