DJI Neo vs HOVERAir X1: which drone to choose?

The “selfie drone” market really took off with the release of Zero Zero Robotics’ HOVERAir X1, paving the way for a new generation of drones designed to capture spontaneous moments with ease. But the industry’s undisputed leader, DJI, is responding with its own model, the Neo, which follows in the X1’s footsteps while bringing its own unique know-how to the table. So, DJI Neo vs HOVERAir X1, what are the differences between the two models? Which is the best? And above all, which one is right for you? All the answers in our comprehensive comparison!

DJI Neo vs HOVERAir X1 : Design

	DJI Neo	HOVERAir X1
Weight	135 g	125 g
Dimensions	130 x 157 x 48.5 mm	127 x 86 x 31 mm (folded) 127 x 145 x 30 mm (unfolded)
Internal storage	22 Go	32 GB

Although the DJI Neo and HOVERAir X1 have quite different designs from an aesthetic point of view, they have relatively similar dimensions and both fit in the hand. The Neo measures 130 mm in length and 157 mm in width, while the X1 is slightly more compact at 127 mm long and 145 mm wide, it’s also slightly thinner (30 mm vs. 48.5 mm). Weight-wise, the difference is negligible: 135 g for the Neo and 125 g for the X1.

The main distinction in terms of design is that the HOVERAir X1 can be folded lengthwise, which is a big plus when it comes to transportation. Once folded, it fits easily into a jacket pocket, a real advantage for users on the move.

Designed to take off and land on the hand, both drones are equipped with protections that completely cover the propellers. Those of the Neo, inspired by the DJI Avata 2, adopt a CineWhoop-type frame with upper (removable) and lower protections. The X1, on the other hand, uses softer plastic cages. While both systems are effective, the Neo’s protections are stiffer and seem to resist better in the event of impact.

The two drones also share a similar design on the top of the central body, with two buttons: one for starting, switching off and taking off, and another for selecting the automatic flight mode.

Finally, on the storage front, neither has a memory card slot, but both feature internal memory. In this respect, the HOVERAir X1 has the edge, with 32 GB of storage, versus 22 GB for the DJI Neo.

🥇 HOVERAir X1 advantage for its ultra-compact folding format and additional 10GB of memory.

🚨 Note on regulations
With their featherweights, the DJI Neo (135 g) and HOVERAir X1 (125 g) are both well below the 250 g limit. They are classified in category C0, which allows them to fly legally over residential, commercial, industrial or recreational areas, as well as over people, provided such overflights are occasional and of short duration. Although regulations vary from country to country, in France, as in many other countries, a simple online registration is required due to the presence of a camera on these devices. Both drones are therefore perfectly equal before the law.

DJI Neo vs HOVERAir X1: Flight options

	DJI Neo	HOVERAir X1
Control methods	Autonomous flight Application Classic piloting (DJI RC-N3, DJI RC-N2, DJI RC 2) FPV piloting (DJI FPV Radio Control 3, DJI RC Motion 3)	Autonomous flight Application
Maximum transmission distance	Application: 50 meters Conventional and FPV piloting: 10 km FCC / 6 km CE	30 meters

Both the DJI Neo and the HOVERAir X1 offer a variety of flight modes. They are distinguished above all by their ability to fly completely autonomously, but they can also be controlled manually. Where the X1 comes without a remote control, flying via its mobile app or in autonomous mode, the DJI Neo goes a step further by being compatible with several radio controls, offering a wider range of control methods.

Autonomous flight

Both drones, the DJI Neo and the HOVERAir X1, are capable of 100% autonomous flight, thanks to pre-programmed flight paths. Simply press the button on top of the drone to select a mode, then launch directly from your hand.

The mobile app also enables these modes to be triggered, with the option of customizing certain parameters, such as distance or flight height. The apps for both drones offer similar functionality in this respect.

In terms of available flight modes, both models offer a subject tracking mode in which the drone follows a moving person. They also feature a stationary tracking mode (called “Spotlight” for the Neo and “Hover” for the X1), where the drone remains in place and pivots to follow the subject.

