What To Know
- In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the DJI Air 3 and the Phantom 4 Pro, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
- The DJI Air 3 starts at $999, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to the Phantom 4 Pro.
- The Phantom 4 Pro is priced at $1,599, offering a higher price tag but also a more advanced set of features and capabilities.
In the realm of aerial photography and videography, DJI has emerged as an industry leader, renowned for its cutting-edge drone technology. Among their most popular models are the DJI Air 3 and the Phantom 4 Pro, both offering exceptional capabilities for capturing breathtaking footage. However, choosing between these two drones can be a daunting task, as they share many similarities while also having distinct strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the DJI Air 3 and the Phantom 4 Pro, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and preferences.
Camera Capabilities: A Clash of Resolution and Dynamic Range
DJI Air 3: The Air 3 boasts a 12-megapixel CMOS sensor capable of capturing stunning 4K videos at 60fps and 120fps in slow motion. Its 1/2.3-inch sensor size provides a good balance between image quality and portability.
Phantom 4 Pro: The Phantom 4 Pro features a larger, 1-inch CMOS sensor with an impressive 20-megapixel resolution. This larger sensor allows for more detailed images and better low-light performance. It can capture 4K videos at 60fps, but its slow-motion capabilities are limited to 120fps at 1080p.
Flight Performance: Endurance, Speed, and Agility
DJI Air 3: The Air 3 has a maximum flight time of 21 minutes and a top speed of 43 mph. Its compact size and foldable design make it highly portable and easy to transport.
Phantom 4 Pro: The Phantom 4 Pro boasts a longer flight time of 30 minutes and a faster top speed of 45 mph. Its larger size and more powerful motors provide increased stability and maneuverability in windy conditions.
Intelligent Features: Obstacle Avoidance and Auto Tracking
DJI Air 3: The Air 3 is equipped with DJI’s advanced obstacle avoidance system, which uses forward, backward, and downward-facing sensors to detect and avoid obstacles. It also features ActiveTrack 3.0, an auto-tracking technology that allows you to follow moving subjects with ease.
Phantom 4 Pro: The Phantom 4 Pro has a similar obstacle avoidance system but lacks ActiveTrack 3.0. Instead, it offers Draw mode, which allows you to draw a flight path on the screen, and the drone will follow it autonomously.
Portability and Convenience
DJI Air 3: The Air 3 is designed for maximum portability, weighing just 570 grams and featuring a foldable design that makes it easy to pack and transport.
Phantom 4 Pro: The Phantom 4 Pro is larger and heavier than the Air 3, weighing 1,388 grams. Its non-foldable design makes it less convenient to carry around.
Price and Value
DJI Air 3: The DJI Air 3 starts at $999, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to the Phantom 4 Pro.
Phantom 4 Pro: The Phantom 4 Pro is priced at $1,599, offering a higher price tag but also a more advanced set of features and capabilities.
Which Drone is Right for You?
The choice between the DJI Air 3 and the Phantom 4 Pro ultimately depends on your specific requirements. If you prioritize portability, value, and ease of use, the DJI Air 3 is an excellent choice. However, if you demand the best possible image quality, longer flight times, and more advanced intelligent features, the Phantom 4 Pro is the superior option.
Beyond the Comparison: Additional Considerations
Other Factors to Consider:
- Camera Lens: The Air 3 has a fixed 20mm lens, while the Phantom 4 Pro offers a wider 24mm lens.
- Storage Capacity: The Air 3 has 512GB of internal storage, while the Phantom 4 Pro has 16GB and requires a microSD card.
- Accessories and Compatibility: Both drones have a wide range of compatible accessories, but the Phantom 4 Pro has a more extensive ecosystem.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Which drone has better image stabilization?
Both drones have excellent image stabilization systems, but the Phantom 4 Pro’s larger sensor and more powerful processor give it a slight edge.
2. Can I use the Phantom 4 Pro’s controller with the Air 3?
No, the controllers for the Air 3 and Phantom 4 Pro are not interchangeable.
3. Does the Air 3 support D-Log recording?
Yes, the Air 3 supports D-Log recording, which provides more flexibility for color grading in post-production.
4. Can I attach external filters to the Phantom 4 Pro’s camera?
Yes, the Phantom 4 Pro has a built-in ND filter system and can also accommodate external filters.
5. Which drone is better for professionals?
The Phantom 4 Pro is generally considered the better choice for professionals due to its advanced image quality, longer flight time, and more comprehensive feature set.
