DJI Spark vs DJI Mavic: Worth to “downgrade”

Portability vs High-End features

DJI Spark vs DJI Mavic side by side

Last week, most of the drone related publications were invaded with the leaked images of the DJI Spark drone.

DJI’s new drone is also called by the enthusiasts the “Mavic Mini”.

With Yuneec Breeze and other compact portable drones sold under $500, this new DJI quadcopter has to be priced at a similar level in order for them to cover this market segment too. Frankly, I’m very exited about this new model because is the first DJI drone close to my budget (for such a gadget).

DJI Spark promotionDefinitely, due to its smaller size, the DJI Spark will offer much more portability but less top notch features over the Mavic Pro.

The Spark’s brushless motors are very similar to Mavic’s ones but they are slightly smaller.

Unfortunately, regarding the transmitter and control range there is nothing leaked out, yet. Either DJI is keeping this part secret or the Spark will be controlled through a smartphone APP (which means short flight range).

Comparison chart between the DJI Spark and DJI Mavic

Model Name DJI Spark / DJI MM1A DJI Mavic
Foldable design No Yes
Remote controller Yes (optional) Yes 
Flight battery 3s 1480mAh 3s 3830mAh
Camera gimbal  2-axis 3-axis 
Camera resolution 1920×1080@30p UHD 4K@30fps (3840 x 2160)
Real-time image transmission HD 720P HD  720P
Max flight time Up to 16 minutes Up to 12 minutes
Intelligent flight mode  Yes (QuickShot, ActiveTrack, TapFly and Gesture) Yes
Obstacle avoidance and Positioning system 3D sensing system (0.2 – 5m) Infrared positioning sensors
Brushless motors Yes Yes
Dimensions 143mm (L) x 143mm (W) x 55mm (H) 83mm x 83mm x 198mm (folded)

The table above is not final and it will be was updated today (24.05.2017) after DJI has made the official announcement of their Spark drone. Note: only the “Combo” package contain a physical remote controller.

DJI Spark drone

DJI Spark gimbal test and LED lights

After the official announcement and the complete list of features, I can say that the Spark is a completely different concept comparted to the Mavic Pro. The Spark is more a toy (OK, a expensive one) than a professional long range cruising drone.

The video/photo capability of the Spark is worse than the Mavic Pro has. While Mavic allows to record videos with UHD (4K) resolution the Spark can record only FHD (1080p) videos.

Last update on 24.05.2107

Meet Spark, a mini drone that features all of DJI’s signature technologies, allowing you to seize the moment whenever you feel inspired. With intelligent flight control options, a mechanical gimbal, and a camera with incredible image quality, Spark empowers you to push your creative boundaries.

9 COMMENTS

  1. Just receive it! It’s not a joke that the DJI Spark is as small as a can of Cola! But still love more my Mavic Pro, it has much more power and flight range.

  2. Way too little real information, way too much marketing for me to trust these new high-tech drones for truly professional applications.
    This DJI Spark will be good for all but truly for nothing….

  3. DJI website now offering several refurbished Drone, all are tax included and Free shipping from their own website. Probably this way you will find the DJI Spark for its half price.

  4. Cool, thanks for your updated information about the Spark drone! The drones from DJI are the most reliable over all drone brand!
    I still consider that the DJI Mavic Pro is the best portable quadcopter with 4K camera, which is agreed from many reviewers!
    Hopefully the DJI Spark will be at least good as its predecessor.

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