Dji Air 2S Review

The DJI Air 2S is a remarkably capable drone, striking an impressive balance between portability, advanced imaging features, and intelligent flight modes, making it an excellent choice for serious hobbyists and professional content creators alike.

It represents a significant upgrade from its predecessor, the Mavic Air 2, primarily due to its larger 1-inch CMOS sensor, which enables superior low-light performance and 5.4K video recording.

While it doesn’t quite reach the professional-grade heights of the Mavic 3 series, its compact design and comprehensive feature set offer exceptional value, cementing its position as one of the best prosumer drones on the market.

For those looking to capture breathtaking aerial footage without the bulk of a larger system, the Air 2S delivers stunning results.

Here’s a comparison of top products relevant to aerial imaging and drone technology:

• DJI Air 2S Fly More Combo

  

  • Key Features: 1-inch CMOS sensor, 5.4K video, 12km O3 video transmission, MasterShots, APAS 4.0 obstacle avoidance, ~31-minute max flight time.
  • Average Price: $1,299 USD
  • Pros: Excellent image quality, compact and foldable, reliable transmission, comprehensive intelligent features, good battery life with Fly More Combo.
  • Cons: No adjustable aperture fixed f/2.8, can be pricey for beginners, limited low-light performance compared to larger sensors, less stable in very high winds than professional models.

• DJI Mini 4 Pro

  • Key Features: Under 249g no registration needed in many regions, omnidirectional obstacle sensing, 4K/60fps HDR video, Waypoint Flight, ActiveTrack 366°, O4 video transmission, ~34-minute max flight time standard battery.
  • Average Price: $959 USD
  • Pros: Extremely portable, no registration required in many places, advanced safety features for its size, excellent video quality for a mini drone, long transmission range.
  • Cons: Smaller sensor 1/1.3-inch limits low-light capability compared to Air 2S, less wind resistance than larger drones, limited payload capacity.

• DJI Mavic 3 Classic

  • Key Features: Hasselblad 4/3 CMOS camera, 5.1K/50fps video, Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing, 15km HD Video Transmission, ~46-minute max flight time, advanced RTH.
  • Average Price: $1,599 USD
  • Pros: Professional-grade image quality, exceptional low-light performance, very long flight time, robust safety features, superior wind resistance.
  • Cons: Heavier and less portable than Air 2S, higher price point, lacks the telephoto lens of the original Mavic 3, larger footprint for travel.

• Autel Robotics EVO Lite+

  • Key Features: 1-inch CMOS sensor, 6K/30fps video, adjustable aperture f/2.8-f/11, three-way obstacle avoidance, ~40-minute max flight time.
  • Average Price: $1,349 USD
  • Pros: Excellent low-light performance with adjustable aperture, longer flight time than Air 2S, good alternative to DJI, robust build quality.
  • Cons: Software/app experience can be less refined than DJI, smaller user base/community, less advanced obstacle avoidance than some DJI models.

• GoPro HERO12 Black

  • Key Features: 5.3K60, 4K120, 2.7K240 video, HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, long-lasting Enduro battery, waterproof to 33ft, TimeCode Sync.
  • Average Price: $399 USD
  • Pros: Unmatched action camera versatility, superb stabilization, rugged design, excellent for FPV drones with mounts, great for ground-based action.
  • Cons: Not a drone requires drone mounting, no native aerial intelligence, limited battery life compared to dedicated drones.

• SanDisk Extreme PRO SDXC UHS-I Card

  • Key Features: Up to 200MB/s read, 140MB/s write speeds, V30 video speed class, A2 app performance, suitable for 4K UHD video.
  • Average Price: $20-$50 depending on capacity
  • Pros: Essential for high-bitrate drone video, reliable and durable, fast transfer speeds, widely compatible.
  • Cons: Not a drone, must ensure correct speed class for drone’s video requirements.

• PGYTECH OneMo Lite Backpack 25L

  • Key Features: Dedicated drone compartment, configurable dividers, laptop sleeve, water-resistant material, ergonomic design.
  • Average Price: $129 USD
  • Pros: Protects drone and accessories, comfortable for travel, organized storage, versatile for other gear.
  • Cons: Not a drone, adds to the overall gear bulk, may not fit all drone sizes check dimensions.

