DJI Mini 2 SE and DJI Mini 3 are in a decent battle to earn their place as the perfect price range mini drone you should purchase.
These two drones are amongst our prime suggestions for the value vary of $300 to $500.
That’s why deciding which drone is healthier is difficult, however we’ll begin with an in-depth comparability {and professional} opinions.
Within the meantime, let me offer you a fast reply.
DJI Mini 3 has higher specs than DJI Mini 2 SE by way of flight time and digital camera high quality however at a barely increased value. The Mini 2 SE is without doubt one of the most cost-effective DJI drones and a unbelievable choice to begin flying.
This text is for you if you wish to find out about these drones and our ultimate suggestions.
DJI Mini 2 SE overview
Nice Starter Drone
DJI Mini 2 SE
Light-weight and Foldable Mini Drone with 2.7K Video, 10km Video Transmission, 31-min Flight Time, Below 249 g, Return to Dwelling, Automated Professional Shoots, Drone with digital camera for Newbies.
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08/15/2023 04:06 am GMT
Specs | DJI Mini 2 SE |
---|---|
Measurement | 138×81×58 mm folded, with out propellers |
Weight | 246 g at takeoff |
Max Pace (S-Mode) | 16 m/s (35.7 mph) |
Flight Time | 31 minutes |
Video Transmission | DJI O2 |
Transmission Distance | FCC: 6.2 mi (10 km); CE, SRRC, MIC: 3.7 mi (6 km) |
Wind Resistance | 10.7 m/s Stage 5 wind resistance |
Digicam | 1/2.3-in CMOS that may {photograph} at a decision of 12 MP and file at 2.7k 30 frames per second |
Gimbal | Three-axis mechanical gimbal |
Sensing System | No anti-collision sensors; solely exact hovering vary downward sensors |
Distant Controller | Suitable with DJI RC-N1 |
✅ Professionals
- Least expensive DJI drone in the marketplace and one of many latest
- Improbable drone for freshmen to begin flying
- It’s foldable and light-weight
- It weighs underneath 250 grams and should profit from relaxed drone legal guidelines
- Good flight time
- First rate digital camera high quality
- The three-axis mechanical gimbal stabilizes photos and movies, even in windy circumstances
- Can fly long-range
- Good wind resistance
- A wonderful alternative for light-weight travels
❌ Cons
- It doesn’t file in 4k, and even in 2.7k; it solely data at 30 frames per second
- The photograph decision is comparatively low, at simply 12 MP
- No anti-collision sensors
- No Lively Observe
- It additionally lacks a follow-me mode and a few clever options
The DJI Mini 2 SE was launched in March 2023, which makes it a comparatively new drone.
It’s one of many most cost-effective within the DJI household and a very good budget-friendly choice in the event you’re trying to spend money on the passion however are tight on price range.
The Mini 2 SE might not be the right alternative for skilled pictures or movies, however it might probably movie in 2.7k at 30 frames per second, greater than sufficient for many makes use of, equivalent to social media or YouTube filming.
DJI Mini 3 overview
DJI Mini 3 (DJI RC)
Light-weight and Foldable Mini Digicam Drone with 4K HDR Video, 38-min Flight Time, True Vertical Capturing, and Clever Options.
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08/15/2023 03:36 am GMT
Specs | DJI Mini 3 |
---|---|
Measurement | 148×90×62 mm folded, with out propellers |
Weight | 248 gr at takeoff |
Max Pace (S-Mode) | 16 m/s (35.7 mph) |
Flight Time | 38 minutes with Clever Battery 51 minutes with Clever Battery Plus |
Video Transmission | DJI O2 |
Transmission Distance | FCC: 6.2 mi (10 km); CE, SRRC, MIC: 3.7 mi (6 km) |
Wind Resistance | Stage 5 Wind Resistance at 10.7 m/s |
Digicam | 1/1.3-inch CMOS able to photographing at 48 MP decision or filming in 4k at 30 frames per second |
Gimbal | Three-axis mechanical gimbal |
Sensing System | No anti-collision sensors; solely obtain hovering sensors |
Distant Controller | Suitable with DJI RC-N1 and DJI RC |
✅ Professionals
- It’s light-weight and small in measurement.
