Quick notes
- The DJI 4 Pro is faster and has a slightly longer range than the Mini 3 Pro.
- Both drones offer a range of intelligent features, but the DJI 4 Pro has a slight advantage with its Waypoints 2.
When it comes to the world of drones, DJI reigns supreme. Their latest offerings, the Mini 3 Pro and the 4 Pro, have taken the drone industry by storm. Both drones offer impressive features, but which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive into the key differences between the DJI Mini 3 Pro and the 4 Pro, helping you make an informed decision.
Camera: A Battle of Resolution and Features
DJI Mini 3 Pro:
- 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor
- Maximum resolution: 48MP (stills), 4K/60fps (video)
- 3-axis gimbal for smooth footage
- HDR video recording
DJI 4 Pro:
- 1-inch CMOS sensor
- Maximum resolution: 20MP (stills), 4K/60fps (video)
- 3-axis gimbal with obstacle avoidance
- 10-bit D-Log profile for advanced color grading
Verdict: The DJI 4 Pro has a larger sensor, which provides better low-light performance and more dynamic range. However, the Mini 3 Pro offers a higher maximum resolution for stills and HDR video recording.
Flight Performance: Speed, Agility, and Range
DJI Mini 3 Pro:
- Maximum speed: 36 mph (58 kph)
- Maximum flight time: 34 minutes (with Intelligent Flight Battery Plus)
- Maximum range: 7.5 miles (12 km)
DJI 4 Pro:
- Maximum speed: 45 mph (72 kph)
- Maximum flight time: 30 minutes
- Maximum range: 9.3 miles (15 km)
Verdict: The DJI 4 Pro is faster and has a slightly longer range than the Mini 3 Pro. However, the Mini 3 Pro offers longer flight times, which can be crucial for longer missions.
Obstacle Avoidance: Safety and Peace of Mind
DJI Mini 3 Pro:
- Vision sensors on the front, bottom, and rear
- Automatic obstacle avoidance in all directions
DJI 4 Pro:
- Vision sensors on all sides
- Obstacle avoidance in all directions, including upward
- ActiveTrack 4.0 for improved subject tracking
Verdict: Both drones offer comprehensive obstacle avoidance, but the DJI 4 Pro has a slight edge with its upward obstacle avoidance and improved subject tracking.
Portability and Convenience: Size and Weight
DJI Mini 3 Pro:
- Folded size: 5.5 x 5.5 x 1.9 inches
- Weight: 249 grams (without battery)
DJI 4 Pro:
- Folded size: 6.3 x 3.8 x 2.8 inches
- Weight: 520 grams (without battery)
Verdict: The DJI Mini 3 Pro is significantly smaller and lighter than the 4 Pro, making it more portable and convenient to carry around.
Intelligent Features: Advanced Flight and Capture Modes
DJI Mini 3 Pro:
- QuickShots (Dronie, Circle, Helix, Rocket, Boomerang)
- MasterShots (Automatic flight path with multiple shots)
- Hyperlapse (Time-lapse with smooth camera movement)
DJI 4 Pro:
- QuickShots (Dronie, Circle, Helix, Rocket, Boomerang)
- MasterShots (Automatic flight path with multiple shots)
- Hyperlapse (Time-lapse with smooth camera movement)
- Waypoints 2.0 (Advanced flight path planning)
- CineSmooth mode (Smoother footage for cinematic shots)
Verdict: Both drones offer a range of intelligent features, but the DJI 4 Pro has a slight advantage with its Waypoints 2.0 and CineSmooth mode.
Price and Value: Which Drone Fits Your Budget?
DJI Mini 3 Pro:
- Starting price: $759 (without remote controller)
- Fly More Kit (includes extra batteries and accessories): $858
DJI 4 Pro:
- Starting price: $1,649 (without remote controller)
- Fly More Kit (includes extra batteries and accessories): $1,748
Verdict: The DJI Mini 3 Pro is significantly more affordable than the 4 Pro, making it a better value for budget-conscious users.
Final Note: The Best Drone for Your Needs
The choice between the DJI Mini 3 Pro and the 4 Pro ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize portability, convenience, and affordability, the Mini 3 Pro is an excellent choice. For users who demand the best possible image quality, advanced obstacle avoidance, and intelligent features, the 4 Pro is worth the investment.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: Which drone has a better camera for low-light photography?
A: The DJI 4 Pro has a larger sensor, which provides better low-light performance.
Q: Which drone is faster and has a longer range?
A: The DJI 4 Pro is faster and has a slightly longer range than the Mini 3 Pro.
Q: Which drone is more portable and convenient to carry around?
A: The DJI Mini 3 Pro is significantly smaller and lighter than the 4 Pro, making it more portable and convenient.
Q: Which drone offers more intelligent features?
A: Both drones offer a range of intelligent features, but the DJI 4 Pro has a slight advantage with its Waypoints 2.0 and CineSmooth mode.
Q: Which drone is more affordable?
A: The DJI Mini 3 Pro is significantly more affordable than the 4 Pro, making it a better value for budget-conscious users.