And light drone (249 g) and with folding arms, capable of films a 4K 60p. Here’s what the new one offers DJI Flip. If it is reminiscent of the DJI Mini 3, it is distinguished by its very original designin propeller protection integrated and by its modes of intelligent subject tracking.
Innovative design and propeller protection
DJI likes surprise his world. Six months after the DJI Neo, the Chinese brand returns to the forefront and unveils a drone… rather atypical. Indeed, its propellers are protected by a rather light fairing – but which will act as bumper and will reassure novice users.
Moreover, its rotors fold under the “body” of the device. To turn on the drone, simply unfold the arms. A unique process…and rather surprising. Star Wars fans will see a resemblance to the droid D-0!
When folded, the machine measures approximately 13 cm long on 17 cm high and fits quite easily in a backpack… even if it shows wider than “usual” format drones from DJI. Once the arms are unfolded, its wingspan reaches approximately 30 cm. We will also note its weight of 249 g (and its European C0 classification), which allows it to evade certain legal obligations in terms of online training and registration.
Piloting modes inspired by the DJI Neo
Like the DJI Neo, the DJI Flip aims to offer the easiest flying experience possible. Thus, it is entirely controllable with a smartphone. However, it remains compatible with DJI’s usual remote controls. In addition, the drone relies on the “flying selfie camera” modealready seen on the DJI Neo. The drone detects the subject and follows its developments – without requiring any intervention on his part.
THE Quickshots are also there, with 6 smart modes (dronie, circle, rocket, spotlight, spiral and boomerang). To switch between flight modes, simply press the button on the side of the aircraft when it is on the ground, or via the smartphone or remote control.
Finally, note that the propellers emit a much less strident sound than for the Neo.
48 MP sensor and 4K 60p video
Within the stabilized nacelle of the DJI Flip, we find a 48 Mpx sensor type 1/1.3 inch. The latter was already present on the DJI Mini 3 (Pro), DJI Air 3 – and on the telephoto lens of the DJI Mavic 3 Pro/Ciné.
By default, photos are captured in 12 Mpx thanks to the pixel binning ; however, an option allows you to exploit the native definition of the sensor: you can thus obtain images of 8064 x 6048 pixels. Files are saved in JPEG and in RAW (DNG format). The 22mm equivalent lens opens at f/1.7.
The DJI Flip also relies on in-house algorithms SmartPhoto. The camera automatically selects the shooting mode according to the shooting conditions, and applies a HDR processing more suitable for the stage. Furthermore, it makes it possible to carry out panoramic photos by assembling 9 or 16 photos.
On the video side, the DJI Flip films up to 4K 50 or 60p. In slow motionthe drone goes up to 100 fps, in 4K or FHD. Enough to break down the evolution of subjects with very rapid movements. By default, images are filmed in 4:2:0 8 bits (H.265 codec). However, one mode HLG / D-Log M allows you to film in 4:2:0 10 bit with greater color depth. Experienced videographers will appreciate it.
On the other hand, the drone seems to ignore several modes, which remain reserved for older models. premium. So, “night” mode pointnor the possibility of natively obtaining images in vertical format. And, unsurprisingly, 4:2:2 10-bit capture is absent.
Obstacle detection and (small) internal memory
Despite its lightweight, the DJI Flip integrates a forward obstacle detection systemthanks to a set of infrared sensors. By default, the drone emits an audible alert and brakes when it perceives an element of the decor. A good way to reassure beginners.
In case of obstacle on the sides or at the back, the propeller protectionmentioned above, avoid damaging the machine. Additionally, infrared sensors enable safer hovering and landing. The “Return to Home” mode is still included, for a simplified return to the starting point.
To ensure the transmission of images to the smartphone (or remote control), the DJI Flip uses technology OcuSync 4.0. The stream is sent in FHD 60p, with a maximum range of 13 km. Remember, however, that European legislation requires you to keep your drone within sight.
The drone is compatible with remote controls DJI RC-N2 or RC 2 (with integrated screen). The flight is carried out using the application DJI Flip – which also allows you to easily recover images captured by the device. Especially since the DJI Flip is equipped with a small internal memory of 2 GBvery practical if you forget your Micro SD cards at home…
Finally, we can record sound of his videos via the micro de son smartphone (or via microphones DJI Mic). The application eliminates propeller noise and merges the audio track with the video. A function already seen on the DJI Neo.
What autonomy for the DJI Flip?
The DJI Flip employs a 3110 mAh batterywhich weighs 83 g. Maximum autonomy reached 31 minutes (compared to 17 minutes max. with the DJI Neo). Enough to offer a some peace of mind. Especially since the device recharges via USB-C: you can recharge it on the go thanks to a power bank – or via the charger of your smartphone.
Furthermore, a charging station (optional) allows you to recharge 4 batteries, and up to 2 batteries simultaneously. The latter is automatically supplied with the Fly More kit.
DJI Flip price and availability
The DJI Flip is available now from 439 €. The “standard” kit includes the drone and an RC-N3 remote control.
True to its good habits, DJI also offers a kit with the RC-2 remote control at a price of €639.
A DJI Flip “Fly More” kit is also available for €779, it includes the drone, the RC-2 remote control, 3 batteries, a charging station, 3 sets of propellers and a carrying bag.
The DJI Flip is available from Digit-Photo, IPLN, Miss Numérique, StudioSport, Photo-Univers, Fnac as well as in specialized photo stores.
Our first review of the DJI Flip
With the DJI Flip, the Chinese manufacturer offers a very original drone. With its very reduced weight, its integrated propeller protection and the video in 4K 60pit should largely appeal to beginner drone pilots wanting a more versatile solution than the recent DJI Neo.
So much so that he could well overshadowing its big brother, the DJI Mini 3. Both models integrate the same 48 Mpx sensor; nevertheless, the Mini 3 is penalized by the absence of 4K 60p and obstacle sensors. So, the DJI Flip offers very good value for moneyand should convince content creators wanting to (re)discover the practice of drones without breaking the bank.
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