Hello, and thanks for checking this comparability article.
Within the grand journey of looking for the right drone, we need to share an unlikely comparability between two equally priced drones, the DJI FPV and DJI Air 2S.
Coming from totally different worlds however sharing the identical producer, these drones are outstanding in several methods for what they’re designed to do.
I really like flying FPVs, however I additionally fly GPS drones usually. Should you’re weighing between these two drones, I may help you select between the DJI FPV and Air 2S.
Which drone is healthier?
Should you’re on the lookout for a drone for skilled pictures and videomaking that gives many security options and clever modes, look no additional than the 1-inch CMOS DJI Air 2S.
Nonetheless, when you’re on the lookout for a problem and a thrill whereas capturing essentially the most excellent movies, then the DJI FPV needs to be your goal.
Let’s break down this matter and evaluate these drones that can assist you select the precise one with out spending your hard-earned cash on the incorrect one.
Temporary Overview
DJI FPV
FPV drones are the factor of the longer term. However DJI didn’t be a part of the large leagues of producing FPV drones till January 2021, with their first FPV drone, the DJI FPV.
Though DJI is thought to be the innovative in technological development the place they launched digital transmission, DJI FPV was a nice shock for a lot of pilots. That is the drone to search for when you’re searching for simplicity to get into FPV.
By now, we’re approaching the drone’s third birthday. And but, it’s right here for us to match as a result of, even immediately, it’s the sort of drone that made this interest extra accessible to many.
After all, as I’ve talked about in different articles, I exploit the DJI FPV commonly and fly it at medium to lengthy vary to create cinematic content material. I merely like it; it’s an amazing drone with each good and dangerous factors.
So, what sort of options does the DJI FPV have?
- It’s the primary FPV drone to characteristic flights in guide (acro mode) in addition to in regular and sport modes like normal GPS drones. DJI Avata additionally shares the identical characteristic.
- It’s meant for quick and long-range flights with the chance to freestyle and even race.
- This drone gives an unparalleled flying expertise when utilizing the FPV headset. It gives an adrenaline increase and an immersive dopamine launch as customers see what the drone sees in VR.
- It’s the primary FPV drone to share a characteristic referred to as “Emergency Brake.” With a push of a button, the drone will come to an prompt cease, change to regular mode, and hover – greatest to make use of while you lose management of the drone.
- The DJI FPV has robust motors and may carry a GoPro or comparable motion digicam for creating higher cinematic content material.
- It gives a simple technique to get into FPV with out coping with complicated setups, connection protocols, firmware incompatibilities, Betaflight configurations, and harmful LiPo charging. It’s a easy turn-on-and-fly FPV drone.
» MORE: DJI FPV – How you can Take Off and Land (Step-by-Step Information)
DJI Air 2S
When it comes to digicam high quality and worth, the DJI Air 2S was the king of the “greatest bang on your buck drone.”
It’s not the newest “Air” drone and was surpassed by the DJI Air 3 in lots of situations, however not camera-related (besides that the Air 3 has two cameras).
These days, many drone pilots like me select to fly the Air 2S simply due to the massive 1-inch CMOS sensor, which is made for low-light and night time pictures with nice dynamic vary. The Air 3 cameras have the 1/1.3-inch CMOS.
However the DJI Air 2S has extra to supply.
Listed here are a number of the high perks of this drone.
- The massive 1-inch CMOS isn’t discovered on equally priced drones, not from DJI or different producers. It’s the most cost effective choice for stepping into skilled filming and pictures, even at night time.
- The Air 2S options OcuSync 3.0, which is superb for flying long-range with respectable interference penetration. This drone may fly for as much as 31 minutes.
- As a newbie, you’ll love the 4-way impediment avoidance system. It is probably not nearly as good because the omnidirectional one present in Air 3 or DJI Mini 4 Professional within the worth vary, however we have to make a compromise for the digicam high quality.
- The DJI Air 2S has many clever flight modes, from Lively Monitor with follow-me mode to QuickShots and Waypoints.
» MORE: DJI Air 2S – A Full Actual-World Overview
Fast Verdict
Let me get straight to the reply you’ve come for when you’re in a rush.
