DJI drones are renowned for their camera quality, compact design, and efficient performance. This company regularly releases new drone models with better features and improved functionality. The most recent model from DJI was the Mini 3 Pro, an upgrade of the DJI Air 2S.
Both drone models are powerful and have impressive features, making it difficult to pick the best. Nevertheless, they have some notable differences. In this article, we’ll look at the DJI Air 2S vs Mini 3 Pro to help you make an informed choice. Let’s get cracking!
Although the DJI Air 2S and Mini 3 Pro drones belong to the same company, these drone models have major differences. Here is an overview table highlighting the main features of each drone model.
| Features | DJI Mini 3 Pro | DJI Air 2S |
| Dimensions | 145 × 90 × 62 mm (folded); 171×245×62 mm (unfolded); 251×362×70 mm (with propellers) | 180×97×77 mm (folded); 183×253×77 mm (unfolded) |
| Take-off weight | 249g | 595g |
| Obstacle sensing | 3-Directional Obstacle Sensing | 4-Directional Obstacle Sensing |
| Diagonal length | 247mm | 302mm |
| Image sensor | 1/1.3″ CMOS | 1″ CMOS |
| Max Flight time | Regular battery: 34 minutes New pro battery: 47 minutes | 31 minutes |
| Photo resolution | 48MP | 20MP |
| Max. image size | 12MP | 20MP |
| Video resolution | Up to 4K/60fps HDR | 5.4K/30fps, 4K/60fps |
| Lens | Aperture: f/1.7 | Aperture: f/2.8 |
| Battery type | Li-ion | LiPo 3S |
| Charging Voltage Limit | 8.5V | 12.6V / 13.2V |
| Battery cell composition | Lithium-Ion | Lithium Polymer |
The battle between the DJI Air 2S and DJI Mini 3 Pro is quite interesting due to the camera. Both models feature excellent cameras. They can capture images with 1080 pixels at 120pfs. Additionally, they feature intelligent flight modes, including:
Nevertheless, these cameras are quite different. The DJI Mini 3 Pro’s camera can rotate, offering a wide field of vision for portrait photography, which the Air 2S lacks. This feature can be quite useful for people who like creating content for platforms such as TikTok and Instagram.
Another good thing about the DJI Mini 3 Pro camera is that it has better photo resolution than the Air 2S. Its sensor can capture images with a resolution of up to 48 megapixels as opposed to the Air 2S’s 20 megapixels.
The DJI Air 2S camera can record images with a resolution of up to 5.4K at 30fps. This drone’s camera also has a better digital zoom of up to 4x in 4K vs. 2x, particularly on the mini model, and has an 8-1/8000s vs. 2-1/8000s shutter speed. Additionally, it has a diverse color profile, which is one of the reasons why users love it so much. If you’re looking for more information about the DJI Air 2S camera, go through our DJI Air 2S review.
Most drones are equipped with internal storage to help them store the images and videos they capture during operation. However, the storage capacities for each drone model are quite different.
The DJI Air 2S has 8 GB of internal storage, while the DJI Mini 3 Pro only has 1.2 GB. This internal storage capacity is quite limited. However, you can buy a separate microSD card to store your videos and images.
Different drones support different microSD cards. When buying an SD card, ensure it’s compatible with your drone for efficient performance. The DJI Air 2S supports UHS-I Speed Grade 3 micro-SD cards with a storage capacity of up to 256 GB, whereas the DJI Mini 3 Pro is compatible with microSD cards with UHS-I Speed Class 3 or above.
The DJI Air 2S and DJI Mini 3 Pro feature four foldable arms which you can extend during operation. When folded, the DJI Air 2S measures 180 x 97 x 77 mm and 183 x 253 x 77 mm when unfolded. Conversely, the DJI Mini 3 Pro is 145 x 90 x 62 mm when folded and 175 x 245 x 62 mm when unfolded.
Another similar design feature of these two devices is the front-facing camera and a downward-facing sensor array. The cameras are placed on a three-axis gimbal to improve stability.
In terms of weight, the DJI Air 2S is heavier compared to the DJI Mini 3 Pro. On average, the former weighs about 21 ounces while the latter weighs about 9 ounces, making it quite portable. If you want to travel with your drone and use it to capture memorable events like hiking, the DJI Mini 3 Pro would be ideal.
The main thing that makes the DJI Air 2S heavier is that it includes extra features such as obstacle avoidance sensors.
Despite the DJI Air 2S being heavier, it has its advantages. This drone offers more stability and wind resistance during flight.
The DJI Air 2S comes with a Li-ion, and the DJI Mini 3 Pro has a Li-Po 3S. These batteries have different capacities. The former has a capacity of 2453 mAh, while the latter accommodates a maximum of 3750 mAh.
Another thing worth noting about these batteries is their weight. The DJI Air 2S drone battery weighs 3.2 ounces, while the DJI Mini 3 Pro weighs 7 ounces.
These batteries offer different flight times, but they’re quite close. The standard flight time for the Air 2s model is about 34 minutes, but the Mini 3 pro battery can last for 31 minutes when fully charged. The only similarity between the two batteries is that they offer 30 minutes of hovering time.
When using the DJI Mini 3 Pro, you can use a more powerful battery that offers you longer hovering and flight time. This battery upgrade option makes the drone perfect for professional use.
However, the battery is prohibited in some areas like the UK and the US. If you want to use it, you have to register.
DJI decided to include the obstacle avoidance mode in their Mini drones to enable them to detect objects like trees in their flight paths, offering you a reliable and safer flight experience.
The DJI Air 2S and DJI Mini 3 Pro drones support the APAS 4.0 software, enabling them to detect objects in their flight path quickly.
