Which better to buy Air 2 or Mini 2?
- Thread starter azould
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bmwbob
Well-Known Member
TheDude
Active Member
I believe there's more to the decision than purely money and specs. I was in the same boat and labored over the decision as well. Money was not a deciding factor, and I even had discounts that would narrow the price between the two by less than $200.
What it came down to for me was the conspicuity. I like to fly in both urban and beautiful public nature areas. I highly value not disturbing others' experience when outdoors or at their homes, so it was more important to me to not infringe on others with a larger and louder drone, and worth losing the few advantages that the larger Air 2 have over the Mini 2. Strange concept, I know. I also hike, mountain bike and gravel cycle, so overall system weight and size was a big factor, as I'd like to take it with me on longer rides.
From personal experience before getting into drones, I'd been on hikes in the past and been annoyed as hell by someone flying low over the trails for over an hour. It was cool at first, but became like a splinter in my ear I couldn't unhear the entire time they were flying, which really put a damper on my limited time outdoors. I was not alone on this, as others on the trail started getting annoyed and even paranoid, fearing their picture was being taken by some "nefarious" unknown entity. (We have to keep in mind this is how a lot of the general public view drones).
So although they are fascinating and cool to me now, I have to keep this experience in mind and realize nearly everyone out enjoying nature is not going to be pleased by hearing and seeing a loud and large drone. And the last thing the hobby needs is more of the general public hating drones. Thus, I chose the Mini 2 which has been hardly noticeable once high in the sky. I also make an effort to launch and fly as far away from others as possible, but realize I will probably still annoy someone if I'm staying in the same area for a long time, so I try to move around. It's a personal feeling, but I get more enjoyment and less stress flying when I know I'm more inconspicuous and less likely to bother others or be approached by an angered redneck or Karen.
The second most common argument for the Air 2 seems to be the camera. To me it's a moot point, as even in side-by-side comparisons there is not a massive difference. I'm not shooting videos for Hollywood. 99.9% of people watching my videos (that are going to be compressed/degraded by whatever site you're sharing them on, by the way) are not going to be pausing and pixel-peeping by zooming in 400% to assess the image quality. Content and editing trump the minute image differences. So then you have to weigh the other advantages like a supposed wind advantage, sensors, hyperlapse and active tracking, which are all legitimate reasons to go Air 2 if you need/want those. Again, for me they didn't outweigh the conspicuity and portability. Either way, you're getting a great drone no matter which you choose!
I found this other thread really interesting, as it's also one of the few comparisons where I've seen someone that is not "campy" (aka, staunch purchase decision loyalty) and a realist compare the two after switching to the Air 2.
Again, either way you're going to have a great time!
mavicpilots.com
What it came down to for me was the conspicuity. I like to fly in both urban and beautiful public nature areas. I highly value not disturbing others' experience when outdoors or at their homes, so it was more important to me to not infringe on others with a larger and louder drone, and worth losing the few advantages that the larger Air 2 have over the Mini 2. Strange concept, I know. I also hike, mountain bike and gravel cycle, so overall system weight and size was a big factor, as I'd like to take it with me on longer rides.
From personal experience before getting into drones, I'd been on hikes in the past and been annoyed as hell by someone flying low over the trails for over an hour. It was cool at first, but became like a splinter in my ear I couldn't unhear the entire time they were flying, which really put a damper on my limited time outdoors. I was not alone on this, as others on the trail started getting annoyed and even paranoid, fearing their picture was being taken by some "nefarious" unknown entity. (We have to keep in mind this is how a lot of the general public view drones).
So although they are fascinating and cool to me now, I have to keep this experience in mind and realize nearly everyone out enjoying nature is not going to be pleased by hearing and seeing a loud and large drone. And the last thing the hobby needs is more of the general public hating drones. Thus, I chose the Mini 2 which has been hardly noticeable once high in the sky. I also make an effort to launch and fly as far away from others as possible, but realize I will probably still annoy someone if I'm staying in the same area for a long time, so I try to move around. It's a personal feeling, but I get more enjoyment and less stress flying when I know I'm more inconspicuous and less likely to bother others or be approached by an angered redneck or Karen.
The second most common argument for the Air 2 seems to be the camera. To me it's a moot point, as even in side-by-side comparisons there is not a massive difference. I'm not shooting videos for Hollywood. 99.9% of people watching my videos (that are going to be compressed/degraded by whatever site you're sharing them on, by the way) are not going to be pausing and pixel-peeping by zooming in 400% to assess the image quality. Content and editing trump the minute image differences. So then you have to weigh the other advantages like a supposed wind advantage, sensors, hyperlapse and active tracking, which are all legitimate reasons to go Air 2 if you need/want those. Again, for me they didn't outweigh the conspicuity and portability. Either way, you're getting a great drone no matter which you choose!
I found this other thread really interesting, as it's also one of the few comparisons where I've seen someone that is not "campy" (aka, staunch purchase decision loyalty) and a realist compare the two after switching to the Air 2.
Again, either way you're going to have a great time!
