OVERALL
ALTERNATIVES
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
Scored using Drones Methodology v2.0
Drones Methodology v2.0
Mathematical & Unbiased Scoring
Products in this category are scored under Frontumo Drones Methodology v2.0: technical specifications plus grades from 1,023 independent expert reviews and 2,622 video reviews, with 0% commercial bias.
Explore Drones Methodology v2.0

DJI Air 3S Review | 97 Data compared

Avg. price:~£990Max flight time:45 minVideo resolution:4K/120 fpsMax transmission distance:20 km

DJI Air 3S Review: Compare 97 technical specifications and 64 expert and video reviews to see how this product ranks in the Drones category and whether it is worth buying.

9.1

Overall score

Score
9.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An overall evaluation of the drone's quality, based on technical analyses and grades from independent expert reviews.
When it matters
When you need a quick reference to identify the best drones on the market.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 99% of models
Score components

85%

9.1

Technical score

15%

9.0

Review score ( 24 · 40)

Review score 15% · 9.0 · based on 64 independent reviews
Every model in this category gets the same split: reviews 15%, technical score 85%. This model has enough reviews, so its review score is the weighted average of their grades.
★Better than 99% of drones
9.1

Technical score

Technical score
9.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the drone's technical performance, covering key areas such as flight performance, camera quality, transmission, safety features, battery life, and design.
When it matters
When you want to compare drones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 99% of models
Score components

26%

10

Flight

24%

8.8

Camera

20%

8.8

Safety

16%

9.2

Connectivity

14%

8.4

Battery & Design

★Better than 99% of drones
9.0

Review score

Review score
9.0/ 10
✕
What it is
Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
How we count it
Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves.
Weighting: Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
Share: Reviews are 15% of the overall score for every model in this category; each of the 4 needed reviews that is missing counts as 7/10.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 98% of models
Grades by review (64)
24 reviews: 14 with a printed score, 10 estimated from the review. 40 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Share in the overall score: 15%, the same for every model in this category.
Text reviews 12
✓ explicit
9

2.9%

10

t3.com

2.9%

10

amateurphotographer.com

2.9%

9.6

techgearlab.com

2.9%

9.0

techradar.com

2.9%

9.0

pcmag.com

2.9%

9.0

tomsguide.com

2.9%

9.0

space.com

2.9%

8.0

stuff.tv

2.3%

9.0

androidpolice.com

≈ estimated
3

2.3%

9.5

zdnet.com

2.3%

9.5

thedronegirl.com

1.2%

9.0

cined.com

Video reviews 10

1.2%

9.5

Ian in London

1.2%

9.0

Air Photography

1.2%

9.0

Mihail Svilenov

1.2%

9.0

Pilot Institute Drones

1.2%

9.0

RobHK

1.2%

9.0

DM Productions

1.2%

8.0

TECH DRONE MEDIA

1.2%

5.0

Dustin Dunnill

0.6%

9.0

Drone Experiments

0.6%

9.0

Billy Kyle

estimated from the review
Shop star ratings are not part of this score.
★Better than 98% of drones
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Best rankings

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
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Technical Specifications of drone DJI Air 3S

Technical score
Technical score
9.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the drone's technical performance, covering key areas such as flight performance, camera quality, transmission, safety features, battery life, and design.
When it matters
When you want to compare drones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 100% of models
Score components:

26%

10

Flight

24%

8.8

Camera

20%

8.8

Safety

16%

9.2

Connectivity

14%

8.4

Battery & Design

9.1
Review score
Review score
9.0/ 10
✕
What it is
Average grade from independent test sites, magazines and video reviewers, 1–10.
How we count it
Grades: Each review's own score is converted to 1–10; without one, we grade the review ourselves.
Weighting: Big test sites count more, short reviews half as much as full tests. A video review counts half.
Share: Reviews are 15% of the overall score for every model in this category; each of the 4 needed reviews that is missing counts as 7/10.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 98% of models
Grades by review (64)
24 reviews: 14 with a printed score, 10 estimated from the review. 40 video reviews, each counting half as much as a written test. Share in the overall score: 15%, the same for every model in this category.
Text reviews 12
✓ explicit
9

2.9%

10

t3.com

2.9%

10

amateurphotographer.com

2.9%

9.6

techgearlab.com

2.9%

9.0

techradar.com

2.9%

9.0

pcmag.com

2.9%

9.0

tomsguide.com

2.9%

9.0

space.com

2.9%

8.0

stuff.tv

2.3%

9.0

androidpolice.com

≈ estimated
3

2.3%

9.5

zdnet.com

2.3%

9.5

thedronegirl.com

1.2%

9.0

cined.com

Video reviews 10

1.2%

9.5

Ian in London

1.2%

9.0

Air Photography

1.2%

9.0

Mihail Svilenov

1.2%

9.0

Pilot Institute Drones

1.2%

9.0

RobHK

1.2%

9.0

DM Productions

1.2%

8.0

TECH DRONE MEDIA

1.2%

5.0

Dustin Dunnill

0.6%

9.0

Drone Experiments

0.6%

9.0

Billy Kyle

estimated from the review
Shop star ratings are not part of this score.
9.0
Popularity
Popularity
9.1/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the drone.
When it matters
When you prefer to choose a drone reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 78% of models
Popularity:
DJI Air 3S has a popularity score of 9.1 points, which is higher than that of 77.7% of products in this category.
9.1
Value for money
Value for money
7.9/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the drone's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a drone with a good balance between flight quality, camera features, and price.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
▲ Better than 87% of models
Score components:

