DJI Neo vs DJI Mini 3: which drone to choose?

With the arrival of the DJI Neo, DJI introduces an innovative model that positions itself as an affordable option for beginners and simplicity enthusiasts. Opposite it, the DJI Mini 3, one of the flagship models in the Mini range, continues to seduce with its excellent value for money. If you’re hesitating between these two models, you’re not alone: DJI Neo vs DJI Mini 3, which drone best suits your needs? In this article, we compare these two models in detail to guide you in your decision.

DJI Neo vs DJI Mini 3: Design

	DJI Neo	DJI Mini 3
Weight	135 g	248 g
Dimensions	130 x 157 x 48.5 mm	148 × 90 × 62 mm (folded, without propellers) 251 × 362 × 72mm (unfolded, with propellers)
Internal storage	22 Go	–

Two designs, two philosophies

The DJI Neo and DJI Mini 3 feature distinct designs, conceived for very specific uses.

The DJI Neo falls into the Cinewhoop drone category. Its integrated design with a permanent protective frame around the propellers makes it an excellent choice for flights indoors or in confined spaces. This structure considerably reduces the risk of damage, both to the drone and to its environment.

In contrast, the DJI Mini 3 features the foldable design characteristic of the Mini range. Although its propellers are exposed, it is possible to add protective covers if required. Its foldable design makes it easy to transport and store in confined spaces.

Portability: lightweight versus compact

For travelers and hikers, portability is often a key criterion. Here, the DJI Neo and DJI Mini 3 each offer distinct advantages.

The DJI Neo stands out for its featherweight of 135 g, making it ideal for travelers or hiking enthusiasts. Its light weight reduces transport fatigue, which is particularly useful on long excursions.

For its part, the DJI Mini 3, although a little heavier at 248 g, is designed to maximize compactness. When folded, its reduced dimensions (148 x 90 x 62 mm) make it easier to slip into a backpack pocket or dedicated pouch, surpassing the Neo in terms of volume occupied. If storage space is a priority criterion, the Mini 3 has the edge.

Regulations: perfect equality

In terms of regulations, these two models are in the same category. Their respective weights enable them to belong to the C0 category in Europe, which applies to drones weighing less than 250g. This classification guarantees more flexible use in many European countries.

In practical terms, this means you can fly over residential, commercial or recreational areas. However, flying over public areas in built-up areas remains prohibited. Although it is permitted to fly briefly over people unintentionally, flying over gatherings of people is strictly forbidden.

🏆 DJI Neo advantage : for its lightness and safe indoor flying.
🏆 DJI Mini 3 advantage: compact when folded.

DJI Neo vs DJI Mini 3: Piloting

	DJI Neo	DJ Mini 3
Control methods	Autonomous flight Application Classic flight FPV flight	Classic control
Compatible radio controls	DJI RC-N3 DJI RC-N2 DJI RC 2 Radio control 3 DJI FPV DJI RC Motion 3	DJI RC-N1 DJI RC
Video transmission system	DJI O4	DJI O2
Max. transmission distance	FCC: 10 km CE: 6 km	FCC: 10 km CE: 6 km
Live preview quality	up to 1080p at 60 fps	720p at 30 fps

DJI Neo: an all-in-one drone for all flying styles

The DJI Neo impresses with its versatility and multiple control options, making it suitable for beginners and experienced pilots alike. In its basic configuration, it can fly entirely autonomously, or be piloted via a smartphone using the DJI Fly app and its virtual controls, an intuitive and easy-to-use solution.

For those looking for even more possibilities, the Neo offers even more. With the Fly More package, which includes the DJI RC-N3 radio control system, or by using a DJI RC-N2 or DJI RC 2 (with integrated display), the Neo transforms itself into a traditional drone with extended range, going beyond the limits of WiFi. This configuration makes it possible to use the full version of the DJI Fly application, giving access to a wide range of advanced settings and flight modes.

Immersive flight enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that the DJI Neo is also compatible with DJI FPV equipment. Using the DJI 3 FPV remote control, the RC Motion 3 controller, or the Goggles 3 and Goggles N3 goggles, you can experience fully immersive flight, with a live video feed directly in front of your eyes.

Last but not least, the Neo incorporates the latest-generation DJI O4 video transmission system, guaranteeing a stable connection and video return quality of up to 1080p at 60 fps.

DJI Mini 3: a simple, effective drone

The DJI Mini 3, on the other hand, opts for a more classic design, perfectly suited to traditional flying. Unlike the Neo, it has neither stand-alone mode nor compatibility with FPV accessories. This model is designed to be piloted using the DJI RC-N1 remote control, on which all you need to do is install your smartphone. For added convenience, it is also compatible with the DJI RC remote control, equipped with an integrated screen. The latter offers a simplified flying experience by eliminating the need for a connected smartphone.

