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Originally Posted On: https://www.drdrone.ca/blogs/drone-news-drone-help-blog/drone-buying-guide

 

 

It is vital to keep in mind when purchasing a DJI drone that no two are alike. Because, after all, a novice pilot is going to have a very distinct set of priorities than a powerline or firefighter. DJI offers a really diverse range of consumer and commercial drones that deciding which one best suits your budget and requirements might be challenging. From the inexpensive DJI Mini 2 to the powerful DJI Matrice 300 RTK, each drone shines in its own way.

To help you choose the right drone for you, we’ll go over everything you need to know about these DJI drones.

DJI MINI 2

The DJI Mini 2 is the most advanced micro drone available. It weighs only 249 grammes, which is less than Transport Canada’s 250-gram weight limit. The DJI Mini 2 does not require a licence or registration to fly, making it an excellent first drone for new pilots. The fact that it’s little doesn’t make it any less spectacular than other DJI drones. With its powerful camera and intelligent features, the DJI Mini 2 makes it simple and fun to take professional-quality images and videos.

FLIGHT TIME AND RANGE

The DJI Mini 2 has a flying length of 31 minutes, giving you plenty of time to use one of the QuickShot modes to get the perfect selfie. It also offers a video transmission range of up to 10 kilometres owing to OcuSync 2.0, which sends HD video directly to your controller as you fly the drone from a specific place. In addition, the Mini 2 has a wind resistance of up to 37.8 km/hr, which is more than the Mavic Mini. This ensures that your drone is safe even when the weather gets windy.

CAMERA SENSOR AND RESOLUTION

The DJI Mini 2 is equipped with a 4K camera that can capture 12-megapixel images in JPG and DNG RAW formats.

It can also shoot 4K Ultra HD footage at speeds of up to 30 frames per second. Depending on the shooting resolution, the Mini 2 can potentially support up to 4x digital zoom, allowing you to create spectacular transitions from one photo to the next.

 

OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE

While the DJI Mini 2 lacks obstacle avoidance sensors, it does have certain sophisticated features that help it stay safe while flying. When you’re ready, Smart Return to Home can let you send the drone back to you right away. The drone’s automated takeoff and precise hovering make it simple to launch and fly without fear of colliding with anything.

INTELLIGENT FEATURES

The QuickShot modes on the Mini 2 are the most remarkable intelligent features, allowing you to produce professional-level clips that can be shared immediately on social media. The Mini 2 has settings including Rocket, which allows the drone to fly straight up while the camera is pointed straight down. This video catches a slow revelation of the environment around you, resulting in a fantastic video with movie-like effects. You can even use the more advanced Boomerang mode, in which the Mini 2 acts like a boomerang by flying away from you and then returning up close. Using the DJI Fly App, any of these films can be coupled with amazing soundtracks or filters.

 

COST

The DJI Mini 2 is a budget-friendly drone, and it’s one of DJI’s affordable models. With a starting price tag of $519, the DJI Mini 2 comes in two different packages from DJI. The Fly More Combo comes with a variety of accessories, including a propeller holder, two-way charging hub, and a shoulder bag for carrying the drone. If you’re looking for something simple to get started, this is an excellent option.

WHO SHOULD BUY THIS DRONE

For novices, DJI’s Mini 2 is an excellent choice. With the Mini 2, you don’t have to worry about learning complicated controls or spending a lot of money if you’ve never flown a drone before and aren’t sure what to anticipate. Unique clever features make it extremely user-friendly, allowing even the most unskilled pilots to take films as if they were a professional.

DJI MINI SE

The DJI Mini SE is a good update from the Mavic Mini and more of a budget alternative than the DJI Mini 2, with a powerful camera, improved wind resistance, and a communication system. If you’re looking to get your feet wet with DJI drones or are looking for an economical and enjoyable option, the Mini SE is a good choice. With a weight of only 249 grams, the DJI Mini SE is just within the Transport Canada weight limit of 250 grams which means that no licence or registration is required to fly this mini drone, making it ideal for first-time fliers looking to learn how to fly a drone.

FLIGHT TIME AND RANGE

The DJI Mini SE has a maximum flying time of 30 minutes on a fully charged battery, which means it can fly for as long as most other DJI consumer drones. It features an improved WiFi transmission mechanism that enables excellent video transmission up to a distance of 4 kilometres. The 2.4/5.8GHz Dual Frequency technology intelligently changes between the two frequencies to avoid interference, ensuring a consistent signal and a smooth flight experience. Interference and signal fading are a thing of the past thanks to DJI’s enhanced algorithms and protocols.

CAMERA SENSOR AND RESOLUTION

The DJI Mini SE features a similar camera gimbal unit as the original Mavic Mini supporting video resolution up to 2.7K and 12 megapixel photos in JPG format. DNG RAW is unfortunately not available on the Mini SE. The image sensor is the same 1/2.3″ one as the DJI Mini 2 and the camera is balanced by a 3-axis gimbal stabilizer. This ensures smooth video even with tricky conditions.

OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE

While the DJI Mini SE lacks obstacle avoidance sensors, it does include a number of capabilities that assist it in remaining safe while flying. When you’re ready, Smart Return to Home enables you to immediately return the drone to you. The autonomous takeoff and precise hovering capabilities of the drone make it easy to launch and fly without danger of colliding with anything.

