Should I get the Mini 3 or spend more for the Mini 4 Pro?

Hi, I’m hoping for some advice here. My 10-year-old son wants a drone for Christmas. He tried a friend’s Mini 4 Pro and now says he wants one too.

The Mini 4 Pro is around €1000, while the Mini 3 is about €460. My instinct is to go for the Mini 3, but I’ve read that the Mini 4 Pro might be easier to use. At the same time, I’m not sure how much he’ll actually use it for the price.

What would you recommend? Thanks in advance!

I’d suggest the Mini 4K. It’s not as beginner-friendly since it doesn’t have obstacle avoidance, but the price is much better. Once you get the hang of flying, obstacle avoidance doesn’t feel worth the extra cost. Just make sure to get DJI Care for added protection.

@Eli
Thanks! So you think I should just get the Mini 3? I don’t see a Mini 3 Pro available where I am.

Jade said:
@Eli
Thanks! So you think I should just get the Mini 3? I don’t see a Mini 3 Pro available where I am.

Actually, I’d recommend the Mini 4K over the Mini 3. Here’s a link: https://store.dji.com/si/product/dji-mini-4k?vid=166281

Have you considered the Neo? It’s cheaper and has cool features like ‘follow me,’ which the Minis can’t do. It’s also safer and more durable.

Jay said:
Have you considered the Neo? It’s cheaper and has cool features like ‘follow me,’ which the Minis can’t do. It’s also safer and more durable.

The Mini can definitely do everything the Neo does. :grinning:

Jay said:
Have you considered the Neo? It’s cheaper and has cool features like ‘follow me,’ which the Minis can’t do. It’s also safer and more durable.

Thanks! I looked into it, but it seems like he’d need a smart controller for that? The Neo is the only one I see with an alternate controller where I live.

@Jade
The Neo has about six fully autonomous modes. It can work with your phone for extra features, use DJI controllers, and even pair with a visor for first-person flying. It’s really versatile, which is what makes it stand out.

Another quick question—does the Mini 3 (not the Pro) automatically return home when the battery gets low, like the Mini 4 Pro does?

Jade said:
Another quick question—does the Mini 3 (not the Pro) automatically return home when the battery gets low, like the Mini 4 Pro does?

Yes, it does. The Mini 4K also has this feature and costs less than the Mini 4 Pro.

Honestly, I wouldn’t buy a drone for a 10-year-old.

Anderson said:
Honestly, I wouldn’t buy a drone for a 10-year-old.

I understand where you’re coming from, but it’s on his wish list. I’m trying to find something affordable but still decent, especially since he does sports where it could be useful.