DJI Mini 2 Vs Mavic Air 2: Which Is The Best For You?

One of the most important considerations when buying a new drone is the DJI Mini 2 vs Mavic Air 2 comparison. It is up to you to choose the drone that best meets your demands because the two drones have extremely distinct features.

The detailed comparison of these two drones will be handled by Lucidcam in this post.

DJI Mini 2 Vs Mavic Air 2 – General

What is DJI Mini 2?

The Mini 2 ($449.99), DJI’s second-generation entry-level drone, receives a slight rebrand by doing away with the Mavic name that has long been used to describe the company’s line of compact, folding quadcopters. Although it costs a little more than the original Mavic Mini, it has an improved camera, more potent motors, and a more reliable remote control connection.

Although it lacks some of the more sophisticated capabilities found in the $800 Mavic Air 2, it’s a good option if you want to save money and stay out of FAA’s way, earning our Editors’ Choice award.

Pros:

• Stabilized 4K camera quality
• Raw and JPG photo modes
• Automated Quickshots
• Long flight time
• Stronger motors and connection than Mavic Mini
• GPS and other safety features
• No FAA registration required

Cons:

• Still no color profiles for JPGs and video
• Omits obstacle sensors and HDR
• Doesn’t include ActiveTrack or Hyperlapse

What is Mavic Air 2?

The Mavic Air 2 ($799.99) is DJI’s mid-range offering in their line of compact, foldable drones. It has various safety measures and can fit in most camera cases. With its Quad Bayer design, the camera can record 4K HDR video and clear, detailed photos. The footage is fluid. If you’re searching for a drone that won’t set you back more than $1,000, our Editors’ Choice is the Mavic Air 2.

Pros:

• Superlative battery life
• A strong image and video quality
• Obstacle detection and avoidance
• Automated shots
• HDR video and Raw imaging
• AirSense transponder

Cons:

• Video profiles limited to standard and flat
• App-based editing limited to 1080p output
• Remote omits EV control wheel
• Not easy to get Raw images to your tablet or smartphone

What is The Same?

The DJI Mini 2 and Mavic Air 2 both have a 10 km video transmission range and an OcuSync 2.0 transmission system, however, the Mavic Air 2 has a quicker top speed of 64 km/h and a 34-minute flight time.

Although the Mavic Mini 2 and Mavic Air 2 have a significantly longer range, all three versions feature the OcuSync 2.0 transmission mechanism for steady, long-range video transmission.

The Mavic 2 series drones are the quickest and can travel up to 72 km/h in S-Mode, but they also feature the same wind resistance as the other two models and the same temperature range as the Mavic Air 2.

DJI Mini 2 Vs Mavic Air 2 – Comparison

Design and Build

It is clear that DJI wants to standardize drone looks so that every Mavic we see will resemble a massive Chinese drone. The Mini 2’s frame and arm folding mechanism are almost comparable to those of the DJI Mavic Air 2. Both drones can fit into most backpacks after folding.

The Mini 2 still provides a method for installing the battery, though. Each drone has a flap on the back that opens upward to reveal a compartment where the battery may be placed. For the DJI Mavic Air 2, the procedure is a little easier. It must be positioned in the designated location starting from the top.

An essential distinction is made by sensors. Sensors are necessary. Front and back sensors are absent from the DJI Baby. The more expensive models sometimes come with a much better tracking feature that lets us choose which object the drone will follow. This option would be exceedingly unsafe and could cause the Mini 2 to crash because it lacks sensors.

Still, neither drone weighs more than 600 grams. DJI Mavic Air 2.570g and DJI Mini 2 249g. If the drones can fly in the city’s airspace, they can be used in Poland without any further authorization. For heavier multi-rotors, the problem is more challenging.

Other permissions are not necessary in order to fly them. Buildings must be kept at least 100 meters away from us, as well as any strangers (30m horizontally). Drones that weigh less than 600g will be flown by the operator. Any accident that might happen is the operator’s fault.

The DJI Mavic Air 2’s propeller mounting mechanism is a huge plus. It is quick, straightforward, and simple to use. You just need to push the propeller and twist it to finish. The issue with the DJI Mini 2 is more complicated. The bundle includes the spare screws and a screwdriver needed to mount the propellers.

