DJI Air 3S vs DJI Mini 4 Pro: which drone to choose?

Two stars in their category go head-to-head. On one side, the DJI Mini 4 Pro, undisputed king of ultra-light drones weighing less than 250 grams. On the other, the DJI Air 3S, champion of intermediate-weight drones. If you’re one of the many enthusiasts wavering between these two models, you’ve come to the right place. In this comprehensive DJI Air 3S vs DJI Mini 4 Pro comparison, we take a point-by-point look at their features to guide you towards the choice best suited to your needs.

DJI Air 3S vs DJI Mini 4 Pro: Design

	DJI Air 3S	DJI Mini 4 Pro
Weight	724 g	< 249 g
Dimensions (folded) (L x W x H)	214.19 x 100.63 x 89.17 mm (without propellers)	148 x 94 x 64 mm (without propellers)
Dimensions (unfolded) (L x W x H)	266.11 x 325.47 x 106.00 mm (without propellers)	298 x 373 x 101 mm (with propellers)
Internal memory	42 GB	2 GB
Class (in Europe)	C1	C0

Double standards

One of the most striking features of the DJI Air 3S and DJI Mini 4 Pro is their respective size. The Air 3S measures 214.19 x 100.63 x 89.17 mm when folded and weighs 724 g, while the Mini 4 Pro is much more compact at 148 x 94 x 64 mm and weighs less than 249 g. Clearly, these two drones are in different categories.

Although DJI promotes the Air 3S as a camera designed for “travel photography”, it’s still hard for it to compete with the Mini 4 Pro in terms of practicality. With its light weight and compact size, the Mini 4 Pro will easily fit into your backpack and accompany you everywhere, effortlessly. It’s the obvious choice for those who value portability above all else.

Internal memory: a question of practicality

While the Air 3S can’t compete on the dimensions front, it can take revenge with a major asset: its 42 GB internal memory. By comparison, the Mini 4 Pro is limited to just 2 GB, which can quickly become a problem if you forget your memory card. With the Air 3S, there’s no need to panic: its 42 GB means you can capture an entire session without relying on external media.

The Air 3S is the obvious choice for those with a head for heights or who like to shoot for long periods of time. For its part, the Mini 4 Pro will be able to keep a few shots, but it won’t go the distance in this respect.

Regulations: lightness rhymes with simplicity

The weight of both drones not only affects their transportability, it also has a direct impact on regulations. Weighing less than 250g, the Mini 4 Pro belongs to the C0 class in Europe, giving it great legal flexibility. A simple registration is all it takes to start flying.

The Air 3S, on the other hand, weighs in at 724 g and falls into the C1 category. This generally implies (depending on the country) passing an online test, which is compulsory but simple and free of charge, as well as additional restrictions on flight zones. What’s more, if you like to travel, drones in the Mini 4 Pro’s category often benefit from more flexible regulations in many countries. All in all, the Mini 4 Pro is an ideal choice for globetrotters looking for simplicity.

🏆 DJI Air 3S advantage: generous 42 GB internal memory.
🏆 DJI Mini 4 Pro advantage: its ultra-portable format and lighter regulatory constraints.

DJI Air 3S vs DJI Mini 4 Pro: Transmission and radio controls

	DJI Air 3S	DJI Mini 4 Pro
Compatible radio controls	DJI RC-N2 DJI RC-N3 DJI RC 2	DJI RC-N2 DJI RC-N3 DJI RC 2
Video transmission system	DJI O4	DJI O4
Live preview quality	1080p up to 60 fps	1080p up to 60 fps
Max. transmission distance	FCC: 20 km CE: 10 km	FCC: 20 km CE: 10 km

Video transmission: identical performance

The DJI Air 3S and DJI Mini 4 Pro are based on DJI’s latest video transmission protocol, the DJI O4, offering identical performance in this respect. Whether you opt for one or the other, you’ll benefit from :

• a range of up to 10 km in CE-compliant countries, and up to 20 km in FCC-compliant countries.
• a preview video stream with 1080p resolution at up to 60 frames per second.

Radio controls: similar options

When it comes to radio controls, there’s no need to be jealous. Both models are compatible with the same devices, although the versions supplied with each drone may differ slightly:

• DJI RC-N2 and RC-N3 remote controls:
  Screenless models requiring the use of your smartphone for video feedback. The DJI Air 3S is delivered with the RC-N3 version, a slightly lighter model but offering reduced autonomy compared with the RC-N2, included with the Mini 4 Pro. However, each drone can be used with either version without problem.
• DJI RC 2 remote control:
  Featuring an integrated screen, this remote control eliminates the need to use a smartphone, offering a more comfortable experience for extended flights. Compatible with both drones, it’s a great option for those who want extra comfort.

