Looking to enter the world of aerial photography but torn between the DJI Mini 4K and Mini 3? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison to help you make an informed decision that matches your creative needs and budget.
Overview of DJI Mini 4K and Mini 3
Both drones fall into the lightweight category (under 249g), making them exempt from registration requirements in many countries. The Mini 4K serves as an excellent entry point for beginners, offering impressive 4K video quality at a more accessible price point. Meanwhile, the Mini 3 targets dedicated users with its superior low-light performance and advanced features like a rotating gimbal, perfect for social media content creation.
Design and Build Quality
| Specification | DJI Mini 4K | DJI Mini 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | Under 249g | 248g |
| Folded Dimensions | 138 x 81 x 58 mm | 148 x 90 x 62 mm |
| Unfolded Dimensions | 245 x 289 x 56 mm | 251 x 362 x 72 mm |
Key Features and Specifications
- Sensor Size – Mini 3: 1/1.3-inch 48 MP CMOS vs Mini 4K: 1/2.3-inch 12 MP CMOS
- Rotating Gimbal – Exclusive to Mini 3, enabling true vertical format videos
- Flight Modes – Both offer intelligent flight modes, with Mini 3 providing more advanced options
- Transmission System – Mini 3 offers superior range and stability
- Low-light Performance – Mini 3 excels with its larger sensor
Camera and Video Capabilities
While both drones capture 4K video at 30fps, their actual output quality differs significantly. The Mini 3’s advanced features, including 4K HDR recording and True Vertical Shooting, make it particularly appealing for social media content creators.
Camera Sensor and Performance
The Mini 3’s larger 1/1.3-inch 48MP CMOS sensor delivers superior image quality, especially in challenging lighting conditions. This advantage translates to better dynamic range and improved low-light performance compared to the Mini 4K’s 1/2.3-inch 12MP sensor.
Video Recording Options
- Resolution Options – Both offer 4K@30fps, 2.7K@60fps, and 1080p@60fps
- HDR Capability – Mini 3 exclusive feature for enhanced contrast and color accuracy
- Vertical Shooting – Mini 3’s rotating gimbal enables native vertical video capture
- Bit Rate – Both maintain 100 Mb/s for high-quality footage
- Social Media Optimization – Mini 3’s vertical shooting perfect for TikTok and Instagram Reels
Flight Performance and Battery Life
Battery life stands out as a key differentiator between these lightweight drones, with the Mini 3 taking a clear lead. While both models deliver impressive capabilities in the sub-249g category, your flight duration needs may ultimately guide your choice. The Mini 3’s extended battery life makes it particularly suitable for users requiring longer shooting sessions without frequent battery changes.
| Performance Metric | DJI Mini 4K | DJI Mini 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Flight Time | 31 minutes | 38 minutes |
| Wind Resistance | 38.5 km/h | 38.5 km/h |
| Maximum Altitude | 4 km | 4 km |
Flight Time Comparison
The DJI Mini 3 demonstrates superior flight endurance, offering 38 minutes of air time versus the Mini 4K’s 31 minutes under optimal conditions. This 22% increase in flight time can be crucial for capturing additional shots or extended exploration. The performance boost comes from the Mini 3’s larger 2453 mAh battery and optimized energy management system.
For maximum flight duration, the Mini 3’s Intelligent Flight Battery Plus extends operation to an impressive 51 minutes. While this pushes the drone above the 249g threshold, requiring registration in some regions, it offers unmatched flight time in its class – a significant advantage for professional users and longer projects that the Mini 4K cannot match.
Speed and Wind Resistance
- Wind Resistance – Both models handle winds up to 23.9 mph (38.5 km/h), equivalent to Level 5 on the Beaufort scale
- Positioning Systems – Utilize GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo for precise hovering
- Indoor Navigation – Feature downward vision systems for position holding in GPS-limited environments
- Stability Features – Identical hovering accuracy specifications
- Performance Limits – Similar speed capabilities and stabilization features
Price and Value for Money
The financial comparison between these drones reveals distinct market positioning. The DJI Mini 4K, priced at $299, serves as an accessible entry point, while the Mini 3’s sub-$500 price tag reflects its advanced capabilities, including larger sensor size and True Vertical Shooting functionality.
Standard Package vs Fly More Pack
| Package Option | DJI Mini 4K | DJI Mini 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Package | $299 | $469 |
| Fly More Pack | €439 | €529 |
| Fly More Pack with DJI RC | N/A | €649 |
User Reviews and Recommendations
- Beginner Feedback – Mini 4K praised for value and solid 4K footage
- Professional Users – Mini 3 preferred for superior low-light performance and vertical shooting
- Upgrade Patterns – Many users report starting with Mini 4K before upgrading to Mini 3
- Daylight Users – Find Mini 4K adequate for social media content
- Advanced Users – Favor Mini 3 for challenging lighting conditions and versatility
Pros and Cons of Each Model
| Model | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| DJI Mini 4K |
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| DJI Mini 3 |
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Which Drone is Right for You?
The DJI Mini 4K is ideal for:
- Beginners entering aerial photography
- Casual flyers with budget constraints
- Daytime shooting enthusiasts
- Users prioritizing maximum portability
- Social media content creators not requiring vertical shooting
The DJI Mini 3 is perfect for:
- Serious content creators
- Golden hour and low-light photographers
- Social media professionals needing vertical video
- Users requiring extended flight times
- Photographers seeking superior image quality
Consider the Mini 3 as a long-term investment if you anticipate growing into more sophisticated aerial photography or videography. While it demands a higher initial investment, its advanced capabilities may prevent costly upgrades in the future.