INTELLIGENT FEATURES

QuickShots is a convenient function that the majority of DJI drone users are familiar with and enjoy. One of the best things you can do with a micro drone is fly about and take jaw-dropping selfies to impress your friends and family on social media. With QuickShot modes, the micro drone performs all of the complicated flying manoeuvres for you, allowing you to sit back and concentrate on delivering your finest camera posture.

 

COST

Starting at just $349, the DJI Mini SE provides incredbile value for money. The basic kit includes all the essentials to fly the drone. The fly more combo adds extra batteries and other useful accessories including a carrying case and a charging hub.

WHO SHOULD BUY THIS DRONE

The Mini SE is great for beginners looking for budget friendly options. The low cost provides an easy entry to the hobby. The Mini SE also proves useful as a low-cost flight training tool for organizations.

MAVIC 3

The DJI Mavic 3 is a revolutionary new drone that is equipped with two powerful cameras for shooting cinematic-quality footage with extreme precision. With the Hasselblad L2D-20c Camera’s natural colours and the telephoto camera’s 28x Hybrid Zoom technology, you’ll be able to record everything in stunning detail.

The DJI Mavic 3 includes a slew of new technologies that improve filming and flying stability, ranging from OcuSync3.0+ to ActiveTrack 5.0. Whether you choose the DJI Mavic 3 Fly More Combo or the DJI Mavic 3 Cine Premium Combo for additional storage and functionality, you’re sure to like the DJI Mavic 3’s twin camera system and ultra-precision positioning technology.

FLIGHT TIME AND RANGE

The longer the flight time, the more freedom you have to manoeuvre around in search of the perfect photo. Due to the Mavic 3’s extended flight time of 46 minutes, you can complete all aspects of your trip, from route planning to composition. The Mavic 3’s longer flight endurance is enabled by a more efficient propulsion system and a larger battery, and it also features a 50% higher wind resistance than the Mavic 2 to further boost flying safety.

The DJI Mavic 3 features a 15-kilometer communication range that ensures steady signals with little video latency. The Mavic 3 utilises the newly enhanced OcuSync 3.0+ transmission mechanism to provide a 15-kilometer range of low-latency video transmission.

CAMERA SENSOR AND RESOLUTION

The main focus of the Mavic 3 is absolute image quality in a small form factor. The Hasselblad L2D-20c Camera unit on the Mavic 3 is a dual camera system which includes a 20 MP main camera that has a 4/3 CMOS Sensor and an additional 1/2″ CMOS 12 megapixel telephoto zoom camera with up to 28x Hybrid Zoom.

 

With support for Apple ProRes (Cine Premium only) and up to 5.1K video recording at high bitrates, the Mavic 3 can shoot video like no other compact system on the market as of now. Thanks to the large 4/3 sensor, the camera has a wide dynamic range of 12.8 stops giving you excellent low light performance with minimal noise. The caemra supports aperture control and has Vision Detection Auto Focus (VDAF) that incorporates vision sensor data with camera image processing for high speed and precise auto focus .

Thanks to Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution, support for ProRes 422HQ (Cine Premium) and a 10-bit D-Log Colour Profile, the Mavic 3 is perfectly suited for professional grade videography.

OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE

The Mavic 3 has an omnidirectional obstacle avoidance system made up of multiple wide-angle vision sensors providing the drone, the ability to sense and avoid obstacles in complicated flight situations with relative ease in all directions. Powered by APAS 5.0, the Mavic 3 enables you to record uninterrupted by obstructions. It identifies and avoids objects in all directions while flying. Even in complex situations, you may relax and enjoy your flight without danger of unintentional touch, while simultaneously shooting smooth footage.

 

INTELLIGENT FEATURES

The Mavic 3 features the latest iteration of ActiveTrack at version 5.0. This version enables the Mavic 3 to follow the subject in any direction, forward, backward, or diagonally. You can even fly alongside and around the subject as it moves. If the subject moves too quickly and disappears from view for a brief while, the visual sensors continue tracking and framing the subject in order to re-capture it as soon as it reappears in view. The Mavic 3 also supports MasterShots which shoots video using 10 different advanced maneuvers while focusing on the subject chosen by the pilot yielding excellent results.

Mavic 3’s advanced RTH capability enables it to autonomously calculate the optimal route back to its home location and perform a safe return flight.

COST

The DJI Mavic 3 is available in a variety of configurations, depending on the accessories or functionality you require. You may either get the basic package for $2,669, which includes everything you need to capture great photos and films. The DJI Mavic 3 Fly More Combo is priced at $3,639 and includes a few additional accessories. The Fly More Combo includes three Intelligent Flight Batteries and two Low-Noise Propellers. The DJI Mavic Cine Combo is priced at $6,049 and includes all of the same features as the Fly More Combo, as well as an additional ND Filters Set, a 1TB SSD, and a 10Gbps Lightspeed Data Cable.

WHO SHOULD BUY THIS DRONE

The Mavic 3 is perfectly suited for professional and semi-professional work thanks to its high quality aerial imagery, be it videos or photos. The Mavic 3 is also suitable for hobby photographers and videographers who value high image quality and can make use of the numerous easy to use features the Mavic 3 provides to achieve excellent results.

