What To Know
- While the Autel Lite+ has a larger sensor, the DJI Air 3’s higher resolution and frame rate provide an edge in capturing sharp and detailed footage.
- The DJI Air 3 has a maximum speed of 15 meters per second (m/s) in Sport mode, while the Autel Lite+ offers a slightly higher speed of 17 m/s.
- The DJI Air 3 folds into a compact size of 162 x 90 x 72 mm, while the Autel Lite+ has a slightly smaller folded size of 140 x 89 x 62 mm.
The world of aerial photography has witnessed a surge in the popularity of compact and powerful drones, with DJI and Autel emerging as leading contenders in this arena. The DJI Air 3 and Autel Lite+ have garnered significant attention for their impressive capabilities. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key features, strengths, and limitations of these two exceptional drones to help you make an informed decision about your next aerial photography investment.
Camera Performance
Sensor Size and Resolution
The DJI Air 3 boasts a 1/2-inch CMOS sensor capable of capturing 12-megapixel still images and 4K video at 60 frames per second (fps). The Autel Lite++ features a slightly larger 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor, offering 12-megapixel still images and 4K video at 30 fps. While the Autel Lite+ has a larger sensor, the DJI Air 3’s higher resolution and frame rate provide an edge in capturing sharp and detailed footage.
Dynamic Range
The DJI Air 3’s HDR mode offers a dynamic range of 12.6 stops, while the Autel Lite+ provides a dynamic range of 11.6 stops. A higher dynamic range allows for capturing images with a wider range of tones, preserving details in both bright and dark areas. The DJI Air 3 thus has a slight advantage in this aspect, resulting in more balanced and visually pleasing images.
Flight Performance
Flight Time
The DJI Air 3 boasts an impressive flight time of up to 21 minutes, while the Autel Lite+ offers a slightly shorter flight time of up to 18 minutes. This difference may seem insignificant, but it can be crucial for capturing longer shots or exploring more extensive areas.
Speed and Agility
The DJI Air 3 has a maximum speed of 15 meters per second (m/s) in Sport mode, while the Autel Lite+ offers a slightly higher speed of 17 m/s. Both drones exhibit exceptional agility and responsiveness, making them ideal for capturing dynamic aerial footage.
Gimbal Stabilization
3-Axis Gimbal
Both the DJI Air 3 and Autel Lite+ feature 3-axis mechanical gimbals, ensuring smooth and stable footage even in challenging conditions. The DJI Air 3 utilizes a more advanced stabilization algorithm, resulting in slightly smoother and more stable footage, especially during high-speed maneuvers.
Obstacle Avoidance
Obstacle Avoidance Technology
The DJI Air 3 employs the DJI Advanced Pilot Assistance System (APAS) 3.0, which uses advanced sensors to detect and avoid obstacles in real-time. The Autel Lite+ also features an obstacle avoidance system, but it is not as sophisticated as the DJI Air 3’s APAS 3.0. This difference translates into a safer and more automated flying experience with the DJI Air 3.
Intelligent Features
Smart Modes
Both drones offer a range of intelligent flight modes, such as ActiveTrack, Point of Interest, and QuickShots. However, the DJI Air 3 has a wider selection of smart modes, including MasterShots, which automatically creates cinematic shots with minimal user input.
Image Transmission
The DJI Air 3 utilizes the OcuSync 3.0 transmission system, offering a maximum transmission range of up to 15 kilometers (km). The Autel Lite+ utilizes the Autel SkyLink 2.0 transmission system, providing a range of up to 12 km. The DJI Air 3’s longer transmission range ensures more reliable and stable video transmission, especially in areas with potential interference.
Portability and Design
Compact and Foldable
Both drones are designed to be portable and easy to transport. The DJI Air 3 folds into a compact size of 162 x 90 x 72 mm, while the Autel Lite+ has a slightly smaller folded size of 140 x 89 x 62 mm. The DJI Air 3’s slightly larger size provides additional stability and wind resistance.
Build Quality
The DJI Air 3 and Autel Lite++ are both constructed with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. The DJI Air 3 features a magnesium alloy frame, making it more rugged and resistant to impacts.
Key Points: DJI Air 3 vs. Autel Lite+
The DJI Air 3 and Autel Lite++ are both exceptional drones that offer a compelling blend of features and performance. The DJI Air 3 excels in terms of camera resolution, dynamic range, flight time, obstacle avoidance, intelligent features, and image transmission. The Autel Lite+, on the other hand, has a slightly larger sensor, higher maximum speed, and a more compact folded size.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize image quality, flight time, and advanced features, the DJI Air 3 is the clear winner. If portability, speed, and affordability are your top concerns, the Autel Lite+ may be a more suitable option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Which drone has a better camera?
A1: The DJI Air 3 has a higher resolution sensor and a wider dynamic range, resulting in better image quality.
Q2: Which drone has a longer flight time?
A2: The DJI Air 3 has a slightly longer flight time of up to 21 minutes, compared to the Autel Lite++’s 18 minutes.
Q3: Which drone has better obstacle avoidance?
A3: The DJI Air 3’s APAS 3.0 system provides more advanced obstacle avoidance capabilities compared to the Autel Lite+.