Unpacking the DJI Air 2S: A Deep Dive into its Capabilities

The DJI Air 2S burst onto the scene as a compelling upgrade from the Mavic Air 2, carving out a unique niche between the consumer-friendly Mini series and the professional-grade Mavic 3 lineup. It’s not just an iterative improvement.

It’s a significant leap in imaging prowess and intelligent features, making it a serious contender for anyone looking to capture breathtaking aerial content without breaking the bank or dealing with the bulk of larger drones.

Let’s really dig into what makes this drone tick and why it might be the right fit for your aerial adventures.

Imaging Powerhouse: The 1-Inch Sensor Revolution

When DJI upgraded the Air 2S with a 1-inch CMOS sensor, it wasn’t just a number change. it was a must for a drone of its size.

This larger sensor allows for significantly better light gathering, which translates directly into superior image quality, especially in challenging lighting conditions.

We’re talking about cleaner images, more dynamic range, and video that truly pops.

• Sensor Size Matters: The move from a 1/2-inch to a 1-inch sensor essentially quadruples the light-sensitive area. This isn’t just about megapixels. it’s about the quality of each pixel. Larger pixels can capture more light, reducing noise and improving clarity, particularly in lower light.
• 5.4K Video Capabilities: The Air 2S can record stunning 5.4K video at 30 frames per second fps or 4K video at up to 60fps. This provides immense flexibility for post-production, allowing for reframing, zooming, and stabilization without sacrificing overall quality when downscaled to 4K or 1080p.
  • High Bitrate: With a video bitrate of 150 Mbps, the Air 2S captures a significant amount of detail, which is crucial for professional-looking footage.
  • Color Profiles: It supports D-Log M 10-bit color, which is a flat color profile designed for color grading. This gives videographers tremendous control over the final look of their footage, making it easier to match with other cameras or achieve a cinematic aesthetic.
• 20MP Stills: For still photography, the 20-megapixel sensor delivers sharp, detailed images, whether you’re shooting in JPEG or raw DNG format. The ability to shoot raw files is a huge plus for photographers who want maximum flexibility for editing in software like Adobe Lightroom.
  • SmartPhoto Mode: This intelligent feature integrates scene recognition, HyperLight for low light, and HDR into one automated mode, simplifying the process of getting great shots.

Intelligent Flight Modes: Your Personal Film Crew

DJI has always been at the forefront of intelligent flight technology, and the Air 2S is no exception. These modes aren’t just gimmicks.

They are powerful tools that enable even novice pilots to capture complex, cinematic shots with minimal effort.

Think of them as having a skilled camera operator on board, guiding the drone to get the perfect angle.

• MasterShots: This is a groundbreaking feature that automates an entire sequence of flight paths and video recordings. You select your subject, and the drone executes ten different maneuvers, keeping the subject in frame, then automatically generates a short cinematic video with podcast and effects. It’s incredibly easy to use and delivers surprisingly professional results, making it perfect for quick social media content.
  • Automated Editing: After recording, the DJI Fly app automatically edits the footage, adding podcast, filters, and transitions, saving you hours of post-production time.
• FocusTrack: An enhanced suite of tracking modes, FocusTrack includes ActiveTrack 4.0, Spotlight 2.0, and Point of Interest POI 3.0.
  • ActiveTrack 4.0: This feature allows the drone to autonomously follow a moving subject, whether it’s a person, car, or boat. It uses advanced algorithms to predict motion and avoid obstacles, maintaining a stable and smooth track.
  • Spotlight 2.0: In this mode, the drone keeps the subject locked in the frame while you control the drone’s flight path. This is incredibly useful for dynamic shots where you want to circle your subject or fly alongside it while keeping the camera centered.
  • POI 3.0: The drone circles a designated point or object at a specified radius and speed, creating smooth orbiting shots that are otherwise very difficult to execute manually.
• QuickShots: Familiar to DJI users, QuickShots offer automated cinematic maneuvers with a single tap. Modes like Dronie, Rocket, Circle, Helix, Boomerang, and Asteroid provide creative options for capturing unique perspectives.
  • Asteroid: A particularly popular QuickShot, Asteroid starts with a wide-angle sphere panorama and then quickly zooms in on your subject, creating a dramatic “tiny planet” effect.
• Hyperlapse: The Air 2S supports various Hyperlapse modes Free, Circle, Course Lock, Waypoint, allowing you to compress long periods of time into short, sped-up videos. This is fantastic for capturing sunrises, sunsets, cloud movements, or busy cityscapes.

