Review: DJI Air 2S – Drone Quadcopter UAV, Gray (Renewed) – Elevated drone photography with robust camera capabilities

Explore game-changing features of DJI Air 2S drone with enhanced capabilities from a pilot’s perspective... Read more

Specifications

Brand	DJI
Model Name	CRTDJIAIR2SRB
Age Range (Description)	Adult
Color	Gray
Video Capture Resolution	5.4K
Item Weight	1.3 Pounds
Control Type	Remote Control
Wireless Communication Technology	Wi-Fi
Battery Cell Composition	Lithium Ion
Are Batteries Included	Yes

Meet the DJI Air 2S: A One-Inch Sensor on a Consumer-Level Drone

Imagine being able to capture life’s magnificent moments from the sky, combining the thrill of flight with the passion for photography; well, that is no longer a dream. Meet DJI Air 2S – a high-performing drone with an astonishing one-inch sensor! I delved into the unique features offered by this consumer-level drone and here are my thoughts and observations.

A Dive into 5.4K Video and 10-Bit Color

First, I was eager to know how the DJI Air 2S copes with video recording capabilities. And boy! I was thrilled that this tiny yet powerful drone not just supports the robust 4K video but also goes a notch higher by packing a punch with 5.4K video recording. It doesn’t stop just there. The DJI Air 2S boasts ten-bit color, providing a wider color space thus rendering those graded and edited aerial footages exuding a professional look. But there’s more to it!

Leveling-Up from 4K at 30FPS to 4K at 60FPS

The drone offers high frame rate recording. Previously, even top drones were limited to 4K at 30 FPS. This limitation has been addressed elegantly by DJI Air 2S, which gracefully handles 4K video at an impressive 60 FPS. This enhancement is a big deal, especially if you fancy capturing slow-motion video while maintaining that crisp and clean 4K resolution.

A point to be critically noted here is that 4K @ 60 FPS does come with a bit of a caveat. There is a slight crop in the image which means you won’t be getting the maximum resolution. The image sensor size does not deliver its full potential. However, even considering this, the overall value that DJI Air 2S provides with high-quality video is pretty amazing for videographers and vloggers alike.

Overall, combining a one-inch sensor with high-grade video recording capabilities, the DJI Air 2S provides an incredible platform for consumer-level drone users who aspire for superior video content. Whether you’re capturing a small event or recording vacation memories, DJI Air 2S has got you covered.

DJI Air 2S vs. Previous Drones: A Hands-On Comparison

• DJI Air 2S offers improved convenience and camera quality
• Air 2S has substantial improvements in camera quality
• DJI Air 2S features improved 4K performance and dynamic range

When it comes to drones, the perspective I’m bringing to this review is that of a seasoned DJI drone user. I’ve spent my fair share of flight time with various drones in the DJI range, from the original DJI Mavic Pro to the DJI Mavic Mini and Mini 2. So, let’s dive right into comparing the DJI Air 2S with these previous drones from my personal experience.

Comparing Size and Ease of Use: Mavic Mini vs. DJI Air 2S

The DJI Mavic Mini and Mini 2 captivated me with their compact size and portability. These tiny drones are convenient to carry around, allowing more spontaneous flights. However, as much as I loved the convenience, I was also acutely aware of the limitations, especially around camera quality. Despite capturing 4K videos, the camera on these minis was essentially on par with the Mavic Pro I was already using.

On the other hand, the DJI Air 2S seems to strike the perfect balance between convenience and quality. It isn’t significantly bigger or heavier than the Minis, but the jump in camera quality is substantial. With its one-inch sensor and 5.4K video capability, the Air 2S has undoubtedly raised the bar for consumer drone cameras.

The Camera Quality Evolution: Mavic Pro to DJI Air 2S

Speaking of camera quality, let’s delve a little deeper into this critical aspect. The original DJI Mavic Pro was my trusted companion for years and never failed to deliver. Yet, when it came to video quality, it was capped at 4K at 30 FPS. As someone who enjoys getting creative with footage, the opportunity to slow down footage in post-production without losing quality was absent.

