In recent years,
drone technology has advanced by leaps and bounds, giving rise to a plethora of
options for both amateur and professional aerial photographers. Among the
leading names in the drone industry, DJI stands out, and their Air 2S drone is
a testament to their commitment to innovation. In this comprehensive review, we
will explore the DJI Air 2S, its features, its capabilities, and why it has
become a favorite among drone enthusiasts.
Unboxing and Overview
When you first lay your hands on the DJI Air 2S drone, the excitement is palpable. In this chapter, we'll delve into what you can expect when you unbox this aerial marvel and explore the design and build quality that makes it stand out.
What's Inside the Box?
Upon unboxing the
DJI Air 2S, you'll find a carefully curated assortment of accessories and
components that enhance your flying experience. Here's a breakdown of what's
included:
Aircraft and
Remote Controller: The heart of the system, the drone itself, and the
remote controller, which acts as your command center for flight.
Intelligent
Flight Batteries: You'll discover not one but three intelligent flight
batteries. This generous provision ensures extended flight sessions, allowing
you to capture more of your world.
Charging
Accessories: Charging your batteries is a breeze with the included
battery charger and AC power cable. You'll never have to worry about running
out of power.
ND Filters
Set: A set of ND filters (ND4/8/16/32) enhances your control over exposure
and shutter speed, enabling you to achieve the perfect shot in various lighting
conditions.
Gimbal
Protector and Control Sticks: Protect your gimbal during transport
with the gimbal protector. Additionally, spare control sticks are included for
your remote controller, ensuring you always have a backup.
Shoulder Bag: DJI has thoughtfully provided a shoulder bag, making it convenient to carry your drone and its accessories wherever your adventures take you. It's designed to keep everything organized and secure.
Design and Build Quality
The design and
build quality of the DJI Air 2S are exemplary, embodying both form and
function. Here's a closer look at what makes this drone's design and build
stand out:
Compact and
Foldable Design: One of the first things you'll notice about the DJI
Air 2S is its compact and foldable design. This feature makes it incredibly
portable and easy to transport, allowing you to take it on your journeys
without hassle.
Sturdy
Construction: Despite its lightweight and portable design, the DJI Air
2S is built to last. Its robust construction ensures durability and longevity,
even in challenging conditions.
Ergonomic
Remote Controller: The included remote controller is not only
intuitive but also ergonomically designed for comfortable use during extended
flight sessions. Its user-friendly layout and responsive controls enhance your
flying experience.
The combination
of portability, durability, and user-friendliness in the design and build of
the DJI Air 2S sets the stage for an exceptional drone experience. Whether
you're a seasoned drone pilot or just starting your aerial adventures, you'll
appreciate the attention to detail in the design and the quality of
construction that DJI has put into this remarkable drone.
Imaging Capabilities
In the world of
drone photography and videography, image quality is paramount. In this chapter,
we'll explore the DJI Air 2S's impressive imaging capabilities, which are
powered by a 1-inch image sensor and a host of features that set it apart from
the competition.
The 1-Inch Image Sensor
Importance of Sensor Size
At the heart of
the DJI Air 2S's imaging capabilities is its 1-inch image sensor. Sensor size
is a critical factor in determining the quality of your aerial images, and here's
why it matters:
Stunning 5.4K
Video and 4K at 60fps: The 1-inch sensor allows the DJI Air 2S to
capture video in remarkable detail. It can record stunning 5.4K video at 30fps
and 4K video at 60fps. This level of resolution ensures that your footage is incredibly
sharp and lifelike, whether you're shooting landscapes, action sequences, or
cinematic scenes.
Impressive
Low-Light Performance: A larger sensor size means larger individual
pixels, which can capture more light. This results in impressive low-light
performance, allowing you to shoot clear and vibrant images even as the light
diminishes. Whether it's a sunset over a cityscape or a campfire in the
wilderness, the DJI Air 2S excels in capturing those magical low-light moments.
