Quick Overview
- The Mini 3’s remote controller features a built-in screen, which provides a live view of the camera feed and allows you to control the drone’s settings.
- The Mini 3 provides a more advanced camera and intelligent features, while the X8 is slightly more affordable and offers a longer flight time.
- The DJI Mini 3 has a larger sensor and a wider field of view, resulting in better image quality and more expansive shots.
In the realm of compact camera drones, the DJI Mini 3 and FIMI X8 stand out as formidable contenders. Both offer a compelling combination of portability, image quality, and advanced features, making them ideal for aerial photography and videography enthusiasts. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the key differences between these two drones to help you make an informed decision.
Camera Capabilities
Sensor: The DJI Mini 3 boasts a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor with a resolution of 12MP, while the FIMI X8 features a 1/2.6-inch CMOS sensor with a resolution of 12MP. Despite the larger sensor size, the FIMI X8’s lower resolution may result in slightly less detail in images, especially in low-light conditions.
Lens: The Mini 3 offers a wider field of view (83°) compared to the X8 (79°), allowing for more expansive shots. Both drones feature adjustable apertures, enabling you to control the depth of field.
Video Quality: The Mini 3 supports 4K video recording at up to 60fps, while the X8 can capture 4K video at 30fps. The Mini 3’s higher frame rate provides smoother motion, particularly for fast-paced action shots.
Flight Performance
Speed and Agility: The Mini 3 has a maximum speed of 39mph, while the X8 can reach speeds of up to 35mph. Both drones are highly agile, with the Mini 3 offering slightly better maneuverability due to its smaller size.
Flight Time: The Mini 3’s standard battery provides up to 38 minutes of flight time, while the X8’s battery offers up to 35 minutes. However, the Mini 3 has an optional extended battery that can extend flight time to 51 minutes.
Obstacle Avoidance: Both drones feature obstacle avoidance systems, but the Mini 3’s is more advanced. It uses a combination of sensors and algorithms to detect and avoid obstacles in real-time, ensuring safer flight.
Portability and Convenience
Size and Weight: The Mini 3 weighs just 249g, making it one of the lightest compact drones on the market. The X8 is slightly heavier at 258g, but it still remains highly portable.
Folding Design: Both drones feature a foldable design, making them easy to transport and store. The Mini 3’s compact size allows it to fit into smaller bags or backpacks.
Remote Controller: The Mini 3’s remote controller features a built-in screen, which provides a live view of the camera feed and allows you to control the drone’s settings. The X8’s remote controller does not have a built-in screen, but it can be paired with a smartphone or tablet for live viewing.
Intelligent Features
QuickShots: Both drones offer a range of automated QuickShot modes, which allow you to capture complex aerial shots with just a few taps. However, the Mini 3’s QuickShot modes are more advanced and include features such as FocusTrack and MasterShots.
Hyperlapse: The Mini 3 supports Hyperlapse, a feature that allows you to create time-lapse videos with smooth, cinematic motion. The X8 does not offer this feature.
ActiveTrack: Both drones feature ActiveTrack, which allows you to lock onto a subject and have the drone automatically follow it. The Mini 3’s ActiveTrack 4.0 is more precise and responsive than the X8’s ActiveTrack 3.0.
Price and Value
The DJI Mini 3 starts at $499, while the FIMI X8 is priced at $449. Both drones offer excellent value for their respective price points. The Mini 3 provides a more advanced camera and intelligent features, while the X8 is slightly more affordable and offers a longer flight time.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Drone for You
The DJI Mini 3 and FIMI X8 are both exceptional compact camera drones with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. If you prioritize image quality, advanced features, and portability, the DJI Mini 3 is the better choice. However, if you are looking for a more affordable option with a longer flight time, the FIMI X8 is a solid contender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which drone has a better camera?
A: The DJI Mini 3 has a larger sensor and a wider field of view, resulting in better image quality and more expansive shots.
Q: Which drone has a longer flight time?
A: The FIMI X8 has a slightly longer flight time of 35 minutes compared to the Mini 3’s 38 minutes. However, the Mini 3 has an optional extended battery that can extend flight time to 51 minutes.
Q: Which drone is more portable?
A: The DJI Mini 3 is significantly smaller and lighter than the FIMI X8, making it more portable and convenient to carry.
Q: Which drone has more advanced intelligent features?
A: The DJI Mini 3 offers more advanced intelligent features, including FocusTrack, MasterShots, and Hyperlapse.
Q: Which drone is more affordable?
A: The FIMI X8 is slightly more affordable than the DJI Mini 3, starting at $449 compared to $499.