Hi everyone, first-time poster here! I’ve been flying drones with the DJI Mini 2 for a while and absolutely love it. I use it mostly to take videos and photos of nature and the river near where I live, but now I’m ready to upgrade.
I’ve narrowed it down to three options with a budget of $1500. I found a second-hand Mavic 3 Fly More combo with the RC-N1 controller for $1500, but I’ve also been impressed by what the Air 3s and Mini 4 Pro offer. Now I’m stuck trying to decide. Each one has pros and cons, and I’m struggling to make a choice.
The Mavic 3 has a Hasselblad sensor and amazing features, but its sensors for flying near trees seem to be lacking compared to the Air 3s and Mini 4 Pro. The Air 3s gets great reviews for its sensors, LiDAR, and new tech, but the camera isn’t as good as the Mavic’s. Meanwhile, the Mini 4 Pro is super portable and has true vertical shooting, which I’d use for social media, but its camera doesn’t match up to the other two.
I fly a lot in low-light conditions and near trees, so that’s a big factor for me. Any advice on which one would be the best pick?
If you’re into filming nature, I’d recommend either the Mavic 3 or the Air 3s. The Mavic 3 has that amazing 4/3 Hasselblad camera and D-log color profile, but I’d wait until the Mavic 4 comes out for a price drop. The Air 3s is great too, though its camera isn’t as powerful, and it only has D-logM.
I went with the Mini 4 Pro because I knew I’d use it more often, and it’s less noticeable. Honestly, I’d still choose it today. That said, there have been times when it struggled in strong winds, but for most things, it’s perfect. It’s also great for travel, especially in places like Canada or the UK, where the sub-249g weight is a big plus.
Honestly, it depends on what you need it for. For me, the Mini 4 Pro works perfectly since I travel a lot and can’t deal with anything bigger. The Air 3s is better overall, but the Mini 4 Pro is just so convenient for my use.
@Vernon
That’s a good point! I already have the Mini 2, so I’m trying to figure out if the Mini 4 Pro would feel too similar. I do worry about the slower speed of the Mini 4 Pro compared to the other two for things like filming boats or UTVs.
@Tariq
It really depends on how much of a workhorse you need it to be. For me, it’s more of a fun gadget, so I’m okay with compromises to keep it portable. Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy it!
Vernon said: @Tariq
It really depends on how much of a workhorse you need it to be. For me, it’s more of a fun gadget, so I’m okay with compromises to keep it portable. Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy it!
Thanks! Most of my flying is at sea level, but I also go to the Rockies (4500-6000 ft) regularly. How does the Mini 4 Pro handle higher altitudes?
@Tariq
I’ve flown it in over 30 countries, including high-altitude areas, and it’s done great! But strong winds can be tricky, and the Air 3s would probably handle those better. With enough experience, though, you’ll know how to deal with most conditions.