DJI AIR 2S

The DJI Air 2S features the best balance of portability and image quality of any DJI drone. When it comes to performance, the DJI Air 2S is hard to beat, thanks to its impressive 12 km range and an abundance of useful functions. You can use it as a leisure tool or as a first or second-level tool because of its small size and simple operation. In addition, the remote controller has been modified for greater ergonomics and battery life.

FLIGHT TIME AND RANGE

A maximum flight time of 31 minutes and an astounding range of up to 12 kilometres make the DJI Air 2S one of the most powerful DJI drones. Because of the enhanced OcuSync 3.0 transmission system, the Air 2S is capable of transmitting video at 1080p with the smallest amount of lag possible. A Dual Frequency System with 4 Antennas (2.4/5.8 GHz) is also employed, which ensures that your video feed is always clear, crisp, and reliable, no matter what the weather conditions may be.

CAMERA SENSOR AND RESOLUTION

Even in low-light conditions, the DJI Air 2S’s improved 1-inch CMOS sensor captures high-definition images with natural colour tones. High-quality images and videos can be taken thanks to the camera’s ability to record at a high bitrate of 20MP and 5.4K. Photos and videos can also be enhanced with HDR, which merges several photographs taken at varying exposure settings to create an even more detailed image.

 

With a pixel size of 2.4m, the camera excels in low light conditions. As a result of the Hyperlapse mode, you can create short videos that look like they were taken from a movie. In addition, there are three additional Panorama modes: Wide-Angle, 180°, and Sphere, which widen the field of view.

OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE

The DJI Air 2S incorporates advanced obstacle detection in four directions: above, below, in front of, and behind the drone. Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems (APAS 4.0) power this, which employs sophisticated algorithms to detect and avoid obstacles in difficult and complicated scenarios at high speeds.

 

INTELLIGENT FEATURES

The Air 2S has several intelligent features that assist you in following subjects and creating cinematic videos. It has Dronie, Circle, Helix, Rocket, Boomerang, and Asteroid QuickShot modes. The DJI Air 2S also includes MasterShots, which allow you to perform 10 different cinematic aerial manoeuvres with the press of a button. Simply mark the subject on the screen and let the drone do the rest as it flies in a predetermined motion while shooting.

The FocusTrack feature has three modes that allow you to track, orbit, or follow your subject. Spotlight 2.0 keeps the subject in the centre of the frame while you fly the drone, and ActiveTrack 4.0 follows the subject even if obstacles get in the way. Point of Interest 3.0 follows a perfect circle of any radius and altitude you specify, always keeping the subject in the centre of the frame.

COST

The DJI Air 2S costs $1,249, which is slightly more than the DJI Mini 2. However, thanks to its powerful camera and impressive intelligent features, the drone more than justifies its high price.

WHO SHOULD BUY THIS DRONE

The DJI Air 2S is best suited for recreational use by novice or intermediate users. The intelligent features assist inexperienced pilots in safely flying the drone, while intermediate users can take advantage of some of the more advanced functions. The Air 2S is the drone for you if you want a drone with a lot of features and the ability to capture professional-level footage.

DJI FPV

With the DJI FPV, you can redefine how you fly a drone and shoot footage. Although FPV is commonly associated with FPV racing drones, the DJI FPV drone is not one of them. It’s designed to capture cinematic FPV video while flying at high speeds with RockSteady technology to keep footage smooth. Its upgraded OcuSync 3.0 video transmission system and a slew of safety features make it a well-priced FPV drone.

FLIGHT TIME AND RANGE

Instead of the 3-10 minutes of flying duration offered by standard first-person-view (FPV) drones, the DJI FPV provides up to 20 minutes of flight time. It also has a transmission range of up to 10 kilometres and an ultra-low latency of 28 milliseconds, owing to the OcuSync 3.0 system. For improved image quality, the video downlink has a high bandwidth of 50 Mbps. The video downlink also makes it possible to download video files from the drone considerably more quickly than previously possible with any other drone.

CAMERA RESOLUTION AND SENSOR TYPE

With a wide-angle camera capable of recording videos in up to 4K resolution at 60 frames per second, the DJI FPV is an excellent choice for aerial photography. It captures sharp and detailed wide-angle photos with a 150° field of view at a bitrate of up to 120 Mbps, thanks to its capability for up to 120 Mbps video bitrate. One feature that can truly assist you in capturing smooth footage is the Rocksteady Electronic Image Stabilization technology, which prevents your high-speed recordings from seeming choppy during sudden twists and turns or when executing manoeuvres.

OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE

 

The DJI FPV is equipped with forward and downward obstacle avoidance sensors, as well as a positional ToF sensor. Additionally, it offers an extra bottom light to assist in illuminating the landing zone. The DJI FPV includes safety features like as Smart Return to Home and Low Battery Return to Home, which return the drone to you if the battery becomes too low. Additionally, it employs an inbuilt ADS-B receiver to inform you when manned aircraft are in the area, allowing you to avoid them. Finally, the Emergency Brake and Hover features can be used with a single tap, bringing the aircraft to a complete halt in mid-flight.

