In this video, we delve into the world of DJI drones, focusing on two of their most prominent models: the DJI Air 3S and the DJI Mavic 3 Pro. These drones are often considered the leaders in the DJI lineup, each offering unique features and capabilities. The key question we aim to address is which drone is the right choice for you.

These are the two kings of the DJI drone world.

My name is Dan Davis, and I am the creative director at Danstube.tv, recognized as Australia’s number one drone YouTube channel. Join us as we explore the features and benefits of these two impressive drones.

Key Features and Differences

• DJI Air 3S
  • Known for its compact design and ease of use.
  • Offers excellent flight stability and control.
  • Ideal for beginners and hobbyists looking for a reliable drone.
• DJI Mavic 3 Pro
  • Equipped with advanced camera systems for professional-grade photography.
  • Features enhanced obstacle avoidance technology.
  • Suitable for professional users seeking high-quality aerial footage.

Which one should you get and which one is right for you?

These points will guide you in understanding the strengths of each model, helping you make an informed decision based on your needs and preferences.

Features of the DJI Air 3S

The DJI Air 3S is a remarkable drone with several unique features that make it stand out. It is equipped with two camera systems, providing versatility for different shooting needs. The primary camera boasts a wide-angle one-inch sensor, while the secondary camera features a 70mm zoom system. This setup allows for digital zoom up to nine times, offering flexibility in capturing distant subjects.

The main camera system delivers 50-megapixel stills, and the telephoto camera system provides 48-megapixel stills. This high resolution ensures detailed and vibrant images. Additionally, the Air 3S offers 14 stops of dynamic range, enhancing the quality of both photos and videos by capturing a wider range of light and shadow.

In terms of video capabilities, the Air 3S can record in 4K at 60 frames per second (FPS) in HDR, providing stunning clarity and color. It also supports 4K at 120 FPS for slow-motion footage, allowing for creative and dramatic video effects.

Comparison with DJI Mavic 3 Pro

• Camera Systems:
  • Air 3S: Two camera systems with a wide-angle one-inch sensor and a 70mm zoom camera.
  • Mavic 3 Pro: Also offers advanced camera systems but with different specifications.
• Dynamic Range:
  • Air 3S: 14 stops of dynamic range.
  • Mavic 3 Pro: Comparable dynamic range, but specific details may vary.
• Video Capabilities:
  • Air 3S: 4K at 60 FPS in HDR and 4K at 120 FPS for slow motion.
  • Mavic 3 Pro: Offers high-quality video recording, but specific frame rates and features may differ.
• Stills Resolution:
  • Air 3S: 50-megapixel main camera and 48-megapixel telephoto camera.
  • Mavic 3 Pro: High-resolution stills, but specifications may vary.

“The Air 3S does have some very unique offers.”

“It’s got fourteen stops of dynamic range.”

Features of the DJI Mavic 3 Pro

The DJI Mavic 3 Pro stands out with its advanced features, making it a top choice for professional filmmakers and photography enthusiasts. One of its most notable attributes is the inclusion of three camera systems, which significantly enhances its versatility and performance.

“The Mavic three Pro has three camera systems.”

Camera Systems and Specifications

The Mavic 3 Pro is equipped with a four-thirds camera system, which is larger than the one-inch sensor found in the DJI Air 3S. This upgrade provides superior image quality and greater detail, making it ideal for high-end video production.

Additionally, the drone features a 17mm telephoto camera system with a 1/1.3-inch sensor, the same as the Air 3S, offering a three times optical zoom. Furthermore, it boasts a 28 times hybrid zoom, which includes a seven times optical zoom, utilizing a half-inch sensor. These diverse camera options allow for a wide range of creative possibilities.

Professional Filmmaking Advantages

A key advantage of the Mavic 3 Pro is its adjustable aperture, a feature not available in the Air 3S, which has a fixed aperture. This flexibility is crucial for filmmakers who need precise control over exposure and depth of field, enabling them to capture stunning visuals in various lighting conditions.

“We do get adjustable aperture.”

Comparison with DJI Air 3S

Camera Systems:

• Mavic 3 Pro: Three camera systems including a four-thirds sensor.
• Air 3S: Single camera system with a one-inch sensor.

Aperture:

• Mavic 3 Pro: Adjustable aperture for enhanced control.
• Air 3S: Fixed aperture.

Zoom Capabilities:

• Mavic 3 Pro: 17mm telephoto with 3x optical and 28x hybrid zoom.
• Air 3S: Limited to the capabilities of its single sensor.

Professional Use:

• Mavic 3 Pro: Designed for professional filmmakers with advanced features.
• Air 3S: More suited for casual users or hobbyists.

 

Comparing Camera Systems

Here is a detailed comparison of the camera systems of the DJI Air 3S and the DJI Mavic 3 Pro:

Dynamic Range

Air 3S: Offers fourteen stops of dynamic range, providing a wider spectrum of light and shadow detail. This is particularly beneficial for capturing scenes with high contrast.

