DJI’s Mini series has been a game-changer for both beginner and experienced drone enthusiasts, offering high-quality features in lightweight, portable designs. The DJI Mini 3 Pro and the recently released DJI Mini 4 Pro are two standout models in this line, pushing the boundaries of what a sub-250g drone can do. This detailed comparison of DJI Mini 3 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro will explore the key differences, similarities, and overall performance of both drones to help you decide which one is right for you.
Overview of DJI Mini 3 Pro
The DJI Mini 3 Pro, released in 2022, brought a significant upgrade to the Mini lineup. It is packed with features that were once exclusive to DJI’s higher-end models, like obstacle avoidance, a better camera, and improved flight performance. Despite its lightweight and compact design, the Mini 3 Pro offers pro-level functionality that makes it suitable for both hobbyists and professionals.
Key Features of DJI Mini 3 Pro:
- Weight: Under 249 grams
- Camera: 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor
- Photo Resolution: 48MP
- Video Resolution: 4K at 60fps
- Flight Time: 34 minutes
- Obstacle Avoidance: Forward, backward, and downward
- Transmission Range: Up to 12 km (7.5 miles) with OcuSync 3.0
Also read my detailed article on DJI Mini 3 pro review.
Overview of DJI Mini 4 Pro
DJI’s Mini 4 Pro, released in 2024, further enhances the Mini lineup with even more features, better flight performance, and improved camera capabilities. The Mini 4 Pro has been designed to refine the strengths of the Mini 3 Pro while addressing some of its limitations.
Key Features of DJI Mini 4 Pro:
- Weight: Under 249 grams
- Camera: 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor
- Photo Resolution: 48MP
- Video Resolution: 4K at 60fps, HDR video
- Flight Time: 34 minutes (standard battery), up to 45 minutes with the extended battery
- Obstacle Avoidance: 360-degree omnidirectional
- Transmission Range: Up to 20 km (12.4 miles) with OcuSync 4.0
Design and Portability
Both the DJI Mini 3 Pro and Mini 4 Pro are designed with portability in mind. Weighing under 249 grams, they are compact enough to fit into a small bag, making them ideal for traveling. Additionally, both drones can be flown without needing to register with aviation authorities in many countries, which is a big advantage for casual flyers.
However, the Mini 4 Pro has a slight edge when it comes to build quality. It feels more durable and robust, with small design tweaks that make it easier to handle. The Mini 4 Pro also has a more efficient folding mechanism, allowing for quicker deployment.
Camera Performance
One of the key selling points of both drones is their camera quality. While both models feature a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor capable of capturing stunning 48MP stills and 4K video, there are some differences in their video performance.
Camera on DJI Mini 3 Pro:
- Photos: 48MP with RAW support
- Video: 4K at 60fps, HDR support
- ISO Range: 100-6400
- Digital Zoom: 4x zoom (2x lossless in 1080p)
Camera on DJI Mini 4 Pro:
- Photos: 48MP with enhanced HDR
- Video: 4K at 60fps, HDR, 10-bit color, and Hyperlapse mode
- ISO Range: 100-6400
- Digital Zoom: 4x zoom (2x lossless in 4K)
While both drones deliver stunning 4K footage, the Mini 4 Pro’s HDR capabilities and 10-bit color give it the edge for more professional videographers. The color depth in the Mini 4 Pro’s video is superior, providing better dynamic range and smoother gradients, especially in challenging lighting conditions. The inclusion of Hyperlapse mode in the Mini 4 Pro also makes it a better choice for creative videography.
Flight Performance and Battery Life
DJI Mini 3 Pro:
- Flight Time: 34 minutes
- Max Speed: 16 m/s (in Sport Mode)
- Wind Resistance: 10.7 m/s
- Transmission Range: 12 km with OcuSync 3.0
DJI Mini 4 Pro:
- Flight Time: 34 minutes (standard), 45 minutes (with extended battery)
- Max Speed: 16 m/s (in Sport Mode)
- Wind Resistance: 10.7 m/s
- Transmission Range: 20 km with OcuSync 4.0
The flight times for both drones are fairly similar, with the Mini 4 Pro offering extended flight time when using its larger battery. Both drones are capable of flying in moderate wind conditions, making them reliable options for outdoor flying. However, the transmission range on the Mini 4 Pro is significantly better, with an impressive range of up to 20 km. This longer range provides more flexibility for long-distance flying, and the OcuSync 4.0 system ensures a stable connection even in challenging environments.
Obstacle Avoidance and Safety Features
This is where the Mini 4 Pro significantly outshines the Mini 3 Pro. While the Mini 3 Pro introduced forward, backward, and downward obstacle sensing, the Mini 4 Pro has taken it a step further with 360-degree omnidirectional obstacle sensing. This feature provides more comprehensive protection when flying in complex environments, reducing the risk of collisions.
Mini 3 Pro Obstacle Avoidance:
- Forward
- Backward
- Downward
Mini 4 Pro Obstacle Avoidance:
- 360-degree omnidirectional
The enhanced safety features in the Mini 4 Pro make it ideal for flying in environments with a lot of obstacles, such as forests, urban areas, or during more complex maneuvers. This is a big plus for users who prioritize flight safety and need more confidence when flying in tricky situations.
