The DJI Flip has just been released, but how does it compare to the reigning king of mini drones, the Mini 4 Pro? The Mini 4 Pro has held its position as the top mini drone for a while now, and with the arrival of the Flip, many are wondering which one is the better choice. In this article, we will explore all the similarities and differences between these two drones to help you decide which one is right for you.
Table of Contents
Size and Weight
Both drones weigh under 250 grams, making them easier to travel with and legal to fly in more locations compared to larger drones. Despite their differences in design, their overall footprint remains quite similar.
Camera Capabilities
Both the DJI Flip and the Mini 4 Pro feature a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor with an f/1.7 fixed aperture, allowing for excellent low-light performance. Additionally, both drones can capture 48MP stills and 4K 60fps HDR video.
Video Transmission
Both drones utilize Ocusync 4 technology, providing a 1080p video signal to the controller. This ensures a stable and high-quality video feed during flight.
Design and Safety Features
One of the most noticeable differences is the propeller guard design. The DJI Flip features full-coverage propeller guards, making it safer for indoor flying and more resilient against obstacles. The Mini 4 Pro, on the other hand, does not have propeller guards, which may make it more vulnerable in tight spaces.
Vertical Video Capabilities
While both drones can capture vertical videos, the Mini 4 Pro does so natively by physically rotating the camera. This allows it to maintain full video settings, including 4K 60fps HDR and slow motion. The Flip, however, crops the video to achieve a vertical aspect ratio, limiting it to 2.7K resolution.
Obstacle Avoidance and Tracking
The Mini 4 Pro excels in obstacle avoidance, featuring full omnidirectional obstacle sensors that help it navigate around objects in all directions. It also supports ActiveTrack 360, allowing it to track various subjects such as people, cars, boats, and bikes. In contrast, the DJI Flip only has a 3D infrared sensor at the front, meaning it lacks full obstacle avoidance and can only track people.
Flight Range
While both drones support Ocusync 4, the Mini 4 Pro boasts a range of up to 20km, whereas the Flip is limited to 13km. However, since regulations require drones to be flown within line of sight, this difference may not be a major factor for most users.
Battery Life
Battery life is another key difference. The DJI Flip offers a flight time of up to 31 minutes under ideal conditions. The Mini 4 Pro, however, provides two battery options:
- Standard Battery: 34 minutes
- Plus Battery: 45 minutes (exceeds 250g weight limit)
The extended battery option gives the Mini 4 Pro a significant advantage in terms of flight endurance.
Wind Resistance
Both drones have a level 5 wind resistance rating, making them highly capable in windy conditions. However, the Flip struggles against strong winds due to its propeller guards, which increase drag and reduce its flight speed. The Mini 4 Pro, without propeller guards, performs better in high-wind scenarios.
Slow Motion Capabilities
Both drones can capture 4K slow motion at 100fps, but the Mini 4 Pro has an edge with 1080p slow motion at 200fps, whereas the Flip maxes out at 100fps in 1080p.
Unique Features of the DJI Flip
While the Mini 4 Pro has a clear advantage in many areas, the DJI Flip introduces some unique features that may appeal to beginners and casual users.
Controller-Free Operation
The DJI Flip can be operated without a controller, making it highly user-friendly. It can be hand-launched and controlled via a smartphone app, offering a variety of QuickShot modes, such as:
- Circle
- Helix
- Boomerang
- Rocket
- Dronie
Voice and Audio Features
The Flip allows for voice control through the app, enabling users to execute commands without manual input. Additionally, it can record audio from a connected microphone or smartphone, syncing it with video footage for a seamless content creation experience.
Hybrid Concept
The DJI Flip feels like a hybrid between the Mini 4 Pro and the DJI Neo, combining beginner-friendly features with advanced capabilities. Its intuitive controls make it a great entry-level option for those new to drone flying.
Conclusion
So, which drone should you choose? Go for the Mini 4 Pro if you want advanced features, superior obstacle avoidance, longer flight time, better wind resistance, and high-quality vertical video. Choose the DJI Flip if you prefer a beginner-friendly, controller-free experience with fun QuickShot modes and a safer indoor flying experience. While the Mini 4 Pro remains the king of mini drones, the Flip introduces an exciting new approach to drone flying, especially for casual users and beginners. Ultimately, the best drone for you depends on your specific needs and flying style.
Read More: DJI Launches Dock 3 for Autonomous Drone Operations