Moving on to the DJI Air 2S , it’s clear that DJI took the 4K video limitation to heart. The leap to 5.4K video at 60 FPS opens up a whole new world of possibilities. Yes, it does have a slight crop in image when recording at 60 FPS, but the ability to slow down footage while maintaining great quality is a worthy trade-off.

Ready for Close-Up: The Bigger Sensor and Improved 4K Performance

The DJI Air 2S has clearly taken steps in the right direction with their enhanced camera, boasting its improved 4K performance and dynamic range. I found the larger one-inch sensor brought some hallmark improvements in low light, and the 20 megapixels provided sufficient details in every shot.

Looking back at my drones of yesteryears, none of them managed to quite deliver this level of dynamic range or detail in their 4K performance. So with the DJI Air 2S, it feels like we’re finally witnessing a substantial evolution in consumer drones’ camera technology.

In conclusion, the DJI Air 2S stands out when compared to earlier drones in the DJI lineup. However, these upgrades might not be significant enough for every drone user and the decision to upgrade should be made based on individual preferences and needs.

DJI Air 2S: A Critics Take on Advanced Camera Features

• DJI Air 2S has a higher bitrate than traditional drone
• Offers wider frame with 22 millimeters shooting angle
• Significant digital zoom capabilities

Delving deeper into the notable camera attributes of the DJI Air 2S, it’s clear that its nuanced improvements have a significant impact on the photographic experience.

Bitrate: A New Standard on DJI Air 2S

Upon using the DJI Air 2S, one of the first things that caught my attention was the marvelous bitrate. Traditional drones have been known to record 4K video. However, the painfully low bitrate made the 4K quite grainy and unrefined. In my experience, a bitrate plays a crucial part in delivering a cleaner, superior video quality. Thankfully, the DJI Air 2S recognizes this and ups the ante. It delivers a bitrate of up to 150 megabits per second, a huge leap from the 100 megabits you find on flagship drones like the DJI Mavic Pro 2. The richness and clarity that this added bitrate provides to the video quality is sincerely a game-changer.

A Wider Glimpse: The Lens Focal Length

Moving on to the lens. Another attribute that stands out about DJI Air 2S is its wider focal length. The camera lens gives you a shooting angle of 22 millimeters. This is a step up when compared with the traditional 24 millimeters and 28 millimeters on most drones. Speaking from experience, a wider frame does an excellent job in capturing more details and providing immersive shots.

Detail Matters: Digital Zooming Capabilities

If we talk about its zooming capabilities, the Air 2S truly shook me. When shooting at 1080p at 60 FPS, I could zoom in digitally up to six times, while maintaining a decent video quality. Even while recording in 4K at 60 FPS, I could afford a digital zoom up to thrice. However, it’s worth noting that 5.4k doesn’t support zooming.

The zooming capacity of the DJI Air 2S is considerably impressive when compared to most drones in this price bracket. This provides me, as a user, with great flexibility in capturing immersive and detailed footage without moving the drone too close to the subject — a true testimony to its peerless advanced camera features.

To sum it up, the DJI Air 2S’s camera churns out detailed and brilliant footage, thanks largely to its high bitrate, wider frame, and bootstrap zooming capabilities. Yet like all consumer tech, it isn’t flawless. The incompatibility of zooming in 5.4k mode is a letdown. But looking at the bigger picture, DJI Air 2S’s camera is a huge step up from its preceding models and competes firmly with flagship drones.

The DJI Air 2S Panorama: Capturing Wide and High-Quality Shots

• DJI Air 2S offers high-quality panoramic capabilities
• Facilitates ultra-wide angle and top-down photography
• Offers user-friendly interface and broad creative options

Every piece of tech we interact with brings its own unique flair into our lives, but there’s always that one feature that stands out and transforms our experience. In the DJI Air 2S, that’s the panoramic capability. How else can you describe a feature that enables you to capture vast landscapes in high resolution from an aerial perspective, if not simply thrilling?

