After lots of rumors, the new upgraded DJI Mini 2 will be officially released on November 4. While last year, till the launch event of the original Mavic Mini, everything was kept secret, photos, and specs of the MINI 2 was leaked weeks before the big day. Furthermore, many stores already have it in stock on the shelves, but without the possibility to sell it. First Quadcopter was between the first drone blogs that had access to a review unit. We were allowed to publish our Mavic Mini review only after the drone was revealed on DJI’s website. The embargo also included strict rules regarding social sharings (Instagram photos and YouTube videos).
The ‘MINI’ is DJI’s lightest and most compact travel-friendly drone. The weight of just 249 grams (0.54895 lb) places Mavic Mini in the lowest and safest weight class of camera drones, which in many countries may exempt it from certain regulations. For example, in the US and Canada, you can fly with drones under 250g for recreational purposes without the need to register your aircraft at FAA or CCA.
Many pre-release reviews say that, due to a lack of major improvements, the new MM should be called rather MINI 1.1 than 2. Personally, I don’t think they’re right. While the DJI MINI 2 share the design with its predecessor, it has some significant upgrades from the original Mavic Mini. Firstly, it comes with pro-grade OcuSync 2.0 transmission that not just doubles the range but also makes the video-transmission more reliable. Secondly, the new camera is capable to shot 4K@30fps videos and to take RAW photos.
DJI Mini 2 versus Mavic Mini in-depth comparison
In the table below I will try to compare the most important specs of both compact DJI drones. I highlighted with red where the new DJI MINI 2 excels and with green where the older Mavic Mini still shines.
| DJI MINI 2 | Mavic MINI | |
| Size | Folded: 138×81×58 mm Unfolded: 159×203×56 mm |
Folded: 140×82×57 mm Unfolded: 160×202×55 mm |
| Weight | 249 grams | 249 grams |
| Camera | 4K@30fps | 2.7K@30fps |
| Max bit rate | 100Mbps | 40Mbps |
| Photo mode | RAW + JPG | JPG |
| Gimbal | 3-axis | 3-axis |
| Digital Zoom | 4K: 2x, 2.7K: 3x and FHD: 4x | No |
| FPV | 720P | 720p |
| Communication | OcuSync 2.0 | WiFi |
| Range | 10KM for FCC and 6K for CE | 4Km for FCC and 2Km for CE |
| Wind resistance | 8.5-10.5 m/s (Level 5) | 8 m/s (Level 4) |
| Intelligent flight modes | Panorama, Hyperlapse, One Tap, and QuikShots (Circle, Dronie, Helix, Rocket, and Boomerang) | QuikShots (Circle, Dronie, Helix, and Rocket) |
| Active tracking | No | No |
| Obstacle avoidance | No | No |
| GPS Follow me | ? | No |
| Optical flow sensor | Yes | Yes |
| Geofence | Yes | Yes |
| Remote controller | New, Air 2 style (RC231) | Standard, old design (MR1SS5\MR1SD25) |
| Battery | 2s/2250 mAh | 2s/2400 mAh |
| Flight time | 31 minutes | 30 minutes |
| FAA registration | No | No |
| Release date | November 4, 2020 | October 30, 2019 |
| Regular price (Standard/Combo) | $449/$599 | $399/$499 |
Other Differences
By using slightly different motors, the DJI MINI 2 also promises better flight performance compared to the older Mavic MINI 1. It has better wind resistance (level 5 vs level 4) and 1 minute longer flight time. Curiously, the improved battery life is obtained by using a smaller capacity Li-ion pack (2250mAh vs 2400mAh). Another unique feature of the new Mavic MINI 2, is that you are able to transfer files from the drone to your computer wirelessly with up to 20MB/s.
QuickShot modes
As you can see in the table below, the MINI 2 comes with a new QuickShot mode called ‘Boomerang’. This creative mode gives you a 360 degree view but with an accelerated curve, just like a boomerang. Unfortunately, still, no ‘Asteroid’ mode as we expected.
| QuickShot | Dronie | Helix | Rocket | Circle | Boomerang |
| Mavic Mini 1 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Mavic Mini 2 | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Box content
It looks like DJI decided to pack the MINI 2 with a different set of accessories compared to the older Mavic Mini. For example, the M2 comes with a handy propeller holder that keeps the blades from turning outward and possibly getting damaged when you load the aircraft in the bag.