60%

9.1

Overall score

40%

5.3

Price

7.9
Max flight time
45 min
Max flight time
45 min
★ Better than 95% of models
Market range: <8 min – >40 min
This drone has a max flight time of 45 min, longer than 94.5% of drones and equal to 1.5% of drones.
Max flight distance
32 km
Max flight distance
32 km
★ Better than 97% of models
Market range: <0.05 km – >24 km
This drone has a max flight distance of 32 km, farther than 96.7% of drones and equal to 1.7% of drones.
Maximum range varies by region (for example FCC vs CE).
Max flight speed
21 m/s
Max flight speed
21 m/s
▲ Better than 89% of models
Market range: <4 m/s – >21 m/s
This drone has a max flight speed of 21 m/s, faster than 88.6% of drones and equal to 6.3% of drones.
Top speed may be lower in EU/CE-regulated regions.
Max wind resistance
12 m/s
Max wind resistance
12 m/s
▲ Better than 76% of models
Market range: <3.3 m/s – >12 m/s
This drone has max wind resistance of 12 m/s, higher than 75.5% of drones and equal to 15.1% of drones.
Value may include conversion from Beaufort-scale rating to m/s.
Max service ceiling (ASL)
6,000 m
Max service ceiling (ASL)
6,000 m
▲ Better than 81% of models
Market range: <120 m – >6k m
This drone has a max service ceiling of 6,000 m, higher than 81.3% of drones and equal to 12.7% of drones.
Show more
What reviewers say
Video resolution
4K/120 fps
Video resolution
4K/120 fps
★ Better than 90% of models
This drone records video at 4K/120 fps, higher than 90.1% of drones and equal to 0.5% of drones.
4K camera
yes
4K camera
yes
▲ Better than 46% of models
This drone supports 4K video. 46% of drones support 4K video.
Sensor size
1"
Sensor size
1"
▲ Better than 84% of models
This drone has a sensor size of 1", larger than 84.3% of drones and equal to 8.3% of drones.
Main camera megapixels
50 MP
Main camera megapixels
50 MP
★ Better than 95% of models
Market range: <2 MP – >48 MP
This drone has a main camera resolution of 50 MP, higher than 94.7% of drones and equal to 3.3% of drones.
Max movie bitrate
130 Mbps
Max movie bitrate
130 Mbps
▲ Better than 74% of models
Market range: <40 Mbps – >180 Mbps
This drone has a max movie bitrate of 130 Mbps, higher than 73.7% of drones and equal to 6.6% of drones.
Show more
What reviewers say
Obstacle detection
yes
Obstacle detection
yes
▲ Better than 70% of models
This drone supports obstacle detection. 69.5% of drones support obstacle detection.
Return to Home (RTH)
yes
Return to Home (RTH)
yes
▲ Better than 33% of models
This drone supports Return-to-Home (RTH). 33% of drones support Return-to-Home (RTH).
GPS
yes
GPS
yes
▲ Better than 35% of models
This drone supports GPS. 35.3% of drones support GPS.
GNSS systems supported
GPS, Galileo, BeiDou
GNSS systems supported
GPS, Galileo, BeiDou
▲ Better than 73% of models
This drone supports GPS, Galileo, BeiDou GNSS systems, which are more comprehensive than those of 73.4% and the same as those of 8.5%.
Obstacle sensing directions
omnidirectional
Obstacle sensing directions
omnidirectional
▲ Better than 83% of models
This drone senses obstacles in omnidirectional directions, which is more comprehensive than that of 83.4% and the same as that of 16.6%.
Show more
What reviewers say
Max transmission distance
20 km
Max transmission distance
20 km
★ Better than 96% of models
Market range: <0.05 km – >15 km
This drone has a max transmission distance of 20 km, farther than 95.9% of drones and equal to 2.6% of drones.
Maximum range varies by region; CE/SRRC/MIC limits can be lower.
Transmission latency
120 ms
Transmission latency
120 ms
▲ Better than 59% of models
Market range: <100 ms – >220 ms
This drone has transmission latency of 120 ms, lower than 59.2% of drones and equal to 28.2% of drones.
Video transmission system
O4
Video transmission system
O4
★ Better than 92% of models
This drone uses O4 for video transmission, which is more advanced than the system used by 92.3% and the same as that used by 6.7%.
Live view quality
1080p@60 fps
Live view quality
1080p@60 fps
▲ Better than 80% of models
This drone offers live view quality of 1080p@60 fps, higher-quality than 80.2% of drones and equal to 12.5% of drones.
Remote control
yes
Remote control
yes
▲ Better than 5% of models
This drone has a handheld remote controller. 5% of drones offer this.
Show more
Battery capacity
4,276 mAh
Battery capacity
4,276 mAh
▲ Better than 83% of models
Market range: <550 mAh – >5k mAh
This drone has a battery capacity of 4,276 mAh, larger than 82.9% of drones.
Battery energy
62.5 Wh
Battery energy
62.5 Wh
▲ Better than 85% of models
Market range: <3.7 Wh – >77 Wh
This drone has battery energy of 62.5 Wh, higher than 84.7% of drones.
Charging time
60 min
Charging time
60 min
▲ Better than 80% of models
Market range: <55 min – >180 min
This drone charges in 60 min, faster than 80% of drones and equal to 8.8% of drones.
Weight
724 g
Weight
724 g
▼ Worse than 78% of models
Market range: <80 g – >920 g
This drone weighs 724 g, heavier than 77.8% of drones.
Removable battery
yes
Removable battery
yes
▲ Better than 1% of models
This drone has a removable battery. 0.5% of drones have a removable battery.
Show more
What reviewers say