- It’s underneath 250 grams
- Can movie in 4k at 30 frames per second
- The nonetheless pictures decision is as much as 48 MP
- The DJI Mini 3 has wonderful wind resistance
- This drone can fly long-range with out points
- It has a three-axis mechanical gimbal for unbelievable stabilization when filming or photographing
- This drone can fly for a very long time, particularly with Clever Battery Plus
- It’s suitable with DJI RC, the distant controller with a display screen
- It’s not very costly
❌ Cons
- It doesn’t have any obstacle-avoidance sensors
- No Lively Observe or follow-me mode
- It’s barely dearer than DJI Mini 2 SE
The DJI Mini 3 was launched in December 2022 and remains to be in manufacturing.
This drone is a unbelievable alternative for freshmen and vacationers on the lookout for an inexpensive, light-weight drone.
The filming decision is healthier than the one present in Mini 2 SE, and if we drop all the way down to 2.7k, we are able to movie at 60 frames per second, which is terrific for slow-motion footage.
If you’re into aerial pictures or on the lookout for a drone for primary industrial work (e.g., actual property pictures), you can’t go flawed with the Mini 3.
DJI Mini 2 SE vs. DJI Mini 3 – Which choice is healthier?
For many drone pilots, the DJI Mini 3 could also be a greater choice due to extra flight time and higher CMOS, which leads to higher-quality movies and images.
However that doesn’t imply the Mini 2 SE is unhealthy.
With a shallow start line, the Mini 2 SE is without doubt one of the most cost-effective DJI drones, with costs across the older model of the Mini 2.
Nevertheless, earlier than leaping to a conclusion, evaluating these two drones in-depth is greatest to see which of them excel at totally different capabilities.
» MORE: DJI Mini 2 SE vs. DJI Air 2S (Right here’s My Selection)
Pricing and availability
Abstract: DJI Mini 2 SE is cheaper than DJI Mini 3, and each drones are in manufacturing and on-sale
The worth could differ barely, whereas the Mini 3 is about $120-$140 dearer than the Mini 2 SE. These are low beginning factors in comparison with different drones.
Most drones are between $500 and $1,000. The Mini 2 SE and Mini 3’s present options make it a superb deal between what these drones can provide and their present value.
» MORE: Greatest Newbie Drones Below $500
Flight options
Abstract: Each drones profit from Clever Flight Modes and QuickShots, however none has Lively Observe or follow-me mode.
The Mini 2 SE gives a number of QuickShot modes, equivalent to Dronie, Helix, Rocket, Circle, and Boomerang. Furthermore, you’ll be able to seize panoramic photos in modes like Huge, 180-degree, or Sphere.
The Mini 2 SE has a return-to-home perform, bringing the drone again and touchdown for you with the contact of a button. It additionally has an computerized takeoff perform and might hover with excessive precision. The utmost takeoff altitude is 4,000 meters.
The Mini 3 advantages from the identical options. The one distinction is that Mini 3 has true vertical photographs, permitting you to movie or {photograph} in vertical format for TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, or different phone-optimized social media platforms.
The service ceiling for this drone can also be 4,000 meters above sea stage, however in the event you fly it with the Clever Battery Plus, it might be tougher to take off above 3,000 meters of altitude.
» MORE: Do I Want a License to Fly the DJI Mini 2 SE?
Flight efficiency
Abstract: The general flight efficiency of the DJI Mini 3 is barely higher than the DJI Mini 2 SE.
While you fly the Mini 3, you’ll really feel the drone’s flight high quality and responsiveness are barely higher than the Mini 2 SE.
As per video transmission latency, each drones have roughly 200ms on the low aspect. That is common throughout most drones with the O2 video transmission module.
A major benefit the Mini 3 has over the Mini 2 SE is that it might probably function at a temperature vary between 14° to 104° F (-10° to 40° C). In distinction, the Mini 2 SE can work solely between 32° to 104° F (0° to 40° C), in line with DJI.