Mavic 3 Pro: Features twelve point eight stops of dynamic range, which is slightly less than the Air 3S but still delivers excellent quality.

“The Air 3S has got fourteen stops of dynamic range.”

“The Mavic 3 Pro has twelve point eight stops of dynamic range.”

Video Quality

Both drones are capable of capturing ten-bit video, ensuring vibrant and rich color reproduction.

“They both can capture ten bit video, which is gorgeous and it looks phenomenal.”

User Suitability

Air 3S: Ideal for content creators who may not need the full capabilities of the Mavic 3 Pro but appreciate the superior dynamic range.

Mavic 3 Pro: Suitable for professional filmmakers or those deeply invested in drone videography, offering advanced features.

“For me, the Air 3S is great because that seventy millimeter camera system is actually my preferred camera system.”

Obstacle Avoidance and Battery Life

Obstacle Avoidance Features

Omnidirectional Obstacle Avoidance

• Both the DJI Air 3S and DJI Mavic 3 Pro feature omnidirectional obstacle avoidance.
• This allows them to detect and avoid obstacles from any direction, enhancing flight safety.

“They both have omnidirectional obstacle avoidance, so they can both avoid obstacles in any direction that you can imagine.”

• Advanced Sensors on DJI Air 3S

  1. Equipped with a lidar sensor on the front and infrared sensors on the base.

  2. Capable of detecting objects in low-light conditions, such as a candle one meter away.

  3. Enhances performance in scenarios like sunset flights and active track mode.

  “The unique offering here, though, comes on the Air 3S, so it’s actually got a lidar sensor on the front as well as infrared sensors on the base.”

Battery Life Comparison

DJI Mavic 3 Pro

• Offers up to 43 minutes of flight time.

DJI Air 3S

• Provides slightly more with 45 minutes of flight time.

• “You’re apparently getting two minutes more with the Air 3S.”

• Practical Flight Time

  1. In real-world scenarios, both drones achieve around 35 to 38 minutes of flight time.

  2. This accounts for the need to return and land safely.

  “Keep in mind, realistically, they’re both getting maybe thirty eight, thirty five minutes roughly in the typical kind of scenario where you actually have to fly it back and land it.”

Practical Implications for Drone Pilots

• Enhanced safety and reliability in various lighting conditions.
• Longer flight times allow for extended exploration and filming.
• Advanced tracking capabilities in low-light scenarios improve usability for creative projects.

Advanced Features and Use Cases

DJI drones offer a range of advanced features that cater to various user needs. Here’s a detailed comparison of the DJI Air 3S and the Mavic 3 Pro:

• Flight Modes:
  • DJI Air 3S:> “The Air 3S does have the fun ActiveTrack three sixty.”
    • ActiveTrack 360 for dynamic tracking in multiple orientations.
    • Offers waypoints and cruise control for enhanced flight paths.
    • Includes quick shot modes for creative filming.
  • Mavic 3 Pro:> “The Mavic three Pro still has a very cool active track mode.”
    • Robust active track mode similar to the Air 3S.
    • Waypoints and cruise control available for precise navigation.
• Battery Life:
  • DJI Air 3S:> “You are getting slightly more battery life with the Air 3S here.”
    • Slightly longer battery life, making it suitable for extended flights.
• Use Cases:
  • For Creative Users:
    • The Air 3S’s ActiveTrack 360 is ideal for capturing dynamic and creative shots.
  • For Precision Flyers:
    • Both drones offer waypoint features, but the Mavic 3 Pro’s robust tracking makes it suitable for precise flight paths.

For those interested in purchasing these drones, options are available through various retailers, including DJI Australia. International buyers can also find links to purchase these drones and accessories.

Conclusion: Which Drone is Right for You?

Choosing between the DJI Air 3S and the DJI Mavic 3 Pro depends largely on your specific needs and budget. Both drones offer impressive features, but they cater to different user profiles.

Key Differences and Similarities

• Camera Quality:
  • Mavic 3 Pro: 5.1K video at 50 fps, adjustable aperture (f/2.8 to f/11), three-camera system.
  • Air 3S: 4K video at 60 fps HDR, two-camera system, 120 fps slow-motion capability.
• Professional Use:
  • Mavic 3 Pro is ideal for professionals needing high-quality footage and versatility.
  • Air 3S is suitable for real estate content and short films.
• Budget Considerations:
  • Mavic 3 Pro is a higher investment for advanced features.
  • Air 3S offers excellent performance at a more accessible price point.

“…The Mavic 3 Pro is the improvement…”  &  “…The Air 3S is no pushover….”

Final Recommendations

• For Professionals: If you’re serious about drone work and have the budget, the Mavic 3 Pro is the superior choice with its advanced features and camera systems.> “If you’re professional and you’re getting paid to do drone work, the Mavic three Pro is definitely the one to go for.”
• For Enthusiasts and Upgraders: The Air 3S is a fantastic option for those upgrading from a mini drone or looking for a capable drone without breaking the bank.> “The Air 3S is no pushover. It still is a professional drone.”