DJI Mini 2 Camera
There is no doubt that one of the main reasons for the popularity of drones is their cameras. They allow you to see and experience the world from a unique perspective and see places that you may not have otherwise seen.
With DJI Mini 2, you get access to a professional flying camera that allows you to record video footage in 4k at 30fps with a recording speed of 100Mbps. The camera has a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor with an 83° FOV and has an aperture of f/2.8.
Images are captured in 12MP in both JPEG and RAW and it has an auto exposure bracketing feature that will allow you to enhance your photos with a higher dynamic range of colours in post-processing. The camera also allows you to capture three types of panorama photography and you can fit ND filters over the lens to get the exact exposure levels you want.
As the drone comes with DJI’s advanced transmission technology, the live video feed to your smartphone is transmitted in 720p at 30fps.
The camera also comes with a digital zoom feature, this is not as good as having an optical zoom feature, but still a decent feature to have if you want to get closer to a subject matter without moving your drone. It has 2* zoom capability for 4k/2.7k and 4*zoom for 1080p.
DJI Mini 2 – Other Features
Like the Mavic Mini, the DJI Mini 2 comes with a feature called QuickShots, this is a set of pre-programmed flight modes that will allow you to capture short cinematic videos completely hands-free. While Mavic Mini came with 4 QuickShots, the Mini 2 comes with 5, they are Boomerang, Dronie, Helix, Rocket, and Circle.
The drone also comes with an automatic return to home feature, and has three flight modes which includes Normal, Sports and Cine mode. In the Sports mode, the controls are a little more sensitive and the drone can reach its maximum speed of 57kph. The drone has a level 5 wind resistance, which means it can hold up in winds of up to 22mps, although, if you are an absolute beginner, I would advise you not to fly in any kind of windy conditions.
Flight Performance
Like most advanced drones, flying the DJI Mini is very easy, it helps that there is a button for one-click take-off/landing which makes it suitable for beginners. Despite its small size and weight the drone even holds up relatively well in mildly windy conditions and it doesn’t affect the overall video or photo quality thanks to the 3-axis gimbal. In its sports mode, the drone can reach a maximum speed of 37 mph, which is pretty fast for a non-racing drone. The FPV feed is clear (as long as you fly in good weather conditions) and the QuickShot mode is fun to use and the return to home function is accurate.
Final Thoughts
Overall, this is an excellent upgrade to the original Mavic Mini, the DJI Mini 2 drone comes with some excellent features that includes a 4K camera, panorama photography and 31 minutes of flight time. If you are looking to get into drone photography the Mini 2 makes a good starting point. If you want other options at a similar price range, check out my list of the best drones under $500.
FAQ About The DJI Mini 2
Do you have to register the DJI Mini 2?
This will depend on where you live, in the USA, the FAA does not require anyone to register recreational drones that weigh less than 250g. However, there is a new test from the FAA called The Recreational UAS Safety Test (TRUST) that all recreational drone pilots must take.
If you live in the UK, you will need to register the DJI Mini, this is done by obtaining an Operator ID and you will also need to obtain a Flyer ID which will require you to pass an online test. More information can be found on the CAA website.
Is the Mini 2 worth it?
People will have different views, however, I personally believe that the DJI Mini 2 is worth its price. It is the best drone in its price range and a very good drone for beginners and a good cheap drone for photography. If you travel around a lot, the Mini is definitely worth it, it’s compact, lightweight and easy to carry around.
Is the DJI Mini 2 waterproof?
No, like all consumer drones, the DJI Mini 2 is not waterproof, although, you may have seen people flying this in light rain, it is advised that you don’t do this as it may damage your drone.
Does the DJI Mini 2 have obstacle avoidance?
No, the Mini 2 does not come with an obstacle avoidance system, although its successor, the Mini 3 Pro does.
Does the DJI Mini 2 have follow me?
This is a yes and no answer, DJI have not included follow me mode or any other autonomous flight modes within the DJI Fly app.
However, you can access follow me mode and other autonomous flight modes for the Mini 2 via the Litchi app. This is a paid app and is available for both Android and iOS devices and it is a very good alternative to the DJI Fly app.
Is the Mini 2 a good beginner drone?
Yes, it absolutely is a very good beginner friendly drone, I believe it is the best drone for beginners. It’s easy to operate and comes with lots of features that will enhance your flying experience and comes with a very good HD camera.
How high can I fly the Mini 2?
Legally, you can fly up to 400 feet, although the drone can fly a lot higher.