Right here at Droneblog, we write opinions and comparisons based mostly on private expertise, experience, and data; we have now practically all of the big-brand drones, so you’ll be able to depend on our suggestions.
Should you’re a newbie or skilled photographer, desire a drone for industrial work, or just need to take the less-risky method, the DJI Air 2S is the drone for you.
However when you’re on the lookout for challenges to fly one thing quick and seize some distinctive cinematic movies, and you have already got not less than fundamental data of flying drones, then the DJI FPV is what you’re on the lookout for.
Only a warning: The DJI FPV has a steep studying curve if you wish to fly in guide (acro) mode, and also you’ll should endure coaching for a lot of hours behind an FPV simulator to be able to fly it.
» MORE: DJI Avata vs. DJI Air 2S (Right here’s my Selection)
What are the principle variations?
As a result of these drones are designed for several types of pilots and aims, we should always anticipate fairly a couple of variations between them.
Right here’s how these drones stand out from one another:
- Flight Problem: The DJI FPV is an FPV drone with a special flight fashion in guide (acro) mode than the DJI Air 2S, which shares the usual GPS flight fashion. Flying DJI FPV is extra complicated than the Air 2S, however not in regular or sport modes.
- Digicam: The DJI Air 2S 1-inch CMOS is greater than twice as massive because the one discovered within the DJI FPV, 1/2.3 inch CMOS. And to not point out, the DJI Air 2S can movie in 5.4k at 30fps, whereas the DJI FPV movies in 4k at 60fps.
- Options: The Air 2S boosts many clever features and security options that the DJI FPV lacks. When it comes to options present in FPV drones, the DJI FPV has some benefits, however not over the Air 2S.
- Transportation: After we’re trying to carry these drones round, do not forget that the DJI Air 2S is foldable and takes up much less area than the DJI FPV drone, which doesn’t fold. You additionally want additional area for the DJI Goggles.
- Flight Expertise: Whereas the DJI Air 2S flies like a regular drone (DJI Mini 3 Professional, Mavic 3 Professional, and many others.) and also you’ll see the picture through the cellphone display screen or RC display screen, the DJI FPV provides you an immersive expertise the place you see the reside view at low latency, good decision, and excessive framerate through the suitable goggles.
» MORE: Autel EVO Lite Plus vs DJI FPV (Right here’s My Favourite)
DJI FPV
I really like my DJI FPV drone. I merely like it, however that’s as a result of I’m an FPV sort of one who loves flying such drones.
Should you get into FPV, anticipate to develop an obsession and barely look again at flying normal drones. FPV has a lot to supply, identical to this drone.
My DJI FPV drone stands on the desk simply to remind me to select it up and go open air to fly it. It’s not saved in long-term storage like another drones I’ve. It’s one I usually use, and I make the most of it.
However I’ve been fortunate as a result of I’ve by no means crashed it to date.
» MORE: Replace DJI FPV Drone (Step by Step Information)
Flying FPV, particularly with the DJI FPV, comes at the next threat of crashing your drone since you gained’t make the most of any sort of security options (apart from the emergency brake).
Should you think about freestyle with the DJI FPV, then you definitely nearly assure crashing the drone when you don’t have a wealthy FPV background.
And sure, you’ll mainly management the drone in essentially the most “guide” method potential (in fact, we’re nonetheless speaking about flying it in acro mode) with out counting on any sensors to stage the drone, hover, stabilize it, or use the anti-collision sensors.
However the adrenaline it provides me once I fly this drone – I can’t share this with you as a result of there aren’t any phrases to explain it. Generally, you overlook you’re flying the drone, and your mind thinks you’re up there.
Do you could have movement or peak illness? Then I assume this drone is probably not for you.
After I gave my associate a pair of goggles to look at what I noticed once I was flying the drone, after a giant dive with my DJI FPV, I heard her scream at me and take the goggles off.
She has by no means tried them since and remained simply an observer of me having enjoyable!
Sure, I’ve a variety of enjoyable.
However I additionally measure dangers and put the drone’s and others’ security first. Whereas I generally attempt to beat my very own information, I’ve to assume: What if I crash this drone? Not even a puzzle skilled can put it again collectively.