Color Profile and Image Quality
10-bit Dlog-M Color Profile
To truly elevate
your aerial photography and videography, the DJI Air 2S offers a 10-bit Dlog-M
color profile. This feature opens up a world of possibilities for image
quality:
Billion Colors
and Incredible Detail: The 10-bit Dlog-M color profile can record up
to one billion colors. This immense color depth ensures that your footage
retains all the little details and nuances that make it pop. Whether you're
capturing the subtle shades of a sunset or the vibrant colors of a bustling
market, your images will come to life like never before.
Vivid and
Accurate Color Reproduction: The DJI Air 2S is renowned for its color
accuracy. It reproduces colors with remarkable fidelity, ensuring that the hues
you capture are faithful to the scene. This level of color precision is
especially crucial for professional photographers and filmmakers who rely on
accurate color grading in post-production.
Flight Performance
The DJI Air 2S is
not just about capturing stunning imagery; it's also designed to be a reliable
and high-performing aerial platform. In this chapter, we'll explore the flight
performance of the DJI Air 2S, including its impressive flight time, range, and
advanced transmission technology.
Flight Time and Battery Performance
Extended 31-Minute Flight Time
One of the
standout features of the DJI Air 2S is its extended flight time. Here's why it
matters:
Extended
31-Minute Flight Time: With the DJI Air 2S, you can stay in the air
for up to 31 minutes on a single charge. This extended flight time is a
game-changer for aerial photographers and videographers. It allows you to
capture more footage and images during each flight session, reducing the need
to land and change batteries frequently.
Three Intelligent Flight Batteries
To ensure you can
make the most of your aerial adventures, DJI includes three intelligent flight
batteries with the Air 2S:
Three
Intelligent Flight Batteries: The provision of three batteries means
you can potentially enjoy nearly an hour of total flight time when they are
cycled through. This added flexibility lets you plan longer flights or shoot in
remote locations without worrying about running out of power.
Battery Charging Hub and Adapter
Managing multiple
batteries is made easy with the DJI Air 2S:
Battery
Charging Hub: The included battery charging hub simplifies the
charging process. You can charge all three batteries simultaneously, ensuring
that you're always ready for your next flight.
Battery to
Power Bank Adapter: DJI also includes a battery to power bank adapter,
which allows you to use one of your flight batteries to charge other devices
like smartphones or tablets. This versatility can be a lifesaver when you're in
the field and need to keep your devices powered.
Range and Transmission
a. OcuSync 3.0 Technology
The DJI Air 2S
boasts advanced transmission technology, offering a range of benefits for
pilots:
1. OcuSync 3.0
Technology: DJI's OcuSync 3.0 technology is at the core of the Air
2S's impressive range and transmission capabilities. It ensures a stable and
reliable connection between the drone and the remote controller, minimizing
signal dropouts and interference.
b. 12-Kilometer Video Transmission
The DJI Air 2S
provides pilots with an impressive range of video transmission:
12-Kilometer
Video Transmission: With the Air 2S, you can transmit live video from
the drone to the remote controller at distances of up to 12 kilometers
(approximately 7.5 miles). This extended range not only allows for greater
exploration but also ensures that you maintain a clear and uninterrupted view
of the action from a distance.
c. Clear and Reliable Feeds
No matter how far
you venture, the DJI Air 2S ensures clear and reliable video feeds:
Clear and Reliable
Feeds: OcuSync 3.0 technology provides ultra-smooth and clear video
feeds. This is particularly important for photographers and filmmakers who need
a precise view of their subjects. The reliability of the feeds enhances the
overall flight experience and helps you capture the perfect shot every time.
Intelligent Flight Modes
One of the DJI
Air 2S's standout features is its intelligent flight modes, which make
capturing stunning shots easier than ever before. In this chapter, we'll
explore these modes in detail, from the evolution of QuickShots to the advanced
tracking capabilities of FocusTrack.
Mastershots
a. Master shots: The Evolution of QuickShots
QuickShots have
long been a favorite among drone enthusiasts for their ability to capture
impressive aerial shots with minimal effort. The DJI Air 2S takes this concept
to the next level with Master shots:
i. The Evolution
of QuickShots: Mastershots is an advanced evolution of QuickShots.
It's an intelligent feature that uses automated flight patterns and camera
movements to capture stunning shots in any location with just a tap. Whether
you want to create cinematic circles around a subject or capture breathtaking
flyovers, Mastershots has you covered.
ii. Intelligent
Automation for Stunning Shots: With Mastershots, the drone takes care
of the flight path and camera movements, allowing you to focus on creativity.
