What To Know
- The Mavic 3 Classic offers a longer flight time of up to 46 minutes, while the Mavic 2 Pro has a flight time of up to 31 minutes.
- The Mavic 3 Classic comes with the RC-N1 remote controller, which has a built-in screen, while the Mavic 2 Pro uses the older RC-1 remote controller, which requires a smartphone or tablet for live view.
- The Mavic 2 Pro is a more compact and agile drone with a lower price point, making it a good option for hobbyists or those who prefer portability.
The DJI Mavic 3 Classic and Mavic 2 Pro are two of the most popular consumer-grade drones from DJI, renowned for their excellent image quality, portability, and advanced features. However, with the release of the Mavic 3 Classic, many enthusiasts are wondering how it compares to the older Mavic 2 Pro. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key differences between these two drones to help you make an informed decision.
Camera Capabilities
Sensor Size: The Mavic 3 Classic features a larger 4/3-inch sensor, while the Mavic 2 Pro has a smaller 1-inch sensor. A larger sensor typically captures more light and produces better low-light performance and dynamic range.
Resolution: Both drones offer 20-megapixel still image resolution, but the Mavic 3 Classic can also capture 5.1K video at 50fps, while the Mavic 2 Pro is limited to 4K video at 60fps.
Lens Quality: The Mavic 3 Classic has a brighter f/2.8 lens, allowing for more light to reach the sensor and resulting in sharper images. The Mavic 2 Pro has an f/2.8-f/3.8 variable aperture lens, providing more flexibility in controlling depth of field.
Flight Performance
Speed and Agility: The Mavic 3 Classic has a slightly higher top speed of 46 mph compared to the Mavic 2 Pro’s 44 mph. However, the Mavic 2 Pro is more agile and can perform faster maneuvers thanks to its smaller size and weight.
Flight Time: The Mavic 3 Classic offers a longer flight time of up to 46 minutes, while the Mavic 2 Pro has a flight time of up to 31 minutes. This extended flight time allows for longer and more extensive aerial photography sessions.
Obstacle Avoidance: Both drones have advanced obstacle avoidance systems, but the Mavic 3 Classic features a more sophisticated system with six vision sensors and two ultrasonic sensors, providing better protection against collisions.
Image Stabilization
Gimbal: The Mavic 3 Classic uses a 3-axis mechanical gimbal for image stabilization, while the Mavic 2 Pro has a 2-axis gimbal. The 3-axis gimbal provides more stability and smoothes out vibrations, resulting in steadier aerial footage.
Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS): The Mavic 3 Classic also has advanced EIS, which digitally stabilizes footage, further reducing camera shake and producing incredibly smooth video.
Intelligent Features
AutoFocus: The Mavic 3 Classic has a hybrid autofocus system that combines phase detection and contrast detection, providing faster and more accurate focusing compared to the Mavic 2 Pro’s contrast-detection autofocus.
ActiveTrack 5.0: The Mavic 3 Classic features ActiveTrack 5.0, an improved object tracking system that allows you to track subjects more precisely and smoothly.
MasterShots: The Mavic 3 Classic offers MasterShots, a new feature that automatically creates cinematic shots by performing a series of pre-programmed flight maneuvers around the subject.
Portability and Convenience
Size and Weight: The Mavic 2 Pro is slightly smaller and lighter than the Mavic 3 Classic, making it more convenient to carry and transport.
Folding Design: Both drones have foldable designs, allowing them to be easily stored and transported in a compact form factor.
Remote Controller: The Mavic 3 Classic comes with the RC-N1 remote controller, which has a built-in screen, while the Mavic 2 Pro uses the older RC-1 remote controller, which requires a smartphone or tablet for live view.
The Bottom Line: Choosing the Right Drone for Your Needs
The DJI Mavic 3 Classic and Mavic 2 Pro are both excellent drones for aerial photography. However, each has its own strengths and weaknesses. The Mavic 3 Classic offers superior image quality, longer flight time, and more advanced features, making it the better choice for professional photographers or enthusiasts who prioritize image quality and versatility. The Mavic 2 Pro is a more compact and agile drone with a lower price point, making it a good option for hobbyists or those who prefer portability.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: What is the main difference between the Mavic 3 Classic and the Mavic 2 Pro?
A: The Mavic 3 Classic has a larger sensor, brighter lens, and more advanced features, such as a 3-axis gimbal and ActiveTrack 5.0.
Q: Which drone has better low-light performance?
A: The Mavic 3 Classic has a larger sensor and a brighter lens, resulting in better low-light performance and dynamic range.
Q: Which drone is better for beginners?
A: The Mavic 2 Pro is slightly more compact and agile, making it easier to fly for beginners. It also has a lower price point.
Q: Which drone has a longer flight time?
A: The Mavic 3 Classic has a longer flight time of up to 46 minutes, compared to the Mavic 2 Pro’s 31 minutes.
Q: Which drone is better for professional photography?
A: The Mavic 3 Classic offers superior image quality and more advanced features, making it the better choice for professional photographers.