DJI FPV Combo
Get pleasure from crystal-clear real-time and HD Low-Latency Transmission video, even at distances of as much as 6.2 miles.
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11/30/2023 04:01 am GMT
DJI Air 2S
As to sharing my private expertise, the Air 2S doesn’t give me the identical tunnel imaginative and prescient because the DJI FPV. However as an expert photographer, I usually need to seize the perfect pictures I can.
Proper now, whereas I’m writing this text at 07:00 AM and I look out of the window on the hill close by and see the low-level clouds and the late autumn tree colours, all I’m considering of is to seize it and take some unbelievable photographs, as a result of this drone is able to doing simply that.
And no, I’m not contemplating every other drone as a result of not many have the digicam high quality to match with that of the Air 2S (except you’re going for the Mavic 3 collection).
» MORE: Can You Fly DJI Air 2s at Night time? (Defined)
However total, the DJI Air 2S is a a lot better drone than the DJI FPV for novices, even when you don’t think about flying manually.
From impediment avoidance to the various different issues I can do with the clever modes, they often assist greater than loads to get the footage I’m on the lookout for.
Right here at Droneblog, many people are industrial drone pilots. We’re fairly choosy about which drones discover a spot within the industrial fleet.
However in some way, the Air 2S is there as a result of it’s greater than a incredible drone.
It is probably not the lightest (underneath 250 grams), however the digicam sensor makes the excellence in getting the photographs we want in locations the place we will’t fly different drones or they’re unavailable for use.
DJI Air 2S Fly Extra Combo
Drone with 3-Axis Gimbal Digicam, 5.4K Video, 1-Inch CMOS Sensor, 4 Instructions of Impediment Sensing, 31-Min Flight Time, Max 7.5-Mile Video Transmission, MasterShots, Grey
We earn a fee when you make a purchase order, at no extra value to you.
11/30/2023 11:41 am GMT
Head-to-Head Comparability
Digicam System
Winner: DJI Air 2S
A couple of times I’ve talked about how good the DJI Air 2S digicam is. Is it actually that good?
Completely. And no, I’m not making an attempt to persuade you of something, however the sensor dimension is even bigger than the one discovered within the latest DJI Air 3.
After all, the Air 3 has two cameras, so that they sacrifice the sensor dimension to keep up the value. Nonetheless, when it comes to picture and video high quality, dynamic vary, decision, and capabilities, the DJI Air 2S digicam stands out.
So, with the 1-inch CMOS, not many drones have such sensors. Possibly the Mavic 3 line with their 4/3 Hasselblad, which is greater than double the value, or the Autel EVO Lite Plus, which does share an identical sensor.
However I at all times felt the Air 2S was greater than I wanted, not less than for now.
Do I even have to say the DJI FPV digicam? I’m not ashamed of it, however it’s far under immediately’s requirements.
It has a 1/2.3-inch CMOS. It isn’t that nice with the dynamic vary, and I at all times struggled a bit to post-process my movies, even when they’re filmed in D-Cinelike.
However on this case, we have now to do not forget that the DJI FPV digicam ought to be used primarily for reside feed.
This comes from an FPV pilot: Please use a GoPro or comparable motion digicam on high of the DJI FPV drone as a result of it really works fantastically, and you’ll seize the perfect photographs you’ll be able to in guide mode. Nevertheless it’s ineffective when you’re going to fly in regular or sport modes solely.
So, when you’re going to have or have already got the DJI FPV drone, I can’t say the digicam is the worst of all.
The truth is, it’s not. It’s okay, and I really like that I can movie in 4k at 60 frames per second after which post-process or decelerate elements for some little bit of slow-motion results.
However when you’re on the lookout for extra framerate, then you definitely’ll should drop to full HD for 120FPS, whereas the Avata has 120FPS at 2.7k and the DJI Air 2S… effectively, on the similar FHD decision.
» MORE: Digicam Expertise in Drones (Defined)
Efficiency
Winner: DJI FPV
Previously couple of years, DJI drones have continued to enhance, and now they’re secure and can be utilized with out points, even by novices.
