What’s In Nic’s Bag: DJI Mini 2 Review
The perfect travel drone is here.
I posted one drone video to my IG stories and got a ton of dm’s asking about it. So I’ll kick this series off with the DJI Mini 2 Review! If you’re looking for an in-depth technical comparison to other models, etc. This is not that. I am not a drone expert. Nor am I a technical guru. I watched dozens of reviews for experts to guide me. This is actual user experience, from a beginner. I should also add, this isn’t my first drone. I knew I had this amazing trip coming up and I wanted a drone. After a ton of research, because I research everything to death, I landed on the DJI Mini 2. But I didn’t like the price. So I found a drone with “comparable” specs. All I cared about was video quality and that I could record without holding the remote. But you know what they say… You get what you pay for!
THE BACKSTORY
I purchased a Holy Stone HS175D for around $200. The specs said 4K video. Take my word for it… it was absolutely not 4K video. After confirming my suspicions, I returned the drone and settled knowing I wouldn’t have one for this trip. But 2 weeks before I left, I knew I’d regret it. I ended up buying the DJI that I should have months ago! And let me tell you… It does not disappoint. My favorite feature is quick shots which are easy preset paths for the drone to follow. All you have to do is circle your target on the screen and press start. It’s more than enough to get it out of the box up and running in no time, with minimal practice! You can read the full specs for yourself here: DJI Mini 2 Specs.
THE features
The best features worth mentioning are:
- Actual 4K footage with simple transferring, you can even Airdrop right from the controller!
- Quick Shots get great footage with minimal instruction
- Pre-made templates for creating movies
- Incredible Level 5 wind stability
- 249 G (9 oz) is below the weight for FAA registration or customs declaration
- Unbelievably compact
How many times does life have to prove that you get what you pay for? The standard package is $449, which includes the drone, all your cables and one battery. I opted for the “Fly More Combo” at $599 which includes everything in the original plus 2 additional batteries, a charging hub, a carrying case and a few miscellaneous things, like spare blades. I didn’t realize how short drone battery life is, typical is around 20-25 minutes. You’re not going to catch me in Cinque Terre with one battery. So I think the upgrade is definitely worth it. If you’re investing in a drone, why not spring for more batteries? Because preparation is my middle name, I also got the Fly Away Insurance package for an additional $79. If my drone is lost during flight, DJI will replace it up to 3 times in 2 years. Let’s hope I never need it!
Another great feature is the weight. The standard drone size is 250 grams (9 ounces) or heavier. This threshold triggers intense restrictions. Most countries will then require drone registration and a fee to operate. Some places even require a drone pilot’s license. Considering the burden of that, the DJI Mini 2 comes in at 249g. At this weight, there are no general restrictions or registration required. To avoid hassle at the border, the weight is printed on the actual drone. Aside from Morocco, I have had no issues entering a country without any form off declaration and flying in approved zones. Also note, Morocco bans all drones, not just the mini class.
THE rules
As always, research where your drone is allowed. We don’t want to be that person showing up in a different country expecting our rules to apply. Regulations vary from country to country. In Monaco for example, written approval from the Prince is required to operate a drone. Even then, it is only for professional purposes. Other places are far stricter. Morocco does not allow drones within the country at all. I had to check my drone into customs storage at my own expense and pay to retrieve it upon my exit. Even if it’s allowed in a country, double check within the city limits. With the growing popularity of drones comes growing restrictions. Most monuments, public spaces, near airports, etc. are no-drone zones. DJI is great for this because once it is turned on, it actually notifies you on the screen if you are in a no-fly zone. You must manually check that you are aware and accepting responsibility for the flight. In extreme cases, near military bases or airports for example, the drone will auto land. Do yourself a favor and double check beforehand.
THE summary
If you’re looking for a drone that gets great footage, is easy for beginners but not beginner quality, this is it. The presets allow you to get usable footage immediately, while you practice manually at your own pace. I would highly recommend the DJI Mini 2 to anyone interested in a quality drone without the full-size professional price. I’ve counted how many trips I need to retake to get good drone footage. This is definitely my new travel buddy! If this DJI Mini 2 review doesn’t convince you, you can see more drone footage on my IG page!
This is not a sponsored post, and I received no commission for my DJI Mini 2 Review.