Getting A Kick From Ultra-Wide Panorama

The DJI Air 2S’s ultra-wide panorama feature offers a broad spectrum of angles for taking captivating photos. This ability lets you fully immerse in your creative capabilities, sieving through a variety of shots to find just the type that fits your narrative most effectually. It’s neither an exaggeration nor a biased standpoint to say that my most striking atmosphere-rich shots were achieved thanks to this broad leeway.

However, having used drones with similar functionality, I must admit that the DJI Air 2S takes a top spot in rendering these images. The high-resolution sensor plays a substantive role in this un-compromised quality, while creating an easy-to-use interface that makes this feature accessible even to absolute beginners.

Experiencing Top-Down Photography

Another unique feature noteworthy of mention is the drone’s ability to capture images from a top-down perspective. This feature, coupled with the drone’s high altitude capacity, gives some of the most breathtaking shots of landscapes, vast fields, or crowded places. It opens up an angle of visual storytelling that’s both profound and compelling.

The top-down feature makes it possible for footage that is usually reserved for high-budget filming accessible at a much more affordable level. However, users should be aware of the local regulations and policies regarding flying heights and take them into consideration before soaring the skies.

Conclusion

Focusing on the panoramic capabilities of the DJI Air 2S, its evident that the drone has significantly upped the ante in the production of high-quality, wide-angle and bird’s-eye view photography. It opens up a world of creative possibilities while still offering simplicity in its usage. While it provides professional-quality results, it maintains the user-friendly interface that is the hallmark of DJI’s drones.

In conclusion, although many drones offer panorama functionality, I must say the DJI Air 2S stands out due to the quality of the images produced, the ease of operation, and the range of creativity it offers to the users.

Master Touch: A Solution for Non-Pilot Drone Camera Users

• Master Touch offers pre-recorded drone instructions
• Enables variety of camera movements automatically
• Caution: system limitations and need for manual skills

Stepping into the world of drone piloting can be daunting, especially for those of us who are more pulled toward the creative endeavor of capturing stunning shots rather than the operational side of manually controlling a flying device. If navigational tasks feel like Greek to you but you’re still enveloped by a compelling urge to capture captivating footage from an aerial perspective, DJI has got your back with its Master Touch feature.

Discover the ease with pre-recorded instructions

Master Touch erases your piloting woes by offering pre-recorded instructions to your drone, simplifying the process to a single touch, hence the moniker. Why bother with the complexities of mastering the drone to capture perfect shots, when you’ve got a feature that generates those results for you?

Cinematic shots made simple

All the moves you’d ordinarily have to learn as a drone pilot are simply handed over to the drone itself – dolly shots, pan-ups, dronies, and rockets. The variety and versatility of camera movements at your disposal are quite impressive.

You merely need to set the timer, identify the target, and let Master Touch do the rest. It’s like having an experienced drone pilot and an accomplished videographer rolled into one, maneuvering your drone expertly through the air and capturing the desired shots seamlessly without any manual input.

A word of caution, though…

While Master Touch is undoubtedly a fantastic feature for the less experienced drone pilots or those focussed on camera results, we must remember that relying solely on automated features comes with its own concerns. The feature assumes that its set of movements and instructions would cater to the artistic sensibilities of every drone user, which isn’t always the case. For instance, it sometimes executes a standard wide-angle sweep for scenery shots, even when a more intimate, cropped angle might have made a more compelling image from a story-telling perspective. In uncertain weather or under unanticipated aerial situations, programmed responses might not be adequate either. It’s always advisable to get a basic handle on piloting your drone manually.