It intelligently selects the best shots and transitions seamlessly between
them, resulting in professional-grade footage without the need for manual
piloting.
iii. User-Friendly
Tap Controls: Mastershots is incredibly user-friendly. You can simply
tap on the shot you want to capture, and the DJI Air 2S takes care of the rest.
This ease of use makes it accessible to drone pilots of all skill levels, from
beginners to experienced flyers.
FocusTrack Features
a. Spotlight 2.0, ActiveTrack 4.0, Point of Interest 3.0, and Seamless Subject Tracking
The DJI Air 2S
comes equipped with a suite of FocusTrack features that take precision and
control to new heights:
i. Spotlight 2.0: Spotlight
2.0 allows you to lock onto a subject and keep it in the frame while you have
full control over the drone's movements. This mode is perfect for tracking
moving subjects, such as a person or a vehicle, while maintaining creative
control.
ii. ActiveTrack
4.0: ActiveTrack has been a hallmark of DJI's intelligent flight modes,
and the Air 2S takes it further with version 4.0. It offers improved subject
recognition and tracking, making it even more reliable in complex scenarios.
iii. Point of
Interest 3.0: Point of Interest lets you choose a point or object in
your environment, and the drone will automatically circle it, capturing
captivating 360-degree shots. With version 3.0, you have greater control and
customization options.
iv. Seamless Subject Tracking: Whether you're tracking a subject from the front, side, or even from behind, the DJI Air 2S's tracking capabilities are seamless. It ensures that your subject remains the center of attention in your shots.
Obstacle Sensing and Safety
Safety is
paramount when operating a drone, and the DJI Air 2S prioritizes it with its
advanced obstacle-sensing and avoidance capabilities. In this chapter, we'll
explore how the drone's 4-directional environment sensing, and the Advanced
Pilot Assistance System (APAS) 4.0 enhance safety during your flights.
4-Directional Environment Sensing
a. Upward, Downward, Forward, and Backward Sensors
The DJI Air 2S is
equipped with a comprehensive set of sensors that provide 4-directional
environment sensing:
i. Upward
Sensors: These sensors scan the airspace above the drone, ensuring it
can detect and avoid obstacles that might be overhead, such as tree branches or
ceiling structures, when flying indoors.
ii. Downward
Sensors: Located on the drone's underside, the downward sensors play a
crucial role in maintaining stability during flight and ensuring safe landings.
They also help the drone avoid obstacles on the ground.
iii. Forward
Sensors: The forward-facing sensors are vital for obstacle detection
when the drone is flying forward. They scan the path ahead to identify
obstacles and enable the drone to take evasive action to avoid collisions.
iv. Backward
Sensors: The backward sensors serve a similar purpose to the forward
sensors but in the opposite direction. They provide protection when the drone
is flying in reverse, ensuring safety during maneuvers like backing up.
b. Active Obstacle Avoidance
The DJI Air 2S
goes beyond obstacle detection—it actively avoids obstacles:
Active
Obstacle Avoidance: When the drone detects an obstacle in its path, it
will automatically adjust its flight path to avoid a collision. This proactive
approach to safety minimizes the risk of accidents and allows you to focus on
capturing your shots without worry.
c. Enhanced Safety in Complex Scenarios
The combination
of sensors in all directions, along with active obstacle avoidance, enhances
safety in a variety of scenarios:
Enhanced
Safety in Complex Scenarios: Whether you're flying in a densely wooded
area, navigating through a cluttered urban environment, or capturing footage in
a confined space, the DJI Air 2S's 4-directional environment sensing ensures
that you can confidently navigate even the most challenging settings.
Advanced Pilot Assistance System (APAS) 4.0
a. Intelligent Collision Avoidance
The DJI Air 2S
takes collision avoidance to the next level with APAS 4.0:
Intelligent
Collision Avoidance: APAS 4.0 uses advanced algorithms and real-time
data from the drone's sensors to make intelligent decisions about its flight
path. It can seamlessly navigate around obstacles, even in complex scenarios
where traditional obstacle avoidance might struggle.
b. Smooth Navigation During Filming
APAS 4.0 is
designed with filmmakers in mind:
Smooth
Navigation During Filming: When you're in the midst of capturing a
cinematic shot, the last thing you want is a sudden change in direction due to
an obstacle. APAS 4.0 ensures that your flight path remains smooth and steady,
allowing you to focus on getting the perfect shot.
