Comparison of DJI Mini 3 PRO and DJI Mini 2. What to buy?
In the spring of 2022, DJI updated its line of compact drones by introducing a new version - Mini 3 Pro. In terms of technology and design, the company used advanced solutions and developments in this area. At the same time, the new drone remained in the line of consumer copters. But it has significantly expanded its capabilities, offering the user new and improved technologies.
The main task of DJI engineers was to maintain the dimensions of the body and the lightness of the design, but improve the technical capabilities. In the process of a painstaking and complex set of works, this was achieved. The shooting system has been significantly updated and flight characteristics have been improved. The ideal symbiosis of technologies will not leave both beginners and experienced pilots indifferent.
To understand how well and qualitatively the new product turned out, there is a need to compare it with the previous version. At the start of sales, DJI Mini 2 was cheaper than the third generation. But DJI Mini 3 Pro turned out to be much more technologically advanced and modern. Let's try to figure it out, is this so? Let's compare these two generations using more specific parameters.
DJI Mini 2 vs Mini 3 Pro: General Specifications
Both drones share almost the same size and dimensions. The weight of the models is249 grams. The collapsible design of the support arms is similar, making it easier to transport and providing convenience for deploying and launching the aircraft in a wide variety of environments. Both versions have a wide-angle camera on board with video resolution up to 4K. Of course, there are intelligent flight and shooting modes. To the untrained eye, both copters may appear almost identical. But as they say, “the devil is always in the details.”
The 'Pro' prefix in the mini classification denotes higher performance and advanced functionality. This may include:
Larger camera sensor;
Security system update in the form of dual vision sensors;
More aerodynamic body and propellers;
Design support for two battery versions to expand autonomy;
Redesigned gimbal design to expand the rotation angle and camera;
Support vertical and horizontal shooting mode;
Improved software algorithms.
Can the DJI Mini 3 be considered an update to the drone line? On the one hand, yes, but on the other, with so many improvements, it would be correct to say that the new model marked the beginning of the emergence, so far unofficially, of a new line of amateur drones from DJI.
First of all, such a line is aimed at the amateur segment. The functionality and capabilities of the Mini 3 were created specifically to meet the needs of the audience. Of course, the copter can solve a wide range of tasks, but remains affordable.
Design: distinctive features
DJI Mini 3 Pro
DJI Mini 2
Copter weight
249 grams
249 grams
Case size
17.1*24.5*6.2 cm
15.9*20.3*5.6 cm
Folded size
14.5*9*6.2 cm
13.8*8.1*5.8 cm
Diagonal size
24,7 cm
21, cm
Safety system
Dual view sensors front/rear/bottom
Assisted touch positioning system
Unlike the Mini 2, the Mini 3's body design has undergone some changes. The manufacturer managed to improve the aerodynamic parameters of the body in order to achieve the desired streamlining, select the correct installation locations for the security system sensors, and also rework the three-axis suspension. Extended propellers had a positive effect on aerodynamic performance.
The design of the suspension is one of the very bold and unique solutions. Now it is built into the body and has two stable attachment points. This made it possible to significantly expand the angle of inclination. In addition, the new housing design provides ideal visibility for the security system. Eliminates blind spots.
Another important feature is the design support for multiple battery versions. Now the user has the opportunity to choose the level of autonomy. This allows you to expand the range of tasks you can solve using a copter.
However, Mini 2 also has a unique feature - a color-adjustable landing LED. Although this is a more aesthetic function, for some reason it did not migrate to the Mini 3.
Both copters support a microSD memory card, and the batteries are charged using a USB-C cable. In this matter, the heredity of the models is completely preserved.
Analysis of flight performance of Mini 2 and Mini 3
DJI Mini 3 Pro
DJI Mini 2
Maximum flight speed
57.6 km/h
57.6 km/h
Climb speed
18 km/h
18 km/h
Descent speed
18 km/h
12.6 km/h
Wind resistance
38.5 km/h
38 km/h
The flight characteristics of Mini 2 and Mini 3 are almost identical. In this regard, the new product has a slight advantage in the form of more stable wind resistance and descent speed. In sport mode, the Mini 3 is a little faster and more productive. However, such advantages are more related to the more advanced intelligent flight control algorithm.
As for wind resistance indicators, they are approximately the same. On paper the characteristics are a little larger, but in fact both copters are designed for operation in light gusts of wind. That is, they can be used comfortably on the coast on a good day. For all other situations, these drones are clearly not suitable.
As for the tactile sensations of flight, both models allow you to enjoy the controls. They have good maneuverability, and no version demonstrates better performance than the other.
Comparison of gimbal and camera
DJI Mini 3 Pro
DJI Mini 2
Mounting axes
Three-axis
Three-axis
Tilt angle
-135˚ to 80˚
-110˚ to 35˚
Roll angle
-135˚ to 45˚
-35˚ to 35˚
Panorama angle
-30˚ to 30˚
-20 to 20˚
The design of both copters requires a three-axis camera gimbal. This allows you to qualitatively stabilize the image, eliminate unnecessary noise and negative factors during the shooting process. The gimbal perfectly copes with image stabilization in both Mini 2 and Mini 3. However, the second has obvious advantages. By redesigning the gimbal design, the manufacturer managed to increase the camera's tilt angle.