INTELLIGENT FEATURES

Three separate flight modes are included with the DJI FPV: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. The N mode is ideal for novice users since it retains traditional flight controls while providing safety features. The S mode is more suited to intermediate users who wish to shoot sophisticated video while maintaining easy controls. Finally, the M mode enables experienced pilots to configure their own custom parameters and capture film precisely as they choose. This mode enables the drone to accelerate from 0 to 100 kilometres per hour in under 2.0 seconds.

COST

For $1,619, the DJI FPV Combo includes the drone, the DJI FPV Goggles V2, and the remote controller. Although this is one of the more expensive DJI drones, the unmatched FPV experience making it one of the best FPV drones available. Additionally, you may purchase the DJI Motion Controller, which enables you to fly the drone entirely with hand gestures. This results in a simple acceleration mechanism and ergonomically positioned buttons that enable one-handed operation of the drone.

WHO SHOULD BUY THIS DRONE?

If you’re a photographer or filmmaker interested in creating cinematic footage, the DJI FPV provides all you need. You can use the goggles to completely immerse yourself in the drone’s view. While the majority of FPV drones are designed for racing, the DJI FPV enables you to record fast-moving objects and shoot at breakneck rates. Whether you’re capturing a racer on a motorcycle or a sweeping aerial scene, the DJI FPV will deliver seamless, gorgeous footage.

MAVIC AIR 2

The DJI Mavic Air 2 is the world’s first compact drone to be equipped with a 48 MP camera, making it the first of its kind. The lightweight DJI Mavic Air 2 weighs only 570 grammes and has a flight time of up to 34 minutes, which is the longest flight time available for any Mavic model. The Mavic Air 2 is now equipped with OcuSync 2.0, which allows for a video transmission distance of up to 10 kilometres at 1080p/30 frames per second. Capture 4K/60fps HD video and take advantage of the camera’s user-friendly flight modes. With the all-new DJI Mavic Air 2, you can fly smarter, safer, and farther than you ever have before.

FLIGHT TIME AND RANGE

The Mavic Air 2 has a long video transmission range of up to 10 kilometres. The redesigned Remote Controller uses OcuSync 2.0 technology, which enables more stable transmission over longer distances. With the 2.4/5.8GHz Dual Frequency Auto-Switching, you can capture crystal clear videos without worrying about interference or signal loss. The Mavic Air 2’s extended battery life is one of its most impressive features, offering a maximum flight time of up to 34 minutes.

CAMERA RESOLUTION AND SENSOR TYPE

The Mavic Air 2 is equipped with an HDR-capable camera. Its camera captures 48 megapixel images using a 12″ Sony IMX586 image sensor, resulting in crisp images that can be enlarged without sacrificing quality. The camera captures 4K/60fps video, which ensures that your videos are of the highest quality. Additionally, it is capable of recording HDR video, which results in more natural colour transitions and sharper details in your video recordings.

OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE

The Mavic Air 2 is capable of sensing and avoiding obstacles in front, behind, and beneath the drone. Moreover, it features a downward-facing auxiliary light for improved visibility and a more precise vision sensor. Additionally, the Mavic Air 2 includes the Advanced Pilot Assist System 3.0, which utilises advanced mapping technologies. This system enables you to avoid obstacles more smoothly and reliably in even the most complex environments.

 

INTELLIGENT FEATURES

The Mavic Air 2 includes several intelligent flight modes that allow you to capture even more unique shots while flying the drone. The Spotlight 2.0 flight mode allows you to lock the camera on a subject while the drone is flying around freely. All you need to do is choose a subject and let your drone fly! ActiveTrack 3.0 will improve the smoothness and speed with which subjects can be tracked autonomously, keeping them in the centre of the frame even when they are obscured. With the Point of Interest 3.0 feature, you can draw a perfect circle around your subject. The drone maintains the camera facing the subject and adjusts the camera angle to keep the subject in the frame throughout the shot in this mode.

COST

The Mavic Air 2 falls between the Mini 2 and Air 2S in terms of price and provides a great feature set for a beginner or intermediate user who can benefit from the improved camera parameter control, image quality and mainly, ActiveTrack. Compact design and superior flight make it a great purchase starting at $999 for the standalone and $1239 for the fly more combo. There is also a version available with the DJI Smart Controller included for a hassle free flight performance at $1749.

DJI MATRICE 30 SERIES

The DJI Matrice 30 series is a compact platform that merges the features of the Matrice 300 RTK and the Zenmuse H20 Series. The new M30 and M30T platforms are just as powerful, compact, and foldable as the Mavic 2 Enterprise series drones, allowing you to take them on missions in remote locations.

FLIGHT TIME AND RANGE

The M30T has improved flight performance capabilities, resulting in a smoother flight than ever before. The enterprise drone has a flight time of up to 41 minutes and a top speed of 82.8 kilometres per hour. This increases your flight time and range, giving you more options in your mission. It can withstand winds of up to 54 km/h and has an IP55 dust and water resistance rating, ensuring its protection from the elements regardless of the weather.

The Matrice 30 series is suitable for applications ranging from public safety to infrastructure inspections, with an operating temperature range of -20° C to 50° C and a maximum service ceiling of 7000m above sea level.

