Summary
If you are searching for a craft that’s capable of taking high-quality videos and photos without the professional price, DJI Mavic Air 2 drone review is your dream come true. Our below in-depth review will present you with a thorough evaluation of this quad.
Pros
- Folding, compact design
- Excellent video and stills quality
- Larger image sensor
- Greatly improved flight time
- Very simple to fly
- Improved remote controller
- New smart image features
- Good price
Cons
- No screen in the controller
- Bigger compared to the previous model
- App feels somewhat limited
- The internal storage can be bigger
Introduction
DJI does it once again!
Their latest Mavic Air 2 is probably the top drone yet.
Yes, it does appear to be an odd period for DJI company to be releasing a new model. However, it is one means to keep a check on your surrounding while staying in the security of your house.
This successor for the Mavic Air from the year 2018 uses its predecessor’s general concept and redesigns it entirely from scratch.
The DJI Mavic Air 2 quadcopter brings a host of advanced features, a much-improved camera, and an entirely redesigned hand remote control to the table.
Here is our DJI Mavic Air 2 Review for you!
Specifications
- Model: DJI Mavic Air 2
- Type: RTF
- Style: Folding Drone
- Price Range: $$$$
- Weight: 570 g
- Folded Dimensions: 180×97×84 mm
- Unfolded Dimensions: 183×253×77 mm
- Camera: 4K / 48MP
- Stabilization: 3-Axis
- Flight Time: 34 Minutes
- Charging Time: 90 Minutes
- Top Speed: 42.5 MPH
- Range: 18.5 KM
- Max Service Ceiling: 5000 m
- Max Wind Speed Resistance: 8.5-10.5 m/s (Level 5)
- Remote Control: Use Remote Controller or Smartphone Connected to Controller Using App
- App: DJI Fly
- Internal Storage: 8 GB
- Packages: DJI Mavic Air 2 Base / Mavic Air 2 Fly More Combo
- Release Date: April 2020
- Warranty: Standard DJI Warranty
Packaging – What You Will Get?
The Mavic Air 2 comes in two bundles: Basic & Fly More.
Along with the controller and drone, the Basic package includes a charger, one battery, and all cables and wires.
The Fly More kit is worth it should you consider drone hovering seriously and does it often.
Together with the controller and drone, it includes a multiple charging hub, two batteries, a carry case, and ND filters.
Design, Build, and Ease of Use
The DJI Mavic Air 2 allots with its predecessor’s eye-catchy design and renders its Mavic heritage with style so similar to the Mavic 2; it is hard to pick the difference in first sight.
That design method has benefits that are hard to ignore.
Let us discuss the size & weight.
The brand-new Air 2 weighs 570 grams against the present model’s 430 grams.
That is a not surprising weight gain provided the new larger camera and the extra features.
The weight of Air 2 is higher compared to the limitations enforced from the FAA; thus, this is a quadcopter you will need to register.
This UAV measures a small 180x97x84mm once folded – roughly equal to a 500ml beer bottle – and only 183x253x77mm once unfolded.
All things of the Air 2 Mavic – from the craft to the application that you have to adjust the flight and camera settings – are recreated with usability at heart.
Deficiencies on the build and design of the initial Mavic Air and Mavic 2 Pro versions have all been resolved.
It sits low onto the ground in its rear arms.
This means that while taking off on grassy fields, you should find a flat surface with shorter grass to prevent trimming it during landing and take-off. Because of this, it is worth taking a tiny landing pad.
On flatter, harder surfaces, this certainly is not a problem.
Given that among the main selling points of the original Mavic Air was its small size, it looks like a strange decision to lead it up along with a much less aesthetically gratifying model which is closer on dimensions towards the Mavic 2 Zoom/Pro than it’s to the present Mavic Air.
Camera – Let’s Talk Photo and Video Quality
Its burst photo and basic single photo quality are the same as the Mini and Mavic Air (12MP).
Nevertheless, put it on the single-shot option, and you could benefit from a whopping 48 megapixels to shoot detailed and sharp shots like nothing else.
The present Air’s camera has a compact small 1/2.3” CMOS sensor able to capture 4K/30 fps at 12MP stills and 100 Mbps.
