DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro: what are the differences?

Just launched, the DJI Mini 5 Pro promises to push back the limits of mini drones with its 1-inch sensor, 4K video at 120 fps and LiDAR detection. But until now, it’s been the DJI Mini 4 Pro that has reigned supreme in the sub-250g drone segment, with a reference camera, omnidirectional obstacle detection and all the advanced features you’d expect from a high-end drone. So, DJI Mini 5 Pro VS Mini 4 Pro: what are the real differences? Should you invest a little more to upgrade to the Mini 5 Pro, or is the Mini 4 Pro more than enough for your needs? All the answers in this comprehensive comparison.

DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro: What you need to know

No time to read everything? Or just a bit lazy? Here are the key points to remember from the DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro duel:

• 📸 Larger sensor on the Mini 5 Pro (1 inch vs. 1/1.3″), with real low-light gains and 225° rotation for greater creative freedom.
• 🚀 Upgraded flight performance: the Mini 5 Pro climbs and descends faster, resists wind better, and offers more responsive handling.
• 🔋 Autonomy almost identical, despite a slightly larger battery on the Mini 5 Pro.
• 📡 More robust video transmission with the O4+ on the Mini 5 Pro, same range but better stability in complex areas.
• 🎮 Same remote control compatibility (RC-N3, RC 2, RC Pro 2), but only the Mini 4 Pro is FPV compatible(Goggles 3 + RC Motion 3… for now).
• 🧠 LiDAR detection added on the Mini 5 Pro, complementing the 360° obstacle detection already present on both models.
• 💾 Much more generous internal storage: 42GB on the Mini 5 Pro versus just 2GB on the Mini 4 Pro.
• 🎒 Same launch price, but only the Mini 5 Pro’s Fly More packs include ND filters.

👉 To sum up: the Mini 5 Pro pushes the cursors further, but the Mini 4 Pro remains a safe bet. It’s up to you to see if the new features make the difference for your use.

DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro: Design

	DJI Mini 5 Pro	DJI Mini 4 Pro
Weight	249,9 g	< 249 g
Dimensions (folded, without helices) (L x W x H)	157 × 95 × 68 mm	148 x 94 x 64 mm
Dimensions (unfolded, with propellers) (L x W x H)	304 × 380 × 91 mm	298 x 373 x 101 mm
Internal storage	42 GB	2 GB
Class (UE)	C0	C0

🎨 Design and dimensions. The two drones are physically very similar, with only a few millimeters’ difference. The Mini 5 Pro is a little more massive (157 × 95 × 68 mm folded) than the Mini 4 Pro (148 × 94 × 64 mm). The Mini 5 Pro also features a darker tint and, above all, two additional sensors on the front, linked to the LiDAR system (to be explained in greater detail later).

⚡ Everyday practicality. The Mini 5 Pro has two notable assets: it turns on automatically as soon as the arms are unfolded (unlike the Mini 4 Pro) and its propellers benefit from a more practical quick-release fastening system (pressure + rotation, instead of small screws on the Mini 4 Pro).

💾 Internal storage and filters. Another important difference is that the Mini 5 Pro incorporates 42GB of internal memory, compared with just 2GB on the Mini 4 Pro, allowing you to save a session even without a microSD card. Finally, adding ND filters is also simplified: a simple clip on the lens of the Mini 5 Pro, whereas the Mini 4 Pro requires the lens protector to be removed.

🚦 Regulations
The DJI Mini 4 Pro is classified as C0 in Europe (under 250 g). The DJI Mini 5 Pro is also classified as C0 when used with its Standard Battery. In both cases, they can be flown in urban areas, including over uninvolved individuals (but not over crowds), without any training or exam. The maximum altitude remains limited to 120 m above the take-off point.
⚠️ However, using the DJI Mini 5 Pro Intelligent Flight Battery Plus increases the drone’s weight beyond 250 g. It is then classified as C1, which is subject to different regulations, including the requirement to complete the A1/A3 training course and comply with the rules applicable to this category.

DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro: Transmission and radio controls

	DJI Mini 5 Pro	DJI Mini 4 Pro
Compatible radio controls	DJI RC-N3 DJI RC 2 DJI RC Pro 2	DJI RC-N2/RC-N3 DJI RC 2 DJI RC Pro 2
Video transmission system	O4+	O4
Live preview quality	Up to 1080p at 60 fps	Up to 1080p at 60 fps
Max. transmission distance	FCC: 20 km CE: 10 km	FCC: 20 km CE: 10 km

📡 S ame range, but different protocol. The Mini 5 Pro is based on the brand-new O4+ transmission system, while the Mini 4 Pro already uses the excellent O4. In both cases, the maximum range remains identical (up to 10 km in Europe and 20 km in the FCC), with live video streaming up to 1080p at 60 fps. In open environments, both drones will go much further than necessary, but the O4+ promises a more stable connection in dense or disturbed areas, thanks to a more robust protocol and better interference management.

🎮 Identical remote control compatibility. Both drones can be combined with the DJI RC-N3 (or RC-N2), DJI RC 2, and the DJI RC Pro 2, the top-of-the-range remote control with ultra-bright(2000 nits) flip-up display. In use, these three options cover all profiles, from beginner to demanding videographer.

🕶️ FPV compatibility. The Mini 4 Pro has the advantage of being compatible with some of DJI’s immersive accessories, such as the DJI Goggles 3 and RC Motion 3, enabling it to be flown in FPV mode. For the Mini 5 Pro, nothing has yet been officially announced. But given DJI’s ecosystem and the logic followed so far, we can hope that this compatibility will be added in the future, to offer the same immersive experience.

DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro: Autonomy

	DJI Mini 5 Pro	DJI Mini 4 Pro
Battery	2788 mAh	2590 mAh
Autonomy	36 minutes	34 minutes
Charging time	69 min (via drone + 65W charger) 46 min (1 battery via docking station + 65W charger) 115 min (3 battery via docking station + 65W charger)	70 minutes (30W charger) 58 minutes (30W charger + charging station)

🔋 Capacity and announced autonomy. The Mini 5 Pro has a slightly larger battery(2788 mAh) than the Mini 4 Pro(2590 mAh). DJI has therefore announced a maximum autonomy of 36 minutes, compared with 34 minutes for its predecessor. Two minutes more on paper, but difficult to see in real-life conditions.

⏱️ Actual range. In practice, the figures are inevitably lower. Depending on the type of flight, the functions activated (obstacle avoidance, subject tracking, 4K recording, etc.) and even the weather, we’re talking more in the region of 20 to 25 effective minutes. As a result, when it comes to autonomy, it’s a draw between the two models.

⚡ Recharge time. Where the gap widens is on the recharging side. The Mini 5 Pro can regain 100% battery in around 69 minutes directly via the drone with a 65 W charger, and just 46 minutes for a single battery via the charging station. The Mini 4 Pro, on the other hand, remains a little slower: around 70 minutes with a 30 W charger, and 58 minutes via the charging station. Nothing revolutionary, but this gives the Mini 5 Pro a slight advantage in terms of day-to-day comfort, especially if you’re flying a lot.

🔋 A Battery Plus is now available for the Mini 5 Pro
DJI has recently introduced an Intelligent Flight Battery Plus with a capacity of 4,680 mAh for the Mini 5 Pro in Europe. It increases the drone’s maximum flight time to 52 minutes, with a typical flight time of 33 minutes, compared with 36 minutes and 21 minutes respectively using the Standard Battery.
However, this battery increases the drone’s weight beyond 250 g. The Mini 5 Pro is therefore reclassified from C0 to C1, which is subject to different regulations, including the requirement to complete the A1/A3 training course. The Mini 4 Pro does not offer this option.

DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro: In-flight performance

	DJI Mini 5 Pro	DJI Mini 4 Pro
Maximum speed	18 m/s	16 m/s
Max. ascent speed	10 m/s	5 m/s
Max. descent speed	6 m/s	5 m/s
Max. wind resistance	12 m/s	10.7 m/s

🚀 F light speeds. With the Mini 5 Pro, DJI has revised speeds in all directions. Top speed now reaches 18 m/s (65 km/h), compared with 16 m/s for the Mini 4 Pro. The same applies to ascent, from 5 to 10 m/s, and descent, from 5 to 6 m/s. The result is a more responsive drone in all phases of flight.

