10 Best DJI Drones: Top Models That Dominate the Sky in 2024

I’ve thoroughly reviewed the latest DJI drones to create a guide highlighting the top ten models for 2024, perfect for both novice and expert pilots. The DJI Mavic 2 Pro with its Hasselblad camera and advanced imaging capabilities stands out for pros, while the DJI Tello is ideal for beginners, offering user-friendly programming.

For those seeking portability and high-quality video, the DJI Mini 2 SE and DJI Mini 3 are excellent choices. For extended features and flight times, consider the DJI Mavic 3 Pro or the advanced DJI FPV Drone Combo.

By understanding each model’s unique features and suitability, you’ll be better positioned to make an informed decision on the best drone for your needs.

1. DJI Mavic 2 Pro (best dji drone)

Specifications	Details
Flight Time	31 minutes (at a consistent 25 kph, no wind)
Transmission Distance	FCC: 8000 m; CE: 5000 m; SRRC: 5000 m; MIC: 5000 m (unobstructed, free of interference)
Weight	907 g
Battery	3850 mAh LiPo 4S
Max Speed	72 km/h (S-mode) (near sea level, no wind)
Size	214×91×84 mm (folded); 322×242×84 mm (unfolded)
Camera	1″ CMOS sensor, 20MP, 28mm (35mm equivalent) f/2.8-f/11 lens

If you’re seeking professional-grade aerial photography, the DJI Mavic 2 Pro with its Hasselblad camera is your top choice. This drone features a powerful 20MP 1” CMOS sensor, ensuring your shots are always crisp and detailed.

You’ll enjoy up to 31 minutes of flight time and speeds of up to 44 mph. There’s also an 8GB internal memory and SD card support up to 128GB, so you won’t run out of storage quickly.

The Mavic 2 Pro is designed with a 3-axis gimbal that keeps your shots steady, no matter how adventurous your flight becomes.

Whether you’re capturing hyperlapses or shooting in HDR, the quality is consistently impressive. Plus, with ActiveTrack 2.0 and omnidirectional obstacle sensing, your drone is smarter and safer during flight.

Best For: Professional photographers and videographers seeking high-quality aerial images and videos.

Pros:

• Equipped with a high-quality Hasselblad L1D-20c camera featuring a 20MP 1” CMOS sensor for top-tier image quality.
• Advanced flight features like ActiveTrack 2.0, omnidirectional obstacle sensing, and up to 31 minutes of flight time enhance user experience.
• Supports multiple connectivity options including Lightning, Micro USB, and USB-C, making it highly compatible with various devices.

Cons:

• High price points may be prohibitive for casual users or hobbyists.

2. DJI Tello Drone (dji best drone)

Specification	Details
Weight	80g
Durability	Robust design combined with DJI flight technologies for confident flying.
Flight Stunts	Capable of performing eight different somersaults with simple finger movements on the screen and bounce mode.
Flight Time	13 minutes
Range	Approx. 100 m
Programmability	Programmable with Scratch, a coding system developed by MIT, allowing users to learn programming basics while creating custom flight patterns.

The DJI Tello Drone, equipped with a 720P camera and weighing just 80g, is an ideal choice for beginners looking for an affordable and easy-to-use quadcopter.

You’ll enjoy up to 13 minutes of flight time and the ability to perform impressive 8D stunts. This drone is also programmable with the Scratch coding system, making it both educational and fun.

It’s controlled through the Tello app or a Bluetooth remote control, compatible with most iOS and Android devices, though not with Android tablets.

Keep in mind, the remote control isn’t included. With its compact design and intuitive controls, the Tello offers a stable and enjoyable flying experience, perfect for family outings and indoor fun.

Best For: Beginners and drone enthusiasts looking for an affordable, fun, and educational flying experience.

Pros:

• Lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry and use anywhere.
• Programmable with Scratch, offering an educational aspect to drone flying.
• Features a 720P camera which provides clear images and video footage.

