When it comes to compact drones, DJI has been a market leader for years. Their Mini series has revolutionized the way hobbyists and professionals approach aerial photography and videography. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll dive deep into the DJI Mini 3 vs Mini 3 Pro, two of the most popular models in the sub-250g category.
Both drones offer impressive capabilities in small packages, but they cater to different user needs and budgets. Whether you’re a beginner looking to explore the world of aerial imagery or a seasoned professional seeking a portable secondary drone, understanding the differences between these two models is crucial in making an informed decision.
Side by Side Comparison of Dji Mini 3 vs Mini 3 pro
| Feature | DJI Mini 3 | DJI Mini 3 Pro |
| Weight | < 249g | < 249g |
| Dimensions (Folded) | 148×90×62 mm | 145×90×62 mm |
| Max Flight Time | 38 min (standard battery) | 34 min (standard battery) |
| 51 min (Plus battery) | 47 min (Plus battery) | |
| Max Wind Resistance | 10.7 m/s | 10.7 m/s |
| Camera Sensor | 1/1.3″ CMOS | 1/1.3″ CMOS |
| Effective Pixels | 12 MP | 48 MP |
| Video Resolution | 4K/30fps, 2.7K/60fps, 1080p/60fps | 4K/60fps, 2.7K/60fps, 1080p/120fps |
| Max Video Bitrate | 100 Mbps | 150 Mbps |
| Color Profiles | Normal, D-Cinelike | Normal, D-Cinelike |
| Digital Zoom | 2x | 2x (4K), 4x (1080p) |
| Obstacle Sensing | Downward | Forward, Backward, Downward |
| APAS | No | Yes (APAS 4.0) |
| ActiveTrack | No | Yes (ActiveTrack 4.0) |
| Transmission System | O2 | O3 |
| Max Transmission Distance | 10 km | 12 km |
| Internal Storage | No | 1.2 GB |
| Intelligent Flight Modes | QuickShots | QuickShots, MasterShots, Hyperlapse |
| Price: | Check DJI Mini 3 Price | Check DJI Mini 3 Pro Price |
Why Do I Recommend DJI Mini 3 Pro
While both drones are excellent choices, the DJI Mini 3 Pro offers several advanced features that make it stand out:
- Advanced Obstacle Avoidance: The Mini 3 Pro features a tri-directional obstacle sensing system, providing better safety and peace of mind during flight.
- ActiveTrack 4.0: This intelligent tracking feature allows the drone to follow subjects automatically, perfect for solo creators or dynamic shots.
- Higher Image Quality: With a larger 1/1.3-inch sensor, the Mini 3 Pro captures better images and videos, especially in low-light conditions.
- Improved Video Capabilities: The Pro version offers 4K/60fps video recording and supports D-Cinelike color profile for more flexibility in post-processing.
- Longer Flight Time: When equipped with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus, the Mini 3 Pro can stay airborne for up to 47 minutes.
- Faster Transmission: The O3 transmission system provides a more stable and longer-range connection between the drone and controller.
- True Vertical Shooting: The gimbal can rotate 90 degrees, allowing for true vertical shots without cropping.
- Advanced Shooting Modes: Features like MasterShots, Hyperlapse, and Panorama offer more creative options for content creators.
- Optional DJI RC: The Mini 3 Pro is compatible with the DJI RC controller, which has a built-in screen for a more streamlined flying experience.
- APAS 4.0: This advanced pilot assistance system helps navigate complex environments more safely and efficiently.
Common Strengths of Dji Mini 3 and Mini 3 pro
| Features | Description |
| Portability | Both weigh under 249g, making them highly portable and exempt from registration in many areas |
| Image Sensor | 1/1.3″ CMOS sensor for high-quality images and videos |
| 4K Video | Both capable of recording 4K video footage |
| Extended Flight Time | Option for Intelligent Flight Battery Plus for longer flights |
| Foldable Design | Compact folding design for easy storage and transportation |
| Vertical Shooting | Ability to rotate camera for vertical shots, perfect for social media content |
| QuickShots | Intelligent flight modes for easy cinematic shots |
| DJI Fly App | User-friendly app for drone control and footage management |
| Raw Photo Support | Ability to capture photos in RAW format for maximum editing flexibility |
| Return to Home | Automated return feature for added safety |
What Can Both Do?