⚖️ Tie: video transmission and radio controls go head to head.

DJI Air 3S vs DJI Mini 4 Pro: Autonomy

	DJI Air 3S	DJI Mini 4 Pro
Batteries	4276 mAh	2590 mAh
Autonomy	45 minutes	34 minutes
Recharge time	65W charger: approx. 80 minutes 100W USB-C power adapter + charging station: approx. 60 minutes	30W charger: approx. 70 minutes 30W charger + charging station: 58 minutes

DJI Air 3S takes the lead

One of the strengths of the DJI Air 3S lies in its batteries, which are considerably larger than those of the Mini 4 Pro. With a capacity of 4276 mAh versus 2590 mAh, it’s only logical that the Air 3S offers far superior autonomy. According to official DJI figures, the Air 3S can stay in the air for up to 45 minutes, compared with 34 minutes for the Mini 4 Pro.

In practice, these times are often slightly shorter, depending on flight conditions and the features activated. According to independent tests and user feedback, the typical results are as follows:

• 35 to 40 minutes of actual autonomy for Air 3S,
• 25 to 30 minutes for the Mini 4 Pro.

Even in these real-world conditions, the Air 3S maintains a comfortable lead of around 10 minutes, which can make a big difference during an extended filming or exploration session.

Solid performance for the Mini 4 Pro

That said, for a drone as compact as the Mini 4 Pro, its flight times remain impressive and more than sufficient for most uses. Whether capturing landscapes or filming dynamic scenes, it offers remarkable autonomy for its category.

On the other hand, for those who prefer the comfort of extended flight time, the Air 3S is undeniably the king of endurance.

🏆 DJI Air 3S advantage: longer autonomy.

DJI Air 3S vs DJI Mini 4 Pro: In-flight performance

	DJI Air 3S	DJI Mini 4 Pro
Maximum speed	21 m/s	16 m/s
Max. ascent speed	10 m/s	5 m/s
Max. descent speed	10 m/s	5 m/s
Max. wind resistance	12 m/s (level 6)	10.7 m/s (level 5)

A faster DJI Air 3S…

Thanks to its more powerful motors, the DJI Air 3S boasts far superior flight performance than the Mini 4 Pro. Its top speed reaches 21 m/s (approx. 76 km/h), although it is limited to 19 m/s in Europe due to regulations. By comparison, the Mini 4 Pro tops out at 16 m/s (approx. 58 km/h).

But it’s on uphill and downhill gradients that the difference really becomes noticeable. The Air 3S reaches a speed of 10 m/s (36 km/h) in both directions, double that of the Mini 4 Pro, limited to 5 m/s (18 km/h). This enables the Air 3S to cover vast areas much more quickly, an asset for users in a hurry or on shoots requiring extensive travel.

… and more wind-resistant

In addition to its raw power, the DJI Air 3S also takes advantage of its greater weight and wingspan to better withstand windy conditions. Able to withstand level 6 gusts (up to 12 m/s, approx. 43 km/h), it outperforms the Mini 4 Pro, which is limited to level 5 winds (up to 10.7 m/s, approx. 38 km/h).

This increased wind resistance gives the Air 3S greater stability in flight, which can make all the difference on windy days. If you often shoot outdoors, near the coast or in large areas where gusts are frequent, the Air 3S will clearly be your ally of choice.

🏆 DJI Air 3S advantage: faster and more robust in the face of the elements.

DJI Air 3S vs DJI Mini 4 Pro: Features

	DJI Air 3S	DJI Mini 4 Pro
Obstacle detection	Omnidirectional binocular optical system + forward-looking LiDAR + infrared sensor under the drone	Omnidirectional binocular optical system + infrared sensor under the drone

Almost identical functionality

The latest additions to their respective ranges, the DJI Air 3S and DJI Mini 4 Pro feature all the latest innovations from DJI. Key features include :

• Timelapse and Hyperlapse video modes for spectacular time-lapse sequences,
• Wide-angle shots in Panorama mode,
• Automatic videos with QuickShots and MasterShots modes,
• Route planning with the Waypoint function,
• Intelligent tracking of moving subjects.

The DJI Air 3S, being more recent, benefits from a number of exclusive enhancements. For example, its Free Panorama mode lets you manually select the area to be photographed, adding considerable flexibility for creators. It also features the QuickTransfer function with a standby mode: you can transfer your files without even turning on the drone or taking it out of your bag.

What’s more, although the subject tracking mode is similar on both models, the Air 3S’s superior speed gives it an advantage when capturing fast-moving or fast-moving subjects.

