DJI Announces Inspire 3 with 8K Full Frame Zenmuse X9-8K Air Camera
DJI, the world's leading manufacturer of unmanned aerial vehicles, has just announced the release of their latest drone, the DJI Inspire 3 with Zenmuse X9-8K camera. This new drone is targeted at high-end video production professionals who require high-quality aerial footage for their projects.
One of the standout features of the DJI Inspire 3 is its camera. The Zenmuse X9-8K camera is capable of recording 8K resolution video at 30 frames per second, which is a significant upgrade from the previous Inspire model. The camera also has a 35mm sensor, which is larger than the previous model's 1-inch sensor. Meaning the camera is capable of capturing more light and producing higher-quality images with better dynamic range.
Camera and Sensor:
8K video resolution at 30 frames per second
35mm full-frame CMOS sensor
14 stops of dynamic range
H.265 and H.264 video codecs
ProRes 422 HQ and ProRes 4444 XQ recording formats
Aspect Ratios:
16:9
2.39:1 (Cinemascope)
2:1
1.85:1
Recording Modes:
Standard
HDR
ProRes RAW
Design:
Carbon fiber body for durability and lightness
Retractable landing gear for unobstructed 360-degree camera movement
Interchangeable lenses (24mm and 35mm)
Dual operator control capability
In addition to its impressive camera, the DJI Inspire 3 also boasts improved flight capabilities. According to DJI, the drone has a top speed of 80mph and can fly for up to 40 minutes on a single charge. It also has obstacle avoidance sensors on all sides, which help to prevent collisions and ensure safe flights.
Another new feature of the DJI Inspire 3 is its ability to switch between two different lenses: a 24mm and a 35mm. This allows videographers to capture footage with different perspectives and focal lengths, giving them more creative control over their shots.
Flying Modes:
Normal
Tripod
Sport
Cinematic
Night Vision:
Improved low light performance with larger sensor and enhanced image processing
Accessories:
CrystalSky monitor for enhanced video viewing
Focus handwheel for precise camera control
Follow focus system for focus tracking
The DJI Inspire 3 also comes with a new remote control, which features an integrated 7-inch screen for live video feeds. This means that video shooters can monitor their footage in real-time without the need for an external monitor or mobile device. Compared to the previous DJI Inspire 2 model, the Inspire 3 has a larger full-frame sensor and improved video resolution, allowing for higher-quality footage. The Inspire 3 also has improved obstacle avoidance sensors, longer flight time, and dual operator control capabilities.
In terms of price, the DJI Inspire 3 is definitely on the high-end of the spectrum, targeted at professional videographers and production companies, especially when comparing it to prices of previous models. It's important to note that additional accessories may also be required to fully utilize the drone's capabilities, which can further add to the overall cost.
Some Tech Specs:
Aircraft:
Max Flight Time: 40 minutes
Max Speed: 80 mph (129 kph)
Max Ascent Speed: 18 mph (29 kph)
Max Descent Speed: 13.1 mph (21 kph)
Max Service Ceiling Above Sea Level: 20,000 ft (6,000 m)
Operating Temperature: -4°F to 104°F (-20°C to 40°C)
Camera:
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS 35mm
Lens: Interchangeable 24mm or 35mm
ISO Range: 100-12,800
Shutter Speed: 1/8000 - 1/4
Video Formats: H.265, H.264, ProRes 422 HQ, ProRes 4444 XQ
Aspect Ratios: 16:9, 2.39:1, 2:1, 1.85:1
Recording Modes: Standard, HDR, ProRes RAW
Remote Controller:
Screen Size: 7.85 inches (diagonal)
Resolution: 2048 x 1536
Brightness: 1000 cd/m²
Battery Life: 4 hours
Obstacle Sensing:
Forward, backward, upward, downward, and lateral sensing
Obstacle Avoidance: Up to 30m (98 ft) at a speed of up to 17.9 mph (28.8 kph)
Weight:
Aircraft (with battery and propellers): 4.2 kg (9.3 lbs)
Remote Controller: 1.1 kg (2.5 lbs)
Price and Availability:
According to DJI, the Inspire 3 will be available by the end of June 2023 and is priced at $16,499 USD (around €14.990), which is a significant jump in price if you compare it to something like the DJI Mavic 3 Cine Premium Combo, priced at $4,999 USD (around €4.500).
You can read a lot more about the Inspire 3 by visiting DJI's website here.
