This isn’t the first time that DJI has launched stripped down, non-Pro variants of its current generation products months after the debut of the initial model. In fact, the brand recently launched the Classic model in November, which is basically a more affordable version of the Mavic 3 Pro, but with some key features omitted. That being said, you can expect the newly released standard variant of the Mini 3 series to receive the same treatment. For starters, the DJI Mini 3 comes with the same 48 MP 1/1.3-inch sensor as the Pro variant, though it can only snap images at 12 MP through pixel-binning and also record 4K videos at 30 fps. Also retained is the 3-axis gimbal for stabilised shots, as well as the ability to capture photos and videos in both horizontal and vertical formats. The Pro variant (left) and the regular DJI Mini 3 (right) [Image: DJI]Much like its sibling, the newer drone is capable of achieving a maximum flight distance of 18 km when used with the standard battery, while equipping it with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus pack will enable it to hit a longer distance of up to 25 km. Additionally, it still comes with several built-in features such as QuickShots, QuickTransfer, Auto Takeoff and Return to Home, but loses the MasterShots function.
While the regular Mini 3 shares the same foldable design and size as the Pro, there are some slight differences. These include the lack of front and rear sensors which causes it to lose the Tri-Directional Obstacle Sensing system from its high-end sibling. Instead, the drone relies on its downward sensors, as well as the onboard GNSS and infrared sensors for obstacle avoidance and autonomous flight. Video transmission range is also reduced to 10 km, as the vanilla model comes with DJI’s OcuSync 2 rather than the OcuSync 3 system that’s featured on the Pro model. On the flipside, the reduced features actually benefits the regular Mini 3 in terms of battery life. More specifically, this particular model is capable of achieving a flight time of around 38 minutes when equipped with the standard battery pack, or a whopping 51 minutes if used with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus pack. The new Mini 3 is now available for purchase in Malaysia via the DJI experience stores in Sunway Pyramid and Pavillion, as well as its official online stores on Shopee and Lazada. Pricing-wise, the drone on its own retails at RM 1,999 , while the standard bundle costs RM 2,399, standard bundle with DJI RC controller at RM 3,099, Fly More Combo Plus at RM 3,299, and Fly More Combo Plus with DJI RC controller at RM 3,999. For your reference, what sets the RC controller apart from the regular offering is the addition of a built-in display on its body. (Source: DJI Malaysia [Shopee] [Lazada] [official website])