Obstacle detection: a bonus with LiDAR

Both drones feature an omnidirectional detection system, offering 360-degree protection against obstacles. This function creates a real “safety bubble” around the aircraft, reassuring beginners and experienced pilots alike.

But the DJI Air 3S goes even further with a major innovation: the integration of a LiDAR sensor, a first in DJI’s consumer range. Positioned at the front, this sensor uses laser pulses to map the environment in 3D, enabling :

• Advanced obstacle detection, even in low light or at night,
• Optimized autonomous flight modes, such as subject tracking and return-to-home (RTH), for greater precision and reliability.

Thanks to this LiDAR sensor, Air 3S offers enhanced safety and efficiency in complex or difficult environments.

🏆 The DJI Air 3S advantage: superior safety thanks to its LiDAR sensor.

DJI Air 3S vs DJI Mini 4 Pro : Image

	DJI Air 3S	DJI Mini 4 Pro
Sensors	Wide-angle camera: 1 inch CMOS 50 MP Medium-angle telecamera: 1/1.3 inch CMOS 48 MP	1/1.3-inch 48 MP CMOS
Main objective	24 mm equivalent format F/1.8 aperture FOV 84	Equivalent to 24 mm Aperture f/1.7 FOV 82.1
Secondary objective	Equivalent format 70 mm Aperture f/2.8 FOV 35° (in mm)	–
Photo resolution	Wide-angle camera: 12 and 50 MP Medium telecamera: 12 and 48 MP	12 and 48 MP
Max video resolution	4K up to 120 fps Full HD up to 240 fps 2.7K vertical shooting up to 60 fps	4K up to 100 fps FHD up to 200 fps
ISO range	100 à 12800	100 à 12800
Max bit rate	130 Mb/s	150 Mb/s
Digital Zoom	Wide-angle camera: 1 to 2.9x Medium-angle telecamera: 3 to 9x	12MP photo: 1 to 2x 4K: 1 to 3x FHD: 1 to 4x
Photo format	JPEG DNG (RAW)	JPEG DNG (RAW)
Video format	MP4 (MPEG-4 AVC/H.264, HEVC/H.265)	MP4 (MPEG-4 AVC/H.264, HEVC/H.265)
Color profile	Normal (8 and 10 bits) HLG (10 bits) D-Log M (10 bits)	Normal (8 bits) HLG (10 bits) D-log M (10 bits)

Cameras: different approaches for different needs

The image is undoubtedly the most decisive criterion when choosing between the DJI Air 3S and the DJI Mini 4 Pro. These two drones offer very different image-capture configurations, and it’s here that their uses differ most clearly.

Dual lenses for the DJI Air 3S

The DJI Air 3S stands out with a dual sensor:

• A large 1-inch, 24mm-equivalent main sensor capable of capturing more light. Ideal for low-light or high dynamic range scenes, this sensor excels in difficult conditions such as backlighting or high-contrast environments.
• A second, more conventional 1/1.3-inch sensor, with a longer focal length of 70 mm. This telephoto lens brings distant subjects “closer”, opening up new creative possibilities for composition.

Rotating camera for DJI Mini 4 Pro

The Mini 4 Pro has a single 1/1.3-inch sensor, equivalent to the second lens on the Air 3S. Despite this, it has one major advantage: its rotating gondola. This allows the camera to be tilted into vertical mode to capture true 4K portrait videos, perfect for social networking.

The Air 3S, on the other hand, can only offer a vertical cropped format in 4K, limited to a resolution of 2.7K. If you want to produce primarily content for TikTok or Instagram Stories, the Mini 4 Pro will be the obvious choice.

Resolution and color profiles

Photo

In photography, the difference is minimal.

• The DJI Air 3S can capture 12 and 50 MP shots with its main sensor, and 12 and 48 MP with its telephoto lens.
• The Mini 4 Pro, meanwhile, takes 12 and 48 MP photos, equivalent to those from the Air 3S’s second sensor.

Video

In video, both drones shoot up to 4K, but the DJI Air 3S offers slightly higher frame rates:

• In 4K, up to 120 fps for the Air 3S versus 100 fps for the Mini 4 Pro.
• In 1080p, up to 240 fps for the Air 3S versus 200 fps for the Mini 4 Pro.

These higher frequencies make the Air 3S an excellent choice for lovers of smooth, detailed slow motion. However, the Mini 4 Pro retains the advantage in portrait mode, with its rotating camera capable of filming in vertical 4K at 100 fps, compared with 2.7K at 60 fps for the Air 3S.

