DJI Avata 2 vs Avata: which drone to choose?

The DJI Avata 2 replaces the Avata, the Chinese manufacturer’s first CineWhoop FPV drone. Design, helmet, radio controls, camera, flight performance… what are the differences between the two drones? Which should you choose? If you already own the Avata, should you replace it? All the answers in our comprehensive DJI Avata 2 vs Avata comparison!

DJI Avata 2 vs Avata: design

	DJI Avata	DJI Avata 2
Weight	410g	377g
Dimensions (L x W x H)	180 x 180 x 80 mm	185 x 212 x 64 mm
Internal storage	20 GB	46 Go

At first glance, it’s clear that the DJI Avata 2 is not a simple update of its predecessor. DJI has completely redesigned its Cinewhoop drone: slimmer, the Avata 2 is wider (212 mm vs. 180 mm), less tall (64 mm vs. 80 mm) and also slightly lighter (377 g vs. 410 g).

The Avata 2 is equipped with new three-blade inclined propellers, unlike the Avata 1, which has five flat-blade propellers. We can also see that the propellers are further apart than on the previous model. These new propellers have the advantage of making the drone quieter, which is appreciable given that the first version was particularly noisy.

The other major change concerns the battery. Whereas it was completely visible and exposed on the Avata 1, it is now integrated inside the Avata 2, held firmly in place by two clips on either side. This new configuration offers greater protection, makes it easier to install and remove the battery, and reduces the risk of ejection in the event of a fall, a frequent problem with the previous model.

Other physical differences include :

• New fisheye sensors at the rear for more efficient positioning.
• A new engine block under the drone, which protects the propellers during landing and allows take-off from the hand if desired (unlike the Avata 1, where the propellers are directly accessible without protection).
• The hatch that conceals the USB-C port and memory card slot has been moved to the side of the drone, making them much more accessible than on the first version, where they were located inside the motors.

Finally, it doesn’t directly concern the design of the device, but it’s important to note that the new version of the Avata is equipped with 46 GB of internal storage, more than double the 20 GB of the previous model. This increase in capacity should offer greater comfort of use, enabling recording of up to 90 minutes of 1080p video at 60 frames per second.

🚨 Regulatory note
Regulations are less restrictive with the new model: the DJI Avata 2 is classified in category C1, as indicated by the small sticker on the side of its fuselage. This classification allows us to overfly residential, commercial, industrial and recreational areas, as well as to pass briefly and involuntarily over isolated individuals.
For its part, the DJI Avata 1 is not classified at the time of writing. As a result, its use is restricted to open category A3, requiring it to fly at least 150 meters away from residential, commercial and industrial areas, and away from people.

DJI Avata 2 vs Avata: goggles and radio controls

Video transmission

Since the launch of the DJI Air 3 in summer 2023, DJI drones have been equipped with the manufacturer’s DJI O4 video transmission system. The DJI O4 offers a more stable connection, extended range and an additional frequency band in Europe, namely 5.1 GHz. While the Avata 1 uses the DJI O3+ and offers a range of 2 km in Europe, the Avata 2, equipped with the DJI O4 system, can achieve a range of up to 10 km.

To benefit from this enhanced transmission, the drone must be used with a helmet or radio controls compatible with the DJI O4 system. This is why the DJI Avata 2 is being launched simultaneously with new equipment: the DJI Goggles 3, as well as two new radio controls, the DJI RC Motion 3 gyroscopic joystick, successor to the RC Motion 2, and the DJI FPV Radio Control 3, with its video game controller design, which is an update of the DJI FPV Radio Control 2.

Until a potential update, the Avata 2 is only compatible with the new Goggles 3 and the RC Motion 3 and Radiocommande 3 DJI FPV remote controls. As for the Avata 1, it remains compatible with previous models of equipment, namely DJI Goggles 2 and Goggles Integra, as well as DJI Motion Controller, RC Motion 2 and DJI FPV Radio Control 2.

