Hello, and thanks for checking this comparability article.
Within the grand journey of trying to find the right drone, we need to share an unlikely comparability between two equally priced drones, the DJI FPV and DJI Air 2S.
Coming from totally different worlds however sharing the identical producer, these drones are exceptional in numerous methods for what they’re designed to do.
I really like flying FPVs, however I additionally fly GPS drones typically. If you happen to’re weighing between these two drones, I may also help you select between the DJI FPV and Air 2S.
Which drone is healthier?
If you happen to’re on the lookout for a drone for skilled images and videomaking that provides many security options and clever modes, look no additional than the 1-inch CMOS DJI Air 2S.
Nevertheless, when you’re on the lookout for a problem and a thrill whereas capturing essentially the most excellent movies, then the DJI FPV must be your goal.
Let’s break down this matter and evaluate these drones that can assist you select the best one with out spending your hard-earned cash on the mistaken one.
Temporary Overview
DJI FPV
FPV drones are the factor of the long run. However DJI didn’t be part of the large leagues of producing FPV drones till January 2021, with their first FPV drone, the DJI FPV.
Though DJI is thought to be the leading edge in technological development the place they launched digital transmission, DJI FPV was a pleasing shock for a lot of pilots. That is the drone to search for when you’re in search of simplicity to get into FPV.
By now, we’re approaching the drone’s third birthday. And but, it’s right here for us to check as a result of, even immediately, it’s the form of drone that made this passion extra accessible to many.
In fact, as I’ve talked about in different articles, I take advantage of the DJI FPV repeatedly and fly it at medium to lengthy vary to create cinematic content material. I merely adore it; it’s an awesome drone with each good and unhealthy factors.
So, what sort of options does the DJI FPV have?
- It’s the primary FPV drone to function flights in guide (acro mode) in addition to in regular and sport modes like normal GPS drones. DJI Avata additionally shares the identical function.
- It’s meant for quick and long-range flights with the chance to freestyle and even race.
- This drone presents an unparalleled flying expertise when utilizing the FPV headset. It supplies an adrenaline increase and an immersive dopamine launch as customers see what the drone sees in VR.
- It’s the primary FPV drone to share a function referred to as “Emergency Brake.” With a push of a button, the drone will come to an immediate cease, swap to regular mode, and hover – finest to make use of once you lose management of the drone.
- The DJI FPV has robust motors and may carry a GoPro or comparable motion digicam for creating higher cinematic content material.
- It presents a simple strategy to get into FPV with out coping with complicated setups, connection protocols, firmware incompatibilities, Betaflight configurations, and harmful LiPo charging. It’s a easy turn-on-and-fly FPV drone.
» MORE: DJI FPV – Methods to Take Off and Land (Step-by-Step Information)
DJI Air 2S
When it comes to digicam high quality and value, the DJI Air 2S was the king of the “finest bang on your buck drone.”
It’s not the newest “Air” drone and was surpassed by the DJI Air 3 in lots of eventualities, however not camera-related (besides that the Air 3 has two cameras).
These days, many drone pilots like me select to fly the Air 2S simply due to the big 1-inch CMOS sensor, which is made for low-light and night time images with nice dynamic vary. The Air 3 cameras have the 1/1.3-inch CMOS.
However the DJI Air 2S has extra to supply.
Listed here are a number of the prime perks of this drone.
- The massive 1-inch CMOS shouldn’t be discovered on equally priced drones, not from DJI or different producers. It’s the most cost effective choice for moving into skilled filming and images, even at night time.
- The Air 2S options OcuSync 3.0, which is superb for flying long-range with respectable interference penetration. This drone also can fly for as much as 31 minutes.
- As a newbie, you’ll love the 4-way impediment avoidance system. It will not be pretty much as good because the omnidirectional one present in Air 3 or DJI Mini 4 Professional within the value vary, however we have to make a compromise for the digicam high quality.
- The DJI Air 2S has many clever flight modes, from Energetic Monitor with follow-me mode to QuickShots and Waypoints.
» MORE: DJI Air 2S – A Full Actual-World Assessment
Fast Verdict
Let me get straight to the reply you’ve come for when you’re in a rush.