DJI Air 3S vs the average drone

246810TotalFlightCameraSafetyConnectivityBattery & Design
  • 31 km longer flight distance
    Max flight distance
    32 km
    ★ Better than 97% of models
    Market range: <0.05 km – >24 km
    This drone has a longer max flight distance than the average drone (32 km vs 1 km). The average drone can fly up to 1 km.
    Maximum range varies by region (for example FCC vs CE).
    32 km vs 1 km
  • 25 min longer flight time
    Max flight time
    45 min
    ★ Better than 95% of models
    Market range: <8 min – >40 min
    This drone offers longer max flight time than the average drone (45 min vs 20 min). The average drone offers 20 min of max flight time.
    45 min vs 20 min
  • 19 km longer transmission range
    Max transmission distance
    20 km
    ★ Better than 96% of models
    Market range: <0.05 km – >15 km
    This drone has a longer max transmission distance than the average drone (20 km vs 1 km). The average drone reaches 1 km of transmission distance.
    Maximum range varies by region; CE/SRRC/MIC limits can be lower.
    20 km vs 1 km
  • Larger sensor size
    Sensor size
    1"
    ▲ Better than 84% of models
    This drone has a larger sensor than the average drone (1" vs 1/2.3"). The average drone uses a sensor of 1/2.3".
    1" vs 1/2.3"
  • Supports obstacle detection
    Obstacle detection
    yes
    ▲ Better than 70% of models
    This drone supports obstacle detection, while the average drone does not.
  • 6 m/s faster flight speed
    Max flight speed
    21 m/s
    ▲ Better than 89% of models
    Market range: <4 m/s – >21 m/s
    This drone reaches a higher max flight speed than the average drone (21 m/s vs 15 m/s). The average drone reaches 15 m/s.
    Top speed may be lower in EU/CE-regulated regions.
    21 m/s vs 15 m/s
  • 3 more gimbal axes
    Gimbal axes
    3
    ▲ Better than 64% of models
    Market range: <0 – >3
    This drone has more gimbal axes than the average drone (3 vs 0). The average drone has 0 gimbal axes.
    3 vs 0
  • Supports low-light mode
    Low light mode
    yes
    ▲ Better than 78% of models
    This drone supports low-light mode, while the average drone does not.
  • 12.6% better value for money
    DJI Air 3S has better value for money than the average drone (7.94 vs 7.1).
    7.94 vs 7.06
  • 31 km longer flight distance
    Max flight distance
    32 km
    ★ Better than 97% of models
    Market range: <0.05 km – >24 km
    This drone has a longer max flight distance than the average drone (32 km vs 1 km). The average drone can fly up to 1 km.
    Maximum range varies by region (for example FCC vs CE).
    32 km vs 1 km
  • 25 min longer flight time
    Max flight time
    45 min
    ★ Better than 95% of models
    Market range: <8 min – >40 min
    This drone offers longer max flight time than the average drone (45 min vs 20 min). The average drone offers 20 min of max flight time.
    45 min vs 20 min
  • 6 m/s faster flight speed
    Max flight speed
    21 m/s
    ▲ Better than 89% of models
    Market range: <4 m/s – >21 m/s
    This drone reaches a higher max flight speed than the average drone (21 m/s vs 15 m/s). The average drone reaches 15 m/s.
    Top speed may be lower in EU/CE-regulated regions.
    21 m/s vs 15 m/s
  • 5 m/s faster ascent speed
    Max ascent speed
    10 m/s
    ★ Better than 93% of models
    Market range: <3 m/s – >8 m/s
    This drone climbs faster than the average drone (10 m/s vs 5 m/s). The average drone climbs at 5 m/s.
    10 m/s vs 5 m/s
  • 1.3 m/s higher wind resistance
    Max wind resistance
    12 m/s
    ▲ Better than 76% of models
    Market range: <3.3 m/s – >12 m/s
    This drone handles stronger wind than the average drone (12 m/s vs 10.7 m/s). The average drone handles wind up to 10.7 m/s.
    Value may include conversion from Beaufort-scale rating to m/s.
    12 m/s vs 10.7 m/s
  • 6 m/s faster descent speed
    Max descent speed
    10 m/s
    ★ Better than 96% of models
    Market range: <2 m/s – >8 m/s
    This drone descends faster than the average drone (10 m/s vs 4 m/s). The average drone descends at 4 m/s.
    10 m/s vs 4 m/s
  • 2,500 m higher service ceiling
    Max service ceiling (ASL)
    6,000 m
    ▲ Better than 81% of models
    Market range: <120 m – >6k m
    This drone can fly at a higher max service ceiling than the average drone (6000 m vs 3500 m). The average drone reaches 3500 m.
    6,000 m vs 3,500 m
  • Larger sensor size
    Sensor size
    1"
    ▲ Better than 84% of models
