Which DJI Drones You Should and Shouldn’t Buy This Spring

As spring settles in, it’s an excellent time to dive into the exciting world of drone flying, particularly with DJI, the leader in the drone industry. Whether you’re just starting or ready to upgrade, choosing the right DJI drone can be overwhelming due to the variety of options available. To help you make the best decision, we’ve outlined which DJI drones are worth buying this spring and which ones you might want to hold off on.

Best DJI Drones for Beginners

1. DJI Mini 4K

   • Price: $299

   • The Mini 4K is perfect for beginners. It offers 4K video quality, easy-to-fly controls, and the convenience of no FAA registration (unless used commercially). With a compact design, it’s a reliable option for those getting started in drone flying.

2. DJI Neo

   • Price: $199 (without controller)

   • The DJI Neo is the most affordable option with 4K video capabilities. However, it’s a much smaller drone and doesn’t come with a controller. If you opt for a controller bundle, the price increases to $418, but the Mini 4K might be a better deal if you prefer a controller for ease of use.

3. DJI Flip

   • Price: $439

   • For those who are willing to splurge a little more, the DJI Flip is a solid choice. It features a foldable design, 4K/60 video, and a larger camera sensor for improved image quality. With voice control features and a sub-249g weight, it’s perfect for beginners who want something more advanced without the need for FAA registration.

Best DJI Drones for Enthusiasts

1. DJI Mini 4 Pro

   • Price: Starts at $759

   • The Mini 4 Pro is an excellent option for drone enthusiasts. It boasts a similar camera system to the Flip, but it comes with additional features such as obstacle avoidance, a rotating camera for vertical shooting, and longer flight times. If you use the heavier battery, it will exceed 249g and require FAA registration.

2. DJI Air 3S

   • Price: Starts at $1,099

   • For those stepping into the realm of professional drones, the Air 3S is an excellent choice. It offers dual cameras with wide and telephoto lenses, and the 1-inch sensors significantly improve the quality compared to the Mini drones. This drone is heavier than 249g and requires FAA registration.

Drones to Hold Off On

1. DJI Mavic 3 Pro

   • While the Mavic 3 Pro is a top-tier drone with three cameras and 5.4K video, it might be best to wait for the upcoming Mavic 4 Pro. DJI is likely to release this new model soon, which could offer enhanced features and performance.

2. DJI Mini 3

   • The Mini 3 is outdated for its price point, especially when compared to the Flip. For the same budget, you’re better off with a more advanced model.

Potential Delays and Tariffs to Consider

Before purchasing your DJI drone, it’s essential to understand the current challenges in the supply chain. Due to increased scrutiny at U.S. Customs and tariffs imposed during the Trump administration, DJI drones may face long shipping delays. Some customers have reported extended wait times for their orders due to these issues.

Additionally, tariffs on Chinese drones are not exempt, and this can significantly increase the cost of importing these products. It’s a good idea to buy from local retailers like Amazon or Best Buy to avoid delays caused by overseas shipping.

Alternative Parts and Equipment

For those looking for additional parts or accessories for their drones, you can explore OptiUltra’s parts, PartsProHub’s inventory, and SkyHighParts’ collection. These sites offer high-quality drone parts that may come in handy for any upgrades or replacements.