DJI Mini 2 vs Mini SE: The Ultimate Comparison for 2025

With the release of the new DJI Mini SE, drone fans have a new choice to consider. But how does the Mini SE compare to the earlier DJI Mini 2, which many people love? In this article, I’ll explain the main differences between these two mini drones, upgrades, and features, making it easier to choose which one better fits your needs and budget.

The DJI Mini SE vs DJI Mini 2 are small, lightweight drones made for beginners and casual users, but they differ in performance and features. Drones are becoming more popular among hobbyists and professionals because they provide a fun way to explore and capture stunning views from the sky. However, not all drones are the same, and choosing the right one can be challenging.

In this article, I’ll also compare Dji Mini se vs Mini 2, to see how they differ in features, specs, and price.

If you’re just starting out or already experienced in flying drones, this guide will help you figure out if the DJI Mini 2 or Dji Mini SE is the right choice for you. Let’s dive in and explore!

If you read about the latest version like mini 3 vs mini pro.

Price

Before diving into the specs, let’s establish some ground rules for what makes a drone ideal for you. When considering the Mini 2 vs. Mini SE, it’s essential to ask yourself:

1. What will you primarily use the drone for?
   • If you’re using it for aerial photography or security, image quality and video stabilization will be important factors.
   • For casual, recreational use or simple home monitoring, ease of control and portability might matter more.
2. What is your budget?
   • Both drones are considered affordable, but their price differences can influence your decision depending on the features you’re willing to compromise.
3. How important is portability and ease of use?
   • Both the Mini 2 and Mini SE are lightweight, but their overall performance and additional features might affect how suitable they are for beginners or experienced users.

DJI Mini SE vs DJI Mini 2: Size and Weight

The Mini 2 vs. Mini Se’s size and weight differences are small but important, especially for carrying and using drones.

Size

• DJI Mini SE: The Mini SE is 138×81×58 mm (when folded) and 245×289×56 mm (when unfolded with propellers).
• DJI Mini 2: The Mini 2 has the same size: 138×81×58 mm (when folded) and 245×289×56 mm (when unfolded with propellers).

Both drones are the same size, making them very small and easy to carry. They fit into small bags or cases, which is great for people who want to fly drones while traveling.

Weight

• DJI Mini SE: Weighs about 242 grams, which is under the 250g limit set by many countries for drone rules.
• DJI Mini 2: Slightly heavier at 249 grams, but it is also under the same 250g limit.

The Mini SE is a bit lighter than the Mini 2, but the difference is very small. Most people won’t notice it.

Pros and Cons of DJI Mini 2 vs DJI Mini SE

To give you a snapshot of each drone’s advantages and drawbacks, here’s a quick breakdown:

DJI Mini 2

Pros:

• 4K video recording: Crystal clear image quality, ideal for both photography and security purposes.
• Ocusync 2.0: Provides better connection and extended range of up to 10km.
• Improved wind resistance: Can handle level 5 winds, making it perfect for outdoor use.
• GPS Precise Hovering: Greater accuracy in maintaining position, useful for home surveillance.

Cons:

• Higher price: Comes with a noticeable price hike compared to the Mini SE.
• No obstacle avoidance: Still lacks advanced sensors seen in higher-end drones.

DJI Mini SE

Pros:

• Affordable price: One of the most budget-friendly drones in the DJI lineup.
• Same design and weight as Mini 2, meaning it’s also ultra-portable and easy to transport.
• 2.7K video resolution: Still provides decent quality for casual use or home surveillance.
• Good flight time: Similar battery performance, offering up to 30 minutes of flight time.

Cons:

• Limited video resolution: Does not offer 4K video, which may not suffice for professional-grade footage.
• Lesser wind resistance: Slightly less stable in windy conditions than the Mini 2.
• Shorter transmission range: Limited to around 4km, which might be restricting for larger properties.

