Thinking about finally upgrading but wanted to hear if it’s actually worth it from folks who’ve done it. Is it really that big of a difference in real-world use?
The biggest changes are the dual zoom cameras (3x and 7x), longer battery life, and the newer remotes.
Even just the extra flight time is a game-changer compared to the older Mavic 2.
Also, good luck finding Mavic 2 batteries that aren’t swollen by now… and even when they’re good, they don’t last nearly as long as the Mavic 3’s in actual use.
I’d definitely say go for something newer — doesn’t have to be the Mavic 3 Pro. The Air 3 offers most of the benefits for a lot less money.
@Marlon
Appreciate the breakdown! Is the range way better too? My M2P works fine but sometimes I lose signal even when I’m close by.
Jessie said:
@Marlon
Appreciate the breakdown! Is the range way better too? My M2P works fine but sometimes I lose signal even when I’m close by.
Yeah, especially if you’re talking about the Air 3 — it uses the O4 system and it’s a huge step up.
Just to be clear though, it’s not like signal can go through thick concrete or anything, but the new smart Return to Home helps a ton now.
If you’re using something like the RC Pro remote, you’ll see even better range. That said, here’s how I’d rank the range from best to worst (in my experience):
- Mavic 4 Pro (haven’t flown it yet, but probably best)
- Air 3 series and Mini 4 Pro
- Mavic 3 with the RC Pro remote
- Mavic 3 or other O3 models with regular remotes
- Mavic 2 with the smart controller
- Mavic 2 with the standard controller
When I switched from the Mavic 3 to the Air 3, I noticed right away how much better the signal held up — even in tricky areas. Neither is perfect, but the Air 3 really impressed me.
I just went from the Mavic 2 Pro with smart controller to the Mavic 3 Pro with RC Pro. The current political mess in the US made me pull the trigger.
I’ve had it for a couple weeks now — happy to answer anything you’re curious about.
@Wynne
Did you find a good deal on the M2 Pro before you upgraded?
Haru said:
@Wynne
Did you find a good deal on the M2 Pro before you upgraded?
Nah, I bought mine brand new when it first dropped haha.
@Wynne
How different are the three cameras with that bigger sensor compared to the M2P?
And did the connection range improve a lot? I’ve got the regular controller and I hate having to use my phone every time.
Do you feel the price was worth it overall?
@Jessie
Honestly, the cameras are night and day — no pun intended. Big step up.
The signal is also way more reliable. I used to deal with more interference on the smart controller. But I’m using the RC Pro now, so just keep in mind that helps a lot.
If you want to see side-by-side shots of the M3 Pro vs M2 Pro, just let me know!
@Wynne
Yeah I’m mainly interested in better range. Drives me nuts when it loses signal and I’m not even that far out.
Would love to see some comparison shots too!
Also — the M3 Pro claims over 40 minutes of flight time. Is it really that long or closer to 30 in real use?
@Jessie
So the regular RC (with the screen) has just 2 antennas, while the RC Pro (black one with screen) has 4 — 2 internal, 2 external. That extra boost makes a noticeable difference.
You can PM me if you want the pics.
As for flight time: with the M2P, I was lucky to hit 24 minutes. On the M3P, I regularly get about 35 minutes in real conditions. So yeah, it’s a big improvement.
Still hanging onto my Mavic Pro 2 with the smart controller… but I keep wondering if I’m really missing out on much. Trying to convince myself it’s time to upgrade.
Just a reminder — better camera gear doesn’t always mean better photos. How you use it makes a big difference too.