We are able to depend on their excessive efficiency and options.
But when we have now to decide on between these two drones, I do think about that the DJI FPV has higher flight efficiency than the DJI Air 2S.
Right here’s why.
Relating to wind resistance, flying an FPV drone in acro mode relies upon not on the drone’s stability however on its weight, aerodynamics, and motor power.
As I’ve mentioned in one other article, I might be courageous sufficient to fly the DJI FPV drone in guide mode in some excessive climate, even in winds past 60mph. The DJI FPV’s wind resistance is marketed as a most of 31 mph when flying in regular mode.
Right here’s one other massive win for the DJI FPV drone.
The DJI FPV can attain speeds as much as 87 miles per hour and speed up to 60mph in lower than two seconds. The DJI Air 2S can’t fly quicker than 42 mph in sport mode.
The DJI Air 2S may be very secure when flying the drone, and the footage is clean due to its 3-axis mechanical gimbal. Nonetheless, the DJI FPV can be very secure when flying in regular mode, though it solely has a single-axis gimbal.
Furthermore, the DJI FPV has a singular aerodynamic form (“potato”) that’s advantageous for flying easily and steadily at any pace with out points.
» MORE: DJI Air 2S in Excessive Climate (Defined)
Good Options
Winner: DJI Air 2S
The DJI Air 2S has a nice follow-me mode with Lively Monitor and APAS 4.0.
Though I’m not the sort of one who usually makes use of automated features when flying drones (I like to be answerable for the drone and never let a pc make the selections for me), they’re there for use at any time with ease and nice accuracy.
On the security options aspect, the Air 2S has 4-way impediment avoidance sensors that work seamlessly with the follow-me mode when flying in regular mode.
Observe: The DJI FPV is the primary and solely FPV drone on the earth to supply frontal anti-collision sensors. They’re not helpful when flying in guide mode, however when you’re a newbie flying in regular mode, you’ll be able to make the most of these sensors.
The one two sensible options we will consider on the DJI FPV are the emergency brake we spoke about earlier and the automated return-to-home characteristic.
Having an RTH module in an FPV drone is a giant win. And contemplating that DJI produces wonderful return-to-home modules that work with nice accuracy (as in comparison with customized modules), there’s yet one more win for DJI FPV, particularly when you fly long-range.
After all, the DJI Air 2S additionally has a return-to-home operate. Nevertheless it has extra. A lot extra when it comes to clever processes, fast flight modes, and automatic operations.
DJI FPV lacks any of these.
» MORE: DJI Air 2S Clever Flight Modes (Step-By-Step Information)
Flight time and vary
Winner: DJI Air 2S
We have now to present this level to the DJI Air 2S. Not as a result of the DJI FPV can’t fly long-range – in truth, it’s made for this type of flight, and I really like to take action.
However the DJI Air 2S may fly long-range due to the OcuSync 3.0 transmission system, and the battery will final loads longer.
Though it’s not comparable with 45+ minute batteries discovered within the DJI Air 3 or Mavic 3 drones, DJI advertises the Air 2S to have the ability to fly for as much as 31 minutes.
In actuality, to return the drone safely and land at a good proportion with out the danger of this drone falling out of the sky, we should always anticipate to fly for about 24-25 minutes.
On the opposite aspect, the DJI FPV can fly for as much as 20 minutes, and that’s it. In guide mode, anticipate to fly for 12-13 minutes at most.
That’s a bit bit low, isn’t it?
No, it’s not.
In FPV, we normally fly these drones for 3 to 7 minutes and barely extra. That’s as a result of the Lipo batteries are smaller, the drones are a lot quicker, drain a variety of amps, and are actually snappy once we speed up.
Now, the 12-13 minutes in guide mode is a giant win for DJI FPV, however it’s lower than superb when you’re trying to take pleasure in having the drone within the sky for so long as you’ll be able to.
» MORE: Lengthy Vary Drones: Final Information
RC Compatibility
Winner: DJI FPV
This part needs to be a tie, however I might be inclined to present it to DJI FPV. And right here’s why.
I’ve the DJI FPV with the DJI FPV Distant Controller 2 and the DJI FPV Goggles V2.