DJI Mini SE vs Mini 2: Speed & maneuverability

	DJI Mini 2	DJI Mini SE
Horizontal Speed	16 m/s	13 m/s
Ascent Speed	5 m/s	4 m/s
Descent Speed	3.5 m/s	3 m/s
Maximum wind resistance	10.5 m/s	10.5 m/s

DJI Mini SE vs DJI Mini 2 propeller

The DJI Mini SE and DJI Mini 2 both feature similar propellers, but there are slight differences in design and performance.

1. Size and Design: The propellers of the DJI Mini SE and Mini 2 are nearly identical in terms of size and shape. Both use 3-blade propellers that help provide efficient lift and stability during flight.
2. Material: Both models use strong plastic material for their propellers, designed to resist effects while keeping weight minimal.
3. Performance: While both drones use similar propellers, the performance might vary slightly due to differences in the motors and overall design of the drones. The DJI Mini 2’s motor system is slightly more powerful than the Mini SE, allowing the Mini 2 to handle stronger winds and achieve higher speeds. This difference in power may also translate into subtle differences in how each drone’s propellers perform.
4. Compatibility: Propellers for both drones are generally compatible, but it’s always a good idea to use the exact propellers designed for each model to ensure optimal flight performance and safety.

Gimbal Technology

The difference between DJI Mini SE and Mini 2 in gamble technology, both drones have a 3-axis gimbal, but the DJI Mini 2 has a better gimbal system, making it more stable and smoother for video, especially in windier conditions. The DJI Mini SE is good but doesn’t perform as well as the Mini 2 in some situations. The Dji mini 2 vs mini se both have gimbals, but there are some differences in how they perform. 

DJI Mini SE:

The DJI Mini SE has a 3-axis mechanical gimbal that helps keep the camera steady while flying. It works well for normal flights but may not handle very windy conditions as well as the Mini 2. The gimbal’s control is a bit simpler and not as smooth as the Mini 2.

DJI Mini 2:

The DJI Mini 2 also comes with a 3-axis mechanical gimbal, but it provides better stabilization and smoother footage. The gimbal on the Mini 2 is more advanced, making the camera steadier even in light wind or when turning quickly.

Key Differences:

1. Gimbal Stability: The Mini 2’s gimbal works better in windy conditions and gives smoother footage.
2. Footage Smoothness: The Mini 2 gives smoother video because of its improved gimbal.

Design

Though they are two different products, the DJI Mini 2 and DJI Mini SE have a similar design characterized by being compact, sleek, and foldable for portability and operation simplicity. The two drones each weigh less than 249 grams thus doing away with the need for registration in various areas plus the stable flight that comes with the lightness of the drone’s body. Their design is minimalistic, reducing air resistance hence making them good for both inside and outside usage.

Accessory Support

Shared accessory support is one of the main advantages of DJI Mini 2 and Mini SE. Users can easily upgrade or enhance their flying experience with a wide range of DJI and third-party accessories that can be used on both drones without having to buy any additional models separately. They are equipped with key accessories like Intelligent Flight Batteries that provide extended flight time, the Two-Way Charging Hub for charging multiple batteries at once, and Propeller Guards for added safety during indoor flights which function well with these two drones. This means that the Mini SE was released after the Mini 2 but still allows users from either model to benefit from such additions; thus making it more versatile and pocket-friendly in terms of purchasing accessories.

Battery Life

However, a minute may be quite beneficial to professionals or those using drones for vast observation. The battery lifespan is usually a major worry for people who use drones, especially when they are used in activities such as photography that demand long distances or home security. Conversely, both drones give an impressive flying time of roughly thirty minutes. The Mini 2 has a maximum flight time of 31 minutes whereas it’s 30 minutes for Mini SE despite slight differences in flight duration. In most cases, this difference does not matter to many users.

DJI Mini 2 vs Mini SE: Head to Head Comparison

Let’s dive into a more detailed comparison of the specs, so you can easily see how the DJI Mini 2 vs Mini SE specs measure up.

