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DJI Mini 3 and DJI Mini 4 Pro have some key differences, but both offer DJI’s latest drone technology. However, The Mini 4 Pro is the newer and more advanced model, offering improvements in obstacle sensing, transmission range, and tracking features. The DJI Mini 3 is lightweight, beginner-friendly, and has longer flight time. Let’s explore their differences and similarities to find your perfect fit!
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Processor:
- DJI Mini 4 Pro features an upgraded flight processor that enables advanced tracking, obstacle sensing, and higher frame rate video.
- DJI Mini 3 uses a simpler processor that supports essential flight and camera operations without advanced tracking.
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Flight Features:
- DJI Mini 4 Pro features Waypoints, Cruise Control, and ActiveTrack 360° that provide more automated and creative flight paths.
- DJI Mini 3 lacks these intelligent flight features and only includes basic QuickShots.
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Connectivity:
- DJI Mini 4 Pro supports O4 transmission that increases range to 20km and improves signal stability in interference-prone areas.
- DJI Mini 3 uses O2 transmission with a maximum range of 10km.
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Video Resolution:
- DJI Mini 4 Pro supports 4K at 100fps that allows for smooth, high-resolution slow-motion footage.
- DJI Mini 3 records video up to 4K at 30fps.
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Digital Zoom:
- DJI Mini 4 Pro supports 4x digital zoom that helps capture subjects without needing to fly closer.
- DJI Mini 3 supports up to 2x digital zoom.
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Controller Technology:
- DJI Mini 4 Pro comes with the DJI RC 2 controller that includes dual antennas for better signal quality and a more intuitive experience.
- DJI Mini 3 pairs with a standard controller that lacks built-in antennas and screen.
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Night Mode:
- DJI Mini 4 Pro includes Night Mode that improves low-light shooting quality through noise reduction.
- DJI Mini 3 does not include a dedicated night mode.
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Storage Transfer:
- DJI Mini 4 Pro support USB-C file transfer for faster and more efficient file transfers directly from the drone.
- DJI Mini 3 lacks a direct USB-C transfer option.
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Specs at a Glance
| Feature |
DJI Mini 4 Pro |
DJI Mini 3 |
| Video Transmission |
O4 (20km) |
O2 (10km) |
| Obstacle Avoidance |
Omnidirectional |
Downward only |
| Tracking |
ActiveTrack 360° |
No ActiveTrack |
| Max Video Resolution |
4K 100fps |
4K 30fps |
| Camera Sensor |
1/1.3″ CMOS |
1/1.3″ CMOS |
| Aperture |
f/1.7 |
f/1.7 |
| Digital Zoom |
4x |
2x |
| True Vertical Shooting |
Yes |
Yes |
| Waypoints |
Yes |
No |
| Cruise Control |
Yes |
No |
| Max Bitrate |
150 Mbps |
100 Mbps |
| Night Mode |
Yes |
No |
| Wind Resistance |
Level 5 |
Level 5 |
| Controller |
DJI RC 2 with built-in screen |
Standard RC-N1 |
| USB-C Data Transfer |
Yes (High-Speed) |
Basic |
| Intelligent Modes |
MasterShots, Hyperlapse, ActiveTrack 360° |
QuickShots |
Who Should Buy What?
Buy the DJI Mini 4 Pro if you:
- Want the best obstacle avoidance with omnidirectional sensors.
- Need longer-range O4 transmission and faster file transfers.
- Prefer smoother footage with 4K 100fps and ActiveTrack 360°.
- Use advanced features like Waypoints, Cruise Control, and Night Mode.
- Appreciate a controller with a built-in screen for easy setup.
Check DJI Mini 4 Pro Best Price
Buy the DJI Mini 3 if you:
- Want longer flight time per battery charge.
- Are on a tight budget and don’t need advanced tracking features.
- Prefer a lightweight, beginner-friendly drone for casual use.
- Can work without omnidirectional obstacle sensing or waypoint navigation.
- Don’t mind using your smartphone as a screen with the RC-N1 controller.
Check DJI Mini 3 Best Price |
Winner by Category
| Category |
Winner |
| Processor |
DJI Mini 4 Pro |
| Obstacle Avoidance |
DJI Mini 4 Pro |
| O4 Transmission |
DJI Mini 4 Pro |
| Video Resolution |
DJI Mini 4 Pro |
| ActiveTrack 360° |
DJI Mini 4 Pro |
| Night Mode |
DJI Mini 4 Pro |
| Transmission Range |
DJI Mini 4 Pro |
| Waypoints & Cruise Control |
DJI Mini 4 Pro |
| Video Bitrate |
DJI Mini 4 Pro |
| Intelligent Flight Modes |
DJI Mini 4 Pro |
| Digital Zoom |
DJI Mini 4 Pro |
| USB-C Transfer |
DJI Mini 4 Pro |
| DJI RC 2 Controller |
DJI Mini 4 Pro |
FAQ
Does the DJI Mini 4 Pro have better obstacle avoidance than the DJI Mini 3?
Yes, the DJI Mini 4 Pro has omnidirectional obstacle sensing which can detect objects from all directions, while the DJI Mini 3 only includes downward sensing for landing support.
What is the main difference in video transmission range between the DJI Mini 4 Pro and DJI Mini 3?
The DJI Mini 4 Pro supports O4 transmission with a maximum range of 20km, whereas the DJI Mini 3 uses O2 transmission with a 10km maximum range.
Can both drones shoot in vertical mode for social media content?
Yes, both the DJI Mini 4 Pro and DJI Mini 3 support True Vertical Shooting, allowing them to produce content in native portrait orientation.
Which drone is better for low-light or nighttime filming?
The DJI Mini 4 Pro is better for low-light conditions because it features a dedicated Night Mode that enhances image quality in darker environments. The DJI Mini 3 does not include this feature.
Do both drones have the same camera sensor size?
Yes, both drones are equipped with a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor that provides solid image quality for photography and video.
Which drone provides longer flight time on a single charge?
The DJI Mini 3 offers longer flight time, up to 38 minutes with the Intelligent Flight Battery, while the DJI Mini 4 Pro reaches up to 34 minutes.
Can I fly these drones without using a smartphone?
Yes, the DJI Mini 4 Pro comes with the DJI RC 2 controller that has a built-in screen, so you don’t need a smartphone. The DJI Mini 3 typically uses the RC-N1 controller, which requires a phone.
Does the DJI Mini 4 Pro include more intelligent flight features than the DJI Mini 3?
Yes, the DJI Mini 4 Pro includes features like Waypoints, Cruise Control, ActiveTrack 360°, and MasterShots, while the DJI Mini 3 supports only basic modes like QuickShots.
Are both drones under the 250g weight limit for FAA registration?
Yes, both the DJI Mini 4 Pro and DJI Mini 3 weigh under 249g, which means they do not require FAA registration for recreational use in many regions.
Is the DJI Mini 4 Pro significantly more expensive than the DJI Mini 3?
Yes, the DJI Mini 4 Pro is priced higher due to its advanced transmission, obstacle sensing, and intelligent flight features. The DJI Mini 3 is more budget-friendly and suitable for simpler use cases.