By massive difference, this one’s half-inch new CMOS sensor can shoot at a frankly amazing 4K/60fps in 120 Mbps.
Still, as all drones having small sensors, the sound is apparent at even 100 ISO, so 400 ISO is the highest option you would want to set.
The camera lens offers a full-frame corresponding 24mm focal length with a fixed f/2.8 aperture.
The depth-of-field is large enough to maintain close.
Also, it can record 8X and 4X slow-motion footage and 1080p video in 240 FPS.
The Air 2 also can record HDR video, yet the max quality for this option is 30fps/4K.
Serious editors can also be delighted D-Cinelike is a choice, and video is captured with H.264 or H.265.
Meanwhile, both footage and stills benefit from exposure lock, touch-to-expose, as well as manual exposure settings; thus, the camera offers as much innovative control as many need.
Other brilliant videos and photo-related additions consist of Scene Recognition (5 categories from blue skies and sunsets to grass and snow), a Hyperlight function which takes multiple pictures and stitches these together to create noiseless low-light photos and HDR (High Dynamic Range) which merges seven different exposures to produce images with rich contrast and detail.
The three-axis gimbal plays a role here too, which means vibration is not picked out in videos and photos.
If you only rip via the air on Sport mode, then make a sharp turn may your gimbal jerk out to re-angle the camera.
Flight Time – DJI Record of 34 Minutes
In case of flight time is a crucial factor to you, in that case, this one makes the DJI history of 34 mins on one 90-minute charge.
It’s a massive improvement over the initial Mavic Air’s flight time of 21 minutes and is three minutes higher compared to the Mavic 2 drones.
While we have not done a complete test still of the Air 2’s flight time, we noticed we could get a minimum of 22 minutes from the drone.
This flight included a decent amount of flying (which uses up the battery quicker) as we took pictures too.
However, in contrast to the much tinier Mavic Mini, the battery cannot be charged through USB.
Therefore, if you are planning on filming in the outdoors for some days without access to electricity, get a car charger or some spare batteries when available.
Flight Performance – Is It Easy to Fly?
We never were going to get let down by how good the Mavic Air 2 hovers.
And clear enough, it is impeccable in each respect – stable as a rock and very confidence-inspiring, even on a stiff wind.
Perhaps more notably, this drone is a joy to take flight; out-of-the-box stick options are just ok, and the smart modes appear well balanced for photography or when it comes to Sport, fun.
The Air 2 is assuring in mid-air in a method that it is junior sibling not. Although we have only been able to fly in a mild breeze to date, the new speed controllers and motors appeared to beef up the stability provided by the additional weight.
It sports three different maximum speeds: on Sport mode, this now reaches a remarkably nippy 68kph (42.5mph); Normal mode on 43kph (27mph); and Tripod mode to slow soft handle when videoing at 18kph (11mph).
The battery’s maximum 34 minutes, or 31 minutes in flight, felt somewhat optimistic, yet no more so compared to any other comparative drone’s quoted number. We were shown the low battery alert timely on our testing (which involved mixed flights).
It got an impressive wind-resistance as well. DJI claims it can endure in winds as high as 10.5m/s, remaining stable and smooth when it becomes windy.
Of course, we will have to do plenty more hovering to see simply how wind-proof this drone. However, from the figures alone, it is looking good indeed.
In the proper conditions, it is possible to pilot this multirotor about 10km apart while still getting the video output.
Absolute max flight range is a truly incredible 18.5 KM, yet you should have lost feed signal far before then.
Air 2 Hand Controller
Surprisingly, when this drone takes it all styling cues via its bigger and smaller brothers, the remote control marks a substantial departure off the traditional folding compact grip style for good.
The new controller probably sees the most changes. Yes, it is chunkier and large than before, yet its square shape seems very comfortable on our hand credits to contoured grips in the rear plus its 393 grams weight.
Initially, we feared we would not like the bulkier, substantial controller, yet when we flew Air 2 across, we loved getting our iPhone’s screen over the joysticks instead of underneath. It felt much natural in that posture.
This controller includes butter-smooth joysticks, which store aside in small recesses on the front side.
