DJI Mini 4 Pro: omnidirectional obstacle detection at less than 250 grams

DJI presented the new Mini 4 Pro: the biggest innovation is omnidirectional obstacle detection, but it's not the only one. Slowmotion 4K, video log and a new transmission system that allows new types of shooting.

Generation after generation the DJI Mini gets better, and only one thing never changes: the weight. They are still 249 grams, and it is not easy to maintain this weight by adding elements that still have weight. This year they are the ones that will affect the scale the sensors added for navigation , a choice that forced DJI to further lighten some elements without compromising the structure of what has been the best recreational drone for years. With the new sensors, DJI assures, the drone is able to follow a person on a bicycle in the woods avoiding all obstacles, in every direction.

The basic structure is similar to that of the model it replaces, the Mini 3, and if we consider that in the end a drone of this type is a flying camera, those who have bought a Mini 3 Pro can breathe a sigh of relief because the camera doesn't change .

At the base there is always the same 1/1.3 inch CMOS sensor, 48 megapixels and lens with f/1.7 aperture. DJI, however, has worked on the electronic part and has included a new ISP on this model which allows you to drive the sensor in dual ISO mode (improve night shots) and which unlocks two shooting modes. The first is the 10-bit D-Log M recording, present on the higher-end models, the second is 4K slowmotion with a maximum frame rate of 100 fps.

There is the possibility of shooting videos vertically, with sensor inclination, and the high oscillation angle of the gimbal, which helps to keep the horizon in the case of very tight curves.

Small things, also because the innovations are different and mainly concern driving and management: Mini 4 Pro guarantees omnidirectional obstacle detection thanks to several wide-angle sensors and a pair of vision sensors positioned downwards to detect obstacles from all directions. Thanks to the APAS (Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems) system already adopted on other DJI drones when faced with obstacles, you can choose automatic stop or bypass, convenient for creative shooting.

With the supplied battery the maximum flight autonomy is 34 minutes, but there is the Plus battery which brings the weight to approximately 290 grams: with this battery the autonomy increases to 45 minutes.

DJI has also changed the video transmission system: the O4 system adopted on the Air 3 arrives on the Mini, which according to the company guarantees smooth 1080p/60fps FHD transmission up to 20 km away. Interesting to see how DJI is evolving its products by bringing the functions of the higher models downwards: the Air has gained the double camera which was the hallmark of the Pro, now the Mini inherits omnidirectional navigation and O4. The Mini 5, continuing with this trend, could gain a dual camera (weight permitting).

Also new on the software: the automatic Waypoint Flight route and Cruise Control for long-distance flights arrive. There is also an Advanced Return to Home system, with the user either being able to follow the path to the starting point in augmented reality.

The choice of accessories is also interesting: in addition to the ND filters to be attached magnetically to the camera, there is a new Ultra Wide lens and a 4G module to be attached to the lower area.

DJI Mini 4 Pro costs practically the same as the previous model (which it replaces): €799 with the DJI RC-N2 remote control, €999 with the DJI RC 2 remote control, equipped with display and €1129 in the Fly More Combo version. This includes the drone, a DJI RC 2 remote controller, three batteries, a DJI Mini shoulder bag and the charging station.