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Dji Mavic 2 Pro and Zoom Review – Quadcopter Drone

dji mavic 2 pro and zoom 2 quadcopter drone
DJI Mavic Pro 2 on the top and DJI Mavic zoom on the bottom in a professional dark background

Summary

The Mavic 2 series drones take all the things you liked about previous versions and pulls the boundaries further. Grab yours now and prepare yourself to see the bigger picture.

Pros

  • It can comfortably fit in your hand once folded.
  • Highly convenient and portable to take with you.
  • DJI’s quietest aircraft yet.
  • Able to take 4K video at 100Mbps.
  • The gimbal protector is simple to take off and put on, and it is one piece.
  • 8 GB onboard storage that you can expand with Micro USB cards.
  • Battery life of around 31 minutes.
  • You can remove the detachable sticks and store inside the remote controller.
  • OcuSync 2.0 which beams 1080p first-person view (FPV) footage.
  • Obstacle avoidance in every direction.

Cons

  • It is bulky – not as bulky as an Inspire or Phantom of course.
  • More expensive compared to the DJI Phantom 4. But it will all be worth it.
  • 4K still shot at 30 FPS.
  • The battery will not be working with earlier Mavic models.
  • Obstacle sensing to left/right only compatible with Tripod and ActiveTrack modes.

Introduction

If you are looking for a quadcopter, your decision just got much more difficult.

DJI, the number one global drones manufacturer, did it again.

And guess what? This time it is a UAV that feels like a DSLR while flying.

Yes, they have developed a Mavic 2 series that is able and created to bring your aerial videography and photography to a whole new level.

Trust Us. It will become among the best folding drones available.

Keep reading our DJI Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 2 Zoom review, and you will find out.

Mavic Pro 2 Specifications

  • Model: Mavic 2 Pro
  • Manufacturer: DJI
  • Type: RTF
  • Style: Quadcopter / Foldable
  • Size: Folded – 214×91×84 mm / Unfolded – 322×242×84 mm
  • Diagonal Distance: 354 mm
  • Weight: 907 g
  • Sensor: 1” CMOS
  • Camera: 20 MP / 4K
  • Stabilization: 3-axis
  • Photo Resolution: 5472×3648
  • Video Resolution: 3840×2160
  • Video Bitrate: 100Mbps
  • Flight Ceiling: 6000 m
  • Maximum Flight Time: 31 minutes
  • Wind Speed Resistance: 29-38 kph
  • Maximum Flight Distance: 18 km
  • Charging Time: 1.5 hours
  • Control Modes: Remote controller
  • Top Speed: 44 mph
  • Operating Temperature: -10°C – 40°C
  • Operating Frequency: 2.4 GHz / 5.8 GHz
  • Storage: 8GB internal (SD card support up to 128GB)
  • Sensing System: Omnidirectional obstacle sensing
  • Video Transmission System: OcuSync 2.0
  • App: DJI GO 4
  • Indoor or Outdoor: Both
  • Bundle Options: Base model / Fly more kit / Goggles series
  • Price Range: $$

Mavic 2 Zoom Specifications

  • Manufacturer: DJI
  • Type: RTF
  • Style: Quadcopter / Foldable
  • Size: Folded – 214×91×84 mm / Unfolded – 322×242×84 mm
  • Diagonal Distance: 354 mm
  • Weight: 905 g
  • Sensor: 1/2.3″ CMOS
  • Camera: 12 MP / 4K
  • Stabilization: 3-axis
  • Photo Resolution: 4000×3000
  • Video Resolution: 3840×2160
  • Video Bitrate: 100Mbps
  • Flight Ceiling: 6000 m
  • Maximum Flight Time: 31 minutes
  • Wind Speed Resistance: 29-38 kph
  • Maximum Flight Distance: 18 km
  • Charging Time: 1.5 hours
  • Control Modes: Remote controller
  • Top Speed: 44 mph
  • Operating Temperature: -10°C – 40°C
  • Operating Frequency: 2.4 GHz / 5.8 GHz
  • Storage: 8GB internal (SD card support up to 128GB)
  • Sensing System: Omnidirectional obstacle sensing
  • Video Transmission System: OcuSync 2.0
  • App: DJI GO 4
  • Indoor or Outdoor: Both
  • Bundle Options: Base model / Fly more kit / Goggles series
  • Price Range: $$$$

Packaging

  • Mavic 2 Zoom (or Pro) Aircraft × 1
  • Remote Controller × 1
  • Intelligent Flight Battery × 1
  • Battery Charger × 1
  • Power Cable × 1
  • Propellers (Set) × 3
  • RC Cable (Lightning connector) × 1
  • RC Cable (Standard Micro USB connector) × 1
  • RC Cable (USB Type-C connector) × 1
  • Gimbal Protector × 1
  • Communication Cable (USB3.0 Type-C) × 1
  • USB Adapter × 1
  • Spare Control Sticks (Set) × 1

Mavic 2 Fly More Kit

  • Intelligent Flight Batteries × 2
  • Battery Charging Hub × 1
  • Car Charger × 1
  • Battery to Power Bank Adapter × 1
  • Low-Noise Propellers × 2 Sets
  • Shoulder Bag × 1

Mavic 2 Pro & Zoom Design

Both the Pro and Zoom feature the exact portable folding design that helped cause the first Mavic Pro drone such a hit. It is still foldable.

