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 Mavic Air Review | 97 Data compared

Avg. price:~£750Max flight time:21 minVideo resolution:4K/30 fpsMax transmission distance:4 km

DJI Mavic Air Review: Compare 97 technical specifications and 65 expert and video reviews to see how this product ranks in the Drones category and whether it is worth buying.

7.2

Overall score

Score
7.2/ 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 68% of models
Score components

85%

6.9

Technical score

15%

8.5

Review score ( 27 · 38)

Review score 15% · 8.5 · based on 65 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. 2 more reviews are not scored yet.
▲Better than 68% of drones
6.9

Technical score

Technical score
6.9/ 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 67% of models
Score components

26%

6.7

Flight

24%

6.4

Camera

20%

8.5

Safety

16%

5.6

Connectivity

14%

7.4

Battery & Design

▲Better than 67% of drones
8.5

Review score

Review score
8.5/ 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 78% of models
Grades by review (65)
27 reviews: 10 with a printed score, 17 estimated from the review. 38 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 13
✓ explicit
7

2.7%

9.0

photographylife.com

2.7%

9.0

techradar.com

2.7%

8.5

theverge.com

2.7%

8.0

pcmag.com

2.7%

8.0

au.pcmag.com

2.7%

8.0

t3.com

2.7%

7.5

dpreview.com

≈ estimated
6

2.2%

9.5

ppa.com

2.2%

9.0

flitetest.com

2.2%

9.0

digital-photography-school.com

2.2%

8.0

videomaker.com

2.2%

8.0

techcrunch.com

1.1%

6.0

fstoppers.com

Video reviews 12

1.1%

9.5

Kai W

1.1%

9.5

Jeremy Siers

1.1%

9.0

Nick Cieslak 22

1.1%

9.0

DSLR Video Shooter

1.1%

9.0

TechMishka

1.1%

9.0

GSMArena Official

1.1%

9.0

FliteTest

1.1%

9.0

Jason Bradbury

1.1%

9.0

WetalkUAV

1.1%

8.0

TechTablets

0.5%

9.0

Engadget

0.5%

9.0

Devin Graham

estimated from the review
Shop star ratings are not part of this score.
▲Better than 78% of drones
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Best prices

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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 Mavic Air

Technical score
Technical score
6.9/ 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 67% of models
Score components:

26%

6.7

Flight

24%

6.4

Camera

20%

8.5

Safety

16%

5.6

Connectivity

14%

7.4

Battery & Design

6.9
Review score
Review score
8.5/ 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 78% of models
Grades by review (65)
27 reviews: 10 with a printed score, 17 estimated from the review. 38 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 13
✓ explicit
7

2.7%

9.0

photographylife.com

2.7%

9.0

techradar.com

2.7%

8.5

theverge.com

2.7%

8.0

pcmag.com

2.7%

8.0

au.pcmag.com

2.7%

8.0

t3.com

2.7%

7.5

dpreview.com

≈ estimated
6

2.2%

9.5

ppa.com

2.2%

9.0

flitetest.com

2.2%

9.0

digital-photography-school.com

2.2%

8.0

videomaker.com

2.2%

8.0

techcrunch.com

1.1%

6.0

fstoppers.com

Video reviews 12

1.1%

9.5

Kai W

1.1%

9.5

Jeremy Siers

1.1%

9.0

Nick Cieslak 22

1.1%

9.0

DSLR Video Shooter

1.1%

9.0

TechMishka

1.1%

9.0

GSMArena Official

1.1%

9.0

FliteTest

1.1%

9.0

Jason Bradbury

1.1%

9.0

WetalkUAV

1.1%

8.0

TechTablets

0.5%

9.0

Engadget

0.5%

9.0

Devin Graham

estimated from the review
Shop star ratings are not part of this score.
8.5
Popularity
Popularity
8.9/ 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 77% of models
Popularity:
DJI Mavic Air has a popularity score of 8.9 points, which is higher than that of 77.2% of products in this category.
8.9
Value for money
Value for money
7.0/ 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
▼ Worse than 54% of models
Score components:

