The drone world's worst-kept secret has
finally been unveiled, and it's called the DJI Air 3. As expected, all the
rumors surrounding this new drone have turned out to be true. Priced at $1,099
and up, the Air 3 comes with a host of improvements, including two cameras, 46
minutes of battery life, enhanced Occusync 4 connectivity, and a brand-new design
reminiscent of the recently released Mavic 3 and Mavic 3 Pro. However, despite
these upgrades, some may find the Air 3 to be somewhat underwhelming compared
to DJI's other offerings.
Image Quality and Camera
Performance
One of the primary concerns for drone
enthusiasts is whether DJI has sacrificed image quality in favor of
versatility. Thankfully, the Air 3 manages to deliver impressive image quality
with its two cameras. The main sensor with an f/1.7 aperture lens performs
remarkably well in low-light conditions, capturing beautiful aerial images. The
second 3x telephoto lens, with an f/2.8 aperture, provides additional
versatility, but it does have some limitations. The footage from the telephoto
camera can appear a bit flat, lacking the stunning bokeh effect seen in other
cameras. Moreover, switching between the two lenses may require adjusting the
ISO, which can introduce more noise into the clips.
Video Capabilities
The DJI Air 3 excels in video
capabilities, offering the ability to film in 4K 60fps without any cropping.
Most features, such as Active Track, Night Mode, and 4K 100fps, work flawlessly
with both lenses. However, the drone does not support true vertical filming by
flipping the camera 90 degrees; instead, it enables filming in an open gate
mode, avoiding cropping of the horizontal footage.
Photography Features
For photography enthusiasts, the DJI Air 3
captures 12MP photos with impressive results. The RAW files provide ample
information for post-processing adjustments. However, there's mention of a 48MP
photo mode in the specifications, but it seems to be missing from the menu,
possibly awaiting a future firmware update.
Controller and Connectivity
The Air 3 comes with a new controller that
performs well, and DJI's upgraded OcuSync connectivity system further enhances
the drone's performance. With a rated range of 20km (12 miles), the Air 3
offers an extended flying experience, but users should adhere to legal
regulations regarding drone flights.
Color Profiles and Night Mode
DJI has replaced its D-Log color profile
with D-Log M, which is easier to color grade and doesn't require filming at
high ISO. However, it does have less dynamic range than its predecessor, which
may disappoint some users. The Night Mode, introduced in the Mavic 3, also
finds its way into the Air 3, allowing for increased ISO up to 12800 and
applying in-camera noise reduction to the footage.
Design and Noise
The Air 3's design closely resembles the
Mavic 3 and Mavic 3 Pro, showcasing a sleek and modern look. Notably, the drone
emits an audible noise rated at 81 dB, but the propellers' larger size results
in a lower-frequency, less piercing sound compared to previous models.
Final Verdict
The DJI Air 3 is undeniably a capable
drone with numerous enhancements over its predecessor. However, it falls short
in terms of innovation, as it combines old ideas from other DJI products. With
its price point neatly fitting between the Mini and Mavic 3, the Air 3 offers a
balance of features for potential buyers to consider. Whether it's the
portability of the sub-250g Mini, the image quality of the Mavic 3, or the
versatility of the Air 3, the decision ultimately lies with the individual's
specific preferences and requirements.
As drone enthusiasts eagerly look to the
future, they hope to see more groundbreaking features and novel innovations
from DJI. The inclusion of built-in ND filters, 360 cameras, adjustable
aperture options, or other cutting-edge technologies in upcoming releases could
excite users and reinvigorate the drone market. Until then, the DJI Air 3
remains a reliable choice for those seeking a capable flying camera with a few
welcomed improvements.