Both drones also offer QuickShots modes, enabling pre-programmed trajectories for capturing dynamic videos. The Neo is slightly better equipped with a few additional modes, but the main ones can be found on both models:

• Dronie (Neo) / Zoom Out (X1): The drone moves away from the subject and then returns.
• Circle (Neo) / Orbit (X1): The drone rotates around the subject.
• Rocket (Neo) / Bird’s Eye (X1): The drone climbs vertically with the camera pointing down, then descends.

Manual control via the application

DJI Neo and HOVERAir X1 can also be controlled via their respective mobile applications: HOVERAir for the X1 and a simplified version of DJI Fly for the Neo. Both applications offer virtual joysticks for piloting the drone, and real-time visualization of the image captured by the camera.

However, as the connection between the smartphone and the drone is via WiFi, the flight range is limited: around 30 meters horizontally and 15 meters high for the X1, while the Neo can fly up to 50 meters.

Remote control (exclusive to DJI Neo)

This is where the DJI Neo comes into its own. Unlike the X1, which is limited to autonomous flight and app-based piloting, the Neo is compatible with several DJI remote controls.

You can use it with the new DJI RC-N3 remote control, or the DJI RC-N2 and DJI RC 2 remote controls, already compatible with the Mini 4 Pro and Air 3. The DJI RC 2 even has a built-in screen, so you don’t have to connect your smartphone.

With a remote control, you can fly the DJI Neo like a conventional drone, without being limited by WiFi range. Thanks to O4 transmission, you can fly at maximum distances of 10 km in FCC and 6 km in CE, while accessing the full DJI Fly app, with all advanced settings and modes, including a more comprehensive tracking mode, cruise control mode and manual camera settings.

FPV piloting (exclusive to DJI Neo)

The DJI Neo goes one step further by being compatible with DJI FPV equipment, such as DJI Goggles 3, DJI FPV 3 radio control and DJI RC Motion 3 gyro controller, which can be controlled with just one hand. This enables an ultra-immersive flying experience with visual feedback directly into the goggles, while enjoying the drone’s maximum speeds.

🥇 DJI Neo advantage: More versatile, it’s positioned as a selfie drone, a classic drone and an FPV drone all in one.

DJI Neo vs HOVERAir X1: In-flight performance

	DJI Neo	HOVERAir X1
Maximum speed	6 m/s (Normal mode) 8 m/s (Sport mode) 16 m/s (Manual mode)	7 m/s
Max. ascent speed	0.5 m/s (Cine mode) 2 m/s (Normal mode) 3 m/s (Sport mode)	1.5 m/s
Max. descent speed	0.5 m/s (Cine mode) 2 m/s (Normal mode) 2 m/s (Sport mode)	1.5 m/s
Max. wind resistance	8 m/s (level 4)	7.9m/s (level 4)
Positioning	Optical sensors + GPS	Optical sensors

In-flight positioning

Interestingly, the two drones use different technologies to position themselves in flight. The DJI Neo relies on GPS positioning, combined with optical sensors on the underside of the drone to stabilize itself relative to the ground. The HOVERAir X1, on the other hand, has no GPS and positions itself solely on the basis of its optical sensors, which calculate its position according to its movements relative to the ground.

Both systems are efficient, but each has its own advantages. The HOVERAir X1 has the advantage of a quicker start-up, as it does not require any pre-calibration before take-off. On the other hand, its lack of GPS means that in the event of a lost connection, it won’t be able to automatically return to its starting point, which can be a problem depending on where you’re using it.

Wind speed and resistance

In autonomous mode or controlled via smartphone, the two drones boast fairly similar maximum speeds: 8 m/s(28 km/h) for the DJI Neo and 7 m/s (25.2 km/h) for the HOVERAir X1. That’s enough to follow a person on foot, on a run, or even on a bike, provided you don’t pedal too fast. In this respect, the two models are practically on an equal footing.

