Three years after its release, the DJI Mini 2 continues to hold its position as a top choice for those venturing into the world of drones and aerial photography in 2023.
With the DJI Mini 4’s recent release, you have the luxury of choosing between the DJI Mavic Mini, DJI Mini 3 and (if you have the budget for it) the DJI Mini 4. But I’m here to tell you why the DJI Mini 2 is not to be overlooked yet.
For starters, it’s placed the DJI Mini 2 in a much more affordable position in the drone market for beginners and photographers to get their hands on.
Before we delve into the qualities that make the DJI Mini 2 still an exceptional drone, here’s a brief list of its specs so you can understand what you’re dealing with.
| Take off weight | 249g (including battery) |
| Max Vertical Height | 500 m |
| Max distance | 10 km |
| Max speed | 16 m/s (sport mode) |
| Max flight Time | 31 minutes |
| Wind Resistance | 29-38 kph |
| Camera | ½.3” CMOS 12 MP, Aperture f/2.8 |
| Lens | 35 mm Format Equivalent: 24mm |
| Gimbal stabilisation | 3-axis (tilt, roll, pan) |
Curious whether it’s worth buying a drone in 2023? Read to find out more.
Here are the reasons why the DJI Mini 2 is still the best drone for beginners in 2023:
Compatibility and portability
The DJI Mini 2 is incredibly lightweight and compact. To this day, it is still one of the most smallest and lightweight (professional) drones on the market.
Weighing only 249 grams (8.8 ounces), battery included, the Mini 2 is incredibly easy to carry around and transport.
As its weight is under the 250g weight class rule, the DJI Mini 2 can benefit from such regulations, allowing beginners to enjoy flying without encountering overly burdensome restrictions.
One of the significant advantages of its size is portability. The Mini 2’s arms and propellers are foldable, enabling it to be easily folded down to a compact form factor. This folding mechanism makes it highly convenient for storing the drone in small bags or even pockets, providing you with the flexibility to take it anywhere you go.
Setting up the drone for flight is also quick and straightforward. With its compact design, you can easily unpack and get the Mini 2 ready to fly within minutes. This is especially beneficial for beginners who may not want to spend a significant amount of time assembling or preparing the drone before each flight.
Moreover, the small size and lightweight nature of the DJI Mini 2 contribute to its manoeuvrability. It is agile and responsive in the air, allowing beginners to navigate it easily.
Additionally, the compact size of the DJI Mini 2 can offer some advantages when it comes to legal requirements and regulations. In certain countries or regions, drones under a specific weight threshold may be subject to less stringent regulations or restrictions.
Camera quality
Albeit small, the camera quality of the DJI Mini 2 does not disappoint. Sitting as a 12 megapixel camera with a 3-axis motorised gimbal, and wind resistance of up to 24mph, the Mini 2 captures smooth and stable images.
Whilst the latest cameras and drones are boasting their impressive 5K resolution, I don’t think that’s any reason to write off 4K just yet. 4K resolution remains exceptional in that it’s the go-to for movies, content creators, and even just showing off footage to your family.
This is why I think the DJI Mini 2 still holds up in 2023. The 4K/30fps is a step up from the earlier released Mavic Mini which only offered 2.7K/30fps and 1080p/60p. Additionally, you have the option of up to 2X zoom on 4K and 4X zoom on 1080p if there are subjects that just need a clearer eye.
Whether you’re creating content for YouTube, compiling stock footage, or crafting videos to share with your loved ones, the DJI Mini 2’s 4K capabilities are more than sufficient. Just take a look at that!
Moreover, those wanting to upgrade their photography skills to an aerial perspective can take full advantage of the Mini 2’s RAW and JPEG formats. The RAW formats allow edits and corrections to be made to photos without any loss of quality.
Want to learn more about DJI Mini 2 Photography? Check out our guide to DJI Mini 2 Photography.
Intelligent flight features
If you’ve ever watched professional content creators on YouTube, you’ve likely marvelled at the drone shots that showcase adrenaline-filled sports or cinematic sunsets. Techniques like zooming out and orbiting are just a glimpse of the drone’s potential to enhance your footage.
But, let’s be honest, as a beginner, coordinating these shots smoothly, whilst controlling the thumbsticks, and keeping the gimbal on the right track – all while dodging obstacles like stubborn trees – can be a bit of a learning curve. (Trust me, I’ve been there!)
For beginners, the DJI Mini 2 is a game-changer with the intelligent flight controls that it provides, making it a lot easier for beginners to capture impressive footage with limited input.
Now, I know what you’re saying. The more expensive and new DJI models boast WAY more features. Whilst this is true, the capabilities of the Mini 2 can weave together some truly remarkable footage.
This is not an exhaustive list, I’m only going to mention a couple of noteworthy ones.
Image features
- AEB Bracking – this is a cool feature where the drone captures three images at different levels of exposure. Normal, underexposed, and overexposed. So you’re guaranteed a shot with the correct exposure with one or stitch them all together. This is a handy way of capturing photos if you’re short of time or don’t want to be meddling with the settings too much.
- Panoramic – this is where the Mini 2 takes nine different shots which you can then merge at a later time which creates some amazing wide-angled shots.
Video features
Under Quickshots, you can find a range of intelligent flight modes that the DJI Mini 2 can perform.
By tapping on the video icon located above the record button in the DJI Fly app, you can access the Quickshots feature.* Here, you will see predefined flight paths where beginners can create professional footage in just a few taps – without needing to master complex manoeuvres.
- Dronie – fly away from subject
- Rocket – fly directly above subject
- Orbit – circle around subject
- Helix – by setting your desired distance, the drone will fly away from the subject revealing a dynamic background.
