DJI Mini SE vs Mini 2: which drone should you choose?

After the Mavic Miniand Mini 2, the DJI Mini SE is the latest in the ultra-popular DJI Mini series. But you will have noticed one important detail: although it was released last, it is cheaper than its predecessor. Why? What are the differences between the Mini 2 and the Mini SE? DJI Mini SE vs Mini 2, which one to choose?

Features at a glance

Here is a quick overview of the main features of the Mini SE and Mini 2:

	DJI Mini SE	DJI Mini 2
Dimensions (L x W x H)	138 x 81 x 58 mm folded 159 x 203 x 56 mm unfolded 245 x 289 x 56 mm unfolded with propellers	138 x 81 x 58 mm folded 159 x 203 x 56 mm unfolded 245 x 289 x 56 mm unfolded with propellers
Weight	<249g	<249g
Sensor	1/2.3″ CMOS	1/2.3″ CMOS
Photo resolution	12 MP	12 MP
Video resolution	2.7K/30fps	4K/30fps
Video transmission distance	4 km	10 km
Maximum speed	46.8 km/h	57.6 km/h
Maximum flight time	30 minutes	31 minutes
Maximum wind resistance	37.8 km/h	37.8 km/h
Price (at the time of writing)	299€ (standard version) 399€ (Fly More Combo)	459€ (standard version) 599€ (Fly More Combo)

DJI Mini SE vs Mini 2 : the designs

Both models have exactly the same dimensions: 138x81x58 mm (LxWxH) folded and 159x203x56 mm (LxWxH) when unfolded.

They also have the same foldable design and the same ultra-light weight of only 249g.

Their small size and light weight make them extremely easy to transport. They can be easily folded up and stored in a small bag for filming wherever you need to go.

The only real difference is the presence of a clickable camera status indicator on the Mini 2.

DJI Mini SE vs Mini 2: the camera

The biggest difference between the two drones is certainly in their camera capabilities.

The Mini 2 can shoot 4K/30fps video, while the Mini SE will have to make do with Quad HD video (2.7K/30fps). The Mini 2’s 4K allows you to shoot great footage, but the Mini SE’s 1080p quality may be more than enough depending on what you use it for, such as posting on YouTube or social networking sites.

The Mini 2 has a higher bit rate of 100 Mbps compared to 40 Mbps for the Mini SE. It also has better frame rate options (for example, it can shoot at 2.7K at 60fps), as well as a digital zoom function (4x) which is absent on the Mini SE.

Regarding the photo mode, both cameras are similar. They have the same 1/2.3″ CMOS sensor capturing images with a resolution of 12 megapixels. The only difference is that you can choose to capture photos in JPEG and RAW on the Mini 2, while the Mini SE will be limited to JPEG.

Also note that both quadcopters use the same 3-axis motorised gimbal which will ensure stable and smooth video in all conditions.

Shooting modes

Both drones are equipped with a range of intelligent shooting modes known as QuickShot.

The following modes are available on both the Mini 2 and the Mini SE:

• Dronie: the drone flies back and up and the camera locks onto the subject
• Helix : the drone climbs and spirals around the subject
• Circle : the drone turns around the subject
• Rocket : the drone rises into the sky with the camera pointing downwards

The Mini 2 has an additional QuickShot mode missing from the Mini SE, Boomerang mode, in which the drone flies around the subject in an oval trajectory, rising as it moves away from its starting point and falling as it returns.

The Mini 2 also includes other features not found in the Mini SE: the Panorama mode and its Sphere, 180° and Wide Angle features, the Enhanced Photo mode which allows automatically enhanced photos to be uploaded directly into the DJI Fly application, QuickTransfer, which allows you to automatically download and synchronize photos and videos simply by having the drone nearby, or the instant editing, which allows you to cut up footage by selecting only what you want to edit and upload while deleting the rest.

The DJI Fly app, on the other hand, is usable on both drones, with its variety of models, sounds and effects that you can apply to your photos and videos.

DJI Mini SE vs Mini 2 : performance on the fly

For drones of their size, the DJI Minis are truly reliable and capable devices.

Wind resistance

As mentioned earlier, the Mini SE is mounted in the frame of the Mini 2 and this is evident in its wind resistance. While the Mavic Mini has a wind resistance of 8 m/s (level 4), the Mini SE and Mini 2 both have a wind resistance of 8.5 to 10.5 m/s (level 5) and the difference is obvious when the wind picks up. The two newer models do very well.

Maximum altitude

The DJI Mini 2 has a higher maximum altitude than the DJI Mini SE, 4000 metres above sea level for the Mini 2 versus 3000 for the Mini SE.

Flying distance

Probably one of the biggest disappointments of the Mini SE. Where the latest addition to the DJI Mini range uses enhanced WiFi, the Mini 2 benefits from OcuSync 2.0, DJI’s revolutionary video transmission system, which extends its transmission range with stronger resistance to signal interference and automatic adjustments between two frequencies.

As a result, the Mini SE supports up to 4 km of HD video transmission, while the Mini 2 supports up to 10 km! As good as the largest consumer DJI drones.

What both drones have in common, however, is the use of the 2.4/5.8 GHz dual-frequency system: the transmission automatically switches between the two frequencies, thus cutting out interference and ensuring a reliable signal for maximum safety and flight quality.

Flight speed

When used in Sport mode, the Mini 2 is slightly faster than the Mini SE, with a speed of up to 16 m/s for the Mini 2 compared to 13 m/s for the Mini SE.

Flying time

Both drones have a maximum flight time of about 30 minutes (even 31 minutes for the Mini 2 but we won’t quibble), which is seriously impressive for drones of their size.

DJI Mini SE vs Mini 2: the remote control

The DJI Mini SE and Mini 2 come with two completely different remote controls.

The Mini 2 has a larger, sturdier controller, on which the smartphone is held by a bracket that comes out the top. The monitor is therefore at the top of the remote control, which is more convenient to operate, as the eyes need to move less.

The Mini SE’s remote control is more basic, with antennas at the top and folding arms underneath to hold the smartphone. The screen will therefore be below the controller. However, this remote control has the advantage of being much more compact and therefore easy to carry.

DJI Mini SE vs Mini 2: price

This is often a determining factor in the purchase decision! And this is certainly one of the biggest differences between the two models, with the Mini 2 having a higher price tag of £459 in the standard version and £599 in the Fly More version, compared to £299 in the standard version and £399 in the Fly More version for the Mini SE (at the time of writing).

This difference is due to the enhanced capabilities of the Mini 2, including its 4K camera and extended range. The Mini 2 is superior and that comes at a price, but it is truly impressive and you get what you pay for.

The Mini SE, on the other hand, offers great value for money. Although slightly inferior in some respects, it is clearly one of the best drones on the market.

Conclusion: which drone to choose?

The DJI Mini 2 and DJI Mini SE are sufficiently different that the answer to the question “which one should I choose?” worth thinking about.

If you are a content creator and video quality and transmission range are important, then the Mini 2 is clearly the best solution. It will cost you a little more, but you get what you pay for.

If you are price conscious and looking for the best value for money, then the Mini SE is for you! And frankly, its video quality will be more than ideal for posting on YouTube and social networks. Especially if you are a beginner, this is the perfect model to get started.