DJI Mini 4 Pro vs DJI Air 3: Which Drone is the Best for You?
By Naila Syifa
Updated November 2023
The DJI Mini 4 Pro and the DJI Air 3 are some of the most popular drones on the market today. While the DJI Mini 4 Pro boasts a compact and lightweight design, the DJI Air 3 has some distinctive capabilities as well. How do the two drones compare in terms of features and performance? Let's find out!
| Specs | DJI Mini 4 Pro | DJI Air 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Buy on Amazon | Buy on Amazon | |
| Price | $759 | $1,099 |
| Weight | <249 g | 720 g |
| Camera | 1/1.3-inch CMOS Wide-Angle Camera | 1/1.3-inch CMOS Wide-Angle Camera and 1/1.3-inch CMOS Medium Tele Camera |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K/100 fps | 4K/100 fps |
| Color | 10-bit D-Log M, HLG | 10-bit D-Log M, HLG |
| Vertical Shooting | Yes | Yes |
| Obstacle Sensing | Omnidirectional | Omnidirectional |
| Waypoint Flight | Yes | Yes |
| Video Transmission | Up to 20 km, 1080p/60 fps | Up to 20 km, 1080p/60 fps |
| Battery Life | 34 mins | 46 mins |
Key Takeaways
The key difference between the two is that the DJI Air 3 features a dual camera while the DJI Mini 4 Pro has a single camera. DJI Air 3 also has a longer battery life, but the DJI Mini 4 Pro has an edge with its compact and lightweight design.
DJI Mini 4 Pro
Mini Camera Drone
✓ Lightweight design
✓ 4K/60 fps HDR, 4k/100 fps Video
✓ Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing
✓ Waypoint Flight
DJI Air 3
Advanced Camera Drone
✓ Dual Primary Cameras
✓ 4K/60 fps HDR, 4k/100 fps Video
✓ Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing
✓ Waypoint Flight
#1 Price
DJI Air 3
DJI Air 3 is significantly more expensive than the DJI Mini 4 Pro, retailing at around US$1,099. On the other hand, the DJI Mini 4 Pro is priced at around US$759, making it a more affordable option, especially for those who are more budget-conscious.
#2 Design
DJI Mini 4 Pro
DJI Air 3 is larger and heavier than the DJI Mini 4 Pro, even when being folded. It measures 207 x 100.5 x 91.1 mm when folded and 258.8 x 326 x 105.8 mm when unfolded. It also weighs 720 g, which is significantly heavier than the DJI Mini 4 Pro.
DJI Mini 4 Pro weighs less than 249 g, making it an ultra-lightweight and compact drone that is convenient to take with you on the go. It is also small and compact, measuring only 148 x 94 x 64 mm when folded and 298 x 373 x 101 mm when unfolded.
#3 Features
DJI Air 3
Unlike the DJI Mini 4 Pro which features only one 1/1.3-inch CMOS Wide-Angle Camera, the DJI Air 3 features a dual-primary camera system consisting of a 1/1.3-inch CMOS Wide-Angle Camera and a 1/1.3-inch CMOS Medium Tele Camera.
This dual-camera system allows for more creative possibilities and greater flexibility in terms of shot composition. The wide-angle camera can be used to capture stunning landscape shots, while the medium tele camera is perfect for capturing details and close-up shots.
In terms of video resolution, both drones are on par. They both capture a maximum video resolution of 4K/100 fps for slow motion and 4K/60 fps for HDR videos. Both models also support vertical shooting and are equipped with 10-bit D-Log M and HLG for better dynamic range and color grading in post-production.
DJI Mini 4 Pro
SmartPhoto is available in both models, which allows for automatic scene recognition to optimize camera settings for better imaging results. Various shooting modes are also supported, including FocusTrack, QuickShots, MasterShots, Hyperlapse, Slow Motion, Night Mode, and Panorama.
You can use QuickTransfer to quickly download footage to your smartphone through a wireless connection, and the LightCut App allows for easy editing and sharing of your footage.
#4 Flight Performance
DJI Air 3
Both the DJI Mini 4 Pro and DJI Air 3 deliver outstanding flight performance. With omnidirectional obstacle avoidance, both models detect and avoid obstacles from all angles. They even have Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems (APAS) 5.0, which enables automatic braking and bypassing for additional safety, perfect for beginners or those who are still learning how to fly drones.
Advanced RTH is also available in both models, allowing the drone to automatically plan a route back to its home point safely and quickly. Other features include Waypoint Flight, which enables planning a flight route in advance and executing it automatically and repeatedly, and Cruise Control, which locks the drone's speed and altitude for smoother shots and fatigue-free piloting during long-distance flight.
Both drones also support stable video transmission, allowing you to view real-time footage in 1080p/60 fps from up to 20 km away, which is perfect for long-range flights and aerial photography.
#5 Battery Life
DJI Mini 4 Pro
With its bigger size and heavier weight, the DJI Air 3 has a longer battery life than the DJI Mini 4 Pro, which means you can fly it for longer periods of time. DJI Air 3 has a maximum flight time of 46 minutes, while the DJI Mini 4 Pro only supports up to 34 minutes.
However, you can extend the battery life of DJI Mini 4 Pro to up to 45 minutes with the additional Intelligent Flight Battery Plus accessory.
DJI Mini 4 Pro vs DJI Air 3
Final Thoughts
DJI Air 3
The DJI Mini 4 Pro and the DJI Air 3 are both excellent drones with many advanced features and capabilities, but they cater to different needs. DJI Mini 4 Pro, with its compact and lightweight design, is perfect for those who prioritize portability and convenience.
On the other hand, the DJI Air 3, with its dual-camera system and longer battery life, is the ideal choice for those who require more advanced photography/videography capabilities and longer flight times.
If you like to read more about Drone Camera, check out our other relevant guides here:
DJI Mini 4 Pro vs Mini 3 Pro
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