The gimbal’s pitch handle wheel, in the meantime, is as responsive as ever; thus, it can be fine-tuned for damping and speed in the software’s settings.
Also, the controller has a better 10km transmission distance, so that you may fly the drone feasibly up to 6 miles apart, and still receive a clear photo on your smartphone’s screen.
Obviously, you should operate a drone only where you may still view it, yet it is a pretty remarkable range.
Rather than grappling with cumbersome swing-out cradle arms plus a phone cable, which was challenging to fit in, this one uses a top-mounted spring-loaded cradle large enough for many phones, also a basic cable system which unfurls from storage to plug to the phone quickly.
For direct access handles, the controller provides just a fistful which includes the joysticks to flight control, flight mode button to change in between Sport, Normal, and Tripod Modes, a switch to swap from photos to clip, a Return-to-Home button, a shutter button, one FN button, a gimbal dial control, and a switch to turn on the transmitter on or off.
Flight Modes – Improved Intelligent FocusTrack Functions
The Mavic Air 2 drone comes with 3 FocusTrack modes to make pro-style aerial photography easily accessible for everyone.
First among those is the brand-new Spotlight 2.0, like equipped to DJI’s professional-spec Inspire line. Spotlight lets you set the camera in a subject (just draw in a rectangle shape around it) when the user concentrates on piloting the aerial vehicle. It is an excellent choice that helps provide video a very professional, smooth look.
ActiveTrack 3.0 allows you to choose a target, and the Air 2 would automatically track it. This latest version is intended to not only follow a subject a lot better, yet avoid obstacles and re-lock in the target should it temporarily goes behind an object.
Point of Interest 3.0 enables you to make an automated flying path around a subject. Also, arriving soon is an 8k Hyperlapse function. Available from a firmware update on mid-May, it will help you shoot high-res time-lapse video clips.
Then you will find the automated ‘QuickShot’ flight modes (drone comparative of a cam’s auto mode), that help you make visually exciting content at the push of a switch.
These include Circle, Rocket, Helix, Dronie, Asteroid, or Boomerang.
DJI Mavic Air 2 Features
AirSense
AirSense is a tech that alerts drone operators regarding aircraft in the region.
It obtains ADS-B signals by all aircraft then shows their whereabouts in the controller’s display.
It is a significant innovation that can doubtlessly avoid near misses.
This feature, known as AirSense, only will be initially offered in North America, because of the COVID-19.
An edition of the DJI Air 2 with no AirSense function will be for sale in every other area, yet a version having AirSense should be globally available soon.
Auxiliary Light
It has been installed with a shiny white auxiliary light below its body that makes the craft more visible in height and gives ample glow to land in low-light conditions.
Obstacle Sensors
Also, it boasts downward, backward, and forward obstacle sensors, which makes it almost impossible to fail.
These are started up by default, and to most pilots, keeping them activated is the right option.
APAS
The drone’s APAS (Advanced Pilot Assistance System) has also given a revamp, enabling the drone to automatically work out its way across hurdles in a much smoother and accurate way.
However, it is only accessible when shooting footage at 30fps/4K; APAS switches off automatically in higher framerates.
OcuSync 2.0
The addition of OcuSync 2.0 facilitates both 5.8GHz and 2.4GHz frequencies and may switch among the two if required.
The anti-interference system also helps stop unwanted signals.
Geofencing
Another safety function is geofencing, which will prevent the quad from flying near to secure and high-risk locations like critical infrastructure and airports.
DJI Drone App
You control the Air 2 with DJI’s newest flight app, called DJI Fly.
It can do a much good job of guiding you through different modes and settings.
First seen on the DJI Mavic Mini, it is a less busy version of DJI’s flight software, which makes it simpler to discover the features you want.
It is designed for amateur pilots, removing display clutter and following a style more akin for a phone’s cam app.
On the positive side, quick tutorials to the QuickShots are useful and in no way intrusive, plus the obstacle sensor hot spots at the bottom and top of the display are useful without getting obtrusive.
The post-processing and downloading needed to the QuickShots restrict them to 30 FPS, which is not bad.
