When I got my hands on the DJI Air 2S, I knew I was in for a treat. This drone isn’t just another gadget; it’s a powerhouse designed for serious enthusiasts.
Equipped with advanced features and an impressive camera, it promised a lot. Here’s my full review after spending some time with this beast.
My Experience
After putting the DJI Air 2S through its paces, I can confidently say it’s a stellar piece of tech. From the moment you take off, you’ll notice how user-friendly it is.
The learning curve is minimal, thanks to intuitive controls and features like MasterShots, which simplifies capturing professional-grade footage.
This feature alone transforms the drone into a powerful tool for anyone, regardless of their flying experience. With just a tap, the Air 2S takes control and executes complex aerial maneuvers, ensuring you get the best shot every time.
The camera quality is nothing short of exceptional. The 1-inch sensor combined with 5.4K/30fps and 4K/60fps video capabilities means that every detail is captured with remarkable clarity. Whether you’re shooting in broad daylight or during the golden hour, the large pixels and advanced image processing work together to produce vibrant, true-to-life footage.
The 10-bit Dlog-M color profile is a game-changer for post-production. It captures up to one billion colors, allowing for more flexibility and creativity when editing your videos. This results in footage that not only looks great straight out of the camera but can also be fine-tuned to perfection in post.
The OcuSync 3.0 technology is another highlight, providing a stable and clear video feed up to 7.5 miles away. This is particularly useful for those who love to explore and capture vast landscapes. The transmission is reliable, minimizing the risk of losing connection during critical moments.
Plus, the drone’s ability to sense its environment in four directions adds an extra layer of safety. This feature is especially handy when flying in complex environments or at high speeds, as it helps avoid obstacles automatically.
One of my favorite aspects of the DJI Air 2S is the Smart Controller. Its 5.5-inch built-in screen is bright enough to be visible even in direct sunlight, a significant improvement over using a smartphone.
The ergonomic design makes it comfortable to hold for extended periods, and the intuitive layout of controls ensures you can focus on flying without fumbling around. The pre-installed DJI Fly App and SkyTalk feature make sharing your aerial adventures easy and fun.
However, the Air 2S isn’t without its downsides. The price, especially for the Fly More Combo with the Smart Controller, is quite steep. At $1,549, it’s a significant investment.
If budget is a concern, you might consider the standard package without the Smart Controller, which is still quite capable but more affordable.
Additionally, while the default settings are user-friendly, those interested in diving deeper into photography and videography may find the extensive settings a bit overwhelming at first. There are plenty of online resources to help, but it does require some dedication to fully master.
Battery storage is another minor inconvenience. DJI recommends storing batteries at 60% charge, which can be a hassle if you prefer spontaneous flights. It means you often need to top off your batteries before heading out, rather than just grabbing your gear and going.
Pros & Cons
Pros
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- User-Friendly: Intuitive controls and MasterShots make it easy to fly.
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- Outstanding Camera: 1-inch sensor with 5.4K video and 10-bit color profile.
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- Smart Controller: Bright, clear screen and ergonomic design.
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- Extended Range: Reliable video feed up to 7.5 miles.
Cons
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- High Cost: Expensive, especially the Smart Controller package.
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- Complex Settings: May require effort to master for advanced use.
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- Battery Storage: Requires maintaining 60% charge, complicating impromptu flights.
Final Words
The DJI Air 2S is a remarkable drone that excels in both performance and ease of use. Its advanced features make it a valuable tool for anyone looking to capture stunning aerial footage.
While the price and complexity of settings might deter some, the overall package is well worth it for those serious about drone photography and videography.
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pilot, the Air 2S offers a top-tier flying experience that’s hard to beat.
