- HanJin
The Spark is a compact and lightweight drone that is perfect for beginners, while the Mavic Mini is a more advanced drone that is perfect for more experienced flyers. Both drones have amazing features and are perfect for different uses. The Spark is great for travelling and taking photos and videos, while the Mavic Mini is perfect for capturing footage of events or landscapes.
Lucidcam will also compare some side-by-side specifications about DJI Spark vs DJI Mavic Mini so you can get a better idea of how each model stacks up against its competition. You’ll be able to find everything from information about camera specs to flight time ranges.
Overview
DJI Spark Review
The DJI Spark is a mini drone that features all of DJI’s signature technologies, allowing you to seize the moment whenever you feel inspired. It also has intelligent flight control options and a mechanical gimbal, making it an ideal choice for both aerial photography and videography.
The Spark is also easy to fly, thanks to its intuitive controls and impressive safety features. Plus, with a max flight time of 16 minutes and a max range of 2 km, you’ll be able to explore your creativity like never before.
Pros
- Portable
- Strong Positioning and Mapping Systems
- Obstacle Avoidance
- Multiple Control Options
- Intelligent Flight Modes
- Detection Systems for Obstacles That Are Reasonably Priced
Cons
- Old-Fashioned Camera
- Quick and Easy Travel Time
- Low resistance to the wind
DJI Mavic Mini Review
The DJI Mavic Mini is a small yet powerful drone that turns the sky into your creative canvas easily and without worry, helping you make every moment an aerial moment. It weighs under 250 grams and fits in the palm of your hand, making it incredibly portable and easy to take with you wherever you go.
The Mavic Mini is equipped with a 3-axis gimbal and a 12MP camera that can shoot 2.7K Quad HD videos and capture stunning 32MP photos. It also comes with powerful safety features and a maximum flight time of 30 minutes.
Pros
- Reduced barriers to access
- Includes remote control.
- Long-lasting power from the battery
- Crystal clear 2.7K video and 12MP still images.
- Gimbal stabilization.
- motions of the camera that are cinematically automated
- a function known as “Find My Drone.”
- Does not need to be registered with the federal government.
Cons
- During testing, there were some problems with connectivity.
- Omits obstacle detecting sensors.
- There is not a 24fps video option.
- Does not support Raw photos or HDR photography.
DJI Spark vs DJI Mavic Mini: What is the Difference?
Specs comparison
DJI Spark DJI Mavic Mini
Design Foldable Foldable
Weight 300 g 249 g
Stabilization 2-Axis Gimbal 3-Axis Gimbal
Video 1080p 2.7K/30fps at 40 Mbps
Camera 1/2.3” CMOS 12 MP 1/2.3” CMOS, 12 MP
Max. Transmission 2 km (FCC) 4 km (FCC)
Max. Flight Time 16 minutes 30 minutes
App DJI GO 4 app DJI Fly app
Build & Design
DJI Mavic Mini DJI Spark
Size 160 x 202 x 55mm 124 x 143 x 55mm
Folded size 140 x 82 x 57mm –
Diagonal span 213mm 170mm
Sensors Downward Forward + Downward
When it comes to design, the DJI Spark and DJI Mavic Mini have some notable differences. Firstly, the DJI Spark is the more expensive option, costing $499, while the DJI Mavic Mini comes in at $399. In terms of size, the Spark is slightly smaller and lighter than the Mavic Mini, making it a more compact option for travel and on-the-go shooting.
Another major difference in design is the gimbal. The DJI Mavic Mini has a 3-axis gimbal, which provides more stability and allows for smoother video and photo capture. The DJI Spark, on the other hand, has a 2-axis gimbal, which is still effective, but not as advanced as the Mavic Mini’s.
Additionally, the Mavic Mini is capable of capturing 2.7K video at 30fps, while the Spark is limited to 1080p at 30fps. This makes the Mavic Mini a better option for those looking to capture higher quality video footage.
Both drones have a 12-megapixel camera and can take still photos in JPG and RAW format. However, the Mavic Mini has a longer maximum flight time of 30 minutes, compared to the Spark’s 16 minutes. It also has a longer maximum range of 4 kilometers, while the Spark has a maximum range of 2 kilometers.
Speed & Maneuverability
DJI Mavic Mini DJI Spark
Horizontal Speed 13 m/s 14 m/s
Ascent Speed 4 m/s 3 m/s
Descent Speed 3 m/s 3 m/s
When it comes to speed and maneuverability, both the DJI Spark and DJI Mavic Mini have their own strengths and weaknesses. The DJI Spark has a maximum speed of 31 mph in Sport Mode and can reach up to 50 km/h, while the DJI Mavic Mini has a maximum speed of 29 mph in Sport Mode and can reach up to 46.8 km/h.
