As we wrap up 2026, two drones stand out in the budget-friendly category for beginners and casual flyers: the DJI Mini 3 and the Skyrover S1. The DJI Mini 3 has long been considered the king of entry-level drones, but the Skyrover S1 arrives as serious new competition, offering impressive features at a much lower price.
After weeks of hands-on testing, this comparison breaks down design, camera quality, flight features, battery life, and overall value to help you decide which drone is right for you.
Amazon Deals: DJI Mini 3 & SkyRover S1
Table of Contents
Under 250g: No FAA Registration Required
Both the DJI Mini 3 and Skyrover S1 weigh under 250 grams, which is a major advantage. In countries like the United States, drones under this limit do not require FAA registration for recreational flying, making them ideal for beginners.
Size & Design Comparison
When folded, the Skyrover S1 is slightly taller than the Mini 3. The reason is simple:
Skyrover S1 includes front-facing obstacle avoidance sensors, while the Mini 3 does not.
This gives the S1 an immediate edge in safety, especially for first-time pilots who may not yet have full control confidence.
Obstacle Avoidance: Big Win for Skyrover S1
- Skyrover S1: Front + bottom obstacle sensors
- DJI Mini 3: Bottom sensors only
For beginners, front obstacle avoidance is a valuable feature that can help prevent crashes during forward flight. This makes the Skyrover S1 a safer option for new drone pilots.
Camera Sensor & Image Quality
- DJI Mini 3: 1/1.3-inch sensor
- Skyrover S1: 1/2-inch sensor
On paper, the Mini 3 has a larger sensor. However, real-world testing shows that image and video quality are surprisingly close. Thanks to modern image processing, the Skyrover S1 often matches the Mini 3 in dynamic range and color.
In many scenes, footage from both drones looks equally good, with neither being a clear winner every time.
Video Resolution & Frame Rates
- Skyrover S1: 4K at 60fps
- DJI Mini 3: 4K at 30fps
If you want smoother footage or slow-motion capability, the Skyrover S1 clearly wins here with 4K/60fps recording.
Both drones use a 3-axis gimbal and have a similar aperture, ensuring stable and sharp footage.
Vertical Video for Social Media
- DJI Mini 3: True vertical shooting in 4K (physical camera rotation)
- Skyrover S1: Vertical mode is cropped 2.7K (digital crop)
For creators focused on Instagram Reels, TikTok, or YouTube Shorts, the DJI Mini 3 offers superior vertical video quality.
Transmission & Connectivity
- DJI Mini 3: OcuSync 2.0
- Skyrover S1: Skybridge transmission
In real-world testing, both drones deliver rock-solid connections with minimal signal drop when flying within line of sight. For beginners, reliability here is excellent on both models.
Controller & App Experience
DJI offers the optional DJI RC controller with a built-in screen, which removes the need to connect a smartphone. This is a premium feature but costs extra.
The Skyrover S1 requires a smartphone connection, but its app UI is nearly identical to DJI’s, making it extremely easy to use especially for anyone who has flown DJI drones before.
Intelligent Flight Modes & Tracking
- DJI Mini 3: QuickShots only (no subject tracking)
- Skyrover S1: ActiveTrack, Spotlight, Point of Interest
The Skyrover S1 stands out by offering basic subject tracking, which is perfect for solo creators who want the drone to follow them while walking or jogging.
Battery Life Comparison
- Skyrover S1: Rated 40 minutes
- DJI Mini 3: Rated 38 minutes (up to 51 minutes with Plus battery)
In real-world use, both drones deliver about two-thirds of their rated flight time. DJI does offer an extended battery option, but it adds cost and weight.
Price & Overall Value
- Skyrover S1: ~$269 (drone + controller)
- DJI Mini 3: ~$400+ (basic bundle)
This is where the Skyrover S1 truly shines. For under $300, you get obstacle avoidance, 4K/60fps video, subject tracking, and solid transmission—features that cost significantly more with DJI.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
- Choose the DJI Mini 3 if you want:
- True 4K vertical video
- DJI ecosystem and accessories
- A proven, long-standing model
- Choose the Skyrover S1 if you want:
- Best value for money in 2025
- Obstacle avoidance for safer flying
- 4K/60fps video and subject tracking
- A lower entry price for beginners
Best Budget Drone of 2025: Skyrover S1
While the DJI Mini 3 is still an excellent drone, the Skyrover S1 offers more features at a much lower price, making it the new best bang-for-buck beginner drone in 2025.
Read More: DJI Avata 2 vs Real FPV Drones – Which One is Right for You?