    This drone has a larger sensor than the average drone (1" vs 1/2.3"). The average drone uses a sensor of 1/2.3".
    1" vs 1/2.3"
  • 3 more gimbal axes
    Gimbal axes
    3
    ▲ Better than 64% of models
    Market range: <0 – >3
    This drone has more gimbal axes than the average drone (3 vs 0). The average drone has 0 gimbal axes.
    3 vs 0
  • Supports low-light mode
    Low light mode
    yes
    ▲ Better than 78% of models
    This drone supports low-light mode, while the average drone does not.
  • More color profile options
    Color profiles
    Normal, D-Log M, HLG
    ★ Better than 92% of models
    This drone supports Normal, D-Log M, HLG color profiles, while the average drone supports Normal.
    Normal, D-Log M, HLG vs Normal
  • Includes optical zoom
    Optical zoom camera
    yes
    ★ Better than 94% of models
    This drone has an optical zoom camera, while the average drone does not. 6.9% of drones offer one.
  • More video codec options
    Video codecs supported
    H.264/AVC, H.265/HEVC
    ▲ Better than 70% of models
    This drone supports H.264/AVC, H.265/HEVC video codecs, while the average drone supports H.264/AVC.
    H.264/AVC, H.265/HEVC vs H.264/AVC
  • 30 Mbps higher video bitrate
    Max movie bitrate
    130 Mbps
    ▲ Better than 74% of models
    Market range: <40 Mbps – >180 Mbps
    This drone supports a higher maximum video bitrate than the average drone (130 Mbps vs 100 Mbps). The average drone supports a maximum video bitrate of 100 Mbps.
    130 Mbps vs 100 Mbps
  • 38 MP more camera resolution
    Main camera megapixels
    50 MP
    ★ Better than 95% of models
    Market range: <2 MP – >48 MP
    This drone has more main camera megapixels than the average drone (50 MP vs 12 MP). The average drone has 12 MP on the main camera.
    50 MP vs 12 MP
  • Captures RAW photos
    RAW photo capture
    yes
    ▲ Better than 67% of models
    This drone can capture RAW photos, while the average drone cannot.
  • More capable focus system
    Focus system
    hybrid AF (PDAF + CDAF)
    ★ Better than 94% of models
    This drone uses hybrid AF (PDAF + CDAF) for focusing, while the average drone uses fixed focus.
    hybrid AF (PDAF + CDAF) vs fixed focus
  • More advanced stabilization
    Image stabilization type
    3-Axis Mechanical
    ▲ Better than 62% of models
    This drone uses 3-Axis Mechanical image stabilization, while the average drone uses EIS (Digital).
    3-Axis Mechanical vs EIS (Digital)
  • Richer manual controls
    Manual camera controls
    full
    ▲ Better than 68% of models
    This drone offers full manual camera controls, while the average drone offers no.
    full vs no
  • 42 GB more internal storage
    Internal storage
    42 GB
    ★ Better than 95% of models
    Market range: <0 GB – >8 GB
    This drone has more internal storage than the average drone (42 GB vs 0 GB). The average drone has 0 GB of internal storage.
    42 GB vs 0 GB
  • More video format options
    Video formats
    MP4, MOV
    ▲ Better than 83% of models
    This drone supports MP4, MOV video formats, while the average drone supports MP4.
    MP4, MOV vs MP4
  • Supports slow-motion mode
    Slow-motion mode
    yes
    ▲ Better than 71% of models
    This drone supports slow-motion mode, while the average drone does not.
  • Supports HDR mode
    HDR mode
    yes
    ▲ Better than 72% of models
    This drone supports HDR mode, while the average drone does not.
  • Higher photo resolution
    Photo resolution
    8192 x 6144 px
    ★ Better than 92% of models
    This drone offers higher photo resolution than the average drone (8192x6144 px vs 4096x3072 px). The average drone offers a photo resolution of 4096x3072 px.
    8192x6144 px vs 4096x3072 px
  • Wider aperture
    Aperture
    f/1.8
    ▲ Better than 80% of models
    This drone has a wider aperture than the average drone (f/1.8 vs f/2). The average drone uses an aperture of f/2.
    f/1.8 vs f/2
  • 6 x higher digital zoom
    Digital zoom
    9 x
    ▲ Better than 84% of models
    Market range: <0 x – >16 x
    This drone offers more digital zoom than the average drone (9 x vs 3 x). The average drone offers 3 x of digital zoom.
    9 x vs 3 x
  • Wider tilt range
    Camera tilt range
    -90 to 60 °
    ★ Better than 94% of models
    This drone has a wider tilt range than the average drone (-90 to 60 ° vs -90 to 20 °).
    -90 to 60 ° vs -90 to 20 °
  • Supports burst mode
    Burst mode
    yes
    ▲ Better than 61% of models