Cons:

• Limited flight time of only 13 minutes per battery charge.

3. DJI Mini 2 SE (mini dji drone)

Specifications	Details
Flight Time	30 minutes (measured while flying at 17 kph in windless conditions)
Transmission Distance	10 km
Weight	249 g
Battery	2S LiPo, 3850 mAh
Max Speed	16 m/s (S Mode) 13 m/s (C Mode) 8 m/s (P Mode)
Size	Folded: 138×81×58 mm Unfolded (without propellers): 159×203×56 mm Unfolded (with propellers): 245×289×56 mm
Camera	1/2.3” CMOS, 12 MP Effective Pixels FOV: 83° 35 mm Format Equivalent: 24 mm Aperture: f/2.8 Focus Range: 1 m to ∞

For beginner drone enthusiasts, DJI’s Mini 2 SE stands out with its lightweight design and user-friendly features, making it an excellent choice for capturing high-quality aerial footage. You’ll appreciate its portability, weighing less than 249 grams, ideal for taking along on hikes and road trips.

The drone boasts a 30-minute flight time and a 10km maximum transmission range, ensuring you can explore vast areas without worrying about losing connection. Plus, it’s equipped to handle winds up to 38kph, so you can fly confidently in various conditions.

The simplified operations and Return to Home safety feature add to its appeal, especially if you’re just starting out. With the DJI Fly app, you’ll find it a breeze to create and share professional-level videos.

Best For: Beginner drone users looking for a lightweight, easy-to-use option with reliable performance and good video quality.

Pros:

• Weighs less than 249 grams, making it highly portable and convenient for travel.
• Features a 31-minute flight time and a 10km transmission range, allowing for extensive aerial exploration.
• Includes beginner-friendly features like simplified operations and a Return to Home function for safety.

Cons:

• Limited video resolution options with a maximum of 2.7K, which may not satisfy users seeking 4K video.

4. DJI Mini 3 (best mini dji drone)

Specifications	Details
Flight Time	38 minutes (with Intelligent Flight Battery) 51 minutes (with Intelligent Flight Battery Plus)
Transmission Distance	10 km (with Intelligent Flight Battery) 15 km (with Intelligent Flight Battery Plus)
Weight	249 g (without gimbal cover)
Battery	Intelligent Flight Battery: 2453 mAh Intelligent Flight Battery Plus: 3850 mAh
Max Speed	16 m/s (at sea level, no wind)
Size	Folded (without propellers): 148×90×62 mm (L×W×H) Unfolded (without propellers): 251×312×72 mm (L×W×H)
Camera	1/1.3-inch CMOS, 48MP FOV: 82.1° Format Equivalent: 24 mm

You’ll find the DJI Mini 3 Lightweight Drone with its compact design and 4K HDR video capability perfect for both beginners and seasoned drone enthusiasts.

Weighing just under 249 grams, it’s ideal for capturing high-quality video without the need for FAA registration. It features True Vertical Shooting, great for tall structures, and creative modes like QuickShots and Panorama. Its wind resistance up to 38kph guarantees stable flights even in breezy conditions.

The included DJI RC with a 5.5-inch HD display enhances your control experience, and you can fly up to 51 minutes with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus. Whether for fun or professional use, this drone combines portability with performance, making it a top choice for drone pilots of all levels.

Best For: Drone enthusiasts looking for a lightweight, high-quality video drone that’s easy to use and doesn’t require FAA registration.

Pros:

• Compact design and lightweight at under 249 grams, enhancing portability.
• Advanced 4K HDR video capability and True Vertical Shooting for diverse photography and videography.
• Extended flight time of up to 51 minutes with Intelligent Flight Battery Plus, suited for longer shoots.

Cons:

• Limited instructions are included with the product, requiring reliance on online tutorials.