While the Spark is slightly faster, the difference is negligible and is unlikely to be noticeable in most situations.
In terms of maneuverability, both drones are highly responsive and easy to control. The DJI Spark has a smaller frame and is more compact, making it easier to fly in tight spaces and navigate around obstacles.
It also has a feature called QuickShot, which allows users to capture professional-looking videos with just a few taps on the controller. The QuickShot modes include Rocket, Dronie, Circle, and Helix.
The DJI Mavic Mini, on the other hand, has a longer maximum flight time of 30 minutes, which allows for more time in the air and more opportunities to capture the perfect shot. It also has a feature called CineSmooth, which allows for smoother and more cinematic movements, perfect for capturing stunning aerial footage.
Battery life
- DJI Mavic Mini Flight time: 30 minutes
- DJI Spark Flight time: 16 mins
When it comes to battery life, the DJI Mavic Mini has a clear advantage over the DJI Spark. The Mavic Mini has a maximum flight time of 30 minutes, while the Spark has a maximum flight time of 16 minutes.
This means that users of the Mavic Mini can fly their drone for almost twice as long as those using the Spark, which can make a big difference in terms of the footage that can be captured.
Additionally, the Mavic Mini has a better power management system than the Spark, which allows it to optimize its battery usage and extend its flight time. The drone also has a feature called Return to Home, which automatically brings the drone back to its starting point when the battery level is low or when it loses connection with the remote controller.
The DJI Spark, on the other hand, does not have this feature, and users will need to manually monitor the battery level and return the drone to its starting point when the battery is low. However, the Spark does come with an extra battery included in the package, which can be swapped out for a fresh battery for extended flight time.
Gimbal
DJI Mavic Mini DJI Spark
Axis 3 (pitch, roll, yaw) 2 (pitch, roll)
Tilt -90˚ to +20˚ -85˚ to 0˚
The gimbal is a critical component in drone technology that helps stabilize the camera and reduce any unwanted movements or vibrations that could impact the quality of the footage. Both the DJI Spark and the DJI Mavic Mini have gimbals, but there are some key differences between them.
The DJI Spark features a 2-axis gimbal that is designed to stabilize the camera along two axes of movement. This means that it can compensate for any tilt or roll that the drone experiences, but it cannot compensate for any yaw or rotation. As a result, the footage captured by the Spark may not be as smooth as that captured by drones with 3-axis gimbals.
On the other hand, the DJI Mavic Mini features a 3-axis gimbal that can stabilize the camera along three axes of movement – tilt, roll, and yaw. This means that the Mini can compensate for more movements than the Spark, resulting in much smoother footage.
The additional axis of movement also allows the Mini to capture more complex shots and angles, making it a better option for users who want to capture high-quality footage.
Another significant advantage of the Mavic Mini’s gimbal is its range of movement. The Mini can tilt all the way down to a plan view at 90 degrees and up to 20 degrees. In comparison, the Spark can only tilt down to 85 degrees, limiting the range of movement and making it harder to capture certain shots and angles.
Control Range
- DJI Mavic Mini: FCC 2.5 miles (4000m)/CE 1.25 miles (2500m)
- DJI Spark: FCC – 1.25 miles (2000m), CE – 1600ft (500m)
When it comes to control range, the DJI Mavic Mini outperforms the DJI Spark. While the Spark can be controlled using a smartphone app, the Mavic Mini comes with a dedicated remote controller that offers a better connection and longer range.
The Mavic Mini’s remote controller allows for a maximum control range of 4 kilometers, which is twice as far as the Spark’s 2-kilometer range. This means that the Mavic Mini can fly farther and explore more areas without losing connection.
In addition to its longer range, the Mavic Mini’s remote controller also provides a more stable connection due to its use of OcuSync 2.0 transmission technology. This technology is found in DJI’s higher-end drones and offers a stronger and more reliable connection, even in areas with a lot of interference.
While the Spark can also be controlled using a smartphone app, its range is limited to 100 meters when using Wi-Fi. This is due to the fact that the Wi-Fi frequency used by smartphones is more susceptible to interference than the OcuSync 2.0 technology used by the Mavic Mini’s remote controller.