FPV headsets

	DJI Goggles 2	DJI Goggles Integra	DJI Goggles 3
Weight	290g	410g	470g
Dimensions (L x W x H)	167.40 x 103.90 x 81.31 mm (folded antennas) 196.69 x 103.90 x 104.61 mm (antennas unfolded)	170 x 104 x 75 mm (antennas folded) 205 x 104 x 104 mm (unfolded antennas)	170 x 109 x 112 mm (folded antennas) 205 x 109 x 112 mm (antennas unfolded)
Screen size	0.49 inch	0.49 inch	0.49 inch
Screen resolution	1080p	1080p	1080p
Refresh rate	Up to 100 Hz	Up to 100 Hz	Up to 100 Hz
Latency (with DJI Avata 2)	1080p/100 fps: 30 ms 1080p/60 fps: 40 ms	1080p/100 fps: 30 ms 1080p/60 fps: 40 ms	1080p/100 fps: 24 ms 1080p/60 fps: 40 ms
Max. bit rate	50 Mb/s	50 Mb/s	60 Mb/s
Video transmission	DJI O3+	DJI O3+	DJI O4 (with DJI Avata 2)
Operating frequency	2.4 GHz 5.8 GHz	2.4 GHz 5.8 GHz	2.4 GHz 5.1 GHz (in Europe) 5.8 GHz
Max. transmission distance	10 km (FCC) 2 km (CE)	10 km (FCC) 2 km (CE)	13 km (FCC) 10 km (CE)
Autonomy	About 2 hours	About 2 hours	About 3 hours

The table above illustrates the differences between the Avata 1-compatible DJI Goggles 2 and DJI Goggles Integra, and the new Avata 2-compatible DJI Goggles 3.

Note that the Goggles Integra and Goggles 3 are heavier than the Goggles 2, which is explained by their battery-integrated headband. The Goggles 3, very similar in appearance to the Integra, are even slightly heavier than the latter, thanks to an articulated part that has been added to the forehead to improve comfort.

On paper, the three models share many similarities. The main difference lies in the Goggles 3’s compatibility with the DJI O4 system, giving it extended range and superior video feedback, with greater dynamics and detail, and no perceptible latency.

The other big difference, which doesn’t appear in the technical specifications, is a new feature specific to Goggles 3: the latter feature two front-facing mini-cameras, which allow you to switch from the drone’s view to the one in front of you with a simple double-tap. Although this function is designed to allow you to see everything without removing your glasses, it is unfortunately impractical due to its restricted field of vision and poor image quality.

Radio controls

	DJI Avata	DJI Avata 2
Compatible radio controls	DJI Motion Controller DJI RC Motion 2 Radio Remote Control 2 DJI FV	DJI RC Motion 3 Radio Remote Control 3 DJI FPV
Video transmission system	DJI O3+	O4
Max. flight distance	10 km (FCC) 2 km (CE)	13 km(FCC) 10 km (CE)

The DJI FPV Radio Remote 3, with its video-game controller design, represents a simple update of the previous model. Physically identical with the exception of the folding antenna, which has been removed in version 3, the only notable difference lies inside: the integration of the DJI O4 system, once again.

The DJI RC Motion 3, with its airplane stick design, presents more significant changes, marked by a completely renewed design. This new version of the remote control, which lets you control the drone by hand movements, is more compact, lighter and offers a better grip than its predecessors, the Motion Controller and RC Motion 2.

In addition to its new look and compatibility with the DJI O4, the RC Motion 3 incorporates a new function reserved for the Avata 2 that may be of interest to budding hunting pilots: simplified Acro mode. With a simple flick of the 5D button, you can perform aerial maneuvers such as flips, barrels and 180° drifts.

DJI Avata 2 vs Avata: in flight

	DJI Avata	DJI Avata 2
Max. ascent speed	6 m/s (Normal mode) 6 m/s (Sport mode)	6 m/s (Normal mode) 9 m/s (Sport mode)
Max. descent speed	6 m/s (Normal mode) 6 m/s (Sport mode)	6 m/s (Normal mode) 9 m/s (Sport mode)
Max. horizontal speed	8 m/s (Normal mode) 14 m/s (Sport mode) 27 m/s (Manual mode)	8 m/s (Normal mode) 16 m/s (Sport mode) 27 m/s (Manual mode)
Max. wind resistance speed	10.7 m/s (Level 5)	10.7 m/s (Level 5)
Batteries	2420 mAh	2150 mAh
Max. flight time	Approx. 18 minutes	Approx. 23 minutes

Flight performance

Both drones offer Normal, Sport and Manual flight modes, enabling you to enjoy the joys of immersive FPV flight at increasing levels of difficulty and ever higher speeds. Normal mode offers maximum assistance, increased safety and reduced speed. Conversely, Manual mode removes all flight assistance and stabilization, offering total control at maximum speed.