This displays the flexibility of the Mini 3 to fly higher in freezing circumstances in the course of the winter.
Each drones additionally profit from the worldwide satellite tv for pc system from GPS + GLONASS + Galileo, which might purchase the identical variety of satellites based mostly on their applied sciences that can assist with RTH and some different capabilities.
Conversely, the Mini 2 SE and Mini 3 even have Stage-5 wind resistance, which is kind of superior to assist these drones stay steady in excessive winds.
And due to the three-axis mechanical gimbal, the footage taken with any of those drones will stay steady and easy.
» MORE: Methods to Calibrate a Drone (Final Information)
Digicam comparability
Abstract: The DJI Mini 3 digital camera is significantly better than the DJI Mini 2 SE.
The Mini 2 SE has a CMOS of 1/2.3-inch. This digital camera sensor is comparable in measurement to the one within the DJI FPV.
This drone can {photograph} at a decision of 12 MP.
By immediately’s requirements, 12MP is comparatively low if we’re on the lookout for skilled aerial photos.
Total, the pictures from the Mini 2 SE aren’t unhealthy. They’re fairly good if used for Instagram or social media platforms, however if you wish to {photograph} at a better decision, you need to look additional than this drone.
As for filming, the Mini 2 SE can movie in 2.7k at 30 frames per second.
When you’re trying to create cinematic content material, 2.7k must be greater than sufficient, and with 30 frames per second, if in case you have an ND filter to set the shutter pace at 1/60 or equal, you’ll be shocked by the great thing about movies this drone can seize.
This might not be sufficient for slow-motion filming. On this case, you need to drop the video decision to 1080 to movie in 60 frames per second.
The Mini 3 can movie in gradual movement at 2.7k, a lot increased than 1080p, however the authentic video decision of the Mini 3 is 4k at 30 frames per second.
At an amazing benefit, the Mini 3 sensor is 1/1.3-inch, a lot bigger than the Mini 2 SE.
This may even assist with the dynamic vary of the video and is aimed towards a extra skilled video.
The dynamic vary is the distinction between highlights and shadows, and the bigger the sensor, the higher it handles this distinction (e.g., the solar is just not too vibrant, and the shadows aren’t too darkish).
This additionally helps lots with post-processing movies.
Furthermore, the Mini 3 may movie in HDR (Excessive Dynamic Vary), boosting the video high quality by a big margin, whereas the Mini 2 SE can’t movie in HDR.
The Mini 2 SE and Mini 3 have solely “Regular” Coloration Mode, which is a drawback if you wish to color-grade your movies.
You have to a D-CineLike drone, equivalent to DJI Mini 3 Professional, DJI Air 2S, and so on.
The Mini 3 most video bitrate is 100Mbps. In distinction, the Mini 2 SE advantages solely from a 40Mbps bitrate, so the video high quality from the Mini 3 is much better.
If we’re wanting on the photograph decision from the Mini 3, it’s both 12 or 48 MP. You possibly can {photograph} significantly better with the Mini 3, with a better dynamic vary, 4 occasions the Mini 2 SE decision, and higher adjustment choices.
Each drones can {photograph} in JPEG + DNG (RAW), permitting you to additional post-process your aerial images in Lightroom or related software program.
As talked about, Mini 2 SE and Mini 3 (as with most DJI drones) have a superb three-axis mechanical gimbal that can impressively stabilize your video footage when flying or taking sharp turns, even in excessive winds.
» MORE: DJI Mini 3 – Methods to Modify Digicam Settings
Plane and controller
Abstract: The DJI Mini 3 is barely bigger than the Mini 2 SE, however each are underneath 250 grams. As properly, DJI Mini 3 is suitable with DJI RC.
Once we have a look at the shape issue of the Mini 2 SE and Mini 3, we can’t spot many variations apart from the Mini 3 being barely bigger.
Each drones have two airflow inputs going through ahead above the digital camera, a novel design from DJI that can assist the drone settle down when flying.
Additionally, each drones have two antennas going through down from the frontal arms that can act as touchdown gear.