Stills
DJI Mavic Mini DJI Spark
Resolution 4000 x 3000 pixels 3968 ×2976
Sensor size 1/2.3-inch 1/2.3-inch
ISO range 100-3200 100-1600
Effective focal length (EFL) 24mm 25mm
These drones are almost identical in resolution. They also have 1 / 2 -inch imaging sensors, very similar to the ones found in mid-range phones.
The Mavic Mini appears to have benefited from spending a few more years refining DJI’s processing algorithms. It seems less susceptible to excessive saturation. However, neither aircraft can capture RAW images, so photographers generally agree.
To deal with bright sunlight, you can and may need to add ND filters. However, you should pay attention to the preview when you compose, as any blown highlights are likely to stay blown.
The Spark uses depth sensing to jazz up photos. It offers a cool ShallowFocus option at a social media-friendly 1440×1080 pixels and stitched panoramas in both horizontal and vertical. There are also Burst, Bracketing, and other options available. However, only 3 frames have a 0.7EV bias.
DJI Mavic Mini vs Spark -Video
DJI Mavic Mini DJI Spark
Resolution 2720×1530 @ 25/30fps, 1920×1080 @ 25/30/50/60fps 1920×1080 @ 20/30/50/60fps 1930×1080 @ 30fps
1920×1080 @ 25/30/50/60fps
Bitrate 40Mbps 24Mbps
Professionals may prefer 4K or 8K videos. However, drones with higher resolutions can cause more problems than they solve. If your videos are shared on YouTube, Instagram, etc., the Mavic Mini’s “2.7K resolution is an excellent solution.
You can easily slip a 2.7K shot in a 4K edit, and no one will notice. Although the video is very sharp and pleasing in quality, there will be some noise in low lighting due to its large sensor.
Spark is behind with a limit at 1080P (Full HD), but this is still a good resolution for most purposes. Although the bitrate is lower, it is still a good thing. However, there are fewer pixels, so the video is very pleasant quality.
The fact that there is no higher frame rate option on the Mavic Mini is more disappointing. This is because the Mavic Mini can record up to 60 frames per second at 1080P, which is great for editing slow Motion.
Both drones can produce great clips. However, Spark’s video is more focused on the moment, and the Mavic Mini has the ability to make a better edit.
Image Quality
Both DJI Spark and DJI Mavic Mini have similar image sensors, a 1/2.3-inch 12MP camera, but they differ in terms of their gimbal technology. The Mavic Mini features a 3-axis motorized gimbal, which stabilizes footage along with the pitch, roll, and yaw axes, while the Spark features a 2-axis motorized gimbal that stabilizes footage along with the pitch and roll directions only.
This means that the Mavic Mini is better at keeping the camera steady and producing smoother footage, especially during complicated turns or when dealing with wind.
In terms of video quality, the Mavic Mini outperforms the Spark with its ability to shoot super-smooth, 2.7K Quad HD videos that can be transformed into high-quality cinematic footage. The Mini’s videos are detailed, and sharp, and the colors are well-saturated.
The Spark, on the other hand, shoots 1080p Full HD videos and 12MP stills, which are great for casual use and taking selfies, but not as suitable for professional-level photography or videography.
The Mavic Mini also has a higher bitrate when recording video, which means more data is being captured per second, resulting in higher-quality videos with less compression artifacts. Additionally, the Mini has a higher dynamic range, which means it can capture more details in bright and dark areas of the image, resulting in a more balanced and natural-looking image.
Overall, while both drones offer good image quality, the Mavic Mini outperforms the Spark in terms of video quality and stabilization thanks to its 3-axis gimbal. If you’re looking to capture professional-grade footage, the Mavic Mini is the better choice. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option for casual use, the Spark may be a good fit.
Autonomous Modes
- DJI Mavic Mini QuickShots (Rocket Dronie Circle, Helix, Circle, Circle)
- DJI Spark: Palm launch and Palm control, Selfie (make an image with your hands), Follow Palm Land, ActiveTrack (Rocket Dronie Circle, Helix), TapFly
A drone is a camera drone that can’t perform flawlessly will not be able to fly. All drones have different processing speeds and prices, so they all make the right tradeoff between their sensors and the price. Purely in hardware terms, the Spark is more equipped than the other pair. It has dedicated object-tracking sensors that can take over at close range.
The drone can offer quick shots (15-second effects such as orbit (Circle) or zooming out (Dronie). The Spark also offers what is known as “Jedi Mode” or, more boringly, gesture control. Simple hand gestures can be used to command the drone to place or take a photograph. Although it is a little more complicated than some other movements, it is easy to master.