Feature	DJI Mini 2	DJI Mini SE
Weight	249g	249g
Video Resolution	4K (3840 x 2160) at 30fps	2.7K (2720 x 1530) at 30fps
Camera Sensor	1/2.3-inch CMOS	1/2.3-inch CMOS
Max Bitrate	100 Mbps	40 Mbps
Transmission Range	10 km (Ocusync 2.0)	4 km (Enhanced Wi-Fi)
Flight Time	31 minutes	30 minutes
Wind Resistance	Level 5	Level 4
GPS	Yes	Yes
Smart Features	QuickShots, Panorama, GPS precise hovering	QuickShots
Price	Higher ($449)	More Affordable ($299)
Folded size	138 x 81 x 58mm	138 x 81 x 58mm
Diagonal span	213mm	213mm
Sensors	Downward	Downward

Image And Video Resolution

The DJI mini 2 vs DJI mini se are both equipped with a 12 MP camera, offering similar photo resolution. Both drones can capture clear and detailed images, with a maximum photo size of 4000 x 3000 pixels. However, when it comes to video quality, there is a noticeable difference between the two models.

Mini SE 2 Camera 

The DJI Mini SE is capable of recording videos in 2.7K resolution at 30fps, which is ideal for most recreational users. While this resolution offers decent clarity for casual video recording, it is not as sharp as the 4K resolution found in higher-end drones. The 2.7K video resolution is still quite good for general use but may lack the level of detail needed for professional-grade footage.

Mini 2 Camera 

On the other hand, the DJI Mini 2 takes video quality to the next level with the ability to record in 4K resolution at 30fps. This higher resolution allows for much sharper and more detailed videos, making it the better option for users who want to create high-quality content. The 4K video capability of the Mini 2 provides more flexibility, especially for those who want to crop or zoom into their footage without losing significant detail. Both drones share the same camera resolution for still images, but the DJI Mini 2 outshines the Mini SE with its superior 4K video resolution, offering a more professional video recording experience.

Flight Range

The flight range of the Dji Mini 2 vs Mini se specs differs slightly, with the Mini 2 offering a better range.

• DJI Mini SE: The maximum flight range of the Mini SE is 4 km (2.5 miles) when flying in optimal conditions (FCC mode, and no interference).
• DJI Mini 2: The Mini 2, on the other hand, has an improved range of 10 km (6.2 miles) under similar conditions.

The primary reason for the difference is the Mini 2’s enhanced transmission technology, which supports the OcuSync 2.0 system, while the Mini SE uses the older Wi-Fi transmission system. This gives the Mini 2 a more stable and extended connection, especially in areas with more interference. The DJI Mini 2 has a significantly better flight range compared to the DJI Mini SE.

Flight Speed

The drone dji Mini 2 vs Mini Se have similar flight speeds, but there are some key differences.

• DJI Mini SE: The maximum flight speed is 13 m/s (46.8 km/h or 29 mph) in sport mode.
• DJI Mini 2: The maximum flight speed is 16 m/s (57.6 km/h or 35.8 mph) in sport mode.

The DJI Mini 2 is a bit quicker, with a higher top speed than the Mini SE, making it better for people who want faster flights in lively conditions. However, both drones are built to be steady and simple to use, making them great for casual users and beginners.

Max Altitude And Wind Resistance

When comparing the DJI Mini SE and DJI Mini 2, one of the key differences is in their max altitude and wind resistance capabilities.

1. Max Altitude:
   • DJI Mini SE: The maximum altitude for the Mini SE is 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) above sea level, which is sufficient for most recreational flights but might be limited in higher-altitude areas.
   • DJI Mini 2: The Mini 2 also has a maximum altitude of 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) above sea level, similar to the Mini SE. Both drones are capable of reaching this altitude, but flight restrictions may apply depending on the local regulations and geographic location.
2. Wind Resistance:
   • DJI Mini SE: The Mini SE is rated for wind resistance of up to level 5 (about 37.8 km/h or 23.5 mph). While it can handle moderate wind conditions, strong gusts may impact its stability.
   • DJI Mini 2: The Mini 2 offers better wind resistance, rated for wind speeds of up to level 5 (about 39 km/h or 24 mph). This makes it slightly more resilient in windier conditions compared to the Mini SE.