Switching camera options opens up a pop-up menu along with the various options to pick (Video, Camera, Hyperlapse, QuickShot, and – although you cannot immediately notice it without sliding – Panoramas. Once you can find Pano, Camera scrolls from the top; also, the sub-options can scroll.
The point that the processing of those very sharable videos takes place on the software is no real problem.
Photos and videos and time-lapse clips and panoramas also can be downloaded through the SD card afterward, or, in case you use drone’s 8GB storage, with the craft’s USB-C type port.
Mavic Air 2 Frequently Asked Questions
We have got all of your Air 2 drone questions answered here. Let us dive into the frequently asked questions.
What is the difference between Mavic Air 2 and Mavic Air?
Mavic Air 2 comes with an upgraded transmission system, camera performance, battery life, and a much-streamlined flight experience compared to the first Mavic Air.
Together with all those enhancements, it also got an excellent price.
Do I need to register my DJI Mavic Air 2 drone?
Whether or not you will have to register, DJI Mavic Air 2 relies upon where you are located, but below are the existing laws to the United States.
Since this quadcopter weighs more than 250g, you will simply have to register the Air 2 craft with the FAA; after that, mark your quadcopter with the provided registration number.
Also, there is an ‘Aeronautical Knowledge & Safety Test’ being designed for recreational UAS pilots, but it is not yet sure when it will get announced.
How do I insert ND filters on to the drone?
Carefully hold its camera to avoid damage, and gradually rotate its filter to detach or attach it.
Ensure the ND filter is mounted safely to prevent accidental detachment while in flight.
What are the benefits of the new remote controller?
The new remote control has a long battery life up to 4 hours, a more firm grip, a better antenna design, as well as an optimized profile; thus, you can handle your quadrotor better while flying.
Can I use my DJI smart controller with Air 2?
Yes. The Air 2 is compatible with DJI Smart Controller via a future firmware release.
However, you cannot utilize the Mavic 2 transmitter to Mavic Air 2.
What is ADS-B technology?
The Mavic Air 2 by DJI will be sold with ADS-B, a tech that alerts pilots about close by aircraft.
The controller will vibrate then display an on-screen message should an aircraft having ADS-B gets into nearby airspace, so the user of the other craft is alerted of your presence.
What is Quad Bayer filter technology?
Mavic Air 2 includes a Quad Bayer filter that controls the usage of various exposures to generate a picture with a broader dynamic range. Also, the Quad Bayer filter contributes to high-resolution, stunning images.
How can I boost Air 2 Mavic’s signal reception?
The remote controller’s smartphone clamp accommodates the antennas.
Ensure the antennas are directed toward the drone.
Additionally, please make sure you aren’t wearing any transmittable wearables, also that Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are switched off on your phone.
Can I adjust the camera options manually?
Yes. Mavic Air 2 features manual camera controls, providing you with the ultimate liberty to construct your shots.
What app do I require for Mavic Air 2?
It only can be used together with the DJI Fly software, which was introduced first in the Mavic Mini quadcopter.
You can locate the DJI Fly on the manufacturer website or in the app store.
How much does a DJI Mavic Air 2 cost?
At the time of writing this review, the basic package costs 799 dollars. There is also a Fly More combo, which costs 988 dollars. You can check the current Air 2 drone price by clicking on the button below.
Conclusion
Just as you thought Mavic Mini is the most amazing small drone out there, DJI has raised the stakes with the Mavic Air 2, which sits comfortably among that model as well as both prosumer Mavic 2 drones.
There is no doubt that the Air 2 is an excellent drone. Like with DJI’s all products, it hovers like a champion, has long flight time, and includes a bunch of great features.
It undoubtedly sets a fresh benchmark to what we may expect with DJI drones down the road.
For most of you thinking of entering the drone space, our first option would yet be the small DJI Mavic Mini.
However, if you ought to up the game and also take a few of the top footage and photos you have ever seen arrive from a drone, in that case, Air 2 is the product to get now.
While we are desperate to try out all the features of Mavic Air 2 before we post our DJI Mavic Air 2 Review, we have been satisfied with what we have seen up to now.
Stay tuned to more updates!