DJI Mavic Mini review: Your Everyday FlyCam!

Mavic Arya: Fly As You Are!

DJI Mavic Mini review

After countless of rumors and speculation, the DJI Mavic Mini was finally revealed officially on 30th of October. FirstQuadcotper is between the first drone review blogs which had the luck to receive the Mavic Arya for an in-depth analysis. Every new DJI drone comes with its own slogan, the smallest member of the Mavic series has ‘Fly as you are’ – let’s find out the sense of these words.

Over the last few years, I reviewed more than 100 drones from various brands but, by far, the best were from DJI. To be honest, they were the most expensive ones too, so, in order to beat this fact, the Mavic Mini comes with a very competitive price. Advertised for only $399, it is not just the cheapest but also the smallest and lightest drone from DJI. The Mini mixes the friendly price tag of the retired Spark with the practical foldable design of the Mavic series into a size of a iPhone XS.

DJI Mavic Mini Arya review: Intro

Mavic Mini Arya highlights

  • Super compact folded size (130 × 80 × 60mm);
  • Ultra lightweight (249 grams);
  • Up to 30 minutes flight time;
  • Long range Enhanced WiFi transmission (4Km-FCC or 2KM-CE);
  • 720p@30fps FPV with up to 4 Mbps (170-240 ms latency);
  • Stable hover (GPS&GLONASS + Downward Sensors);
  • 3 type of flight modes (CineSmooth, Position and Sport);
  • QuickShots (Dronie, Rocket, Circle and Helix);
  • 12MP camera with 1/2.3″ CMOS sensor and 2.7K video recording;
  • 3-axis mechanical stabilization.

Hands on: Mavic Mini review

Disclosure: I received this pocket flycam drone as part of a product review collaboration with DJI. Product specs and quality may vary according to the manufacturer’s reliability, so I cannot guarantee that you will get a product that performs exactly the same as seen in my article. As I received an early release test unit, package content may also vary.

DJI Mavic Mini Arya review: Unboxing

I got the package two days before its official reveal – which was a big honor – and I need to thank DJI for the opportunity to make this prime-time review.

Being very enthusiastic, I immediately unwrapped the package and I happily found out that I got “Fly more combo” version with the following accessories included: 3 batteries, charging dock, transmitter, 360° blades guard, 3 pair of spare props, USB cables, gimbal protector and travel case.

At a glance

After 3 years of flying with a Phantom 3 Advanced, I was pretty impressed by the size of the DJI Mavic Mini – it is damn small! (especially that both have cameras with similar specs).

DJI Mavic Mini Arya review: VS Phantom series

When folded up, the Mavic Mini’s footprint is just slightly larger than a smartphone. It measures roughly 13 × 8 × 6 cm and weights 249 grams. Just by compassion, its bigger brother – the Mavic Air – has 430 grams and 16.8 × 8.3 × 4.9 cm. As far as I know, FAA has a relaxed regulation for under 250 gr. class drones – actually many countries are much permissive with lightweight flying machines.

I already mentioned about the “Fly as you are” slogan but, actually, I think it would fit also: “Fly wherever you are” as well. The Mavic Mini is a super backpack friendly drone, you can take it with you everywhere and shutting videos, regardless of your traveling destination, hiking or you just having a walk in the nearest park. Note: Always fly responsibly, without putting in danger any living being – including you!

DJI Mavic Mini Arya review: Design

In terms of design, the front of the MM reminds me about the head of a shark. Instead of frightening teeth it has a tiny 3-axis camera. Before you are getting too enthusiastic, those fake eyes are not obstacle avoidance sensors, they are just part of the design. You know, in order to make it as light as possible, you can’t fit inside all the technology available – especially when the budget is a quarter of Mavic 2’s price.

On the belly, besides the power switch and battery level indicator, there are two vision positioning TOF sensors. Those tiny cameras allow stable hovering for indoor environment or out of GPS coverage. USB port and micro SD slot are found under the battery bay’s flap.

DJI Mavic Mini Arya review: TOF sensors

With only one LED light on back, it will be hard to find it during night flights.

Mavic Mini review: Camera

Although we all expected from a 2020 drone to feature 4K resolution, the Mavic Mini comes with only 2.7K. IMHO, DJI did’t wanted to cannibalize the Mavic Pro’s market segment, this is why they limited the video resolution. Also, it features 720P WiFi video transmission instead of the more reliable OcuSync. Anyway, even 1080P satisfies most consumers’ image quality needs for social media sharing and personal archive. Don’t mention that 2.7K videos require less storage space and CPU power for post-editing than 4K ones. But who knows, maybe like in case of the P3A, which initially had 1080P and trough a firmware upgrade received 2.7K, the MiNI could receive a 4K upgrade in the future.