    This drone supports burst mode, while the average drone does not.
  • Supports panorama mode
    Panorama mode
    yes
    ▲ Better than 54% of models
    This drone supports panorama mode, while the average drone does not.
  • 6,400 ISO higher max ISO
    Max ISO
    12,800 ISO
    ▲ Better than 53% of models
    Market range: <3.2k ISO – >25.6k ISO
    This drone reaches a higher max ISO than the average drone (12800 ISO vs 6400 ISO). The average drone reaches 6400 ISO.
    12,800 ISO vs 6,400 ISO
  • 384 GB higher memory card limit
    Max external memory supported
    512 GB
    ▲ Better than 86% of models
    Market range: <0 GB – >512 GB
    This drone supports more external storage than the average drone (512 GB vs 128 GB). The average drone supports up to 128 GB of external storage.
    512 GB vs 128 GB
  • Supports obstacle detection
    Obstacle detection
    yes
    ▲ Better than 70% of models
    This drone supports obstacle detection, while the average drone does not.
  • Supports waypoint flight
    Waypoint flight
    yes
    ▲ Better than 51% of models
    This drone supports waypoint flight, while the average drone does not.
  • Supports QuickShots
    QuickShots
    yes
    ▲ Better than 68% of models
    This drone supports QuickShots, while the average drone does not.
  • 5 more flight modes
    N. of intelligent flight modes
    9
    ★ Better than 92% of models
    Market range: <0 – >8
    This drone offers more intelligent flight modes than the average drone (9 vs 4). The average drone offers 4 intelligent flight modes.
    ActiveTrack, Spotlight, POI, Waypoint Flight, QuickShots, MasterShots, Hyperlapse, Panorama, Cruise Control
    9 vs 4
  • Remote ID
    Remote ID
    yes
    ▲ Better than 74% of models
    This drone supports Remote ID, while the average drone does not.
  • Less restrictive EU class
    EU class marking
    C1
    ▲ Better than 74% of models
    This drone is rated as C1 under the EU drone class system, while the average drone is rated as None.
    C1 vs None
  • 2.91x lower takeoff weight
    Max takeoff weight
    724 g
    ▲ Better than 76% of models
    Market range: <80 g – >1.1k g
    This drone has a lower max takeoff weight than the average drone (724 g vs 249 g). The average drone has a max takeoff weight of 249 g.
    724 g vs 249 g
  • 19 km longer transmission range
    Max transmission distance
    20 km
    ★ Better than 96% of models
    Market range: <0.05 km – >15 km
    This drone has a longer max transmission distance than the average drone (20 km vs 1 km). The average drone reaches 1 km of transmission distance.
    Maximum range varies by region; CE/SRRC/MIC limits can be lower.
    20 km vs 1 km
  • Built-in display
    Display
    yes
    ▲ Better than 85% of models
    This drone has a built-in display, while the average drone does not.
  • More polished companion app
    Companion app
    DJI Fly
    ▲ Better than 84% of models
    This drone uses the DJI Fly companion app, while the average drone uses HS FPV.
    DJI Fly vs HS FPV
  • More frequency bands
    Operating frequency bands
    2.4 GHz, 5.2 GHz, 5.8 GHz
    ▲ Better than 84% of models
    This drone supports 2.4 GHz, 5.2 GHz, 5.8 GHz operating frequency bands, while the average drone supports 2.4 GHz, 5.8 GHz.
    2.4 GHz, 5.2 GHz, 5.8 GHz vs 2.4 GHz, 5.8 GHz
  • Better live view quality
    Live view quality
    1080p@60 fps
    ▲ Better than 80% of models
    This drone has better live view quality than the average drone (1080p@60 fps vs 1080p@25 fps). The average drone offers live view quality of 1080p@25 fps.
    1080p@60 fps vs 1080p@25 fps
  • More capable transmission system
    Video transmission system
    O4
    ★ Better than 92% of models
    This drone uses O4 for video transmission, while the average drone uses SkyLink 2.0.
    O4 vs SkyLink 2.0
  • 10 ms lower latency
    Transmission latency
    120 ms
    ▲ Better than 59% of models
    Market range: <100 ms – >220 ms
    This drone has lower transmission latency than the average drone (120 ms vs 130 ms). The average drone has transmission latency of 130 ms.
    120 ms vs 130 ms
  • Supports 4G / LTE
    4G / LTE support
    yes
    ★ Better than 90% of models
    This drone supports 4G / LTE connectivity, while the average drone does not.
    Requires optional cellular dongle.
  • 45.32 Wh more battery energy
    Battery energy
    62.5 Wh
    ▲ Better than 85% of models
    Market range: <3.7 Wh – >77 Wh