💨 Wind resistance. On paper, DJI claims a wind resistance of 12 m/s (43 km/h) for the Mini 5 Pro, compared with 10.7 m/s for its predecessor. In practice, it remains difficult to reach a definitive verdict, as available comparisons are not based on strictly identical conditions. That said, user feedback suggests that the Mini 5 Pro proves to be at least as stable as the Mini 4 Pro, including in sustained gusts, with an overall reassuring behavior in most situations.

DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro: Features

	DJI Mini 5 Pro	DJI Mini 4 Pro
Photo modes	Single shot, Auto exposure bracketing (AEB), Burst, Interval, Panoramas	Single shot, Auto exposure bracketing (AEB), Burst, Interval, Panoramas
Video modes	Normal video, Slow motion, Hyperlapse, QuickShots, MasterShots	Normal video, Slow motion, Hyperlapse, QuickShots, MasterShots
Intelligent modes	Subject tracking, Waypoint	Subject tracking, Waypoint
Obstacle detection	Omnidirectional binocular optical system + forward-looking LiDAR + infrared sensor under the drone	Omnidirectional binocular optical system + infrared sensor under the drone

Photo and video modes

On this point, there’s no great revolution: the Mini 5 Pro uses the same modes as the Mini 4 Pro (single shot, burst, panoramas, hyperlapse, MasterShots, etc.). The only difference comes from its rotating gondola, which gives it access to an additional QuickShot for even more variety in vertical shots.

Another practical detail: QuickTransfer in standby mode. On the Mini 5 Pro, you can transfer files to your smartphone without having to turn the drone on completely, with the added bonus of much faster throughput thanks to Wi-Fi 6 (up to 100 Mb/s vs. 30 Mb/s on the Mini 4 Pro).

Subject follow-up

The Mini 5 Pro benefits from an enhanced version of ActiveTrack 360. It is now possible to choose the type of target more precisely (person, cyclist, skier…), making tracking more flexible and better adapted to situations. The Mini 4 Pro is already very convincing in this field, but the Mini 5 Pro brings even more options and improved fluidity.

That said, even with these advances – and this is rather astonishing since all these models come from the same manufacturer – neither the Mini 4 Pro nor the Mini 5 Pro can match the tracking quality of drones specifically designed for this purpose, such as the DJI Flip or DJI Neo.

In-flight safety

Both models feature omnidirectional obstacle detection, but the Mini 5 Pro stands out thanks to the addition of a forward-facing LiDAR sensor. This enhances detection reliability, particularly in low-light conditions or in very cluttered environments.

Another major difference: the Mini 5 Pro introduces an intelligent HTN. Unlike the conventional system, it can operate even if the GPS is lost. The drone visually records its surroundings during take-off, and can then autonomously find its starting point. A real added safety feature, especially in urban areas or forests.

DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro : Image

	DJI Mini 5 Pro	DJI Mini 4 Pro
Sensor	1-inch CMOS	1/1.3-inch CMOS
Objective	24mm equivalent format F/1.8 aperture FOV 84° (French only)	24 mm equivalent format Aperture f/1.7 FOV 82.1
Photo resolution	12 and 50 MP	12 and 48 MP
Max. video resolution	4K up to 120 fps 1080p up to 240 fps	4K up to 100 fps 1080p up to 200 fps
ISO range	100 à 12800	100 à 12800
Max. bit rate	130 Mb/s	150 Mb/s
Digital zoom	12 MP photo: 1 to 3x 4K: 1 to 3x FHD: 1 to 4x	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 or 10 bits) HLG (10 bits) D-Log M (10 bits)	Normal (8 bits) HLG (10 bits) D-log M (10 bits)

Two rotating gondolas, but not the same amplitude

Like the Mini 4 Pro, the Mini 5 Pro can tilt the camera vertically to film in true portrait mode, without cropping and making full use of the sensor – ideal for social networking.

What’s new is rotation on the roll axis: the Mini 5 Pro allows up to 225° of rotation (vs. ~90° on the Mini 4 Pro), opening the door to controlled tilts and more dynamic effects. The range remains shorter than on the pro models, but it’s already a real plus when it comes to staging.

