When it comes to 4k drones that are currently popular and available on the market, Mavic Pro, Phantom 4 Pro, and Inspire 1 Pro are among the names that top the list of best drones 2018. If you are setting your eyes into buying one of these choices, it is very important to know their similarities, as well as the key features that make them distinct from each other.
Comparison of Mavic Pro vs Phantom 4 Pro vs Inspire 1 Pro:
#1. DJI Mavic Pro
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One of the standout features of the Mavic Pro drone is portability. Rather than creating the manufacturer standard space-hogging and fixed-arm hull, this drone features an interesting array of folding arms, as well as props that allows the drone to easily fold into a neat package which is about the size of a usual brick. With its compact controller, the Mavic Pro has turned out as among the most portable drones ever designed.
Upfront, this model comes with a 4K camera, as well as a super compact 3-axis for its gimbal design. This enables the device to easily capture amazingly stabilized video images without any cutbacks in resolution needed for digital stabilization. On top of that, behind the camera features, this drone also operates using the Optical Flow software and DJI’s ActiveTrack, allowing it to easily track objects, while sensing potential obstacles using its camera, as well as its image analysis algorithms.
Both range and flight specs are also impressive too. The manufacturer has equipped this drone with a video transmission system referred to as OcuSync, stretching the max range of Mavic Pro to more than 4 miles, while boosting its overall resistance to potential interference. On the other hand, at shorter ranges, this technology even has the capacity to stream footage at 1080p resolution, allowing both video and photo downloads at 40 mbps.
When it comes to quality of build and design, DJI also deserves a lot of praise. It is brilliantly designed. Folding of this drone is brought to a higher level. With its amazing hinge system, the arms easily fold into a little package which is smaller compared to that of an average brick, making it easy to store inside your messenger bag or backpack. It can even be fitted inside a purse.
Another element in design that is well-loved by drone enthusiasts is the use of its portable controller. It is not small enough like that of a weak smartphone app, while it is not a huge ground station which may consume a huge space in your bag. Overall, the design has been well-thought of, designed as a hybrid model that allows you to fold it up, or in full frame after flipping out the antennas.
One thing to watch out for, however, is its 3-axis gimbal design. While it is impressively compact and small, it is being held in place using 4 small rubber bands which tend to be fragile. If a rubber band snaps, the camera may have problems stabilizing itself. Aside from this flaw in design, other things are designed to last.
#2. DJI Phantom 4 PRO – Professional Drone
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This drone model delivers amazing results and is highly entertaining. However, you may not be able to expect a lot out of it if you need professional control. Among the capabilities of this model includes the use of a one-inch 20 MP camera which has the capacity to shoot 4K 60, bursting photos at 14 FPS.
Another feature it offers is the use of a 5 directional obstacle sensing which keeps the drone right in the air even though there may be potential obstacles along the way. This is a huge improvement from the four directions offered by its sibling, the Phantom 4. It works together with the Active Track software that allows the drone to focus on a specific subject in a number of ways, allowing you to do some maneuvers which may take both skill and repetition. And if you want to protect your drone from losing, then check out this review list of the best drone tackers.
Among the other upgrades is the integration of an improved battery and lighter body which in turn, extends its flight time up to 30 minutes. The manufacturer also seems to see the benefits of the GoPro book by including a monitory display with a remote for this model. Its ultra-bright screen allows for better viewing even under direct sunlight. This is a problem that is usually encountered by most users.
The Phantom 4 Pro is regarded as an evolution of the Phantom 4, boasting significant improvements in this model. The use of a 1-inch image sensor can be described as four times the actual size of the Phantom 4 model. The manufacturer has also decided to introduce aperture control, as well as a mechanical shutter. This new camera is better, bigger, and far more customizable.
When it comes to design, it is closely similar to the original Phantom 4. The same hull shape is retained, with slight differences in the location where the sensors are placed. The extra sensors are now attached into the legs of the drones, while both optical and infrared sensors have been fitted to the left and right sides of the drone. Even the camera is a big larger compared to the original size.
The only opportunity for improvement in this model is that it lacks portability. The props and arms cannot be folded down, while the landing gear cannot be retracted or collapsed. Obviously, portability is not in its design, even though it is still small enough to be stored inside your backpack when needed.
#3. DJI Inspire 1 Pro Drone
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The Inspire 1 Pro drone can be quite intimidating to the hands. It comes with dimensions 16 x 16 x 12 inches. This only means that it is a huge piece of equipment. It uses the latest Zenmuse Micro Four Thirds sensor, alongside its 15mm feet/1.7 lens that is capable of capturing clear 4K video as well as high-definition images.
Among the standard capabilities of this model includes the capacity to travel at 50 mph, fly even in freezing temperatures, as well as the capability to ascend to a height of 15,000 feet. When it comes to design, this drone comes with a main housing that comes in a stark white color, featuring an aerodynamic design.
With this model’s remote focus features, you can take full control of your camera focus. Combining this feature with the aperture control, you can expect a higher level of creative freedom. With remote focus, you can also simply tap the screen inside the GO app. You may even turn in a dial, similar to that of turning a lens for a better control.
The use of Zenmuse stabilization system incorporates an interior high-grade design of magnesium alloy which comes as a result of the manufacturer’s research as well as professional level study. On top of that, the use of a 3-axis gimbal design, this drone can hold up well despite a windy situation, keeping the camera right in place without risky movements.
Individuals who will end up preferring the Inspire 1 Pro model will likely be those who need to perform professional aerial shots. With this, you have the option to buy dual controller systems. However, if you just use this model for leisure, a single controller will do the job well. While you can easily fly this drone using its joysticks, you can explore its touch screen in order to pan in the view of the drone.
Overall, the Inspire 1 Pro is an amazing professional equipment. This is ideal for cinematographers, as well as those who can afford its price. Among the three models presented in this guide, the Inspire 1 Pro offers the most advanced features.
Features Summary
To summarize the features and capabilities of each model, there are some features that you need to remember.
The Mavic Pro is similar to a high end quality of smartphone. It comes with amazing quality, and feels great to the feel. However, if you are a keen observer of technical camera features, you will notice its lower quality of sensor.
The Phantom 4 Pro is similar to that of an entry-level DSLR camera. This means that you can expect creating a professional image output with this model.
On the other hand, Inspire 1 Pro can be regarded as a high-end and full-frame DSLR camera. This means that its quality is highly professional. This also means that it can be more difficult to use, and relatively more expensive. You can expect, however, that it offers the best quality of image.
However, if you are looking for the best quality features that produces professional quality output, no doubt that the Inspire 1 Pro is the option to go.
More: Master Drone Photography Like a Pro with these 10 Tips and Tricks.
Mavic Pro vs Phantom 4 Pro – Which One to Buy?
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