Color Profiles

Both drones offer Normal, HLG and 10-bit D-Log M flat profiles for advanced post-production retouching. The Normal profile of the Air 3S can be chosen in 8 or 10 bits, whereas the Mini 4 Pro is limited to 8 bits. A subtle difference, but one that may be of interest to creators looking for greater flexibility in final rendering.

Image quality

The Mini 4 Pro, with its smaller sensor, will require more light to produce good results. However, in ideal conditions, it offers excellent image quality, with a beautiful dynamic range and processing that enhances detail.

The DJI Air 3S, on the other hand, comes out on top thanks to its 1-inch main sensor. Although the difference is subtle in daylight, this sensor stands out clearly in low light, backlighting and high-contrast scenes. Its enhanced dynamic range preserves more detail in both dark and bright areas, making images richer and more balanced.

🏆 Advantage DJI Air 3S: its dual lens and better image quality in difficult conditions thanks to its 1-inch main sensor.
🏆 DJI Mini 4 Pro advantage: its rotating camera captures truevertical 4K videoand lends itself perfectly to social networking.

DJI Air 3S vs DJI Mini 4 Pro: Prices

	DJI Air 3S	DJI Mini 4 Pro
Standard pack (DJI RC-N3 or RC-N2 remote control)	1099€ See on Amazon	799€ See on Amazon
Fly More pack (DJI RC-N3 remote control for Air 3S and RC 2 for Mini 4 Pro)	1399€ See on Amazon	999€ See on Amazon
Fly More pack (DJI RC 2 remote control)	1599€ See on Amazon	1129€ See on Amazon

If your budget is a determining factor, it’s worth noting that there is a significant price difference between the DJI Mini 4 Pro and the DJI Air 3S. Although not abysmal, this difference may influence your choice.

Standard pack: Mini 4 Pro advantage

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is the most affordable, with a starting price of €799 for the standard package including RC-N2 radio control, battery, spare propellers, nacelle protection, a few cables, and a handy propeller clip to protect the blades during transport.

For its part, the DJI Air 3S starts at €1099, i.e. €300 more, with similar contents: RC-N3 radio control, battery, spare propellers, nacelle protection and necessary cables. Here, the Mini 4 Pro retains a clear advantage for budget-conscious buyers.

Fly More Packs: differences in content

Both drones are also available in Fly More packs, but the comparison is trickier because of their specific contents:

• The Fly More Combo of the Air 3S is priced at €1,399 and focuses on autonomy with 3 batteries, but retains the standard RC-N3 radio control system.
• The Mini 4 Pro’s Fly More Combo, priced at €999, includes the DJI RC 2 remote control with its integrated screen, but only offersa single battery.

These choices reflect different priorities: enhanced autonomy for the Air 3S, versus a better user experience thanks to the integrated screen for the Mini 4 Pro.

Top-of-the-range Fly More packages: the gap is widening

The real comparison is with the most complete Fly More packages, which in both cases include :

• The drone,
• DJI RC 2 remote control with display,
• 3 batteries,
• A charging station,
• A carry bag.

On these high-end versions, the price gap becomes significant: €1,129 for the Mini 4 Pro versus €1,599 for the Air 3S. If you’re looking to maximize your options while limiting expenses, the Mini 4 Pro is clearly more attractive.

🏆 DJI Mini 4 Pro advantage: a more affordable price.

Conclusion DJI Air 3S vs DJI Mini 4 Pro: which one to choose?

The DJI Air 3S and DJI Mini 4 Pro are two exceptional drones, representing the very best of DJI know-how. Although the Air 3S, positioned in a higher range, logically surpasses the Mini 4 Pro in several areas, each model possesses assets that will appeal to different user profiles.

👍🏻 DJI Air 3S highlights :

• Superior flight behaviour: faster and more wind-resistant, ideal for demanding conditions.
• Increased autonomy, offering up to 10 minutes extra flight time in real-life conditions.
• Advanced obstacle detection, with LiDAR sensor for enhanced safety.
• 42 GB internal memory, ideal for shooting without a memory card.
• Dual camera, with a large 1-inch sensor and telephoto focal length, offering outstanding image quality and creative flexibility.

👍🏻 DJI Mini 4 Pro highlights :

• More affordable price, perfect for those looking for excellent value for money.
• Ultra-portable, easy to carry and suitable for frequent travelers.
• Rotating camera, enabling true 4K vertical format, ideal for content creators on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube Shorts.

Choose the DJI Air 3S if…

• You’re demanding when it comes to image. If image quality is a priority for you, the Air 3S’s large 1-inch sensor and telephoto lens will give you professional results, especially in low light or for creative shots.
• You fly in demanding conditions. Thanks to its power and greater wind resistance, the Air 3S is the ideal choice for areas where weather conditions could put a lightweight drone to the test.