Whereas the design of the drones is kind of related, not many variations could be noticed apart from the Mini 2 SE is a slight modification of the Mini 3 construction.
The aerodynamics of each drones are first rate, which can assist with wind resistance, flying long-range, and elevated battery life.
Each the Mini 2 SE and Mini 3 are foldable drones.
When folded, they’re small and could be positioned in a backpack or a big pocket. They will actually slot in your palms.
The Mini 2 SE is suitable solely with the commonplace DJI RC-N1 controller.
With this controller, you need to join a suitable Android or iPhone cellphone with the DJI Fly App put in to attach and fly the drone.
The stay view picture in your cellphone linked to DJI RC-N1 seen out of your drone might be 720 pixels at 30 frames per second. The latency might be round 200 milliseconds on the lowest level.
The Mini 3 can also be suitable with the identical DJI RC-N1 distant controller. After a number of firmware updates, Mini 3 grew to become suitable with the DJI RC.
The DJI RC-N1, the usual controller and not using a display screen, can have the identical necessities to perform with a cellphone with the Mini 3 as with the Mini 2 SE.
If you buy it individually or as a drone package, the Mini 3 with the DJI RC can have a number of benefits.
- The DJI RC has a 5.5-inch full HD display screen that works at 60 frames per second.
- The display screen is contact control-enabled, and its brightness is as much as 700 nits, which is unbelievable for flying a drone in full daylight.
- With DJI RC linked to the Mini 3, the transmission vary and energy are barely improved, and the latency could also be narrowly lowered.
- You’ll liberate your cell phone.
- The drone setup time is drastically lowered.
» MORE: DJI Mini 2 SE Controller (All You Have to Know)
Flight time
Abstract: The DJI Mini 3 flies longer than the DJI Mini 2 SE—additionally, the DJI Mini 3 advantages from two batteries.
The flight time of each these drones is unbelievable for 2023.
The Mini 2 SE can fly for about 31 minutes, in line with laboratory checks achieved by DJI. In real-world conditions, it is best to count on to fly your Mini 2 SE for at the very least 20 to 25 minutes.
Many elements can have an effect on flight time, equivalent to wind pace, distance, altitude, extra equipment, and so on.
In distinction, the Mini 3 has two batteries:
- The drone can fly for as much as 37 minutes with the Clever Battery
- The Mini 3 can fly for as much as a whopping 51 minutes with the Clever Battery Plus
In actuality, we must always count on a flight time of about 30 to 32 minutes and respectively 45 minutes, relying on the battery and different climate circumstances.
Be aware: When you add the Clever Battery Plus to the DJI Mini 3, this drone will exceed the 250-gram barrier and now not profit from relaxed drone legal guidelines.
The Mini 2 SE battery has a capability of 2250 mAh.
It’s a two-cell Li-ion battery weighing about 82.5 grams and has an vitality output of 17.32 Wh.
The Mini 3 Clever Battery has a capability of 2453 mAh.
This battery can also be a two-cell Li-ion weighing about 80 grams and with an vitality output of 18.1 Wh
In distinction, the Clever Battery Plus capability is 3850 mAh and weighs 121 grams with an influence of 28.4 Wh.
This battery is barely bought individually and doesn’t are available in any DJI Mini 3 package.
» MORE: When Drone Flights Go Flawed (What To not Do)
Vary
Abstract: The transmission vary of each drones is comparable, however as a result of DJI Mini 3 can fly longer and is suitable with DJI RC, it might fly farther.
Each drones have the identical DJI O2 transmission system, which is first rate if you wish to fly long-range.
The DJI O2 has the position of receiving radio instructions from the pilot and, on the similar time, transmitting stay photos again to the distant controller display screen.
Though dearer drones profit from DJI O3 and O3+, the brand new DJI Air 3 is the primary drone with the DJI O4 transmission system.
These could also be an enormous improve to flying long-range with a drone, however even like this, the DJI O2 doesn’t disappoint.
In response to DJI, each drones have a most transmission distance restricted by the FAA of 6.2 miles, whereas CE (Europe), SRRC (Mainland China), and MIC (Japan) are limiting these areas to a most of three.7 miles of flight distance.