Safety First: Enhanced Obstacle Avoidance and Transmission

Safety is paramount when flying drones, and DJI has continually refined its obstacle avoidance systems. Autel Robotics Evo Ii Pro Review

The Air 2S incorporates advanced features to help pilots avoid collisions and ensure a smooth, secure flight experience.

• APAS 4.0 Advanced Pilot Assistance System: The Air 2S features four-directional obstacle sensing forward, backward, upward, and downward. While it lacks the full omnidirectional sensing of the Mavic 3, APAS 4.0 is a significant improvement, providing more robust collision avoidance capabilities.
  • Bypassing and Braking: When an obstacle is detected, APAS 4.0 can either bypass the obstacle or brake and hover, giving the pilot more control and confidence, especially in complex environments.
  • High-Speed Scenarios: The system is optimized to work even at higher speeds, making it more effective in dynamic flight situations.
• O3 Transmission System: The O3 OcuSync 3.0 video transmission system provides an incredibly stable and reliable feed from the drone to the remote controller. This is crucial for maintaining control and seeing precisely what your drone’s camera sees, even at long distances.
  • Range: The Air 2S boasts a theoretical transmission range of up to 12 km 7.5 miles FCC compliant, though local regulations often limit practical operating distances. The key benefit is the stability of the connection, even in areas with interference.
  • Low Latency: The system delivers low-latency video, meaning there’s minimal delay between what the drone sees and what you see on your controller screen. This is vital for precise piloting and framing shots.
  • Dual-Frequency Support: O3 automatically switches between 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz frequencies to find the clearest channel, minimizing interference and ensuring a robust connection.
• AirSense: This safety feature detects nearby traditional aircraft airplanes and helicopters equipped with ADS-B transmitters and alerts the drone pilot to their presence and location. This is an invaluable tool for enhancing airspace awareness and preventing potential mid-air collisions.
• Return to Home RTH: DJI’s RTH system is highly reliable, bringing the drone back to its takeoff point automatically in case of signal loss, low battery, or a manually triggered command. The Air 2S uses improved RTH logic to choose the safest and most efficient path back.

Portability and Design: Optimized for the Adventurous Creator

One of the standout features of the Air 2S is its balance of powerful features with a highly portable design.

It’s not a “mini” drone, but it’s far from bulky, making it an ideal companion for travel and adventures.

• Foldable Design: Like most modern DJI drones, the Air 2S features a foldable arm design, allowing it to compress into a compact form factor that’s easy to pack into a backpack or camera bag.
  • Dimensions Folded: Approximately 180×97×77 mm, which is quite small considering its capabilities.
• Weight: Weighing in at 595 grams 1.31 lbs, the Air 2S is heavier than the sub-250g Mini series, meaning it may require registration in some regions like the U.S. for recreational use. However, this weight contributes to its stability in wind and its ability to carry a larger camera sensor.
• Build Quality: The drone feels solid and well-constructed, capable of withstanding the rigors of regular outdoor use. The gimbal protector is well-designed, offering good protection for the camera during transport.
• Remote Controller: The standard DJI RC-N1 remote controller is included, featuring a comfortable design and a sturdy spring-loaded clamp for holding most smartphones. The integrated antennas and tactile controls provide a familiar and intuitive piloting experience.

Battery Life and Charging: Powering Your Flights

While drone battery life is always a balancing act between power, weight, and flight time, the Air 2S offers respectable performance, especially with the Fly More Combo.

