What To Know
- The world of aerial photography has been revolutionized by the advent of drones, and two of the most popular models in the market today are the DJI Phantom 3 and the Mavic Air.
- The Phantom 3 has a maximum flight speed of 39mph and a maximum flight time of 25 minutes, while the Mavic Air has a maximum flight speed of 43mph and a maximum flight time of 21 minutes.
- The Mavic Air has a few additional intelligent features that the Phantom 3 does not, such as ActiveTrack (which allows you to track a moving subject) and SmartCapture (which allows you to control the drone with hand gestures).
The world of aerial photography has been revolutionized by the advent of drones, and two of the most popular models in the market today are the DJI Phantom 3 and the Mavic Air. Both drones offer a wide range of features, but which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key differences between the DJI Phantom 3 and the Mavic Air to help you make an informed decision.
Camera Quality
The camera is one of the most important components of a drone, and both the Phantom 3 and the Mavic Air offer impressive imaging capabilities. The Phantom 3 features a 12-megapixel camera with a 1/2.3-inch sensor, while the Mavic Air has a 12-megapixel camera with a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor. Both cameras can capture stunning aerial photos and videos, but the Mavic Air has a slight edge in terms of image quality, especially in low-light conditions.
Video Capabilities
In addition to stills, both the Phantom 3 and the Mavic Air can capture high-quality videos. The Phantom 3 can record 4K videos at 30fps and 2.7K videos at 60fps, while the Mavic Air can record 4K videos at 30fps and 1080p videos at 120fps. The Mavic Air also has a higher bitrate (100Mbps) than the Phantom 3 (60Mbps), which results in smoother and more detailed videos.
Flight Performance
The flight performance of a drone is another important factor to consider. The Phantom 3 has a maximum flight speed of 39mph and a maximum flight time of 25 minutes, while the Mavic Air has a maximum flight speed of 43mph and a maximum flight time of 21 minutes. The Mavic Air also has a superior wind resistance rating (29-38mph) compared to the Phantom 3 (22-28mph).
Portability and Convenience
One of the biggest advantages of the Mavic Air over the Phantom 3 is its portability and convenience. The Mavic Air is significantly smaller and lighter than the Phantom 3, making it much easier to transport and store. The Mavic Air also comes with a carrying case that makes it easy to take on the go.
Intelligent Features
Both the Phantom 3 and the Mavic Air are equipped with a range of intelligent features that make them easy to fly and use. These features include obstacle avoidance, automatic takeoff and landing, and follow-me mode. The Mavic Air has a few additional intelligent features that the Phantom 3 does not, such as ActiveTrack (which allows you to track a moving subject) and SmartCapture (which allows you to control the drone with hand gestures).
Price
The DJI Phantom 3 is available for around $500-$700, while the Mavic Air is available for around $800-$1000. The Mavic Air is more expensive than the Phantom 3, but it offers a number of advantages, including a better camera, better video capabilities, and improved portability.
Which Drone is Right for You?
Ultimately, the best drone for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a drone that is affordable, easy to fly, and offers good image quality, the DJI Phantom 3 is a great option. If you’re looking for a drone that is more portable, offers better image and video quality, and has more intelligent features, the Mavic Air is a better choice.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
1. Which drone has a better camera?
The Mavic Air has a better camera than the Phantom 3, especially in low-light conditions.
2. Which drone has better video capabilities?
The Mavic Air has better video capabilities than the Phantom 3, including the ability to record 4K videos at 30fps and 1080p videos at 120fps.
3. Which drone is more portable?
The Mavic Air is more portable than the Phantom 3, making it easier to transport and store.
4. Which drone has more intelligent features?
The Mavic Air has more intelligent features than the Phantom 3, including ActiveTrack and SmartCapture.
5. Which drone is more expensive?
The Mavic Air is more expensive than the Phantom 3.
