The DJI Neo, a palm-sized drone packed with convenient automated features, promises an engaging flight experience for vloggers and casual users alike. Weighing just 135 grams with its battery, it offers a reasonable 18-minute flight time, making it both portable and user-friendly. With an affordable price point of $199, this compact drone seems like a dream come true for drone enthusiasts on a budget.
This article will guide you through the Neo’s features, from its 4K 30 FPS filming capabilities to its 12-megapixel camera. While it shines in ease-of-use and safety, there’s a trade-off in camera quality and lack of advanced settings. Designed for beginners and indoor use, the Neo aims to win hearts with its versatility and simplicity rather than professional-grade imaging.
DJI Neo Review: Compact Vlog Drone
The DJI Neo is a new addition to DJI’s lineup of drones, designed specifically for vloggers and beginners. This small, lightweight drone comes equipped with impressive specs for its size and price, making it a compelling option for those looking to dip their toes into drone videography. Let’s dive into what makes this $199 drone tick, from design and build quality to camera performance and beyond.
Design and Build Quality
Compact and Lightweight
One of the standout features of the DJI Neo is its compact and lightweight design. Weighing only 135 grams with the battery, it’s incredibly portable, fitting easily into a small bag or even a large pocket. This makes it convenient to carry around for spontaneous vlogging sessions, travel, and outdoor adventures. Despite its small size, it manages to pack in a lot of technology, making it a versatile drone for various scenarios.
Durable Materials
Durability is crucial, especially for drones that might encounter rough landings or minor crashes. Fortunately, the DJI Neo is constructed with high-quality, durable materials. Although it’s lightweight, it doesn’t feel flimsy. The build quality is impressive, with well-fitted parts and a sturdy exterior that can handle casual use and crashes typical of a beginner’s learning curve.
First Impression Holding the Drone
The first time you hold the DJI Neo, you’ll appreciate its thoughtful design. It’s sleek and modern, with a minimalist aesthetic. The drone’s compactness is immediately noticeable, and it feels solid in hand despite its lightweight nature. The built-in prop guards are a reassuring feature, adding an extra layer of safety.
Pricing and Value
Affordability at $199
At just $199, the DJI Neo is remarkably affordable, especially considering its feature set. Many drones with similar capabilities cost significantly more, making the Neo an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. This price point opens up drone videography to a broader audience, including beginners and hobbyists.
Comparison to Other Drones in the Same Price Range
When compared to other drones in the same price range, the DJI Neo stands out due to its advanced features and DJI-specific technology. Many competitors in this price bracket offer fewer features, lower build quality, and less reliable performance. The Neo includes enhanced flight modes, a decent camera, and robust safety features, providing excellent value for its cost.
Is It Worth the Money?
Considering its features, build quality, and performance, the DJI Neo offers substantial value for its price. It’s an excellent entry-level drone for those new to the hobby or anyone needing a compact, portable option for casual use. While it may not satisfy professional videographers due to its limitations in camera quality and lack of adjustable settings, it’s certainly worth the money for its intended audience.
Specifications Overview
Detailed Camera Capabilities
The DJI Neo boasts a 12-megapixel camera capable of recording in both 4K at 30 frames per second and 1080p. This is quite impressive for a drone in this price range. The camera provides a solid starting point for those interested in aerial photography and videography, although it doesn’t offer professional-grade image quality.
Battery Life and Performance
Equipped with a 1435mAh battery, the Neo promises up to 18 minutes of flight time under ideal conditions. In real-world use, however, you can expect around 12 to 13 minutes. This is still respectable for a drone of its size and price, allowing ample time for short filming sessions or casual flights.
Flight Modes and Features
The Neo comes with a variety of flight modes including Follow, Drone Circle, and Rocket. These automated features make it easier for beginners to capture dynamic shots without extensive piloting skills. The flight modes enhance the user experience, making it simpler to create interesting and cinematic footage.
Camera and Image Quality
4K and 1080p Recording Modes
The DJI Neo’s ability to shoot in 4K at 30 FPS and 1080p gives users flexibility in video resolution depending on their needs. Whether capturing detailed scenic views or smooth, fast-moving subjects, these recording modes provide versatility.
12-Megapixel Camera Performance
The 12-megapixel camera delivers decent still photos, suitable for social media and personal archives. While it won’t replace a high-end DSLR or mirrorless camera, it’s more than adequate for casual photography and quick snaps of your adventures.