60%

7.2

Overall score

40%

6.6

Price

7.0
Max flight time
21 min
Max flight time
21 min
▲ Better than 51% of models
Market range: <8 min – >40 min
This drone has a max flight time of 21 min, longer than 50.5% of drones.
Max flight distance
10 km
Max flight distance
10 km
▲ Better than 73% of models
Market range: <0.05 km – >24 km
This drone has a max flight distance of 10 km, farther than 72.9% of drones and equal to 5.5% of drones.
Max flight speed
19 m/s
Max flight speed
19 m/s
▲ Better than 78% of models
Market range: <4 m/s – >21 m/s
This drone has a max flight speed of 19 m/s, faster than 78.5% of drones and equal to 1.9% of drones.
Max wind resistance
10.5 m/s
Max wind resistance
10.5 m/s
▼ Worse than 55% of models
Market range: <3.3 m/s – >12 m/s
This drone has max wind resistance of 10.5 m/s, lower than 55.4% of drones and equal to 3.6% of drones.
Max service ceiling (ASL)
5,000 m
Max service ceiling (ASL)
5,000 m
▲ Better than 68% of models
Market range: <120 m – >6k m
This drone has a max service ceiling of 5,000 m, higher than 67.9% of drones and equal to 10.5% of drones.
Show more
What reviewers say
Video resolution
4K/30 fps
Video resolution
4K/30 fps
▲ Better than 58% of models
This drone records video at 4K/30 fps, higher than 58.4% of drones and equal to 20.3% 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
1/2.3"
Sensor size
1/2.3"
▼ Worse than 53% of models
This drone has a sensor size of 1/2.3", smaller than 52.8% of drones and equal to 12% of drones.
Main camera megapixels
12 MP
Main camera megapixels
12 MP
▼ Worse than 42% of models
Market range: <2 MP – >48 MP
This drone has a main camera resolution of 12 MP, higher than 41.3% of drones and equal to 16.7% of drones.
Max movie bitrate
100 Mbps
Max movie bitrate
100 Mbps
▼ Worse than 41% of models
Market range: <40 Mbps – >180 Mbps
This drone has a max movie bitrate of 100 Mbps, higher than 30.3% of drones and equal to 29% 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, GLONASS
GNSS systems supported
GPS, GLONASS
▲ Better than 50% of models
This drone supports GPS, GLONASS GNSS systems, which are more comprehensive than those of 49.8% and the same as those of 17.1%.
Obstacle sensing directions
forward/backward/downward
Obstacle sensing directions
forward/backward/downward
▲ Better than 76% of models
This drone senses obstacles in forward/backward/downward directions, which is more comprehensive than that of 75.9% and the same as that of 5.5%.
Show more
What reviewers say
Max transmission distance
4 km
Max transmission distance
4 km
▲ Better than 59% of models
Market range: <0.05 km – >15 km
This drone has a max transmission distance of 4 km, farther than 59.2% of drones and equal to 3.1% of drones.
Maximum range varies by region; CE/SRRC/MIC limits can be lower.
Transmission latency
240 ms
Transmission latency
240 ms
▼ Worse than 94% of models
Market range: <100 ms – >220 ms
This drone has transmission latency of 240 ms, higher than 94.4% of drones and equal to 2.8% of drones.
Video transmission system
Enhanced Wi-Fi
Video transmission system
Enhanced Wi-Fi
▲ Better than 57% of models
This drone uses Enhanced Wi-Fi for video transmission, which is more advanced than the system used by 56.9% and the same as that used by 1%.
Live view quality
720p@30 fps
Live view quality
720p@30 fps
▼ Worse than 57% of models
This drone offers live view quality of 720p@30 fps, lower-quality than 56.8% of drones and equal to 22.9% 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
What reviewers say
Battery capacity
2,375 mAh
Battery capacity
2,375 mAh
▲ Better than 60% of models
Market range: <550 mAh – >5k mAh
This drone has a battery capacity of 2,375 mAh, larger than 59.6% of drones.
Battery energy
27.43 Wh
Battery energy
27.43 Wh
▲ Better than 69% of models
Market range: <3.7 Wh – >77 Wh
This drone has battery energy of 27.43 Wh, higher than 68.8% of drones.
Charging time
55 min
Charging time
55 min
▲ Better than 89% of models
Market range: <55 min – >180 min
This drone charges in 55 min, faster than 89.4% of drones and equal to 1.3% of drones.
Weight
430 g
Weight
430 g
▼ Worse than 69% of models
Market range: <80 g – >920 g
This drone weighs 430 g, heavier than 69.1% 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 Mavic Air vs the average drone