Both the DJI Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro share several capabilities that make them excellent choices for aerial photography and videography:
- Compact and Portable: Both drones weigh less than 249g, making them easy to carry and exempt from registration in many countries.
- High-Quality Imaging: Both feature a 1/1.3″ CMOS sensor for capturing detailed photos and videos.
- 4K Video: Both drones can record 4K video, although the Pro offers higher frame rates.
- Extended Flight Time: With the option of Intelligent Flight Battery Plus, both drones can achieve impressive flight times.
- QuickShots: Both models include intelligent flight modes like Dronie, Helix, Rocket, Circle, and Boomerang for easy cinematic shots.
- Vertical Shooting: Both drones can rotate their cameras for vertical shots, ideal for social media content.
- Return to Home: This safety feature ensures the drone can automatically return to its takeoff point when needed.
- Foldable Design: Both models feature a foldable design for easy storage and transport.
- DJI Fly App Compatibility: Users can control both drones using the intuitive DJI Fly app.
- Raw Photo Capture: Both drones support RAW photo format for maximum editing flexibility.
Now, let’s delve deeper into each aspect of these drones to give you a comprehensive understanding of their capabilities and differences.
Design and Portability: Both the DJI Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro excel in portability, weighing less than 249g. This weight class is crucial as it exempts the drones from registration requirements in many countries, making them ideal for travelers and hobbyists. The foldable design of both models allows for easy storage in a small bag or even a large pocket.
The Mini 3 Pro, however, has a slightly more refined design with its forward-facing obstacle avoidance sensors integrated seamlessly into the body. This gives it a more professional look while maintaining the compact form factor.
Camera and Image Quality: While both drones feature a 1/1.3″ CMOS sensor, the Mini 3 Pro takes the lead in image quality. It boasts 48 effective megapixels compared to the Mini 3’s 12 megapixels. This higher resolution allows for more detailed images and greater flexibility in post-processing, especially when cropping.
In terms of video capabilities, both drones can shoot 4K footage, but the Mini 3 Pro offers 4K/60fps, while the Mini 3 is limited to 4K/30fps. The Pro also has a higher maximum video bitrate of 150 Mbps compared to the Mini 3’s 100 Mbps, resulting in better video quality, especially in high-motion scenes.
Both drones support the D-Cinelike color profile, which is excellent for users who prefer to color grade their footage in post-production. This flat color profile provides more flexibility in adjusting colors and tones during editing.
Flight Performance: When it comes to flight performance, both drones are impressive for their size. The standard battery provides up to 38 minutes of flight time for the Mini 3 and 34 minutes for the Mini 3 Pro. However, with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus, these times extend to 51 and 47 minutes respectively, offering some of the longest flight times in the compact drone market.
Both drones can resist winds up to 10.7 m/s, making them suitable for flying in various conditions. However, the Mini 3 Pro has an edge in stability and precision flying due to its advanced obstacle avoidance system and APAS 4.0 (Advanced Pilot Assistance System).
Intelligent Features: This is where the Mini 3 Pro really shines. While both drones offer QuickShots for easy cinematic footage, the Pro version includes additional intelligent flight modes like MasterShots and Hyperlapse. These features allow for more creative and professional-looking shots with minimal pilot input.
The standout feature of the Mini 3 Pro is ActiveTrack 4.0. This advanced tracking system allows the drone to follow subjects automatically, making it invaluable for solo creators or for capturing dynamic scenes. The standard Mini 3 lacks this feature, which could be a dealbreaker for some users.
Obstacle Avoidance and Safety: Safety is a crucial consideration for any drone pilot, and here the Mini 3 Pro takes a significant lead. It features a tri-directional obstacle sensing system (forward, backward, and downward), while the Mini 3 only has downward sensors. This makes the Pro version much more suitable for flying in complex environments or for less experienced pilots.