• Max Flight Time: DJI states a maximum flight time of 31 minutes. In real-world conditions, factoring in wind, ascent/descent, and active recording, you can typically expect around 20-25 minutes of practical flight time before needing to land or swap batteries.
• Intelligent Flight Battery: The Air 2S uses DJI’s intelligent flight batteries, which have built-in management systems to prevent overcharging and over-discharging. They also report their status to the DJI Fly app, providing real-time battery health and remaining flight time estimates.
• Fly More Combo: For serious users, the Fly More Combo is almost always the recommended purchase. It typically includes:
  • Three Batteries: Essential for extended shooting sessions.
  • Charging Hub: Allows you to charge multiple batteries in sequence, greatly reducing downtime.
  • ND Filter Set: Neutral Density ND filters are crucial for videographers to control exposure in bright conditions, allowing for more cinematic shutter speeds. This is a significant value addition.
  • Shoulder Bag: A convenient way to transport your drone and accessories.
• Charging Time: A single battery usually takes around 1.5 hours to fully charge. With the charging hub, you can efficiently prepare all your batteries for your next flight.

Software Experience: DJI Fly App and Ecosystem

The user experience with DJI drones is heavily influenced by the DJI Fly app and the broader DJI ecosystem.

This is where DJI truly shines, offering a polished, intuitive, and feature-rich environment.

• DJI Fly App: The app is clean, easy to navigate, and provides a clear live view from the drone’s camera. All flight settings, camera controls, and intelligent flight modes are readily accessible.
  • User-Friendly Interface: Even beginners will find the app intuitive, with clear instructions and visual aids.
  • Editing and Sharing: The app includes basic editing tools, allowing you to trim clips, add podcast, and apply filters directly on your mobile device. This is particularly useful for quickly sharing content to social media.
  • Firmware Updates: The app handles firmware updates for both the drone and the controller seamlessly.
• DJI Care Refresh: This optional service offers comprehensive protection for your drone, including coverage for accidental damage, flyaways, and water damage. It’s essentially an insurance plan that provides replacement units for a small fee, offering significant peace of mind.
• Community and Support: DJI has a vast global user base and a robust online community, offering abundant resources, tutorials, and troubleshooting tips. Their customer support is generally responsive.

Considerations and Who it’s For

While the DJI Air 2S is an exceptional drone, it’s not without its nuances, and it’s important to consider who it’s best suited for.

• No Adjustable Aperture: One of the few limitations of the 1-inch sensor in the Air 2S is its fixed f/2.8 aperture. This means you rely solely on shutter speed and ISO for exposure control. This is where the included ND filters in the Fly More Combo become absolutely essential, especially for videographers aiming for cinematic motion blur by maintaining a 1/50th or 1/60th shutter speed in 24/30fps.
• Less Stable in High Winds than Larger Drones: While the Air 2S handles moderate winds admirably, larger, heavier drones like the Mavic 3 series will naturally be more stable in very gusty conditions. For critical commercial work in challenging weather, a heavier platform might be preferred.
• Registration Required in Many Regions: Due to its weight 595g, the Air 2S typically requires registration with aviation authorities in countries like the United States FAA. This is a simple process but something to be aware of if you’re upgrading from a sub-250g drone like the DJI Mini series.
• Target Audience:
  • Serious Hobbyists: Those who want to elevate their aerial photography and videography beyond basic consumer drones.
  • Content Creators: YouTubers, vloggers, and social media influencers who need high-quality, versatile aerial footage for their projects.
  • Travelers: Its balance of portability and powerful imaging makes it an excellent companion for capturing travel adventures.
  • Aspiring Professionals: It’s a fantastic stepping stone for those looking to get into commercial drone work without the significant investment of higher-end professional platforms.

In essence, the DJI Air 2S is a sweet spot in the drone market.

It brings professional-level imaging with its 1-inch sensor, advanced safety features, and a suite of incredibly useful intelligent flight modes, all wrapped in a highly portable package.