246810TotalFlightCameraSafetyConnectivityBattery & Design
  • Supports obstacle detection
    Obstacle detection
    yes
    ▲ Better than 70% of models
    This drone supports obstacle detection, while the average drone does not.
  • 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
  • 9 km longer flight distance
    Max flight distance
    10 km
    ▲ Better than 73% of models
    Market range: <0.05 km – >24 km
    This drone has a longer max flight distance than the average drone (10 km vs 1 km). The average drone can fly up to 1 km.
    10 km vs 1 km
  • 4 m/s faster flight speed
    Max flight speed
    19 m/s
    ▲ Better than 78% of models
    Market range: <4 m/s – >21 m/s
    This drone reaches a higher max flight speed than the average drone (19 m/s vs 15 m/s). The average drone reaches 15 m/s.
    19 m/s vs 15 m/s
  • 0.2 m tighter hover accuracy
    Hover accuracy (horizontal)
    0.1 m
    ★ Better than 95% of models
    Market range: <0.3 m – >1.4 m
    This drone has better horizontal hover accuracy than the average drone (0.1 m vs 0.3 m). The average drone has horizontal hover accuracy of 0.3 m.
    0.1 m vs 0.3 m
  • Captures RAW photos
    RAW photo capture
    yes
    ▲ Better than 67% of models
    This drone can capture RAW photos, while the average drone cannot.
  • Supports QuickShots
    QuickShots
    yes
    ▲ Better than 68% of models
    This drone supports QuickShots, 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.
  • 9 km longer flight distance
    Max flight distance
    10 km
    ▲ Better than 73% of models
    Market range: <0.05 km – >24 km
    This drone has a longer max flight distance than the average drone (10 km vs 1 km). The average drone can fly up to 1 km.
    10 km vs 1 km
  • 4 m/s faster flight speed
    Max flight speed
    19 m/s
    ▲ Better than 78% of models
    Market range: <4 m/s – >21 m/s
    This drone reaches a higher max flight speed than the average drone (19 m/s vs 15 m/s). The average drone reaches 15 m/s.
    19 m/s vs 15 m/s
  • 1,500 m higher service ceiling
    Max service ceiling (ASL)
    5,000 m
    ▲ Better than 68% of models
    Market range: <120 m – >6k m
    This drone can fly at a higher max service ceiling than the average drone (5000 m vs 3500 m). The average drone reaches 3500 m.
    5,000 m vs 3,500 m
  • 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
  • Captures RAW photos
    RAW photo capture
    yes
    ▲ Better than 67% of models
    This drone can capture RAW photos, while the average drone cannot.
  • 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)
  • 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.
  • 8 GB more internal storage
    Internal storage
    8 GB
    ▲ Better than 84% of models
    Market range: <0 GB – >8 GB
    This drone has more internal storage than the average drone (8 GB vs 0 GB). The average drone has 0 GB of internal storage.
    8 GB vs 0 GB
  • More color profile options
    Color profiles
    Normal, D-Log
    ▲ Better than 74% of models
    This drone supports Normal, D-Log color profiles, while the average drone supports Normal.
    Normal, D-Log vs Normal
  • Richer manual controls
    Manual camera controls
    partial
    ▲ Better than 52% of models
    This drone offers partial manual camera controls, while the average drone offers no.
    No shutter-speed control.
    partial vs no
  • 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.
  • Supports obstacle detection
    Obstacle detection
    yes
    ▲ Better than 70% of models
    This drone supports obstacle detection, while the average drone does not.
  • 0.2 m tighter hover accuracy
    Hover accuracy (horizontal)
    0.1 m
    ★ Better than 95% of models
    Market range: <0.3 m – >1.4 m
    This drone has better horizontal hover accuracy than the average drone (0.1 m vs 0.3 m). The average drone has horizontal hover accuracy of 0.3 m.
    0.1 m vs 0.3 m
  • 7 more flight modes
    N. of intelligent flight modes
    11
    ★ Better than 98% of models
    Market range: <0 – >8
    This drone offers more intelligent flight modes than the average drone (11 vs 4). The average drone offers 4 intelligent flight modes.
    ActiveTrack, Follow Me, POI, Waypoint Flight, TapFly, QuickShots, Panorama, Terrain Follow, Course Lock, Home Lock, SmartCapture
    11 vs 4
  • 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.
  • Supports TapFly
    TapFly
    yes
    ▲ Better than 62% of models
    This drone supports TapFly, while the average drone does not.
