If you are selecting both mini drones, you are probably familiar with the DJI Mini 3 and DJI Mini 4. Both drones belonging to the mini-series by DJI provide an excellent balance between weight and performance. However, in 2024 – which one will you opt for? This article is meant as a short guide where we will look at the DJI Mini 3 vs Mini 4 and their important features like battery life, camera quality, and some more.
Why Compare DJI Mini 3 vs Mini 4?
Drones like the DJI Mini 3 and the DJI Mini 4 have taken the drone-selling industry by storm, becoming one of the best-selling drones today. These two drones and more are targeted at a different audience, starting from beginner drone users and extending to the most refined users. The Mini 3 is simple though on most of its features, the Mini 4 has advanced features that can be suited to people who love advanced technology. But before making any choices, age says, we will dive into how clear the impressions depend on in the year 2024 when comparing DJI drone Mini 3 vs Mini 4.
Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for in a Drone
- Battery Performance: A battery that can last longer means more flight operations, which is vital in cases where drones are utilized for surveillance.
- Camera Grade: The effectiveness of the security systems will depend on the quality of pictures and videos produced. Hence, cameras that can record in 4K with stabilization should be sought after.
- Portability: Both Mini 3 and Mini 4 are less cumbersome to carry, but weight and size are still of great significance, especially when there is a need to shift the position of the drone often.
- Ease of Use: For a beginner in filming using drones, the UI must be user-friendly. Features such as a mode for flying on autopilot and sensors for obstacles are very useful.
- Cost and Value Determination: The budget for the acquisition as well as the functionality of the product is the key to purchasing the right equipment.
DJI Mini 3 vs Mini 4 Comparison Table
| Feature | DJI Mini 3 | DJI Mini 4 |
| Camera | 4K, 12 MP | 4K, 48 MP |
| Battery Life | Up to 31 minutes | Up to 34 minutes |
| Weight | 249g | 240g |
| Max Speed | 16 m/s | 17 m/s |
| Transmission Range | 10 km | 12 km |
| Obstacle Sensors | Front and Rear | 360-degree sensors |
| Price | $469 | $549 |
| Max Wind Resistance | Level 5 (19-24 mph) | Level 6 (25-31 mph) |
Pros and Cons of DJI Mini 3 vs Mini 4
DJI Mini 3 Pros
- Affordable: At $469, the Mini 3 is a great deal for beginners or casual users.
- Good Camera: The 12 MP camera gives you clear shots and videos for home security.
- Easy to Use: It’s very user-friendly, making it perfect for those new to drones.
DJI Mini 3 Cons
- Basic Features: It lacks 360-degree obstacle sensors, which might be a downside for more serious users.
- Battery Life: While 31 minutes is decent, it’s slightly less than the Mini 4.
DJI Mini 4 Pros
- Better Camera: The 48 MP camera offers much sharper videos and photos, ideal for high-quality security footage.
- Longer Flight Time: With a 34-minute battery life, you get more flying time compared to the Mini 3.
- Advanced Features: 360-degree obstacle sensors and a longer range make it great for advanced users or larger homes.
DJI Mini 4 Cons
- Higher Price: The extra features come at a cost, with the Mini 4 priced at $549.
- Complex for Beginners: Some of the advanced features may feel too much for first-time users.
Camera Comparison: DJI Mini 3 vs Mini 4
Evaluating the Mini 3 and Mini 4 comparatively, the more distinguishing aspect of the two models would be their heights. Mini 4 is likely to have a more sophisticated camera system. In the case of Mini 3, its 12-megapixel photo-taking snappers fitted is good enough for basic aerial shots. Mini 4 has an even better camera system fitted in it with a clear and high-resolution 48-megapixel camera. Not only that – the Mini 4 has a more technologically advanced stabilizer as well in case the wind becomes very strong.
Camera Features Breakdown:
- Mini 3: 4K video with 12 MP stills, 3-axis gimbal for stabilization.
- Mini 4: 4K video with 48 MP stills, better performance in low light, and improved gimbal stabilization.
Which Drone Should You Choose?
The decision on which of the drones to go for between DJI Mini 3 and DJI Mini 4 will depend on your needs and budget allocation. In case you are purchasing a drone for the first time and want one out of the box that is not complicated, the DJI Mini 3 is an ideal choice. It has an intuitive usage that is relatively inexpensive.
In case of a willingness to pay more for 360-degree obstacle sensors, more extended fight duration, and a better camera, the DJI Mini 4 is better priced for functionality. It caters to homeowners looking for decent-quality security footage.
Conclusion: Our Recommendation
The DJI Mini 4 will be a more suggested option for professional drone users in the year 2024 considering the wider range of functionalities it has in addition to its powerful design. The improvement in the quality of the camera, increase in flight time, and enhancement in the sensors redefine the price increase. But in case you are still a novice in drones or need just a basic user-friendly drone, the DJI Mini 3 is a perfect choice too.
What’s the difference between DJI Mini 3 and 4?
The DJI Mini 4 boasts several major updates in comparison to its predecessor, the Mini 3. These include increased flight time, a better camera with a high-resolution sensor, and improved obstacle avoidance capabilities. It is also capable of shooting in 4K HDR which enhances the quality of videos shot in low lighting. The Mini 4 offers more sophisticated modes of autonomous flight which can help beginners take professional pictures without much effort. Still, both drones are of small weight and are compact which is perfect for homeowners in need of simple, cheap, and effective security drones.
Is DJI making a mini 4?
Yes, the Mini 4 will be launched by DJI in 2024. It inherits the functions of the Mini 3 but adds also some improvements such as better camera quality, enhanced battery life as well and improved obstacle avoidance technology which makes it perfect for people who want a small and easy-to-use drone on both personal as well as security sides.