Choose the DJI Mini 4 Pro if…

• You travel a lot. Compact and lightweight, the Mini 4 Pro slips easily into your luggage, perfect for capturing your adventures without bulk.
• You create content for social networks. With its rotating camera and true 4K vertical format, the Mini 4 Pro is the dream tool for creators active on platforms like TikTok or Instagram.

FAQ – DJI Air 3S versus DJI Mini 4 Pro

Which drone is more portable: the DJI Air 3S or the DJI Mini 4 Pro?

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is significantly more portable. With its ultra-light weight of under 249 g and compact dimensions, it easily fits into a backpack, making it perfect for travel and frequent outings.

What is the internal storage of the DJI Air 3S and the DJI Mini 4 Pro?

The DJI Air 3S offers 42 GB of internal storage, while the DJI Mini 4 Pro only has 2 GB. This could be a crucial factor if you often forget to bring an SD card.

What are the regulatory differences between the DJI Air 3S and the DJI Mini 4 Pro in Europe?

The DJI Mini 4 Pro, weighing less than 250 g, is classified as C0 in Europe, which greatly simplifies its use, requiring only a simple registration. The DJI Air 3S, at 724 g, falls into the C1 category, requiring an online exam and stricter flight restrictions.

Can I use the Mini 4 Pro without taking an exam or training?

The Mini 4 Pro belongs to class C0 in Europe (under 250 g) and only requires a simple registration in most situations. This means fewer procedures compared to the Air 3S, which often requires additional certification.

Can the same remote controls be used for both models?

Both drones are compatible with the same DJI remote controls (RC‑N2 / RC‑N3 / RC 2), allowing you to share accessories. The experience varies depending on which controller is included in the standard or Fly More package.

Which has better battery life: the DJI Air 3S or the Mini 4 Pro?

The DJI Air 3S offers about 45 minutes of flight time (35–40 minutes in real‑world conditions), compared to 34 minutes (25–30 minutes in real‑world use) for the Mini 4 Pro.

How do the flight performances compare between the DJI Air 3S and the DJI Mini 4 Pro?

The DJI Air 3S is faster, with a maximum speed of 21 m/s compared to 16 m/s for the Mini 4 Pro. It’s also more wind‑resistant, handling gusts up to 12 m/s versus 10.7 m/s for the Mini 4 Pro.

Which drone is more resistant to wind: the DJI Air 3S or the DJI Mini 4 Pro?

The DJI Air 3S can handle wind speeds up to 12 m/s (level 6), making it more resistant than the Mini 4 Pro, which is rated for 10.7 m/s (level 5).

Which drone is better for demanding flight conditions?

The DJI Air 3S is better suited for demanding conditions due to its higher speed, greater wind resistance, and dual cameras offering superior image quality.

What are the differences in obstacle detection between the DJI Air 3S and the DJI Mini 4 Pro?

Both drones feature omnidirectional obstacle detection, but the DJI Air 3S also includes a LiDAR sensor for advanced detection, even in low‑light environments.

What practical advantages does LiDAR provide on the Air 3S?

The LiDAR sensor significantly enhances obstacle detection, especially in low‑visibility or nighttime conditions. It improves safety and reliability during automated flight modes.

What are the camera differences between the DJI Air 3S and the DJI Mini 4 Pro?

The DJI Air 3S includes dual cameras, one of which is a large 1‑inch sensor, whereas the DJI Mini 4 Pro has a single 1/1.3‑inch sensor. However, the Mini 4 Pro offers a rotating gimbal that enables true vertical 4K recording—ideal for social media.

Is the DJI Air 3S better than the Mini 4 Pro for video?

Yes—the DJI Air 3S stands out with its 1‑inch primary sensor and dual‑camera setup, delivering better dynamic range and low‑light performance. This allows for more professional and creative videos, especially in challenging conditions.

Which drone supports vertical 4K video?

The Mini 4 Pro offers a rotating gimbal that records true vertical 4K at 100 fps. The Air 3S is limited to 2.7K recropped vertical video.

Which is better for social media content creation: the DJI Air 3S or the DJI Mini 4 Pro?

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is more suitable for social media creators. Its rotating gimbal enables true vertical 4K video, perfectly formatted for platforms like TikTok or Instagram Stories.

Read the full tests of the two drones in this DJI Air 3S vs DJI Mini 4 Pro comparison :
➡️ DJI Air 3S, full review: 1-inch sensor and LiDAR technology!
➡️ DJI Mini 4 Pro, the perfect mini drone? Full test.