  • Includes propeller guards
    Propeller guards
    yes
    ▲ Better than 67% of models
    This drone has propeller guards, while the average drone does not. 33.3% of drones offer them.
  • Supports smartphone control
    Smartphone control
    yes
    ▲ Better than 50% of models
    This drone supports smartphone control, while the average drone does not.
  • More polished companion app
    Companion app
    DJI GO 4
    ▲ Better than 79% of models
    This drone uses the DJI GO 4 companion app, while the average drone uses HS FPV.
    DJI GO 4 vs HS FPV
  • 3 km longer transmission range
    Max transmission distance
    4 km
    ▲ Better than 59% of models
    Market range: <0.05 km – >15 km
    This drone has a longer max transmission distance than the average drone (4 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.
    4 km vs 1 km
  • 35 min shorter charging time
    Charging time
    55 min
    ▲ Better than 89% of models
    Market range: <55 min – >180 min
    This drone charges faster than the average drone (55 min vs 90 min). The average drone charges in 90 min.
    55 min vs 90 min
  • 107 mm shorter body length
    Length
    168 mm
    ▲ Better than 82% of models
    Market range: <117 mm – >385 mm
    This drone is shorter than the average drone (168 mm vs 275 mm). The average drone is 275 mm long.
    168 mm vs 275 mm
  • 10.25 Wh more battery energy
    Battery energy
    27.43 Wh
    ▲ Better than 69% of models
    Market range: <3.7 Wh – >77 Wh
    This drone has higher battery energy than the average drone (27.4 Wh vs 17.18 Wh). The average drone battery has 17.18 Wh of energy.
    27.43 Wh vs 17.18 Wh
  • More modern charging port
    Charging interface
    proprietary
    ▼ Worse than 42% of models
    This drone uses proprietary for charging, while the average drone uses micro-USB.
    proprietary vs micro-USB
  • 57 mm narrower width
    Width
    184 mm
    ▲ Better than 71% of models
    Market range: <114 mm – >387.5 mm
    This drone is narrower than the average drone (184 mm vs 241 mm). The average drone width is 241 mm.
    184 mm vs 241 mm
  • 175 mAh more battery capacity
    Battery capacity
    2,375 mAh
    ▲ Better than 60% of models
    Market range: <550 mAh – >5k mAh
    This drone has a larger battery capacity than the average drone (2375 mAh vs 2200 mAh). The average drone battery has a capacity of 2200 mAh.
    2,375 mAh vs 2,200 mAh
  • 110 ms higher latency
    Transmission latency
    240 ms
    ▼ Worse than 94% of models
    Market range: <100 ms – >220 ms
    This drone has higher transmission latency than the average drone (240 ms vs 130 ms). The average drone has transmission latency of 130 ms.
    240 ms vs 130 ms
  • Fewer GNSS systems
    GNSS systems supported
    GPS, GLONASS
    ▲ Better than 50% of models
    This drone supports GPS, GLONASS GNSS systems, while the average drone supports GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou.
    GPS, GLONASS vs GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou
  • Narrower aperture
    Aperture
    f/2.8
    ▼ Worse than 64% of models
    This drone has a narrower aperture than the average drone (f/2.8 vs f/2). The average drone uses an aperture of f/2.
    f/2.8 vs f/2
  • Lower video resolution
    Video resolution
    4K/30 fps
    ▲ Better than 58% of models
    This drone offers lower video resolution than the average drone (4K/30 fps vs 4K/100 fps). The average drone offers a video resolution of 4K/100 fps.
    4K/30 fps vs 4K/100 fps
  • More basic transmission system
    Video transmission system
    Enhanced Wi-Fi
    ▲ Better than 57% of models
    This drone uses Enhanced Wi-Fi for video transmission, while the average drone uses SkyLink 2.0.
    Enhanced Wi-Fi vs SkyLink 2.0
  • Lower live view quality
    Live view quality
    720p@30 fps
    ▼ Worse than 57% of models
    This drone has worse live view quality than the average drone (720p@30 fps vs 1080p@25 fps). The average drone offers live view quality of 1080p@25 fps.
    720p@30 fps vs 1080p@25 fps
  • 0.2 m/s lower wind resistance
    Max wind resistance
    10.5 m/s
    ▼ Worse than 55% of models
    Market range: <3.3 m/s – >12 m/s
    This drone handles weaker wind than the average drone (10.5 m/s vs 10.7 m/s). The average drone handles wind up to 10.7 m/s.
    10.5 m/s vs 10.7 m/s
  • 5 years older release date
    Release date
    2018
    ▼ Worse than 83% of models
    Market range: <2k – >2k
