DJI launched its palm-sized Neo drone just over a year ago. The DJI Neo was aimed at content creators and self-shooters as it doesn’t need a remote control. It simply takes off from and lands in your hand. Now DJI has launched the DJI Neo 2 with some big improvement over the original model.
Dual-axis gimbal
The camera on DJI Neo 2 has the same 1/2-inch CMOS sensor as the first-generation Neo. However, the Neo 2 has a dual-axis gimbal which should deliver more stable footage.
It also has a slighter wider aperture of F2.2 compared to the F2.8 of the Neo. This should deliver better images in low light situations.
Video recording
The DJI Neo 2 can shoot up to 60 frames per second (fps) in 4K whereas the original model was limited to only 30 fps. If you use a remote control, you can go as high as 100 fps in 4K for super slow-motion shots. The on-board storage has also been increased to 49 GB, up from only 22 GB on the Neo. This is useful as there is no option to add an external card to store your recordings.
LiDAR
Another big improvement over the previous model is the Neo 2’s obstacle avoidance system. The Neo only had a single direction sensor. However, the new drone features LiDAR scanning in front to avoid collisions. It also uses downward-facing infrared sensors underneath which helps to improve flight safety. In addition, the Neo 2 has a new Return to Palm option.
Intelligent Flight Modes
DJI has added more Intelligent Flight Modes to the Neo 2 to capture dramatic and cinematic action shots. You now have SelfieShot, Dolly Zoom, and MasterShots in as well as the previous model’s QuickShots selection. The ActiveTrack system also features a new Cycling mode and can track subjects up to 12m/s.
Other features
The DJI Neo 2 is a little heavier than the first-generation drone but still only weighs 5.3 ounces (151 g). It can stay in the air a little longer, with the maximum flight time now 19 minutes instead of the original Neo’s 18 minutes.
Additionally, the Neo 2 can hover in winds of up to 24 mph, so you don’t need to wait for calm days to fly.
What we think
The DJI Neo 2 is an ideal drone for casual users and content creators who don’t want to learn how to fly a drone. With its automated palm-based take-off and landing, the Neo 2 is quick and simple to use. It’s so small you can keep it tucked in your camera bag so it’s always there if you want to capture an aerial shot. The Neo 2 also has an improved selection of automated flight options, so your footage will look great.
Also, DJI has taken steps to address most of the issues with the original Neo model. The improved obstacle avoidance and 4K 60 fps video are headline improvements. DJI will have another big seller with the Neo 2. Fingers crossed it comes to the U.S. soon.
Pricing and availability
The DJI Neo 2 is currently only available in China. It’s priced at 1,499 Yuan which equates to around $209 dollars at the current exchange rate and before tariffs are applied. The Neo 2 is also expected to launch in Europe and around from mid-November. Given the U.S. Government’s ongoing campaign to ban DJI products it remains to be seen whether the Neo 2 has a chance of coming to America.
