DJI Mini 3 Pro Review

The DJI Mini 3 Pro emerges as a front-runner in the world of portable drones. If you're seeking a model that can be easily transported but doesn't compromise on crucial components such as video quality, look no further.

Performance Comparison

Video Quality

While drones are fun to fly, most pilots are seeking video footage or photos from their flights, so video quality is worth 45% of the total score of the Mini 3 Pro. We tested the video quality of each drone by capturing photos and video footage of the same flight path at similar times of day, examining resolution, color quality, color saturation, propeller intrusion and camera stability. We then played each model's footage simultaneously on identical monitors, side-by-side, to get a clear comparison. The Mini 3 scored relatively well in this metric, landing in the middle of the pack, but when considering its portability, this drone offers exceptional video quality.

We were impressed with the photo capabilities of the Mini 3 Pro, with 48 megapixels offering excellent resolution for our high-detail photo tests. All models took nearly identical aerial shots of trees, which demands a great deal from a drone camera. This option was able to handle high-detail shots without oversharpening, where other portable models struggled.

We tested the highlight retention and dynamic range of the Mini 3 Pro by aiming its lens towards the sun. While bright clouds were overexposed, the majority of the image was correctly exposed. Unfortunately, highlights and shadows lacked the detail of other models, though this is to be expected with its sensor size.

In the low light test, our expectations were low, given the small sensor of the Mini 3 Pro, but we were pleasantly surprised with its performance. We were able to shoot low-light footage with relatively minimal noise- something we expected from a more robust camera. Similar to the highlight retention test, this model loses detail in the shadows.

The gimbal stabilization of the Mini 3 Pro was incredible, landing just behind much pricier and larger drones. When considering that this model has zero propeller intrusion, the video quality of the Mini 3 is, conclusively, a significant reason to purchase this drone.

Flight Performance

If a drone can't handle a photographer or videographer's flight demands, they might as well use their land-based camera and figure out another way to get the shot, so we rated this metric at 35% of the total score. We put the Mini 3 Pro through the wringer, with extensive flights of varying lengths performed by an FAA pilot. We chased everything from mountain bikers to ridgelines, thoroughly investigating responsiveness, stability, and how smooth the flight itself was. We also tested the Mini 3's following capabilities without a human pilot, to see if this drone can be trusted on its own. We're pleased to share that this drone came in near the top of the pack, beating out some options nearly twice its size.

The Mini 3 Pro offers excellent take-off and landing, though its modest size and weight cause it to be a bit more sensitive to wind. This option's intelligent flight modes kept up with more robust drones, with decent orbit/point of interest capabilities and excellent following- it has fewer obstacle sensors than other models, so be cautious about more demanding follower flights through tight clearances.

The hover stability of the Mini 3 Pro was exceptional, but once again, its small size makes it more susceptible to wind. It also lacks the customization that larger, more featured options offer, such as adjustable horizontal speed or ascent rates. The max flight time of this model was an impressive 34 minutes, beating out the majority of the competition. Besides a few considerations, the Mini 3 Pro gifts excellent flight performance and will meet the needs of many videographers, photographers, social media influencers, or recreational drone pilots.

Portability

You will, at some point, need to transport your drone to get the shot. Whether it's for an awe-inspiring summit orbit or a beach scene, carrying a drone is a potentially demanding task, so we weighted this metric at 10% of the total score. As a drone that boasts extremely compact dimensions and is a featherweight 249 grams (with the smaller battery), the Mini 3 Pro excels in portability and, rightfully, is at the front of the pack in this metric.

The Mini 3 Pro has an impressive diagonal size of six inches when folded, literally allowing you to put this in your pocket. For fans of the classic Seinfeld TV show, this drone is about the size of George Costanza's wallet, which might be bulky for a wallet, but it's incredibly small for a drone. At 8.7 ounces (or 249 grams), this drone also won't tire you out if you need to carry it long distances. We tried (and failed) to come up with a reason you would leave the Mini 3 at home, it's just too capable and too portable to be left behind on an adventure.

Ease of Use

We weighted this metric at 10% of the total score of the Mini 3 Pro, examining its overall learning curve, setup time out of the box, and the interface's video quality. Like most metrics, this drone performed well when pitted against the competition and is undoubtedly user-friendly.

Out of the box, the Mini 3 Pro is simple to set up, with the propellers already installed. If the battery has some juice, you could literally be flying your shiny new drone in five minutes after you receive it. The controller interface wasn't our favorite, as it uses your phone for the video feed rather than a built-in monitor, but it does keep the size and weight down on the controller. Unfortunately, the controller with the cell phone attached makes it feel top-heavy and unbalanced, so make sure to keep a solid grip on your controller when piloting.

We were impressed with the learning curve of the Mini 3 Pro and had no issues learning to fly. With a max video resolution of 1080p at 30 fps, the video feed offers clear flight visuals, but if you have an older phone, the resolution and fps may suffer. We were able to transmit 7.4 miles from the controller to the drone, ultimately confirming the Mini 3 Pro is amicable to use.

Should You Buy the DJI Mini 3 Pro?

The Mini 3 Pro is the best travel drone we've tested, striking the challenging balance between performance and portability. If you need a content-capturing companion that's easy to fit in any backpack and carry long distances, this is the drone for you. Even if you're staying closer to home, this drone's performance may likely be all that you need, and it's less expensive than higher-end models.

What Other Drone Should You Consider?