Portability and Ease of Use
The DJI Air 2S is
not only a powerhouse of technology but also designed for portability and ease
of use. In this chapter, we'll explore the drone's compact and foldable design,
as well as its compatibility with the DJI Fly app, making it a user-friendly
choice for drone enthusiasts.
Compact and Foldable Design
a. Easy to Carry Anywhere
The DJI Air 2S's
compact and foldable design is a game-changer for drone enthusiasts:
i. Easy to Carry
Anywhere: The drone's foldable arms make it incredibly portable.
Whether you're embarking on a hike, traveling abroad, or simply heading to your
favorite scenic spot, the Air 2S is easy to carry in a backpack or the included
shoulder bag.
ii. Quick Setup
and Deployment: Unfolding the drone and getting it ready for flight is
a straightforward process. You can have the Air 2S in the air within minutes,
ensuring that you don't miss any spontaneous moments worth capturing.
iii. Ideal for
On-the-Go Creatives: If you're an on-the-go creative who thrives on
capturing spontaneous inspiration, the Air 2S's portability and quick setup
make it an ideal companion. You'll be ready to capture stunning aerial shots at
a moment's notice.
DJI Fly App Compatibility
a. Intuitive and Feature-Rich App
The DJI Fly app
is your command center for controlling the Air 2S and unlocking its full
potential:
i. Intuitive and
Feature-Rich App: The DJI Fly app is designed to be user-friendly,
with an intuitive interface that allows you to access a wide range of features
and settings. Whether you're a novice or an experienced pilot, you'll find it
easy to navigate.
ii. Compatible
Devices: The DJI Fly app is compatible with a range of devices,
including smartphones and tablets. You can use it on devices such as the iPhone,
iPad, Samsung Galaxy series, and many more, ensuring that you can control the
Air 2S with the device you're most comfortable with.
iii. Activation
Process: The app guides you through the activation process for the Air
2S, ensuring that you're ready to take off safely and legally. Activating the
drone is a straightforward procedure that ensures compliance with regulations.
Real-World Applications
The DJI Air 2S is
more than just a drone; it's a versatile tool with a wide range of real-world
applications. In this chapter, we'll explore some of the key uses of the Air
2S, from aerial photography and cinematography to surveying and mapping.
Aerial Photography and Cinematography
a. Capturing Breathtaking Landscapes
The DJI Air 2S
excels in capturing stunning aerial imagery:
Capturing
Breathtaking Landscapes: Whether you're an amateur photographer
looking to capture breathtaking landscapes or a professional filmmaker working
on a cinematic project, the Air 2S delivers. Its 1-inch sensor, 5.4K video
capabilities, and intelligent flight modes enable you to capture images and
footage that were once only possible with expensive equipment and extensive
crew.
b. Creative Filmmaking Possibilities
The Air 2S
unlocks a world of creative possibilities for filmmakers:
Creative
Filmmaking Possibilities: With features like Mastershots and
FocusTrack, the Air 2S empowers filmmakers to create captivating sequences and
shots with ease. From dynamic aerial tracking shots to intricate circling
maneuvers, the drone provides a level of flexibility and precision that can
elevate any film project.
c. Professional-Grade Aerial Imaging
For
professionals, the Air 2S offers professional-grade aerial imaging:
Professional-Grade
Aerial Imaging: The Air 2S's 10-bit Dlog-M color profile and
billion-color recording ensure that professional videographers have the color
depth and accuracy they need for post-production work. This level of quality is
a game-changer for professionals in the film and media industry.
