Started with the Mini series. Definitely get DJI Refresh—it’s worth it.
Get the DJI Air 3S. Skip the Mini, especially with your budget. $1500 gets you the Fly More package, which includes extra batteries. You’ll want those for sure.
The M350 or the Matrice 4T are great choices.
Finley said:
The M350 or the Matrice 4T are great choices.
Matrice 4T was my first drone. Love it! Take it on every family trip for vlogging 
I have both the Mini 4 Pro and Air 3S. The Mini 4 Pro is super light—almost feels flimsy when unfolding it. The Air 3S is way more solid. Once DJI passed the 249g limit, they made the Air 3S as sturdy as possible. The Mini 4 Pro seems built with weight savings in mind, so the plastic and arms feel thinner.
That said, I love both drones. The Mini 4 Pro is a great machine, but if you’re looking for something ‘robust,’ it’s not the best pick. It can handle moderate wind, but anything over 40kph is pushing it. Whatever you get, go for the RC2 and Fly More combo—it’s more expensive upfront, but cheaper than buying extras later.