What To Know
- The Air 3 has more advanced intelligent features, such as MasterShots, which automatically generates a highlight reel of your footage, and FocusTrack, which allows you to select a subject and have the drone track it autonomously.
- The Mavic Air comes with a dedicated remote control with a built-in display and a range of up to 4 miles.
- Both the Mavic Air and Air 3 are relatively easy to fly, but the Mavic Air may be slightly more accessible for beginners due to its more compact design and lighter weight.
The DJI Mavic Air and Air 3 are two of the most popular drones on the market, offering exceptional aerial photography and videography capabilities. But which one is the better choice? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key features, performance, and value of both drones to help you make an informed decision.
Camera Quality
Mavic Air
The Mavic Air features a 12MP CMOS sensor with a 1/2.3-inch field of view and a 24mm equivalent lens. It can capture 4K video at 30fps and 12MP still images in JPEG or RAW formats.
Air 3
The Air 3 boasts a 1/2-inch CMOS sensor with a 12MP resolution. It offers a slightly wider field of view of 20mm and can capture 4K video at up to 60fps. Additionally, it has a superior dynamic range of 12.8 stops, allowing for more detailed images in high-contrast lighting conditions.
Flight Performance
Mavic Air
The Mavic Air has a top speed of 43 mph in Sport mode and a maximum flight time of 21 minutes. It features a 3-axis gimbal for image stabilization and a range of up to 4 miles.
Air 3
The Air 3 excels in flight performance, reaching a top speed of 50 mph and a maximum flight time of 25 minutes. Its 3-axis gimbal provides even smoother video footage, and its extended range of up to 7.5 miles allows for more extensive aerial exploration.
Obstacle Avoidance
Mavic Air
The Mavic Air is equipped with a forward-facing obstacle avoidance system that uses stereo cameras to detect and avoid obstacles in front of the drone.
Air 3
The Air 3 has a more advanced obstacle avoidance system, featuring sensors on all four sides of the drone. It can detect and avoid obstacles in front, behind, above, and below, providing enhanced safety and maneuverability.
Intelligent Features
Mavic Air
The Mavic Air offers a range of intelligent flight modes, including QuickShots for automated cinematic shots and ActiveTrack for tracking moving subjects.
Air 3
The Air 3 has more advanced intelligent features, such as MasterShots, which automatically generates a highlight reel of your footage, and FocusTrack, which allows you to select a subject and have the drone track it autonomously.
Remote Control and Connectivity
Mavic Air
The Mavic Air comes with a dedicated remote control with a built-in display and a range of up to 4 miles.
Air 3
The Air 3 has a more compact remote control without a built-in display. However, it offers a longer range of up to 7.5 miles and supports Wi-Fi connectivity for direct control from a mobile device.
Pricing and Value
Mavic Air
The DJI Mavic Air is currently available for around $499.
Air 3
The DJI Air 3 is priced at around $699.
Which Drone is Right for You?
The DJI Mavic Air is a more affordable option with a compact design and decent camera quality. It’s an excellent choice for beginners or casual users looking for a reliable drone for aerial photography and videography.
The DJI Air 3 offers superior flight performance, a more advanced camera system, and more intelligent features. It’s a better choice for experienced users or those who demand the best possible image quality and aerial capabilities.
Final Thoughts
Both the DJI Mavic Air and Air 3 are exceptional drones that offer a range of features and capabilities. The Mavic Air is a great value for beginners, while the Air 3 is the superior choice for professional photographers and videographers. Ultimately, the best drone for you depends on your individual needs and budget.
Questions You May Have
1. Which drone has better battery life?
The DJI Air 3 has a slightly longer maximum flight time of 25 minutes compared to the Mavic Air‘s 21 minutes.
2. Does the Air 3 have a built-in display on the remote control?
No, the Air 3’s remote control does not have a built-in display.
3. Which drone is easier to fly?
Both the Mavic Air and Air 3 are relatively easy to fly, but the Mavic Air may be slightly more accessible for beginners due to its more compact design and lighter weight.
