Introduction
Drones have become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more people using them for various purposes such as photography, videography, and even delivery services. As the demand for drones continues to grow, so does the competition among manufacturers to produce the best quality drones. One brand that has stood out in the drone market is DJI, known for their high-quality and innovative products.
One of their latest releases, the DJI Mavic Air 2, has been making waves in the drone community. Packed with advanced features and impressive specifications, this drone has been receiving rave reviews from both professionals and hobbyists alike. In this review, we will take a closer look at the DJI Mavic Air 2 and see if it lives up to its hype.
Overview of DJI Mavic Air 2
The DJI Mavic Air 2 is the successor to the popular Mavic Air, released in 2018. This new model improves upon its predecessor in many ways, making it a top choice for drone enthusiasts. The Mavic Air 2 boasts a longer flight time, improved camera quality, and a wider range compared to the previous model.
It also comes with a sleek and compact design, making it easy to transport and store. The drone measures 7.3 x 3.8 x 3.3 inches when folded and weighs only 570 grams, making it one of the most portable drones in its category. The Mavic Air 2 is available in two color options: grey and black, giving users the freedom to choose according to their preference.
Design and Features
When it comes to design, the Mavic Air 2 maintains the iconic foldable shape of its predecessor. However, it now sports a more streamlined and modern look, with a redesigned body and arms. The drone also comes with four LED lights on each arm, making it easier to spot and navigate in low light conditions.
One of the most notable features of the Mavic Air 2 is its improved obstacle avoidance system. It now has sensors on the front, back, and bottom, allowing for more accurate and precise obstacle detection. This feature is crucial for ensuring a safe flight and preventing any accidents or collisions.
The drone also comes with a new and improved controller, featuring an ergonomic design and a built-in cell phone holder. The controller also has a better grip, making it more comfortable to hold for longer periods. Additionally, it has a range of up to 10 kilometers, giving users the freedom to explore and capture footage from a distance.
Camera Quality
One of the main selling points of the DJI Mavic Air 2 is its impressive camera quality. The drone comes equipped with a 1/2-inch CMOS sensor, capable of capturing 12-megapixel photos and 4K videos at 60 frames per second. It also has a maximum video bitrate of 120 Mbps, which is higher than other drones in its category.
The Mavic Air 2 also features a 3-axis gimbal, providing stable footage even in windy conditions. The gimbal also allows for smooth and steady movements, making the footage look more professional and polished. Additionally, the drone has various shooting modes such as Hyperlapse, QuickShots, and ActiveTrack, allowing users to capture unique and creative shots.
Performance and Flight Experience
In terms of performance, the Mavic Air 2 does not disappoint. It comes with a new and improved flight controller, offering a more stable and responsive flight experience. The drone can reach a top speed of 68.4 kph (42.5 mph) in sport mode, making it one of the fastest consumer drones on the market.
Flying the Mavic Air 2 is a breeze, thanks to its intelligent flight modes and features. It has the ability to fly autonomously using its sensors and advanced algorithms, making it perfect for beginners who may not be familiar with manual flying. The drone also has a Return-to-Home feature that will automatically bring it back to its take-off location in case of low battery or signal loss.
Battery Life and Range
The Mavic Air 2 comes with an upgraded battery, providing up to 34 minutes of flight time, which is significantly longer compared to its predecessor. This extended flight time allows users to capture more footage and explore further without having to worry about running out of battery.
In terms of range, the Mavic Air 2 can go up to 10 kilometers, thanks to its improved OcuSync 2.0 transmission system. This means that users can fly the drone to a greater distance without losing connection or experiencing any video lag. However, it is important to note that the maximum range may vary depending on factors such as weather conditions and interference.
Remote Controller and App
The Mavic Air 2 comes with a remote controller that connects to your phone via a USB cable. This allows for a larger and clearer view of the live feed from the drone’s camera. The controller also has dedicated buttons for taking photos and videos, making it easier to operate while flying.
The DJI Fly app is available for both iOS and Android devices and is used to control the Mavic Air 2. The app has a user-friendly interface, making it easy to navigate and access various settings. It also offers a variety of intelligent flight modes, allowing users to capture stunning footage with just a few taps.
Pricing and Availability
The DJI Mavic Air 2 is priced at $799, making it one of the more affordable drones in its category. It is available for purchase through DJI’s official website and authorized retailers worldwide. The drone comes with a standard package that includes the Mavic Air 2, remote controller, battery, charger, and necessary cables and accessories.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Sleek and compact design
- Improved obstacle avoidance system
- Impressive camera quality
- Long flight time and range
- User-friendly interface and intelligent flight modes
- Affordable price point compared to other drones with similar capabilities
Cons:
- No side or upward obstacle avoidance sensors
- Limited compatibility with older DJI drones’ batteries and accessories
- No ActiveTrack 3.0 feature yet (to be released in future firmware update)
Conclusion
The DJI Mavic Air 2 is undoubtedly one of the best consumer drones currently available on the market. It offers a perfect combination of portability, advanced features, and impressive specifications at an affordable price point. Whether you are a professional photographer or videographer looking for a reliable and high-quality drone, or a hobbyist who wants to capture stunning aerial footage, the Mavic Air 2 is definitely worth considering.
With its improved performance, longer flight time, and upgraded camera quality, the Mavic Air 2 is a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the Mavic Air. It also has a user-friendly interface and various intelligent flight modes that make it suitable for beginners as well. Overall, the DJI Mavic Air 2 is a top contender in the drone market and is definitely worth the investment for anyone looking for a high-quality and reliable drone.