5. DJI Mavic 3 Pro

Specification	Details
Flight Time	43 minutes (no wind)
Transmission Distance	FCC: 15 km CE: 8 km SRRC: 8 km MIC: 8 km
Weight	958 g
Battery	Capacity: 5000 mAh Voltage: 15.4 V Type: Li-ion 4S Energy: 77 Wh
Max Speed	21 m/s (no wind, at sea level)
Size	Folded: 231 × 98 × 95 mm (L×W×H) Unfolded (without propellers): 347.5×290.8×107.7 mm (L×W×H)
Camera	Hasselblad Camera: 4/3 CMOS, Effective Pixels: 20 MP Medium Tele Camera: 1/1.3″ CMOS, Effective Pixels: 48 MP Tele Camera: 1/2″ CMOS, Effective Pixels: 12 MP

If you’re seeking top-tier aerial photography, the DJI Mavic 3 Pro Fly More Combo with its Hasselblad Camera is your ideal choice. This drone features a high-quality Hasselblad main camera equipped with a 4/3 CMOS sensor, ensuring stunning image clarity and color accuracy.

With a max flight time of 43 minutes and a transmission distance of up to 15 kilometers, you can capture breathtaking views without worry. Plus, it’s built with omnidirectional obstacle sensing and APAS 5.0 to enhance safety during flight.

The package includes three batteries, a charging hub, and other essential accessories, offering you great value and convenience. Whether you’re a professional photographer or a hobbyist, this drone will meet all your aerial imaging needs.

Best For: Professional photographers and videography enthusiasts seeking high-quality aerial imaging and extended flight capabilities.

Pros:

• Superior camera quality with a Hasselblad 4/3 CMOS sensor for exceptional image clarity.
• Extended flight time of up to 43 minutes and long-range transmission up to 15 kilometers.
• Includes comprehensive safety features like omnidirectional obstacle sensing and APAS 5.0.

Cons:

• Higher price point compared to other drones in the market.

6. DJI Air 3 Fly

Specifications	Details
Flight Time	46 minutes
Transmission Distance	FCC: 20 km CE: 10 km SRRC: 10 km MIC: 10 km
Weight	720g (drone only) Approx. 267 g (battery)
Battery	4241 mAh Li-ion 4S, 62.6 Wh
Max Speed	21 m/s (horizontal at sea level, no wind) 10 m/s (ascent) 10 m/s (descent)
Size	Folded (without propellers): 207×100.5×91.1 mm (L×W×H) Unfolded (without propellers): 258.8×326.8×105.8 mm (L×W×H)
Camera	Wide-Angle Camera: 1/1.3-inch CMOS, Effective Pixels: 48 MP Medium Tele Camera: 1/1.3-inch CMOS, Effective Pixels: 48 MP

The DJI Air 3 Fly More Combo Drone with DJI RC 2 is ideal for both beginners and professionals seeking high-quality aerial footage. It features a dual-camera system and 4K video resolution.

You’ll find this drone’s dual primary cameras capable of capturing stunning 48MP images and recording 4K/60fps HDR videos.

With an impressive 20km max video transmission range, you can explore vast areas without losing connection. The package includes three batteries, extending your flight adventures without frequent recharges.

Moreover, the DJI Air 3 is FAA Remote ID compliant, ensuring you meet all regulatory requirements. Its all-encompassing obstacle sensing and six-antenna array provide thorough protection and stable transmission, making your flying experience worry-free and enjoyable.

Best For: Enthusiasts and professionals seeking versatile, high-quality aerial imaging and extended flight capabilities.

Pros:

• Dual-camera system enhances creative photography and videography options.
• Long 20km video transmission range allows for extensive remote operation.
• Includes three batteries for significantly increased flight time.

Cons:

• High-end features may come with a steep learning curve for beginners.