In terms of video transmission, the Mini 3 relies on the OcuSync 2.0 system. Although slightly less efficient than the Neo’s O4 system, it remains highly reliable and offers 720p video feedback at 30 frames per second. This system, recognized since its introduction with the Mavic 2 in 2018, continues to guarantee a solid connection and excellent in-flight stability.

🏆 DJI Neo advantage: for its unique versatility, combining the functionalities of a selfie drone, a classic drone and an FPV drone.

DJI Neo vs DJI Mini 3: Autonomy

	DJI Neo	DJI Mini 3
Batteries	1435 mAh	2453 mAh
Autonomy	18 minutes (17 minutes with propeller protection)	38 minutes

Two very different performances

The autonomy of the DJI Neo and DJI Mini 3 varies considerably, largely due to the capacity of their respective batteries.

The DJI Neo is equipped with a compact 1435 mAh battery, giving it a theoretical autonomy of 18 minutes, according to DJI’s official data, provided the propeller guards are removed. In our tests, this time was closer to 13 to 14 minutes in real-life conditions. Although this autonomy may seem limited, it is perfectly suited to the uses for which the Neo was designed, such as short videos or aerial selfies. However, for more prolonged or immersive flights, notably in FPV mode, this limited capacity can quickly become a brake, necessitating the purchase of additional batteries to enjoy longer sessions.

By contrast, the DJI Mini 3, with its more powerful 2453 mAh battery, stands out for its endurance. DJI claims a theoretical autonomy of up to 38 minutes. In practice, under normal conditions, it is possible to fly for around 30 minutes, which is a significant improvement on the Neo. This extended autonomy is particularly advantageous for capturing varied footage, exploring vast landscapes, or simply flying for longer without being interrupted to change the battery.

A choice based on your needs

The difference in range between these two models can be explained by their design: the lightweight, compact Neo incorporates a smaller battery to maintain maneuverability. This reduced autonomy is sufficient for fast, dynamic use, but shows its limits for longer flights.

On the other hand, the Mini 3, with its higher capacity, allows longer flights and better meets the needs of users seeking greater freedom of flight.

🏆 DJI Mini 3 advantage: almost twice the autonomy.

DJI Neo vs DJI Mini 3: In flight

	DJI Neo	DJI Mini 3
Maximum speed	6 m/s (Normal mode) 8 m/s (Sport mode) 16 m/s (Manual mode)	16 m/s
Max. ascent speed	0.5 m/s (Cine mode) 2 m/s (Normal mode) 3 m/s (Sport mode)	5 m/s
Max. descent speed	0.5 m/s (Cine mode) 2 m/s (Normal mode) 2 m/s (Sport mode)	3.5 m/s
Max. wind resistance	8 m/s (level 4)	10.7 m/s (level 5)

Flight performance

True to the brand’s reputation, the DJI Neo and DJI Mini 3 offer outstanding flying performance. Their stability, responsiveness and maneuverability make them reliable choices for smooth, enjoyable flights.

The DJI Mini 3 stands out in particular for the power of its motors, which enable it to boast superior climbing (5 m/s vs. 3 m/s for the Neo) and descending (3.5 m/s vs. 2 m/s for the Neo) performances. In terms of horizontal speed, both models reach a maximum of 16 m/s (57.6 km/h), but this performance is only available in FPV mode for the Neo.

Wind resistance

One of the Mini 3 ‘s strengths lies in its ability to cope with windy conditions, thanks to its combination of weight, size and engine power. It can fly in winds of up to 10.7 m/s (level 5, or around 36 km/h), while the Neo is limited to winds of 8 m/s (level 4, or around 28.8 km/h).

This improved wind resistance is essential, especially when shooting in demanding outdoor environments. On top of this, the Mini 3 is equipped with a three-axis stabilized gondola, which guarantees smooth, sharp images, even in slightly turbulent conditions. The Neo, with its more limited stabilization, could show its limitations in more sustained winds.

🏆 DJI Mini 3 advantage: superior wind resistance and optimal stabilization.

DJI Neo vs DJI Mini 3: Features

	DJI Neo	DJI Mini 3
Photo modes	Single shot Interval shot	Single shot Interval shot Automatic exposure bracketing (AEB)
Video modes	QuickShots Subject tracking	QuickShots

QuickShots: automatic modes for both drones

DJI’s essential QuickShots feature on the DJI Neo and DJI Mini 3. These automated flight modes make it easy to capture spectacular videos thanks to pre-programmed aerial trajectories.