Findings after returning Mini 2 for Air 2, Amateur Comparison.
Preparing for a trip to the mountains this month I purchased a Mini 2 on 12/1/20. After flying it for several days and getting some good footage I realized how much I enjoyed this drone and began looking at other DJI products. I found the Air 2 decided that the better camera, Focus Track Modes...
mavicpilots.com
Last edited:
I currently fly both after purchasing the mini 2 just before christmas.
The MA2 def has better features even though it uses the same app, many more photo options, the photo quality is better and the sphere panoramas are amazing!
That said with the new regulations the mini 2 helps with some of the restrictions if you have the necessary qualifications
The MA2 def has better features even though it uses the same app, many more photo options, the photo quality is better and the sphere panoramas are amazing!
That said with the new regulations the mini 2 helps with some of the restrictions if you have the necessary qualifications
Bobell69
Well-Known Member
I look at it from the perspective of existing and incoming regulations which have a greater negative impact on drones 250g and above. If you come up here to Canada you won't be able to fly your Air 2, but you will be able to Fly a mini. Rule changes in the UK look like they are going to be similar. So if you plan on doing a lot of travelling, there is no question the mini would be a best option.I believe there's more to the decision than purely money and specs. I was in the same boat and labored over the decision as well. Money was not a deciding factor, and I even had discounts that would narrow the price between the two by less than $200.
What it came down to for me was the conspicuity. I like to fly in both urban and beautiful public nature areas. I highly value not disturbing others' experience when outdoors or at their homes, so it was more important to me to not infringe on others with a larger and louder drone, and worth losing the few advantages that the larger Air 2 have over the Mini 2. Strange concept, I know. I also hike, mountain bike and gravel cycle, so overall system weight and size was a big factor, as I'd like to take it with me on longer rides.
From personal experience before getting into drones, I'd been on hikes in the past and been annoyed as hell by someone flying low over the trails for over an hour. It was cool at first, but became like a splinter in my ear I couldn't unhear the entire time they were flying, which really put a damper on my limited time outdoors. I was not alone on this, as others on the trail started getting annoyed and even paranoid, fearing their picture was being taken by some "nefarious" unknown entity. (We have to keep in mind this is how a lot of the general public view drones).
So although they are fascinating and cool to me now, I have to keep this experience in mind and realize nearly everyone out enjoying nature is not going to be pleased by hearing and seeing a loud and large drone. And the last thing the hobby needs is more of the general public hating drones. Thus, I chose the Mini 2 which has been hardly noticeable once high in the sky. I also make an effort to launch and fly as far away from others as possible, but realize I will probably still annoy someone if I'm staying in the same area for a long time, so I try to move around. It's a personal feeling, but I get more enjoyment and less stress flying when I know I'm more inconspicuous and less likely to bother others or be approached by an angered redneck or Karen.
The second most common argument for the Air 2 seems to be the camera. To me it's a moot point, as even in side-by-side comparisons there is not a massive difference. I'm not shooting videos for Hollywood. 99.9% of people watching my videos (that are going to be compressed/degraded by whatever site you're sharing them on, by the way) are not going to be pausing and pixel-peeping by zooming in 400% to assess the image quality. Content and editing trump the minute image differences. So then you have to weigh the other advantages like a supposed wind advantage, sensors, hyperlapse and active tracking, which are all legitimate reasons to go Air 2 if you need/want those. Again, for me they didn't outweigh the conspicuity and portability. Either way, you're getting a great drone no matter which you choose!
I found this other thread really interesting, as it's also one of the few comparisons where I've seen someone that is not "campy" (aka, staunch purchase decision loyalty) and a realist compare the two after switching to the Air 2.
Again, either way you're going to have a great time!
Findings after returning Mini 2 for Air 2, Amateur Comparison.
Preparing for a trip to the mountains this month I purchased a Mini 2 on 12/1/20. After flying it for several days and getting some good footage I realized how much I enjoyed this drone and began looking at other DJI products. I found the Air 2 decided that the better camera, Focus Track Modes...
It depends what you want to use it for and budget. My case, I could’ve went down the path of Mavic Pro 2 or Phantom Pro 4 (that was my maximum in budget) but as a first time drone pilot was going to get the Air 2 however went for the Mini 2, for size and cost (less pain if I crash/lose it) and don’t need to register it (unless I use it for commercial purposes).
It might have less features and image quality isn’t as good as the Air 2, but it is like any drone where the other is more superior than the other.
It might have less features and image quality isn’t as good as the Air 2, but it is like any drone where the other is more superior than the other.
@azould without knowing what your countries ,regs are regarding drones ,then its not easy to give advice ,
in the UK and many other places ,it seems that the Mini2 has the edge ,as it has the least restrictions ,and can be flown with very little extra cost from added flyer qualifications,,find out what rules you need to follow and then base your decision on the outcome
in the UK and many other places ,it seems that the Mini2 has the edge ,as it has the least restrictions ,and can be flown with very little extra cost from added flyer qualifications,,find out what rules you need to follow and then base your decision on the outcome
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MA2 Fly more combo. Game/set/match.