Right here at Droneblog, we write critiques and comparisons primarily based on private expertise, experience, and data; we’ve got practically all of the big-brand drones, so you possibly can depend on our suggestions.
If you happen to’re a newbie or skilled photographer, desire a drone for industrial work, or just need to take the less-risky strategy, the DJI Air 2S is the drone for you.
However when you’re on the lookout for challenges to fly one thing quick and seize some distinctive cinematic movies, and you have already got at the least fundamental data of flying drones, then the DJI FPV is what you’re on the lookout for.
Only a warning: The DJI FPV has a steep studying curve if you wish to fly in guide (acro) mode, and also you’ll need to endure coaching for a lot of hours behind an FPV simulator so as to fly it.
» MORE: DJI Avata vs. DJI Air 2S (Right here’s my Selection)
What are the principle variations?
As a result of these drones are designed for various kinds of pilots and aims, we should always count on fairly a number of variations between them.
Right here’s how these drones stand out from one another:
- Flight Issue: The DJI FPV is an FPV drone with a unique flight model in guide (acro) mode than the DJI Air 2S, which shares the usual GPS flight model. Flying DJI FPV is extra complicated than the Air 2S, however not in regular or sport modes.
- Digicam: The DJI Air 2S 1-inch CMOS is greater than twice as massive because the one discovered within the DJI FPV, 1/2.3 inch CMOS. And to not point out, the DJI Air 2S can movie in 5.4k at 30fps, whereas the DJI FPV movies in 4k at 60fps.
- Options: The Air 2S boosts many clever capabilities and security options that the DJI FPV lacks. When it comes to options present in FPV drones, the DJI FPV has some benefits, however not over the Air 2S.
- Transportation: Once we’re seeking to carry these drones round, keep in mind that the DJI Air 2S is foldable and takes up much less area than the DJI FPV drone, which doesn’t fold. You additionally want further area for the DJI Goggles.
- Flight Expertise: Whereas the DJI Air 2S flies like an ordinary drone (DJI Mini 3 Professional, Mavic 3 Professional, and so forth.) and also you’ll see the picture by way of the cellphone display or RC display, the DJI FPV provides you an immersive expertise the place you see the reside view at low latency, good decision, and excessive framerate by way of the suitable goggles.
» MORE: Autel EVO Lite Plus vs DJI FPV (Right here’s My Favourite)
DJI FPV
I really like my DJI FPV drone. I merely adore it, however that’s as a result of I’m an FPV form of one who loves flying such drones.
If you happen to get into FPV, count on to develop an obsession and infrequently look again at flying normal drones. FPV has a lot to supply, similar to this drone.
My DJI FPV drone stands on the desk simply to remind me to select it up and go outdoor to fly it. It’s not saved in long-term storage like another drones I’ve. It’s one I typically use, and I make the most of it.
However I’ve been fortunate as a result of I’ve by no means crashed it to this point.
» MORE: Replace DJI FPV Drone (Step by Step Information)
Flying FPV, particularly with the DJI FPV, comes at the next danger of crashing your drone since you received’t make the most of any form of security options (aside from the emergency brake).
If you happen to think about freestyle with the DJI FPV, then you definitely nearly assure crashing the drone when you don’t have a wealthy FPV background.
And sure, you’ll principally management the drone in essentially the most “guide” manner attainable (in fact, we’re nonetheless speaking about flying it in acro mode) with out counting on any sensors to degree the drone, hover, stabilize it, or use the anti-collision sensors.
However the adrenaline it provides me after I fly this drone – I can not share this with you as a result of there aren’t any phrases to explain it. Generally, you neglect you’re flying the drone, and your mind thinks you’re up there.
Do you may have movement or peak illness? Then I assume this drone will not be for you.
After I gave my accomplice a pair of goggles to look at what I noticed after I was flying the drone, after a giant dive with my DJI FPV, I heard her scream at me and take the goggles off.
She has by no means tried them since and remained simply an observer of me having enjoyable!
Sure, I’ve loads of enjoyable.
However I additionally measure dangers and put the drone’s and others’ security first. Whereas I typically attempt to beat my very own information, I’ve to suppose: What if I crash this drone? Not even a puzzle professional can put it again collectively.