It allows users to capture stunning visuals with relative ease, making cinematic aerials accessible to a broader audience. House Of Marley Get Together Duo Review

If you’re looking for a drone that delivers exceptional performance without the bulk or price tag of top-tier professional models, the Air 2S stands out as a top recommendation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the DJI Air 2S still worth buying in 2024?

Yes, the DJI Air 2S is absolutely still worth buying in 2024, especially for serious hobbyists and prosumers.

Its 1-inch sensor, 5.4K video capability, and robust feature set still offer excellent value and high-quality results, placing it well above many newer, smaller drones in terms of imaging performance.

What is the main advantage of the DJI Air 2S over the DJI Mini 3/4 Pro?

The main advantage of the DJI Air 2S is its larger 1-inch CMOS camera sensor, which provides significantly better low-light performance, higher dynamic range, and overall superior image quality compared to the 1/1.3-inch sensor found in the Mini 3/4 Pro.

Does the DJI Air 2S have omnidirectional obstacle avoidance?

No, the DJI Air 2S does not have omnidirectional 360-degree obstacle avoidance. It features four-directional obstacle sensing forward, backward, upward, and downward with APAS 4.0. Omnidirectional sensing is typically found on higher-end drones like the DJI Mavic 3 series.

What is the maximum video resolution and frame rate of the Air 2S?

The DJI Air 2S can record video at a maximum resolution of 5.4K at 30 frames per second fps, or 4K at up to 60fps, and 1080p at up to 120fps.

Is the DJI Air 2S good for beginners?

While powerful, the DJI Air 2S can be a good drone for beginners who are serious about aerial photography/videography and willing to learn.

Its intelligent flight modes and APAS 4.0 obstacle avoidance provide a good safety net, but mastering all its features takes practice.

What is the flight time of the DJI Air 2S?

The DJI Air 2S has a stated maximum flight time of 31 minutes. In real-world conditions, accounting for wind and active flight, you can typically expect around 20-25 minutes of practical flight time per battery.

Does the DJI Air 2S support D-Log M color profile?

Yes, the DJI Air 2S supports the D-Log M 10-bit color profile, which provides a flat image for greater flexibility in post-production color grading, ideal for professional video workflows. Istorage Diskashur M2 Review

What is MasterShots on the DJI Air 2S?

MasterShots is an intelligent flight feature unique to the Air 2S that allows the drone to automatically plan and execute a series of complex flight maneuvers while recording video, then automatically edits the footage into a cinematic clip with podcast and effects.

Do I need to register the DJI Air 2S with the FAA in the US?

Yes, in the United States, if you are flying for recreational or commercial purposes, you are required to register the DJI Air 2S with the FAA because it weighs over 250 grams 595g.

What kind of SD card do I need for the DJI Air 2S?

For the DJI Air 2S, you should use a microSD card with a V30 speed class or higher and a minimum write speed of 60MB/s, such as a SanDisk Extreme Pro or Samsung EVO Plus, to handle 5.4K video recording effectively.

Can the DJI Air 2S fly in rain or strong winds?

While the DJI Air 2S has some wind resistance, it is not waterproof and should not be flown in rain or heavy precipitation. It can handle moderate winds up to about 24 mph / 38 km/h, but strong winds will significantly reduce flight time and stability.

What’s the difference between the Air 2S and the Mavic 3 Classic?

The main difference is the camera sensor and size. The Air 2S has a 1-inch sensor, while the Mavic 3 Classic features a larger 4/3-inch Hasselblad sensor, offering superior image quality, especially in low light, and longer flight times. The Mavic 3 Classic is also larger and heavier.

Is the DJI Air 2S suitable for professional use?

The DJI Air 2S is highly suitable for prosumer and semi-professional use, especially for content creators, real estate photography, and travel videography. For high-end cinematic productions or demanding commercial operations, a drone like the Mavic 3 series or an Inspire might be preferred due to their even larger sensors and features.

Does the DJI Air 2S come with ND filters?

If you purchase the DJI Air 2S Fly More Combo, it typically includes a set of Neutral Density ND filters. These are essential for videographers to control exposure in bright conditions and achieve cinematic motion blur. The standard package usually does not include them.

