Unlock the Secrets of Camera Drone Perfection with DJI Air 3S Review
DJI Air 3S: One-Minute Review
The DJI Air 3S is the latest flagship model in DJI’s mid-range Air series of consumer camera drones. With its two-camera setup, consisting of a wide-angle and medium-telephoto camera, mounted on a three-axis gimbal on the drone’s nose, the Air 3S is designed for aerial photography and videography.
An upgrade over the Air 3
The Air 3S offers a few notable improvements over its predecessor, the DJI Air 3. The new model features a larger image sensor on one of its cameras, as well as a more effective omnidirectional object-sensing system to help avoid mid-air collisions with obstacles. The front-facing sensors are now powered by LiDAR technology, making the Air 3S better at navigating tricky terrain at night.
What are the cameras like?
The cameras on the Air 3S are truly excellent, capable of capturing raw photos and 10-bit 4K video at 60fps with HLG or D-Log M color profiles, allowing for more flexibility in post-production. They can record up to 14 stops of dynamic range, with superb stability in footage thanks to the three-axis gimbal. The new larger sensor on the wide-angle camera gives the Air 3S an advantage when shooting in low-light conditions.
How easy is it to fly?
The Air 3S has a range of features that make it easy to fly, including automatic takeoff and landing, advanced return-to-home flight, and stabilization via DJI’s O4 system. The battery life is impressive, with a full charge providing up to 45 minutes of flight time.
Should you buy the DJI Air 3S?
If you’re looking for a mid-range camera drone with excellent image quality and ease of use, the DJI Air 3S is a great option. While it’s not a significant departure from the Air 3, the improvements make it a solid upgrade. If you’re upgrading from an entry-level drone, the Air 3S is a logical progression.
Release Date and Price
The DJI Air 3S is available to buy from October 15, 2024, at a base price of $1,099 / £959 / AU$1,699. There are also two Fly More Combo bundles available, starting at $1,399 / £1,239 / AU$2,129.
Performance
- Excellent battery life
- Omnidirectional obstacle avoidance and simple flight controls
- 4.5/5
Image and Video Quality
- Strong video and photo performance, with improved low-light quality
- 4.5/5
Should You Buy the DJI Air 3S?
- If you want a mid-range camera drone with excellent image quality and ease of use
- If you’re ready to upgrade from an entry-level drone
- If you’re looking for a reliable and feature-packed camera drone
DJI Air 3S: Also Consider
- DJI Mini 4 Pro: An ultra-lightweight folding drone with great image quality and a more affordable price tag
- DJI Mavic 3 Pro: A high-end, triple-camera drone with excellent image quality, but at a higher price point
How I Tested the DJI Air 3S
- One week of use
- Flown with the DJI RC 2 Controller
- Camera tested in sunny, cloudy, windy, and low-light conditions
I’ve been testing the DJI Air 3S for a week, using the pre-launch firmware and the Fly More Combo, which included the RC 2 controller, extra batteries, and a filter set. I’ve flown the drone in various locations, capturing photos and videos in different formats, and editing and adjusting my images using Adobe Lightroom and DaVinci Resolve 19.