Each propeller consists of two sections and is fastened together with a single screw. This substantially lengthens the time needed for replacement. The DJI Mini 2 solution will be quite difficult for people who need to change propellers outside. In these circumstances, it is simpler to lose the screws. The drone can end up being grounded as a result.

It is important to remember that cooling is equally crucial. The DJI Mini 2 emphasizes passive cooling. No fans will be found inside the drone. The device is cooled by a heat sink at the housing’s base. Because there is greater room inside the enclosure, the DJI Mavic Air 2 has active cooling through a fan.

Temperature causes the fan speed to rise. In order to maintain ideal operating temperatures, Air 2 includes a sizable heat sink that is situated in the lower part of the housing. This increases the ventilation system’s effectiveness.

Speed and Manoeuvrability

In terms of meters per second, it is nearly hard to characterize the flight characteristics of drones. Once you become a pilot, the sensation will come naturally. Because it is lighter than the Mavic 2, the Mavic Mini 2 is more maneuverable. Flying is enjoyable because of how beautiful it is. In a race, it won’t be able to keep up with the Mavic 2 though.

Due to the GPS and altitude sensors on both drones, they can hover in moderately strong gusts. Compared to Air 2, Mavic 2 has greater horizontal strength. The Mavic Mini 2’s firmware, which has been improved since its predecessor, allows it to lean up to 40 degrees towards the wind to stop drifting.

The wind resistance that is stated is the same. However, because of its relatively potent engines, the Air 2 felt more at ease in heavy crosswinds.

The Mavic 2’s operating range is from -10@ to 40%C, but the Mavic Mini 2’s operating range is at freezing point, making the Mavic 2 more suitable for harsh situations.

Mountaineers will value the Air 2’s capacity to ascend to 5000 meters above sea level, which is 1000 meters higher than the Mavic Mini 2.

The fact that both drones descend at slower rates than they ascend may interest you. Props moving slower take a little longer to compensate for the natural instability that hovering causes. On the other hand, upgrade can be quicker and is partially self-correcting.

Camera Performance

Consumer drones can record spectacular aerial footage and original photographs in addition to being entertaining. Before drones had cameras, you had to hire a helicopter to get an aerial view of your house or a magnificent natural sight.

When choosing a drone for filmmaking, the Mavic Air 2’s camera quality is the most important factor. The Mavic Mini 2, however, falls short in this regard.

The camera of the Mavic 2 contains a half-inch CMOS sensor. Due to its 12MP and 48MP (JPEG, RAW) effective pixels, it may be used in low light and generates slightly crisper and larger files. The video resolution is 1080p with a maximum frame rate of 240 frames per second, 4K or 2.5K at 60 frames per second, and HDR (High-Density Ranging) variations of all three.

The camera in the Mavic Mini 2 has a 1/2.3″ CMOS smaller sensor and a 12MP pixel count (JPEG or RAW). The Mavic Mini’s predecessor recorded video in 4K and 2.7K at 30 frames per second, still images in DNG Raw for easier tinkering, and 1080p at 60 frames per second.

For those who are familiar with color grading, the Air 2’s ability to film in a flat color profile makes it considerably simpler to edit in post-processing.

Flight Performance

If the Mavic Air 2 and the Mavic Mini 2 had been compared to their predecessors, the Air 2 would have won. All of that has changed thanks to the Mavic Mini 2’s new Level 5-wind resistance rating and significantly increased video transmission range.

Both drones have DJI’s OcuSync 2.0, which provides rock-steady video transmission across distances of up to 10 km and can fly in gusts up to 10.5 m/s (23 mph) (users should note that it is illegal to fly any drone beyond the line of sight).

DJI Mini 2 is outpaced by the Mavic Air 2 by 42.5 mph. The DJI Mavic Mini 2 is now more prepared to return in a headwind than its predecessor, despite the fact that it is unimportant.

When tested with a fully charged battery, the flying times of the Mavic Air 2 (and Mini 2 DJI) are fairly comparable. The DJI Mini 2’s flight time of 31 minutes is slightly shorter than the Air 2’s maximum flying time of 34 minutes. Even while those extra three minutes would be useful, you’ll probably discover that your drone rarely flies for longer than that. Because flying a drone can be exhausting, you’ll only do it for ten to fifteen minutes at a time.