Lack of Adjustable Settings
One significant drawback is the lack of adjustable camera settings. Users cannot tweak sharpness, saturation, or other attributes, which limits creative control over the final image. This makes the Neo less appealing to higher-level photographers who crave manual adjustments.
Battery Performance
Battery Details (1435mAh)
The 1435mAh battery is a highlight of the DJI Neo, providing a good balance between weight and performance. It’s easy to insert and remove, and its compact size ensures it doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the drone.
Real-World Flight Time
In practical terms, you can expect around 12 to 13 minutes of flight time from a full charge. While this falls short of the advertised 18 minutes, it’s still plenty for quick jaunts and capturing essential footage.
Charging Time and Convenience
Charging the DJI Neo’s battery is straightforward and relatively quick. The convenience of being able to top up the battery fast ensures that you spend more time flying and less time waiting around.
Flight Experience
Ease of Use
The DJI Neo excels in user-friendliness. Its controls are intuitive, and the various flight modes make it easy for beginners to get the hang of flying. The learning curve is minimal, which means you’ll be up and running in no time.
Operating Without Phone/Controller
One of the standout features is the Neo’s ability to operate without needing a mobile phone or separate controller. Built-in smart settings allow users to control the drone using buttons on the device itself, making it incredibly convenient for spontaneous flights.
Various Flight Modes Tested (Follow, Drone Circle, Rocket)
The pre-programmed flight modes work well and are fun to use. The Follow mode keeps the drone focused on you, while Drone Circle and Rocket offer dynamic angles with minimal input. These modes make capturing creative shots accessible even for novice pilots.
Control Options
Built-In Smart Settings
The built-in smart settings of the DJI Neo allow for quick operation without needing additional devices. Users can simply toggle through various flight modes and controls on the drone itself, making it highly convenient for on-the-go use.
Compatibility with Multiple Controllers
The Neo is compatible with multiple controllers, like the DJI RC-N3. This gives users additional control options and enhances the overall flying experience, providing more precise maneuvers and longer range.
User Experience with the DJI RC-N3
Using the DJI RC-N3 controller with the Neo elevates the flight experience. The controller is ergonomic and straightforward, offering better handling and more advanced controls for those who crave a bit more precision.
Storage Capabilities
Onboard Storage of 22GB
The Neo comes with 22GB of onboard storage, which is quite generous for its size. This eliminates the need to carry around additional SD cards, simplifying the user experience.
Lack of External Storage Options
A notable limitation is the lack of external storage options. While 22GB is adequate for most casual users, those planning longer shoots may find this restrictive.
How Storage Impacts Usage
The onboard storage is sufficient for short sessions but may require frequent offloading on longer shoots. Having a fixed amount of storage makes it crucial to manage your footage wisely and offload it regularly to maximize shooting time.
Safety Features
Built-In Prop Guards
The DJI Neo includes built-in prop guards, providing a layer of safety by protecting both the drone and any obstacles it might encounter. This feature makes the Neo safer to operate indoors and more suitable for beginners.
No Obstacle Avoidance
While the Neo does not have advanced obstacle avoidance systems, its other safety features and compact design help mitigate risk during flight. However, this limitation makes it less suitable for more complex, obstacle-rich environments.
Suitability for Indoor Use and Children
The Neo’s size, built-in prop guards, and intuitive controls make it highly suitable for indoor use and safe enough for children. This makes it a perfect first drone for young enthusiasts and those looking to practice their piloting skills indoors.
Conclusion
Summary of Key Points
The DJI Neo is a compact, user-friendly drone ideal for beginners and casual users. Its lightweight design, durable build, and affordable price make it an excellent entry-level option. With solid camera capabilities, decent battery performance, and various intuitive flight modes, it offers good value for its cost.
Is the DJI Neo a Good Buy?
For those seeking a fun, easy-to-use drone for casual vlogging, indoor flights, or as an introduction to drone piloting, the DJI Neo is an excellent choice. Its limitations, such as the lack of adjustable camera settings and external storage, are minor compared to the overall value provided.
Final Thoughts and Recommendations
The DJI Neo delivers a satisfying flying experience with ample features for its price point. While it may not meet the needs of professional videographers or those seeking high-end image quality, it’s a fantastic option for beginners and recreational users. If you’re looking for an affordable, easy-to-use drone to start your aerial adventures, the DJI Neo is a worthy investment.