Sensors and resolutions

The main difference lies in the 1-inch sensor of the Mini 5 Pro (vs 1/1.3″ on the Mini 4 Pro), a point we explore in more detail in our DJI Mini 5 Pro review: it captures more light, with a slightly wider field of view (84° vs 82.1°) and an f/1.8 aperture (f/1.7 on the Mini 4 Pro).

In terms of definition, the Mini 5 Pro shoots at 12/50 MP(12/48 MP on the Mini 4 Pro); in video, both shoot at 4K/60, but the Mini 5 Pro goes up to 4K/120 for slow-motion shots (and 1080p/240 vs. 1080p/200). Finally, its 2x “48 mm” mode is an intelligent crop of the sensor that limits loss far better than a conventional digital zoom, offering a second usable focal length.

Image quality

In good light, it’s hard to tell the two apart: solid colorimetry, clean rendering and convincing sharpness on both sides.

It’s when the light drops or the scene is high-contrast that the Mini 5 Pro takes advantage: its 1″ sensor offers a wider dynamic range (up to 14 stops), cleaner shadows and better-hold highlights. In low light, the Mini 5 Pro clearly stands out from the crowd, with more detailed images and less noise than the Mini 4 Pro.

DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro: Packs and prices

	DJI Mini 5 Pro	DJI Mini 4 Pro
Standard package (RC-N2 or RC-N3)	799 € See on Amazon	799 € See on Amazon
Standard package (RC 2)	–	999 € See on Amazon
Fly More Pack (RC-N3)	999 € See on Amazon	–
Fly More Pack (RC 2)	1129 € See on Amazon	1129 € See on Amazon
Fly More Plus Pack (DJI RC 2)	1189 €	–

It is rare enough to be worth mentioning: the DJI Mini 5 Pro was launched at exactly the same price as the Mini 4 Pro. The main configurations therefore remain priced the same as their predecessor. Since then, however, DJI has introduced a new Fly More Plus Bundle priced at €1,189, available exclusively for the Mini 5 Pro.

Here is a reminder of the main configurations available for each model:

• Standard pack (€799 ): includes drone, RC-N3 radio control system, battery, spare propellers, pod cover, two RC cables (USB-C and Lightning) and one USB-C cable.
• Fly More pack with RC-N3 (€999 – Mini 5 Pro only): adds two extra batteries (three in total), a two-way charging station, a carrying case, three pairs of spare propellers and a set of ND filters (ND8/32/128).
• Standard pack + DJI RC 2 (€999 – Mini 4 Pro only): same contents as the standard pack, but with the DJI RC 2 remote control with integrated display instead of the RC-N2/RC-N3, and a single battery.
• Fly More pack with DJI RC 2 (€1129): for the Mini 5 Pro, identical to the Fly More pack with RC-N3, but with the DJI RC 2. For the Mini 4 Pro, same overall content… but without the ND filters.
• Fly More Plus Bundle with DJI RC 2 (€1,189 – Mini 5 Pro only): includes everything from the Fly More Bundle with DJI RC 2, but replaces the three Standard Batteries with three Intelligent Flight Battery Plus units. It also includes the Two-Way Charging Hub, the shoulder bag, ND filters (ND8/32/128), and the storage cover.

It is worth noting that ND filters are only included with the Mini 5 Pro Fly More Bundles. The Mini 5 Pro is also the only one of the two models to offer a Fly More Plus Bundle, equipped with three Intelligent Flight Battery Plus units.

Conclusion DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro: Which drone to choose?

With its 1-inch sensor, freer nacelle, revised flight speeds , LiDAR detection and twenty-fold increase in internal storage, the DJI Mini 5 Pro ticks more boxes than ever… while remaining under the 250g mark and without a price hike. Clearly, it’s the new king of this category: no other drone this compact offers so many possibilities today.

That said, the Mini 4 Pro remains a true benchmark. Until recently, it was the most complete ultralight drone on the market, and it still has a lot going for it: the same omnidirectional detection system, the same radio compatibility, the same intelligent modes… and, above all, a distinct advantage: for the time being, it’s the only one of the two that can be flown in FPV with DJI Goggles 3 and RC Motion radio control.

