DJI Smart Controller Review: Is The DJI Smart Controller Worth it?
Alright, folks, let’s cut to the chase and dive into whether the DJI RC controller is worth the investment. If you’re into drones, you’ve probably heard about the DJI Mini 3 Pro and its nifty controller. But is it really a game-changer? Stick around, and I’ll spill the beans.
Table of Contents:
DJI RC Controller – The Real Deal
So, what’s the deal with the DJI RC controller, and why should you even consider it? Let me break it down for you:
1. It’s All About Dedication
Sure, your smartphone is handy for a lot of things, but it comes with its fair share of issues when it comes to drone piloting. The DJI RC controller, on the other hand, is tailor-made for DJI drones, so you won’t have to fret about interference or incoming calls messing up your flight. Plus, it won’t hog your phone’s battery when you’re up in the air.
2. Say Goodbye to Screen Glare
Have you ever tried using your smartphone in bright sunlight or extreme heat? It’s a recipe for screen glare, overheating, and endless temperature warnings. The DJI RC controller won’t leave you squinting in frustration. It’s designed to withstand these conditions and ensure you can see what’s happening up there.
3. No More Cable Drama
We’ve all been there, fumbling with the wrong cable or forgetting it altogether. With the DJI RC, you just power it on, connect to your drone, and you’re ready to take off. No cable hassles, no fuss.
4. Customize Your Controls
Here’s where it gets interesting. The DJI RC controller boasts customizable buttons, C1 and C2, giving you greater flexibility during flights. Tweak them to fit your needs – whether it’s recentering the gimbal or any other function, you’re in control.
5. Ergonomics on Point
Unlike smartphones and tablets, the DJI RC controller is a breeze to handle. It’s lightweight and ergonomically designed, making your piloting experience a whole lot smoother. No more cumbersome setups and heavy gadgets to hold.
6. Extra Goodies
The DJI RC also offers some cool extras, like internal storage (although you’ll have only 2GB at your disposal) and an SD card slot for up to 256GB of storage. It even features an extra USB port for charging or connecting other devices, adding to its appeal.
The Catch with DJI RC Controller
Of course, nothing’s perfect, and the DJI RC controller is no exception. Here are a few drawbacks to keep in mind:
1. Battery Life
The DJI RC’s battery lasts around four hours, which is less than the RCN1’s six hours. If you’re planning a full day of flying, having both controllers handy is a smart move.
2. No Third-Party Apps
Unlike your smartphone, the DJI RC is designed exclusively for DJI’s apps. You can’t access the Play Store or App Store for other apps. So, if you rely on third-party apps for added functionality, your smartphone is still your best buddy.
3. Internet Access
While smartphones keep you connected to the latest maps, the DJI RC might not always have the freshest data, especially in new regions. That’s a potential downside if you’re globe-trotting with your drone.
4. Range Test
The DJI RC doesn’t have antennas like the RCN1, which raises questions about its range compared to the older model. In tests, the RCN usually outperformed the DJI RC, but the difference was marginal. Both controllers offer up to 3 miles of range, so it’s not a game-changer.
5. Compatibility Quirks
The DJI RC is compatible with the latest drone models, like the DJI Mini 3, Mini 3 Pro, Air 2S, Mavic 3, and more. But if you’re rocking an older model like the Mini 2 or Mini SE, you’ll need to stick with the RCN1.
6. Screen Size and Brightness
The DJI RC controller sports a 5.5-inch screen, which might feel small for some users. On the flip side, smartphones can go up to 7 inches, and the RCN1 can even be paired with a tablet for a 10-inch screen. So, size and brightness can be a consideration based on your needs.
7. Screen Resolution
Recording your screen? Well, the DJI RC controller records in 720p, even though it transmits video in 1080p. Smartphones can deliver better-quality footage when you record your screen, so this is something to keep in mind.
8. Missing Microphone
The DJI RC lacks a built-in microphone. If you want to narrate your flights, you’ll need to invest in a separate microphone. Smartphones usually come with built-in mics, making things a bit simpler for content creators.
9. Software Updates
With the DJI RC, you can’t manually push updates as you would with a smartphone. You’ll have to wait for DJI to release the latest firmware, which can be a waiting game.
The Verdict: Is The DJI Smart Controller Worth it?
Now, the big question: Is the DJI RC controller worth your hard-earned cash? The answer isn’t crystal clear, but here’s the scoop.
Despite its quirks and downsides, the DJI RC is still a worthwhile investment. Its dedicated design, ergonomic feel, and compatibility with most modern drones make it a solid choice. However, I’d recommend keeping your RCN1 or other controllers around for their unique advantages.
For the DJI Mini 3 and Mini 3 Pro, you can grab the DJI RC package and get the RCN1 separately. If you already own one of the compatible drones, getting the DJI RC might save you a few bucks – who knows when a new drone might come along that still plays nice with the DJI RC?
So, there you have it, folks – the DJI RC controller decoded. It’s not flawless, but it’s definitely a contender in the world of drone controllers. Make your choice wisely and soar to new heights!
See Also:
- Best Drone Controller
- Is The DJI RC Controller Worth It?
- How To Charge DJI Mini 3 Pro RC Controller?
- DJI RC Review
- Why is My Drone Not Responding to Controller
- DJI RC231 vs RC-n1
- DJI Motion Controller 2 vs 1
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- DJI Smart Controller vs RC Pro vs DJI rc vs DJI RC-N1
- DJI Avata Camera Settings
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- DJI Avata vs Mini 3 Pro
- Best DJI Mini 2 Compatible Phones
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