DJI Mini 3 vs DJI Mini 3 Pro: Comparison

DJI Mini 3 vs DJI Mini 3 Pro: Comparison

The DJI Mini 2, released in 2020, quickly became one of the most popular beginner drones thanks to its lightweight design, 4K video, and affordability. The DJI Mini 3, introduced in 2022, builds on that foundation with several improvements, particularly in camera flexibility and flight time.

Both drones are under 250g, making them highly portable and accessible to hobbyist pilots. But if you’re deciding between the two, the differences in performance and features could sway your decision.

Here’s how the Mini 2 compares to the newer Mini 3.

Quick Spec Comparison

DJI Mini 3 Pro

Main Camera: 1/1.3" CMOS (Single camera)
Photo Resolution: 48 MP
Video Quality: Up to 4K/60fps
Obstacle Avoidance: Tri-directional
Max Flight Time: 34 minutes (standard battery), 45 minutes (Plus battery, region dependent)
Transmission System: O3
Weight: 249g
Price: £420

 

DJI Mini 3

Main Camera: 1/1.3" CMOS
Photo Resolution: 48 MP
Video Quality: 4K/30fps
Obstacle Avoidance: Downward sensors only
Max Flight Time: Up to 38 mins (51 mins with Intelligent Flight Battery Plus)
Transmission System: O2
Weight: 249g
Price: £459


Camera & Video Quality

Both drones use the same 1/1.3" CMOS sensor, but the Mini 3 Pro’s camera is more capable:

  • DJI Mini 3: 48 MP stills and 4K/30fps video with HDR. Vertical shooting makes it great for social media content.

  • DJI Mini 3 Pro: Offers 48 MP photos and 4K/60fps video, with 1080p/120fps slow motion. The wider f/1.7 aperture improves low-light performance.

For creators who need more flexibility in post-production or want professional-grade footage, the Mini 3 Pro clearly takes the lead.

Flight Time

  • DJI Mini 3: Up to 38 minutes with the standard battery, or up to 51 minutes with the optional Intelligent Flight Battery Plus (though this increases weight beyond 250g).

  • DJI Mini 3 Pro: Slightly less endurance - up to 34 minutes with the standard battery, or up to 45 minutes with the Plus battery.

The standard Mini 3 lasts a little longer, but the difference isn’t huge.

Obstacle Avoidance & Safety

Here’s where the biggest distinction lies:

  • DJI Mini 3: No obstacle avoidance sensors - safety features are limited to GPS stabilisation and Return to Home (RTH).

  • DJI Mini 3 Pro: Adds tri-directional obstacle sensing (forward, backward, and downward), along with Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems (APAS 4.0). It also supports FocusTrack, Point of Interest, and Spotlight modes.

If safety and intelligent flight features matter to you, the Mini 3 Pro is far superior.

Transmission & Range

  • DJI Mini 3: Uses the O2 transmission system, with reliable performance up to 10 km in ideal conditions.

  • DJI Mini 3 Pro: Upgraded to O3 transmission, offering stronger resistance to interference and clearer live feeds at longer ranges.

For flying in urban or challenging environments, the Mini 3 Pro provides a more stable connection.

Portability

Both drones weigh just under 250g with their standard batteries, meaning they avoid additional registration requirements in many countries.

Both also fold down compactly, making them excellent travel companions.

Price Comparison

  • DJI Mini 3: £459

  • DJI Mini 3 Pro: £859

The difference reflects the Pro’s camera upgrades, transmission system, and advanced safety features.

Who Should Choose Which?

  • Choose the DJI Mini 3 if…
     You’re a beginner or casual flyer who wants a lightweight, travel-friendly drone with long battery life and excellent image quality at a more affordable price.

  • Choose the DJI Mini 3 Pro if…
    You’re a content creator or more experienced pilot who values 48 MP photos, 4K/60fps video, obstacle avoidance, and advanced flight modes. The extra investment is worth it if you want a more capable, professional tool.

Ready to buy? You can purchase the DJI Mini 3 from our store with fast shipping and full warranty support.

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