DJI Air 3S vs. DJI Mavic 3 Pro - A New King Has Arrived

Summary

In this comprehensive comparison of the DJI Mavic 3 Pro and Air 3S, the reviewer evaluates key features, focusing on camera performance, design, and usability. The Mavic 3 Pro excels in image quality and low-light video shooting, thanks to its larger sensor, while the Air 3S offers greater agility, speed, and overall performance. With improved obstacle avoidance and flight capabilities, the Air 3S emerges as a compelling option for those looking to upgrade from older models. Ultimately, while the Mavic 3 Pro remains a strong contender for photography, the Air 3S is positioned as the new king of folding drones, appealing to a wider audience.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Mavic 3 Pro excels in video quality, particularly in low-light conditions, thanks to its larger sensor and night shooting mode.
• 📸 The Air 3S produces more pleasing images overall, with better flexibility in editing RAW files, making it a strong contender for photo shoots.
• ⚡ The Air 3S is faster than the Mavic 3 Pro, with a maximum speed of 60 MPH, making it ideal for capturing dynamic shots.
• 🔍 Both drones have similar designs and features, such as omnidirectional obstacle avoidance, but the Air 3S has upgraded sensors for low-light performance.
• 🌌 The Mavic 3 Pro's software allows for better low-light video, effectively reducing noise at higher ISO settings compared to the Air 3S.
• 🔋 The Air 3S outperforms the Mavic 3 Pro in flight time, range, and overall agility, making it a more versatile option for users.
• 🖥️ The remote controller options are comparable, but the Mavic 3 Pro offers the superior RC Pro controller with a better display.
• 💰 The Air 3S is a more cost-effective upgrade for users of older models like the Mavic 2 or Air 2S, especially considering battery and maintenance costs.
• 📊 Specifications indicate the Air 3S outshines the Mavic 3 Pro in almost every performance category, leaving little justification for the latter's higher price.
• 🚀 The review suggests anticipation for a Mavic 4, which may need to significantly outperform the Air 3S to regain its market position.

Q & A

What are the main differences in camera specifications between the Mavic 3 Pro and the Air 3S?

The Mavic 3 Pro features a true 20-megapixel 4/3 sensor, while the Air 3S has a smaller sensor. This gives the Mavic 3 Pro an edge in retaining detail and dynamic range in photos.

How does low-light video performance compare between the two drones?

The Mavic 3 Pro dominates in low-light video due to its larger sensor and dedicated night mode, which allows for higher ISO settings and effective noise reduction. The Air 3S struggles, producing muddier and softer footage in low-light conditions.

Why does the presenter prefer the Air 3S for video shooting?

The presenter prefers the Air 3S for video because they believe it offers better overall image quality, despite the Mavic 3 Pro's advantages in low-light performance.

What design features do the Mavic 3 Pro and Air 3S share?

Both drones share a compact, foldable design, omnidirectional obstacle avoidance, and similar ports and battery designs, providing a similar user experience.

What is the maximum speed of the Air 3S, and how does it compare to the Mavic 3 Pro?

The Air 3S has a maximum speed of 60 MPH, making it 13 MPH faster than the Mavic 3 Pro, which enhances its agility and suitability for dynamic shooting scenarios.

How does the Air 3S's obstacle avoidance system improve over previous models?

The Air 3S introduces a new LAR sensor that enhances obstacle detection in low-light situations, allowing for better navigation and safety during flights.

What role do ND filters play in drone photography, especially for the Air 3S?

ND filters allow for proper exposure control without needing an adjustable aperture, helping to achieve better image quality by managing light intake effectively, particularly in bright conditions.

What are the differences in remote controller options between the two drones?

The Mavic 3 Pro supports the RC Pro, which has a built-in display, while the Air 3S can use several remotes, including the newer RC N2 and RC N3, benefiting from enhanced image transmission technology.

Why is the presenter hesitant to recommend upgrading from the Mavic 3 Pro if someone already owns it?

The presenter suggests that if users have already invested in the Mavic 3 Pro, it may not be wise to switch to the Air 3S, especially with a potential Mavic 4 on the horizon that could offer further advancements.

What personal experiences did the presenter share regarding the use of the Mavic 3 Pro?

The presenter expressed sentimental feelings towards the Mavic 3 Pro, highlighting its role in their travels and commercial shoots over the past three years, which made the decision to replace it with the Air 3S significant.