DJI Mavic Mini Arya review: Camera

Despite its small size, the camera has 3-axis mechanical stabilization – which is a significant improvement compared to Smark’s 2-axis gimbal. The DJI Mavic MINI’s camera features 1/2.3 CMOS image sensor with 12M effective pixels.

Sample videos & photos will be added later!

Mavic Mini review: Transmitter

The MINI is packed with a similar entry-level remote like the Mavic Air. While FCC version has a range of 2.5 miles/4 Km, the CE compliant has only 2 Km. Yes, in US it is not just cheaper but flies further too :D.

As it is designed to be used in tandem with a smartphone, it does not have a status screen, nor FPV monitor. Your phone needs to be linked to the RC through one of the 3 types of included USB cables (Lightning, Micro and Type-C). The phone holder in the bottom folds down alongside the antenna on the top. In order to fit better into your pocket, the control sticks are detachable and can be stowed away in the bottom. Don’t worry if you loose them, one pair of spare stick-ends are included.

DJI Mavic Mini Arya review: Transmitter

On front panel, besides the control sticks and changing level indicators, there are only two control buttons: left one enables auto return to home and right one turns on/off the transmitter.

While the left shoulder button allows to start/stop video recording, the right one takes still photos. On back, under the recording button there is a dial knob which allows to remotely change the camera’s tilt angle.

DJI Fly – GO Lite app

Mavic Mini is operated on a brand new more user friendly APP. With redesigned layout, the live view (FPV) area is now 20% bigger comparing to the DJI GO 4 app, making newbie pilots’ flying experience much more intuitive.

Mavic Mini Arya review: APP

Besides real-time flight telemetry, live-view, camera control and social media share, the APP has 3 extra features: Creator Templates + QuickShots, Video Editor and Flight tutorials. I suggest you to go through the flight tutorials prior to your flights and only after that learn about how to edit your footage.

By default safety settings are set to 120m max altitude and 2000m max flight distance. Auto return to home altitude is set to 30 meters.

QuickShots

Automated flight modes, known as “QuickShot” mode, allows you to capture professional-looking videos automatically. Pilots can choose from Rocket, Dronie, Circle and Helix camera moves in order to make creative aerial videos.

  • In “Rocket” mode, the Mavic Mini flies autonomously straight up while keeps the desired subject in frame.
  • The “Dronie” mode allows you to create the ultimate selfies. In a nutshell, the drone flies up and away from you while keeping you in the shoot.
  • “Helix” mode is the enhanced version of the “Circle” or “Orbit” mode. In this mode, without the touch of control sticks, the Mavic Mini will rotate and rise autonomously around the point of interest.

Mavic Mini battery life: How long the fun lasts

The 2s/2400 mAh battery pack is loaded from the tail of the drone. According to its size, it looks like it uses two standard 18650 type LIPO cells.

For a super compact drone, it features an outstanding battery life – probably the best one in its market segment. According to DJI, a freshly charged battery provides up to 30 minutes of airborne time (measured while flying at 14 kph in windless conditions). Furthermore, the Combo pack includes 3 flight batteries, which allows close to 90 minutes of uninterrupted flying fun.

DJI Mavic Mini Arya review: Battery life

Thanks to the standard USB port, the battery can be conveniently charged with any normal or fast phone charger. You can refuel even on the field from a power-bank. The Combo’s two-charger allows to charge 3 batteries but not in the same time – they are charged one by one.

Based on my experience, drone LIPO’s need few flights till they work at maximum performance. After 5-10 cycles of charging I will do a real-world flight time test to check how the manufacturer’s specs are accurate or optimistic.

Price & availability

Starting with today, you can order the Mavic MINI from DJI online store. While the “Standard” edition is priced for $399 for US and €399 for Europe market, the “Combo” pack with extra accessories has a price of US$499 and EU€499, respectively.