In the air, both drones perform just as well. They are simple to control and comparably steady in GPS hover mode. What’s the outcome?

Controller And Range

The DJI Air 2 and Mini 2 have extremely similar appearances. Both of them utilize DJI’s OcuSync 2.0 radio technologies, which improve the signal’s dependability. This implies that it ought to operate within acceptable bounds. The same application can be made of both. When you get at your destination, take the phone grip and attach your phone before charging the remote.

The Air 2 does provide a better 1080p live view. The difference between a 720p and 1080p video preview, though, isn’t as useful as you might think on a regular phone screen. What counts is that the video you’re recording is to a Micro SD card on board, which should be uninterrupted any way.

Why DJI decided to use it for a couple of their models is obvious. The control sticks may be removed to free up more room, and they have bays to attach to. It could even accommodate an iPhone 12 Pro in its original case. Additionally, there is a location for the cable to connect to your phone underneath the phone grip and pop-up antenna. The cable is in a neat location, which is convenient, and they are short, which is wonderful.

The ability to charge your phone with the remote is a fantastic feature. This keeps your phone from running out of battery life and keeps your screen bright while operating a drone.

Battery Life

• Mini 2: Flight time: 31 minutes
• Mavic Air 2: Flight Time: 34 Minutes

The Air 2’s 3500mAh 3S battery, which weighs in at 198g, allows slightly longer flight times.

DJI’s built-in charge meter is available on the Air 2 battery. This allows you to quickly check the charge (to within quarters) with a single button. This feature is not available on the DJI Mavic Mini 2, so managing multiple batteries can be a bit more complicated.

DJI Mini 2 Vs Mavic Air 2 – Gimbal

The 198g, 3500mAh 3S battery in the Air 2 enables for somewhat longer flight periods.

On the Air 2 battery, there is a charge meter created by DJI. With just one button, you can rapidly check the charge (to within quarters). Managing several batteries can be a little trickier with the DJI Mavic Mini 2 since this feature is not available.

The DJI Mavic Mini 2 still manages to capture video quite smoothly, even against heavier drones. And since both can tilt to the artistically helpful -90@ (straight up), there’s very little between them.

Wind Resistance

The opinion of wind resistance is divided. They occasionally even wager money while pushing these drones to their limits. My testing phase for these Mavic drones is presently underway. Get the video as soon as it becomes available by subscribing.

With ratings of 29 to 38 kph, both drones can withstand wind at the same speed.

Despite my belief that the truth is essentially true, I can only share my two key takeaways from using the DJI Mavic Mini 2. (which has been at least one week since I got it).

Compared to the original Mini, it is noticeably more wind-resistant.

Due to the DJI Mavic Air 2’s heavier design, it is less stable than the Air 2. The main cause of the footage shaking was this.

These DJI drones are swift, however the DJI Mavic Mini 2 cannot match the DJI Air 2. (which can fly at a speed of 69kph or 42mph).

Due to this combination, the Air 2 has the benefit of facing stronger winds.

By using a higher maximum speed, you can cover more ground while consuming less power. Additionally, you will be able to track and capture fast-moving objects in any weather, including autos.

Obstacle Avoidance

My subscribers claim that the Mavic 2’s capability to track and avoid obstacles is what most appeals to customers.

The Mavic 2 has two sensors up front and two sensors down below. It can employ the APAS avoidance system to navigate through challenging terrain or halt when it collides with an object. The Obstacle Avoidance System is demonstrated here.

The front-facing sensors on the Mavic 2 enable follow-me modes and activity monitoring. Soon, more details will be accessible.

The Mavic 2 also has an LED at the bottom. This makes your drone easier to see at night.

Intelligent Flight Modes

The DJI Fly App can be utilized with either drone. There are some variations in what you can accomplish there, though.

The intelligent flight modes are where there is the biggest difference. They have rapid shots that are nearly identical.

Just two examples of the numerous pictures you can take with a drone are the Air 2 active track and point of interest. When there is a subject in the scene, I find it easier to frame the shot.

Another fantastic benefit of the DJI Mavic Mini 2 is that it makes recording and editing simpler.