* Please note that an SD card needs to be inserted into the drone before these features will activate.
Beginner-friendly functions
DJI started with a great beginner-friendly drone idea, paid attention to community feedback, and designed a drone with beginners in mind.
It offers a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls. Its integrated features aim to make beginners enjoy an easy and stress-free experience when first flying their drone.
Flight tutorial
When you first unbox and set your drone up for take-off, the DJI Fly app offers an optional flight tutorial experience. This interactive tutorial guides beginners through the basic functions and controls of the drone, helping them become familiar with its features and flight modes. The step-by-step instructions and informative videos allow beginners to quickly grasp the essentials of flying the Mini 2.
The best bit is that users can return to this tutorial at any time, so if you want to brush up on your flight skills after a hiatus or a long winter of torrential weather, this can easily be done.
Intuitive Controls
The DJI Mini 2 is designed with simplicity in mind, featuring intuitive controls that are easy to understand and operate.
The dedicated remote controller has a streamlined layout with well-placed buttons and a comfortable grip, allowing beginners to navigate the drone with confidence. The controller’s ergonomic design ensures a comfortable and simple flying experience.
Quick Start
Getting the DJI Mini 2 ready for flight is a hassle-free process. Once the drone and remote controller are paired, you can power on the Mini 2, wait for it to establish a GPS signal, and take off within minutes.
Safety features
The DJI app offers customisable settings that put beginners at ease and give them a sense of control without overwhelming them. For instance, you can set maximum flight altitude and distance limits, ensuring that the drone stays within a range that you find comfortable. This is ideal especially when first flying, as it helps prevent any mishaps or unexpected movements, guaranteeing that you can keep the drone in sight at all times.
Affordability
Now, it’s time to mention what we all look for before buying a new gadget or good – the cost.
Standing at £309 currently, the DJI Mini 2 offers 4K/30fps video footage, <249g, beginner-friendly functions and an all-round great drone to begin your drone journey with.
Wanting the full package?
The DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo at £439 gives you more bang for your buck!
Besides the drone and controller, the combo bundle includes:
- Charging hub
- 3 batteries
- Cables
Ready to buy the DJI Mini 2?
This affordability makes it an attractive option for beginners who may not be ready to invest in higher-end drones but still want a reliable and capable device with a variety of fun features.
Compared to other drones with similar features and capabilities, the DJI Mini 2 offers an excellent balance between price and performance. It provides a comprehensive package that includes the drone, remote controller, battery, and necessary accessories, all at a relatively affordable price point.
Now we’ve explained why the DJI Mini 2 is still the best drone to buy in 2023, learn more about the Must-Have Accessories for the DJI Mini 2.
Key takeaways:
- Affordability: Priced at £309, the DJI Mini 2 offers exceptional value for your money. It’s an affordable entry point for beginners wanting to start their drone journey without breaking the bank. The DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo at £439 sweetens the deal with extra batteries, a charging hub, and essential accessories.
- Quality: Sporting 4K/30fps video capabilities and a lightweight design, the Mini 2 packs quality into a compact frame, offering a variety of features like AEB Bracketing and Panoramic shots.
- Features: The beginner-friendly controls and informative flight tutorials make it easy for new pilots to get off the ground. With Quickshots like Dronie and Orbit, professional-level footage can be captured with minimal input.
Upgrade from the Mavic Mini
A noteworthy upgrade from the Mavic Mini is that the Mini 2 does not rely on WiFi for transmission. Instead, it uses OcuSync 2.0, dual-frequency transmission, which automatically alternates between channels to prevent signal interference between the drone and controller. Originally, the Mavic Mini relied solely on WiFi for communication.
The Mavic Mini did not offer any intelligent flight features and this is where the upgrade to the Mini 2 shines. The DJI Mini 2 is also able to fly at a greater distance than the Mavic Mini.
Finally, I thought I’d leave you with a comparison table – putting the DJI Mini 2 against its predecessor, the Mavic Mini. I’ve highlighted the noteworthy differences.
| Mavic Mini | Mini 2 | |
| Weight | 249g | 249g |
| Folded size | 140x81x57 mm | 131x81x58 mm |
| Flight time | 30 minutes | 31 minutes |
| Photo format | JPEG | JPEG + RAW |
| Maximum flight distance | 4km | 10km |
| Zoom | None | 2X @ 4K, 2X @ 2.7K, 4X @ 1080p |
| Features | Timed shots | AEB, Panoramic |
| Video resolution | 2.7K/30 fps @40Mbps | 4K/30fps @100Mbps |
| Transmission | WiFi | OcuSync 2.0 |
As you can see the weight and flight time don’t really compare between both drones. However, what is interesting to look at is the range of features, formats, zoom and resolution offered by the Mini 2 that are limited in the Mavic Mini.
Conclusion
In 2023, the DJI Mini 2 maintains its reign as the go-to beginner drone. Despite the allure of newer models, this compact powerhouse boasts a compelling blend of affordability, quality, and intelligent features.
Priced at £309 and offering 4K video capabilities, it’s a budget-friendly gateway for beginner drone enthusiasts looking to toe-dip into the niche. Offering beginner-friendly functions, impressive flight range, and an array of intelligent flight controls, it’s certainly a notable upgrade from the Mavic Mini.
So, if you’re itching to take your first flight into the world of drones or elevate your content creation game, the DJI Mini 2 is a formidable choice that refuses to be overshadowed in 2023.
The DJI Mini 2 is beginner-friendly, powerful, and well, mini. Impressive performance, stunning image quality, and creative videos are just a few taps away.