    This drone is older than the average drone (2018 vs 2023). The average drone was released in 2023.
    January 2018
    2018 vs 2023
  • 3.75x more expensive
    DJI Mavic Air is more expensive than the average drone (£750 vs £200).
    £750 vs £200
  • 0.2 m/s lower wind resistance
    Max wind resistance
    10.5 m/s
    ▼ Worse than 55% of models
    Market range: <3.3 m/s – >12 m/s
    This drone handles weaker wind than the average drone (10.5 m/s vs 10.7 m/s). The average drone handles wind up to 10.7 m/s.
    10.5 m/s vs 10.7 m/s
  • 5 years older release date
    Release date
    2018
    ▼ Worse than 83% of models
    Market range: <2k – >2k
    This drone is older than the average drone (2018 vs 2023). The average drone was released in 2023.
    January 2018
    2018 vs 2023
  • 1 m/s slower descent speed
    Max descent speed
    3 m/s
    ▼ Worse than 73% of models
    Market range: <2 m/s – >8 m/s
    This drone descends more slowly than the average drone (3 m/s vs 4 m/s). The average drone descends at 4 m/s.
    Value reflects maximum descent speed in higher-performance flight mode.
    3 m/s vs 4 m/s
  • 1 m/s slower ascent speed
    Max ascent speed
    4 m/s
    ▼ Worse than 82% of models
    Market range: <3 m/s – >8 m/s
    This drone climbs more slowly than the average drone (4 m/s vs 5 m/s). The average drone climbs at 5 m/s.
    Value reflects maximum ascent speed in higher-performance flight mode.
    4 m/s vs 5 m/s
  • Narrower aperture
    Aperture
    f/2.8
    ▼ Worse than 64% of models
    This drone has a narrower aperture than the average drone (f/2.8 vs f/2). The average drone uses an aperture of f/2.
    f/2.8 vs f/2
  • Lower video resolution
    Video resolution
    4K/30 fps
    ▲ Better than 58% of models
    This drone offers lower video resolution than the average drone (4K/30 fps vs 4K/100 fps). The average drone offers a video resolution of 4K/100 fps.
    4K/30 fps vs 4K/100 fps
  • 3 x lower digital zoom
    Digital zoom
    0 x
    ▼ Worse than 59% of models
    Market range: <0 x – >16 x
    This drone offers less digital zoom than the average drone (0 x vs 3 x). The average drone offers 3 x of digital zoom.
    0 x vs 3 x
  • 3,200 ISO lower max ISO
    Max ISO
    3,200 ISO
    ▼ Worse than 71% of models
    Market range: <3.2k ISO – >25.6k ISO
    This drone reaches a lower max ISO than the average drone (3200 ISO vs 6400 ISO). The average drone reaches 6400 ISO.
    3,200 ISO vs 6,400 ISO
  • Fewer GNSS systems
    GNSS systems supported
    GPS, GLONASS
    ▲ Better than 50% of models
    This drone supports GPS, GLONASS GNSS systems, while the average drone supports GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou.
    GPS, GLONASS 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.
  • 0.5 m/s slower tracking speed
    Max subject tracking speed
    12 m/s
    ▼ Worse than 51% of models
    Market range: <8 m/s – >20 m/s
    This drone can track subjects at a lower speed than the average drone (12 m/s vs 12.5 m/s). The average drone tracks subjects at 12.5 m/s.
    12 m/s vs 12.5 m/s
  • 110 ms higher latency
    Transmission latency
    240 ms
    ▼ Worse than 94% of models
    Market range: <100 ms – >220 ms
    This drone has higher transmission latency than the average drone (240 ms vs 130 ms). The average drone has transmission latency of 130 ms.
    240 ms vs 130 ms
  • More basic transmission system
    Video transmission system
    Enhanced Wi-Fi
    ▲ Better than 57% of models
    This drone uses Enhanced Wi-Fi for video transmission, while the average drone uses SkyLink 2.0.
    Enhanced Wi-Fi vs SkyLink 2.0
  • Lower live view quality
    Live view quality
    720p@30 fps
    ▼ Worse than 57% of models
    This drone has worse live view quality than the average drone (720p@30 fps vs 1080p@25 fps). The average drone offers live view quality of 1080p@25 fps.
    720p@30 fps vs 1080p@25 fps
  • More basic controller
    Controller model
    S01A
    ▼ Worse than 59% of models
    This drone uses the S01A controller, while the average drone uses LiteRadio 4 SE.
    S1A vs LiteRadio 4 SE
  • 74.8% higher weight
    Weight
    430 g
    ▼ Worse than 69% of models
    Market range: <80 g – >920 g
    This drone is heavier than the average drone (430 g vs 246 g). The average drone weighs 246 g.
    430 g vs 246 g
  • Plainer color finish
    Color
    black, white, red
    ▼ Worse than 88% of models
    This drone comes in black, white, red, while the average drone comes in gray.
    black, white, red vs gray

