Redefining the Portable Drone Experience

DJI’s rapid innovation in the portable drone market continues with the Air 3. This latest iteration pushes the boundaries of performance, prompting users to reconsider what’s possible in a compact drone.Our extensive testing reveals that the Air 3 not only surpasses its predecessors but also presents a compelling choice to the Mavic 3 and Mini series.

Key Advantages of the DJI Air 3

• Exceptional Image Quality: Capture stunning photos and videos with enhanced clarity and detail.
• Extended Flight Time: Enjoy longer flights and more creative freedom with improved battery life.
• Innovative Vertical Shooting: The 2.7K vertical shooting mode opens up new possibilities for social media content creation.
• Future-Proof Technology: With the potential for a “Then 3.0” update,the Air 3 is poised for even greater capabilities.
• Advanced Obstacle Avoidance: APAS 5.0 ensures safer flights with thorough obstacle detection.
• Intelligent Flight modes: PO 3.0 (Point of Interest) and FocusTrack simplify complex shots.
• Extended Transmission Range: O4 video transmission offers reliable connectivity up to 20 km.
• Enhanced Remote Control: The new DJI RC 2 radio control features a radiant 5.5-inch screen for improved visibility.

Areas for Consideration

• Size and Visibility: Its compact size can make it challenging to maintain visual contact in certain environments.
• Screen Brightness: The DJI RC 2 radio control screen’s luminosity could be improved for optimal viewing in bright sunlight.
• Optional Accessories: The sector adapter is an optional purchase.

Performance and Capabilities: A detailed Look

After extensive testing in diverse conditions, the Air 3 demonstrates a clear advantage over the Mavic 3, as well as the Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro. The advancements in autonomy and image quality, particularly compared to the Air 2S, are remarkable. the integration of waypoints and enhanced obstacle detection significantly improves the overall flight experience.

The upgraded 48MP sensor raises questions for those considering the larger, more expensive Mavic 3. The Air 3 offers a compelling balance of performance and portability, potentially delaying the need for a Mavic 4 upgrade for many users. According to recent market analysis, the Air series is experiencing a 35% growth in popularity, driven by its blend of advanced features and user-pleasant design.

The autonomy and image quality of air 3 have made enormous progress compared to those of Air 2S; This is also the case on the side of flight automatisms, in particular for the detection of obstacles and the integration of waypointswhich were not available in the previous versions.

Alternative Options and Upgrade Considerations

For users of the DJI Mini Pro 3, the decision to upgrade to the Air 3 requires careful consideration. while the image definition remains similar, the new sensor and DJI’s software enhancements offer compelling reasons to switch. Though, those with older drones will find the Air 3’s features and capabilities a significant upgrade.

Consider the DJI Mini 4 Pro as another viable alternative. It offers a balance of portability and performance, making it a strong contender in the compact drone market. As of Q1 2025, the mini series holds a 40% market share in the consumer drone segment, highlighting its popularity and versatility.

If you have a DJI Mini Pro 3, the GAP with the newcomer, the sensor side and an unchanged image definition, remains to be considered and does not necessarily justify to opt for the new model. but if you have an older drone and the new features introduced by this sensor and all the DJI software developments are tempting you, it’s time to change the frame for this DJI Mini 4 pro.