Introducing the DJI Air 2S – a significant upgrade from many other drones in DJI’s lineup. Here are 10 compelling reasons why you might consider getting or upgrading to this drone, based on my experience testing it in various scenarios over the past few weeks. Let’s dive in and explore the features and improvements that make the DJI Air 2S a standout choice for drone enthusiasts.
One-Inch Sensor Size
The standout feature of the DJI Air 2S is its one-inch sensor, a feature typically reserved for pro-level cameras. This sensor delivers higher-quality footage, even in low-light conditions. Now, this isn’t a Hasselblad one-inch sensor, this is a DJI one-inch sensor, so there might be a little bit of a difference between the two. But one of the massive upgrades with this one-inch sensor is that it does shoot 5.4k resolution for video creators. Now, this camera has a F2.8 and that F2.8 is not adjustable. So it’s not like the 2 pro where you can go to an F11. This one is just fixed 2.8 aperture. And for the field of view, you’re getting a 22-millimeter equivalent. So it’s an 88-degree field of view and the sensor is a 20-megapixel sensor. This is a CMOS 20-megapixel sensor, So it’s going to be able to give you some better-looking footage and it’s going to give you better noise performance as well. I’ve been in a bunch of different situations, whether it’s morning, middle of the day, evening as well as in some darker situations when the sun has just gone down over the horizon, and all the footage that I’ve been able to get out of this camera looks really good. Having a one inch sensor definitely gives this drone a huge advantage across the entire lineup of DJI’s drones.
Obstacle Avoidance
The DJI Air 2S features an enhanced obstacle sensing system with multiple sensors positioned strategically for comprehensive coverage. With sensors located on the front, back, top, and bottom, the drone offers improved detection capabilities, enhancing its ability to detect obstacles in its path. While it lacks side-to-side sensors. However, when you’re out flying it will detect objects in the way and it will fly up and over them or it will just stop depending on how you have your setting set up.
10-Bit Footage
The DJI Air 2S offers 10-bit footage, a significant advantage for users interested in post-processing their footage. With 10-bit recording, you have access to more data for color grading and adjusting elements in post-production. It records in H.265 and it has a video bit rate of 150 megabytes per second. Which makes it higher than the other drones in DJI’s lineup. You’re getting more information out of this drone which allows you to do more color grading in post and it’s just gonna make your footage look better overall.
The Drone Size
This drone is the exact same size as the original Air 2. When you put them side-by-side the only difference is the sensors and the camera. You can use the same battery as you used on the Air 2 and the only other difference that I’ve noticed is that the propellers have the orange on it versus the gray. Overall, this kit with the drone, a few batteries, the controller, and the ND filters packs up super small into this little case. It’s a much smaller footprint than the pro 2, so it’s easier to travel with and take anywhere.
5.4K Resolution
The DJI Air 2S shares the same dimensions as the original Air 2, with the only noticeable differences being the upgraded sensors and camera. You can interchangeably use the same batteries as the Air 2, and the propellers now feature an orange accent instead of gray. Overall, when comparing them side by side, they appear nearly identical. With the drone, a few batteries, the controller, and ND filters neatly packed into a compact case, the entire kit boasts a remarkably small footprint. This makes it incredibly convenient for travel and ensures you can take it with you wherever you go.
Frame Rates
The DJI Air 2S offers a wide range of frame rate options to suit different shooting scenarios. When recording in 5.4K resolution, you can choose from frame rates of 24, 25, or 30 frames per second (fps). While 5.4K doesn’t support slow-motion, switching to 4K allows you to capture footage at up to 60 fps, providing the flexibility to create smooth slow-motion sequences. Additionally, in 1080P resolution, you can achieve even higher frame rates of up to 120 fps.
However, it’s worth noting that there are some limitations when shooting in 4K at 60fps. The camera introduces a noticeable crop factor, which wasn’t present in the original Air model. This means that the field of view becomes narrower when shooting at this frame rate and resolution. For users who prefer to maintain a wider field of view, this crop factor may pose a limitation when shooting high-frame-rate footage.
Zoom Options
With the DJI Air 2S, you have greater flexibility for zooming compared to the original Air 2. However, it’s important to note that zooming in inevitably results in a loss of image resolution. While this may not be noticeable in many social media contexts where content is often viewed on smaller screens, it becomes more apparent on larger displays.
In 5.4K mode, zooming is not available. But when you switch to 4K, you can zoom in at two times, three times, or four times magnification. It’s worth mentioning that at higher zoom levels, such as three times or four times, there is a noticeable decrease in image resolution, particularly when viewing the footage on larger screens.
Master Shots
Master Shots is a feature on this drone that essentially takes over the filming and editing process for you. It works by analyzing the location or situation and then selecting a series of shots that it deems best suited for the context. These shots are captured within a few minutes, after which the drone automatically edits them into a cohesive video.
If you’re looking to capture footage without having to worry about the technicalities of filming and editing, Master Shots is your go-to option. Simply activate the feature, select the area or subject you want to capture by drawing on the screen, hit the start button, and then sit back as the drone takes care of everything, from filming to editing, leaving you with a professionally edited video without any effort on your part.
Active Track
The ActiveTrack feature on this drone is among the best on DJI drones. It effectively locks onto the subject and maintains that lock throughout the filming process. This makes it particularly useful for scenarios like mountain biking or trail running, where you need the drone to track your movements reliably without losing focus.
During my testing, I experimented with ActiveTrack in various situations, including using it in sport mode to track jeeps traversing the desert. I was amazed at how well it performed, smoothly following the subjects and even executing dynamic maneuvers while keeping them centered in the frame.
However, it’s important to note that the drone’s sensors only detect obstacles in four directions: up, down, forward, and backward. This means that if you’re moving sideways, the drone won’t sense objects in its path. Therefore, when using ActiveTrack for maneuvers like orbiting, it’s essential to remain vigilant and watch out for obstacles to avoid any potential accidents.
Better Transmission
Another standout feature is the enhanced transmission system on the drone itself. While the original Air 2 boasted two antennas for a reliable signal, the Air 2S takes it up a notch with four antennas. This ensures a consistently clear signal between the drone and the controller, regardless of the flying conditions.
During my test flights, I experienced zero dropouts in the video transmission signal. The image remained crystal clear no matter where the drone was or what situation I was in. With this improved transmission system, you can rest assured that you won’t encounter any interruptions or signal losses during your flights.