Sadly, the DJI FPV Distant Controller 2 is the one ‘regular’ RC suitable with this drone. However you can even use the DJI Movement Controller and DJI RC Movement 2.
On high of that, we have now the unique DJI FPV Goggles V2, that are completely incredible. However the DJI FPV can be suitable with the DJI Goggles 2 from Avata and the most recent DJI Integra.
So, the DJI Air 2S is suitable with the DJI RC-N1, DJI RC, and DJI RC Professional distant controllers.
If we’re wanting just for controller compatibility, the Air 2S could possibly be a winner with out contemplating the DJI FPV’s movement controllers.
However as a result of the DJI FPV drone is extensively suitable for use with a number of goggles and, in fact, movement controllers, this counts as greater than what the DJI Air 2S gives.
DJI Air 2S’s compatibility with the DJI RC Professional stunned us all as a result of that skilled distant controller “needs to be” suitable solely with the Mavic 3 collection.
A few of us at Droneblog have the DJI RC Professional, which is incredible to make use of with the DJI Air 2S. Nonetheless, this controller prices as a lot because the drone itself.
Now, with the brand new DJI RC 2 and RC-N2 that includes the OcuSync 4.0, we could by no means anticipate compatibility with the Air 2S. However currently, DJI has launched equipment and elements for the DJI FPV and Avata like hotcakes that, surprisingly, are all suitable with DJI FPV.
So, seeing one other pair of goggles or a distant controller that works simply nice with the DJI FPV shouldn’t be a shock.
» MORE: DJI Goggles 2 vs DJI FPV Goggles V2 (Defined)
Flight Expertise
Winner: DJI FPV
With none doubt, even when I’m at all times inclined to advertise the FPV expertise or not, this level goes to the DJI FPV.
It’s merely unbelievable what you see via the goggles while you fly the DJI FPV in guide mode at over 60 miles per hour, cruising at a couple of toes above the bottom and inches from a major influence.
The journey of flying DJI FPV and any FPV drone merely can’t be in contrast with flying normal drones, not now, not ever.
As a aspect reality, I be in contact with many FPV pilots on social media and teams. All of them, like me, have a background in flying normal drones.
However all of them share the identical opinion: as soon as they received into FPV and discovered the mechanics of flying such drones, whether or not we’re speaking about DJI FPV or every other FPV drone, they might fly normal drones solely as a necessity however not for enjoyable anymore.
FPVs are extra enjoyable and nice to fly than normal drones at an element of 10, and this isn’t solely my opinion. Ask any FPV pilots, and also you’ll discover out for your self.
So, when you’re on the lookout for the perfect flight expertise, adrenaline, and pleasure when flying a drone, go FPV and choose the DJI FPV so you could have the controller and goggles which are additionally absolutely suitable with Avata.
Should you additional need to get Avata as your first cinewhoop drone, you should utilize the identical goggles and controller with it – you’ll solely want to purchase the drone and nothing else.
» MORE: FPV Acro Freestyle (Final Information)
Conclusion
Two totally different class drones, comparable in worth however focusing on a special class of pilots.
I really like each of them and have used these drones many instances. However I’m going to go away my pleasure for FPV and provide you with a transparent reply based mostly on details, data, and expertise.
The DJI Air 2S is an total winner. It is going to be extra useful to you, particularly when you’re simply stepping into the drone interest otherwise you’re on the lookout for an expert drone for pictures, filming, vlogging, industrial work, or a thousand different makes use of.
Alternatively, and never far off the value, you’ll be able to look into DJI Air 3.
» MORE: DJI Air 3 Overview – Is This the Drone for You?
The DJI FPV drone is barely a small step up from normal drones, and you must get it when you’re on the lookout for adrenaline and a singular expertise or to seize some outstanding FPV video content material.
However you shouldn’t get it as a first-time drone pilot with out contemplating all of the dangers of flying FPV and the excessive possibilities of crashing the drone when you don’t fly it exceptionally effectively.
And bear in mind, FPV (with DJI FPV in guide mode) has a steep studying curve with many hours behind a simulator.
As a substitute for DJI FPV, you can even take a look on the DJI Avata.