DJI FPV Combo
Take pleasure in crystal-clear real-time and HD Low-Latency Transmission video, even at distances of as much as 6.2 miles.
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11/30/2023 04:01 am GMT
DJI Air 2S
As to sharing my private expertise, the Air 2S doesn’t give me the identical tunnel imaginative and prescient because the DJI FPV. However as knowledgeable photographer, I typically need to seize the perfect images I can.
Proper now, whereas I’m writing this text at 07:00 AM and I look out of the window on the hill close by and see the low-level clouds and the late autumn tree colours, all I’m considering of is to seize it and take some unbelievable pictures, as a result of this drone is able to doing simply that.
And no, I’m not contemplating every other drone as a result of not many have the digicam high quality to check with that of the Air 2S (until you’re going for the Mavic 3 sequence).
» MORE: Can You Fly DJI Air 2s at Evening? (Defined)
However general, the DJI Air 2S is a significantly better drone than the DJI FPV for newbies, even when you don’t think about flying manually.
From impediment avoidance to the numerous different issues I can do with the clever modes, they often assist greater than lots to get the footage I’m on the lookout for.
Right here at Droneblog, many people are industrial drone pilots. We’re fairly choosy about which drones discover a spot within the industrial fleet.
However by some means, the Air 2S is there as a result of it’s greater than a incredible drone.
It will not be the lightest (below 250 grams), however the digicam sensor makes the excellence in getting the pictures we’d like in locations the place we will’t fly different drones or they’re unavailable for use.
DJI Air 2S Fly Extra Combo
Drone with 3-Axis Gimbal Digicam, 5.4K Video, 1-Inch CMOS Sensor, 4 Instructions of Impediment Sensing, 31-Min Flight Time, Max 7.5-Mile Video Transmission, MasterShots, Grey
We earn a fee when you make a purchase order, at no extra value to you.
11/30/2023 11:41 am GMT
Head-to-Head Comparability
Digicam System
Winner: DJI Air 2S
A couple of times I’ve talked about how good the DJI Air 2S digicam is. Is it actually that good?
Completely. And no, I’m not attempting to persuade you of something, however the sensor measurement is even bigger than the one discovered within the latest DJI Air 3.
In fact, the Air 3 has two cameras, in order that they sacrifice the sensor measurement to take care of the worth. Nevertheless, by way of picture and video high quality, dynamic vary, decision, and capabilities, the DJI Air 2S digicam stands out.
So, with the 1-inch CMOS, not many drones have such sensors. Possibly the Mavic 3 line with their 4/3 Hasselblad, which is greater than double the worth, or the Autel EVO Lite Plus, which does share an identical sensor.
However I at all times felt the Air 2S was greater than I wanted, at the least for now.
Do I even have to say the DJI FPV digicam? I’m not ashamed of it, however it’s far beneath immediately’s requirements.
It has a 1/2.3-inch CMOS. It isn’t that nice with the dynamic vary, and I at all times struggled a bit to post-process my movies, even when they’re filmed in D-Cinelike.
However on this case, we’ve got to keep in mind that the DJI FPV digicam ought to be used primarily for reside feed.
This comes from an FPV pilot: Please use a GoPro or comparable motion digicam on prime of the DJI FPV drone as a result of it really works fantastically, and you’ll seize the perfect pictures you possibly can in guide mode. But it surely’s ineffective when you’re going to fly in regular or sport modes solely.
So, when you’re going to have or have already got the DJI FPV drone, I can’t say the digicam is the worst of all.
Actually, it’s not. It’s okay, and I really like that I can movie in 4k at 60 frames per second after which post-process or decelerate components for some little bit of slow-motion results.
However when you’re on the lookout for extra framerate, then you definitely’ll need to drop to full HD for 120FPS, whereas the Avata has 120FPS at 2.7k and the DJI Air 2S… nicely, on the identical FHD decision.
» MORE: Digicam Expertise in Drones (Defined)
Efficiency
Winner: DJI FPV
Up to now couple of years, DJI drones have continued to enhance, and now they’re steady and can be utilized with out points, even by newbies.
We will depend on their excessive efficiency and options.
