DJI Mini 4K vs Mini 2 SE: which drone to choose?

With the launch of the DJI Mini 4K, DJI adds a new affordable drone to its successful Mini series, alongside the Mini 2 SE. This article compares these two entry-level drones: what are the differences between the two models? Which one to choose? Design, camera, features, battery life… All the answers in our comprehensive DJI Mini 4K vs Mini 2 SE comparison!

DJI Mini 4K vs Mini 2 SE: design and remote control

Design

	DJI Mini 4K	DJI Mini 2 SE
Weight	< 249g	246g
Dimensions (folded, without propellers) (L x W x H)	138 x 81 x 58 mm	138 x 81 x 58 mm
Dimensions (unfolded, with propellers) (L x W x H)	245 x 289 x 56 mm	245 x 289 x 56 mm

The DJI Mini 4K and DJI Mini 2 SE share the same dimensions and weigh less than 249 grams. Placed side by side and examined from every angle, it’s hard to discern the slightest difference between the two models, which are as similar as two drops of water.

Everything is in exactly the same place: the 1/2.3-inch camera on the front, the propellers adorned with a small orange border, the battery that sits on the back, surmounting the USB-C port used for charging and data transfer as well as the slot for the microSD memory card, the on/off button and the positioning sensors located under the structure. The only distinction is the model name, inscribed on the front left arm of each drone.

🚨 Note on regulations
Like previous models in the DJI Mini series, the Mini 4K and Mini 2 SE belong to the category of lightweight drones weighing less than 250 grams. This weight gives them the advantage of less stringent regulations in most countries. Both models are authorized to fly over residential, commercial, industrial and leisure areas. They can also pass over people, provided this is accidental and brief.

Remote control

	DJI Mini 4K	DJI Mini 2 SE
Compatible radio controls	DJI RC-N1C	DJI RC-N1
Video transmission system	DJI O2	DJI O2
Max. transmission distance	FCC: 10 km CE: 6 km	FCC: 10 km CE: 6 km

The Mini 4K and Mini 2 SE are compatible with a single remote control, with which they are both sold. This is the DJI RC-N1, which was originally launched with the DJI Mini 2 in 2020. Since then, it has become the manufacturer’s standard screenless remote control, included in the standard packages of many of its drone models.

The remote control supplied with the Mini 4K bears a slight change in name, being designated RC-N1C instead of RC-N1. There is no physical difference between the RC-N1 used with the Mini 2 SE and the RC-N1C of the Mini 4K; both remotes use the same DJI O2 transmission system and offer an identical range of 10 km under FCC standards and 6 km under CE standards. The reason for the addition of this letter “C” remains to be clarified.

DJI Mini 4K vs Mini 2 SE: photos and video

	DJI Mini 4K	DJI Mini 2 SE
Sensor	1/2.3-inch 12 MP CMOS	1/2.3-inch 12 MP CMOS
Lens	24mm equivalent format F/2.8 aperture FOV 83°.	24mm equivalent format F/2.8 aperture FOV 83°.
Max photo resolution	12 MP	12 MP
Max video resolution	4K up to 30 fps 2.7K up to 60 fps 1080p up to 60 fps	2.7K up to 30 fps 1080p up to 60 fps
ISO range	100 à 3200	100 à 3200
Max bit rate	100 Mb/s	40 Mb/s
Digital Zoom	4K: 2x 2.7K: 3x FHD: 4x	2.7K: 3x FHD: 4x
Photo format	JPEG DNG (RAW)	JPEG DNG (RAW)
Video format	MP4 (MPEG-4 AVC/H.264)	MP4 (MPEG-4 AVC/H.264)
Color profile	Normal	Normal

Sensor and resolution

Both the DJI Mini 4K and DJI Mini 2 SE feature a camera with a 1/2.3-inch 12 MP CMOS sensor , 24 mm equivalent lens, f/2.8 aperture and 83° field of view.

However, the main difference between the two models lies in their video capabilities: the Mini 4K is capable of filming in 4K at up to 30 frames per second, while the Mini 2 SE is limited to 2.7K resolution at 30 fps. It’s also worth noting that the Mini 4K can achieve a higher frame rate in 2.7K, at 60 fps compared with 30 fps for the Mini 2 SE.

