DJI has unveiled its latest drone, the Mini 5 Pro, featuring a powerful 1-inch sensor and advanced tracking capabilities designed to enhance the filmmaking experience. This compact drone promises improved flight time, efficient tracking, and reliable obstacle avoidance, addressing common challenges faced by content creators in various environments.
The Mini 5 Pro is equipped with a 50 MP sensor and can capture 4K video at 60 frames per second. It offers a dynamic range that performs well even in challenging backlight conditions, and its LiDAR-based obstacle avoidance system operates effectively in low-light scenarios. These enhancements make it easier for users to capture high-quality footage without needing to constantly adjust settings.
Advanced Features and Performance
In a hands-on review by filmmaker Gene Nagata, the Mini 5 Pro demonstrated its capabilities in real-world shooting conditions. The drone’s upgraded ActiveTrack feature follows subjects at higher speeds, providing a smoother experience without the twitchiness often seen in previous models. By utilizing box framing, users can allow the drone to automatically recompose shots, resulting in more polished tracking.
The Mini 5 Pro’s gimbal offers true vertical shooting without cropping, preserving detail for social media-ready vertical formats. This feature is particularly beneficial for creators who prioritize maintaining high image quality across various platforms. The drone also includes a 36-minute flight time when using the Intelligent Flight Battery, a significant improvement over its predecessors.
The testing revealed that the Mini 5 Pro’s obstacle avoidance is effective, allowing it to navigate through branches while maintaining speed. In normal mode, the drone applies braking sooner, thanks to its advanced sensing capabilities, which increases flight safety.
Image Quality and User Experience
Image quality has seen notable improvements, with backlit scenes maintaining better shadow detail compared to earlier models. The 10-bit H.265 color options support D-Log M and HLG, enabling filmmakers to capture a broader spectrum of colors and details. Internal storage is another key feature, with 42 GB of built-in memory, allowing for shooting without a memory card.
The Mini 5 Pro’s design facilitates quick ND filter swaps without disrupting the gimbal assembly, enhancing usability. The drone is compatible with the RC 2 controller, which offers various screen brightness options and ergonomic designs, catering to different user preferences.
Nagata’s review underscores the Mini 5 Pro’s reliability in various conditions, particularly its ability to function well during low ambient light situations. The LiDAR-based nightscape sensing helps reduce unnecessary landing warnings, a common issue with older models. This feature is particularly useful when filming in outdoor environments as dusk approaches.
As DJI continues to innovate in the drone market, the Mini 5 Pro sets a new standard for compact drones aimed at professional and amateur filmmakers alike. With its combination of advanced technology and user-friendly features, it appears poised to make a significant impact on how content is created and shared. For a comprehensive overview, viewers can check out Nagata’s full video review.
