DJI has introduced a compact drone Mini 3 – a more accessible version than the one announced in May DJI Mini 3 Pro, aimed at amateurs and those who are just starting to get acquainted with the world of UAVs. The novelty has small dimensions, but is able to stay in the air for more than half an hour and supports video recording in 4K.
The weight of the DJI Mini 3, like the Pro models, is 249 grams – the drone easily fits into a bag or even a pocket. The low weight means that the operation of the drone in most countries is allowed without the permission of the regulatory authorities – however, in Russia the restriction in 150 grams, then the novelty will have to be registered. Mini 3 can withstand wind speeds of up to 10.7m/s, despite its modest size: it can hover and deliver a stable image even in gusty winds.
The drone has a 1/1.3-inch sensor camera that allows you to shoot 4K resolution video at 30 frames per second with HDR support. You can also take photos at 12 or 48 megapixels. 180°, wide angle and spherical panorama shooting modes are available. DJI Mini 3 features 2x digital zoom for 4K video at 30fps, 4x for 1080p and 2x for 12MP photos.
The drone supports Quickshots automatic shooting modes, the software platform is equipped with a set of pre-programmed flight and shooting trajectories. It is also possible to organize a live broadcast of the image in 720p with a frequency of 30 frames per second at a distance of up to 10 km.
When using the standard Intelligent Flight Battery, the DJI Mini 3 has a maximum flight time of 38 minutes, but this time can be increased to 51 minutes with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus. There are automatic takeoff and automatic return modes: the latter works when the battery is low and the signal is lost. The satellite navigation system is complemented by a downward view system and infrared sensors to maintain a stable position when hovering.
The most notable difference from the DJI Mini 3 Pro to the budget model is the latter’s support for 4K video recording at 60fps without HDR and 1080p transmission at 30fps up to 12km away. The Pro also has obstacle avoidance sensors that the Mini 3 lacks. But this is made up for by the price difference.
If the DJI Mini 3 Pro without a controller costs $669, then the similar Mini 3, which goes on sale in January 2023, will be offered for $409. The rest of the configurations went on sale today: the version with the DJI RC controller -N1 will cost $499; for a set with a DJI RC controller with a screen, you will have to pay $634; and the $658 DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo includes the drone, DJI RC-N1 controller, bag, reversible charging hub, and a spare pair of Intelligent Flight Batteries.
If you notice an error, select it with the mouse and press CTRL + ENTER.