ActiveTrack is another feature of Spark. It allows you to follow a subject that the drone’s software can recognize through the main camera. Although it’s a fantastic feature, it requires some processing power that isn’t available in the Mini. Smooth Motion is a slow-flight mode that allows for cinematic shots. It can be used to get the shoot, but it’s not automatic.
Intelligent Functions
Even though it is an entry-level camera drone DJI Spark has many intelligent features such as TapFly and QuickShots. QuickShots allows you to create creative videos by simply tapping; TapFly allows you to control DJI Spark using your smartphone screen, while ActiveTrack intelligently follows the subject you choose.
DJI Mavic Mini also offers QuickShots such as Rocket, Dronie, and Rocket. These shots look just like they were taken on a Hollywood set. Through the DJI Fly app, the Everyday FlyCam provides a simplified experience for flying.
Mavic Mini offers a simple user interface, pre-made templates, and editing tools that make it a great choice for everyday drone flyers.
Flight Performance
The DJI Mavic Mini offers impressive flight performance compared to the DJI Spark. With its compact and lightweight design, the Mavic Mini is easy to maneuver and control. It boasts a maximum flight time of 30 minutes, which is impressive for a drone of its size and price point. The drone also has a 4km HD transmission range for FCC-compliant models (MT1SS5) and 2.5 km for CE-compliant models (SRRC).
These measurements were taken in an unobstructed environment free from interference, with the aircraft moving at a constant speed of 14 kph. The range and flight time of the Mavic Mini make it ideal for capturing footage and images from a distance without the need for frequent battery changes or limited range.
On the other hand, the DJI Spark offers a maximum flight time of 16 minutes, which is significantly shorter than the Mavic Mini’s 30-minute flight time. Additionally, the Spark has a 2km HD Wi-Fi video transmission range, which is shorter than the Mavic Mini’s transmission range.
However, the Spark is still a great drone for those who are new to flying drones or for those who want a budget-friendly option. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport and maneuver, and its 2-axis gimbal and camera provide decent image stabilization.
Flight Safety
When it comes to flight safety, both the DJI Spark and the DJI Mavic Mini have a lot to offer.
- The Spark has a number of features that make it a safe and reliable drone, including an auto-landing function and a fail-safe return to home feature.
- The Mavic Mini also has a number of safety features, including low battery protection and obstacle avoidance.
In terms of overall flight safety, the DJI Spark is a more reliable and safer drone than the DJI Mavic Mini.
You can check out the list of DJI Spark Tips And Tricks 2023: Top Full Guide to learn more
Is the DJI Spark better than the Mavic Mini?
The DJI Spark and the Mavic Mini are both very useful drone. However, they’re designed for different customers. The Mavic Mini is the best choice if you want the highest quality output and feel that a controller should be included in the package. The Mavic Mini is a great choice for serious vloggers that have friends to capture their footage.
However, the Spark offers a range of smart features that could make it a more useful companion for family trips. The 1080P video is clear enough to allow us to recall our favorite moments. Jedi mode is great fun, and the frame is solid.
DJI’s decision to replace the Mavic Mini’s software with a less useful phone app is causing it some problems. It has removed useful features such as the combined battery meter, return distance warning chart, and warning bar. Although it’s a small loss, it’s still quite disappointing.
The Mini is a newer model that weighs less than 250 grams. This makes it a better choice than the Spark. However, if they were released at the same time, it would have been the lower model. Video resolution is an important feature for many creators. The Spark’s additional features may be offset by the Mini’s. But neither one is wrong.
FAQs
Did the Mavic mini Replace the Spark?
DJI unveiled the DJI Mavic Mini, a new entry-level drone that will replace the DJI Spark in the company’s lineup. I used to own a DJI Spark, but I upgraded to a Mavic Air for two reasons: Air shoots 4K video and folds down to be smaller for travel.
What has replaced the DJI Spark?
At this point, given the time since it’s launch, it’s difficult to see a reason to go for the Spark. It’s been replaced by the Mini, and that – in our eyes – is a much better drone if you really want something very small.
Why was DJI Spark discontinued?
It’s simple: with the release of the Mini, Spark sales would no longer be sufficient to sustain viable production. I still like mine the same way. They will most likely continue to sell parts for them for some time. However, everything comes to an end (so will your Spark eventually).
Conclusion
The DJI Spark is a great little drone that packs in some amazing features while staying lightweight and mobile. If you’re looking for something more professional, the Mavic Mini might be your best bet. It offers performance on par with its bigger brothers but still has the compact design of an ultra-portable machine. Whatever your need, one of these drones will do just fine!
We hope this article helped to narrow down your decision between these two models so you can get back to enjoying flying!
