If you are a follower of the DJI brand’s history and its various models, you certainly come across two incredible mini drones which are termed the DJI Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro. The drones are light and small in size yet powerful giving them so many amazing features that are suitable for any lover of drones whether a beginner or a professional. Now the question is which one do you prefer. Should I buy the DJI Mini 3 or the Mini 3 Pro? This post will discuss every aspect of the above mini drones, including the costs, differences, and power supply of the Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro dominated forecasted 2024 warfare. Let’s go!
If you are also interested in comparing the Mini 3 & Mini 3 Pro with older versions such as the DJI Mini 2 or SE model; then don’t forget to check out our comprehensive comparison guide that discusses how DJI mini-series has evolved. Let’s discuss this in Detail:
Why Compare the DJI Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro?
The Mini series of drones by DJI, and perhaps more than any other single drone, changed the drone market by introducing high-quality aerial photography and filming in a small and lightweight package. The DJI Mini 3 and the DJI Mini 3 Pro remain highly capable units, however, their prospective users vary.
The Mini 3 is ideal for a casual user who wants an inexpensive, basic, well-performing drone and the Mini 3 Pro serves more advanced users who want more advanced features. If you are contemplating the differences between the Mini 3 Pro vs Mini 3 or simply wondering what the variations are, this guide will offer an in-depth DJI Mini 3 vs Mini 3 Pro comparison to assist you in making the right choice.
| DJI Mini 3 | DJI Mini 3 Pro | |
| Weight | 249 g | 249 g |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | Folded (without propellers): 148×90×62 mm (L×W×H)Unfolded (with propellers): 251×362×72 mm (L×W×H) | Folded (without propellers): 148×90×62 mm (L×W×H)Unfolded (with propellers): 251×362×72 mm (L×W×H) |
| Camera | 1/1.3-inch CMOSEffective Pixels: 12 MP | 1/1.3-inch CMOSEffective Pixels: 48 MP |
| Max Flight Time | 38 minutes (with Intelligent Flight Battery)51 minutes (with Intelligent Flight Battery Plus *) | 34 minutes (with Intelligent Flight Battery)47 minutes (with Intelligent Flight Battery Plus *) |
| Max Wind Speed Resistance | 10.7 m/s (Level 5) | 10.7 m/s (Level 5) |
| Global Navigation Satellite System | GPS + GLONASS + Galileo | GPS + Galileo + BeiDou |
| Image Sensor | 1/1.3-inch CMOS, Effective Pixels: 12 MP | 1/1.3-inch CMOS, Effective Pixels: 48 MP |
| ISO Range | Video: 100-3200Photo: 100-3200 | Video: 100-6400Photo: 100-6400 |
| Max Image Size | 4000×3000 | 8064×6048 (48 MP) |
| Max Video Bitrate | 100 Mbps | 150 Mbps |
| Sensing Type | Downward vision system | Forward, Backward and Downward vision system |
| Video Transmission System | DJI O2 | DJI O3 |
| Transmission Distance (CE) | 6km | 8km |
| Compatible Controllers | DJI RC-N1:DJ RC | DJI RC-N1:DJI RC;DJI RC Pro;DJI RC Motion 2 |
| Retail Price | From $1188 | From $1119 |
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider Before Buying
Before distinguishing the distinctive features of the DJI Mini 3 and DJI Mini 3 Pro, here are some important factors to bear in mind:
- Budget: Mini 3 Pro is packed with more advanced features but also comes at a premium cost.
- Photography and Videography Needs: If high-quality images and videos are important to you, then it is crucial to consider the cameras of both drones.
- Flight Time: Longer battery life may be very important especially when you have a long shooting period.
- Distance Limit: What is the maximum distance of the drone before it goes offline?
- Portability: The two drones are small, however, is the extra weight supported by the benefits of the Pro version?
- Ease of Use: Some drones are overloaded with very complex features that may only be useful sometimes even to a novice.
Mini 3 vs Mini 3 Pro Camera Comparison
The camera is one of the key features that separates the DJI Mini 3 from the DJI Mini 3 Pro. The Mini 3 Pro features a 48 MP camera that can shoot at 4K 60 fps which is perfect for any professional videographer. However, the Mini 3 comes with a smaller 12 MP camera which is capable of shooting 4K @ 30fps which is more than enough for most casual users and hobbyists.