Video reviews

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

9.0
Nick Cieslak 22
≈ estimated
15/12/2023
Hands-on review · wind flight and buying advice for used models
Verdict
DJI Mavic Air is still a great-flying, sturdy drone that holds up today, though you can only buy it used.
9.0
DSLR Video Shooter
≈ estimated
03/05/2018
Hands-on review · filmmaker's view of flights and footage
Verdict
DJI Mavic Air is a strong portable pick for filmmakers, though its long-range transmission is weak and a real drawback.
9.0
TechMishka
≈ estimated
09/03/2018
Hands-on review · weeks of use, pros and cons
Verdict
DJI Mavic Air is expensive, but you get what you pay for.
9.5
Kai W
≈ estimated
08/03/2018
Hands-on review · obstacle avoidance, Wi-Fi and footage tests
Verdict
DJI Mavic Air balances form and function well and packs easily for 4K shots.
9.0
GSMArena Official
≈ estimated
03/03/2018
Hands-on review · first flights and camera comparison
Verdict
DJI Mavic Air is a good first drone for the price: compact, with footage good enough for most needs.
9.0
FliteTest
≈ estimated
01/03/2018
Hands-on review · crash, wind and range tests
Verdict
DJI Mavic Air is the one I'd buy with my own money over the Mavic Pro, despite its shorter flight time.
9.5
Jeremy Siers
≈ estimated
22/02/2018
Long hands-on review · camera, flight and range impressions
Verdict
DJI Mavic Air is highly recommended for most people, with only minor nitpicks.
8.0
TechTablets
≈ estimated
19/02/2018
Full review · 4K footage, firmware issues and flight time
Verdict
DJI Mavic Air shoots strong 4K, but its flight time is short, its updates are glitchy and it is pricey.
9.0
Jason Bradbury
≈ estimated
05/02/2018
Drone test · unboxing and flight test compared with the Mavic Pro
Verdict
DJI Mavic Air is the one I'd pick as a first DJI drone over the Spark and Pro, though it is not a Pro replacement.
9.0
WetalkUAV
≈ estimated
23/01/2018
Full review · test flights and sport mode
Verdict
DJI Mavic Air is quiet, stable and good-looking, with good images and a slight edge over the Spark.

