DJI continues to solidify its dominance in the camera-equipped drone market with the introduction of the Mavic 4 Pro, an upgrade poised to attract serious aerial filmmakers. Featuring a cutting-edge gimbal system, the Mavic 4 Pro is designed to elevate the capabilities of both amateur and professional content creators.
The Mavic 4 Pro introduces the innovative “Infinity Gimbal,” a spherical design that allows for versatile shooting angles—forward, downward, sideways, and even upward—enabling a wider range of creative aerial photography and videography. The drone boasts impressive camera capabilities, including a main camera equipped with a 4/3-size CMOS sensor that offers 6K video resolution at 60 frames per second and still photography at 100 megapixels in DNG raw format.
Notably, this model features significantly improved zoom functionality, providing three cameras with varying focal lengths: a medium telephoto at 70mm and a longer telephoto at 168mm. The clarity and quality of footage from these zoom lenses mark a considerable upgrade from the previous Mavic 3 Pro, which faced criticism for lower-quality zoom options.
The pricing for the Mavic 4 Pro is substantial, starting at £1,879 in the UK (approximately $2,499) for the base model, and escalating to £3,209 (around $4,268) for the Fly More Creator Combo, which includes additional batteries and DJI’s new RC Pro 2 controller. Currently, there is no announced launch date for the US market, as DJI is navigating regulatory and market conditions.
The Mavic 4 Pro is aimed primarily at professionals and dedicated enthusiasts rather than casual users. With its array of intelligent flight modes and robust obstacle avoidance systems, even beginners can achieve impressive results with relative ease. The upgraded RC Pro 2 controller, featuring a bright 7-inch display, enhances the flying experience, making it easier for users to monitor footage directly without needing a smartphone.
Flight time claims suggest up to 51 minutes from a fully charged battery, although practical use may yield closer to 30 minutes depending on conditions. Furthermore, its weight of 1,063 grams mandates FAA registration for US fliers, emphasizing the need for compliance with local drone regulations.
The Mavic 4 Pro is a compelling investment for video professionals seeking to enhance their work with breathtaking aerial shots. Despite its premium price tag, the advancements in camera technology and gimbal design position it as an essential tool for those in the filmmaking industry, reaffirming DJI’s legacy in the drone market while catering to the evolving needs of content creators.