When the DJI Neo is flown with a remote control, its maximum speed remains unchanged. But everything changes if you switch to FPV mode! You can then activate Manual mode, and unlock the Neo’s true top speed: 16 m/s (57.6 km/h), twice as fast as in standard mode.

In terms of wind resistance, the two models behave similarly. They are capable of handling level 4 winds (around 28 km/h), but will start to show difficulty in stabilizing if the wind gets stronger. In other words, these drones are best used in calm weather for best performance.

Follow-up of the subject

Both the DJI Neo and the HOVERAir X1 offer excellent performance and stability in flight. In subject-following mode, once they’ve locked on to their target, they’re both very effective. If one of the drones momentarily loses its target, simply fly past it again to find it and automatically resume tracking.

However, if we push the tests a little further, with complex situations such as ascents, descents, tight turns or obstacles such as trees or shrubs, the DJI Neo comes out slightly ahead. It manages to stay on target more effectively than the X1, stalling less often in these demanding conditions.

🥇AvantageDJI Neo for maximum speed in FPV mode and slightly better subject tracking.

DJI Neo vs HOVERAir X1: Battery and autonomy

	DJI Neo	HOVERAir X1
Batteries	1435 mAh	1050 mAh
Autonomy	18 minutes (17 minutes with propeller protection)	11.5 minutes
Recharge time	50 minutes direct charge 60 minutes for 3 batteries with charging station	55 minutes with direct charging 35 minutes with charging hub

The DJI Neo is better off in terms of autonomy, thanks to a 1435 mAh battery, compared with 1050 mAh for the HOVERAir X1. According to the manufacturer’s official data, the Neo offers a maximum flight time of 17 minutes, which can even rise to 18 minutes if you remove the upper propeller guards. For its part, the X1 is content with a claimed autonomy of 11.5 minutes.

As always, it’s important to point out that these figures are obtained under optimal conditions, often far from the realities of the field. In real-world conditions, the DJI Neo retains an advantage, with flight times generally observed between 13 and 14 minutes, compared to around 8 to 10 minutes for the X1.

While these times may be sufficient for a few automatic flight modes and capturing quick memories, they could prove a little short depending on your use, especially if you’re flying the drone manually. In this case, it would be wise to consider purchasing additional batteries for greater flexibility.

🥇 Advantage DJI Neo for its superior autonomy.

DJI Neo vs HOVERAir X1 : Photo and Video

	DJI Neo	HOVERAir X1
Sensor	1/2 inch	Not communicated by the manufacturer
Lens	14 mm equivalent format Aperture f/2.8 FOV 117.6	Equivalent format 19mm Aperture f/2.4 FOV 90
Stabilization	Single-axis mechanical gondola (tilt)	Single-axis mechanical gondola (tilt)
Max photo resolution	12 MP	12 MP
Max video resolution	4K up to 30 fps 1080p up to 60 fps 1080p (vertical) up to 60 fps	2.7K at 30 fps 1080p up to 60 fps
Max bit rate	75 Mb/s	32 Mbps
Photo format	JPEG	JPEG
Video format	MP4	MP4

Resolution and image quality

Both the DJI Neo and HOVERAir X1 are equipped with a single-axis nacelle, which stabilizes the image only on the tilt axis (up and down movements). This means that, in both cases, if the drone is a little unstable because of the wind, the image may tend to shake. In this respect, they’re on an equal footing.

In terms of image resolution, the DJI Neo has the edge in video. Both drones can capture 12 MP photos, but on the video side, the Neo can film in 4K at 30 frames per second, while the X1 is limited to 2.7K resolution at 30 frames per second.

While these drones are perfectly capable of capturing decent images to immortalize a few memories, they are not champions in this field. The DJI Neo, with its larger sensor and higher resolution, offers superior image quality. That said, its optics aren’t exceptional (which is understandable at this price) and don’t quite match DJI’s usual standards. However, it remains a step above the X1, offering a better dynamic range and more satisfactory overall rendering.

