Exploring DJI's game-changing mini 4 pro. Advanced features and enhanced performance
26.09.2023 posted by Admin
Since Skydio has decided to step away from the consumer drone market and won't be offering the compact self-flying drone I've been dreaming of, I've turned my attention towards DJI. Their newly announced DJI Mini 4 Pro, priced at $759, has caught my eye, thanks in part to its advanced features, including omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
In 2022, the Mini 3 Pro could detect obstacles in front, behind, and below it, but we had an unfortunate incident where we crashed it into a tree rather swiftly. The inclusion of binocular vision in all directions in the Mini 4 Pro could be a game-changer if it functions effectively. Additionally, its smaller wingspan might make it more agile in navigating between trees and branches.
In many respects, the Mini 4 Pro elevates the Mini 3 Pro to a level similar to the larger and pricier $1,099 DJI Air 3. It already shared similarities in terms of the main camera (1/1.3-inch, 48-megapixel, f/1.7 with 82-degree FOV) and a battery life exceeding 40 minutes. However, it now boasts omnidirectional obstacle avoidance, 100fps 4K shooting (and 200fps 1080p shooting), and Ocusync 4 video transmission with a range of 20 kilometers (up from 12 km), all of which were previously exclusive to the Air.
Just like with the Mini 3 Pro, you can anticipate around half an hour of battery life with the included battery, or nearly 40 minutes if you opt for the larger "Intelligent Flight Battery Plus." However, this upgraded battery isn't available in Europe due to its weight exceeding the 249-gram limit. While DJI is promoting "True Vertical Shooting" as a key feature of the Mini 4 Pro, it's worth noting that the Mini 3 Pro (and the $469 Mini 3) already possess this capability.
The Mini 3 remains DJI's go-to option for affordability and extended battery life, offering an additional four to six minutes of flight time, depending on the battery used.
If you're seeking more speed, you'll still want to consider the Air or a superior model, as they ascend and descend at twice the speed of the Mini, clocking in at a pokey five meters per second (compared to the Air's 25 percent faster speed on straight paths). Additionally, the Air comes equipped with a second f/2.8 70mm-equivalent telephoto camera, providing greater versatility.
I'd recommend using DJI's side-by-side comparison website to scrutinize the differences between the Mini 4 Pro, Mini 3 Pro, and DJI Air 3 – it's a helpful way to visualize their distinctions.
If you're already a Mini 3 Pro owner or planning to invest in accessories, you'll be pleased to know that the Mini 4 Pro utilizes the same batteries. However, due to the upgraded Ocusync 4 video transmission, you will need a new controller for the Mini 4 Pro.
In 2022, the Mini 3 Pro could detect obstacles in front, behind, and below it, but we had an unfortunate incident where we crashed it into a tree rather swiftly. The inclusion of binocular vision in all directions in the Mini 4 Pro could be a game-changer if it functions effectively. Additionally, its smaller wingspan might make it more agile in navigating between trees and branches.
In many respects, the Mini 4 Pro elevates the Mini 3 Pro to a level similar to the larger and pricier $1,099 DJI Air 3. It already shared similarities in terms of the main camera (1/1.3-inch, 48-megapixel, f/1.7 with 82-degree FOV) and a battery life exceeding 40 minutes. However, it now boasts omnidirectional obstacle avoidance, 100fps 4K shooting (and 200fps 1080p shooting), and Ocusync 4 video transmission with a range of 20 kilometers (up from 12 km), all of which were previously exclusive to the Air.
Just like with the Mini 3 Pro, you can anticipate around half an hour of battery life with the included battery, or nearly 40 minutes if you opt for the larger "Intelligent Flight Battery Plus." However, this upgraded battery isn't available in Europe due to its weight exceeding the 249-gram limit. While DJI is promoting "True Vertical Shooting" as a key feature of the Mini 4 Pro, it's worth noting that the Mini 3 Pro (and the $469 Mini 3) already possess this capability.
The Mini 3 remains DJI's go-to option for affordability and extended battery life, offering an additional four to six minutes of flight time, depending on the battery used.
If you're seeking more speed, you'll still want to consider the Air or a superior model, as they ascend and descend at twice the speed of the Mini, clocking in at a pokey five meters per second (compared to the Air's 25 percent faster speed on straight paths). Additionally, the Air comes equipped with a second f/2.8 70mm-equivalent telephoto camera, providing greater versatility.
I'd recommend using DJI's side-by-side comparison website to scrutinize the differences between the Mini 4 Pro, Mini 3 Pro, and DJI Air 3 – it's a helpful way to visualize their distinctions.
If you're already a Mini 3 Pro owner or planning to invest in accessories, you'll be pleased to know that the Mini 4 Pro utilizes the same batteries. However, due to the upgraded Ocusync 4 video transmission, you will need a new controller for the Mini 4 Pro.