Ok, so now we have the trailer and truck sorted and we have started planning the journey its time to look at other things we may need to take on the trip.
I have always wanted a drone but was always put off by 1) you end up with hours of video that you probably will never look at again 2) the cost of buying it and all the spare batteries etc. 3) flying the thing, my only experience of drones are those cheap kids drones that you have to constantly work at to keep in the air!
Although for this trip a drone would be great for capturing scenery and selfies of us in the scenery. So this then lead to hours of googling and reading about drones. Wow there is a lot of information out there and now so many options for buying a drone from sub $100 to over $5000.
Was thinking of the DJI Mini Pro 5 was an all round winner but then got talking to a friend who had one and a DJI Neo 2. He persuaded me to go with the DJI Neo 2 as it was much more versatile for doing the stuff we would want to do, also most things can be done with just a phone and you only need the controller for more advanced flights.
DJI Neo 2 – Fly Your Way – DJI Canada
The DJI Neo 2, paired with the RC-N3 controller, is an impressive budget-friendly drone that offers enhanced features, improved camera capabilities, and advanced obstacle avoidance, making it ideal for both beginners and casual users.
The DJI Neo 2 is an upgraded version of the original Neo drone, designed for creators and hobbyists. It features a compact design, weighing just 151 grams, and is equipped with a 12 MP camera capable of recording 4K video at 60 fps and 100 fps in slow motion. The drone is particularly noted for its omnidirectional obstacle avoidance system, which combines LiDAR and vision sensors to enhance safety during flight.
Key Features
- Improved Camera and Gimbal: The Neo 2 boasts a new 2-axis gimbal that provides better stabilization, resulting in smoother video footage without relying solely on digital stabilization. This is a significant upgrade from its predecessor.
- Obstacle Avoidance: One of the standout features of the Neo 2 is its LiDAR obstacle detection system, which helps prevent crashes by sensing obstacles in all directions. This makes it safer to fly, especially for beginners.
- User-Friendly Controls: The drone can be operated using various methods, including gesture control, voice commands, and traditional remote control with the RC-N3. The RC-N3 controller allows for a more traditional flying experience, while the drone can also be flown without a controller using a smartphone.
- Flight Modes and Smart Features: The Neo 2 includes several automated flight modes, such as Follow Me and Selfie Mode, which are designed to capture dynamic shots effortlessly. A small display on the drone indicates the current flight mode, enhancing usability.
- Battery Life: The drone offers a flight time of up to 19 minutes per battery, which is competitive for its class. The Fly More Combo package includes additional batteries for extended flying sessions.
Performance and Usability
The DJI Neo 2 is praised for its ease of use, making it suitable for beginners and casual users. The combination of its lightweight design, advanced features, and intuitive controls allows users to capture high-quality footage without extensive flying experience. The drone’s ability to follow subjects and avoid obstacles makes it particularly appealing for outdoor activities and vlogging.
Conclusion
Overall, the DJI Neo 2 with the RC-N3 controller is a compelling option for those looking to enter the world of drone flying without breaking the bank. Its combination of advanced features, improved camera capabilities, and user-friendly design makes it a standout choice in the budget drone market. Whether you’re capturing moments during outdoor adventures or creating content for social media, the Neo 2 is equipped to deliver impressive results.
About the Author
