DJI Unveils the Ultralight Mini SE Drone in the US
DJI has brought the Mini SE to the United States after a gradual launch across international markets. The DJI Mini SE originally launched in China, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Brazil, Singapore, and a few other nations last week, but not in the United States or Europe.
This brand-new, ultra-compact flyer weighs about as much as the average smartphone, yet includes several features that far exceed its diminutive frame, including a 1/2.3″ CMOS camera capable of shooting 2.7K video and 12MP stills, 30 minutes of flight time, and the ability to transmit HD video from up to 2.5 miles (4km) away.
The Mini SE is more a spiritual successor to the original DJI Mini than a replacement for the Mini 2. While the Mini 2 records a 4K video, the Mini SE offers the same 2.7K video resolution as the original Mini. That said, the Mini SE uses the same slightly redesigned body as the Mini 2. DJI touts the Mini SE as “almost as light as a smartphone” as it weighs in at under 249 grams. The lightweight makes it extremely portable and allows it to fly in the lowest weight class of drone which can except it from certain regulations in many countries.
When folded, the drone’s dimensions (L x W x H) are 131 x 81 x 58mm. Unfolded with propellers, the drone is 245 x 289 x 56mm. In terms of additional specs, the drone has a maximum ascent speed of 4 meters per second and a max speed (with no wind) of 13 m/s. The Mini SE has a maximum tilt angle of 30° and a maximum angular velocity of 150°/s.
The Mini SE drone records 12MP aerial photos and up to 2.7K Quad HD videos using its 1/2.3″ CMOS image sensor. The built-in lens has a 35mm-equivalent focal length of 24mm and an F2.8 aperture. The drone’s ISO range for photo and video is 100-3200. The drone includes a 3-axis motorized gimbal. When flying, the remote maintains an HD video feed at up to 4km (2.5mi). The drone is rated for up to 30 minutes of flying with a fully charged battery. The drone ships with propeller guards that make it safer to fly indoors or around other people and it is also equipped with DJI’s sensors so that it can hover in place precisely.
As is the case with just about every drone DJI launches, the Mini SE comes with multiple QuickShots functions that allow for complex video moves easily. The Mini SE can perform a drone selfie called a “dronie,” the “rocket” feature which moves the drone straight up while the camera stays tilted down towards the subject, can fly in a circle, and can perform what DJI calls “helix.”
The drone also includes a CineSmooth mode. This slows down the Mini SE’s flight speed and movements for additional precision and stability. It’s a useful mode when flying in tight spaces, too. It also has advanced sensors to hover precisely. The accompanying DJI Fly app helps users find scenic locations near them. The integrated SkyPixel social media platform lets users share aerial photos and videos with other users.
The 249-gram DJI Mini SE drone is available now through DJI and authorized retailers at $300.
More info on DJI’s website.