Nevertheless, their detection capabilities differ. The DJI Air 2S has upward, forward, downward, and backward sensors, while the DJI Mini 3 Pro only has the Pro Forward, Backward, and Downward sensors.
This means the DJI Air 2S has a powerful sensing capability compared to the DJI Mini 3 Pro. Therefore, the latter would suit your needs if you plan to fly your drone in a region with many obstacles.
Another advantage of the drone is its ADS-B air traffic control Trusted Source ADS-B Air Traffic Control (ATC) Applications | Federal Aviation Administration ADS-B is now the preferred method of surveillance for air traffic control across the nation. Its real-time precision and new tools help controllers manage traffic for improved safety and capacity. www.faa.gov monitoring system which enables it to detect other drones or aircraft flying nearby and avoid a collision. The drone also features LED lights, allowing you to fly it in areas with poor lighting.
DJI Air 2S and DJI Mini 3 Pro drones have two main options when it comes to remote controllers. Both of them come with a DJI RC-N1 standard remote controller compatible with either drone.
In other words, if you want to get a new Mini 3 Pro drone but already own the DJI Air 2S, you can go for a package that doesn’t have a remote controller since you can use the one that belongs to the DJI Air 2S. This way, you’ll save a lot of money.
These drones also allow you to use a remote controller with an integrated screen. With the newly designed DJI RC controller for the DJI Mini 3 Pro, you can fly your drone without mounting your phone or tablet since it features a built-in screen. It resembles the DJI RC Pro more when it comes to the interior display.
The DJI Smart Controller, primarily designed for taking pictures outside, is compatible with the DJI Air 2S. Its extremely bright display normally remains visible even in direct sunlight.
Regarding range, the DJI Mini 3 Pro features a maximum transmission range of DJI Mini 3 Pro. On the other hand, the Air 2’s transmission range is about 11.5 miles.
Both DJI Air 2S and DJI Mini 3 Pro have similar intelligent features, such as FocusTrack, MasterShots, Hyperlapse, and QuickShots. These features can help you take aerial shots in quick, easy steps.
The best thing about these flight modes is that they’re easy to use. You don’t have to be an experienced photographer to use them.
The main difference between these two drone models is that the DJI Mini 3 Pro offers vertical shooting. Images shot using the vertical shooting mode are commonly used on social media platforms such as Instagram.
When analyzing a drone’s flight performance, you should look at factors such as wind resistance ability and speed.
The DJI Air 2S is quite big compared to the DJI Mini 3 Pro. This means it offers better wind resistance. On average, its wind resistance strength range is about 30-38 mph. The DJI Mini 3 Pro, on the other hand, is relatively small. Its wind resistance strength is about level 23.9 mph.
When comparing the speed of the two drone models, the DJI Air 2S is quite fast. Its average speed is about 42 mph, while that of the DJI Mini 3 Pro is around 35.8 mph. A drone with faster speeds lets you cover more ground in less time. They’re suitable for rescue, delivery, search, and rescue activities.
Price is another major factor to consider when comparing different drone models. Generally, The DJI Mini 3 Pro is quite affordable compared to the DJI Air 2S. Nevertheless, this price is worth it, considering the features it offers while keeping the weight under 250 grams.
The Mini 3 Pro goes for about $669 in most retail stores if the package doesn’t include a controller and $759 if the controller is included. The price rises to about $909 if the controller has an in-built screen.
Conversely, the DJI Air 2S price starts at $999 if the drone has one battery, but you can pay $1299 for the Fly More Combo, which comes with three batteries, ND filters, and other accessories.
Also, for $1799, you may upgrade the bundle to include DJI’s Smart Controller. Despite all the extra features, the Mini 3 Pro still appears significantly affordable.
A drone is a significant investment. Although price can determine the type of drome you buy, it shouldn’t be a major consideration. Always look at the value that the device offers. Drones with extra useful features are often quite expensive but offer value for your money.
Most importantly, always compare the prices that other retailers offer. You may find a certain retailer selling a specific drone at higher prices while another one sells the exact drone at affordable prices. This way, you’ll easily avoid extortion.
When you choose this path, you need to be extra careful since some retailers may sell you counterfeit products at lower prices.
The DJI Mavic Air 2S is ideal for professional photographers and videographers since it has better camera quality and a longer flight time. Another reason is that this drone has a varied color profile, and its weight allows it to remain stable even when there’s a strong wind.
Additionally, it features an SDK upgrade Trusted Source What is a software development kit (SDK)? – Definition from TechTarget Software development kits help developers build apps for diverse platforms. Learn how SDKs work, how they differ from APIs and the benefits of using an SDK. www.techtarget.com that makes it more compatible with third-party apps, allowing you to use it for other things.
The DJI Mini 3 Pro is suitable for people who want to create content for social media platforms or just capture memorable events such as a vacation thanks to its tri-directional obstacle avoidance, vertical gimbal position, 10-bit color profile, and lightweight. You can post the images and videos captured with this drone without having to crop them.
Yes. If you’ve been using the Mini 2 drone model, the Mini 3 series is a significant upgrade. This is because the drone features quality cameras, an in-built screen with controllers, and obstacle avoidance. These features are not available on other Mini drone models.
Switching from the Air 2S model to the Mini 3 Pro would be an upgrade since it has a powerful battery and better camera quality. Its wind resistance strength is also quite strong. However, you can still buy the Air 2S model and use it as an alternative when traveling.
DJI Air 2S and DJI Mini 3 Pro are excellent drone models. However, your choice depends on what you’re using the drone for. The Air 2S would be suitable if you’re using it for recreational purposes, while the Mini 3 Pro is suitable for recreational purposes. If you’re on a tight budget, the Mini 3 Pro would be a perfect choice. Carefully Go through our DJI Air 2S vs Mini 3 Pro review for more information on the best drone to choose.
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