What To Know
- The DJI Mini 3 and Mini SE 2 are two of the most popular compact drones on the market, offering a combination of portability, affordability, and impressive features.
- However, the Mini 3 has a more compact design, making it even easier to carry in a backpack or pocket.
- However, if you’re on a tighter budget and don’t need the most cutting-edge features, the Mini SE 2 is a solid option.
The DJI Mini 3 and Mini SE 2 are two of the most popular compact drones on the market, offering a combination of portability, affordability, and impressive features. But which one is right for you? In this in-depth comparison, we’ll pit the DJI Mini 3 against the Mini SE 2 to help you make an informed decision.
Camera Capabilities
Image Quality
The DJI Mini 3 boasts a 1/1.3-inch sensor with a resolution of 12.1MP, while the Mini SE 2 has a 1/2.3-inch sensor with a resolution of 12MP. The larger sensor on the Mini 3 provides better low-light performance and dynamic range, resulting in more detailed and vibrant images.
Video Performance
The Mini 3 supports 4K video recording at 30fps, while the Mini SE 2 is limited to 2.7K video at 30fps. Both drones offer smooth and stable footage, but the Mini 3’s higher resolution provides a more cinematic experience.
Flight Performance
Flight Time
The DJI Mini 3 has a maximum flight time of 38 minutes, while the Mini SE 2 offers 31 minutes. The longer flight time of the Mini 3 allows for more extended aerial explorations.
Speed and Agility
The Mini 3 has a top speed of 39 mph, while the Mini SE 2 tops out at 29 mph. The Mini 3 is also more agile, with a faster acceleration rate and improved handling.
Obstacle Avoidance
The DJI Mini 3 features a forward-facing obstacle avoidance system, which helps prevent collisions. The Mini SE 2 lacks this feature, making it less suitable for flying in complex environments.
Design and Portability
Both drones are incredibly portable, weighing under 250 grams. However, the Mini 3 has a more compact design, making it even easier to carry in a backpack or pocket.
Intelligent Features
QuickShots
The DJI Mini 3 and Mini SE 2 both offer a variety of QuickShots, which are pre-programmed flight maneuvers that capture stunning aerial footage. The Mini 3 has a wider selection of QuickShots, including some that are exclusive to the Pro version.
Hyperlapse
Hyperlapse is a technique that creates time-lapse videos with smooth camera movements. Both drones support hyperlapse, but the Mini 3’s higher resolution and more advanced stabilization system produce more impressive results.
Panorama
The DJI Mini 3 and Mini SE 2 can both stitch together multiple images to create panoramic shots. The Mini 3’s larger sensor and higher resolution provide for more detailed and immersive panoramas.
Price and Availability
The DJI Mini 3 starts at $499, while the Mini SE 2 is available for $299. The Mini 3 Pro, which includes a higher-resolution camera, longer flight time, and more advanced obstacle avoidance, is priced at $799.
Which Drone is Right for You?
The DJI Mini 3 and Mini SE 2 are both excellent drones for different needs and budgets. If you’re looking for the best possible image and video quality, longer flight time, and advanced features like obstacle avoidance, the Mini 3 is the clear choice. However, if you’re on a tighter budget and don’t need the most cutting-edge features, the Mini SE 2 is a solid option.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Which drone has a better camera?
A: The DJI Mini 3 has a larger sensor and higher resolution, providing better image and video quality.
Q: Which drone flies for longer?
A: The DJI Mini 3 has a longer maximum flight time of 38 minutes compared to the Mini SE 2’s 31 minutes.
Q: Which drone is more portable?
A: Both drones are portable, but the DJI Mini 3 has a more compact design, making it easier to carry.
Q: Which drone has obstacle avoidance?
A: The DJI Mini 3 has a forward-facing obstacle avoidance system, while the Mini SE 2 does not.
Q: Which drone is more affordable?
A: The DJI Mini SE 2 is more affordable, starting at $299 compared to the Mini 3’s starting price of $499.
