DJI Mini 4 Pro Drone Unveiled – Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing, 4K 100fps Slow-Mo, and More
DJI has officially introduced the DJI Mini 4 Pro, the latest addition to its entry-level drone series. This "Pro" version brings a range of exciting features to the table, including omnidirectional obstacle sensing, 4K 100fps high-speed recording, and enhanced tracking capabilities.
The Evolution of DJI's Mini Series
DJI's Mini series of drones have always been known for their lightweight design, weighing in at just 249 grams. This weight ensures they remain within the regulations in many countries that require drone pilots to hold licenses or certifications for heavier drones. However, earlier iterations of the DJI Mini lacked obstacle detection and avoidance systems, making them susceptible to collisions. The more advanced Air and Mavic drones from DJI were the only options offering obstacle avoidance at the time. Recognizing the need for improvement, DJI made gradual enhancements. The Mini 3 introduced downward vision sensing, and the Mini 3 Pro added obstacle sensing in most directions, though it had a blind spot laterally.
Image Sensor
The DJI Mini 4 Pro shares the same image sensor as its predecessor, the Mini 3 Pro, featuring a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor with an f/1.7 aperture. This sensor allows for 48MP stills resolution and 4K/60fps HDR video. This innovation is excellent for video professionals who need high-quality footage for their projects. Additionally, DJI introduces "dual native ISO fusion," a feature that combines images shot at dual native ISO settings, promising cleaner images. This technology could open up new possibilities for low-light shooting, reducing noise in Night Shots video mode.
The Mini 4 Pro continues to support 10-bit recording. Notably, it can record in D-Log M, which offers more flexibility in post-processing compared to the previous D-Cinelike mode. HLG recording is available for video, and 48MP RAW stills and Smart Photo technology enhance photo capabilities for videographers.
Enhanced Tracking with ActiveTrack 360°
DJI drones are renowned for their tracking features, which allow even novice videographers to capture complex shots. However, in previous Mini models, using these features could be risky if the drone had blind spots. With omnidirectional sensing in the Mini 4 Pro, tracking is more reliable. The Mini 4 Pro offers three FocusTrack modes: Spotlight, Point of Interest, and ActiveTrack 360°. DJI claims that tracking accuracy has been significantly improved, making it more effective in recognizing and re-planning tracking routes.
ActiveTrack 360° empowers the drone for various shooting scenarios, offering the flexibility to perform camera movements like circling, pulling in, and pulling away. The new Trace wheel interface simplifies these actions, making it accessible for drone operators and their video crews.
Vertical Video for Social Media
To cater to the demand for vertical video for platforms like Instagram and TikTok, as with its predecessor, the DJI Mini 4 Pro allows the camera to rotate 90º, enabling genuine vertical video recording for videographers creating content for social media.
Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing in DJI Mini 4 Pro
With the DJI Mini 4 Pro, DJI has now achieved omnidirectional obstacle sensing. This means the drone can detect obstacles from all directions, greatly improving its tracking capabilities. This development is particularly exciting for video professionals, as it enhances safety and confidence during shoots.
Advanced Features and Accessories
The Mini 4 Pro utilizes DJI's O4 video transmission technology, delivering stable and high-quality wireless video at 1080p/60fps. It offers an impressive flight time of up to 34 minutes on a single charge, which can be extended to 45 minutes with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus (sold separately). Optional accessories include a wide-angle lens attachment with a 100º field-of-view and an ND filter set, offering ND16/64/256 filters for various lighting conditions, giving video professionals more options for creative control.
Key Features:
Weight: 249 grams
Obstacle Sensing: Omnidirectional obstacle sensing
Camera: 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor, f/1.7 aperture
Photo Resolution: 48MP stills
Video Resolution: 4K at 100fps, 4K/60fps HDR video
Image Processing: Dual native ISO fusion
Recording Support: 10-bit recording, D-Log M, HLG recording
Tracking Features: FocusTrack with Spotlight, Point of Interest, and ActiveTrack 360°
Camera Movements: Circling, pulling in, and pulling away with Trace wheel interface
Vertical Video: Rotate camera 90º for vertical video
Video Transmission: O4 video transmission at 1080p/60fps
Flight Time: Up to 34 minutes (45 minutes with Intelligent Flight Battery Plus, sold separately)
Optional Accessories: Wide-angle lens attachment (100º field-of-view), ND filter set (ND16/64/256 filters)
Pricing and Availability
The DJI Mini 4 Pro is available in various bundles, with options to choose between the DJI RC-N2 or the DJI RC2 remote controller. Prices start at EUR 799, with the DJI Mini 4 Pro Fly More Combo priced at EUR 1,129.
You can read more detailed information about the DJI Mini 4 Pro by visiting DJI's website here.