Wrapping it up…

In conclusion, while the Master Touch feature on the DJI Air 2S is undoubtedly a lifesaver for novices keen to capture high-quality shots, it also makes a handy resource for experienced flyers who occasionally prefer to focus more on the composition of the shots than the technicalities of flying. At the same time, never shying away from gaining a good manual grasp on drone operations can only serve to enhance your overall drone filming experience.

APAS 4.0 and Extra Obstacle Detection Sensors on DJI Air 2S

• APAS 4.0 improves DJI Air 2S drone’s safety and speed.
• ‘Break’ function prevents potential collisions.
• Extra sensors contribute to obstacle detection.

In journeying through the DJI Air 2S’s robust suite of features, one can’t help but appreciate the value of the latest upgrades in safety and obstacle detection: the APAS 4.0 and extra obstacle detection sensors.

Aiding Higher Speeds and Improved Safety: Meet the APAS 4.0

With DJI’s developers keen on constantly stepping up the safety game in their drones, the introduction of the APAS 4.0 system comes as a refreshing, and crucial upgrade. This advanced system combines the prowess of the manufacturer’s obstacle detection and avoidance technology. It empowers the drone with the ability to suss out oncoming obstacles and adjust its flight path accordingly, even at higher speed segments. The effects of this were immediately apparent in the footage I got.

What blew me away was how smooth and continuous the resulting footage was. Previously, in a similar situation and with older models, the drone would simply stop, interrupting the smooth flight path and inevitably, leading to jarring footage.

Navigating Safely Without Crashing: The Break Function

Another massive lifeline for me was the inclusion of the ‘break’ function. Now to be clear, this doesn’t disintegrate your drone mid-air. What it does, however, is to bring our flying friend to a swift, safe stop in the face of potential collisions, proving to be especially useful during ‘follow me’ operations or fast-paced flights.

I had a near collision with a tree, and yet thanks to these sensors, the DJI Air 2S neither crashed into the obstacle nor came to an abrupt stop. Instead, the drone intelligently circumvented the obstacle, be it by flying over it, going around it, or smoothly stopping in its track; all the while ensuring that the footage remained steady and continuous.

The inclusion of these extra sensors was certainly a delightful surprise, and their utility and response reinforcement provided tangible value to my drone operation experience.

Takeaway:

The augmented safety advancements and obstacle detection features, in particular, the APAS 4.0 and the extra sensors, amplify the DJI Air 2S drone’s appeal, especially for beginners, intermediate or even distracted pilots.

Whether these features prove essential for your flying needs will depend on how often you find yourself in tricky obstacle courses or how confident you are in your piloting skills. But from my experience and considering the potential mishaps they can prevent, they’re worth celebrating.

Evaluating the DJI Air 2S Price: Is the Fly More Combo Worth It?

• DJI Air 2S offers consumer-friendly appeal and pro-level traits
• Fly More Combo offers extra batteries, ND filters, and accessories
• The Combo offers tangible value for serious drone enthusiasts

In the drone world, price and value can occasionally appear to exist on two divergent runways. However, the question that often surfaces is whether the price tag matches the provided features and, more specifically, is the DJI Air 2S Fly More Combo worth the cost?

The Baseline: DJI Air 2S Standard Drone

Let’s start with the standard DJI Air 2S, which out of the box comes with an impressive specification list. For $999 or around 4500 Ringgit in Malaysia, it strides in with its consumer-friendly appeal and pro-level traits such as a one-inch sensor, the capacity for 5.4 K video shooting, smart flight modes, and much more. However, is it the most valuable option when you’re weighing in on what accessories you might need for a comprehensive drone experience?