Here are the main QuickShots available on both drones:

• Dronie: the drone gradually moves away to capture an overview before returning to its starting point.
• Circle: the drone flies in a circle around the subject, offering an immersive perspective.
• Rocket: rises vertically while keeping the camera fixed on you, ideal for dramatic shots.
• Spiral: the drone follows a spiral trajectory around the subject, creating an impressive visual effect.
• Boomerang: this mode flies the drone around the subject in an elliptical motion, like a boomerang, for dynamic panoramic video.

Photo modes: the Mini 3 has the edge

DJI Neo and DJI Mini 3 share some essential photo features, including interval photo mode, which lets you capture images at regular intervals.

However, the DJI Mini 3 goes one step further by offering two exclusive modes:

• AEB (Auto Exposure Bracketing) mode : captures three photos in a burst with different exposures, creating an HDR effect for more detailed images.
• Panorama mode: perfect for landscapes, this mode lets you take panoramic photos with three options: Wide Angle, 180° and Sphere, for impressive perspectives.

These additional photo features make the Mini 3 particularly interesting for aerial photography enthusiasts.

Subject tracking: a plus for the Neo

Designed as a true flying selfie pole, the DJI Neo stands out for its ability to recognize and follow a person as they move, a feature absent from the Mini 3. This intelligent tracking mode makes the Neo an ideal little flying cameraman for capturing your activities on foot, while running, or even while cycling, as long as your speed remains moderate.

The 3 tracking modes available on the Neo :

• Intelligent tracking: the drone detects your face, follows you from behind, and keeps you in the center of the frame. You can adjust the distance and height in the parameters.
• DirectionTrack: in this mode, the drone positions itself in front of you or at a predefined angle (facing you or at an angle) and maintains this position as you move.
• Spotlight: more a framing mode than classic tracking, it locks the subject into the image by adjusting the camera and drone position. Perfect for vloggers who want to stay in the center of the action while on the move.

🏆 DJI Neo advantage: for its ability to follow a subject.
🏆 DJI Mini 3 advantage: for its advanced photo features.

DJI Neo vs DJI Mini 3 : Image

	DJI Neo	DJI Mini 3
Sensor	1/2 inch	1/1.3 inch
Lens	14 mm equivalent format Aperture: f/2.8 FOV 117.6	24 mm equivalent format Aperture: f/1.7 FOV 82.1
Stabilization	Single-axis mechanical gondola (tilt)	3-axis mechanical gondola (tilt, roll, panorama)
Max photo resolution	12 MP	48 MP
Max video resolution	4K up to 30 fps 1080p up to 60 fps 1080p (vertical) up to 60 fps	4K up to 30 fps 2.7K up to 60 fps 1080p up to 60 fps
ISO range	100 à 6400	100 à 3200
Max bit rate	75 Mb/s	100 Mb/s
Photo format	JPEG	JPEG DNG (RAW)
Video format	MP4	MP4 (MPEG-4 AVC/H.264)
Color profile	Normal	Normal
Digital Zoom	–	4K: 2x 2.7K: 3x 1080p: 4x

Two distinct stabilization systems

The stabilization systems of the DJI Neo and DJI Mini 3 differ considerably, reflecting their respective designs:

• The DJI Neo is equipped with a gondola stabilized only on the tilt axis (up/down). For the other axes, it uses digital stabilization technologies, including RockSteady and HorizonBalancing, to maintain a stable image in moderate conditions.
• The DJI Mini 3, on the other hand, features a mechanical gondola stabilized on three axes : tilt, roll and pan.

The Neo’s digital stabilization delivers decent results in the absence of wind, but as soon as conditions become more turbulent, its limitations become apparent, and the drone’s movements can be reflected in the videos. In contrast, the Mini 3’s nacelle, with its advanced mechanical stabilization, guarantees smooth, stable images, even when the drone is subjected to severe turbulence.

A rotating camera for the Mini 3

The DJI Mini 3 is also distinguished by its rotating gondola, a real asset for social network-oriented content creators. This system tilts the camera into vertical mode and captures 4K portrait videos, ideal for TikTok or Instagram Stories.

The Neo, on the other hand, offers only vertical cropping in its 4K videos, with resolution reduced to 1080p. If your priority is to produce portrait-format content, the Mini 3 is the obvious choice for higher-quality video.

Sensor, resolution and image quality

The differences between the Neo and Mini 3 don’t stop at stabilization. The Mini 3 has a slightly larger sensor (1/1.3 inch vs. 1/2 inch for the Neo), which improves its performance in low-light and high-contrast conditions.