The APAS 4.0 system on the Mini 3 Pro further enhances its safety features. This system can automatically plan routes around obstacles, allowing for smoother and safer flights, especially in challenging environments.
Transmission System: The Mini 3 Pro uses DJI’s O3 transmission system, an upgrade from the O2 system found in the Mini 3. This results in a longer maximum transmission distance (12 km vs 10 km) and a more stable connection between the drone and the controller. For pilots who often fly in areas with potential signal interference, this could be a significant advantage.
Controller Options: Both drones are compatible with the DJI RC-N1 controller, which requires a smartphone to display the camera feed. However, the Mini 3 Pro has the added advantage of being compatible with the DJI RC, a controller with a built-in screen. This eliminates the need to use your smartphone and provides a more streamlined, purpose-built control experience.
Price Consideration: It’s important to note that the additional features of the Mini 3 Pro come at a higher price point. The standard Mini 3 is more budget-friendly, making it an attractive option for beginners or casual users who may not need all the advanced features of the Pro version.
FAQs About the DJI Mini 3 vs Mini 3 Pro
How does the DJI Mini 3’s performance change in high-altitude environments compared to the Mini 3 Pro?
Both drones perform similarly at high altitudes, but the Mini 3 Pro’s advanced obstacle avoidance system may provide a slight advantage in thin air conditions. Always check local regulations for maximum flight altitudes.
Can the DJI Mini 3 or Mini 3 Pro be used for infrared or thermal imaging?
Neither drone has built-in infrared or thermal imaging capabilities. For such applications, consider DJI’s enterprise-level drones like the Mavic 2 Enterprise Advanced.
How do the DJI Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro handle rapid temperature changes during flight?
Both drones are designed to operate in a wide temperature range (-10°C to 40°C). The Mini 3 Pro’s more advanced systems might offer slightly better performance in rapidly changing conditions, but both are generally reliable.
Is it possible to use third-party propellers on the DJI Mini 3 or Mini 3 Pro?
While technically possible, it’s not recommended. Using non-DJI propellers may affect flight performance and safety, and could void your warranty. Always use official DJI accessories.
How do the Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro perform in light rain or high humidity?
Neither drone is water-resistant. Avoid flying in any precipitation. In high humidity, both perform well, but ensure thorough drying after use to prevent internal condensation.
Can the DJI Mini 3 or Mini 3 Pro be used for photogrammetry or 3D mapping?
While not specifically designed for these tasks, both can be used for basic photogrammetry. The Mini 3 Pro’s higher resolution and advanced flight modes make it more suitable for this purpose.
How do the gimbal systems of the Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro differ in terms of durability?
Both use similar 3-axis gimbals, but the Mini 3 Pro’s gimbal might be slightly more robust due to its ability to rotate for vertical shooting. However, treat both with equal care to ensure longevity.
Is it possible to use the DJI Mini 3 or Mini 3 Pro for indoor inspections in large spaces?
Yes, but the Mini 3 Pro is better suited due to its obstacle avoidance system. For indoor use, always enable altitude limits and fly with caution, especially in areas with potential magnetic interference.
How do the Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro handle sudden wind gusts during automated flight modes?
Both drones have wind resistance up to 10.7 m/s. However, the Mini 3 Pro’s APAS 4.0 system provides better handling in gusty conditions during automated flights.
Can the DJI Mini 3 or Mini 3 Pro be used for wildlife observation without causing disturbance?
Both can be used, but approach with caution. The Mini 3 Pro’s zoom capabilities and quieter operation (in some flight modes) make it slightly better suited. Always prioritize animal welfare and follow local regulations regarding wildlife and drone use.
Conclusion
Both the DJI Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro are excellent drones that offer impressive capabilities in incredibly compact packages. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to your specific needs and budget.
The DJI Mini 3 is an excellent choice for beginners or casual users who want a high-quality, portable drone without breaking the bank. It offers good image quality, impressive flight time, and enough features to capture stunning aerial footage.
If budget is not a constraint and you value having the most advanced features in a compact drone, the Mini 3 Pro is the way to go. Its capabilities rival those of much larger and more expensive drones, all in a sub-250g package.