DJI has officially lifted the veil on its new sub-250g ultra-light drone, the Mavic Mini. The Mavic Mini is the smallest and lightest drone DJI has made to date, but despite its compact size, DJI has managed to pack quite a few features found in its more robust drones, such as the Mavic Air and Mavic Pro.
Inside, it features a 12-megapixel 1/2. 3-inch sensor that can record 2. 7K video at 30fps and 1080p video at 60 frames per second (fps). The camera module is mounted on a three-axis that sits centered beneath the main frame of the drone.
To coincide with the release of the Mavic Mini, the DJI Fly app has received an update that adds new features, fly modes and tutorials to help get first-time operators off the ground. In DJI’s own words, ‘New pilots can choose to fly in Position (P) mode for basic operation, more experienced pilots can unlock more capabilities in Sport (S) mode, and content creators can choose CineSmooth (C) mode to lengthen braking time for smoother shots and more cinematic footage. ’
DJI has also added QuickShots, which are pre-programmed flight maneuvers that can b e performed with the tap of a button. The modes are defined as follows:
Rocket - Mavic Mini flies straight up into the air with the camera pointing downward following your subject. Set a height limit of 40, 60, 80, 100, or 120 feet.
Circle - Mavic Mini will circle around your subject at a constant altitude and distance.
Dronie - Mavic Mini flies backward and upward, with the camera tracking your subject. Set a height limit of 40, 60, 80, 100, or 120 feet.
Helix - Mavic Mini flies upward and away, spiraling around your subject. Set a height limit of 40, 60, 80, 100, or 120 feet.
DJI claims the Mavic Mini will offer up to 30 minutes of flight time. It features onboard Wi-Fi and GPS for transmitting video to the included controller and keeping tabs on where the drone is at all times. DJI notes the Wi-Fi system has a maximum range of 4km (2. 5 miles) when unobstructed and not in a geo-locked area.
As previously mentioned, the Mavic Mini weighs just 249g (0. 55lbs). The weight of Mavic Mini is significant because it falls below the 250g limit imposed by the United States’ Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that requires any drone heavier than 250g (0. 55lbs) and less than 25KG (55lbs) be registered. By shrinking the weight of the Mavic Mini while retaining many of the technologies found in its heavier drones, DJI has opened up a new realm of possibilities for would-be drone operators who want a more compact drone that can be flown without registering it through the FAA.
In addition to the drone and controller, DJI has made a new collection of accessories specific to the Mavic Mini. These include:
360-degree Propeller Guard: Provides a 360° guard for added safety.
Charging Base: Charge and display Mavic Mini with this unique, illuminated station.
Propeller Holder: Travel easier with Mavic Mini with the propeller holder that locks the props into place.
DIY Creative Kit: Personalize your Mavic Mini with custom stickers or draw your own design.
Snap Adapter: Attach a toy building brick or a mini LED display to Mavic Mini to write custom messages.
The Mavic Mini is available starting today on DJI’s online store for $399. The Mavic Mini Fly More Combo — which includes a dedicated carrying case, the 360-degree propeller guard, the charging base, and three extra batteries — is available for $499. You can also check out our hands-on with the DJI Mavic Mini.
. dpreview.com2019-10-31 16:00