Photo and video resolutions :

• The Neo captures 12 MP photos, while the Mini 3 offers both 12 MP and 48 MP shots thanks to its Quad Bayer technology.
• In video, both drones can shoot in 4K at up to 30 frames per second, but neither offers a flat color profile, limiting post-processing options.

Raw format for photography :

A notable advantage of the Mini 3 is its compatibility with the DNG (RAW) format for photos, ideal for users who wish to retouch their images with precision. The Neo, on the other hand, only offers JPEG files, less suited to advanced retouching.

Visual rendering :

Both drones offer solid image quality, especially in daylight with sufficient light. The Neo, with its slightly wider field of view, produces an immersive rendering, while the Mini 3, thanks to its larger sensor, fares better in difficult conditions. Its superior dynamic range enables better management of light and shadow zones, offering richer detail in backlighting or high-contrast scenes.

🏆 DJI Mini 3 advantage: for advanced stabilization and superior image quality.

DJI Neo vs DJI Mini 3: Price

	DJI Neo	DJI Mini 3
Without radio control	199€ See on Amazon	299€ See on Amazon
Standard package (DJI RC-N1)	–	379€ See on Amazon
Standard pack (DJI RC)	–	499€ See on Amazon
Fly More Pack (DJI RC-N1)	349€ See on Amazon	529€ See on Amazon
Fly More Pack (DJI RC)	–	649€ See on Amazon
Motion Fly More pack (FPV pack)	529€ See on Amazon	–

Versions without remote control

Both drones are offered in basic versions, without remote control, ideal for those wishing to limit their budget or who already have compatible equipment.

• DJI Neo (Standard Pack): at 199€, this pack includes everything you need for autonomous flight, including a spare pair of propellers and a nacelle protector.
• DJI Mini 3 (drone only): priced at €299, this option is aimed at pilots equipped with a compatible DJI remote control.

Other available options

When it comes to the packages on offer, the differences between the two models become more marked.

• The DJI Mini 3 is available in a standard package (without additional battery) with a choice of the DJI RC-N1 remote control or the DJI RC with integrated display.
• For its part, the DJI Neo offers a unique option: the Motion Fly More FPV package, designed for immersive flying enthusiasts thanks to its compatibility with DJI equipment such as Goggles and the Motion RC controller.

Let’s compare equivalent packs

For a true price comparison, let’s look at the Fly More pack with RC-N1 radio control, which is almost identical for both drones. This pack includes interesting accessories such as 3 batteries and a charging station, perfect for extending your flying sessions.

• The DJI Neo Fly More is competitively priced at €349.
• The DJI Mini 3 Fly More, meanwhile, retails for €529, a significant difference for similar functionality.

🏆 The DJI Neo advantage : the economical choice par excellence.

DJI Neo vs DJI Mini 3: Which is right for you?

The DJI Neo and DJI Mini 3 are two remarkable drones, each offering specific features that meet different needs. Although both can film in 4K with respectable daylight quality, their distinct features position them for a variety of uses.

👍🏻 DJI Neo highlights

The DJI Neo stands out for its light weight and more affordable price. A true all-in-one, this versatile drone is capable of evolving according to your needs: it can go from a simple selfie drone to a classic drone or even an FPV configuration. It also features an automatic tracking function, ideal for capturing your movements effortlessly, making it the perfect companion for vloggers.

👍🏻 DJI Mini 3 highlights

For its part, the DJI Mini 3 shines in terms of compactness when folded, extended battery life and improved in-flight stability . Its camera offers a more complete experience, with slightly better image quality and optimized stabilization. It lends itself particularly well to high-altitude flights and panoramic shots, ideal for spectacular snapshots or wide-angle videos.

A drone for every purpose

These two models meet radically different needs. The DJI Neo is aimed at users looking for a versatile, intuitive drone, designed for close-up shots and scenarios where automatic tracking is a major asset. It excels as a creative tool for those who want to capture spontaneous, immersive moments, without worrying about piloting.

The DJI Mini 3, on the other hand, is more oriented towards a traditional flying experience. It’s designed to explore the skies at high altitude and capture shots with a wider field of view. Its ruggedness and ability to fly long distances make it a preferred choice for aerial photography enthusiasts and content creators looking for professional rendering.

Choose the DJI Neo if…

• You need a drone that can follow you automatically to film your adventures effortlessly.
• You want to explore many facets of piloting, from automatic to FPV, with a single device.

Choose the DJI Mini 3 if…

• You’re looking for a drone specially optimized for traditional flying, with exemplary stability.
• You create optimized content for social networks, particularly in vertical format.

Discover our full tests of the two drones in this DJI Neo vs DJI Mini 3 comparison :
➡️ DJI Neo, full review: selfie drone and more!
➡️ DJI Mini 3: our full test