Photo credit: www.theverge.com

Exploring the DJI Flip: A New Entry-Level Drone

Priced at $439, the DJI Flip represents an accessible option for those who are new to the world of drones. This drone is designed for simplicity and convenience, allowing users to unfold, launch, and land it using just one button, while also offering a joystick control option. It stands out by delivering superior photo and video quality compared to its closest competitors.

Previously, in August, DJI’s competitor Hover introduced a revolutionary $349 flying camera that operates without the need for joystick skills. In response, DJI unveiled the $199 DJI Neo, signaling their intention to remain competitive. However, the $439 Flip significantly improves on these offerings by providing advanced features such as higher camera quality, enhanced flight stability, an impressive 31-minute battery life, and a quicker launch capability. Unfortunately, it does not support first-person view (FPV) flying, despite some enthusiasts’ hopes.

The DJI Flip distinguishes itself not only with its unique folding design reminiscent of a Star Wars AT-AT walker or a penny-farthing bicycle, but also as the first drone from DJI that powers on automatically upon unfolding, eliminating the need for multiple button presses. Additionally, its innovative four spoke-filled propeller guards—claimed to be a first in their folding drone series—work alongside a forward-facing 3D infrared sensor to minimize the risk of front impacts for the camera.

Gallery: The DJI Flip. It’s bigger than a Mini.

The camera, while not as advanced as the 1.0-inch sensor featured in the DJI Osmo Pocket 3, delivers impressive results in well-lit conditions. The Flip is equipped with a smaller 1/1.3-inch 4K60 sensor that boasts a 4:3 aspect ratio, enabling it to capture 2.7K vertical video and 48-megapixel still images through a fast f/1.7 aperture lens. Early aerial shots reveal its potential effectiveness.

In comparison to the DJI Neo, which is significantly cheaper, the Flip outperforms it in terms of stability and image quality. While flying the same routes over a lake and park, the Neo struggled to maintain a steady shot due to its lightweight design, resulting in lower-quality images. The Flip, equipped with a three-axis gimbal, excels in maintaining stability. For professional users, it also offers the option to record in 10-bit D-Log M.

However, those looking for even greater capabilities may want to consider DJI’s more expensive options, which provide superior performance and true vertical shooting through gimbal rotation. Some drone enthusiasts may opt to wait for the unannounced Mini 5 rather than selecting the Flip.

DJI spokesperson Daisy Kong clarified that the Mini Series will remain in production and that the DJI Flip introduces a new entry-level option intended to complement the existing DJI Neo and Mini lines. Each drone is crafted to cater to various beginner needs.

One notable aspect of the Flip is its size; despite being under the 249-gram weight threshold, which typically requires government compliance measures, its folded form is not compact enough to fit into smaller pockets. Furthermore, it operates relatively loudly compared to other DJI models.

Additionally, although it is priced higher than the less capable DJI Neo, the Flip does not support any FPV headsets for an immersive flying experience.

At $439, the Flip includes a basic RC-N3 joystick controller that enables users to use their phones as a display, alongside features for launching from the hand. A more comprehensive package priced at $779 offers three batteries, a carrying case, and the more advanced DJI RC 2 controller with a bright 700-nit screen. By contrast, the DJI Mini 4 Pro kits are priced at $959 and $1,099, respectively, highlighting a significant difference.

The DJI Flip is now available for purchase and shipping, directly from DJI’s official website.

Photography and video by Sean Hollister / The Verge

Source
www.theverge.com