What is O3 transmission and how does it benefit the Air 2S?

O3 OcuSync 3.0 is DJI’s advanced video transmission technology. It benefits the Air 2S by providing a more stable, reliable, and longer-range video feed up to 12 km FCC with lower latency, which is crucial for safe and precise drone operation.

Can I control the aperture on the DJI Air 2S camera?

No, the DJI Air 2S camera has a fixed aperture of f/2.8. You cannot manually adjust it. To control exposure, you rely on shutter speed, ISO, and ND filters.

What is FocusTrack on the DJI Air 2S?

FocusTrack is a suite of intelligent tracking modes on the Air 2S that includes ActiveTrack 4.0 for following subjects, Spotlight 2.0 keeping a subject in frame while you fly manually, and POI 3.0 circling a point of interest. Adaware Antivirus Pro Review

How does the AirSense feature work on the Air 2S?

AirSense on the DJI Air 2S uses ADS-B technology to detect nearby traditional aircraft airplanes and helicopters that are equipped with ADS-B transmitters. It then alerts the drone pilot to their presence and location on the control screen, enhancing airspace awareness.

Can I take panoramic photos with the DJI Air 2S?

What kind of remote controller comes with the DJI Air 2S?

The DJI Air 2S typically comes with the standard DJI RC-N1 remote controller, which requires you to connect your smartphone to serve as the display.

Is there a Fly More Combo for the DJI Air 2S? What does it include?

Yes, there is a DJI Air 2S Fly More Combo. It typically includes the drone, three Intelligent Flight Batteries, a battery charging hub, a set of ND filters, extra propellers, and a shoulder bag.

How long does it take to charge a DJI Air 2S battery?

A single DJI Air 2S Intelligent Flight Battery usually takes approximately 1.5 hours to fully charge using the standard charger or charging hub.

Does the DJI Air 2S have internal storage?

Yes, the DJI Air 2S has 8 GB of internal storage, which can be useful as a backup or for quick shots if you forget your microSD card. However, for extensive shooting, a high-capacity microSD card is essential.

Can I use the DJI Air 2S for real estate photography?

Yes, the DJI Air 2S is an excellent drone for real estate photography due to its 1-inch sensor, 20MP photo capabilities, and 5.4K video, which allows for capturing high-quality stills and cinematic video tours of properties.

What’s the difference between APAS 4.0 and APAS 5.0?

APAS 4.0, found on the Air 2S, provides four-directional obstacle sensing. APAS 5.0, found on the Mavic 3 series, offers omnidirectional obstacle avoidance including upward and downward sensors for greater coverage and generally more sophisticated obstacle avoidance algorithms for smoother and safer flight paths.

Can I fly the DJI Air 2S without a smartphone?

No, to fly the DJI Air 2S using the standard RC-N1 remote controller, you need to connect a smartphone to run the DJI Fly app, which serves as the display and provides access to all flight settings and intelligent features.

What are the best accessories for the DJI Air 2S?

Essential accessories for the DJI Air 2S include the Fly More Combo for extra batteries and ND filters, high-speed microSD cards e.g., SanDisk Extreme Pro, a sturdy carrying case or backpack e.g., PGYTECH OneMo Lite, and potentially propeller guards for flying in confined spaces.

Does the DJI Air 2S have a follow-me mode?

Yes, the DJI Air 2S has a follow-me mode as part of its ActiveTrack 4.0 feature, which is part of the broader FocusTrack suite. This allows the drone to autonomously follow a designated moving subject. Meyer Optik Gorlitz Primoplan 75 F19 Ii Review

What kind of photography modes does the Air 2S offer?

The Air 2S offers various photography modes, including Single Shot, Burst Shooting, AEB Auto Exposure Bracketing, Timed Shot, SmartPhoto integrating HDR, HyperLight, Scene Recognition, and various Panorama modes.

Is the DJI Air 2S waterproof?

No, the DJI Air 2S is not waterproof and should not be exposed to water or operated in rainy conditions. This could damage the drone’s electronics and motors.