    This drone has higher battery energy than the average drone (62.5 Wh vs 17.18 Wh). The average drone battery has 17.18 Wh of energy.
    62.5 Wh vs 17.18 Wh
  • 2,076 mAh more battery capacity
    Battery capacity
    4,276 mAh
    ▲ Better than 83% of models
    Market range: <550 mAh – >5k mAh
    This drone has a larger battery capacity than the average drone (4276 mAh vs 2200 mAh). The average drone battery has a capacity of 2200 mAh.
    4,276 mAh vs 2,200 mAh
  • More modern charging port
    Charging interface
    USB-C
    ▲ Better than 61% of models
    This drone uses USB-C for charging, while the average drone uses micro-USB.
    USB-C vs micro-USB
  • 30 min shorter charging time
    Charging time
    60 min
    ▲ Better than 80% of models
    Market range: <55 min – >180 min
    This drone charges faster than the average drone (60 min vs 90 min). The average drone charges in 90 min.
    60 min vs 90 min
  • 2.94x higher weight
    Weight
    724 g
    ▼ Worse than 78% of models
    Market range: <80 g – >920 g
    This drone is heavier than the average drone (724 g vs 246 g). The average drone weighs 246 g.
    724 g vs 246 g
  • 43.5 mm taller body height
    Height
    106 mm
    ▼ Worse than 81% of models
    Market range: <38 mm – >120 mm
    This drone is taller than the average drone (106 mm vs 62.5 mm). The average drone is 62.5 mm tall.
    106 mm vs 62.5 mm
  • 84.47 mm wider width
    Width
    325.47 mm
    ▼ Worse than 78% of models
    Market range: <114 mm – >387.5 mm
    This drone is wider than the average drone (325.5 mm vs 241 mm). The average drone width is 241 mm.
    325.47 mm vs 241 mm
  • Fewer GNSS systems
    GNSS systems supported
    GPS, Galileo, BeiDou
    ▲ Better than 73% of models
    This drone supports GPS, Galileo, BeiDou GNSS systems, while the average drone supports GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou.
    GPS, Galileo, BeiDou vs GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou
  • 4.95x more expensive
    DJI Air 3S is more expensive than the average drone (£990 vs £200).
    £990 vs £200
  • No headless mode
    Headless mode
    no
    ▼ Worse than 55% of models
    This drone does not support headless mode, while the average drone does.
  • 6 ° narrower field of view
    Field of view
    84 °
    ▼ Worse than 61% of models
    Market range: <79 ° – >130 °
    This drone has a narrower field of view than the average drone (84 ° vs 90 °). The average drone has a field of view of 90 °.
    84 ° vs 90 °
  • More basic controller
    Controller model
    RC-N3
    ▼ Worse than 52% of models
    This drone uses the RC-N3 controller, while the average drone uses LiteRadio 4 SE.
    RC-N3 vs LiteRadio 4 SE
  • 4.95x more expensive
    DJI Air 3S is more expensive than the average drone (£990 vs £200).
    £990 vs £200
  • 6 ° narrower field of view
    Field of view
    84 °
    ▼ Worse than 61% of models
    Market range: <79 ° – >130 °
    This drone has a narrower field of view than the average drone (84 ° vs 90 °). The average drone has a field of view of 90 °.
    84 ° vs 90 °
  • Fewer GNSS systems
    GNSS systems supported
    GPS, Galileo, BeiDou
    ▲ Better than 73% of models
    This drone supports GPS, Galileo, BeiDou GNSS systems, while the average drone supports GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou.
    GPS, Galileo, BeiDou vs GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou
  • No headless mode
    Headless mode
    no
    ▼ Worse than 55% of models
    This drone does not support headless mode, while the average drone does.
  • More basic controller
    Controller model
    RC-N3
    ▼ Worse than 52% of models
    This drone uses the RC-N3 controller, while the average drone uses LiteRadio 4 SE.
    RC-N3 vs LiteRadio 4 SE
  • 2.94x higher weight
    Weight
    724 g
    ▼ Worse than 78% of models
    Market range: <80 g – >920 g
    This drone is heavier than the average drone (724 g vs 246 g). The average drone weighs 246 g.
    724 g vs 246 g
  • 43.5 mm taller body height
    Height
    106 mm
    ▼ Worse than 81% of models
    Market range: <38 mm – >120 mm
    This drone is taller than the average drone (106 mm vs 62.5 mm). The average drone is 62.5 mm tall.
    106 mm vs 62.5 mm
  • 84.47 mm wider width
    Width
    325.47 mm
    ▼ Worse than 78% of models
    Market range: <114 mm – >387.5 mm
    This drone is wider than the average drone (325.5 mm vs 241 mm). The average drone width is 241 mm.
    325.47 mm vs 241 mm