Stepping Up with the DJI Air 2S Fly More Combo

For an additional $300 or about 1300 Ringgit, you can upgrade to the Fly More Combo. This package bundles in extra goodies such as additional batteries, a carrying bag, a charging dock, ND filters and propellers that could significantly enhance your flying experience and prove convenient in several scenarios. The extra expenditure might appear steep on first glance, but here’s a breakdown of what you get:

• Extra Batteries: Drones typically offer a limited flight time, and the additional batteries provided in the Fly More Combo ensure you get to fly longer without worrying about recharging, especially on long-day shoots.
• ND Filters: These can be a game-changer for videography, offering better control over your footage’s look and feel. ND filters are often considered essential for professional drone operators but come with an extra cost when purchased separately.
• Carrying Bag and Charging Dock: These accessories can be small but critical, specifically when you’re traveling. They contribute to portability and convenience, enhancing your overall user experience.

Hence, if you calculate the cost of these add-ons separately, the Fly More Combo

seems to offer tangible value and, in my opinion, a higher convenience and functionality quotient.

To Combo or Not to Combo?

End of the day, while the DJI Air 2S drone on its own holds a strong position in terms of technical capabilities, the Fly More Combo does present an appealing case for those serious about drone flying and looking for an enriched, hassle-free, and comprehensive experience. It seems to be thoughtfully packaged, keeping a drone enthusiast’s needs in mind. By investing in the combo, you save on added costs down the line and reap benefits from day one.

However, if your drone usage is infrequent or you’re firm on adhering to a tight budget, you might want to weigh your needs carefully. You could consider starting with the standard drone and purchase additional accessories later as and when required.

Remember, making an informed choice that aligns with both your requirements and budget would prove to be the best bet. So, assess wisely!

Who Is the DJI Air 2S Really For?

• DJI Air 2S is great for drone beginners
• A worthwhile upgrade for improved camera performance
• Don’t upgrade without considering your needs

So, you’ve dived deep into the features, capabilities, and comparisons. It all boils down to this question: Who is the DJI Air 2S really designed for? Here’s my two cents!

For the Drone Newbies

If you’re just stepping into the sphere of drone flying and crave good image quality without worrying about nitty-gritty details, the DJI Air 2S is a fantastic choice. The creative possibilities this drone opens up are exciting even for me, who has been in the drone world for over five years.

Reflecting on My Personal Experience

Throughout my experience, the camera aspect alone made my jaws drop. The one-inch sensor on this drone, for its price point, is a powerful stroke of genius. The DJI Air 2S brings a flagship-level camera to a more consumer-friendly package, tantalising both beginners and enthusiasts alike.

What About Experienced Drone Flyers?

If you’re already using the DJI Air 2, you might not see an apparent need for an upgrade unless you’re seeking a significant camera performance boost. The DJI Air 2S brings to the table a bigger sensor size and more dynamic range, making it the drone of choice if your focus is on capturing stunning visuals.

How Does It Fare for DJI Mavic Pro 2 Users?

If you’re currently using the DJI Mavic Pro 2, you may not spot a colossal upgrade here. That is unless you rely heavily on the 5.4K offering and yearn for a more compact design. Your upgrade decision mainly ties down to whether you seek improvements in those areas.

Final Thoughts

All in all, don’t jump on the upgrade bandwagon without thoroughly considering your current needs and the value that DJI Air 2S offers. It goes without saying that if you yearn for a flagship level camera and are just entering the drone world, then DJI Air 2S is unquestionably your go-to option.

Remember, don’t upgrade for the sake of upgrading; do it because it enhances your overall fly and capture experience!

Shooting Under Tough Conditions and With a Newbie Drone Pilot

In testing the DJI Air 2S, it’s crucial to consider its performance under varying circumstances. No scenario captures this notion more effectively than navigating through bad weather and analyzing the drone’s behavior with a novice pilot at the controls.

Drone Navigation in Adverse Weather Conditions

The day of our field test began with a consistent downpour. For many, rain and drones don’t mix. However, this presented a unique opportunity to see how the DJI Air 2S handles harsh conditions.

Despite the heavy rain, the drone remained robust and unfazed. It flew smoothly and looked sturdy during flight. However, as the rain started pouring heavier, flight controls became slightly more challenging, hinting at a possible decrease in the effectiveness of the sensing technology. This could be a major concern for potential users in regions with frequent heavy rains or for those who lack alternative clear weather periods for drone usage.

