So, you’ve caught the drone bug and you’re eyeing the DJI Mavic 3 series. But hey, before you take the plunge, let’s dive into the details, because choosing the right drone is no small decision.
| Feature | DJI Mavic 3 | DJI Mavic 3 Classic | DJI Mavic 3 Cine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Camera | Main Camera: 4/3 inch CMOS Hasselblad camera, 20MP, 5.1K resolution - Tele Camera: ½ inch CMOS, 12MP, 4K resolution | 4/3 inch CMOS Hasselblad camera, 20MP, 5.1K resolution (single camera) | Main Camera: 4/3 inch CMOS Hasselblad camera, 20MP, 5.1K resolution - Tele Camera: ½ inch CMOS, 12MP, 4K resolution |
| Flight Time | 46 minutes | 46 minutes | N/A (similar to Mavic 3) |
| Digital Zoom | Main Camera: 3x - Tele Camera: 4x | 3x | Main Camera: 3x - Tele Camera: 4x |
| Obstacle Avoidance | Omnidirectional obstacle sensing | Omnidirectional obstacle sensing | Omnidirectional obstacle sensing |
| Video Transmission | O3+ | O3+ | O3+ |
| Range (Video Transmission) | 15km | 15km | 15km |
| Internal Storage | 8GB | 8GB | 1TB |
Mavic 3 vs. Mavic 3 Classic: Spotting The Differences
The DJI Mavic 3 and Mavic 3 Classic are both enticing options, but what sets them apart? Well, besides the price tag, there’s one key difference: the Mavic 3 Classic skips out on the telephoto camera that the Mavic 3 boasts. But wait, there’s more to uncover here.
DJI Mavic 3
Let’s kick things off with the DJI Mavic 3. This beauty graced the scene in November 2021, following the Mavic 2 Pro’s release in 2018. Fans had been eagerly awaiting this successor, and the three-year wait was worth it.
Camera Sensor
What stirred the excitement was the Mavic 3’s dual-camera setup. It houses a 4/3 inch CMOS Hasselblad camera and a ½ inch CMOS Tele camera. The primary camera can capture breathtaking 5.1K video at 50 fps and 20MP photos.
The standout feature? The large sensor that works wonders in low light and enhances dynamic range. This drone marked a milestone by packing such a substantial sensor into a compact frame.
Zoom Lens
Now, here’s where the Mavic 3 truly shines: zoom capabilities. With its Tele camera offering up to 28x digital zoom, this drone can capture distant marvels. Just remember, the more you zoom digitally, the more you compromise image quality. At 4x zoom, you’re using the ½ inch camera sensor, and quality takes a dip. So, it’s perfect for casual shooting but not your go-to for pro-grade commercial work.
Upgraded Video Transmission
The Mavic 3 also introduced the O3+ video transmission system, guaranteeing 1080p quality live video feed on your controller, even over long distances and tricky terrains. Plus, it ships with the RC-N1 controller, the same one you get with the Mini 3.
Flight Time
Flight time is another talking point. It promises an impressive 46 minutes, 15 minutes more than the Mavic 2 Pro. Of course, real-world conditions influence flight time, but it’s a significant improvement.
Pricing
The Mavic 3 comes in at $$$$ USD without the fly more combo, but if you want the full package, it’ll set you back $$$$ USD. It’s not exactly pocket change, but it’s still under $2000.
DJI Mavic 3 Classic
Now, let’s talk about the Mavic 3 Classic. Released in November 2022, it was DJI’s push to entice Mavic 2 Pro users to upgrade.
Camera
The Mavic 3 Classic features a single 4/3 inch CMOS sensor Hasselblad camera, identical to the Mavic 3’s primary camera. It offers 5.1K video at 50fps and 20MP photos. The major difference? Zoom. The Mavic 3 Classic only digitally zooms 3x, whereas the Mavic 3 offers a whopping 28x digital zoom.
Design
Design-wise, the Mavic 3 Classic closely resembles the Mavic 3, retaining a longer flight time, the same video transmission, and obstacle avoidance system. However, purchasing options differ. With the Mavic 3 Classic, you can’t snag a fly more combo; you need to buy the drone and controller separately.
Pricing
At the time of writing, the Mavic 3 Classic starts at $$$$ USD for just the drone, $$$$ USD for the drone and the RC-N1 controller, and $$$$ USD for the version with the DJI RC controller. If you opt for the fly more kit, that adds another $$$ USD.
Comparing The Essentials
Let’s lay out the essentials of both drones side by side: You can check this detailed comparison table here: Mavic 3 vs Mavic 3 Classic vs Mavic 3 Cine
The Mavic 3 Cine: For The Pros
Now, what if neither the Mavic 3 nor the Mavic 3 Classic quite fits the bill? Enter the Mavic 3 Cine, an even more professional option.
This drone is essentially the Mavic 3 but with Apple ProRes 422 HQ as a video recording format, a codec favored in high-end productions. It also packs a substantial 1TB of internal storage, perfect for storing those larger ProRes files.
Bear in mind that the cine version weighs a tad more at 899g. To get your hands on it, you’ll need to opt for the Mavic 3 Cine Premium Combo, which includes the DJI RC Pro controller with a built-in screen. The price tag? A hefty $$$$ USD.
The Final Decision: Mavic 3 Classic vs Mavic 3 vs Mavic 3 Cine
So, which Mavic 3 drone should you choose? It boils down to your priorities.
If zoom capabilities are your jam, the Mavic 3 is your best bet. If you’re budget-conscious and don’t see yourself needing extensive zoom, the Mavic 3 Classic offers almost everything the Mavic 3 does at a friendlier price point.
And if budget isn’t a concern and you want the cream of the crop, the Mavic 3 Cine is tailor-made for you.
No matter which path you take, rest assured you’re getting a reliable workhorse with any version of the Mavic 3. Happy droning!