QuickShots and Intelligent Modes
The DJI Mini 3 Pro has an increased ISO sensitivity of up to 6400 enabling better performance in low-light situations compared to the non-Pro which has an ISO sensitivity of 3200. The drone also incorporates advanced shooting modes like ActiveTrack, Mastershots, Hyperlapse, and QuickShots making it easy to capture moving videos and photographs. All these improvements make the Pro version very appealing to content creators with high expectations of aerial photo and video shooting.
| Mini 3 | Mini 3 Pro | |
| Sensor | 1/1.3-inch CMOSEffective Pixels: 12 MP | 1/1.3-inch CMOSEffective Pixels: 48 MP |
| Lens | FOV: 82.1°Format Equivalent: 24 mmAperture: f/1.7Focus: 1 m to ∞ | FOV: 82.1°Format Equivalent: 24 mmAperture: f/1.7Focus Range: 1 m to ∞ |
| ISO Range | Video: 100-3200Photo: 100-3200 | Video: 100-6400 (Auto), 100-6400 (Manual)Photo: 100-6400 (Auto), 100-6400 (Manual) |
| Shutter Speed | Electronic Shutter: 2-1/8000 s | Electronic Shutter: 2-1/8000 s |
| Max Image Size | 4000 x 3000 | 4:3: 8064 x 6048 (48 MP), 4032 x 3024 (12 MP)16:9: 4032 x 2268 (12 MP) |
| Still Photography Modes | JPEG: 2/3/5/7/10/15/20/30/60 sJPEG + RAW: 5/7/10/15/20/30/60 sAutomatic Exposure Bracketing (AEB): 12 MP, 3 frames at 2/3 EV stepPanorama: Sphere, 180°, Wide Angle | Interval:JPEG: 2/3/5/7/10/15/20/30/60 sJPEG + RAW: 2/3/5/7/10/15/20/30/60 sAuto Exposure Bracketing (AEB): 3/5 bracketed frames at 2/3 EV BiasPanorama: Sphere, 180°, Wide-angle, and Vertical |
| Photo Format | JPEG/DNG (RAW) | JPEG/DNG (RAW) |
| Video Resolution | 4K: 3840 x 2160@24/25/30 fps2.7K: 2720 x 1530@24/25/30/48/50/60 fpsFHD: 1920 x 1080@24/25/30/48/50/60 fps | 4K: 3840 x 2160@24/25/30/48/50/60fps2.7K: 2720 x 1530@24/25/30/48/50/60fpsFHD: 1920 x 1080@24/25/30/48/50/60fpsSlow Motion: 1920 x 1080@120fps |
| HDR Mode | HDR: The Single Shot mode supports outputting HDR images. HDR: Recording with the 24/25/30fps frame rate supports outputting HDR images. | Photo: HDR supported in Single Shot mode Video: HDR supported when shooting at 24/25/30fps |
| Video Format | MP4 (H.264) | MP4/MOV (H.264/H.265) |
| Max Video Bitrate | 100 Mbps | 150 Mbps |
| Zoom Range | 4K: 2×2.7K: 3xFHD: 4x | 4K: 2×2.7K: 3xFHD: 4x |
| QuickShot Modes | Dronie, Helix, Rocket, Circle, and Boomerang | Dronie, Helix, Rocket, Circle, Boomerang, and Asteroid |
| Colour Profiles | Normal | NormalD-Cinelike |
| Supported File System | FAT32 (≤ 32 GB)exFAT (> 32 GB) | FAT32 (≤32 GB)exFAT (>32 GB) |
Transmission System
Another main distinction lies in the transmission system. The Mini 3 Pro comes equipped with DJI’s improved O3 transmission that provides longer range as well as lower latency. Therefore making it perfect for users looking for more range or smoother video feed. On the contrary, Mini 3 depends on an old O2 transmission advancing reliable but limited coverage and comparatively high response time.
Characteristics Relating to Performance and Safety in Aviation
DJI Mini 3 and DJI Mini 3 Pro are both compact but power-packed drones with good performance. Their small size does not affect their ability to carry out operations which makes them favorable for both experts and amateurs alike. When comparing the two, many aspects need consideration including flight duration, speed, operational versatility, transmission systems used, and safety features.
In terms of the flying radius of various drones, the DJI Mini 3 Pro stands out with a maximum distance limit of 12 km, while the Mini 3 can withstand a flying radius of almost 10 km. This additional range may come in handy when filming far examples of topography or long stretches of terrain.