🤔 Hesitating between the two? If both models are offered at the same price, the choice is quickly made: the Mini 5 Pro brings more possibilities, notably thanks to its more ambitious sensor. But we can expect the price of the Mini 4 Pro to drop in the coming weeks. And if so, it could once again become an option for those who don’t need the latest features. It has long dominated this category, and remains a safe bet, both for experienced pilots and for professional or demanding use.

I already have a Mini 4 Pro: should I upgrade to the DJI Mini 5 Pro?

Not necessarily. The Mini 4 Pro remains an excellent drone, more than capable of covering the majority of applications, even advanced ones. If you’re happy with what it has to offer today, there’s no need to change.

The Mini 5 Pro certainly brings some real novelties, but they’re not essential for everyone. The 1-inch sensor offers a real gain in low light, LiDAR can be reassuring in complex environments… but if these points have never really limited you, you can stick with your Mini 4 Pro without frustration.

In short : unless you have a specific need or the urge to get the most out of your drone on certain specific terrains, you can keep your Mini 4 Pro without feeling left behind.

FAQ: DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro

What is the main difference between the DJI Mini 5 Pro and the Mini 4 Pro?

The biggest difference is the camera system. The DJI Mini 5 Pro features a 1-inch sensor and an additional LiDAR sensor, improving image quality in low light and enhancing obstacle detection. It also offers faster flight performance, more internal storage, and a wider gimbal rotation range.

Does the DJI Mini 5 Pro deliver better image quality than the Mini 4 Pro?

Yes. Thanks to its larger 1-inch sensor, the DJI Mini 5 Pro captures more light and offers improved dynamic range. The difference is especially noticeable in low-light conditions, where images show less noise and better detail retention.

Is the DJI Mini 5 Pro faster than the Mini 4 Pro?

Yes. The DJI Mini 5 Pro reaches a top speed of 18 m/s, compared with 16 m/s for the Mini 4 Pro. It also climbs significantly faster and handles windy conditions more confidently.

Does the DJI Mini 5 Pro offer better battery life?

Not significantly. DJI advertises up to 36 minutes of flight time for the Mini 5 Pro versus 34 minutes for the Mini 4 Pro. In real-world conditions, both drones generally provide similar flight times.

Is the DJI Mini 4 Pro FPV compatible?

Yes. The DJI Mini 4 Pro is compatible with DJI Goggles 3 and DJI RC Motion 3, allowing for an immersive FPV flying experience.

Is the DJI Mini 5 Pro FPV compatible?

No official FPV compatibility has been announced for the DJI Mini 5 Pro at this time. Unlike the Mini 4 Pro, it cannot currently be used with DJI Goggles 3 or DJI RC Motion 3.

Should I upgrade from the DJI Mini 4 Pro to the DJI Mini 5 Pro?

Not necessarily. The Mini 4 Pro remains an excellent drone for most users. Upgrading mainly makes sense if you specifically want the larger sensor, LiDAR obstacle detection, improved low-light performance, or the new gimbal capabilities.

DJI Mini 5 Pro or Mavic 4 Pro: which one should you choose?

The DJI Mini 5 Pro is the better choice if portability, sub-250 g regulations, and ease of use are your priorities. The Mavic 4 Pro is aimed at more demanding users who need superior image quality, multiple focal lengths, and advanced professional features.

💡 Read our full tests of the two protagonists in this DJI Mini 5 Pro VS Mini 4 Pro duel:
➡️ Our full review of the DJI Mini 5 Pro
➡️ Our detailed analysis of the DJI Mini 4 Pro

👉 To complete your setup, also check out our guide to DJI Mini 4 Pro accessories.

💡 Also read
➡️ Discover why the DJI Mini 5 Pro is considered one of the leading references for the best drone of 2026.
➡️ DJI is now renewing its entry-level lineup with the Lito series: discover our review of the DJI Lito X1 drone.
➡️ Are you hesitating between the DJI Mini 4 Pro and the new DJI Lito X1? Discover the differences between the DJI Lito X1 and the Mini 4 Pro.
➡️ Can’t decide between the DJI Mini 5 Pro and the DJI Lito X1? Check out our DJI Mini 5 Pro or Lito X1 comparison.