7. DJI Avata 2

Specifications	Details
Flight Time	Approx. 23 mins
Transmission Distance	FCC: 13 km (subject to the aircraft’s max flight distance) CE: 10 km SRRC: 10 km
Weight	Approx. 377g (Takeoff Weight) Approx. 145 g (Battery)
Battery	2150 mAh Li-ion 14.76 V (Standard Voltage)
Max Speed	18 m/s (S mode) 21 m/s (Manual mode)*
Size	185×212×64 mm (L×W×H)
Camera	1/1.3-inch image sensor Effective Pixels: 12 MP FOV: 155° Format Equivalent: 12 mm Aperture: f/2.8 Focus: 0.6 m to ∞

Designed for enthusiasts who desire an immersive and intuitive flying experience, the DJI Avata 2 Fly More Combo offers a robust FPV drone equipped with a 4K camera.

You’ll get three Intelligent Batteries, the DJI RC Motion 3, DJI Goggles 3, and more, ensuring extended flight times and a full exploration into the action.

The drone delivers remarkable footage with its 155° field of view and 1/1.3-inch image sensor, capturing tight, super-wide shots in stunning 4K. It’s hassle-free to create and share your POV content using the LightCut app, which offers a variety of editing templates.

Lightweight and portable, this drone is perfect if you’re enthusiastic about spending more time flying and less time fussing with gear.

Best For: Enthusiasts seeking an immersive FPV drone experience with high-quality 4K video capabilities and extended flight options.

Pros:

• Immersive 155° field of view and high-quality 1/1.3-inch image sensor for superior 4K video capture.
• Includes three Intelligent Batteries, enhancing flight time for more extensive aerial exploration.
• User-friendly with intuitive motion controls and the LightCut app for easy video editing.

Cons:

• Premium pricing may be a barrier for some potential buyers.

8. DJI Mavic 3 Classic

Specifications	Details
Flight Time	46 min (measured while flying at 32 kph in windless conditions)
Transmission Distance	15 km (FCC); 8 km (CE/SRRC/MIC)
Weight	895 g
Battery	5000 mAh, LiPo 4S
Max Speed	58 kph (S Mode)
Size	Folded (without propellers): 221×96.3×90.3 mm Unfolded (without propellers): 347.5×283×107.7 mm
Camera	4/3″ CMOS Effective Pixels: 20 MP FOV: 84° Format Equivalent: 24 mm Aperture: f/2.8-f/11

You’ll capture stunning aerial photos and videos with the DJI Mavic 3 Classic‘s advanced 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad Camera, making it an ideal choice for photography enthusiasts and professionals alike. You’ll appreciate its ability to shoot in 5.1K HD, ensuring your images are crisp and detailed.

With a flight time of up to 46 minutes and a 15km HD video transmission range, you can explore and capture more without worrying about running out of time or losing connection.

The included DJI RC remote controller, with its built-in 5.5-inch HD display, enhances your flying experience, allowing for seamless control and monitoring. Plus, its omnidirectional obstacle sensing and advanced Return to Home features keep your drone safe during complex maneuvers and automatic returns.

Best For: aerial photography enthusiasts and professionals looking for high-quality imaging and extended flight capabilities.

Pros:

• Equipped with a 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad Camera for superior image quality.
• Long flight time of up to 46 minutes and a 15km HD video transmission range.
• Features omnidirectional obstacle sensing and advanced Return to Home for safety.

Cons:

• Larger size may pose transport challenges.