Flight Time

The DJI Mini SE and DJI Mini 2 both offer impressive flight times, but there is a slight difference between them:

• DJI Mini SE: Offers up to 30 minutes of flight time under ideal conditions.
• DJI Mini 2: Provides a slightly longer flight time of up to 31 minutes under ideal conditions.

While the difference is just 1 minute, the Mini 2 has a slight edge in battery life, giving it a bit more time for capturing photos and videos. However, both drones provide solid flight times for their compact size, making them great options for enjoyable drone enthusiasts.

Safety Features

The DJI Mini SE and DJI Mini 2 are both excellent entry-level drones, but when it comes to safety features, there are some differences between the two models:

1. GPS & Glonass:
   • DJI Mini SE: It comes with basic GPS support but does not have Glonass, limiting its positioning accuracy compared to the Mini 2.
   • DJI Mini 2: The Mini 2 offers both GPS and GLONASS support, providing more accurate and reliable positioning for better flight stability, especially in areas with weak satellite signals.
2. Obstacle Avoidance:
   • DJI Mini SE: The Mini SE lacks any obstacle sensors, meaning it doesn’t have front, rear, or downward obstacle detection.
   • DJI Mini 2: The Mini 2 also lacks obstacle avoidance sensors, but it comes with advanced flight features that can help the pilot avoid obstacles, such as Return to Home (RTH) and intelligent flight modes.
3. Return to Home (RTH):
   • DJI Mini SE: The Mini SE features standard Return to Home functionality, which triggers when the drone’s battery is low or when the drone loses signal, automatically returning the drone to its takeoff point.
   • DJI Mini 2: Like the Mini SE, the Mini 2 includes Return to Home, but its RTH function is more reliable due to its enhanced GPS and signal strength, ensuring a safer flight experience.
4. Battery Safety:
   • DJI Mini SE: The battery management system is standard, but it doesn’t include the added smart battery features seen in higher-end models.
   • DJI Mini 2: The Mini 2 has an improved battery management system with better safety features, including monitoring for overcharging, discharging, and overheating to protect the battery and extend its life.

Direct Download And Instant Editing

The DJI Mini SE and DJI Mini 2 are both compact and budget-friendly drones that cater to beginners and casual drone enthusiasts. Here’s a comparison focusing on Direct Download and Instant Editing features:

DJI Mini SE:

• Direct Download: The DJI Mini SE supports quick downloads via its companion DJI Fly app. However, it does not have built-in Wi-Fi for ultra-fast file transfer like more advanced models. You will typically need to remove the microSD card and transfer footage manually or use a mobile device to connect via USB for file access.
• Instant Editing: While the Mini SE doesn’t have advanced editing features, the DJI Fly app provides some basic editing tools for quick video enhancements, but it’s more limited compared to the Mini 2.

DJI Mini 2:

• Direct Download: The Mini 2 offers faster downloads through Wi-Fi, allowing for a more seamless and quicker transfer of media files from the drone to your mobile device. This feature makes it easier for users to directly download their footage without the need to remove the SD card.
• Instant Editing: The Mini 2 has more advanced editing features within the DJI Fly app, including automatic editing templates that provide users with quick and creative ways to enhance their videos. These options are more advanced than those on the Mini SE, allowing users to create polished content on the fly.

QuickShot Modes

The DJI Mini SE and DJI Mini 2 both offer QuickShot modes, which are pre-programmed flight modes that make it easier for users to capture stunning cinematic footage without needing advanced piloting skills. However, there are some key differences between the two models in terms of the QuickShot features.

Transmission Range: Ocusync 2.0 vs. Enhanced Wi-Fi

The Ocusync 2.0 system used by Mini 2 is a highly advanced form of communication as compared to the Enhanced Wi-Fi system found in Mini SE. This ensures that there is less interference, especially in areas with high absorption of wireless signals thus allowing one to have a stable connection even when they are 10 kilometers away from the point of transmission. 