In Manual mode, although the Avata 2 is faster in climb and descent (9 m/s vs. 6 m/s), its maximum speed is identical on both drones. However, this is true only in theory: as the Avata 2 is class C1, it is limited to 19 m/s (68.4 km/h) in Europe, whereas the first Avata, without class, will be able to fly at its maximum speed of 27 m/s (97.2 km/h). That’s a difference of almost 30 km/h!

When it comes to pure flight behaviour, the difference is not so obvious. But the new Avata 2, perhaps due to its revised design, boasts greater stability and overall ease of flight. This improvement is particularly noticeable compared to a flaw of the Avata 1, which tends to stall in very tight turns — a behavior that no longer seems to be present on the Avata 2 according to available feedback and analyses. But once again, the difference is not colossal, and the Avata 1 remains a drone of remarkable performance, and very pleasant to fly.

Security

Both models have the same features designed to ensure safety in flight:

• the RTH function, or automatic return to the point of departure, which can be activated manually or automatically, depending on the circumstances, and enables the drone to be returned safely.
• the Pause button (or simply releasing the throttle), which automatically hovers the drone in case of emergency. Very handy if you lose your footing in the heat of the action.
• Turtle mode, which returns the drone to the right position and orientation after a fall onto its back.

The Avata 2 is also equipped with two new binocular fisheye sensors pointing downwards and to the rear. It is important to note, however, that they are not used for obstacle detection per se, but rather to improve the drone’s stability and positioning in flight, particularly indoors and at low altitude.

Autonomy

According to the manufacturer’s data, despite a lower battery capacity (2150 mAh versus 2420), the DJI Avata 2 offers longer flight times: 5 minutes more flight time, or 23 minutes versus 18.

This figure should be taken with a grain of salt, however, as it depends on how you fly. If your flying style is more dynamic, your flight time will inevitably be reduced. Overall, available feedback and tests indicate little noticeable difference between the two models, with real-world flight time generally ranging between 15 and 20 minutes before returning to the takeoff point.

DJI Avata 2 vs Avata: photos and video

	DJI Avata	DJI Avata 2
Sensor	1/1.7 inch 12 MP	1/1.3 inch 12 MP
Lens	12 mm equivalent Field of view 155° Aperture f/2.8	12 mm equivalent Field of view 155° Aperture f/2.8
Max. image size	4000 x 3000	4000 x 2256 (16:9) 4000 x 3000 (4:3)
Video resolution	4K up to 60 fps 2.7K up to 120 fps Full HD up to 120 fps	4K up to 100 fps 2.7K up to 120 fps Full HD up to 120 fps
ISO range	100 à 25600	100 à 25600
Photo format	JPEG	JPEG
Video format	MP4	MP4 (H.264/H.265)
Max. bit rate	150 Mb/s	130 Mb/s
Color profiles	Standard D-Cinelike	Standard D-Log M

Sensor, resolution and image quality

This is certainly the most notable improvement brought by the DJI Avata 2. Featuring a larger 1/1.3-inch sensor, compared with 1/1.7-inch for the previous model, the Avata 2’s camera offers greater sensitivity to light, which translates into a clear improvement in image quality: images are more dynamic, sharper and offer more detail, particularly in dark and very bright areas.

Another advantage for the Avata 2 in terms of resolutions and frame rates: it will be able to film in 4K at up to 100 frames per second (compared with 60 fps for the Avata), to the delight of slow-motion fans. On the other hand, the two models are on a par when it comes to other resolutions, both being capable of recording at up to 120 fps in 2.7K and Full HD.

Photo/video features

While the Avata 1 curiously benefits from a slightly higher maximum bit rate than the Avata 2 (150 Mb/s vs. 130 Mb/s), the new version of the Avata has the advantage of a few more photo and video features than its predecessor.

First of all, the Avata 2 can film in 4K in 16:9 format, but also in 4:3 format. The advantage of the 4:3 format is that it captures more content vertically, offering the possibility of framing the image as required when editing, whether in horizontal or vertical format. An advantage for those who create content in both portrait and landscape formats, such as TikTok users.

Secondly, while the first Avata offers only the D-Cinelike flat color profile, the Avata 2 features the 10-bit D-Log M profile. It offers far greater flexibility for post-production color correction. Once again, this is a major advantage for content creators wishing to have precise control over the final rendering of their footage.