9. DJI Mini 4 Pro

Specifications	Details
Flight Time	34 minutes (with Intelligent Flight Battery) 47 minutes (with Intelligent Flight Battery Plus*)
Transmission Distance	FCC: 20 km SRRC: 10 km CE: 10 km MIC: 10 km
Weight	34 minutes (with Intelligent Flight Battery) and 47 minutes (with Intelligent Flight Battery Plus*)
Max Speed	16 m/s (S Mode) 12 m/s (N Mode) 6 m/s (C Mode)
Size	Folded (without propellers): 148×94×64 mm (L×W×H) Unfolded (with propellers): 258×373×101 mm (L×W×H)
Camera	1/1.3-inch CMOS, Effective Pixels: 48 MP FOV 82.1° Format Equivalent: 24 mm Aperture: f/1.7 Focus: 1 m to ∞ ISO Range: 100-6400 Max Image Size: 8000×6048

If you’re seeking a lightweight yet powerful drone, DJI’s Mini 4 Pro, featuring a 4K HDR video camera and omnidirectional obstacle sensing, is an ideal choice.

Weighing under 249 grams, it boasts a 34-minute flight time, allowing you extended sessions to capture stunning vertical videos in 4K/60fps HDR. Its omnidirectional vision sensing enhances safety by detecting obstacles from all directions.

You’ll appreciate the real-time aerial footage with a 20km FHD video transmission range. The ActiveTrack 360° lets you customize intelligent tracking, ensuring your subject stays in frame effortlessly.

Plus, the bundle includes handy Deco Gear accessories, making it a well-rounded package for both hobbyists and professionals looking for a compact, high-performing drone.

Best For: Enthusiasts and professionals in need of a compact, feature-rich drone for high-quality aerial photography and video.

Pros:

• Extended 34-minute flight time allows for longer sessions of aerial photography.
• Omnidirectional obstacle sensing adds a layer of safety by preventing collisions from any direction.
• Real-time FHD video transmission up to 20km ensures high-quality footage with minimal delay.

Cons:

• Higher price point may not be suitable for beginners or casual users.

10. DJI FPV Drone Combo with 4K Camera and Goggles V2

Specifications	Details
Flight Time	Approx. 20 mins (measured while flying at 40 kph in windless conditions)
Transmission Distance	10 km (FCC), 6 km (CE), 6 km (SRRC), 6 km (MIC)
Weight	Approx. 795 g (with propellers)
Battery	2000 mAh, LiPo 6S, 22.2V
Max Speed	Mode Speed S Mode 39 m/s (27 m/s in Mainland China) N Mode 15 m/s
Size	255×312×127 mm (with propellers) 178×232×127 mm (without propellers)
Camera	1/2.3-inch CMOS, 12 MP, 4K video

For adrenaline-packed aerial filming, the DJI FPV Drone Combo with its 4K Camera and Goggles V2 is your top choice, offering dynamic flight modes and immersive viewing capabilities.

Included in this combo are the drone, a set of smart batteries, propellers, and more, ensuring you’re equipped for any shooting scenario.

You’ll enjoy the ultra-wide 150° field of view and crisp 4K/60fps video capability, making every flight an epic filming opportunity.

Switch between S Mode for simplified FPV control, N Mode for safety-enhanced beginner-friendly operation, or M Mode to engage full piloting control.

The RockSteady Stabilization minimizes camera shake, while the ADS-B system keeps you informed of nearby aircraft, enhancing safety. Practice on the DJI Virtual Flight App to hone your skills safely.

Best For: Enthusiasts and filmmakers looking for an immersive and dynamic aerial filming experience with advanced safety features.

Pros:

• Immersive 150° field of view and 4K/60fps video capabilities for high-quality footage.
• Multiple flight modes including S Mode for dynamic FPV, N Mode for beginners, and M Mode for full control.
• Includes advanced safety features like ADS-B system to alert of nearby manned aircraft.

Cons:

• Short flight time of approximately 12 minutes per battery can limit extended filming sessions.

Here are some more DJI Guides, that might be helpful for you:
How To Fix DJI SD Card Errors: Step By Step Guide
5 Best DJI Air 2s SD Cards for Optimal Performance In 2024
Exploring and Mastering DJI Flight Modes: The Ultimate Guide
How Long Do DJI Batteries Last? [Unveiling the Truth] (2024)
Solving DJI Remote ID Error: A Comprehensive Guide (2024)
DJI File Recovery: How to Recover Lost Files from Formatted Memory?