However, it appears DJI have been able to improve the style for more compactness.

These are approximately the dimension of a water bottle from Nalgene in length and width.

While its size and folding design are very identical to the original Mavic Pro quadcopter, it is solid looking and much sleeker.

The arms nonetheless fold the same method but are somewhat bigger and extremely solid feel. Its lines got refined.

The Mavic 2 is available in a matte gray color that is slightly lighter compared to the first edition.

Also, the form has undergone a slight update, along with rounded edges and a more streamlined body.

Every design aspect, every surface, and every part component plays a part in its functionality.

DJI tucked the gimbal and camera below the front side of the quad offering more safety when on the floor.

Also, they fixed obstacle sensors all over the drone.

The ventilation holes on the edges help circulate breeze to maintain the copter cooler while flying.

The drone’s front landing gear sports antennas. Even they updated motors design to provide you with more power.

Overall, DJI has applied the solid base of the existing product and made small, but noticeable changes across the hood.

Pro & Zoom 2’s Camera Quality

The DJI Mavic Pro 2 features a video camera having a 1-inch sensor engineered in collaboration with Hasselblad, while the Mavic Zoom houses a camera featuring the optical zoom.

Zoomed picture of Mavic 2 PRO & Mavic 2 Zoom Camera in a black background

Although it appears like you cannot have the two in one product, on their self all these features were excellent.

The Pro could capture 20-megapixel shots with accurate colors.

The Zoom can capture 12-megapixel images or make use of the latest “Super Resolution” option.

It uses optical zooming to automatically snap and stitch nine photos jointly for a very detailed 48 MP image.

Both drones have a 3-axis stabilization, which provides professional and smooth video in even the hardest conditions, internal memory built-in, just like the DJI Mavic Air.

Also, improved features such as enhanced HDR shots that limit unwanted noises and boost dynamic range, and “Hyperlight,” which provides a powerful low-light setting to reduce noise and to improve quality.

All this creating the Mavic 2 among the most advanced camera drones you will find in the marketplace.

You are essentially receiving the camera specs from the Phantom 4 Pro by DJI on the more portable, smaller Mavic body.

Mavic 2 Battery & Flight Time

One big difference that you will notice is the batteries.

The battery will fit into the craft with a decent click that signals you the position is locked.

DJI supplies an adapter which should turn your single battery charger into one that can charge four batteries at the same time.

Not only will it look unique, with round LED lights to show the remaining charge, it also delivers more power versus the original one.

It requires an increased capability to provide the slightly heavy Mavic 2 extra flight time compared to the original – about 31 minutes in perfect conditions.

Controller Functions of PRO Series

The remote controller’s design is nearly the same as the first Mavic Pro drone.

The Mavic 2 includes a transmitter which can get combined with a mobile device to display a real-time feed of the flight.

They even update it to compatibility with full-screen smartphones.

With a foldable, ergonomic design and removable sticks, it is a convenient item to take on any adventure.

It can sustain battery life of close to 135 minutes on a complete charge.

Flight Performance Zoom and Pro Models

The flight experience is the equal on each the Zoom and Pro models of the Mavic 2 series.

The good news is these drones vary in price according to the camera.

So, no matter what you select, you will enjoy a great flying experience.

These drones are easy to fly.

Both versions have a flight time of 31 minutes and the highest battery life for any consumer-grade drone, a maximum 44 mph speed in “Sport” mode (without wind conditions), and feature an all-new DJI low-noise flight tech, making them a few of the silent drones you shall buy.

Another innovation the Mavic 2 provides is a set of very shiny LEDs on the lower part of the multirotor.

They placed the LED lights to help maintain the Visual Line of Sight (VLOS) with the drone while flying and is visible in both darkness and daylight.

Features & Functions Pro & Zoom

Once you find about all the advanced functions, you will not believe how they add it all to such a tiny body.

OcuSync 2.0

One great feature is the next gen of OcuSync that should transmit real-time video at 1080p for close to 8km.

Also, this update in OcuSync means you can store your original quality photos straight to your smartphone while flying and do not have to take them from the MicroSD card.

Low-Noise Flight Technology

Like we saw with the Phantom 4 Pro update previously this year, the Mavic Pro 2 boasts tapered low-noise (and sleeker) props.

Those, plus advanced FOC ESC drivers provide improved sound control.

DJI claims aircraft noise got reduced by about 60 percent for a more enjoyable, quieter flights.

Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing

You will find obstacle sensors in all corners of the drone.

The Advanced Pilot Assistance Systems (APAS) enables the aircraft to avoid backward or front collisions during flight.

