FIMI X8 Pro, full review: obstacle detection at last!

The FIMI X8 Pro is the successor to the X8 SE series, and the good news is that the manufacturer is finally offering us a drone with obstacle detection. What else is new in this model? What is it worth? And most importantly, do you have to buy it? All the answers in this article!

FIMI X8 Pro: design

Dimensions (folded) (L x W x H)	204 x 106 x 72.6 mm
Weight	780g (with standard battery) 830g (with Plus battery)

The FIMI X8 Pro retains the design model of its predecessors. The manufacturer has not made any major changes in this respect, and this new model has a similar look to its predecessors. The folding arms and glossy white color are characteristic of the brand.

With dimensions of 204 x 106 x 72.6 mm when its arms are folded, the drone remains relatively compact and easy to store in a backpack. Its weight is 780g with the standard battery, rising to 830g if you opt for the higher-capacity Intelligent Flight Battery Plus. But we’re still under 900 grams, so there’s no change to report as far as regulations are concerned.

Finally, as on the FIMI X8 SE 2022 V2, we find the famous accessory port on the underside of the drone, which will enable us to add an optional auxiliary device offered by the manufacturer, such as a release system or megaphone.

FIMI X8 Pro: radio controls

Compatible radio controls	Standard remote control FIMI TX10A remote control (with display)
Video transmission system	RokLink
Maximum transmission distance	15 km

The radio control supplied as standard with the FIMI X8 Pro is practical and ergonomic. It features two handles on the sides and a tray in the center where you can place your smartphone or tablet. The latter features a well-thought-out sliding system that can be stretched to accommodate appliances of all sizes.

Like its rival DJI, FIMI also offers an optional remote control with integrated display. This radio control, the FIMI TX10A, features a large 5.5″ touchscreen with 1080p resolution and 1000 nits brightness. It offers added convenience, so you don’t have to waste time connecting your smartphone, and preserves its battery.

The FIMI X8 Pro uses the manufacturer’s RokLink video transmission system. Now in version 4.0, it offers a range of up to 15 km (previously 10 km), regardless of the radio control selected.

FIMI X8 Pro: battery and autonomy

	Intelligent Flight Battery	Intelligent Flight Battery Plus
Type	Li-Po 4S	Li-Po 4S
Capacity	3800 mAh	5000 mAh
Autonomy	40 minutes	47 minutes

The FIMI X8 Pro comes with a 3800mAh Li-Po battery called the Intelligent Flight Battery. According to the manufacturer’s data, this battery can offer a flight time of up to 40 minutes. As a reminder, the FIMI X8 SE 2022 can stay in the air for up to 35 minutes, so the new model saves 5 minutes.

And if you want more, you can opt for the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus, sold separately. With a capacity of 5000mAh, it can achieve a theoretical maximum flight time of 47 minutes.

FIMI X8 Pro: in-flight performance and features

Maximum speed	18 m/s
Maximum ascent speed	5 m/s
Maximum descent speed	4 m/s
Obstacle sensors	Three-way detection system (forward, backward, downward)

Flight behaviour

The FIMI X8 Pro boasts similar flight performance to its predecessor, the FIMI X8 SE 2022. It maintains the same maximum speed of 18 m/s (or 65 km/h), and as with its predecessor, FIMI reports that it is rain- and snow-resistant.

In terms of handling, the drone is easy to fly: the controls are highly responsive, and all operations are extremely fluid. According to available tests and user feedback, the drone maintains remarkable stability in moderate wind conditions, including light rain.

Obstacle detection system

This is THE big improvement of this model: FIMI finally delivers a drone equipped with obstacle sensors. Hallelujah.

In this case, it’s a tri-directional detection system, designed to spot any obstacle in your path, whether forwards , backwards or downwards, from a minimum distance of 15 meters. This device offers enhanced safety by identifying potential obstructions in all directions, reinforcing the drone’s protection against collisions during flight.