In each conditions, the Mini 2 SE and Mini 3 can rapidly fly past the visible line of sight, which is in opposition to drone laws.
Interference can have an effect on these drones. In these circumstances, Mini 2 SE and Mini 3 will undergo from lowered flight vary in the event you fly in suburban or city areas.
Nevertheless, we must always count on slight enhancements with the Mini 3 and DJI RC when flying in increased interference areas, and due to its flight time, the drone can attain better distances earlier than it’s essential to return it safely.
When you’re on the lookout for a long-range drone, each are wonderful selections.
» MORE: Lengthy Vary Drones: Final Information
Why select DJI Mini 2 SE over DJI Mini 3?
The Mini 2 SE over the Mini 3 is a superb alternative in the event you’re on the lookout for a price range drone to be taught to fly for the primary time or an inexpensive drone to your travels.
Studying aerial filmmaking and pictures with out investing a lot is greatest.
» MORE: Is DJI Mini 2 SE Proper for You? (Right here’s Why It Is)
Why select DJI Mini 3 over DJI Mini 2 SE?
I might select the Mini 3 over the Mini 2 SE if on the lookout for a drone able to doing the fundamentals in skilled pictures or movies.
The digital camera of the Mini 3 is drastically higher than the Mini 2 SE, making this drone an appropriate alternative for several types of work.
Furthermore, if price range permits, I might select the Mini 3 with DJI RC for simplicity of organising and flying, which is great for light-weight vacationers.
DJI Mini 3 and Mini 2 SE for industrial work
Abstract: The DJI Mini 3 is healthier for various industrial actions than the DJI Mini 2 SE due to the improved digital camera.
If you would like industrial work, choose a drone that works properly to your wants fastidiously.
- Actual Property Pictures: As a result of the Mini 3 has a greater digital camera, it will likely be extra appropriate for real-estate pictures.
- Roof Inspections: Each drones can be utilized for roof inspections because of steady hovering, however none profit from optical zoom. They each have a most of 4x digital zoom at FHD decision.
- Photogrammetry: The Mini 3 is vastly higher at photogrammetry and mapping attributable to increased photograph decision.
- Skilled Pictures and Filming: None of those drones are appropriate for skilled filming and pictures companies, as you might want a Mavic 3 drone. Nevertheless, of the 2, the Mini 3 is healthier.
- Development: Each drones can examine important building, {photograph}, or movie at will. You might want a drone with optical zoom for close-up inspections.
- Emergency Companies: Neither of those drones is appropriate for emergency companies. A Mavic 3 Enterprise or related drone must be the answer. You want optical zoom and the flexibility so as to add audio system, lights, infrared cameras, and so on.
» MORE: Grow to be a Business Drone Pilot in 6 Simple Steps (Newbies Information)
DJI Mini 3 vs. DJI Mini 2 SE for actions
Neither of those drones excels at numerous actions, however they’re an excellent begin if you would like one thing low-cost and dependable.
Journey and mountain climbing
As a result of each drones are light-weight, they’re excellent for touring and mountain climbing.
You possibly can pack them in your backpack, and they’ll take up nearly no area. You received’t even really feel their weight.
The flight time of Mini 3 is healthier, so bringing fewer batteries could prevent some weight whereas flying.
If you wish to seize images and movies throughout your travels, the Mini 3 digital camera is healthier.
» MORE: Greatest Compact Drones for Journey
Excessive sports activities
Except you’re filming excessive sports activities, I might not advocate any of those drones.
The Mini 3 and Mini 2 SE lack follow-me mode. Anticipate these drones to achieve a most pace of 35.7 miles per hour.
This might not be nice if we favor high-speed, excessive sports activities. That’s why I advocate an FPV drone or DJI Mavic 3 Professional, which excels in these conditions.
» MORE: Greatest Drones for Excessive Sports activities
Vlogging
Each drones can do properly to seize B-rolls for various vlogging movies.
The Mini 3 wins right here due to the better-quality digital camera. QuickShots may also help with some primary strikes when vlogging.
» MORE: Greatest Drones for Vlogging