DJI Mini 3 Pro Review: A Game Changer for Compact Drones (2024)

Getting my hands on the DJI Mini 3 Pro was an exciting experience. This drone, packed with advanced features and a sleek design, promises a lot. After spending time with it, I can confidently say it lives up to the hype, offering exceptional performance and ease of use for both beginners and seasoned drone enthusiasts.

Design and Portability

One of the first things that struck me about the DJI Mini 3 Pro is its lightweight and compact design. Weighing in at less than 249 grams, this drone is incredibly portable and doesn’t require registration in most countries. Its foldable structure makes it a perfect travel companion, easily fitting into a backpack without adding significant weight.

Camera Quality

The camera on the Mini 3 Pro is nothing short of impressive. It shoots stunning 4K/60fps videos and captures crisp 48MP photos. With dual native ISO and an f/1.7 aperture, it excels in both daylight and low-light conditions. This makes it versatile for various shooting environments. I found the image quality to be excellent, and the video playback smooth, providing a professional-grade feel to my footage.

Vertical Shooting Mode

One standout feature is the True Vertical Shooting mode. The gimbal can rotate 90 degrees to shoot in portrait mode, which is ideal for creating social media content. This feature eliminates the need for post-production cropping, ensuring that your vertical shots retain full quality and detail.

Flight Time

Flight time is a crucial factor for any drone enthusiast, and the Mini 3 Pro delivers impressively. With a maximum flight time of up to 34 minutes, I was able to explore and capture more without frequent interruptions for battery changes. This extended airtime is a significant improvement, allowing for longer sessions and more creativity in capturing shots.

Safety and Obstacle Avoidance

Safety is paramount, and DJI has equipped the Mini 3 Pro with tri-directional obstacle sensing and APAS 4.0. These features significantly reduce the risk of collisions, providing a safer flying experience. The drone can detect and avoid obstacles in its path, which is a huge relief, especially when flying in complex environments.

Intelligent Flight Features

The Mini 3 Pro comes with a suite of intelligent flight features that enhance the flying and filming experience. FocusTrack, MasterShots, Timelapse, and QuickTransfer are just a few of the modes available. These features automate complex shots, making it easier to capture professional-quality footage without extensive manual control.

Controller and Connectivity

The new DJI RC controller is a notable upgrade. It includes a built-in 5.5-inch HD display, eliminating the need to use a smartphone. This screen is bright and clear, even in direct sunlight. The controller is intuitive and packed with features for different camera shots. However, it doesn’t support third-party apps, which might be a limitation for some users who prefer additional functionality.

Pros and Cons

Pros

1. Compact and Lightweight: Easy to carry and travel-friendly.
2. Extended Flight Time: Up to 34 minutes of uninterrupted flying.
3. High-Quality Camera: 4K/60fps video and 48MP photos with advanced imaging capabilities.
4. Obstacle Avoidance: Tri-directional sensing and APAS 4.0 for enhanced safety.
5. Intelligent Modes: Various automated modes for creative and professional shots.
6. Built-in Display Controller: Convenient and clear HD display for flying.

Cons

1. Visibility: The light gray color can make it hard to see in the sky, especially against clouds.
2. No Extra Battery Included: A spare battery would be a valuable addition.
3. Instruction Quality: The included instructions and tutorials could be more detailed and beginner-friendly.

Recommended Accessories

To maximize the potential of the DJI Mini 3 Pro, consider these accessories:
– DJI Mini 3 Pro Fly More Kit Plus
– DJI Mini 3 Series ND Filter Set
– DJI Mini 3 Propeller Holder
– DJI Mini 3 Pro Wide-Angle Lens
– Apple Duo 35W Compact Charger
– SanDisk Extreme 128GB microSDXC V30 for the drone
– SanDisk Extreme 64GB microSDXC V30 for the RC Controller
– SeaSky Neck Strap

Final Words

The DJI Mini 3 Pro stands out as a top-tier consumer drone, blending advanced features with ease of use. Its compact design, exceptional camera quality, and extended flight time make it a versatile tool for both amateur and professional photographers and videographers. Despite minor drawbacks, such as the need for an extra battery and improved instructional materials, its performance and capabilities make it a worthwhile investment.

Overall, the DJI Mini 3 Pro delivers an incredible flying experience. From unboxing to capturing breathtaking shots, it’s a joy to use. Whether you’re just starting or looking to upgrade, this drone is a reliable and impressive choice for taking your aerial photography to new heights. Remember to register the drone with the FAA if you plan on adding any accessories that increase its weight over 249 grams.