With the release of the DJI Mini SE, many have been wondering how it is different to the DJI Mavic Mini and which drone they should purchase as a first drone.
What exactly is the DJI Mini SE?
How do the specifications compare?
Both the DJI Mavic Mini and Mini SE use the same camera, which is a 2.7K 12 MP Sensor that is attached to a 3-axis stabilised camera. This is a very sturdy camera that allows the pilot to maintain buttery smooth footage even when the winds pick-up.
Speaking about wind, the Mavic Mini only had a wind resistance rating of Level 3 winds whereas the DJI Mini 2 had a rating of Level 5 Winds, which is significantly greater and solves the issue of drifting during winds with the Mavic Mini.
What hasn't changed is the controller and transmission range where the drone can fly up to 4km through enhanced WiFi. This system is not as reliable as OcuSync, but will provide plenty of range for short flights (which is recommended with the drone size).
The DJI Mini SE has also changed to be used with the DJI Mini 2 Batteries, instead of the DJI Mavic Mini batteries. These newer batteries are lighter and pack similar punch. This also means that you can potentially upgrade to the DJI Mini 2 in the future without having to buy completely new batteries.
Why
the DJI Mini SE over the Mavic Mini?
Two things immediately jump out as advantages which are the wind resistance and the price.
Level 5 wind resistance is a huge improvement over Level 3 and was one of the biggest selling points of the DJI Mini 2. It means you will be able to fly your drone during days of stronger winds and allows you to fly more often. The added benefit is that your drone will be better suited to handle stronger gusts of wind without drifting too far away.
The pricing of the DJI Mini SE is very competitive with the brand new prices sometimes being cheaper than second hand or clearance prices of the DJI Mavic Mini. The DJI Mini SE Combo retails for $619 whereas the Mavic Mini retailed for $799 with many places selling for $649 — $699.
You may be able to find second hand Mavic Mini for cheaper online, but you will miss out on DJI Manufacturers warranty AND the ability to purchase DJI Care Refresh, which is an absolutely must have for a drone like this.
How can I buy the DJI Mini SE?
You can purchase the DJI Mini SE from D1 Store either through their retail outlets or through their online store. D1 offers free shipping with the purchase of the DJI Mini SE and can provide bundle deals if any additional accessories or services were required with the drone.
Want to dive into the nitty gritty and see how things stack up in the spec sheet? Check out the table below to see how the Mini SE and Mini 2 compare when it comes to the numbers.
Specifications | DJI Mini SE | DJI Mini 2 |
Weight | < 249g | < 249g |
Max Flight Time | 30 minutes | 31 minutes |
Max Speed | 46 KM/h | 57 KM/h |
Camera Sensor | 1/2.3” CMOS | 1/2.3” CMOS |
Photo Performance | 12 MP | 12 MP |
Video Performance | 2.7K/30fps 1080p/60fps | 4K/30fps 2.7K/60fps |
Video Transmission | Enhanced Wi-Fi | OcuSync 2.0 |
Max Video Range | 4 KM | 10 KM |
Retail Price | $459 | $749 |
Fly More Combo Price | $619 | $949 |
What’s the same between each model?
The DJI Mini SE Fly More Combo comes with everything you need to begin your drone journey including multiple batteries for ample flying time, a convenient battery charging hub and more! Check out a breakdown of all the included extras below!
Design
If you look at the Mini 2 and Mini SE side by side, you probably
won’t notice the difference, but we won’t blame you, they do look pretty similar! But whilst they may share the same shell it's what’s on the inside that counts - their camera and flight performance is truly what sets them apart.
Accessory Support
One of our favourite similarities between the Mini SE and Mini 2 is their shared accessories. Despite being released at different times, almost all DJI and third-party Mini 2 accessories are backwards compatible
with the Mini SE drone, including Intelligent Flight Batteries , the convenient Two-Way Charging Hub, ultra-popular Propeller Guards and more!
What’s different?
Camera Performance
Perhaps the biggest difference between the Mini 2 and Mini SE is each drone’s camera performance. Both drones house a 1/2.3” CMOS sensor on a gimbal camera, however these cameras vary greatly when it comes to performance. The Mini 2’s sensor is powerful,
capable of capturing 4K video at up to 30fps, however the Mini SE’s camera caps out at 2.7K.
Flight Performance
Despite sharing the same design and propellers, the Mini 2 and Mini SE differ substantially when considering flight performance. In terms of flight speed, both the Mini SE and Mini 2 outperform other drones in their class, however with its stronger motors, the Mini 2 reaches a showstopping max speed of 57 KM/h in sports mode, compared to the 46
KM/h max speed of the Mini SE.
Another major difference between the Mini 2 and Mini SE is their image transmission systems. Whilst the Mini SE utilises an enhanced Wi-Fi signal to transmit video up to 4 KM, the Mini 2 takes full advantage of DJI’s proprietary OcuSync 2.0 technology, allowing for HD video transmission up to 10 KM away. What does this mean? The Mini 2 will fly further and more reliably than the Mini SE with video transmission that is more stable as well!
Remote
Controller
The final major difference between the two Mini drones is their respective remote controllers. The Mini SE shares the same controller as its predecessor, the DJI Mavic Mini, whilst the Mini 2 adopts the updated RC-N1 controller used by larger drones including DJI’s flagship Mavic 3! Whilst they perform similarly, the Mini 2’s RC-N1 is more ergonomic, durable and better for prolonged use.
Which Mini is for me?
If you’re approaching drones with a camera-first approach, the Mini 2 is the option for you! With support for 4K video and detailed 12MP stills, the Mini 2 provides everything you need to start capturing stunning aerial imagery for social media, clients and more!
If you’re just getting started or are shopping on a budget, the Mini SE is still an absolutely fantastic option that is popular with beginners and experienced pilots alike. It’s lightweight form factor makes it ideal for throwing into your backpack for flight at a moments notice.
Where do I buy a DJI Mini drone?
Both the Mini 2 and Mini SE are available now in-store and online at D1 Store! Purchase online and receive free shipping within Australia.
Want more?
Want to take your Mini 2 experience to a whole new level? Check out
our D1 exclusive Mini 2 Combos that include all our favourite accessories for the Mini 2! Or check out our list of Must Have Accessories for DJI Mini 2
- DJI Mini 2 Pro Combo
DJI Mini 2 Pro Combo | $999
- DJI Mini SE Pro Combo
DJI Mini SE Pro Combo | $648
Includes: x1 DJI Mini SE Combo, x1 Propeller Guards, x1 128GB SD Card, x1 55cm Landing Pad
- DJI Mini 2 Ultimate Combo
DJI Mini 2 Ultimate Combo | $1099
- DJI Mini SE Ultimate Combo
DJI Mini SE Ultimate Combo | $748
Shop with Confidence
Shop with D1 Store and experience local support, service and the best prices. We've got convenient locations around Australia where you can see and experience the products first hand.
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