What you get for extra 100 bucks? Difference between Standard & Combo pack

What’s Included Mavic Mini – The Everyday FlyCam Mavic Mini Fly More Combo
Aircraft 1 1
Remote controller 1 1
Flight battery 1 3
Pair of Spare Propellers 1 3
Micro USB Cable 1 2
Gimbal Protector 1 1
RC Cable (Micro USB connector) 1 1
RC Cable (USB-C connector) 1 1
RC Cable (Lightning connector) 1 1
Pair of Spare Control Sticks 1 1
Spare Screw 6 18
Screwdriver 1 1
360° Propeller Guard 1
Two-Way Charging Hub 1
DJI 18W USB Charger 1
Carrying Bag 1

DJI Mavic Mini Arya review: Accessories

Accessories – Pimp your Mavic Mini

While the Mavic Mini was just revealed officially today, you can already find some cool genuine, as well as third-party, accessories for it:

  • 360° Propeller Guard (included in Combo pack) – Safer flights for newbie pilots;
  • Two-Way Charging Hub (included in Combo pack) – Re-fuel up to 3 flight batteries in sequence;
  • Hand bag (included in Combo pack) – Carry easily with style;
  • DIY Creative Kit – Customize your Mavic Mini’s design. Kit includes shell stickers and colorful markers;
  • Illuminated glass charging base – Mavic Mini expo stand;
  • Snap Adapter – Use it with wide range of snap-in accessories;
  • Propeller holder – Secures and protects the propellers for safer storage and transportation.

One week with the DJI Manic Mini

What’s next?

In the following days, I will upload lots of sample videos captured with Mavic Mini, I will perform an in-depth test of each QuickShot modes. I will also test the Arya’s max FPV and control range.

DJI Mavic Mini Fly As You Are

REVIEW OVERVIEW
Price/performance ratio
Design and build quality
Transmitter
Camera
Battery life
Senior editor and co-founder of FirstQuadcopter.com. Everything started about 4 years ago when I purchased my first drone. I still own that Syma X5C . Since then I have had the luck to review and test more than 100 drones.
dji-mavic-mini-reviewOverall performance of the Mavic MINI is excellent when considering its price, size, design, and videos taken. This little drone is the absolute best option for size-conscious consumers with a tight budget. The MMini is a truly pocked-friendly drone in both senses. It is only a bit larger than a 6″ smartphone, and you don’t need to rob a bank for it. In addition to the excellent battery life, it offers enough beginner-friendly features, like 360° blade protector and QuickShot intelligent flight modes with the purpose of making it easy to use out of the box. <br> The GOOD<br> +Fairly priced;<br> +Incredibly compact and convenient to carry around;<br> +Less than 250 grams;<br> +Easy to fly out of the box;<br> +CineSmooth for super smooth aerials;<br> +QuickShot modes;<br> +3-axis mechanical stabilization;<br> +Standard micro USB charging port;<br> +Best flight time in its price tag.<br> <br> The BAD<br> -Only 30fps at 2.7K;<br> -No obstacle avoidance;<br> -WiFi transmission instead of OcuSync;<br> -Need to opt for Combo in order to get the most out of it;<br> -With only one LED light is not for night flights.<br>

126 COMMENTS

  1. Just wondering if is still the dji mini (gen1) a good drone, or should I look for the newer brothers? I’m on a tight budget….

    • Sorry Marvin for the late reply.
      Yes, if you are on a tight budget, the Mavic Mini 1, is still a great flying machine. The stabilized camera is decent, if you shout in FHD (1920×1080).

  2. When replacing props, is it suggested to use the lock nut liquid? What do you guys think? And do you use the original screws again or always new ones?

  3. I bought this from Costco. The Mavic Mini is my first drone, and I have to say I didn’t expect to have so much fun, and the videos are incredible!

  4. Hello everyone! I’m a beginner in the drone world I’ve recently purchased a Mavic Mini but I’m not sure if it’s the right one for me. I wanted something that can track me during outdoor sports activities. Any help on how to use the Mini for such a thing

  5. How often does everyone shoot in 24fps? What are the advantages over 25fps, 30, or even 60fps? I want to get the best out of this little drone…

  6. Just ordered my Mavic Mini, it was on sale and I do not need 4k. While waiting for it to arrive is there anything I should buy besides a micro SD card?

  7. I went to use my Mavic Mini ( after 3 months ) and it won’t turn on. I charged the batteries and still it won’t turn on … any suggestions? Is something wrong with the drone or the battery?
    Please help

    • Most likely the battery is damenage. Long term storage (without using) kell kill them, especially if they left fully charged.
      Using a multi-meter you could these The MINI’s battery voltage. If is below 6 volts, then is dead.