Surveying and Mapping
a. Drone Technology in Surveying
Drones have
revolutionized surveying and mapping:
Drone
Technology in Surveying: The Air 2S's capabilities extend beyond
creative pursuits. It's a valuable tool for land surveyors, architects, and
urban planners. The drone's high-resolution imagery and mapping abilities allow
professionals to conduct surveys and create detailed maps more efficiently and
accurately than traditional methods.
b. Mapping and 3D Modeling Capabilities
The Air 2S excels
in creating detailed maps and 3D models:
Mapping and 3D
Modeling Capabilities: The drone's ability to capture high-resolution
images and data enables professionals to create detailed maps and 3D models of
areas of interest. This is invaluable in industries such as construction,
agriculture, and environmental monitoring, where accurate spatial data is
essential.
c. Efficiency in Various Industries
The Air 2S boosts
efficiency in various industries:
Efficiency in
Various Industries: From agriculture and forestry to infrastructure
inspection and search and rescue operations, the Air 2S's versatility and
imaging capabilities improve efficiency and safety in a wide range of
professional applications.
Pros and Cons
In this chapter,
we'll provide an overview of the pros and cons of the DJI Air 2S, helping you
make an informed decision about whether this drone is the right choice for your
needs.
Pros of the DJI Air 2S
✅Outstanding
Imaging Quality
✅Long Flight
Time
✅Intelligent
Flight Modes
✅Advanced
Safety Features
Cons of the DJI Air 2S
❌Learning Curve for Beginners
Compare with similar drones
1. DJI Mavic Air 2
Features
Camera: 48MP photos with a 1/2-inch CMOS sensor, 4K/60fps video.Flight Time: Up to 34 minutes.
Obstacle Sensing: Three-direction obstacle sensing.
Intelligent Tracking: ActiveTrack 3.0, Spotlight 2.0, POI 3.0.
Transmission Distance: Up to 6.2mi / 10 km with OcuSync 2.0.
App Compatibility: DJI Fly app compatible with iOS and Android devices.
Connectivity: OcuSync 2.0 for video transmission.
DJI Mini 3 Pro
Features
Weight: Less than 249 g, doesn't require registration in most countries.Camera: 4K/60fps video, 48MP photos, tri-directional obstacle sensing, APAS 4.0.
Flight Time: Up to 34 minutes (upgradable to 47 minutes with Intelligent Flight Battery Plus).
Intelligent Features: FocusTrack, True Vertical Shooting, MasterShots, Timelapse, QuickTransfer, and more.
Controller: Includes DJI RC-N1 for immersive flights.
Ruko U11PRO
Features
Compliance: FAA Remote ID compliant.Camera: 4K videos and photos.
Flight Time: Up to 52 minutes (with 2 extra batteries).
Remote Controller: Upgraded controller with GPS auto return.
Connectivity: App-controlled, GPS, Wi-Fi.
Design: Compact and elegant design, black lens.
Warranty: 30 days money-back guarantee, 12+12 months warranty.
Comparison Summary
Price: DJI Mavic Air 2 is the
highest-priced, followed by DJI Mini 3 Pro, and then Ruko U11PRO as the most
affordable.
Camera: Mavic Air 2 and Mini 3
Pro both offer 4K video and high-resolution photos, while U11PRO also provides
4K capabilities.
Flight Time: U11PRO boasts the
longest flight time at 52 minutes, followed by Mavic Air 2 (34 minutes) and
Mini 3 Pro (34 minutes, upgradable to 47 minutes).
Obstacle Sensing: Mavic Air 2
has three-direction obstacle sensing, while Mini 3 Pro has tri-directional
obstacle sensing.
Intelligent Features: Both
Mavic Air 2 and Mini 3 Pro come with advanced intelligent tracking features.
Connectivity: Mavic Air 2 uses
OcuSync 2.0 for video transmission, Mini 3 Pro includes immersive features with
DJI Googles 2, Goggles Integra, and RC Motion 2, and U11PRO is app-controlled
with GPS functionality.
Compliance: U11PRO is FAA
Remote ID compliant.
Customer Reviews from the United States
Mark Lohde:
Title: The BEST drone for the value
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars
Date: January 30, 2022
Comment:
✓Mark praises the DJI Air 2S
for its compact size, especially compared to his previous Inspire 2 with X5s.
✓He appreciates the 5.4K video
quality and workability of D-Log and 10-Bit H.265 files.