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best DJI Drones in 2024

When selecting a DJI drone, it’s important to evaluate several key factors to guarantee you find the best fit for your needs.

You’ll want to examine performance metrics like speed and stability, evaluate the camera quality for clear, high-resolution images, and take into account battery life and flight time to maximize your flying sessions.

Additionally, features like obstacle avoidance are vital for safe and efficient operation, especially in complex environments.

Drone Performance Metrics

Evaluating drone performance metrics is vital in selecting the right DJI drone for your needs. Key factors include flight time, maximum speed, takeoff weight, and wind resistance, which all determine how your drone will perform in various conditions.

Additionally, you’ll want to ponder connectivity features such as transmission range and the types of wireless technologies used, which affect how far and how effectively you can control your drone.

Camera Quality Assessment

Evaluating camera quality is vital when selecting a DJI drone. This involves highlighting features such as resolution, sensor size, and HDR capabilities. I always inspect the resolution, whether it’s 4K or 5.1K, to make sure I’m obtaining sharp video and images.

It’s important to take into account the sensor type, typically a CMOS, which is excellent for low-light conditions and provides clearer pictures. HDR is another aspect I look for; it significantly improves color accuracy and contrast, making the footage stand out. I check the megapixel count to ensure sharp, detailed stills.

Additionally, I don’t overlook other camera functionalities like zoom capabilities, stabilization features, and special shooting modes, which all contribute to versatile and professional-quality results.

Battery Life Considerations

How crucial is battery life when selecting a DJI drone for your specific needs?

It’s absolutely essential. Battery life dictates how long I can fly my drone, impacting everything from leisure flying to professional aerial photography.

With DJI models offering anywhere from 13 to 46 minutes of flight time, I always consider what I’ll be using the drone for. For instance, the DJI Mavic 3 Pro’s hefty 59.29 Amp Hours means longer airtime for capturing extensive footage.

However, it’s not just about duration. Factors like wind resistance, flight speed, and the weight of any additional equipment can drain the battery faster.

Therefore, I choose a drone whose battery life aligns with my specific needs, ensuring a successful and enjoyable flying experience.

Flight Time Importance

When selecting a DJI drone, I prioritize flight time because it directly impacts how much I can achieve during each session. Longer flight times enable me to capture more footage or cover larger areas without the frequent breaks for recharging.

I’ve observed that factors such as battery capacity, the drone’s weight, and even flying conditions such as wind or temperature play a significant role in how long my drone can stay airborne. Additionally, the type of flying maneuvers, whether hovering or making fast movements, affects battery life.

As a result, I always consider what I need from my drone sessions to choose a model with a flight time that meets my specific requirements, balancing it against other features like camera quality and range.

Obstacle Avoidance Features

Obstacle avoidance technology is essential for DJI drones, using sensors to detect and navigate around obstacles, ensuring safer flights. These sensors are a game-changer, particularly for beginners or when flying in tight spots. They scan multiple directions, greatly reducing the risk of collisions.

This tech isn’t just about avoiding crashes; it makes flying more enjoyable and stress-free, especially in complex environments. Whether you’re piloting manually or using autonomous modes, these features provide peace of mind. Advanced models even offer omnidirectional avoidance, which covers nearly every angle.

It’s important for ensuring smooth, safe operations, making it a top consideration for any drone enthusiast aiming for worry-free flight experiences.

Conclusion

Choosing the right DJI drone in 2024 depends on your specific needs, whether you’re a beginner or a pro. For top-quality imaging, consider the Mavic series with Hasselblad cameras.

If portability and ease are your priorities, the Mini series is ideal. For immersive flight experiences, the DJI FPV combo is unmatched.

Always consider factors like camera quality, flight time, and portability before making your purchase. With the right DJI drone, you’ll elevate your aerial photography and videography to new heights.