| Mini 3 | Mini 3 Pro | |
| Max Speed (at sea level, no wind) | 16 m/s | 16 m/s (S Mode)10 m/s (N Mode)6 m/s (C Mode) |
| Max Ascent Speed | 5 m/s | 5 m/s (S Mode)3 m/s (N Mode)2 m/s (C Mode) |
| Max Descent Speed | 3.5 m/s | 5 m/s (S Mode)3 m/s (N Mode)1.5 m/s (C Mode) |
| Max Flight Time | 38 mins | 34 mins |
| Max Hovering Time | 33 mins | 30 mins |
| Max Wind Speed Resistance | 10.7 m/s (Level 5) | 10.7 m/s (Level 5) |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C to 40°C (14° to 104° F) | -10°C to 40° C (14° to 104° F) |
| Hovering Accuracy Range | Vertical:±0.1 m (with vision positioning)±0.5 m (with GNSS positioning);Horizontal: ±0.3 m (with vision positioning)±1.5 m (with GNSS positioning) | Vertical:±0.1 m (with vision positioning)±0.5 m (with GNSS positioning)Horizontal:±0.3 m (with vision positioning)±0.5 m (with high-precision positioning system) |
| Sensing System | Downward | Forward; Backward: Downward |
| Video Transmission (CE) | DJI O2 | DJI O3 |
| Live View Quality | 720p/30fps | 1080p/30fps |
| Latency (depending on environmental conditions and mobile device) | Approx. 200 ms | Approx. 120 ms |
| Antenna | Antenna | 4 antennas, 1T2R |
DJI Mini 3 vs Mini 3 Pro: Pros and Cons
Let’s look at the pros and cons of both drones to make the decision easier:
DJI Mini 3
Pros:
- More affordable than the Pro model
- Longer battery life
- Lightweight and portable (249g)
- Great for beginners
Cons:
- Lower camera quality (12 MP)
- No obstacle avoidance sensors
- Fewer intelligent flight modes
DJI Mini 3 Pro
Pros:
- High-quality 48 MP camera with 4K @ 60fps
- Advanced obstacle sensing in three directions
- Enhanced intelligent flight modes like MasterShots and Hyperlapse
- Longer flight range
Cons:
- Higher price
- Slightly shorter flight time compared to the Mini 3
A Detailed Battery Life Comparison for Longer Flights
When it comes to flight time, the Mini 3 has an edge over the Mini 3 Pro, offering up to 38 minutes of flight time as compared to the 34 minutes in the normal mode of the Pro. However, the intelligent battery management system of the Mini 3 Pro is better formulated to conserve energy, particularly for demanding tasks like 4K video shooting.
DJI Mini 3 vs Mini 3 Pro Price
Cost consideration for anyone picking between the two drones considers:
Cost: The Mini 3 is cheaper whereas the Mini 3 Pro is expensively priced because of advanced characteristics.
Value: The added features and increased functionality in addition to the Mini 3 Pro’s higher quality make it more valuable to anyone who requires them.
The Mini 3 provides excellent value for money if you are on a tight budget. However, if you want the latest technology that comes with great quality then it’s worth spending extra bucks on Mini 3 pro.
Design Comparison
The Mini 3 series is not only designed for easy transportation. They are so light that they fall under a regulation that simplifies flight for new users. For instance, these drones belong to the A1 sub-category of Open Category which allows flying over people (but not crowds) without needing to take any extra training courses like A2 Certificate of Competency (A2 CofC) or General Visual Line of Sight Certificate (GVC) by a pilot. Thus, this kind of regressive ease favors an inexperienced individual who intends to fly the aircraft without more stringent certifications.
A drone’s overall performance and user experience can be affected by its design and construction:
Build Quality: Compared with other models Mini 3 Pro possesses better quality materials hence suitable for harsh conditions.
Size and Weight: Both drones are small and light but in the case of stability during flight it’s only Mini 3 Pro that has a bigger frame.
Appearance: Mini 3 Pro has a design that gives it a classy appearance with some sleekness thus adding more value to it.
If design and build quality matter to you more, then consider getting yourself a Mini 3 Pro as it’s sturdier and stylish.
Comparison Of DJI Mini 3 Battery To Mini 3 Pro Battery
When it comes to flight time, the Mini 3 has an edge over the Mini 3 Pro, offering up to 38 minutes of flight time as compared to the 34 minutes in the normal mode of the Pro. However, the intelligent battery management system of the Mini 3 Pro is better formulated to conserve energy, particularly for demanding tasks like 4K video shooting.
Accessories Compatibility Overview
Drones can gain more utility with accessories. Here is a summary of what each model supports:
Compatible accessories: Both drones can utilize several accessories from DJI, including bags for carrying cases, propeller guards, and additional batteries.
Add-ons: Interestingly, Mini 3 Pro features high-end add-ons such as DJI RC Pro remote controller and battery extras.
Options: Moreover, this model also has some unique accessories like DJI Goggles 2 that provide an unforgettable flying experience.
Advanced Features
Professional pilots have to always be ahead; thus, they need sophisticated characteristics in their drones:
Characteristics of advanced technology: For instance, professionals use such traits as heightened image resolution processors for cameras, sophisticated techniques of flight, and modernized sensors to mention but a few features found on the DJI Mini 3 Pro;
Able to do certain things: when it comes to better image processing, extended flight durations, and selection of other flying variants there is no doubt that the Mini 3 Pro can be relied upon by experts in this field;
Including other options: High-level performance for professionals is all about going for the Mini 3 Pro that possesses everything to make the best out of their job.