Last but not least, the Avata 2 features QuickTransfer to quickly transfer all captured images to a smartphone, as well as Live Video Streaming to share the image captured by the drone to a smartphone.

DJI Avata 2 vs Avata: price

	DJI Avata	DJI Avata 2
Drone alone	579€ See on Amazon	489€ See on Amazon
Standard package	829 (Explorer Bundle) See on Amazon	999 (Bundle Fly More 1 battery) See on Amazon
Enhanced pack	1019€ (Bundle Pro-View) See on Amazon	1199€ (Bundle Fly More 3 batteries) See on Amazon
Fly More Kit	249€	–

Comparing the prices of the Avata and Avata 2 is no easy task, since the packages on offer have not been designed in the same way. We’ll try to sum it all up as best we can.

The standard or first-price package for the DJI Avata 2 is the Fly More Bundle with 1 battery (999€), including the drone with Goggles 3 headset, DJI RC Motion 3 remote control and battery. The two Avata 1 packs are comparable, as they also include a single battery, the DJI RC Motion 2 remote control, and either the Goggles Integra headset (in the Explorer Bundle, priced at €829) or the Goggles 2 headset (in the Pro-View Bundle, priced at €1019).

With an equivalent standard package, the Avata 2 is therefore €170 more expensive (if compared with the Avata 1 + Goggles Integra package) or, on the contrary, €20 cheaper (if compared with the Avata 1 + Goggles 2 package).

Next, the Avata 2 is offered in an upgraded Fly More 3-battery Bundle pack (€1199) which is a “real” Fly More pack, in the sense that the drone is supplied with the elements of the standard pack + 2 additional batteries, a recharging station and a carry bag. The equivalent on the Avata 1 side would be one of the Explorer or Pro-View packs, to which we would add the Fly More Kit sold separately (€249) which includes 2 batteries and a charging station. The total cost would be €1078 and €1268 respectively.

So, for an equivalent upgraded package, the Avata 2 is 121€ more expensive (if you compare it with the Avata 1 + Goggles Integra package) or, on the contrary, 70€ cheaper (if you compare it with the Avata 1 + Goggles 2 package).

Finally, note that the two drones are also available on their own (which makes it easier to compare their prices 😅). And surprise, the Avata 2 alone (€489) is less expensive than the first Avata (€579), a difference of precisely €90.

So it all depends on what you want to buy in the way of accessories, but to sum up: the cheapest Avata 2 ready-to-fly pack is €170 more expensive than the Avata 1, and the Avata 2 is cheaper than the Avata 1 combined with the Goggles 2 or on its own.

Conclusion DJI Avata 2 vs Avata: which to choose?

Since the DJI Avata 2 is the latest model, it is naturally better equipped than the first Avata. Its main advantages: the DJI O4 video transmission, which gives it a longer, higher-quality range; the latest DJI headset and gyro controller for ultra-easy aerial maneuvers; and, above all, its new 1/1.3-inch sensor, which gives it a much better image quality.

But the Avata 1 does have one advantage: it’s classless in the eyes of the law. Although the regulations are more restrictive, it will be able to fly at its maximum speed, unlike the Avata 2, and therefore around 30 km/h faster than its little brother.

Choose the DJI Avata 2 if…

… this is your first FPV drone. Given the small price difference between the two models, you might as well opt for the latest model, which incorporates all the latest features.

Choose the DJI Avata if…

… you just want to fly FPV at the best price , and image quality isn’t your priority. If you’re not planning to shoot high-quality videos, the Avata 1 is more than up to the task of making you feel like a bird: the feel between the two models is similar, and the first Avata even has the advantage of being able to fly at maximum speed.

I already have the DJI Avata, should I buy the DJI Avata 2?

If you already have the first Avata, especially with a DJI RC Motion 2 remote control, considering upgrading to a new drone model for a different flying sensation might not be very necessary, as the differences between the two models are minimal. However, a valid reason to upgrade your drone would be toget better image quality when shooting and/or improved video feedback in your goggles. With the Avata 2’s new sensor and O4 transmission, it makes a real leap forward on both counts.

Discover our complete individual tests of the drones in this DJI Avata 2 vs Avata comparison :
➡️ DJI Avata: our full review
➡️ DJI Avata 2, full review: FPV for everyone!

🛠️ For maintenance and repairs, you can find all compatible parts here:
DJI Avata 2 Parts
DJI Avata Parts