I’ve been researching drones for the last few weeks because I’m considering getting into the hobby soon. I’m fresh out of college, so budget is a primary concern. My research has shown that the DJI Neo and Mini 4K are probably the best on the market for a super low budget.
From several comparison videos and discussions I’ve read, it seems that the Mini 4K is better than the Neo in terms of wind resistance, picture quality, not flying away randomly, and even affordability (it comes with a controller, while the Neo needs one to do proper manual flying, but it’s not included).
So then, why is the Neo more popular? There are way more YouTube videos discussing it, and the subreddit for it has far more members than the other. Is it because it’s so durable and therefore more appealing for kids and novice pilots? I’m just curious as I weigh each option for myself. I’m 23 and have flown drones before but haven’t owned a nice one.
For me, it’s the versatility. FPV is super fun to fly, while just flying around with the mini is boring. The controller-less mode is also practical for hikes. I have a Mini 3 Pro and a Neo; the Neo is always in my pocket, the Mini 3 Pro just occasionally.
The Neo is everywhere because it was new, shiny, and in a class of its own when it was released. For the price, I had no hesitation buying it, whereas buying the Mini 1 and the Mini 4 Pro was much more deliberate.
The onboard functionality is great, and when you add the compact size, it becomes amazing. However, if you add a dash of V1 issues, it drops back to being great.
I love tossing it in my pocket or day pack and being able to fly it in a few moments for tracking shots while hiking or connecting to my phone to fly manually. No controller needed.
I was hoping for a Neo 2, but they went with the Flip. While the Flip is more stable in wind and has the same solo functionality, the size isn’t quite as easy to manage with the folding and bigger props. Still hoping they release a Neo 2 with some fun updates.
u/crump18 mentioned finding a better drone than the 4K for less. If you can wait a bit, there should be some new drones coming out in either a month or two or in the fall. You could wait for the price drop prior to those releases and see what you can pick up then.
I found the Mini 2 on Marketplace. I got the drone, controller, two batteries, and a carry bag for $225. My start was used, but the Mini 2 is amazing for my first drone. It’s better than the Mini 4K, and I found it for cheaper.