CAMERA RESOLUTION AND SENSOR TYPE

The Matrice 30T includes multi-sensor camera units with high-resolution wide-angle and zoom cameras, as well as a laser rangefinder, to provide you with high-quality video in low-light situations. The M30T takes things a step further by including a thermal imaging sensor, which is useful for public-safety missions. These two DJI enterprise drones are among the most capable commercial drones available.

OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE

To improve flight safety, the M30T series includes 360-degree obstacle avoidance. On all six sides of the drone are dual-vision and ToF sensors, giving you a combination of visual and infrared sensors capable of detecting obstacles up to 38 metres away. In addition to these sensors, the M30 series’ Redundant Dual IMU, Compass, GNSS, and Intelligent Flight Batteries all work together to keep the M30 series safe in any situation.

INTELLIGENT FEATURES

The M30 unites two other significant advancements to the DJI Enterprise environment. The first would be DJI Dock, a fully automated docking system that encloses and recharges the M30, allowing for around-the-clock remote asset inspections. All of the performance and safety specifications for the M30 Dock Version are the same as for the standard model. The second is DJI’s professional fleet management solution, FlightHub 2. The M30 is expected to be a valuable tool for public safety and inspection crews. Easy integration with FlightHub 2’s coordination and synchronisation capabilities, which enable you to manage ground teams, drones, payloads, pilots, and all of the valuable data they collect, is a big part of that.

WHO SHOULD BUY THIS DRONE?

The Matrice 30 series can provide you with more capabilities than ever before, whether you’re a firefighter using the M30T to find hotspots in a building or an inspector using the DJI Dock to perform autonomous missions in remote locations. Law enforcement can use the DJI M30T’s Intelligent Battery Charging Station to maintain round-the-clock surveillance, while search and rescue personnel can use the DJI M30T’s capabilities to find missing persons lost in foliage.

The new RC Plus remote controller’s ergonomic design makes it simple to develop muscle memory and navigate controls quickly and seamlessly. Consider purchasing one of the powerful DJI drones in the new Matrice 30 series if you’re looking for an enterprise drone worth the money.

DJI MATRICE 300 RTK

To date, DJI’s most advanced commercial drone is the Matrice 300 RTK. The DJI Matrice 300 RTK can fly farther and longer than any other Matrice system, with a transmission range of 15 kilometres and a maximum flight time of 55 minutes. You can rely on the DJI Matrice 300 RTK’s efficiency and safety as an inspector, surveyor, or first responder.

FLIGHT TIME AND RANGE

The DJI M300 RTK has an extraordinary 55 minutes of flight time, nearly double that of most DJI consumer drones. It is capable of flying at speeds of up to 82.8 km/h and resisting winds of up to 54 km/h. Additionally, it has a video transmission range of up to 15 kilometres, which enables you to fly the drone wherever you need to without relocating. This is critical for law enforcement officers and firefighters who require a drone that will complete the mission without endangering lives.

CAMERA RESOLUTION AND SENSOR TYPE

DJI Matrice 300 RTK is compatible with Zenmuse H20 series payloads, as well as Zenmuse P1 and L1 payloads. When combined with a Zenmuse H20 series payload, the Matrice 300 unlocks the AI-powered core’s potential for enhanced automated operations, saving you time and money.

OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE

The DJI M300 RTK has an Omni-directional obstacle avoidance and positioning system that helps you fly with unparalleled safety. The sensing system positions the drone so that you can fly between and underneath objects. The dual-vision and ToF sensors can detect obstacles up to 40m away, giving you plenty of time to maneuver the aircraft. This drone is also rated IP45 for ingress protection, making it dust and water-resistant. This allows you to fly it in all weather conditions.

INTELLIGENT FEATURES

The DJI M300 RTK features extensive system and sensor redundancy, ensuring the drone’s safety and reliability. Due to the dual inertial measurement units, a backup IMU will activate within 200 milliseconds if one fails. Additionally, it includes a redesigned Primary Flight Display that consolidates flight, navigation, and obstacle information in a single location. This shows the aircraft’s heading, flight path, wind speed and direction, and the proximity of any obstacles.

This drone’s advanced propulsion system and flight control algorithms enable it to maintain its position and flight path. Additionally, it supports multiple payload configurations, enabling it to be paired with up to three payloads simultaneously. A single downward gimbal, a dual downward gimbal, a single upward and single downward gimbal, or a single upward and dual downward gimbal are all of the different payload configurations possible with the M300.

ZENMUSE H20 SERIES

The DJI M300 RTK is capable of a wide variety of commercial applications, depending on the payload it is paired with. The Zenmuse P1 and L1 are ideal for mapping and surveying, while the Zenmuse H20 Series is well-suited for inspections and search and rescue operations. Any first responder can utilise the DJI M300 RTK to complete their mission efficiently and safely.

CAMERA RESOLUTION AND SENSOR TYPE

The Zenmuse H20 is a triple-sensor solution that includes a zoom camera with a resolution of 20 MP, a wide-angle camera with a resolution of 12 MP, and a laser rangefinder with a range of 1200 metres. The zoom camera features a 23x hybrid optical zoom and a 1/1.7″ CMOS sensor capable of 4K video capture at 30 frames per second. The wide camera features a 24mm focal length and a 1/2.3″ CMOS sensor with an 82.9° DFOV, providing an incredible field of view.

