DJI is the undisputed leader when it comes to consumer drones and aerial photography. The Chinese company is renowned for making high-quality quadcopters packed with innovative features. Two of DJI‘s most popular drone models are the Mavic 2 Pro and the newer Mini 3 Pro. But which one is right for you?
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll compare the DJI Mini 3 Pro vs Mavic 2 Pro across the key factors that matter most – camera quality, flight performance, safety features, portability and price. Let‘s take a detailed look at what each awesome drone brings to the table.
DJI Mini 3 Pro vs Mavic 2 Pro: Key Specs Comparison
| Specification | DJI Mini 3 Pro | DJI Mavic 2 Pro |
| Weight | Less than 249g | 907g |
| Dimensions (Folded) | 145 x 90 x 62 mm | 214 x 91 x 84 mm |
| Max Flight Time | 34 minutes | 31 minutes |
| Top Speed (S Mode) | 16 m/s | 20 m/s |
| Max Transmission Range | 12 km | 8 km |
| Camera Resolution | 48 MP | 20 MP |
| Video Resolution | 4K at 60fps | 4K at 30fps |
| Aperture | f/1.7 (fixed) | f/2.8-f/11 (adjustable) |
| Sensor Size | 1/1.3" | 1" |
| Obstacle Avoidance Sensors | Front, Back and Bottom | Front, Back, Bottom and Sides |
| Price | $759 (with remote) | $1,729 (new) |
It‘s clear from the specs that there are noticeable differences when it comes to size, weight, flight performance and imaging capabilities between the Mini 3 Pro and Mavic 2 Pro. Let‘s dig deeper into the key factors that should influence your buying decision.
Camera Quality and Shooting Capabilities
The cameras attached to these drones produce amazing aerial footage and photography, but there are some significant differences to consider.
The Mavic 2 Pro is equipped with a 1-inch CMOS sensor and leverages the color science and imaging expertise of iconic camera brand Hasselblad. This gives Mavic 2 Pro excellent light and color performance. It can shoot 20MP stills and 4K video up to 30 fps.
The Mini 3 Pro fights above its weight class when it comes to photo and video quality. You get a 48MP, 1/1.3-inch sensor capable of shooting crisp, vivid 4K footage at a smooth 60 fps. The increased frame rate allows for silky smooth slow motion playback.
The Mini 3 Pro‘s fixed f/1.7 aperture allows more light into the lens compared to the Mavic 2 Pro‘s variable aperture. On the other hand, the ability to manually adjust the Mavic 2 Pro‘s aperture provides more exposure control and creative options when shooting video.
Both models produce professional-grade results, but the Mavic 2 Pro has a clear edge for serious photographers who want larger image sensor, RAW photos and precise exposure settings. The Mini 3 Pro is perfectly suitable for everyday recreational use and capturing stunning social media content.
Flight Performance
These drones are both incredibly nimble in the air thanks to DJI‘s expertise with flight control systems and brushless motor technology. That being said, the larger and heavier Mavic 2 Pro understandably has a slight advantage in terms of raw performance and fighting against high winds.
The Mavic 2 Pro has a top speed of 20 m/s in Sport mode which allows you to fly fast and shoot dynamic footage. The Mini 3 Pro isn‘t far behind with a top speed of 16 m/s even though it weighs a fraction of its bigger sibling.
When it comes to flight time, the Mini 3 Pro can stay airborne 2-3 minutes longer at 34 minutes thanks to better efficiency and power draw from its smaller motors and body. The Mavic 2 Pro still gives you an awesome 30 minutes aloft per charge.
The Mini 3‘s compact and lightweight design allows you to maneuver it smoothly even in tight spaces. So indoor use is very feasible. At the end of the day, both models are extremely responsive and handle beautifully in most conditions.
Safety Features and Obstacle Avoidance
Collision protection technologies on drones have advanced a lot in recent years. DJI leads the industry when it comes to forward-thinking safety features that provide peace of mind.
The Mavic 2 Pro understandably offers the most robust obstacle avoidance with dual front and rear sensors along with bottom and side sensors. Even high-end racing drones don‘t provide this level of omnidirectional object detection and automated path correction.
That being said, the Mini 3 Pro has also been significantly upgraded compared to past Mini models. You now get front, rear and bottom sensors which covers the most important areas drones tend to impact.
Depending on your comfort level, flying environment and piloting abilities, the Mavic 2 Pro‘s extra side sensors may be worthwhile if you want maximum safety. But the Mini 3 Pro has highly effective collision prevention where it matters most and includes the invaluable Return to Home function if you lose connection with the remote.
Ease of Transport and Portability
One area where the Mini 3 Pro completely outshines the Mavic 2 Pro is with portability and ease of transport.
Weighing less than 249 grams, the Mini 3 can literally fit inside a jacket pocket or small pouch. Just unfold the compact drone and you‘re ready for flight in seconds. The Mavic 2 Pro comes in around a whopping 900 grams once you factor in the gimbal cover, awkward folding design and bulkier profile.
So if you plan to travel often with your drone or hike to remote locations for aerial photography, the Mini 3 Pro is a dream come true for its size. DJI managed to pack pro-level performance into a drone body not much larger than a smartphone.
Price and Value Comparison
As you would expect, these premium drones have very different price tags attached to them. The Mavic 2 Pro launched with an MSRP around $1500. Despite being over 3 years old, it still costs $1300+ at major retailers thanks to enduring popularity and unmatched capabilities.
The Mini 3 Pro goes for $759 including DJI‘s latest RC-N1 remote controller. That makes it less than half the price of the Mavic 2 Pro. For cost-conscious buyers who want fantastic camera quality and flight time without breaking the bank, the Mini 3 Pro delivers tremendous bang for buck.
Ultimately, the Mavic 2 Pro justifies its higher price with professional-level aerial photography and videography features. The Mini 3 Pro exceeds all expectations of an entry-level drone and gives you 60% of the Mavic 2 Pro‘s functionality at a far more affordable price point.
Which Drone is Right For You?
So now that we‘ve compared these awesome drones across all the key metrics, which model is the best fit for your needs and budget? Here are some quick recommendations:
- For beginner and hobbyist aerial photography – DJI Mini 3 Pro
- For real estate and professional videography – DJI Mavic 2 Pro
- For travel and adventure seekers – DJI Mini 3 Pro
- For commercial inspection and mapping tasks – DJI Mavic 2 Pro
- For drone pilots on a budget – DJI Mini 3 Pro
- For maximum camera, video quality and flight performance – DJI Mavic 2 Pro
The Mini 3 Pro is the perfect entry-level drone that packs a ton of features and flies smoothly thanks to DJI‘s decades of engineering expertise. Despite the low price, you still get an amazing flying camera for everyday memories and content creation.
Enthusiasts who take their aerial videography seriously will appreciate the Mavic 2 Pro‘s superior camera quality, adjustable aperture, faster top speed and array of sensors that enable complex automated flight modes.
Hopefully this guide gave you clarity in choosing the best DJI drone for your creative goals and wallet! Let me know if you have any other questions.
