DJI is known for its innovation in the gadget industry, and its drones are no exception. The company constantly pushes boundaries and introduces new features to enhance the capabilities of its drones. One such recent innovation is the dual primary camera setup on the DJI Air 3 camera drone, which opens up new possibilities for pilots and allows them to create cinematic shots in two different ways.
Unlike previous models where the telephoto camera was of lesser quality, the dual primary cameras on the Air 3 have the same specifications. This means that both cameras can deliver excellent image quality, providing pilots with more options for creating stunning footage. The Air 3 also boasts several improvements over its predecessors, the Air 2 and Air 2S.
The Air 3 is equipped with DJI’s new O4 transmission system, which significantly increases the range of the drone. This allows pilots to fly the drone further away and explore new areas. Additionally, the Air 3 introduces the Waypoint feature to the Air series for the first time. This feature allows pilots to plan and execute precise flight paths, providing more control and creativity during flights. The drone also has a much-improved battery life and is considerably quieter, thanks to its larger propellers and aerodynamic design.
In terms of features, the Air 3 matches the Mavic 3 Pro feature for feature. It has obstacle detection all around, focus tracking, Hyperlapse, and more, making it a versatile tool for both hobbyists and professionals.
While the Air 3 has received praise for its dual primary cameras, great image quality, long battery life, and reliable obstacle protection, there are a few drawbacks. Some users may find the charging process to be slow, and there have been occasional reports of subject-tracking lag. Additionally, some buyers may consider the 1/1.3-inch sensors on the Air 3 as a downgrade compared to the 1-inch sensor on the Air 2S.
To assess the performance of the Air 3, a drone pilot took it flying in France’s Loire Valley. The Air 3’s design closely resembles the Mavic 3, with a dual-camera module up front and a folding mechanism that makes it compact for travel. The drone has omnidirectional sensors for obstacle detection and comes with both microSD and internal storage options. It is slightly heavier than the Air 2S but incorporates aerodynamic features from the Mini 3 Pro, resulting in reduced noise and better wind resistance.
One of the standout features of the Air 3 is its improved battery life. With its high-capacity batteries, the drone can fly for up to 46 minutes, significantly longer than its predecessors. DJI has also introduced a charging feature that allows users to transfer power from weaker batteries to the most charged one, enabling longer flights in locations without charging options.
The Air 3 also benefits from DJI’s next-gen O4 video transmission system, which increases the drone’s range to 20 km, overcoming limitations imposed by European regulations. In terms of performance, the Air 3 offers a good balance between stability and agility, making it suitable for various scenarios, from following fast-moving subjects to navigating through obstacles.
The Air 3 incorporates all of DJI’s popular features, such as Active Track, Master Shots, Quickshots, and Timelapse, which work seamlessly with both cameras. The addition of the telephoto camera adds new possibilities for creative shots and enhances features like Dronie and Rocket. The obstacle detection system ensures safety during flights, automatically aborting flights if the drone gets too close to an object.
The Air 3’s dual cameras deliver excellent image quality and offer a range of focal lengths for different types of shots. The identical sensors make it easy to match footage from both cameras during editing. The cameras also support dual native ISO for improved light sensitivity and can shoot 4K HDR footage at 60p or 4K footage at up to 100 fps for slow-motion playback.
In summary, the DJI Air 3 is a feature-packed camera drone that offers pilots a range of creative options and exceptional image quality. With its dual primary cameras, improved battery life, reliable obstacle protection, and extensive feature set, the Air 3 is a worthy successor to the Air 2 and Air 2S. It provides pilots with the tools they need to capture stunning aerial footage and opens up new possibilities for cinematic shots. Whether you’re a professional filmmaker or a hobbyist looking to take your drone photography to the next level, the Air 3 is a solid choice.
