What To Know
- The realm of aerial photography and videography has witnessed a surge in popularity, and the DJI Mini and SE drones have emerged as formidable contenders in this domain.
- The DJI Mini boasts a 12-megapixel camera capable of capturing stunning stills and videos with a resolution of 4K at 30 frames per second.
- The DJI Mini outperforms the SE in terms of flight time, offering an impressive 30 minutes of airtime on a single charge.
The realm of aerial photography and videography has witnessed a surge in popularity, and the DJI Mini and SE drones have emerged as formidable contenders in this domain. Both these drones offer compelling features and capabilities, but which one is the perfect fit for your specific needs? In this comprehensive blog post, we will delve into a detailed comparison of the DJI Mini vs SE, analyzing their key differences and guiding you towards making an informed decision.
Camera Performance
Resolution and Image Quality
The DJI Mini boasts a 12-megapixel camera capable of capturing stunning stills and videos with a resolution of 4K at 30 frames per second. The SE, on the other hand, offers an 8-megapixel camera with a maximum video resolution of 2.7K at 30 frames per second. While the Mini offers higher pixel count and resolution, the SE compensates with improved low-light performance.
Field of View and Lens
Both the Mini and SE feature a wide-angle lens with a field of view of 83 degrees. This allows for capturing expansive aerial shots and panoramas. However, the Mini’s lens offers a slightly wider aperture of f/2.8 compared to the SE’s f/2.6, resulting in enhanced low-light performance.
Flight Performance
Flight Time and Range
The DJI Mini outperforms the SE in terms of flight time, offering an impressive 30 minutes of airtime on a single charge. The SE, on the other hand, provides a flight time of 25 minutes. Regarding range, both drones have a maximum transmission distance of 4 kilometers (2.5 miles), allowing for ample exploration.
Wind Resistance and Stability
The Mini’s compact and lightweight design makes it more susceptible to wind gusts compared to the slightly heavier SE. However, both drones feature advanced stabilization systems that ensure smooth and stable footage even in challenging conditions.
Portability and Convenience
Size and Weight
The DJI Mini lives up to its name, weighing a mere 249 grams and folding into a compact size that easily fits into the palm of your hand. The SE, while still portable, is slightly larger and heavier at 360 grams.
Carrying Case and Accessories
Both drones come with a dedicated carrying case for easy transportation. Additionally, the Mini offers a range of accessories, including ND filters and propeller guards, to enhance its functionality.
Features and Functionality
Intelligent Flight Modes
The DJI Mini and SE feature a variety of intelligent flight modes that streamline aerial photography and videography. These include QuickShots, which allow for automated cinematic shots, and ActiveTrack, which automatically tracks and follows subjects.
Gesture Control and Hyperlapse
The SE introduces gesture control, enabling you to take photos and videos using hand gestures. Both drones support Hyperlapse mode, which creates time-lapse videos by automatically capturing still images at regular intervals.
Summary of Key Differences
| Feature | DJI Mini | DJI SE |
| — | — | — |
| Camera Resolution | 12 megapixels | 8 megapixels |
| Video Resolution | 4K at 30 fps | 2.7K at 30 fps |
| Flight Time | 30 minutes | 25 minutes |
| Weight | 249 grams | 360 grams |
| Portability | Highly portable | Portable |
| Intelligent Flight Modes | QuickShots, ActiveTrack | QuickShots, ActiveTrack, Gesture Control |
Which Drone is Right for You?
Choosing between the DJI Mini and SE depends on your specific requirements. If you prioritize image quality, flight time, and portability, the Mini is the ideal choice. The SE, on the other hand, offers a more affordable option with improved low-light performance and gesture control.
In-Depth Comparison: A Deeper Dive
Camera:
- Resolution: The Mini’s 12-megapixel camera captures higher-resolution images and videos compared to the SE’s 8-megapixel camera.
- Low-light performance: The SE’s larger pixels and wider aperture provide better low-light performance than the Mini.
Flight Performance:
- Flight time: The Mini’s lighter weight and more efficient motors enable a longer flight time of 30 minutes.
- Wind resistance: The SE’s heavier weight and larger size make it more stable in windy conditions.
Portability:
- Size and weight: The Mini’s compact size and lightweight make it highly portable and easy to carry.
- Carrying case: Both drones come with dedicated carrying cases for convenient transportation.
Features:
- Intelligent flight modes: The SE introduces gesture control, while both drones offer QuickShots and ActiveTrack.
- Hyperlapse mode: Both drones support Hyperlapse mode for creating time-lapse videos.
Wrap-Up: The Perfect Aerial Companion
Whether you’re an aspiring aerial photographer or a seasoned videographer, the DJI Mini and SE offer exceptional capabilities for capturing stunning aerial footage. The Mini excels in image quality, flight time, and portability, while the SE provides a more affordable option with improved low-light performance and gesture control. By carefully considering the key differences outlined in this comprehensive comparison, you can make an informed decision and choose the drone that perfectly aligns with your needs and aspirations.
Questions You May Have
Q1. Which drone has a better camera?
A1. The DJI Mini offers a 12-megapixel camera with higher resolution and image quality compared to the SE’s 8-megapixel camera.
Q2. Which drone has a longer flight time?
A2. The DJI Mini has a longer flight time of 30 minutes, while the SE offers 25 minutes of airtime.
Q3. Which drone is more portable?
A3. The DJI Mini is more portable due to its compact size and lighter weight.
Q4. Which drone has more intelligent flight modes?
A4. Both drones offer intelligent flight modes, including QuickShots and ActiveTrack. The SE additionally features gesture control.
Q5. Which drone is more affordable?
A5. The DJI SE is more affordable than the Mini.