RADIOMETRIC THERMAL IMAGING

The H20T-quad-sensor solution includes an additional radiometric thermal camera with a resolution of 640 x 512 pixels, which can be used to view temperatures in real time. By tapping a point on the object, you can monitor the temperatures, taking precise readings in real time and displaying them on the screen. You can also choose a specific area to see the lowest, highest, and average temperatures that are within that range.

INTELLIGENT FEATURES

The Zenmuse H20T has several intelligent features that help you measure temperatures. Isotherms help you visualize a specific band of temperatures, while you can use the color palettes to adjust the colors applied to the thermal data based on the needs of your specific scenario. You can also adjust gain modes to capture both small and wide temperature ranges based on how sensitive you want it to be to temperature differences. You can even set a temp alarm to be notified in the event that object temperatures exceed your preset alert values.

 

The Zenmuse H20T is equipped with an artificial intelligence feature that automates inspections, allowing you to save both time and money. This enables you to pre-mark targets, with the camera returning automatically to take a photo at the same angle, zoom level, heading, and location each time you use it. The Smart Track feature will quickly identify and mark moving objects, while the Pin Point feature will mark an object’s coordinates as an augmented reality icon, which will then be streamed to another remote controller or to FlightHub for further analysis and analysis.

WHO SHOULD BUY THIS PAYLOAD?

These payloads are best suited for inspections or search and rescue missions, as the powerful camera and intelligent features allow you to save time, money, and even lives while performing these tasks. The thermal camera on the H20T can assist firefighters in detecting hotspots while also assisting people on search and rescue missions by allowing them to detect lost or missing persons in remote areas.

ZENMUSE L1

The Zenmuse L1 payload for the Matrice 300 combines a LiDAR module, a high-precision IMU, and a 20-megapixel 1-inch sensor-powered visual camera mounted on a three-axis gimbal. This is DJI’s first-ever LiDAR payload, which combines the camera’s visual images with LiDAR data to create true colour point clouds and models. The Zenmuse L1 can be used in conjunction with the Matrice 300 and the DJI Terra desktop software, fusing data from the onboard IMU, the drone’s GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System – GPS and RTK), and visible light. This enables the generation of extremely accurate reconstructed models and reports for a variety of missions.

LIDAR SENSOR

The Zenmuse L1 is equipped with a Livox Mid70 LiDAR Sensor, which is capable of producing point clouds that are up to 100 percent effective. It has a detection range of 450m (at 80% reflectivity and 0 klx) or 190m (at 80% reflectivity and 0 klx) (at 10 percent reflectivity and 100 klx). Additionally, the sensor supports three return channels, allowing for the measurement of Digital Elevation Models (DEMs), Digital Surface Models (DSMs), and vegetation height. Additionally, the onboard IMU is extremely accurate, providing rendered data with centimeter-level precision.

INTEGRATED RGB CAMERA

Similar to the Phantom 4 RTK, the RGB visual camera features a 20-megapixel 1-inch CMOS sensor, mechanical and global shutters, and an adjustable aperture.

This RGB camera augments the LiDAR module with real-time colour rendering data, providing true colour for your point clouds and reality models.

Additionally, it enables you to use the Zenmuse L1 for basic photo and video recording functions. An auxiliary vision sensor provides continuous orientation data and vision-based positioning in the event of GNSS failure, allowing for the maintenance of altitude data.

 

INTELLIGENT FEATURES

The Zenmuse L1’s most impressive feature is its ability to generate true-color point cloud models in real time. These provide instant on-site insights, allowing you to make strategic decisions mid-flight. Additionally, you can test the point cloud details immediately following each flight to ensure the quality of the fieldwork. Once a model is generated, it can be rotated, zoomed in and out, and scrolled using the DJI Pilot app’s DJI Smart Controller Enterprise screen. Additionally, you can toggle between live view and point cloud display or view both in a split-screen mode.

A further outstanding feature of the Zenmuse L1 is its ability to acquire and interact with critical parameters via measurements and annotations on the cloud point model. DJI Terra will calculate POS data and fuse IMU and GNSS data for you, allowing you to quickly create reconstructed models and accuracy reports. This simplifies post-processing.

WHO SHOULD BUY THIS PAYLOAD?

The Zenmuse L1 is suitable for a wide variety of tasks. The L1 can be used by those involved in topographic mapping, architecture, engineering, or construction surveying to create maps and three-dimensional models of their projects. Anyone involved in energy, infrastructure, agriculture, or forestry management can also use these tools to obtain the necessary details and insights. Finally, law enforcement and emergency responders can leverage the real-time point cloud view to gain critical insights and enhanced situational awareness to ensure the safety of their personnel.

ZENMUSE P1

The Zenmuse P1 is designed for photogrammetry and mapping and is only compatible with the M300. It is DJI’s largest image sensor to date with the highest resolution, providing unprecedented accuracy without the use of ground control points. Additionally, it is extremely efficient, allowing you to cover a larger area in a single flight. The Zenmuse P1 is distinguished by its versatility, as it is capable of producing both 2D and 3D models and maps.