Photo and video features

Apart from autonomous flight modes (subject tracking and other automated pirouettes), the two drones don’t offer a multitude of functionalities. As far as photography is concerned, we find the classic single-shot and burst modes.

However, an interesting feature is available on both models: the ability torecord sound from your smartphone, with the ability to erase drone noise to isolate voice. The DJI Neo goes a step further by being compatible with the DJI Mic 2, for even more precise audio capture. An effective function in both cases.

For social networking enthusiasts, both the HOVERAir X1 and DJI Neo offer a vertical shooting mode, perfect for platforms like Instagram or TikTok, where this format is preferred.

However, the Neo is not to be outdone, and also has a small advantage. While all the X1’s photo and video settings are fully automatic, the Neo lets you access manual settings to fine-tune your shots and better control the final rendering. It also offers additional flight features, such as cruise control and more comprehensive tracking. To unlock these options, however, you’ll need access to the full version of the DJI Fly application, which requires investing in a compatible radio control (such as the DJI RC-N3) or opting for the corresponding pack.

🥇AvantageDJI Neo for best image quality.

DJI Neo vs HOVERAir X1: Packs and Prices

	DJI Neo	HOVERAir X1
Standard package	199€ See on Amazon	389€ See on Amazon
Fly More Pack (Neo) / Combo Pack (X1)	349€ See on Amazon	449€ See on Amazon
Motion Fly More Pack (Neo)	529€ See on Amazon

When it comes to price, there’s no contest: the DJI Neo wins hands down. Launched after the HOVERAir X1, DJI has struck hard with its unbeatable price. The Neo is available as a standard package, without radio control, at just €199, compared with €389 for the X1, i.e. almost half the price.

Even if you opt for the Neo’s Fly More pack, which includes an RC-N3 radio control unit, two additional batteries and a charging station, the whole package is priced at €349, even less than the X1’s standard pack.

The HOVERAir X1 also comes in a premium version, the Combo pack, which includes an additional battery and charging station. This pack is priced at €449.

Finally, the Neo is now available in a package specially designed for FPV immersion flight. The Motion Fly More pack includes the drone, DJI Goggles N3, and DJI RC Motion 3 remote control, all for a price of €529.

🥇 Advantage DJI Neo for its vastly more attractive price.

Conclusion DJI Neo vs HOVERAir X1: which to choose?

In short, the DJI Neo vs HOVERAir X1 duel is clearly in favor of the DJI Neo, which offers unbeatable value for money.

The HOVERAir X1 stands out for its ability to fold in half, making it ultra-compact and very convenient to carry – an undeniable asset for a drone designed to capture spontaneous moments. However, the DJI Neo does everything the X1 can do, but with better image quality. It also offers the possibility of being flown as a conventional drone, or even in FPV mode (although this requires a fairly substantial additional investment in hardware). This makes it a truly versatile 3-in-1 drone.

That said, the X1 manufacturer has not said its last word, with two new models, the X1 PRO and PROMAXmodels, announced with enhanced features and image resolutions. We’ll be keeping a close eye on these new models to see what they bring.

Choose the DJI Neo if…

… you’re looking for the best drone between the two. The Neo is a versatile selfie drone that can also be used as a classic and FPV drone. It offers superior image quality and, best of all, it’s almost half the price.

Choose HOVERAir X1 if…

… you want the easiest drone to carry. Thanks to its foldable design, the X1 slips easily into a pocket, which is a big advantage for a drone designed to be taken everywhere and capture photos and videos quickly.

Read the full tests of both drones in this DJI Neo vs HOVERAir X1 comparison:
➡️ DJI Neo, full test: selfie drone and more!
➡️ HOVERAir X1, full test: the 100% autonomous selfie drone!

💡 Also worth reading:
➡️ Check out our full analysis of the HOVERAir X1 PROMAX drone 🚀

🛠️ Using the DJI Neo?
Find all compatible spare parts and accessories here:
DJI Neo spare parts and accessories