Just a few days in the past, DJI despatched me their soon-to-be-released DJI Flip Drone. Though they most likely defined every thing about it within the emails they despatched, I’ll admit—I didn’t learn a phrase. As an alternative, I ripped open the field, grabbed the drone, and determined to determine it out by myself.After I first noticed it, I assumed (based mostly solely on its title and the weird propeller guards) that it was some type of stunt drone able to performing backflips and loopy aerobatics. I used to be utterly mistaken. The DJI Flip Drone falls below the ultralight class, weighing simply 249 grams. These quirky propeller guards? They’re all about security, permitting the drone to bounce off objects with out damaging itself—or no matter it hits. That’s a characteristic I examined unintentionally greater than as soon as!
DJI despatched me their Fly More Combo, which incorporates: the DJI Flip Drone, three batteries for prolonged flight time, the brand new RC 2 distant management with a built-in display, and a charging hub. I used to be particularly excited to check out the RC 2. As somebody who had beforehand invested almost $1,000 in DJI’s older Good Controller, I used to be curious to see how this one in contrast. The decision? The RC 2 is phenomenal. It boots up extraordinarily shortly, the display is sharp and vivid even outside, and the interface looks like utilizing a contemporary smartphone—easy and responsive.
At first, I didn’t anticipate a lot from the Flip Drone. It’s small and light-weight, and I assumed the picture high quality would really feel like a toy. However as soon as I received it up within the air, I used to be blown away. The stay feed on the RC 2 display was the perfect I’ve ever seen on any drone, with sharp, vibrant video that exceeded my expectations. What actually stunned me was the drone’s pace and effectivity. Swapping batteries within the subject? Extremely quick. The drone and controller reconnect in seconds—one thing that’s painfully gradual on older drones.
Studying the press launch (after my preliminary flights), I discovered concerning the Flip Drone’s autonomous flying capabilities: You may fly it with the RC 2, your iPhone, or let it fly itself utilizing voice instructions. Spotlight a topic in your cellphone, and the drone will observe it mechanically. I examined this whereas driving my electrical skateboard at 20 mph, weaving by means of a slender road, and it saved up completely. It even has MasterShots, the place it autonomously captures a wide range of cinematic pictures—circles, flyovers, and extra—then edits every thing collectively for you, full with music. The outcomes? Shockingly good. I’d spend 45 minutes creating related edits manually, however the Flip Drone does it in seconds.
One space the place the Flip Drone struggles is powerful winds. At about 20 mph winds, the drone would generally refuse to carry out superior photograph or video modes, displaying warnings to return dwelling. This isn’t stunning for such a small and lightweight drone, however it’s one thing to remember when you plan to make use of it in less-than-ideal situations.
This drone is ideal for rookies. It’s straightforward to fly, ultra-safe with its built-in propeller guards, and versatile sufficient to fly with a controller, a cellphone, or simply your voice. Should you’re new to drones or need one thing light-weight and moveable, that is the best alternative. That stated, if video high quality is your high precedence, you would possibly need to take a look at a bigger drone like DJI’s Mavic series, which balances compact measurement with higher-quality cameras.
After I checked out the value of the Flip, I used to be much more impressed. Right here’s the breakdown: Drone + Controller (no built-in display): $439. Drone + RC 2 Controller with Display: $639. Fly More Combo (with further batteries and equipment): $779. For what you’re getting, this pricing is unbelievable. The RC 2 alone is definitely worth the improve, given how significantly better it performs in comparison with earlier controllers.
After utilizing the DJI Flip Drone for a couple of days, I’m genuinely impressed. Its portability, ease of use, and superior options make it a standout alternative for informal customers and budding drone lovers. Certain, it’s a bit bulkier to pack than another ultralight drones, however the added security of the propeller guards is nicely definitely worth the tradeoff when you’re a brand new pilot. Should you’re in search of a drone that’s straightforward to fly, filled with good options, and surprisingly inexpensive, the DJI Flip Drone is a no brainer.