FULL FRAME SENSOR

The Zenmuse P1 features a full-frame image sensor, which is larger than the ones found on the Phantom 4 RTK and Zenmuse X7. It has the highest dynamic range and resolution of any DJI camera currently available. It features a variety of fixed-focus lens options, including the DJI DL 24/35/50mm lenses. Additionally, it includes a Global Mechanical Shutter with a 1/2000-second shutter speed.

With this 45 MP full-frame sensor, you can capture data at as little as 0.7s intervals. Additionally, it supports OcuSync 2.0’s 4m Pixel Size and microsecond level data alignment. With the Zenmuse P1, you can cover an incredible 3 square kilometres in just one flight.

SMART OBLIQUE CAPTURE AND DATA MANAGEMENT

The Smart Oblique Capture feature automatically rotates the gimbal to take photos from various angles, increasing the efficiency of your mission. This feature enables the Zenmuse P1 to cover 7.5 square kilometres in a single workday with a GSD of 3 cm and an overlap of 80 percent for front and 60 percent for side. Additionally, it takes only the photos necessary for reconstruction at the flight area’s edge, which streamlines post-processing.

 

The Zenmuse P1 consolidates all captured data, making it simple to access the information you need during post-processing. Additionally, you can generate a Fieldwork Report in the DJI Pilot App to verify the data’s quality immediately following the flight and before departing the area. This report will summarise the number of images required, the RTK status, and the flight’s positioning accuracy.

The Zenmuse P1 can carry out a variety of missions with this payload. You can create two-dimensional orthomosaics without using ground control points (GCPs). Additionally, you can gather oblique images to create 3D models, which are ideal for urban design and smart city planning. When performing comprehensive reconstructions or geological surveys, you can safely obtain ultra-high-resolution image data of vertical or slanted surfaces. Finally, you can use DJI Terra to conduct real-time mapping missions.

WHO SHOULD BUY THIS PAYLOAD?

Anyone who needs to generate 3D reality models for topographic mapping or cadastral surveying can use the Zenmuse P1. Architects, engineers, and construction surveyors can conduct surveillance using the P1’s 2D and 3D data. Additionally, the Zenmuse P1 is ideal for natural resource management, geological investigation, and modelling disaster sites.

MAVIC 2 ENTERPRISE ADVANCED

Similar to the Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual, the Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced has a combined thermal and visual camera. This drone is easy to transport and store due to its compact, foldable design. The dual thermal and visual imaging capabilities enable you to collect all the data necessary for your mission from a safe distance. With a lower price tag than the Matrice 300, the M2EA is a more affordable option that can assist you in getting the job done correctly.

FLIGHT TIME AND RANGE

The DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced has a maximum flight time of 31 minutes and a range of 10 kilometres with Full HD video transmission, which provides you with sufficient time and flexibility to complete your mission in one go.

CAMERA RESOLUTION AND SENSOR TYPE

The Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced features a 48-megapixel visual camera with lossless zoom up to 4x and digital zoom up to 32x. It is equipped with a 1/2-inch CMOS sensor that captures crisp, detailed images of critical assets. Besides that, it includes a thermal imaging unit with a resolution of 640 x 512 pixels that supports up to 16x digital zoom and a refresh rate of 30 Hz. This system features a 2°C temperature measurement accuracy and can be used for a variety of applications, including inspections and firefighting.

One of the Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced’s best features is the dual vision function, which enables you to quickly and seamlessly switch between thermal and visual live feeds. Additionally, you can create split-screen feeds to view both types of data concurrently, depending on the requirements of your mission.

 

OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE

The Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced comes equipped with Omnidirectional obstacle sensing, which enables you to fly it in tight spaces without worrying about the drone’s safety. Additionally, there is a modular RTK accessory that enables the drone to acquire positioning data with centimeter-level accuracy via an NTRIP network. This feature supports up to 240 waypoints per mission, allowing you to create a mission that is tailored to your specific requirements.

ACCESSORIES

The Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced comes standard with a variety of modular attachments that enable you to carry out a range of different missions. The M2E spotlight improves vision in low-light conditions, which is ideal for emergency responders tasked with directing lost persons to safety at night. The M2E speaker is ideal for communicating with ground teams and stranded individuals. Additionally, you can use it to store multiple voice recordings that can be played at any time. Finally, the M2E beacon can be used to extend the VLOS range and assist you in maintaining visual contact with the Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced while it is in flight at night.

COST

At $7,999, the Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced is one of the more affordable DJI commercial drones. This is an excellent substitute for the DJI Matrice 300 RTK if you’re looking for something a little less expensive but still capable of performing the functions you require.

WHO SHOULD BUY THIS DRONE?

The Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced is equipped with a plethora of features. Powerline inspectors, firefighters, search and rescue teams, and law enforcement agencies can all rely on its dual vision camera to safely and reliably carry out their missions. The M2EA and its modular attachments can also be used for environmental and wildlife protection.

PHANTOM 4 RTK

DJI’s Phantom 4 RTK is a dedicated mapping and surveying platform with centimeter-level accuracy and TimeSync. It is the most affordable high-precision mapping drone on the market that is RTK-based. The 1-inch, 20-megapixel camera features a mechanical shutter that optimises image quality and eliminates rolling shutter distortion. If you’re looking for a drone to use for mapping or other precise survey work, the Phantom 4 RTK is your best bet.