Jet skier
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One of my few new year thoughts is to not read anything more if the word”mini”is visible. This thread caught my eye when I saw “Air2”, which is certainly the better of the two.
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The Air 2 is our pick for the drone of the decade.
The Mini 2 can keep anyone entertained but the Air 2 is always going to exceed your expectations .
We put a lot of love into the Air 2 so it can fly in the Rain and Land on Water and made it fearless.
The Ability to use it with the Smart Controller alone with other Pro Drones was a game changer also.
Phantomrain.org
Gear to fly your Air 2 In the Rain and Land on Water
The Mini 2 can keep anyone entertained but the Air 2 is always going to exceed your expectations .
We put a lot of love into the Air 2 so it can fly in the Rain and Land on Water and made it fearless.
The Ability to use it with the Smart Controller alone with other Pro Drones was a game changer also.
Phantomrain.org
Gear to fly your Air 2 In the Rain and Land on Water
Is the mini really quieter then the air 2. I know some of the smaller drones of the past were quite loud?
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The Air 2 tone is easier on the ears , and now you can get the Master Screw Props which make it even nicer and according to the Website offer other benefits as well. We just ordered these to go with the Air 2 Wet Suits , cant wait.
These are new , they just came out.
Phantomrain.org
Gear to fly your Air 2 in the Rain and land on Water.
Coal
Last edited:
Thanks Coal!
Definitely eyeballing the airscrews! Between super high altitude flights and not wanting to be intrusive, they sound GREAT, I mean quieter . . . ! Love to hear your impressions when you get them, please let us know!
Definitely eyeballing the airscrews! Between super high altitude flights and not wanting to be intrusive, they sound GREAT, I mean quieter . . . ! Love to hear your impressions when you get them, please let us know!
I like your thought process. Every decision in life is a personal choice. I couldn't afford the MA2 right now. I got my first drone ever on 12/30, the Mini 2. Had my maiden flight yesterday, it was rock solid. Very quiet which suits me for the reasons you stated. I can throw the whole case into my badlands hunting back pack and take it anywhere easily on my boat, wheeler, hiking. It is a stealthy little thing and for me for a first drone it takes fine pictures and video with default settings and I'm sure they will get better with time.I believe there's more to the decision than purely money and specs. I was in the same boat and labored over the decision as well. Money was not a deciding factor, and I even had discounts that would narrow the price between the two by less than $200.
What it came down to for me was the conspicuity. I like to fly in both urban and beautiful public nature areas. I highly value not disturbing others' experience when outdoors or at their homes, so it was more important to me to not infringe on others with a larger and louder drone, and worth losing the few advantages that the larger Air 2 have over the Mini 2. Strange concept, I know. I also hike, mountain bike and gravel cycle, so overall system weight and size was a big factor, as I'd like to take it with me on longer rides.
From personal experience before getting into drones, I'd been on hikes in the past and been annoyed as hell by someone flying low over the trails for over an hour. It was cool at first, but became like a splinter in my ear I couldn't unhear the entire time they were flying, which really put a damper on my limited time outdoors. I was not alone on this, as others on the trail started getting annoyed and even paranoid, fearing their picture was being taken by some "nefarious" unknown entity. (We have to keep in mind this is how a lot of the general public view drones).
So although they are fascinating and cool to me now, I have to keep this experience in mind and realize nearly everyone out enjoying nature is not going to be pleased by hearing and seeing a loud and large drone. And the last thing the hobby needs is more of the general public hating drones. Thus, I chose the Mini 2 which has been hardly noticeable once high in the sky. I also make an effort to launch and fly as far away from others as possible, but realize I will probably still annoy someone if I'm staying in the same area for a long time, so I try to move around. It's a personal feeling, but I get more enjoyment and less stress flying when I know I'm more inconspicuous and less likely to bother others or be approached by an angered redneck or Karen.
The second most common argument for the Air 2 seems to be the camera. To me it's a moot point, as even in side-by-side comparisons there is not a massive difference. I'm not shooting videos for Hollywood. 99.9% of people watching my videos (that are going to be compressed/degraded by whatever site you're sharing them on, by the way) are not going to be pausing and pixel-peeping by zooming in 400% to assess the image quality. Content and editing trump the minute image differences. So then you have to weigh the other advantages like a supposed wind advantage, sensors, hyperlapse and active tracking, which are all legitimate reasons to go Air 2 if you need/want those. Again, for me they didn't outweigh the conspicuity and portability. Either way, you're getting a great drone no matter which you choose!
I found this other thread really interesting, as it's also one of the few comparisons where I've seen someone that is not "campy" (aka, staunch purchase decision loyalty) and a realist compare the two after switching to the Air 2.
Again, either way you're going to have a great time!
Findings after returning Mini 2 for Air 2, Amateur Comparison.
Preparing for a trip to the mountains this month I purchased a Mini 2 on 12/1/20. After flying it for several days and getting some good footage I realized how much I enjoyed this drone and began looking at other DJI products. I found the Air 2 decided that the better camera, Focus Track Modes...
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