The DJI Neo FPV drone has created fairly a buzz as an reasonably priced choice filled with DJI’s superior know-how, particularly for rookies within the FPV group. Whereas it definitely has some interesting options, there are a number of the explanation why, as an skilled FPV pilot, I’m selecting to not purchase the DJI Neo. On this evaluate, I’ll break down the important thing downsides of the DJI Neo and clarify why it may not be the precise match for extra seasoned pilots.
The DJI Neo is a kind of cinewhoops, which you’ll be able to be taught extra on this purchaser’s information: https://oscarliang.com/cinewhoop/
The place to Purchase?
Product Pages for the DJI Neo:
The Causes Why I’m Not Shopping for the DJI Neo
Right here’s why I’m passing on the DJI Neo:
Lack of Energy: The Neo’s motors lack the facility wanted for something past informal cruising. It maxes out shortly in guide mode, making it incapable of freestyle flying or performing acro maneuvers. In the event you’re anticipating any actual agility, you’ll be dissatisfied. The Neo is solely not constructed for that sort of efficiency.
Video High quality: The Neo’s picture high quality is noticeably inferior to DJI’s different FPV choices just like the Avata 2 or the DJI O3 Air Unit. The 4K decision sounds good on paper, however the footage lacks the element and dynamic vary that higher-end DJI drones ship, making it disappointing for these searching for skilled grade high quality.
Poor Wind Efficiency: Attributable to its light-weight design, the Neo struggles in windy circumstances. Even a average breeze may cause the drone to float, making it troublesome to manage and limiting its usability in outside environments.
Further Prices for Full Performance: Whereas the Neo is likely to be fairly reasonably priced, however should you don’t already personal DJI FPV goggles or distant controllers, anticipate to spend far more on the required gear. This shortly raises the overall funding far past the drone’s base value.
Merely put, the DJI Neo doesn’t fly effectively in comparison with different 2-inch BNF cinewhoops. Its flight efficiency is subpar, and the video high quality is a major downgrade from DJI’s different drones.
In the event you’ve already purchased the DJI Avata 2, like I’ve, there’s even much less purpose to purchase the Neo, because it seems like a downgrade in each FPV functionality and video high quality.
Who Ought to Skip the DJI Neo?
In the event you’ve constructed and flown customized FPV drones earlier than, the DJI Neo is prone to disappoint.
The Neo affords clean, easy-to-control flight, nevertheless it isn’t designed for the high-speed, dynamic maneuvers that skilled FPV pilots crave. Its restricted energy makes it a poor alternative for anybody accustomed to extra highly effective drones able to freestyle or superior acro strikes. You’ll outgrow its skills shortly.
And whereas it boasts 4K video, the footage is much from spectacular. It lacks the flat shade profile and post-processing flexibility you’d get with the DJI O3 or Avata. For informal customers, the digicam is likely to be adequate, however should you’re critical about picture high quality, the Neo doesn’t ship. A greater choice for these looking for a 2-inch cinewhoop with stable flight traits and video efficiency is the BetaFPV Pavo20 Professional with the DJI O3 Air Unit.
Who Is the DJI Neo For?
The DJI Neo does have its place—for sure sorts of customers.
In the event you’ve by no means flown an FPV drone and don’t thoughts the restrictions in digicam high quality and flight efficiency, the Neo is usually a respectable entry level into the world of FPV. It’s nice for cruising round and exploring FPV flight with out diving into the complexity of customized builds. The Neo additionally comes with some useful options not sometimes discovered on conventional FPV drones, like GPS for outside flying and positioning sensors for indoor use.
Moreover, the Neo’s light-weight and sturdy design make it crash-resistant, which is good for rookies. It’s far more forgiving than heavier drones just like the DJI Avata 2, which is understood for being inclined to break.
For many who already personal DJI digicam drones and are inquisitive about FPV, the Neo supplies an reasonably priced, low-risk solution to transition into the world of FPV flying. Its ease of use and flexibility make it a stable alternative for full rookies.
In the event you’re searching for extra reasonably priced choices, the NewBeeDrone VRDrone FPV package is one other entry-level alternative, however the DJI Neo affords superior picture high quality, albeit with a better price ticket.
Conclusion
In abstract, the DJI Neo isn’t an important match for knowledgeable FPV pilots. It lacks the facility, stability, and video high quality required for superior maneuvers {and professional} video seize, particularly in windy circumstances.
Nevertheless, for rookies who need an accessible, easy-to-fly FPV drone with out the steep studying curve, the DJI Neo is a viable choice. It’s an effective way to get into FPV flying with out an enormous funding, although you’ll doubtless must buy further DJI gear for an entire expertise.
You should purchase the DJI Neo from these distributors:
I’m additionally maintaining a tally of the FPV system used within the DJI Neo. If DJI releases a light-weight, standalone air unit (maybe the DJI O4 Lite), it might be a game-changer for small customized FPV builds, combining glorious picture high quality and video hyperlink with their newest flagship FPV goggles.