FLIGHT TIME AND RANGE

With a maximum flight time of 30 minutes and a range of 7 kilometres, the Phantom 4 RTK provides enough time and flexibility to complete your mapping or surveying mission in one go.

CAMERA RESOLUTION AND SENSOR TYPE

The Phantom 4 RTK’s 1-inch, 20-megapixel CMOS sensor enables the capture of high-quality image data. Additionally, it features a mechanical shutter that enables you to maneuver the drone without worrying about rolling shutter blur. At 100m flight altitude, the high-resolution camera enables you to achieve a Ground Sample Distance (GSD) of 2.74 cm.

 

One notable feature of the Phantom 4 RTK camera is that each lens undergoes a rigorous calibration process that measures tangential and radial lens distortions. They then collect the distortion parameters and store them in the image’s metadata, which simplifies post-processing.

OBSTACLE AVOIDANCE

The Phantom 4 RTK is equipped with vision-based obstacle avoidance sensors in the front and back, as well as ToF sensors on either side, to assist you in avoiding collisions during flight. While this is not as advanced as the Omnidirectional obstacle avoidance found on some other DJI drones, it can still assist you in keeping the drone safe while performing a mapping mission.

 

INTELLIGENT FEATURES

One of the best features of the Phantom 4 RTK is the centimeter-level positioning system, which provides improved absolute accuracy for image metadata. Additionally, this RTK module incorporates a redundant GNSS module beneath it to ensure flight stability in the event of signal loss. The new TimeSync system will constantly synchronise the flight controller, RTK module, and camera to ensure that each photo contains the most accurate metadata possible.

Additionally, it fixes the positioning data to the CMOS sensor’s centre, which optimises photogrammetric results. The GS RTK app enables intelligent control of the Phantom 4 RTK through the use of two distinct planning modes: Waypoint and Photogrammetry. These allow you to customise the drone’s flight path by adjusting the overlap rate, speed, altitude, and camera parameters, among other things. This streamlines the inspection or mapping process, saving you time and money.

COST

The Phantom 4 RTK is priced at $7,975, but a Phantom 4 RTK + DRTK2 Mobile Station Combo is available for $11,599. The Combo includes the D-RTK 2 Mobile Station, which works in conjunction with OcuSync 2.0 to provide real-time differential data for forming an accurate surveying solution. This provides accurate data down to the centimetre in even the most extreme environmental conditions.

WHO SHOULD BUY THIS DRONE

The Phantom 4 RTK is ideal for mapping missions, so anyone conducting an inspection or survey with this DJI drone will get exactly what they need. This includes industries such as construction, mining, and any other that requires precise survey work. If you’re looking for a commercial drone that will be used exclusively for mapping and surveying, you can save a lot of money by opting for the Phantom 4 RTK over a more expensive drone.

NOTABLE MENTIONS

DJI INSPIRE 2

The DJI Inspire 2 is a professional aerial video and photo cinematography drone from DJI. With the Zenmuse X7 camera, the Inspire 2 can record up to 6K in Cinema DNG/RAW or 5.2K in AppleProRes for $9,959.

It has two obstacle avoidance directions as well as an onboard FPV camera to give you more control over your flight. TapFly, ActiveTrack, and QuickSpin flight modes are also available on the Inspire 2 to help you shoot even more difficult shots.

 

PHANTOM 4 MULTISPECTRAL

The Phantom 4 Multispectral is ideal for agricultural applications as well as environmental surveillance and inspection. Agriculture professionals may benefit from multispectral imagery to help them grow more precisely because it provides data that they would not otherwise have access to.

This information can be extremely beneficial in assisting them in making the best decisions for lowering prices, ensuring crop health, and maximising yields while conserving resources.

MAVIC 2

The Mavic 2 Series includes the Mavic 2 Zoom and the Mavic 2 Pro, both of which have longer ranges, longer flight times, and better wind resistance than ever before. The Hasselblad camera and 1-inch sensor on the Mavic 2 Pro provide high-quality aerial imaging.

The Mavic 2 Zoom features 2x optical zoom, a first for a drone of this size. It also has a Dolly Zoom mode that allows you to create Hitchcock-style dramatic shots with the press of a few buttons.

 

PHANTOM 4 PRO V 2.0

The DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 features a classic design and an excellent camera with a 20-megapixel 1-inch CMOS sensor. It also has a mechanical shutter, which eliminates the rolling shutter effect when moving and allows you to capture fast-moving objects.

In addition to being more wind resistant than previous DJI Phantom drones, the DJI Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 is the first to fly with a 1-inch CMOS sensor.

The first step in deciding on a drone is determining your budget. The DJI Mini 2 is an excellent starter drone if you’re looking for something more affordable for recreational purposes. Another low-cost commercial drone, the Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced, can help you conduct inspections without spending tens of thousands of dollars. When it comes to commercial drones, there is no better option than an RTK-enabled Matrice 300 RTK.

Once you’ve determined your budget, you can narrow down your options by asking yourself what you intend to use the drone for. Do you want to perform inspections, make cinematic videos, or simply take some cool drone selfies with your friends? Do you want something with a powerful camera, or something that can provide both thermal and visual effects? Whatever your requirements are, there is a DJI drone that can assist you! Take a look at the options above to see which one appeals to you the most.