DJI Mini 3: A Comprehensive Review of DJI’s Sub-250g Drone with Enhanced Features

DJI Mini 3: Unveiling the Evolution

In the latter part of 2019, DJI revolutionized the drone market with the introduction of their first sub-250g drone. Fast forward to today, and we find ourselves exploring the brand-new DJI Mini 3, the latest addition to the Mini family. This preliminary review aims to provide insights into the drone’s features, improvements, and its suitability for enthusiasts entering the peak holiday shopping season.

Key Features at a Glance

1. Sensor and Lens:

• 12MP, Type 1/1.3 (10 x 7.5mm) sensor
• 24mm (equiv.) lens with a fixed F1.7 aperture

2. Video Capabilities:

• Portrait shooting
• Ability to zoom up to 4X on video
• 4K/30p video
• H.264 codec and 100 Mbps bitrate
• Raw and JPEG image capture

3. Flight Performance:

• OcuSync 2.0 (O2) image transmission – 10 km (6.2 mi) range
• Downward Vision Sensing
• Compatible with DJI RC remote
• Up to 38 or 51 minutes flight time
• 249g

What We Like

1. Advanced Sensor and Aperture:

• Type 1/1.3 (10 x 7.5mm) sensor
• Fixed F1.7 aperture

2. Extended Battery Life:

• Up to 38 or 51 minutes of battery life

3. Quiet Flight Experience:

• Enjoy a noise-free flying experience

4. Remote Compatibility:

• Compatible with a variety of DJI remotes

What We Don’t

1. Price Consideration:

• Still a bit pricey

2. Startup Duration:

• Can take a few minutes to start up on cold flight

3. Video Profile Limitations:

• No D-Cinelike profile or 10-bit color

4. Safety Features:

• No obstacle detection or avoidance sensors

The Pro Comparison

What distinguishes the Mini 3 from its Pro counterpart is the absence of DJI’s 10-bit D-Cinelike profile, limiting post-processing flexibility. However, its compatibility with DJI’s RC remote, powering both the Mavic 3 series and the RC-N1 remote, adds to its versatility. Consider the Mini 3 as a standalone unit or explore the Mini 3 Pro for additional features.

As we delve deeper into the realm of DJI’s Mini 3, we uncover a drone that balances enhanced features with the lightweight convenience users have come to love. Is it time to elevate your drone experience? The decision lies in the nuanced details and your specific aerial needs.