What reviewers agree on

Based on 28 · 40

Reviewers love how small and portable it is, with good obstacle sensing, but short flight time and weak range are common complaints.
Praised
Mixed views
Criticised
Pick a topic to see who said what

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

6.0
fstoppers.com
≈ estimated
14/02/2018
Expert review · Travel drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a small, agile travel drone that films steady 4K in moderate wind, but its Wi-Fi link and short flights hold it back.
8.0
pcmag.com
✓ explicit
04/09/2019
Expert review · Folding drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a well-designed folding drone with sharp 4K video and obstacle sensing on three sides, but flights last only about 18 minutes.
8.0
videomaker.com
≈ estimated
01/02/2018
Expert review · Foldable travel drone
Verdict
DJI Mavic Air is a compact travel drone for enthusiasts, but its Wi-Fi link and 21-minute battery make the Mavic Pro the better pick for long-range flying.
8.0
t3.com
✓ explicit
16/04/2021
Expert review · Travel drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a light, folding drone that suits travel well, with steady 4K and dependable obstacle sensing, though flights last only 21 minutes.
9.0
digital-photography-school.com
≈ estimated
09/12/2018
Expert review · Photo drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a tiny, sturdy and fast drone with steady 4K video, but its short flights and small sensor limit low-light shooting.
9.0
photographylife.com
✓ explicit
01/04/2018
Expert review · Camera drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a light, fast and easy-to-fly drone with steady 4K, but its small sensor struggles in low light and its battery runs out fast.
9.5
ppa.com
≈ estimated
20/10/2026
Expert review · Photo drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a small, powerful drone with detailed 4K images and good obstacle sensing, though its Wi-Fi link is less dependable.
8.5
theverge.com
✓ explicit
31/01/2018
Hands-on review · Folding drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a light, foldable drone for travelers that dodges obstacles well, but flights fall short of the claimed 21 minutes and its small sensor struggles with contrast.
8.0
techcrunch.com
≈ estimated
29/01/2018
Hands-on review · Pocket drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a pocketable 4K drone that holds steady even in wind, but its roughly 21-minute flights mean you'll want spare batteries.
7.5
dpreview.com
✓ explicit
28/02/2019
In-depth test · Camera drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a top travel pick for hobbyists, with steady 4K and smart obstacle avoidance, but its small sensor and Wi-Fi link rule out serious production work.
9.0
techradar.com
✓ explicit
31/07/2018
Hands-on review · Consumer drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is the best pick for most buyers, being fast, easy and well protected, though you get only about 18 minutes per battery and 4km of range.
8.0
au.pcmag.com
✓ explicit
05/09/2019
Lab test · Folding drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a compact 4K drone with strong panorama modes and obstacle avoidance that steers around objects, held back by roughly 18-minute flights.
9.0
flitetest.com
≈ estimated
02/03/2018
Flight test · Folding drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a fast, surprisingly tough little 4K drone, but real flights last only about 15 minutes and its Wi-Fi link limits range.
9.5
drohnen.de
≈ estimated
08/04/2018
Feature overview · Compact travel drone
Verdict
DJI Mavic Air suits travelers who want portable 4K and automated shots, but 18–21-minute flights and a Wi-Fi range of about 2.5 miles hold it back.
9.0
spiegel.de
≈ estimated
13/02/2018
Hands-on test · Travel drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a steady-flying, compact travel drone with smooth stabilized 4K, held back by unreliable gesture control and only about 20 minutes per battery.
9.0
welt.de
≈ estimated
24/01/2018
Expert review · Foldable 4K drone
Verdict
DJI Mavic Air is a foldable 4K drone with a stable gimbal and gesture-controlled shots that suits beginners, though its Wi-Fi link and short flights hold it back.
8.0
chip.de
≈ estimated
23/01/2018
Hands-on test · Travel drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a sturdy 430g folding drone that suits travelling beginners, but short 16–18 minute flights make spare batteries a must.
7.2
computerbild.de
✓ explicit
08/02/2018
Hands-on test · Foldable drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air gives hobbyists a lot of high-end features in a small folding body, but its Wi-Fi link limits range in towns and it whines loudly in flight.
8.0
heise.de
≈ estimated
06/04/2018
Review · Foldable 4K drone
Verdict
DJI Mavic Air is a foldable 4K drone with a 3-axis gimbal that suits travel, but real flights last only 16–18 minutes.
5.0
awesomewild.de
≈ estimated
15/11/2018
Field test · Travel drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air suits adventurers who need light gear, flying steadily even in wind, though real flights last only 15–18 minutes instead of the 21 promised.
9.0
frandroid.com
✓ explicit
05/06/2018
Expert review · Travel drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air combines a Spark-sized body with near Mavic Pro performance and steady 4K, but short flights and weak low-light shots hold it back.
8.0
uneboleedair.fr
≈ estimated
18/04/2018
Review · Solid, portable drone
Verdict
DJI Mavic Air is a solid, portable 4K drone with automatic shot modes, but it flies for only 15–18 minutes and struggles in low light.
9.5
xataka.com
≈ estimated
23/04/2018
Hands-on review · Foldable drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air packs steady 4K video and smart flight aids into a folding body as small as the Spark, but flights of 16–18 minutes and a Wi-Fi link hold it back.
9.0
es.gizmodo.com
≈ estimated
25/01/2018
Hands-on review · Foldable drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a fast, very portable folding drone with steady 4K video, but you will need extra batteries and its Wi-Fi signal can falter in cities.
9.0
es.digitaltrends.com
≈ estimated
09/08/2021
Hands-on test · Foldable drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a compact, easy-to-fly all-rounder that hovers rock-steady and dodges obstacles on its own, though its camera is weaker in low light than the Mavic Pro's.
9.5
dronezine.it
≈ estimated
07/02/2018
Expert review · Folding drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air hovers rock-steady and senses obstacles well, which suits beginners, but its Wi-Fi link limits range and flights last under 20 minutes.
tweakers.net
05/04/2018
Not graded yet
8.0
dronewatch.nl
✓ explicit
15/02/2018
Field test · Travel drone
Verdict
The DJI Mavic Air is a compact, 430g folding 4K drone with strong safety features, but its battery lasts only 16–18 minutes and the motors are loud.
tweakers.net
27/01/2018
Not graded yet