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

8.0
TECH DRONE MEDIA
≈ estimated
14/01/2026
Hands-on review · flight, camera and return-to-home tests
Verdict
DJI Air 3S is stable and easy to fly with a strong camera, though return to home only landed after being forced.
9.0
Air Photography
≈ estimated
06/05/2025
Long-term review · six months of flying
Verdict
DJI Air 3S is a safe, easy, capable drone that suits most people, with only minor gaps like goggle support.
9.0
Mihail Svilenov
≈ estimated
23/03/2025
Long-term review · six months of regular flying
Verdict
DJI Air 3S is close to perfect, with a well-balanced mix of performance, price and practicality.
9.0
Pilot Institute Drones
≈ estimated
24/02/2025
Long-term test · a month of personal flying
Verdict
DJI Air 3S is not perfect, but it is a top pick and a strong package for the money.
5.0
Dustin Dunnill
≈ estimated
15/12/2024
Flight test · forest trail tracking and crash test
Verdict
DJI Air 3S struggled with active tracking on narrow forest trails, while flying by hand worked better.
6.0
TECH DRONE MEDIA
≈ estimated
28/10/2024
Hands-on review · unboxing, first flight and night flight test
Verdict
DJI Air 3S impressed in parts at night, but return to home was not fully accurate and landing drifted.
9.5
Billy Kyle
≈ estimated
15/10/2024
Hands-on review · camera, range and storage tests
Verdict
DJI Air 3S replaces the older everyday drone, thanks to its new 1-inch camera and higher speed.
9.0
DM Productions
≈ estimated
15/10/2024
Hands-on review · wind, camera and storage tests
Verdict
DJI Air 3S is a top-tier drone and strongly recommended, with the vertical video limit as its main downside.
9.0
RobHK
≈ estimated
15/10/2024
Long-term test · two months of travel flying
Verdict
DJI Air 3S has earned its place as a new primary travel drone, with wide reach and strong image quality.
9.5
Ian in London
≈ estimated
15/10/2024
Full review · low-light flying and new features
Verdict
DJI Air 3S is a major upgrade, especially for evening and night flying, with useful new features.

What reviewers agree on

Based on 24 · 46

Reviewers praise the image quality, telephoto camera and handy internal storage, but find it bulky and are split on battery life.
Praised
Mixed views
Criticised
Pick a topic to see who said what

