DJI Mini 2 Vs Mini 3 – Check Which One Is Best & Why?
Both drones are part of DJI and share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as image quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the DJI Mini 3 rather than Mini 2.
Why Do I Recommend DJI Mini 3?
- Mini 3 Can record 4k Video at 60fps which makes sure you get smooth professional videos, perfect slow motion, also it can capture fast-moving subjects or dynamic scenes. whereas Mini 2 can record 4k at 30fps.
- Mini 3 includes forward and downward vision sensors that enhance safety by reducing the risk of collisions, & making it more reliable for novice pilots to fly in complex environments.
- The Mini 3 offers Level 5 wind resistance compared to Mini 2’s Level 4, which ensures more stable flights in windy conditions, allowing for clearer footage and more control in adverse weather.
- Mini 3 uses the advanced OcuSync 3.0 transmission system to offer you a more reliable & longer-range Connection for high-quality live video. Mini 2 uses OcuSync 2.0 transmission system.
- The ISO range of Mini 3 is 100-6400 in manual mode for videos, which makes sure you get better performance under low light conditions like mornings or late evenings, The Mini 2 ISO range is 100-3200.
- Mini 3 offers up to 38 minutes of flight time while Mini 2 provides up to 31 minutes, which is especially useful during extended outdoor adventures.
- Mini 3 supports HDR video Mode, which enhances video quality in high contrast & dark areas. Mini 2 does not support HDR video mode
Maybe the DJI Mini 2 price can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the Mini 3. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.
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Side By Side Comparison
Feature | DJI Mini 3 | DJI Mini 2 |
Camera | 12 MP, 4K/60fps video | 12 MP, 4K/30fps video |
Sensor | 1/1.3” CMOS | 1/2.3” CMOS |
Aperture | f/1.7 | f/2.8 |
Flight Time | Up to 38 minutes | Up to 31 minutes |
Transmission System | OcuSync 3.0 | OcuSync 2.0 |
Max Control Range | 12 km (7.5 miles) | 10 km (6.2 miles) |
Zoom | Up to 4x digital zoom | No zoom capability |
HDR Support | Yes | No |
Wind Resistance | Up to 10.7 m/s (Level 5) | Up to 8.5-10.5 m/s (Level 5) |
Obstacle Sensing | Downward, forward, and backward | Downward |
ISO Range (Video) | 100-6400 | 100-3200 |
ISO Range (Photo) | 100-6400 | 100-3200 |
Shutter Speed | 2s – 1/8000s | 4s – 1/8000s |
Max Bitrate | 150 Mbps | 100 Mbps |
Storage | microSD up to 512 GB | microSD up to 256 GB |
Intelligent Flight Modes | QuickShots, MasterShots, FocusTrack, Panorama | QuickShots, Panorama, Enhanced Photo |
Portability | Foldable design with slightly larger dimensions | Foldable design |
Timelapse | Yes, with improved options | Yes |
Panorama Modes | Sphere, 180°, Wide, Vertical | Sphere, 180°, Wide |
Battery Capacity | 2453 mAh | 2250 mAh |
Dimensions (folded) | 145×90×62 mm | 138×81×58 mm |
Dimensions (unfolded) | 171×245×62 mm | 159×203×56 mm |
Price | Check Mini 3 Price | Check Mini 2 Price |
What Common Both Can Do?
The DJI Mini 2 and DJI Mini 3 share several core capabilities that are characteristic of DJI’s Mini series of drones. These common features ensure that both models are suitable for a range of drone enthusiasts, from hobbyists to more serious aerial photographers who need a portable and capable drone. Here’s a rundown of what both drones can do:
- 4K Video Recording: Both models are capable of shooting 4K video, which ensures high-resolution footage suitable for various professional and recreational purposes.
- Compact and Portable: Both drones weigh less than 250 grams, making them extremely portable and exempt from registration requirements in many countries. This makes them ideal for travel and spontaneous aerial photography.
- 3-Axis Gimbal Stabilization: Each drone includes a 3-axis motorized gimbal, which ensures that the camera footage is smooth and stable, critical for producing high-quality video and sharp photos.
- GPS + GLONASS: Both models support GPS and GLONASS for positioning, which enhances navigation accuracy and provides stability outdoors, especially in windy conditions.
- Automated QuickShots: Both the Mini 2 and Mini 3 offer QuickShots modes, which are pre-programmed flight paths that allow users to capture cinematic quality shots automatically. These include modes like Dronie, Circle, Helix, and more.
- Return to Home (RTH): A standard safety feature on many DJI drones, both models include an RTH feature that automatically brings the drone back to its launch point if it loses signal or if the battery is critically low.
- Panorama Mode: Each drone can capture wide-angle or spherical panoramas, stitching multiple photos together to create expansive scenic images.
- JPEG and RAW Photo Capture: Both models allow photographers to shoot in JPEG and RAW, providing flexibility for post-processing.
- MicroSD Card Storage: Both drones support the use of microSD cards to store photos and videos directly on the drone.
- DJI Fly App Compatibility: Both are compatible with the DJI Fly app, which provides an intuitive interface for flying the drone, capturing images/videos, and accessing additional settings and features.
Common Features
Feature | DJI Mini 3 | DJI Mini 2 |
Weight | 249 grams | 249 grams |
Max Video Resolution | 4K | 4K |
Stabilization | 3-axis gimbal | 3-axis gimbal |
Charging Interface | USB-C | USB-C |
Wireless Communications | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth |
Price | Check Mini 3 Price | Check Mini 2 Price |
FAQ
Q1: Do I need to register the DJI Mini 2 or Mini 3 with aviation authorities? A: In many countries, drones weighing under 250 grams like the DJI Mini 2 and Mini 3 do not require registration for recreational use. However, it’s important to check local regulations as they can vary by country and might require registration under certain circumstances.Q2: Can the DJI Mini 2 and Mini 3 be flown indoors? A: Yes, both drones can be flown indoors, but it is recommended to do so in spacious areas away from obstacles. The Mini 3 has additional obstacle sensors which might make it slightly safer for such use.Q3: Are these drones waterproof? A: No, neither the DJI Mini 2 nor the Mini 3 is waterproof. Flying in rain or landing in water can damage the drone.Q4: How does the Return to Home (RTH) function work? A: The RTH function is activated manually via the remote control or automatically when the drone loses connection or the battery is low. The drone then flies back to the initial takeoff point using GPS.Q5: Can the DJI Mini 2 and Mini 3 follow moving subjects? A: The Mini 3 features FocusTrack which allows it to follow subjects dynamically. The Mini 2 does not have this feature and relies on manual control for tracking. Q6: What is the maximum flight time on a single battery charge? Q7: How can I improve the video quality when recording? Q8: Are these drones compatible with all smartphones? Q9: What should I do if the drone starts behaving erratically? Q10: Can I upgrade the camera on the DJI Mini 2 or Mini 3? |