It’s finally here, the DJI Neo, a small vlog drone with automated features.
The Neo weighs 135 grams with a battery and can fly up to 18 minutes. Is this the right drone for your next adventure?
Get Your Part 107 & Start Making 💵 Money 💵 With Your Drone👇🏻
Part 107: https://pilotinstitute.com/course/par…
Other Pilot Institute Courses 👇🏻
🗺️ 📍 Mapping: https://pilotinstitute.com/course/map…
📸🏠 Real Estate: https://pilotinstitute.com/course/rea…
🍺 JOIN THE BREW CREW TO GET ACCESS TO PERKS: 🍺
/ @originaldobo
==========================================
My Design Store ==========================================
♪♪ Like the Music? Hit the link and checkout Artlist, the provider of all the tracks you hear on the channel: https://bit.ly/2A3sLYN ♪♪
👕 Buy all my merch “basically just a shirt but it’s super posh!” https://teespring.com/stores/flight-a… 👕
My Latest Gear Here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/originaldobo
Official Brand Partner: https://www.Drone-Works.com
SOCIAL
==========================================
🐦 Twitter – /originaldobo
📸 Instagram – /originaldobo
👥 Facebook – /originaldobo
🎧 Podcast/Live Show – /@flighttimecast
==========================================
📅 Upcoming events visit https://www.OriginaldoBo.com 📅
🔥 Like what I do? Consider buying me a coffee ☕
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/Original…
👇People keep asking, so here is the most current gear I use👇
📷 NEW CAMERA SETUP 📷
📷 Sony A7IV: https://amzn.to/3MhxPc1 (A-Cam)
📷 Sony FX3: https://amzn.to/3M0KDmU (B-Cam)
📷 Sony A7iii: https://amzn.to/35DCu5h (Real Estate Photo Camera)
🎥 Tamron 17-28: https://amzn.to/3Lemyb7
🎥 Tamron 28-75: https://amzn.to/3M8V8Vm
🎤 Mic In Studio: https://amzn.to/38fUnpW
🎤 Mic outdoors: https://amzn.to/2qu7pim
🎤 Lav Mic: https://amzn.to/3sqIBEB
“OLD CAMERAS”
📷 Panasonic S5: https://amzn.to/39F2ilA
📷 Sony A6600: https://amzn.to/2ZJ2kkF
🎥 Other Lenses: 🎥
🛒 Sony 14mm F1.8: https://amzn.to/3yoomvj
🛒 Sony 12-24 F4: https://amzn.to/395gG6s
🛒 Sony 16-35 F4: https://amzn.to/3L0pasS
🎤 Audio: 🎤
🛒 Audio-Technica AT875R Shotgun Mic: https://amzn.to/38fUnpW
🛒 Rode Wireless Go: https://amzn.to/2qu7pim
🛒 Deity VLav: https://amzn.to/2Pl92aI
🛒 Rode VideoMicro: https://amzn.to/2QuQi7z
🛒 Takstar SG598: https://amzn.to/2xY3LOl
🛒 Zoom H1: https://amzn.to/2OwH6lQ
🔭 Camera Accessories: 🔭
🛒 DJI RSC-2 Gimbal: https://drone-works.com/dji-rsc-2-3-a…
🛒 Benro Mach3 4 Series Tripod: https://amzn.to/3c0AqFP
🛒 Benro 3-Way Gear Head: https://amzn.to/3iAEpLB
🛒 FocusFoto P50 Quick Release: https://amzn.to/2RvhmWK
🛒 Godox AD200 Flash: https://amzn.to/2ZEfZJC
🛒 Godox AD-S2 Standard Reflector: https://amzn.to/3km1qTc
🛒 Godox AD400 Pro: https://amzn.to/3kY36Ve
🚁 Drones I use: 🚁
🛒 Mavic 3: https://amzn.to/3MejjRW (My Daily Flyer)
🛒 Autel Evo Lite: https://amzn.to/3FuUuPr (Backup Drone)
🛒 Autel EVO: https://amzn.to/3spNsGp
🛒 DJI FPV Drone: https://amzn.to/3N35vKb (Most Fun Drone)
** All video and audio content created by myself and or used with permission from the creator.
** Affiliate disclaimer: Some of the above links may be affiliate links, which may generate me a sales commission. For example, my YouTube Gear listed above is in association with the Amazon affiliate program and I’m an Amazon associate. **