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

9.0
pcmag.com
✓ explicit
21/01/2026
Lab and flight test · Mid-range drone
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is a top mid-range drone with a sharp dual camera and excellent low-light obstacle avoidance, but it is more drone than most beginners need.
9.0
space.com
✓ explicit
29/12/2024
Expert review · Mid-range drone
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is a stable, capable mid-range drone with better low-light footage and LiDAR, but only a small step up from the Air 3.
10
t3.com
✓ explicit
31/10/2024
Hands-on test · Dual camera
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is a smooth-flying, flexible drone for hobby and professional use with LiDAR for safe night flights, though it is plain-looking and not waterproof.
10
amateurphotographer.com
✓ explicit
26/12/2024
Photo test · Dual camera
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S gives excellent 10-bit images from both cameras and flies steadier than lighter drones, but expect 32–38 minutes per battery, not 45.
thedronegirl.com
16/02/2026
Not graded yet
9.0
techradar.com
✓ explicit
15/10/2024
Expert review · Iterative upgrade
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is a worthwhile step up from the Air 3, with better low-light images and LiDAR sensing, but it needs registration and real flights last 32–38 minutes.
9.0
tomsguide.com
✓ explicit
22/10/2024
Expert review · Dual camera
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is an easy-to-fly drone with excellent dual-camera footage and much better low-light obstacle sensing, though Air 3 owners get few upgrades.
9.0
androidpolice.com
✓ explicit
29/03/2025
Expert review · Dual camera
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is a clear upgrade with a 1-inch low-light camera and LiDAR sensing, but real flights run 32–35 minutes and it needs registration.
9.5
thedronegirl.com
≈ estimated
14/11/2024
Field test · Travel flying
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is a great travel drone that handled gusty Hawaiian beaches, packs small for flights and keeps flying long enough for several shoots a day.
9.0
cined.com
≈ estimated
25/10/2024
Expert review · Creator drone
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is a strong all-round travel drone with a low-light 1-inch camera and safer night flying, though bitrate dropped and registration is often needed.
9.6
techgearlab.com
✓ explicit
01/12/2025
Lab test · Dual camera
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S flies very steadily and tracks subjects well, with long battery life, but it tops out at 4K and needs FAA registration.
8.0
stuff.tv
✓ explicit
03/03/2026
Expert review · Dual camera
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is a strong mid-range drone with a 1-inch main camera, a 70mm zoom camera and long flights, but at 724g it faces stricter flying rules.
9.5
zdnet.com
≈ estimated
03/03/2026
Expert review · Low-light flying
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S shoots clean, consistent footage in low light and senses obstacles at night, though its 724g weight brings stricter rules in some countries.
drohnen.de
15/10/2024
Not graded yet
9.4
chip.de
✓ explicit
21/10/2024
Expert review · Dual camera
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is a versatile drone for serious hobby pilots, with strong low-light footage and LiDAR safety, but its 724g weight brings stricter flying rules.
9.0
drohnen.de
≈ estimated
15/10/2024
Comparison · Air 3S vs Air 3
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S improves on the Air 3 with a 1-inch main camera, night-ready LiDAR and far more storage, though the bitrate and flight time drop slightly.
9.0
monsieurjesaistout.fr
≈ estimated
16/10/2024
Upgrade review · Dual camera
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is a big image-quality upgrade thanks to its 1-inch main camera and LiDAR, but the tele camera is unchanged and the weight brings strict rules.
9.0
frandroid.com
✓ explicit
15/10/2024
Expert review · Dual camera
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is a strong mid-range drone with a great low-light 1-inch camera and safer night flying, but at 724g it falls under stricter flying rules.
10
lesnumeriques.com
✓ explicit
15/01/2025
Expert review · Dual camera
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is a high-performing mid-range drone with better low-light images and night obstacle sensing, though Air 3 owners gain little by upgrading.
9.0
cined.com
≈ estimated
25/10/2024
Expert review · All-rounder drone
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is an all-round drone for creators who want strong low-light footage and safe night flying, though its 724g weight means registration and stricter rules.
9.2
fotonerd.it
✓ explicit
14/01/2025
Expert review · Dual camera
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is a versatile mid-range drone with a 50MP 1-inch camera and safer night flying, but its 724g weight means registering it.
9.0
dronezine.it
≈ estimated
15/10/2024
Expert review · Low-light camera
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S is a versatile drone whose 1-inch camera and LiDAR shine in the dark, though real flight times stop well short of 45 minutes.
10
dronewatch.nl
✓ explicit
12/11/2024
Field test · Dual camera
Verdict
The DJI Air 3S shoots excellent low-light footage and adds LiDAR for safer flying, though real flights last 32–38 minutes and the obstacle avoidance overreacts.

Third-party reviews

Read buyer reviews on Amazon →

What we like about DJI Air 3S

  • Dual-camera system featuring a 1-inch CMOS primary sensor for superior image quality and 14 stops of dynamic range.
  • Omnidirectional obstacle sensing enhanced with forward-facing LiDAR for improved safety in low-light and nighttime conditions.
  • Significant 42GB-48GB of internal storage, reducing reliance on SD cards.
  • Strong flight performance with Level 6 wind resistance (up to 27 mph) and excellent stability.
  • Long battery life with a rated flight time of 45 minutes.
  • High-speed 4K/120fps slow-motion recording supported on both cameras.

What we don't like about DJI Air 3S

  • Fixed aperture on both lenses requires the use of ND filters for proper exposure control in daylight.
  • Weight exceeds 249g, requiring mandatory FAA registration and compliance with more stringent flight regulations.
  • More expensive than entry-level models, positioning it as a premium mid-range investment.
  • ActiveTrack subject tracking can occasionally lose focus in complex environments.
  • Lack of built-in anti-collision lighting mandated for night flights in certain regions, requiring external accessories.

Verdict

The DJI Air 3S is a high-performance travel drone featuring a dual-camera system with a 1-inch CMOS primary sensor (50MP, 24mm equivalent, f/1.8) and a 1/1.3-inch medium tele camera (48MP, 70mm, f/2.8), capturing up to 4K/60fps HDR video with 14 stops of dynamic range. Key characteristics include its 45-minute maximum flight time, 20km O4 video transmission, and 42GB of internal storage. Its primary pros are the upgraded nighttime omnidirectional obstacle sensing with forward-facing LiDAR for enhanced safety in low light, the versatility of the dual focal lengths, and efficient subject tracking via FocusTrack. Notable cons include its 724g takeoff weight which requires FAA registration, the lack of an adjustable aperture on either lens, and its inability to record video above 4K resolution.

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