DJI launches the affordable Mini 3 drone

DJI has launched a new compact, ultra-lightweight camera drone, the DJI Mini 3. The Mini 3 has many of the same high-performance features as the Mini 3 Pro and is aimed at new drone users.

Lightweight and portable

The DJI Mini 3 was specifically designed to weigh under 249 g (8.8 ounces). This is because, in many parts of the world, you can legally fly sub-250g drones without the need for registration or an exam. The DJI Mini 3 measures only 5.8 by 3.5 by 2.5 inches (148×90×62mm) when folded without propellors. This means the drone is so small you can pack it in your bag or pocket to take it with you everywhere.

DJI Mini 3
Image courtesy: DJI

4K video

The DJI Mini 3 camera has a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor and f/1.7 aperture for great images even in low light. The drone records 4K (3840×2160) video at up to 30fps. In addition, if you drop the resolution to 2.7K (2720×1530) or HD, then you can record at up to 60 fps. You can also record HDR images at 24, 25 and 30 fps frame rates.

Cinematic shots

DJI Mini 3 cinematic shot
Image courtesy: DJI

With the DJI Mini 3, you can easily create cinematic footage using QuickShots pre-programmed flights and filming paths. These include Dronie, where the drone flies back and up with the camera locked on the subject. There are also Helix and Circle options where the drone spirals and circles around the subject. Other QuickShots include Rocket, where the Mini 3 flies straight up with the camera facing down, and Boomerang, where the drone flies in an oval path.

Fly longer and smoother

The DJI Mini 3 comes with the standard Intelligent Flight Battery, which gives you up to 38 minutes of flight time.  In addition, DJI O2 digital video transmission delivers a 720p/30 fps live feed from up to 6 miles (10 km) away. The Mini 3 also uses powerful anti-interference technology to deliver a reliable connection throughout the flight. With a wind resistance at up to 10.7 m/s, Mini 3 can hover and keep a stable image in various conditions.

Easy to fly

The DJI Mini 3 has a number of intelligent functions to help you get flying straight away, such as Auto Takeoff mode. The drone also has several Return to Home (RTH) functions, including Smart RTH, Low battery RTH and Failsafe RTH. This means the drone will automatically return to its starting point in situations like a dropped signal or low battery. In addition, the Mini 3 combines the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) with the downward vision system and the infrared sensing system to hover stably and accurately.

Accessories

There are a number of accessories available for the DJI Mini 3. DJI RC is a lightweight and easy-to-use remote controller with a built-in screen. It also has the DJI Fly app built-in, so you don’t need to connect it to a smartphone. The Two-Way Charging Hub charges the remote controller and three batteries in sequence. In addition, the ND Filters Set includes ND16, ND64 and ND256, so you can film even on the brightest days.

What we think

DJI Mini 3 folded
Image courtesy: DJI

The Mini 3 looks like another great drone from DJI. It packs some great features into a small and affordable drone. The Mini 3 also has a lot of built-in assistance to give first-time flyers the confidence they need. If you want longer flight times, DJI offers an optional Intelligent Flight Battery Plus. However, this larger battery does take the drone’s weight over 249 g, which may affect how and where you can legally fly it.

Pricing and availability

The DJI Mini 3 is available to buy now from store.dji.com and authorized retail partners. It is available in seven configurations.

You can buy the DJI Mini 3 drone on its own without a remote or charger for $469. This is ideal for owners of existing DJI drones. You can also buy the DJI Mini 3 with the DJI RC-N1 Remote Controller for $559. Alternatively, you can buy the drone with the DJI RC Remote Controller for $699.

The DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo comes with the DJI RC-N1 Remote Controller, Shoulder Bag, Two-Way Charging Hub and two extra Intelligent Flight Batteries. It is priced at $718.

Finally, the DJI Mini 3 Fly More Combo (DJI RC) includes the DJI RC Remote Controller, Shoulder Bag, Two-Way Charging Hub and two extra Intelligent Flight Batteries. It costs $858.

Pete Tomkies
Pete Tomkies
Pete Tomkies is a freelance cinematographer and camera operator from Manchester, UK. He also produces and directs short films as Duck66 Films. Pete's latest short Once Bitten... won 15 awards and was selected for 105 film festivals around the world.

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