Autonomous Modes

Both of these models have the ability to shoot stills and videos on their own, but the Mavic 2 has a few extra features. Both versions support the dronie and helix, rockets, circle, boomerang, and rocket QuickShots. You may choose the subject, and the DJI drones will automatically record it from a number of cinematic viewpoints, using the companion DJI Fly App.

The pilot’s input is not required. Also capable of taking panoramas and hyper-lapse video stills are both drones. The only drone with Active Track is the Mavic Air 2, which enables it to follow the user while recording.

Price

The DJI mini 2 and Mavic Air 2 have base prices of $449 and $799, respectively. Costs for the Mini 2 and Air 2’s Fly More combo packages are $599, $988, and $988, respectively. When comparing various drones, it is crucial, in my opinion, to take the cost into account.

At a Glance

DJI Mini 2 vs Mavic Air 2: Which is better for you?

The DJI Mini 2 or Air 2 can be seen from two different angles: Features and Weight vs. Features & Price. The first question is simple to answer because you are not required to weigh under 250g, but the second is up to you. It can be used to save your FAA registration in the USA, but if you want to utilize the camera, you must register in the UK.

It can be challenging to determine whether the Air 2’s more robust feature set is worth the additional cost, but it is important to start by determining how you plan to use the drone.

The finest drone for anyone who wants to fly for fun and record photographs and videos for their family and friends is the DJI Mini 2. Additionally, because of its size and weight advantages, you may take it to even more locations that are deserving of being immortalized.

The two drones’ construction quality is unimportant. But the bigger Air 2 feels more substantial, making it better suited for regular travelers. The drone’s features will be useful to professionals, serious enthusiasts, and filmmakers who need to take a lot more follow-up shots.

For busy content producers, the Air 2 is a terrific consumer drone. You never know when you’ll need to film at faster frame rates or utilize a high dynamic range to its fullest. If these features are unfamiliar to you, though, you should consider whether you would ever use them.

For novices who don’t worry about price, the Air 2 is a wonderful choice. The straightforward justification is that collision sensors are preferable to none at all. All other features are perks.

Read more:

• DJI Mini Vs Mini 2: Which One is Better For You?
• DJI Mavic 3 Vs Mavic 2 Pro 2023 Which Is Better For You

What about the Air 2s?

It’s also worth noting that for some photographers who can see the appeal of the dji air 2, the DJI Air 2S might have some temptations too.

For a little more money and a little less flight time, you can hoist a 1-inch image sensor aloft in a similar airframe (albeit with even more collision sensors).

FAQs about DJI Mini 2 and Mavic Air 2

Is the DJI Mini 2 better than the Mavic Air 2?

Both are extremely quick, however, the Mavic Air 2 has the advantage because it can fly at up to 69 km/h as opposed to the Mini 2’s 58 km/h.

These two things come together. demonstrates once more that the Mavic Air 2 has an advantage while dealing with severe gusts.

Is DJI Mini 2 a professional drone?

The overall design was made quite easily and simply by DJI. It can now shoot 4K with a picture that is generally significantly crisper than its predecessor while having an exceptionally compact size and weight (comparable to last year).

Is there a better drone than the DJI Mini 2?

The Hubsan Zino Mini Pro, a drone that weighs under 250 grams and has a 3-axis gimbal and “follow me” feature, is the best substitute for the DJI Mini 2. The addition of forward sensors and a 40-minute battery further enhances it over the Mini 2.

Is it worth buying DJI Mini 2?

The DJI Mini 2 is a terrific drone, in relative terms. In comparison to other drones on the market, the price is reasonable, and the actual drone is simple to use, dependable, and incredibly practical.

With a weight under 250 grams, novice pilots have no entry-level restriction, and aerial photographers should be satisfied with the camera performance.

Should I get a DJI Mavic Air or a Mini?

The Mavic Air is slightly bigger than the Mavic Mini and can endure gusts up to 38 kph while still being covered by warranty. The Mavic 2 has twice the Mavic Mini and Mavic Air range and a slightly longer battery life than the Mavic Mini.

Conclusion

There’s a reason that DJI Mavic drones are some of the most popular consumer drones on the market – they’re simply some of the best you can buy. It really comes down to what you want to use your drone for, and which of these great options will suit your needs the best.

Finally, thank you for reading this article and don’t forget to visit LucidCam to learn more useful information.