The First Drone Flight: A Novice Pilot Experience

Given the user-friendly reputation of DJI, we decided to involve a first-time flyer into the testing process. The goal was to ascertain whether DJI Air 2S is truly a drone that can be handled by beginners.

The newbie drone pilot quickly picked up the basic controls. This definitely speaks to the drone’s user-friendliness and easy-to-navigate interface. However, there were some initial apprehensions, mostly because of the fear of crashing an expensive piece of equipment. There’s a sense of vulnerability for first-time users, and the cost factor adds to the anxiety.

While the learning curve was relatively short for our novice pilot, enhanced user guidance or perhaps a ‘Beginner Mode’ could add a level of confidence for new pilots. The implementation of a more intuitive guidance system could be a potential improvement for DJI in future models.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the performance of the DJI Air 2S under adverse conditions was commendable, though with some room for improvement in extreme weather conditions. The user-friendly features make it a viable choice for novice pilots despite a few initial apprehensions. Despite its minor weaknesses, the drone proves to be high-quality, user-friendly, and robust for general users.

Should you buy the DJI Air 2S – Drone Quadcopter UAV, Gray (Renewed)?

Buy it if…

You prioritize high image quality in drones

The DJI Air 2S features a 5.4k resolution video recording with 10-bit color and 4k at 60fps, offering a significant upgrade from earlier models.

You are a beginner in drone flying

The DJI Air 2S comes with the Master Touch feature that provides pre-recorded instructions to the drone, making it perfect for novice drone pilots.

You value safety and obstacle detection in drone flying

The added sensors and APAS 4.0 provide added safety by detecting obstacles and maneuvering around them during flight.

Don’t buy it if…

You are happy with your current DJI Air 2’s camera performance

The upgraded features in the DJI Air 2S mostly revolve around the camera. If you are satisfied with your current model’s capabilities, this upgrade might not be necessary.

You are on a tight budget

With a starting price of $999 or 4500 Ringgit in Malaysia, DJI Air 2S may not be the best choice for those looking for a budget-friendly option.

You seek a more significant upgrade from DJI Mavic Pro 2

There are not many huge upgrades in the DJI Air 2S from the DJI Mavic Pro 2. If you are expecting major changes and advancements, this might not meet your expectations.

FAQ

What makes the DJI Air 2S unique compared to other consumer drones?

The DJI Air 2S features a one-inch sensor, a significant improvement for consumer-level drones. It also supports 5.4K video and 10-Bit color, with smart flight modes and additional sensors for more precise flight.

Can the DJI Air 2S record in 5.4K?

Yes, the DJI Air 2S can record in 5.4K video.

What are the restrictions when recording at 4K at 60 FPS?

Recording at 4K at 60 FPS with the DJI Air 2S slightly crops the image, reducing your maximum resolution.

Does the DJI Air 2S provide any automated filming options?

Yes, the DJI Air 2S offers a ‘master touch’ feature, which lets drone users set pre-recorded instructions for cinematic shot sequences like zooms, dolly shots, and more.

Which is better between a higher megapixel count and a bigger sensor size?

In terms of image quality, a bigger sensor size is often more beneficial than a higher megapixel count. This is because a bigger sensor allows for more light, depth of field, and better dynamic range.

What is the ‘APAS 4.0’?

The ‘APAS 4.0’ is a new feature on the DJI Air 2S that helps detect obstacles, especially at higher speeds, to prevent crashes or abrupt stops.

What’s the difference between the standard and ‘Fly More Combo’ packages?

The ‘Fly More Combo’ package of DJI Air 2S includes additional features and accessories compared to the standard package, making it more recommended.

Is the DJI Air 2S suitable for new drone users?

Yes, the DJI Air 2S, with its easy-to-use features and consumer-level price, is suitable even for those new to drone flying.