DJI Mini 3 vs Mini 3 Pro Software
Firmware: although both drones receive regular firmware updates, the Mini 3 Pro might get more advanced features and improvements because of its higher-end status.
Updates: more advanced functionalities are included in Mini 3 Pro’s software which may lead to improved usability as well as performance.
Usability: on one hand, and at the other end of this spectrum is the Mini 3 with a simpler user interface while on the contrary side rests the Mini 3 Pro targeting users who are experts in their field.
If you are looking for something with the latest software updates and new functions then go for Mini 3 Pro.
DJI Mini 3 vs Mini 3 Pro Remote Control
| DJI RC Pro | DJI RC | DJI RC-N1 | |
| Built-in Screen | Yes | Yes | No |
| Screen Brightness and Resolution | 1,000 cd/m² 1920 x 1080 resolution | 700 cd/m² 1920 x 1080 resolution | Depends on the mobile device |
| Screen Size | 5.5 inches | 5.5 inches | Supports devices up to 180mm (L) x 86mm (W) x 10mm (H). Also compatible with a tablet holder. |
| Weight | 680 g | 390 g | 390 g |
| Battery Life | 3 hours | 4 hours | 6 hours (without charging any mobile device) 4 hours (when charging a mobile device) |
| OcuSync Transmission System | Up to O3+, depending on the drone. Mini 3 Pro supports O3, Mini 3 supports O2. | Up to O3+, depending on the drone. Mini 3 Pro supports O3, Mini 3 supports O2. | Up to O3+, depending on the drone. Mini 3 Pro supports O3, Mini 3 supports O2. |
| Transmission Distance (CE) | Up to 8km, depending on the drone. Mini 3 Pro has a max distance of 8km, the Mini 3 has a max distance of 6km. | Up to 8km, depending on the drone. Mini 3 Pro has a max distance of 8km, the Mini 3 has a max distance of 6km. | Up to 8km, depending on the drone. Mini 3 Pro has a max distance of 8km, the Mini 3 has a max distance of 6km. |
| Antennas | 4 | 2 | 2 |
DJI Mini 3 versus Mini 3 Pro GPS
Accuracy: In terms of accuracy, the Mini 3 Pro adopts a more advanced GPS that ensures better positioning and following.
Tracking: Enhanced tracking features on the Mini 3 Pro guarantee accurate location information as well as flight stability.
Features: While both drones have GPS functions, the more sophisticated system of the Mini 3 Pro comes with extra functions for better operationality.
DJI Mini 3 vs Mini 3 Pro Flight Modes
Flight modes offer various flying styles and capabilities:
- Standard: Both drones offer standard flight modes suitable for everyday use.
- Sport: The Mini 3 Pro includes a sport mode for higher speeds and more dynamic flying experiences.
- Cinematic: The Mini 3 Pro also offers advanced cinematic modes for capturing more cinematic footage.
For a range of flight options and enhanced capabilities, the Mini 3 Pro’s additional flight modes are advantageous.
Conclusion: Which One Should You Buy?
Based on the detailed comparison of the two drones, the answer will rely very much on your personal needs. For instance, the DJI Mini 3 is a solid drone for beginners or hobbyists who wish to have a great drone at an affordable price.
Nevertheless, if you are a professional or an avid fan who would require additional features such as a better camera, obstacle sensors, and intelligent flight modes, you would be justified to pay more for the DJI Mini 3 Pro.
Our Recommendation:
- For Casual Users: The DJI Mini 3 is an ideal quadcopter for a casual user looking for a cost-effective, lightweight drone with an impressive battery life and decent 4K recording.
- For Professionals and Enthusiasts: The high specs of the DJI Mini 3 Pro are meant for sorely demanding image quality and flight capabilities of the end user.
DJI Mini 3 Pro vs Mini 3: Which Drone is Ideal for You?
To conclude, if cost is not a limitation and you are looking for high quality and state-of-the-art specifications, then go for the DJI Mini 3 Pro with its advanced camera developed for image-capturing purposes only or enhanced flight modes. In case you are after just a casual use and can do with little safety features at an affordable price then go for a good value that can be found in the DJI Mini 3 drone. The selection must match your budget, intended usage, and needed features so that you can have an all-inclusive drone experience.
Does The Mini 3 Make Sense?
The DJI Mini 3 is a wonderful selection for anyone searching for a less expensive alternative that still offers quite a bit without sacrificing very much on quality at all! It has a long battery life, decent photo-capturing capabilities as well and dependable transmission quality; hence it is among the best entry-level drones one could buy these days. Nevertheless, if you are an expert or an admirer who prefers taking more close-ups or moving images with very refined quality with an improved range of transmission, thus stick to your choice – buy a Mini 3 Pro.