But when we’ve got to decide on between these two drones, I do think about that the DJI FPV has higher flight efficiency than the DJI Air 2S.
Right here’s why.
Relating to wind resistance, flying an FPV drone in acro mode relies upon not on the drone’s stability however on its weight, aerodynamics, and motor power.
As I’ve mentioned in one other article, I’d be courageous sufficient to fly the DJI FPV drone in guide mode in some excessive climate, even in winds past 60mph. The DJI FPV’s wind resistance is marketed as a most of 31 mph when flying in regular mode.
Right here’s one other huge win for the DJI FPV drone.
The DJI FPV can attain speeds as much as 87 miles per hour and speed up to 60mph in lower than two seconds. The DJI Air 2S can’t fly quicker than 42 mph in sport mode.
The DJI Air 2S may be very steady when flying the drone, and the footage is easy due to its 3-axis mechanical gimbal. Nevertheless, the DJI FPV can also be very steady when flying in regular mode, though it solely has a single-axis gimbal.
Furthermore, the DJI FPV has a novel aerodynamic form (“potato”) that’s advantageous for flying easily and steadily at any velocity with out points.
» MORE: DJI Air 2S in Excessive Climate (Defined)
Good Options
Winner: DJI Air 2S
The DJI Air 2S has a nice follow-me mode with Energetic Monitor and APAS 4.0.
Though I’m not the form of one who typically makes use of automated capabilities when flying drones (I like to be accountable for the drone and never let a pc make the choices for me), they’re there for use at any time with ease and nice accuracy.
On the security options facet, the Air 2S has 4-way impediment avoidance sensors that work seamlessly with the follow-me mode when flying in regular mode.
Observe: The DJI FPV is the primary and solely FPV drone on this planet to supply frontal anti-collision sensors. They’re not helpful when flying in guide mode, however when you’re a newbie flying in regular mode, you possibly can make the most of these sensors.
The one two sensible options we will consider on the DJI FPV are the emergency brake we spoke about earlier and the automated return-to-home function.
Having an RTH module in an FPV drone is a giant win. And contemplating that DJI produces glorious return-to-home modules that work with nice accuracy (as in comparison with customized modules), there’s yet one more win for DJI FPV, particularly when you fly long-range.
In fact, the DJI Air 2S additionally has a return-to-home operate. But it surely has extra. A lot extra by way of clever processes, fast flight modes, and automatic operations.
DJI FPV lacks any of these.
» MORE: DJI Air 2S Clever Flight Modes (Step-By-Step Information)
Flight time and vary
Winner: DJI Air 2S
Now we have to offer this level to the DJI Air 2S. Not as a result of the DJI FPV can not fly long-range – in actual fact, it’s made for this type of flight, and I really like to take action.
However the DJI Air 2S also can fly long-range due to the OcuSync 3.0 transmission system, and the battery will final lots longer.
Though it’s not comparable with 45+ minute batteries discovered within the DJI Air 3 or Mavic 3 drones, DJI advertises the Air 2S to have the ability to fly for as much as 31 minutes.
In actuality, to return the drone safely and land at an honest proportion with out the danger of this drone falling out of the sky, we should always count on to fly for about 24-25 minutes.
On the opposite facet, the DJI FPV can fly for as much as 20 minutes, and that’s it. In guide mode, count on to fly for 12-13 minutes at most.
That’s a bit bit low, isn’t it?
No, it’s not.
In FPV, we often fly these drones for 3 to 7 minutes and infrequently extra. That’s as a result of the Lipo batteries are smaller, the drones are a lot quicker, drain loads of amps, and are actually snappy once we speed up.
Now, the 12-13 minutes in guide mode is a giant win for DJI FPV, but it surely’s lower than superb when you’re seeking to get pleasure from having the drone within the sky for so long as you possibly can.
» MORE: Lengthy Vary Drones: Final Information
RC Compatibility
Winner: DJI FPV
This part must be a tie, however I’d be inclined to offer it to DJI FPV. And right here’s why.
I’ve the DJI FPV with the DJI FPV Distant Controller 2 and the DJI FPV Goggles V2.