However, if you have a bigger piece of land,4km may be limiting for your needs. For homeowners who use drones for security, longer transmission distances provided by the Mini 2 could prove to be important since it enables real-time video feed across wide spaces giving them satisfaction that their houses cannot be left without supervision from any angle possible.

Drone Features: Smart Integration and GPS

While the Mini SE offers basic features like QuickShots (automated video capture modes), the Mini 2 takes it a step further with additional smart features such as Panorama mode and GPS precise hovering. The GPS feature on the Mini 2 allows for much more accurate positioning, which is particularly useful for maintaining a steady view during home security surveillance.

As well as, the Mini 2 produced greater breezy resistance which means it’s much more stable even under harsher climates when compared to level four wind-resistant Mini SE. This may not matter much to those living in quieter places, but if you frequently fly your drone outdoors or if your backyard is always windy then buying Mini 2 would make more sense for yourself

Weather Condition 

The DJI Mini 2 boasts a higher max altitude than the Mini SE, with the ability to take off from 4,000 meters above sea level, compared to the 3,000 meters for the Mini SE. This makes the Mini 2 a better option for users flying in higher-altitude locations, such as mountainous areas. Despite this, the Mini SE performs impressively when it comes to wind resistance, matching the Mini 2’s ability to withstand Level 5 winds of up to 37.8 km/h. This means that both drones can handle challenging weather conditions, whether you’re flying on a windy beach or in higher, gusty areas. Their shared wind resistance ensures stable performance, giving homeowners peace of mind when using these drones for security or aerial surveillance in diverse environments.

DJI Mini SE QuickShot Modes:

• Dronie: The drone flies backward and upward, keeping the subject in the frame.
• Circle: The Mini SE circles the subject while keeping it in focus.
• Helix: The drone moves upwards in a spiral motion around the subject.
• Rocket: The drone flies straight upward with the camera pointing downward.

The DJI Mini SE, however, lacks Boomerang and Asteroid QuickShot modes, which are available in the DJI Mini 2.

DJI Mini 2 QuickShot Modes:

• Dronie: Similar to the Mini SE, this mode flies the drone backward and upward.
• Circle: The drone flies in a circular motion around the subject.
• Helix: The drone spirals upward around the subject.
• Rocket: The drone flies straight up with the camera facing downward.
• Boomerang: The drone flies in an outward loop, moving away from the subject and then returning in a curved path, completing the loop.
• Asteroid: The drone creates a dramatic effect where it begins with a wide shot of the subject, zooms in, and then zooms out to create an ‘asteroid’ effect, showing a more cinematic transformation.

Remote Control

The DJI Mini SE and DJI Mini 2 come with different remote controllers, each offering specific features.

DJI Mini SE Remote Control:

• Design: The remote control for the Mini SE is similar to the one used with the DJI Mavic Mini. It has a simple, compact design, which is lightweight and easy to carry.
• Range: The Mini SE’s remote offers a maximum range of up to 4 km (2.5 miles) using the enhanced Wi-Fi transmission system.
• Control: It supports a basic control setup with physical buttons and a smartphone holder. The smartphone connects via Wi-Fi.
• Compatibility: The remote is only compatible with the Mini SE and works best with devices running the DJI Fly app.

DJI Mini 2 Remote Control:

• Design: The Mini 2 remote is slightly upgraded compared to the Mini SE. It’s a bit larger but still very compact. It uses a more refined design with ergonomic grips for a better hold.
• Range: The Mini 2 remote offers a much better range of up to 10 km (6.2 miles), thanks to the OcuSync 2.0 transmission technology, which provides a stronger and more stable signal compared to Wi-Fi.
• Control: The Mini 2 remote features physical buttons for more precise control, along with a dedicated dial for controlling the camera angle. The connection to your smartphone is via a 2.4 GHz frequency, providing a more stable connection.
• Compatibility: The Mini 2 remote is designed specifically for the Mini 2 and is not compatible with the Mini SE.