  8. I have bought my son the Mavic Mini for Christmas, he’s never flown a quadcopter before. Can you share any advice, top tips to get him started please, thank you!
    I also purchased the Care refresh package, do I need to activated now or after he unbox the drone?

    • Here is a pre-flight checklist that every new pilot should follow:
      – Register/Activate your Air 2 at Dji
      – Get and activate DJI Care Refresh within the first 48 hours
      – Calibrate the drone before fly ( Compass and IMU)
      – Download and install the latest firmware for the drone, remote, and batteries
      – Watch on YouTube many tutorials and follow the FAA rules
      – Check your drone and the environment where you fly it
      – Fly only in large fields
      – Never fly over people

      Merry Christmas!

  9. I’ve only been able to go about 100m up, and it loses signal and I can’t even 500meters horizontally because the signal is very weak…

  10. Has anyone successfully fixed their Mavic Mini “prop speed warning” by rolling back the firmware, and then updating it, through DJI Assistant? I got warnings on rear motors…

  11. What’s the difference between Ocusync and normal WIFI? Just the controller or also something inside the drone? Is it worth to wait for the MINI 2? It is possible to use the original Mavic Mini with the new transmitter?

    • Ocusync is DJI pro grad communication system, it used by the Phantom and Mavic Pro series. It allows up to 10KM range. ‘Standard WIFI’ is used by toyish drones like the Mavic Mini.

  12. I’m new to your blog.
    Question: Should I wait until November for a possible new release of the Mavic Mini 2 or should I get the actual Mavic Mini now? It will be my first drone

      • The Mini 2 is real! Just walked into a local Best Buy shop and they have already had it. I can confirm 4K camera, Ocusync 2 transmission, and Mavic Air 2 controller. They are unable to sell it yet. The street date is November 5, 2020.

    • I would recommend waiting for Mini 2. In the newer model, DJI added their OcuSync2.0 communication technology instead of “Enhanced WiFi”. This pro-grade communication will significantly improve both the max distance and reliability of the connection for longer ranges.

  13. I’m about the pull the trigger and buy one during the Amazon Prime sale, but some of the reviews I’ve read say that it won’t fly if you are in a restricted zone. Does anyone have this issue?

  14. There’s a lot of speculation that DJI may officially release the Mavic Mini 2 in October.
    Do you have any confirmation of these rumors?

  15. Does the Mavic Mini have any other LED lights beside the power lights? Could it be flown at night without auxiliary lights?

    • No other LEDs expect battery level and rear indicators. The camera is useless at night (low light), so I don’t see the purpose of flying in the dark.

  16. Anyone facing range issues after new firmware update …
    Before I was able to fly 2km with ease and after the update, I couldn’t fly more than 1km (same flight field).

  17. Just received mine today. So far I love it. I kept my Phantom 4 as well. There’s just something about this little drone that’s fun to play. And the portability fits mine needs great. I travel a lot by bike. ActiveTrack would perfect in the new firmware.

    • The user manual says that the MM can stand up to 27km/h included gusts. Anything above that it is quite dangerous for the tiny motors!

  18. I am suddenly having issue with my Mavic Mini (gimbal error 40002). Any suggestion? I already contacted DJI support, but no replacement unit. I’m still in warranty period but not Care refresh subscription…

  19. What’s everyone’s opinions on video and photography quality of the Mavic Mini. Looking at getting one and would like owners responses..
    Thanks!

  20. I’m gonna get one for holyday where I don’t need the Pro 2′ quality. Obviously would be nice to have RAW but for only $399 the Mini Mavic is still a great drone.

  21. In Germany the weight limit of 250 grams does not really make a huge difference. You do not need to put your name and address on the quad, but still requires insurance.
    While drones under 250gr like the Mavic Mini can be flown alone, for 250g+ you need another person to watch the drone permanently!

  22. One of my friends is in Europe and he ordered a CE version of Mavic Mini. After he is back in USA it will be able to use it legally?

    • With 4KM range, FCC has stronger transmission so CE version should work in US. It is also possible that the MINI will switch between FCC and CE modes automatically based on your geo position.

  23. Just read, that in order to be in compliance with the Japan drone regulation the Mavic Mini has an even lighter version which weights just 199grams!!!!
    As the flight time is only 18-19 minutes looks like they have reduced the battery capacity to save weight.

  24. Thanks for your review!
    It looks like a nice toy, and might be a good intro drone for newbies, but don’t expect it to perform like its big brother (the Mavic 2 Pro)

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