Sadly, the DJI FPV Distant Controller 2 is the one ‘regular’ RC suitable with this drone. However you too can use the DJI Movement Controller and DJI RC Movement 2.
On prime of that, we’ve got the unique DJI FPV Goggles V2, that are completely incredible. However the DJI FPV can also be suitable with the DJI Goggles 2 from Avata and the latest DJI Integra.
So, the DJI Air 2S is suitable with the DJI RC-N1, DJI RC, and DJI RC Professional distant controllers.
If we’re trying just for controller compatibility, the Air 2S might be a winner with out contemplating the DJI FPV’s movement controllers.
However as a result of the DJI FPV drone is broadly suitable for use with a number of goggles and, in fact, movement controllers, this counts as greater than what the DJI Air 2S presents.
DJI Air 2S’s compatibility with the DJI RC Professional shocked us all as a result of that skilled distant controller “must be” suitable solely with the Mavic 3 sequence.
A few of us at Droneblog have the DJI RC Professional, which is incredible to make use of with the DJI Air 2S. Nevertheless, this controller prices as a lot because the drone itself.
Now, with the brand new DJI RC 2 and RC-N2 that includes the OcuSync 4.0, we might by no means count on compatibility with the Air 2S. However recently, DJI has launched equipment and components for the DJI FPV and Avata like hotcakes that, surprisingly, are all suitable with DJI FPV.
So, seeing one other pair of goggles or a distant controller that works simply advantageous with the DJI FPV shouldn’t be a shock.
» MORE: DJI Goggles 2 vs DJI FPV Goggles V2 (Defined)
Flight Expertise
Winner: DJI FPV
With none doubt, even when I’m at all times inclined to advertise the FPV expertise or not, this level goes to the DJI FPV.
It’s merely unbelievable what you see via the goggles once you fly the DJI FPV in guide mode at over 60 miles per hour, cruising at a number of toes above the bottom and inches from a big impression.
The journey of flying DJI FPV and any FPV drone merely can’t be in contrast with flying normal drones, not now, not ever.
As a facet reality, I keep up a correspondence with many FPV pilots on social media and teams. All of them, like me, have a background in flying normal drones.
However all of them share the identical opinion: as soon as they received into FPV and discovered the mechanics of flying such drones, whether or not we’re speaking about DJI FPV or every other FPV drone, they might fly normal drones solely as a necessity however not for enjoyable anymore.
FPVs are extra enjoyable and nice to fly than normal drones at an element of 10, and this isn’t solely my opinion. Ask any FPV pilots, and also you’ll discover out for your self.
So, when you’re on the lookout for the perfect flight expertise, adrenaline, and pleasure when flying a drone, go FPV and choose the DJI FPV so you may have the controller and goggles which are additionally totally suitable with Avata.
If you happen to additional need to get Avata as your first cinewhoop drone, you should use the identical goggles and controller with it – you’ll solely want to purchase the drone and nothing else.
» MORE: FPV Acro Freestyle (Final Information)
Conclusion
Two totally different class drones, comparable in value however concentrating on a unique class of pilots.
I really like each of them and have used these drones many occasions. However I’m going to depart my pleasure for FPV and offer you a transparent reply primarily based on information, data, and expertise.
The DJI Air 2S is an general winner. Will probably be extra useful to you, particularly when you’re simply moving into the drone passion otherwise you’re on the lookout for knowledgeable drone for images, filming, vlogging, industrial work, or a thousand different makes use of.
Alternatively, and never far off the worth, you possibly can look into DJI Air 3.
» MORE: DJI Air 3 Assessment – Is This the Drone for You?
The DJI FPV drone is just a small step up from normal drones, and you must get it when you’re on the lookout for adrenaline and a novel expertise or to seize some exceptional FPV video content material.
However you shouldn’t get it as a first-time drone pilot with out contemplating all of the dangers of flying FPV and the excessive possibilities of crashing the drone when you don’t fly it exceptionally nicely.
And bear in mind, FPV (with DJI FPV in guide mode) has a steep studying curve with many hours behind a simulator.
As a substitute for DJI FPV, you too can take a look on the DJI Avata.
» MORE: DJI Avata – Fingers-on Assessment (From an FPV Newbie)