Intelligent Flight Modes
Both drones come with DJI’s suite of intelligent flight modes, but the Mini 4 Pro adds more advanced capabilities:
Mini 3 Pro Intelligent Flight Modes:
- QuickShots
- MasterShots
- FocusTrack (ActiveTrack, Point of Interest, and Spotlight)
- Hyperlapse
Mini 4 Pro Intelligent Flight Modes:
- QuickShots
- MasterShots
- FocusTrack 4.0 (Advanced ActiveTrack, Point of Interest, and Spotlight)
- Hyperlapse
- Waypoints
The inclusion of Waypoints on the Mini 4 Pro makes it stand out for users who want more control over the drone’s flight path. This is particularly useful for professional cinematographers and those working on complex projects requiring precise flight routes.
Comparison Table: DJI Mini 3 Pro vs DJI Mini 4 Pro
| Feature | DJI Mini 3 Pro | DJI Mini 4 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | < 249g | < 249g |
| Sensor Size | 1/1.3-inch CMOS | 1/1.3-inch CMOS |
| Photo Resolution | 48 MP | 48 MP (Enhanced HDR) |
| Video Resolution | 4K at 60fps | 4K at 60fps, 10-bit HDR |
| Max Flight Time | 34 minutes | 34 minutes (45 min with extended battery) |
| Transmission Range | 12 km (OcuSync 3.0) | 20 km (OcuSync 4.0) |
| Max Speed | 16 m/s | 16 m/s |
| Obstacle Avoidance | Forward, Backward, Downward | 360-degree omnidirectional |
| Intelligent Flight Modes | QuickShots, MasterShots, FocusTrack | QuickShots, MasterShots, FocusTrack 4.0, Waypoints |
| Wind Resistance | 10.7 m/s | 10.7 m/s |
| ISO Range | 100-6400 | 100-6400 |
| Digital Zoom | 4x (2x lossless in 1080p) | 4x (2x lossless in 4K) |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
Check Amazon reviews and price of DJI mini 3 pro here.
Check Amazon reviews and price of DJI mini 4 pro here.
FAQs for DJI Mini 3 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro
- What is the main difference between the Mini 3 Pro and Mini 4 Pro?
The Mini 4 Pro has better obstacle avoidance, longer transmission range, and improved camera features, including 10-bit color and HDR video. - Can both drones shoot in 4K?
Yes, both the Mini 3 Pro and Mini 4 Pro can shoot in 4K at 60fps. - What is the flight time difference?
Both drones have a standard flight time of 34 minutes, but the Mini 4 Pro can achieve up to 45 minutes with an extended battery. - Do they both weigh under 250 grams?
Yes, both the Mini 3 Pro and Mini 4 Pro weigh less than 249 grams. - Which drone is better for beginners?
The Mini 3 Pro is more budget-friendly and easier for beginners, but the Mini 4 Pro offers better safety features. - Can I use the same batteries for both drones?
No, the Mini 4 Pro uses a new battery system. - Do both drones have obstacle avoidance?
Yes, but the Mini 4 Pro has 360-degree omnidirectional obstacle avoidance, while the Mini 3 Pro has forward, backward, and downward sensors. - What’s the difference in camera performance?
The Mini 4 Pro has better HDR capabilities and supports 10-bit color, making it ideal for professional video work. - Is there a price difference?
Yes, the Mini 4 Pro is more expensive than the Mini 3 Pro due to its advanced features. - Which drone has better range?
The Mini 4 Pro has a transmission range of 20 km compared to the Mini 3 Pro’s 12 km. - Do both drones support Waypoints?
No, Waypoints is only available on the Mini 4 Pro. - What kind of controller comes with the Mini 4 Pro?
The Mini 4 Pro comes with the DJI RC-N2 controller, which offers improved transmission performance. - Can I record hyperlapse videos on both drones?
Yes, both drones support Hyperlapse video mode. - Which one is better for professional use?
The Mini 4 Pro, due to its enhanced camera features, transmission range, and intelligent flight modes. - Do they have the same maximum speed?
Yes, both drones have a maximum speed of 16 m/s. - Which drone offers better wind resistance?
Both drones offer the same level of wind resistance (10.7 m/s). - Is the Mini 4 Pro harder to fly than the Mini 3 Pro?
Not necessarily. The additional safety features like 360-degree obstacle avoidance make the Mini 4 Pro safer and easier to fly in complex environments. - Which drone has a better display?
Both drones use the DJI Fly app, but the Mini 4 Pro's controller supports OcuSync 4.0, providing a clearer, more reliable transmission. - Can I use the same accessories for both drones?
Some accessories like propellers may be compatible, but batteries and controllers are not interchangeable. - Which one is more future-proof?
The Mini 4 Pro, due to its enhanced features and compatibility with newer DJI technologies.
Conclusion
Both the DJI Mini 3 Pro and Mini 4 Pro are exceptional drones, but the Mini 4 Pro offers more advanced features for professional users, including better camera performance, 360-degree obstacle avoidance, and longer transmission range. If you’re a beginner or on a budget, the Mini 3 Pro remains an excellent choice. However, for those seeking the best of the Mini series, the Mini 4 Pro is worth the investment.