DJI Mini 5 Pro: The Mini Drone Revolution Arrives with a 1-Inch Sensor

The consumer drone market has witnessed a historic moment in September 17, 2025 with the official launch of the DJI Mini 5 Pro , the world's first mini drone with a 1-inch CMOS sensor. Strategically weighing under 250 grams to maintain its C0 rating, this new model completely redefines the quality standards of the mini category, introducing technologies that until now were reserved for higher-end professional drones.

A Generational Leap in the Photography Industry

The real protagonist of the Mini 5 Pro is undoubtedly the new 1-inch 50MP CMOS sensor , which represents a huge leap in quality over the 1/1.3" sensor in the predecessor Mini 4 Pro. This upgrade means more than double the surface area capable of capturing light, translating into 14 stops of dynamic range and significantly superior performance in low light conditions.

The camera also integrates a new 48mm Med-Tele mode which, by exploiting the sensor's crop, allows for an almost telephoto effect while maintaining excellent image quality thanks to the 50 MP available. The lens maintains a fixed f/1.8 aperture with a focal length equivalent to 24mm on a full-frame setup.

Professional-Level Video Performance

The Mini 5 Pro's video section has been completely revamped and now supports:

• 4K/60fps video in HDR with an extended dynamic range of up to 14 stops
• 4K recording at 120fps for cinematic slow-motion effects
• 10-bit H.265 codec for maximum flexibility in post-production
• D-Log M and HLG color profiles for professional editing
• Boosted ISO up to 12,800 in standard modes

The resulting video quality is comparable to that of much higher-end drones, making the Mini 5 Pro a compelling choice even for professional content creators who require portability without compromising on quality.

Gimbal Innovations: Unprecedented Creative Versatility

One of the most interesting novelties is the gimbal with 225° rotation , which allows for the first time on a mini drone to perform real vertical shots without image cropping. This feature is essential for those creating content for social media, allowing you to quickly switch from cinematic horizontal shots to vertical clips optimized for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.

The gimbal rotation, while not a full 360° like in the Mavic 4 Pro, opens up new creative possibilities and angles that were previously impossible to achieve without complex post-production editing.

Advanced Safety: LiDAR and Night Obstacle Detection

The Mini 5 Pro introduces the system Nightscape Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing , a technology that combines a front-facing LiDAR with multiple vision sensors to ensure obstacle detection and avoidance even in extremely low light conditions (down to 0.1 lux).

The security system includes:

• Front LiDAR for precise detection even in the dark
• Omnidirectional sensors with front and rear fisheye lenses
• Night Return-to-Home with obstacle avoidance
• Dual-band GNSS (L1 + L5) for more precise positioning
• RTH without GNSS for safe return even when satellite signals are blocked

Flight Performance and Range

Flight performance has been significantly improved compared to the Mini 4 Pro:

• Battery life : 36 minutes with standard battery, extendable to 52 minutes with Plus battery (not available in Europe)
• Climb speed : 10 m/s, double the 5 m/s of the Mini 4 Pro
• Maximum speed : 18 m/s in Sport mode (67 km/h)
• Wind resistance : up to 12 m/s
• Maximum altitude : 6,000 meters

The transmission system OcuSync 4+ It guarantees a maximum range of 20 km (FCC) and 15 km (CE), with significantly superior stability even when flying in a group.

Intelligent Features and ActiveTrack 360°

The Mini 5 Pro integrates a system Enhanced ActiveTrack 360° which offers smoother and more precise tracking modes. The system allows for the selection of different subject types (person or vehicle) and movement modes (standard or cycling), automatically adapting speed and flight behavior.

All of DJI's popular automatic modes are also available:

• MasterShots for automatic cinematic sequences
• QuickShots for preset creative clips
• Timelapse And Panorama to capture temporal movement and breathtaking panoramas
• 7-shot bracketing (AEB) support for high-contrast scenes

Storage and Connectivity

The Mini 5 Pro includes 42 GB of internal memory , a new feature that allows you to continue recording even when the microSD card fills up. The function of offline data transfer via USB-C, which allows you to download files from the drone without having to turn it on.

Prices and Availability in Italy

The DJI Mini 5 Pro is available in Italy in the following configurations:

• DJI Mini 5 Pro (drone with RC-N3 only): €799
• DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo (with RC-N3): €999
• DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo (with RC 2): €1,129

The starting price, which has remained unchanged compared to the Mini 4 Pro at launch, makes this upgrade particularly interesting considering the qualitative leap it offers.

Comparison to the Mini 4 Pro: Is it worth the upgrade?

The question many ask is whether upgrading from the Mini 4 Pro is worth it. The answer depends on the specific use:

Who should upgrade:

• Professional content creators who require maximum image quality
• Photographers who often work in low-light conditions
• Users who need the new creative functions (rotating gimbal, Med-Tele)
• Those who frequently fly at night and would benefit from the LiDAR system

Who can stay on the Mini 4 Pro:

• Occasional or recreational users
• Those who mainly use the drone during the day
• Limited budget and satisfaction with current performance

The price difference of around 100 euros compared to the Mini 4 Pro (at launch) is more than justified considering the sensor upgrade and the new features.

Considerations on the C0 Regulation

One thing to keep in mind is that despite the official C0 certification with a MTOM of 249.9g, actual weight may vary by ±4g. Some users have reported weights slightly exceeding 250g on home scales, especially with the addition of ND filters. DJI has clarified that the certification remains valid, but those operating in strictly regulated environments may need to consider the C1 configuration with the provided stickers.

Conclusions: A New Standard for Mini Drones

The DJI Mini 5 Pro represents a significant evolutionary leap in the ultralight drone segment. Integrating a 1-inch sensor into a body weighing less than 250 grams is a remarkable engineering feat that completely changes the rules of the game.

For those seeking the highest image quality in an ultra-portable package, free from the regulatory restrictions of heavier drones, the Mini 5 Pro is the ultimate choice. Its 4K HDR video performance, advanced LiDAR safety system, extended battery life, and versatile rotating gimbal make it a complete tool for both recreational and professional use.

With a competitive launch price considering the innovations introduced, the Mini 5 Pro is poised to become the new benchmark in the mini drone market, setting quality standards that the competition will necessarily have to follow.