They even fixed a rear auxiliary light in the drone that shines when landing in dim conditions and supports downward facing sensors.

Any obstacle sensor is not foolproof so that you still have to focus mid-flight.

However, having sensors in all directions is a massive improvement over prior drones generations and certainly gives relief to users who might hover in tight places.

Hyperlapse

Famous QuickShot modes like “Boomerang” and “Asteroid” stay, but DJI introduced the “Hyperlapse” mode, which offers a groundbreaking technique to shoot gorgeous time-lapses mid-flight.

Also, four options add ease of use and flexibility to this mode: Waypoint, Course Lock, Circle, and Free.

We are in love with Hyperlapse since we have used to make this effect manually in the past with limited outcome.

The integrated Quickshot handles everything to you.

Also, you can view the Hyperlapse video on your smartphone shortly once you record it.

Hyperlapse

Famous QuickShot modes like “Boomerang” and “Asteroid” stay, but DJI introduced the “Hyperlapse” mode, which offers a groundbreaking technique to shoot gorgeous time-lapses mid-flight.

Also, four options add ease of use and flexibility to this mode: Waypoint, Course Lock, Circle, and Free.

We are in love with Hyperlapse since we have used to make this effect manually in the past with limited outcome.

The integrated Quickshot handles everything to you.

Also, you can view the Hyperlapse video on your smartphone shortly once you record it.

Dolly Zoom

Unique to the DJI Mavic 2 Zoom model is the innovative Dolly Zoom QuickShot mode decodes a new language for storytelling which was previously exclusive to pro cinematographers.

It instantly zooms in as it takes off from the subject, keeping your target the exact size as the full scene’s background gets revealed.

ActiveTrack 2.0

ActiveTrack 2.0 updates the previous edition that consumers (and probably you) loved, but provides far more precision.

Also, trajectory prediction can track objects through advanced patterns and remain on course, whether the object disappeared behind a road curve, tree, or other interruption to the travel path.

Hasselblad Natural Color Solution

Speaking about colors, in contrast to the Zoom model, the Mavic Pro 2 uses Hasselblad Natural Color Solution (HNCS) for more accurate and natural colors.

Having the upgraded colors profile, it can record over one billion colors, while the Zoom model shoots 16 million shades.

Frequently Asked Questions

There may be a few questions regarding these newest DJI drones which have to get clarified.

This section sums up common doubts which may assist you to learn more on the Mavic 2.

What is the main difference between the Mavic 2 Zoom and Mavic 2 Pro?

The only feature unique with the Zoom version is the video camera.

It features a 12-megapixel 1/2.3-inch sensor with four-times zoom, plus a two-times optic zoom (24mm to 48mm).

How has the DJI Mavic 2 upgraded compared to the original Mavic Pro?

The previous Mavic Pro is a good drone and must not get ignored. However, if you need the most innovative and latest drone out there, we highly suggest that you look at the Mavic 2 quadcopter.

It is an advancement in almost every aspect over the original one including flight speed, omnidirectional obstacle sensing, video transmission, intelligent functions, camera performance, low-noise, flight time, and one of a kind Hyperlapse feature.

Is the drone waterproof?

No.

What are the key features of the cams on both the models?

The Mavic Pro 2 comes pre-loaded with the new Hasselblad L1D-20c video camera.

It has one-inch CMOS sensor for better performance at low-light environments along with a far more intensive ISO range, plus max ISO increased from 3200 to 12,800.

The Zoom model is everything about dynamic angles and driven by a 12-megapixel 1/2.3 inch sensor with four-times zoom, which includes a two-times optic zoom (24mm to 48mm) for more innovative aerial photography choices.

Why is the maximum flight time higher on the Mavic 2 compared to the successor?

Thanks to the more aerodynamic frame, the Mavic 2 uses up less power in certain forward speeds compared to when flying.

So, the maximum battery life can be about 31 minutes in a constant pace in conditions without wind.

Can I use the remote controller of Mavic Pro to control the Mavic 2?

At the moment, no. However, it should be possible soon – Says DJI.

How long will it take to charge a battery completely?

Around 1.5 hours.

Can I make use of the battery charging station to charge four batteries simultaneously?

No. The battery charging station charges batteries in a pattern based on their power from higher to lower, avoiding the interchanging hassle them when charging.

Sequence charging provides you a completely charged battery on the fastest way.

Conclusion on Mavic 2 Pro vs Zoom

The Pro model of the DJI Mavic 2 includes much high-quality camera compared to the Zoom model, and it is the real option for professional photographers.

On the other hand, the Zoom model is more versatile, easier to use, and cheaper.

It might not be the perfect option for photographers; however, it still captures excellent video.

DJI has yet again elevated the bar for portability and performance with the DJI Mavic 2 drone.

Even if it is the right quadcopter for you will depend on how much you would like to take your creativity.

Will the Mavic 2 be the future of drones? Share your opinions on our Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 2 Zoom review in the comment box below or check out MyDearDrone’s social media channels.

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