✓Mentions the drone's dynamic
range, color grading capabilities, and shadow recovery in post-production.
✓Highlights the convenience of
the small size, long battery life, and the quality of the included accessories
like ND filters.
✓Notes the drone's impressive
range and compares it favorably to more expensive drones he has used in the
past.
✓Compares the Air 2S to various
other drones he has flown, emphasizing its strengths for travel vlogging,
weddings, real estate, and landscapes.
✓Expresses excitement about the
technology and looks forward to future developments, such as interchangeable
lenses in the Mavic line.
Daria:
Title: True Seller, no defects in product or supplies
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars
Date: September 8, 2023
Comment:
✓Daria provides a positive
review after using the DJI Air 2S Fly More Combo for two months.
✓Commends the device's flawless
performance with no defects or delays during flights.
✓Recommends considering a total
of four batteries for an extended flight experience.
✓Describes the drone as light,
easy to use, and suitable for new pilots, especially appreciating its
autonomous features like returning to the home point.
✓Highlights the low noise level
and speed of the drone, expressing overall satisfaction with the purchase.
Mikel Berry:
Title: DJI is the best prosumer drone. Period.
Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars
Date: July 4, 2021
Comment:
✓Mikel declares DJI as the best
prosumer drone and completes his DJI family with the purchase of the Air 2S Fly
More Combo.
✓Notes the improvements in
obstacle avoidance systems, autonomous flight programs, and enhanced image
quality as factors influencing the decision to buy.
✓Expresses the convenience of
opting for the Fly More Combo to get all necessary accessories at once.
✓Describes the Air 2S as on par
with other DJI aircraft in terms of performance and reliability.
✓Highlights the ease of flying,
smooth smartphone interface, straightforward controls, and the mid-range
pricing of the drone.
People Also Ask
What is the maximum video resolution of the DJI Air 2S drone?
The DJI Air 2S is
capable of recording video at a maximum resolution of 5.4K at 30 frames per
second (fps), providing stunningly detailed and high-quality footage.
How long does the DJI Air 2S drone's battery last on a single charge?
The DJI
Air 2S offers an extended flight time of up to 31 minutes on a single charge,
allowing for longer and more productive aerial sessions.
Does the DJI Air 2S come with obstacle avoidance technology?
Yes, the DJI Air 2S
is equipped with 4-directional obstacle sensing, allowing it to actively detect
and avoid obstacles in four directions: upward, downward, forward, and
backward, enhancing safety during flights.
What are the intelligent flight modes available on the DJI Air 2S?
The DJI Air
2S offers a range of intelligent flight modes, including Mastershots for
automated creative shots and FocusTrack features like Spotlight 2.0,
ActiveTrack 4.0, and Point of Interest 3.0 for subject tracking and circling.
Is the DJI Air 2S suitable for beginners or experienced drone pilots?
The DJI Air 2S is designed to cater to both beginners and experienced drone pilots. Its user-friendly features, such as intelligent flight modes and intuitive controls, make it accessible for beginners, while its advanced capabilities and high-quality imaging are appreciated by experienced users. However, beginners should be prepared to spend some time learning the basics of drone operation.
Bottom Line
In a world where
capturing stunning aerial footage and photos has become more accessible thanever, the DJI Air 2S rises to the occasion as a versatile and powerful tool.
With its 1-inch sensor, advanced imaging capabilities, intelligent flight
modes, and robust safety features, it's no wonder that the DJI Air 2S is the
preferred choice of many enthusiasts and professionals.
Whether you're a
landscape photographer, a filmmaker, or a surveyor, this drone opens up a world
of creative possibilities. While it comes with a premium price tag, the
investment is well worth it for those who demand the best in aerial imaging
technology.
The DJI Air 2S is a masterpiece of aerial imaging, combining cutting-edge technology with user-friendly features to deliver an exceptional drone experience. If you're looking to take your aerial photography and videography to the next level, this drone should be at the top of your list.
See also
DJI AVATA: REVOLUTIONIZING FPV DRONES WITH PRO-VIEW COMBO AND FLY MORE KIT | |
DJI MINI 2 FLY DRONE CAMERA FOR BOTH BEGINNERS AND PROFESSIONALS | |