The new gimbal mount made it possible to rotate the camera for shooting in both portrait and landscape orientations. This allows the user to create bright and unique content, fully revealing their creative potential. The Mini 3 camera unit rotates 90 degrees. While the Mini 2 has a rotation angle of only 45 degrees. The lens can also be tilted up to 60 degrees, up from 20 degrees on its predecessor. But both copters can lower the lens down 90 degrees, revealing an unsurpassed bird's-eye view of the area.
Of course, the benefits of the Mini 3's flexible gimbal adjustmentare obvious and eye-catching. This will appeal to those who shoot for blogs and need vertically oriented content. Such flexible settings will be appreciated by photography enthusiasts.
Photo quality
DJI Mini 3 Pro
DJI Mini 2
Maximum resolution for pictures
48 MP
12 MP
Camera sensor size
CMOS 1/1.3"
CMOS 1/2.3"
ISO range
100-6400
100-3200
Diaphragm
f/1.7
f/2.8
line of sight
82˚
83˚
Format support
JPEG/DNG (RAW)
JPEG/DNG (RAW)
The updated matrix of the Mini 3 Pro camera allows you to create images with a resolution of 48 megapixels. However, in fact, the default resolution is 12 megapixels. The image is processed by software algorithms and is increased in quality to a level of 48 megapixels. Perhaps this “feint” was chosen in order to avoid the large size of the image. Accordingly, such a photo processing mechanism was implemented. As a result, the pictures turn out to be very high quality and detailed. In Mini 3, the user has control over 5 frames when bracketing.
In general, the cameras in both models offer different shooting modes - interval, wide-angle, panoramic. In both cases, detail and quality remain high. The same software interface is used.
Video quality
DJI Mini 3 Pro
DJI Mini 2
Permission
4K/60
4k/60
Slow motion
1080p/120
Absent
Bitrate
150 Mbit/s
1500 Mbit/s
Digital zoom in 4K resolution
2x
2x
Digital zoom in 1080P resolution
4x
4x
In terms of technical specifications, the Mini 3 Pro confidently wins when it comes to video shooting. Ideal video recording quality was achieved thanks to the enlarged sensor and double native ISO. This capability allows you to capture a wider dynamic range when shooting in 4K/30 resolution. In addition, video recording in portrait mode is available. The user immediately receives a ready-made video for publication on social networks.
The Mini 3 Pro has added optional D-Cinelike support, which is not present in the Mini 2. Its presence allows you to shoot in a smooth color profile and opens up wide possibilities for post-processing content. Both copters take great photos in low light conditions. With the greatest possible detail.
Battery life
Mini 3 Pro Flight Battery
Mini 3 Pro FlightBatteryPlus
DJI Mini 2
Maximum autonomy
34 minutes
47 minutes
31 minutes
Average autonomy
30 minutes
40 minutes
28 minutes
Battery capacity
2453 mAh
3850 mAh
2250 mAh
Battery weight
80.5 g
121 g
86.2 g
One of the main features of the DJI Mini 3 Pro is its design support for multiple battery options. And such a solution is very practical; it gives the user the opportunity to flexibly configure autonomy. There are 2 flight batteries available - Flight Battery and Flight Battery Plus. The second, although it adds up to 10 minutes of autonomy, due to the large weight it makes the copter heavier.
The autonomy of the Mini 2 is several minutes less, even when compared to using the standard battery in the Mini 3.
Remote Control
DJI Mini 3 Pro
DJI Mini 2
Data transmission technology
DJ 03
DJ O2
Data transmission range
8 kilometers
8 kilometers
Quality of data transmission in real time
1080p/30
720r/30
The main advantage of the DJI Mini 3 Pro is the ability to choose a controller or abandon it altogether. Fortunately, the manufacturer has provided a package without a control panel. You can choose from the DJ-N1 model and the updated DJI RC with a built-in touch display.
DJ Mini 2 comes with a DJ-N1 remote control. This is a classic version of the controller with a minimum number of controls and a holder for a smartphone. Convenient ergonomics allow you to comfortably use it in various conditions.
The updated version of DJI RC has a 5'5" touch screen and fairly good brightness. It integrates DJI software with which you can make the necessary settings. The main advantage of the remote control is that there is no need to connect a smartphone.
Software Features
As for the software, both copters are equipped with a gentlemanly set of shooting and flight functions. Of course, Mini 3 leads in the number of technological solutions and updates. For example, thanks to the advent of safety sensors, the APAS 4.0 pilot assistance system is available. Active Track 4.0 object tracking technology has been updated. Both models support QuickShots modes.
The user has access to proprietary DJI software tools for fast data transfer and content editing. Upload images, insert templates, change scenes, add music and much more. Wide functionality opens up endless possibilities for creativity.
Let's sum it up
When choosing between Mini 2 and Mini 3 Pro, you should prioritize your personal needs, preferences and goals. Both drones can be considered feature-rich and productive in the compact category. Of course, Mini 3 has a lot of technological solutions that can be useful. But, if the copter’s task is simple amateur photography with good resolution, then the Mini 2 is ideal for this task.
On the one hand, the abundance of technological innovations in the Mini 3 is impressive. But, if there is no need to use them, then it makes no sense to pay more. After all, for such tasks you can buy a Mini 2 and solve them successfully. Therefore, before purchasing a copter, it is recommended to carefully analyze what functionality will be required in the future. Perhaps the proprietary features of the Mini 3 Pro will not be useful. This means there is no point in paying money for them.
Both copters are capable of giving a lot of pleasant and positive impressions from the control process. The capabilities of Mini 2, despite the unconditional dominance of Mini 3 Pro, remain relevant and in demand today. This means that this model is also a good option for purchase.