Key Differences:

• Transmission Technology: The Mini 2 uses OcuSync 2.0, which provides a better range and stronger signal compared to the Wi-Fi system of the Mini SE.
• Range: The Mini 2 has a much longer range (10 km) than the Mini SE (4 km).
• Design and Comfort: The Mini 2’s remote is slightly more comfortable to hold for extended periods due to better ergonomics.

Choosing Between The Mini SE Vs. Mini 2

Buy the DJI Mini SE if:

• You’re on a budget: The Mini SE offers a great balance of price and performance, making it an excellent choice for those who want a quality drone without breaking the bank.
• You’re a beginner: With its simple controls and lightweight design, the Mini SE is ideal for new drone users looking to get into aerial photography or videography.
• You prioritize portability: The Mini SE is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around for travel or casual use.
• You don’t need 4K video: While the Mini SE offers 2.7K video, it’s still more than sufficient for casual filming and drone enthusiasts who don’t require ultra-high-definition footage.
• You want a reliable, easy to fly drone: With stable flight capabilities and intuitive controls, the Mini SE provides a smooth and enjoyable flying experience.

Buy the DJI Mini 2 if:

• You want better camera quality: The Mini 2 offers 4K video recording, delivering higher resolution footage, which is great for those who want sharper images and videos.
• You want more flight time: With a longer battery life (up to 31 minutes), the Mini 2 allows for more extended flights compared to the Mini SE.
• You need more advanced features: The Mini 2 supports more powerful transmission technology (OcuSync 2.0), offering better signal range and stability, especially in more remote areas.
• You’re willing to spend a bit more for extra features: While slightly more expensive than the Mini SE, the Mini 2’s enhanced features justify the higher price if you’re looking for improved performance and video quality.

Don’t buy it if…

You Need 4K Video Quality: If you’re looking for 4K video capabilities, the Mini SE might disappoint you. It offers 2.7K video, while the Mini 2 steps it up to 4K. If ultra-high-definition footage is crucial for your needs, the Mini SE isn’t the right choice.

You Prefer Advanced Features: The Mini 2 comes with more advanced features, including better flight performance, a more stable connection with the remote controller, and a longer range. If you need these advanced capabilities, the Mini SE may feel limiting.

You’re Into High-Quality Photography: The Mini 2 has a more powerful camera with better low-light performance, making it a better option for those who want to take high-quality photos. The Mini SE’s camera, though still good, doesn’t offer the same image quality in challenging lighting conditions.

You Expect More Battery Life: Although both drones have decent flight times, the Mini 2 provides slightly better battery life, thanks to its more efficient design. If you’re planning to use the drone for long durations without constant recharging, the Mini 2 is a more reliable choice.

You Need More Control Options: The Mini 2 offers more control over camera settings and flight modes, which can be essential for those who want to fine-tune their drone experience. The Mini SE has fewer control options, which may limit your creative freedom.

Conclusion: Which Drone Is Right for You?

After assessing the specifications of both the DJI Mini 2 and Mini SE, it is apparent that each drone has advantages as well as weaknesses. A DJI Mini SE was developed especially for amateurs who need an economical, easy-to-use device for simple photographs or home surveillance. Its lightweight structure and low price tag make it an excellent choice considering the features on offer such as 2.7K videography.

Conversely, superior 4K video quality coupled with longer transmission distances and better wind resistance make DJI Mini 2 the best investment option if you want to future-proof your purchase regardless of whether you are an upcoming content creator or a homeowner looking for dependable aerial surveillance. You will have a broader quality range when using the Mini 2 than you might when using its less powerful sibling.

In case you’re confused about which one to go with I would suggest checking out both models at any electronics retail store around your area or you could watch various tutorial videos online and read some reviews to have an idea of how they perform in reality rather than just reviewing their features. And for more details about drones.