While the Mini 2 SE was designed to offer a cost-effective alternative to the Mini 2 by eliminating the 4K function, DJI reintroduces this feature in the new Mini 4K, which ultimately comes closer to the Mini 2 than the Mini 2 SE in terms of specifications. And as with the Mini 2, to keep pace with this higher resolution, the Mini 4K benefits from a higher video bit rate of 100 Mb/s, compared with the 40 Mb/s of the Mini 2 SE.

Finally, the last difference between the two drones in terms of imaging features: the Mini 4K will be able to zoom up to 2x in this 4K resolution, which it has more than its predecessor.

Photo and video features

As far as photo and video functions are concerned, the modes, formats and color profiles are exactly the same on the Mini 4K and Mini 2 SE.

For photos, the Mini 4K offers several options: Single Photo mode, AEB, which captures three images at different exposures, and Interval mode. Users can choose between JPG or DNG formats (raw format ideal for those who prefer to retouch colors in post-production).

For video, DJI Minis include QuickShots, automated modes such as Dronie, Spiral, Rocket, Circle and Boomerang, which allow the drone to fly a predefined course while recording video. Panoramas can also be created in 180°, Sphere (360°) and Wide-Angle modes.

As far as color profiles are concerned, only the Normal profile is available on both models. No flat profile such as D-Cinelike, which would allow more precise adjustment of color calibration during editing.

Last but not least, the QuickTransfer feature for quickly transferring photo and video files to a smartphone, present on the Mini 2 but removed from the Mini 2 SE, is also not available on the Mini 4K.

DJI Mini 4K vs Mini 2 SE: in flight

	DJI Mini 4K	DJI Mini 2 SE
Maximum speed	16 m/s	16 m/s
Max. ascent speed	5 m/s	5 m/s
Max. descent speed	3.5 m/s	3.5 m/s
Max. wind resistance	10.7 m/s (level 5)	10.7 m/s (level 5)

Flight performance

In-flight performance is strictly identical between the two models. With the same fuselage and engines, it’s logical to find the same maximum speeds in Sport mode: 16 m/s (57.6 km/h) in horizontal travel, 5 m/s (18 km/h) in ascent and 3.5 m/s (12.6 km/h) in descent.

There’s no difference either in terms of flight behaviour, with the same DJI secret of stability on both drones, and identical wind resistance up to 10.7 m/s, corresponding to level 5 winds.

And for those wondering, neither model features obstacle detection. On the Mini range, this safety function is available from the Mini 3 Pro upwards.

Autonomy

	DJI Mini 4K	DJI Mini 2 SE
Batteries	2250 mAh Li-ion	2250 mAh Li-ion
Autonomy	31 minutes	31 minutes

Finally, autonomy. The DJI Mini 4K and Mini 2 SE use the same 2250 mAh battery, which, according to the manufacturer’s specifications, offers identical theoretical autonomy of 31 minutes.

It is important to note that this time is estimated under optimal flight conditions. Actual variations in autonomy can be influenced by weather conditions, piloting techniques and intensive use of the camera during flight, with effective autonomy varying between 20 and 25 minutes.

DJI Mini 4K vs Mini 2 SE: price

	DJI Mini 4K	DJI Mini 2 SE
Standard package	299€ See on Amazon	279€
Fly More Pack	439€ See on Amazon	419€

Both models are available in a standard package that includes the drone, remote control, battery, pod protection, spare propellers and various cables. This package is priced at €299 for the DJI Mini 4K, compared with €279 for the DJI Mini 2 SE, a difference of €20.

Both drones are also available in a Fly More pack, which contains two additional batteries, a charging station, a shoulder bag for storage and transport, and a propeller attachment. There’s the same price difference for this complete package: €439 for the Mini 4, versus €419 for the Mini 2 SE.

Conclusion DJI Mini 4K vs Mini 2 SE: which one to choose?

In short, the DJI Mini 4K and Mini 2 SE are identical in every respect, except for the camera. Both models offer equivalent performance and autonomy, and come with the same remote control and accessories. However, as its name suggests, the Mini 4K can shoot up to 4K, while the Mini 2 SE is limited to 2.7K.

Which drone to choose? Given the small price difference between the two (just 20 euros), the choice is clear to us: opt for the Mini 4K and enjoy better image quality!

Discover our complete individual tests of the drones in this DJI Mini 4K vs Mini 2 SE comparison:
➡️ DJI Mini 4K: 4K for less than 300€!
➡️ DJI Mini 2 SE: what is it worth? Our complete test

🤔 Curious to see how DJI stacks up against the competition? Find out which is the best drone between the DJI Mini 4K and the Potensic Atom.