[Software] DJI Mini 2 vs Mavic Mini: 5 key differences between the beginner drones

[Agent47]

 

 

The DJI Mini 2 has flown into our lives just a year after the arrival of the DJI Mavic Mini. It's surprising to see a successor to DJI's smallest and cheapest drone already, so what new tricks has it learnt in just 12 months?

On the surface, the DJI Mini looks identical to the Mavic Mini, with both drones featuring identical designs and three-axis gimbals.

There are other similarities, too – both the Mini 2 and Mavic Mini have the same image sensor, automated QuickShot modes and DJI Fly companion app. 

But DJI has managed to add a few headline upgrades that could tempt existing Mavic Mini owners to trade their drones in for the new model. 
While the Mini 2 remains an beginner drone that falls short of offering pro-level flying performance or features, it is the most powerful little flying camera we've seen at this size and price point.

Here are the five main ways the DJI Mini 2 differs from 2019's Mavic Mini, which will remain on sale as an even cheaper alternative...

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1. The Mini 2 shoots 4K video
One of our main criticisms of the DJI Mavic Mini was that it didn't record 4K video, instead topping out at a maximum 2.7K/30p resolution. The Mini 2 addresses that with a headline 4K/30p mode, which it can shoot at a bit-rate of 100Mbps.
That said, the DJI Mavic Air 2 offers another step up with its combination of a larger 1/2-inch sensor and 120Mbps bit-rate. The Mini 2 actually uses the same 1/2.3-inch sensor as the Mavic Mini, and we're slightly disappointed to see there's still no 2.7K/60p mode on the new model. 

But its 3-axis gimbal means you can expect superior overall quality than the most other entry-level drones and the extra resolution gives you 2x lossless zoom when shooting in 1080p (or 4x digital zoom if you're prepared to take an image quality hit).

2. Ocusync helps the Mini 2 fly further
DJI uses different transmission systems (which is the way the drone and controller communicate) for different models. Its beginner drones tend to use Enhanced Wi-Fi, which is what we saw on the DJI Mavic Mini. But thanks to a new controller, the Mini 2 has surprisingly has a more advanced proprietary system called Ocusync 2.0.

What does this mean? You'll be able to control and see the Mini 2's video feed from much further away than on the Mavic Mini. While the latter's maximum range is 4km, its successor promises to be controllable via a reliable HD video feed from 6km away (in Europe) or 10km in FCC-compliant countries like the US and Australia.