Both MINI generations have ‘Standard’ and ‘Fly more combo’ package options. As its name says, the “Fly more combo” is dedicated to those who need extended flight time – not just flying once in a month.
Bottom line: Worth to upgrade from Mavic Mini to DJI Mini 2?
Personally, I seriously think to sell my old MINI and buy the new Mini 2. I like the upgraded range and a better camera. Based on my calculations, this switch will cost me about 200 bucks at least. Second-hand drones are sold for about 50-60% of their store price.
Another aspect you should consider when you upgrade from MM1 to MM2 is the compatibility of the accessories you already own. First testimonials say that most of the accessories (excepting remote controller and batteries) are interchangeable across the two generations of MINIs.
In case you are looking for your first drone, without a blink, I would suggest you to buy the new DJI MINI. For the price difference of just $50, you will get lots of features (Better range, 4K recording, and RAW photo).
Last update on November 5, after official release.
I just want to ask if someone put extra light on the Mavic mini or mini 2?
Noob question. There are any decent 3rd party apps for use with my Mini 2 and Mini 1?
Just sold my Mavic Mini to a friend. Do you recommend buying the Mini 2 directly from DJI or through Amazon? Thanks.
I needed 4k so I sold my mm1 and got the mini 2 can’t wait to test it today
Like many here I also considering getting a Mavic mini or DJI mini 2. I have a question regarding the “no-fly zone”. Do both have the same limitations?
$110 difference is quite a lot! Is there going to be any discount for the Mini2 on Black Friday or Cyber Monday?
That’s it. I switched from MM1 to Mini 2… Hope it doesn’t disappoint…..
I was considering an upgrade to Dji Mini2 but once again I’m impressed by the quality of the Mavic Mini1. So I’ll stick to this drone for a while. I know all its issues and limitations. If you use it corectly is a great travel companion. Its 2.7k camera is perfect for most cases. Happy flying on Covidland!
For anyone comparing the MM1 to MM2, there’s a clear decision…DJI Mini 2 without a doubt! It will receive software updates for a longer time. It has a better camera (4k vs 2.7k). It has superior wind resistance. Lastly, when I flying the MM2 I didn’t have any lag in feed or loss of connection.
I bought my Mavic Mini on Amazon Prime day and got $100 off. I have until January to return it. Has anyone else brought their quad recently and thinking to return it to get the new DJI Mavic 2?
Totally newbie here. Is there a way to switch from Occusync to Wi-Fi on Mini 2? I flew today and after only 500meters I lost the signal.
Second question: Which is better, 2.4GHz, or 5.8 GHz, or dual-band?
You can’t switch from Ocusync to WiFi!
I don’t plan to upgrade from Mini 1 to Mini 2 but still a question. Are the batteries compatible? Anybody tried old batteries in Mini 2?
Just got the Dji Mini 2 but how do I use the zoom feature? APP has the same options as with the old Mavic Mini 1.
Those of you who have upgraded from mini 1 to mini 2. how do you think it performs wind problem?
I will buy the new MA2 as can not fly many days with the MM1 because of the wind … Hopefully it will have a better wind resistance
There are many samples on YouTube. Personally, I find the Mini 1 videos at least equivalent (or even slightly superior) to the Mini 2. It looks that the higher bitrate is useless after all.
If you own both, could you make a test for us? Fly the Mini 1 and Mini 2 from point A to point B in a populated area. You get less interference with the Mini 2 controller because of OcuSync communication?
After reading so many issues due to the latest APP update, I am starting to consider returning the Mavic Mini and purchasing the new DJI MINI 2. I really don’t want to end up in a situation where I could lose my investment due to their mistake…
What FPV goggles work with the Mini 2? If there is any.
The Quickshots on the DJI Mini 2 and Mavic Mini are only in 1080p resolution? So 4k and 2.7 are available only for regular shots?