Other smart features

One of the strengths of the FIMI X8 Pro is that it integrates a panoply of flight modes and automatic shooting:

• route planning: define waypoints and your drone will fly the desired route.
• intelligent tracking mode: this lets you define a target (usually you) that the drone will follow in all directions and keep in the center of the image.
• circular flight: the drone flies around a predefined target.
• panoramas: for stunning wide-angle shots. 3 modes available: 180° horizontal, 180° vertical, and 3×3 square format.

All these features make the FIMI X8 Pro exceptionally versatile , offering a wide range of options for creative and innovative shooting. Whether you want to capture majestic landscapes, make dynamic videos, or explore unique perspectives, this drone is a powerful tool for bringing your artistic vision to life.

However, available feedback and analyses indicate that they are generally not as efficient as those offered by DJI. Although route planning and subject tracking work well, they are not as precise and efficient as those you can get with a DJI Mini 4 Pro or DJI Air 3.

FIMI X8 Pro: camera and image quality

Sensor	1/1.3-inch 48 MP CMOS
Lens	24 mm equivalent Aperture f/1.7 85° FOV
Video resolution	4K up to 30 fps
ISO range	100 à 6400
Maximum bit rate	100 Mbps
Photo format	JPG DNG
Video format	MP4(H.265)
Digital Zoom	6x

The FIMI X8 Pro has the advantage of a new, slightly larger sensor than its predecessors. While the X8 SE 2022 is equipped with a 1/2-inch sensor, the X8 Pro features a 1/1.3-inch sensor, the same size as that found on a drone like the DJI Mini 4 Pro.

On the other hand, no changes have been made to video resolution: the X8 Pro retains a maximum definition of 4K at up to 30 frames per second. Although 4K quality is generally more than sufficient for most uses, it’s a shame that FIMI doesn’t offer slightly higher frame rates.

And what about image quality? The FIMI X8 Pro acquits itself well, offering generally satisfactory image rendering, particularly in daylight and in optimal lighting conditions. To give you a benchmark, photo and video quality is comparable to that of a DJI Mini 2.

The images captured are therefore largely usable, but DJI now offers even better image quality, while FIMI remains a notch below. Although images benefit from HDR processing to accentuate details in shadows and highlights, dynamic range is not exceptional, and we’re left a little disappointed, especially when compared to current market standards.

FIMI X8 Pro: the price

Standard package	$599
Standard Pack + Micro SD 64GB	$609
Standard Pack + Micro SD 128GB	$619
Standard pack + additional battery	$679
Standard pack + TX10A remote control	$699

The FIMI X8 Pro is available from the FIMI online store from $599 for the basic package, or around €550. At this price, you’ll get the drone with the standard remote control (without screen), a charger, data transmission cables, and a protective cover for the nacelle.

It’s also possible to opt for one of the packs including an additional accessory, ranging from the pack with 64GB memory card ($609) to the one including the famous TX10A remote control with its integrated screen ($699, or around €640).

Note that the TX10A remote control is also available on its own for $199.

FIMI X8 Pro conclusion: should you buy it?

In short, the FIMI X8 Pro is based on the FIMI X8 SE 2022, with a few improvements. While most of them are minor (5 minutes more autonomy, slightly larger sensor, extended range), the new tri-directional obstacle detection system is the major evolution, which will delight all pilots concerned about the physical integrity of their precious drone.

Given its size, the FIMI X8 Pro is a direct competitor to the DJI Air series. Although it incorporates a number of advanced features, such as subject tracking and route planning, the camera’s image quality and these functions do not rival those of its competitor. However, the advantage of the X8 Pro lies in its much more affordable price, offering an attractive option for the budget-conscious.

Buy it if…

… you’re looking for a feature-packed drone at an affordable price. With its diverse flying capabilities, obstacle detection, impressive battery life and new 1/1.3″ camera, the FIMI X8 Pro offers excellent value for money.

Don’t buy it if…

… you’re looking for the crème de la crème, whether in terms of image quality or in-flight functionality. At present, FIMI is not yet on a par with its rival DJI. If your budget allows, it’s best to opt for one of the latest Mini or Air series drones for optimum results.

See our other full reviews of FIMI drones :
➡️ FIMI X8 SE 2022: our complete test
➡️ FIMI X8 Mini: full review