DJI is preparing to launch a drone that, by all logic, shouldn’t exist. What was initially believed to be the DJI Avata 3 turned out to be something far more ambitious the DJI Avatar 360. Those filings revealed dual 1/1.1-inch sensors and a larger upgraded battery, setting the stage for DJI’s most radical FPV drone yet.
What makes the Avatar 360 truly groundbreaking is that it isn’t just another FPV drone with a better camera. DJI has created a two-in-one drone, combining a professional-grade 360 camera with a traditional FPV racing platform. The drone features a rotating camera housing that switches between full 8K 360-degree capture and forward-facing FPV mode, essentially merging two entirely different products into a single body.
Key Highlights of the DJI Avatar 360
- Dual 1/1.1-inch CMOS sensors
- Rotating camera housing for 360° and FPV modes
- 8K 360 video at up to 50fps
- 5K 60fps and 4K 120fps in FPV mode
- OcuSync 4 with up to 20 km range
- Advanced omnidirectional obstacle avoidance
Price and Market Positioning
Price is the first major factor separating the Avatar 360 from the Avata 2. The Avata 2 launched at $849, making it a relatively affordable entry point into FPV flying. The Avatar 360, however, is expected to retail between $999 and $1,299, depending on the bundle. While that is a significant jump, the added cost isn’t just branding. Dual large sensors and a mechanically rotating camera system require complex engineering and expensive components.
When compared to competitors like the Insta360 Antigravity A1 priced between $999 and $1,700 DJI’s pricing appears calculated rather than excessive. DJI is positioning the Avatar 360 as the most versatile option in the market, capable of replacing both a 360 camera drone and a traditional FPV drone.
Camera System: Where the Magic Happens
According to FCC filings, the Avatar 360 features dual 1/1.1-inch CMOS sensors, a major step up from the single-sensor system on the Avatar 2.
Avatar 2 Camera:
- Single sensor
- 4K at 60fps
- 155° field of view
- Excellent stabilization, but limited versatility
Avatar 360 Camera:
- Dual sensors in a rotating module
- 8K 360° video at 50fps
- 5K at 60fps or 4K at 120fps in FPV mode
- Field of view between 155° and 170°
Unlike competitors such as the Insta360 Antigravity A1 which is locked into 360-only shooting the Avatar 360 lets you instantly switch back to traditional FPV. This flexibility makes it ideal for creators who want both immersive footage and classic FPV shots from the same flight.
Battery Life and Flight Performance
Battery performance highlights DJI’s priorities with the Avatar 360. The Avata 2 uses a 30.67Wh battery, delivering roughly 18 to 23 minutes of flight time. The Avatar 360 increases battery capacity to 38.67Wh, a 26% improvement. DJI estimates approximately 25 minutes of flight time, which is impressive considering the power demands of dual sensors and real-time 8K processing.
For comparison, the Insta360 Antigravity A1 is expected to manage only about 15 minutes of flight time. More battery means fewer swaps, longer shoots, and more creative freedom.
Weight, Regulations, and Portability
Both the Avata 2 and Avatar 360 weigh 377 grams, placing them firmly above the sub-250g threshold. Early rumors suggested DJI might achieve a sub-250g design, but the dual sensors and larger battery made that unrealistic. This means registration is required in most countries.
Here, the Insta360 A1 has a clear advantage at 249 grams, making it more appealing to travelers who want fewer regulatory concerns. DJI clearly chose performance and endurance over portability.
Transmission, Control, and Obstacle Avoidance
The Avatar 360 upgrades DJI’s transmission system from OcuSync 3 to OcuSync 4, doubling the maximum range to 20 km in ideal conditions. It supports the new Motion Controller 3, RC2 remote, and Goggles N3, giving pilots more control options and extended creative reach.
Obstacle avoidance is another area where the Avatar 360 significantly outclasses the Avata 2. While the Avata 2 offers basic forward detection, the Avatar 360 includes omnidirectional sensing, combining visual cameras and LiDAR. This allows for safer autonomous tracking, smoother subject following, and greater confidence during complex shots.
A Launch Against the Clock
DJI’s decision to rush the Avatar 360 to market is no accident. With the threat of FCC restrictions approaching, DJI is racing to establish dominance before regulatory barriers potentially shut them out of the U.S. market. This urgency explains the aggressive development and release timeline.
Final Verdict: Which Drone Should You Buy?
If your focus is traditional FPV flying, acrobatics, and racing and you want proven reliability at a lower cost the Avata 2 remains an excellent choice. It’s refined, stable, and purpose-built for FPV enthusiasts.
However, if you are a professional content creator, filmmaker, or experimental storyteller who values flexibility, immersive footage, and future-proof technology, the DJI Avatar 360 represents a major leap forward. It’s not just a new drone it’s an entirely new category.
DJI is betting that versatility justifies premium pricing. Given the technology packed into the Avatar 360, that bet may very well pay off.
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