is it definitely worth the improve?

While the DJI Air 2 and Air 2S are exceptional mid-range drones, the Air 2S stands out as a slightly more impressive model. So between the DJI Air 2S and the DJI Mavic Mini? Are upgrades to DJI Air 2S really worth it from your current setup?

Since every fashion is available at an identical value level ($1,099), there’s little motivation why the DJI Air 3S shouldn’t be the top choice for new consumers seeking a high-quality, highly effective digital camera drone that won’t break the bank, unlike alternatives like the $2,149 model.

If you’re seeking a superior drone experience, the DJI Air 2S clearly outshines its predecessor, the DJI Air 3. What’s the real difference between DJI Air 2 and DJI Air 3 that matters to you? The DJI Air 3S drone offers an impressive array of features and capabilities, including a robust camera system, advanced flight modes, and seamless connectivity to your smartphone.

One significant reason why the DJI Air 3 might be a more appealing option than the DJI Air 3S is that

• Although there are some limitations, you may still find a good deal on the DJI Air 3 through an authorized reseller that offers it at a price lower than its original retail value.
• The global supply chain has been significantly impacted since its launch, particularly with regards to the technology sector, which is now closely tied to a legislative provision known as the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA). U.S.

  The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has been scrutinizing DJI’s compliance with the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA), resulting in some orders, primarily those shipped from China, being held back for delivery. If you’re struggling with the current supply and don’t mind waiting a few weeks longer, the DJI Air 2 is a decent alternative.

Is it worth upgrading your existing DJI Air 3 to a newer model, or should you stick with what you’ve got?

The Air 3S, offering a significant upgrade to the original, made its debut in July 2023. The device’s impeding sense is notably enhanced, particularly in the evening hours, while also featuring a new Panorama mode and offering substantially increased internal storage capabilities.

Here’s a review of the DJI Air 3 versus Should you own a DJI Air series drone and are considering an upgrade, it’s essential to weigh the benefits of the latest DJI Air 3S model against your current device’s capabilities.

DJI Air 3 vs. DJI Air 3S: A Comparative Look at Two Excellent Camera-Carrying Drones

For those considering the DJI Air 3S, it’s likely they’ve had experience with its precursor, the DJI Air 3, or have given considerable thought to upgrading from that model. Here’s a comparison of the two drones’ performance in key areas:

What sets the DJI Air 3 apart from its predecessors? DJI Air 3

What does this multitude of choices and technical specifications ultimately boil down to in practical terms? The DJI Air 3S boasts four significant upgrades not available on the standard DJI Air 3, offering users a more enhanced flying experience.

1. Can sensing omnidirectional impediments accurately at any time of day?

While the Air 3 excels with omnidirectional impedance sensing, the Air 3S raises the bar further by incorporating advanced sensing technology, ensuring an unparalleled level of safety and ease in flight operations. The future of autonomous driving hinges on advancements in forward-facing LiDAR technology. Typically associated with cutting-edge expertise, DJI has successfully integrated this advanced technology into a consumer-grade drone, effectively democratizing access to sophisticated features. For pilots today, the DJI Air 3S’s advanced obstacle detection capabilities enable safer navigation, even in challenging low-light conditions. 

2. New Panorama mode

The Air 3S boasts a newly introduced Free Panorama mode, allowing photographers to effortlessly capture ultra-wide-angle images with unparalleled ease. Until now, the process had presented some challenges. While many photographers rely on third-party panorama software programs to stitch images together and create panoramic views,

While PanoVolo remains easy to use, its mode within the drone simplifies it even further. Without any additional lenses or software programs, we can still capture expansive vistas.

Expanded inside storage

Upon upgrading to the DJI Air 3S, you likely won’t need SD cards – or for that matter, memory cards – at all. The Air 3S now boasts a substantial increase in internal storage, jumping from a relatively limited 8GB to a more generous 42GB.

At times, a 4K video featuring a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels can occupy approximately 15-30 gigabytes (GB) of storage space per hour. Considering the drone’s capabilities to capture hours of footage at a time, I’d argue that an hourly estimate is overly cautious; realistically, it could mean capturing multiple hours’ worth of high-quality video in a single take? It’s very probably extra. With this increased capacity, you’re empowered to capture significantly more footage without the constraints of limited storage or the frustration of juggling external memory cards.

Barely improved digital camera specs

While the Air 3 boasted an impressive 48-megapixel digital camera, the Air 3S takes it up a notch by upgrading to a 50-megapixel sensor. While this bump may not appear large, it still brings an added layer of readability and elegance, especially in photographs where resolution truly matters.

Why the DJI Air 3 stands out from its sibling.

While the Air 3S boasts impressive features, a handful of minor drawbacks do exist, albeit not substantial enough to deter potential buyers.

• The Air 3S tips the scales at 724 grams, a mere 4-gram increase from its predecessor, the Air 3, which weighed in at 720 grams. While a mere 4-gram difference may be inconsequential to most users, it can have a tangible impact on enthusiasts who meticulously weigh every ounce.
• The Air 3S offers a significant reduction of approximately one minute in overall flight duration for the majority of flights. Compared to the Air 3, the new mannequin boasts a notable improvement of 1 minute in battery life, lasting an impressive 45 minutes. While a single minute may not significantly impact a 45-minute flight, it’s worth considering in the context of ultra-lightweight drones with much shorter flight durations, such as the Neo’s 18 minutes or the Mini 4K’s 31. While the distinction is subtle, it remains significant for discerning clients.

DJI Air 3 vs. Should You Buy the DJI Air 3S? A Comprehensive Guide to Help You Decide

Given that the DJI Air 3 and Air 3S share a similar price point, opting for the Air 3S offers a more compelling proposition for anyone in the market for a new drone. With its upgraded impedance sensing, expanded storage capabilities, and subtle improvements to the digital camera, this device offers a compelling upgrade at an unchanged price point. Availability may pose a challenge due to customs and stock levels, so it’s essential to verify whether the Air 3S is even a viable option in your region.

Are you considering a mid-air refresh with your DJI Air 3, wondering if the upgrade to DJI Air 3S is worth your while? With its enhanced 5.4K video resolution and 32MP camera sensor, the DJI Air 3S offers improved visual fidelity, perfect for capturing life’s precious moments in stunning clarity.

While the DJI Air 3S boasts notable enhancements, they do not sufficiently warrant an upgrade for existing Air 3 owners. While the enhancements – omnidirectional impediment sensing, a modestly upgraded digital camera, and increased internal storage – are welcome additions, they may not significantly impact most customers’ buying decisions.

When you’re not even thinking about them, you tend to misplace playing card reminders, much like losing coins on your couch – unless, of course, you’re tackling challenging flights in the dead of night, where enhanced obstacle avoidance takes on a whole new significance. If the current limitations of the DJI Air 2 do indeed impact your experience, upgrading to a DJI Air 3 and investing in the funds to move towards an Air 3S might be a sensible choice.

For those already owning an Air 3, the prospect of a significant leap in drone technology, potentially rivaling the rumored DJI Mavic 4, makes a upgrade a more compelling choice.

Despite its reputation for swift product releases, DJI may not be far from unveiling another groundbreaking innovation. While the DJI Air 3 boasts impressive specifications, it is likely to suffice for most users’ needs unless they are specifically seeking additional storage capacity or marginally enhanced obstacle avoidance capabilities.