So, DJi Mini 2 has a higher wind limit than the Mavic Mini 1? How it is possible? It uses different motors and props?
Does anyone know if DJI Mini 2 is available in-store in Hong Kong?
Anyone know if the DJI MINI 2’s range has been restricted in Europe or can you fly it the full range?
I will keep my MM1 (not worth to selling it) and buy the MINI 2, the latest DJI Fly app works on both drones?
Does it worth upgrading from Mavic Pro to Dji Mini 2? Is it using h265 compression?
DJI robbed us that bought the Mavic Mini a couple of months ago…Not fair to came up with the MINI2 that has just a few software enhancements…
Goodbye Mavic Mini. Hello Dji Mini 2
Damn! Just read that M2 Will be not compatible with DJI smart controller.
Any idea if mavic mini controller will work with dji mini 2?
It will not work, they are using a different communication protocol (WIFI vs OcuSync 2.0)
no offense, but kinda a stupid question as these two transmitters are using totally different communications
I’ve got the Mavic Mini last week and I just ordered the mini 2 hope it’s a game-changer!
Same here. I ordered mini 2 today for the better range! And yes 4k!
Skip both Mini’s and get a MAVIC AIR 2! It is a much better drone.
For money and what you get my opinion Mini1 is the best buy if the budget isn’t a problem than the new Mini2. But it’s only a small difference for the extra money.
How does the Panorama work? I miss this feature from my Mini…
Anyone who upgraded to the Dji Mini 2 has any thoughts on the difference with photos? Is it a lot better than the older Mavic Mini? Does it have a better low light performance (less grainy)? Love to see some examples. Thanks!
It’s the exact same crappy camera. Same tiny sensor. No low light improvement…
Good to know! Mavic mini batteries work in DJI Mini 2 but Mini 2 batteries won’t work in Mavic mini.
So, Does the M2 have follow me? Or not?
Will the batteries from my old Mavic mini 1 on the new Mavic mini 2?
Yes, it is one direction compatibility.
Just wondering do the Mini 2 have front facing sensors like the Air 2?
No frontal sensors!
No more Mavic Mini! Now its simply called Mini 2!
Should I buy the new Mini2 or the original Mavic Mini. Is the new Mini worth it? At DJI the price difference is about $50.
Great comparison. I was debating between the Mavic Mini 1 and the Mavic Mini 2. Now, everything is clear. Thank you
YEAAAHH BOY. I was there the minute it released. Now I’m happy owner of the new DJI MINI2. Maiden flight impressions tomorrow! In-depth review on my YT channel in a few days.
Hey folks. I bought the Mavic Mini 1 in August. Totally new to flying, but learn it fast. All this talk of 4k and everything else that is said about the new Mini 2 looks great but for me as I am not an expert at photography the 2.7k it is just fine.
Seen some YouTube videos that confirm filters for Mini 1 fits for the new Mini 2 as well.
November 4th is not a good choice for launching a new product. Everyone is concerned about the elections in the United States.
You have perfectly right. Now every one is focused on Trump and Biden, not on DJI’s MINI 2…
Here are the full technical specs of the MINI 2 camera:
– 3840×2160 – 4K UHD
– MP4 (H.264/MPEG-4 AVC) video codecs
– 12MP Still photo resolution
– JPG + RAW image formats
– Video formats:
– 4K Ultra HD 3840×2160 @ 24/25/30fps
– 2.7K 2720×1530 @ 24/25/30fps
– Full HD 1920×1080 @ 24/25/30/48/50fps
– Live video streaming
– ISO 100-3200 in Video & Photo
– 24mm equivalent focal length
– 4s – 1/8000s shutter speed
The question is if the Mavic Mini 2 has an upgraded motherboard and Image processor compared to the original MINI. If not, all ‘improvements’ are made by software enhancement.
less than 19 hours and all things will be made clear!
Awesome! First drone qualified for my girlfriend :D
Do you know the exact street day? I want to order a Mavic 2 Combo for Xmas.
Your girlfriend will love the DJI MINI2. It is super portable and versatile.
The street day is November 5, if you have luck you can get one before all are purchased…Stocks are limited at the beginning…