Third-party reviews

Read buyer reviews on Amazon →

What we like about DJI Mavic Air

  • Extremely compact and foldable design, small enough to fit in a jacket pocket.
  • High-quality 4K UHD video recording at a 100 Mbps bitrate, addressing previous quality issues.
  • Comprehensive safety features including forward, backward, and downward obstacle avoidance sensors.
  • 8GB of internal storage serves as a backup if you forget your MicroSD card.
  • Innovative automated flight modes like 'Asteroid' and 'Boomerang' for professional-looking shots.
  • Sturdy build quality that remains durable even after minor crashes.

What we don't like about DJI Mavic Air

  • Relatively short real-world battery life, often averaging 15–18 minutes compared to the advertised 21.
  • Uses Wi-Fi for video transmission rather than OcuSync, leading to poorer range and connection stability in urban areas.
  • Lacks a secondary control wheel on the remote for quick exposure adjustments.
  • No D-Log or Log profile support for advanced color grading in post-production.
  • Noticeable image noise and limited dynamic range due to the small 1/2.3-inch sensor.
  • Video recording above 30fps results in significant cropping of the frame.

Verdict

The DJI Mavic Air is an ultra-portable, foldable drone weighing just 430g, featuring a 1/2.3” CMOS sensor capable of capturing 12MP stills and 4K video at 30 fps with a high 100 Mbps bitrate. It is equipped with a 3-axis mechanical gimbal for stabilization, 8GB of internal storage, and FlightAutonomy 2.0 with seven onboard cameras for three-directional environment sensing (forward, backward, and downward). Key pros include its extreme portability, high-speed performance reaching 68.4 kph in Sport Mode, and advanced features like APAS for obstacle avoidance and 32MP Sphere Panoramas. However, its main cons include a relatively short flight time of approximately 21 minutes, reliance on an enhanced Wi-Fi transmission system that lacks the range of OcuSync, and the absence of side-facing sensors for full obstacle detection.

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