Those who follow us on Instagram already know, the DJI Flip is actually the first drone I’ve ever tested. It was just sitting there on a desk at our lovely Mac4Ever office, and after a quick chat with Didier, it was decided that I’d take this drone for a spin! In addition to the video review shared in this article, which highlights my main thoughts, I’m also offering a written version here with some additional details.
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Introducing the DJI Flip
DJI certainly raised a few eyebrows with the release of the DJI Flip, a departure from their usual drone lineups. This drone shakes things up with its design and usability among compact drones. Weighing just 249 grams, it avoids stringent regulations in many countries, including France. So, you won’t need any special training to operate it.
The real advantage, however, lies in its foldable design with integrated propeller guards, a first for a drone of this category. This feature not only enhances safety during flight but also allows for hand launches and landings, making it ideal for indoor use and tight spaces.
A Thoughtfully Designed, Convenient Format
Unlike other DJI models, the Flip does away with traditional folding arms for a compact design where the propellers fold under the chassis. When folded, it fits into a small bag and is highly portable. This versatility is particularly appreciated by content creators, vloggers, and travel enthusiasts who need a drone that’s always ready for action. Despite its small size, it doesn’t compromise on durability, featuring a polycarbonate structure reinforced with carbon fiber elements to minimize weight while ensuring resistance to impacts. And I can confirm, as a first-time drone user, I bumped into a few walls, and the drone held up well, a testament to its robustness.
Easy to Handle, Even for Beginners
The DJI Flip caters to a broad audience, including those who have never flown a drone before, like myself. It can be controlled with a standard remote, a smartphone, or even voice commands. The latter is particularly handy for vloggers who want to capture spontaneous shots without fiddling with a controller. DJI has also integrated automated flight modes, making dynamic shooting straightforward. Just a click is needed to activate movements like the Rocket, Circle, or Helix, adding a cinematic touch to videos. I tried a few of these, and while they felt a bit gimmicky to me, they are functional as long as you have clear space around you.
High-Quality Sensor for Detailed Images
The DJI Flip is equipped with a 1/1.3 inch 48-megapixel CMOS sensor, similar to that of the Mini 4 Pro. It captures photos in JPEG and RAW, offering flexibility in post-processing. For video, it records in 4K up to 60 frames per second and even offers a slow-motion mode in 4K at 100 frames per second. Its f/1.7 aperture allows for bright image capture, even in low light, which I experienced firsthand in some late-day shots. The inclusion of D-Log M for 10-bit colors provides an extended dynamic range, ideal for videographers looking to color grade their footage in post-production.
Impressive Stabilization
DJI has incorporated three-axis mechanical stabilization in the Flip, ensuring smooth footage even on the move. Yes, it’s very light, and it might be a bit less stable in the wind, but that’s forgivable for a drone in this category. Compared to more robust models like the Air 3S, it’s clear that compactness comes at the expense of stability in challenging conditions.
Effective Tracking Mode for Content Creators
One of the highlights of the DJI Flip is its intelligent tracking mode, which automatically keeps a subject in frame. Thanks to ActiveTrack 4.0, Spotlight 2.0, and Point of Interest 3.0, it can follow a moving person, even in relatively complex urban environments. This feature is ideal for athletes, vloggers, and influencers who want to capture dynamic sequences without a camera operator. However, be cautious in cluttered areas as it might not perform well, and rightly so, considering it lacks lateral and rear sensors which could pose a problem.
Tailored Control for Every User
The DJI Flip can be controlled through three different means: via a smartphone and the DJI Fly app, with the RC-N3 remote, or through the RC 2 with a built-in screen. While the basic remote suffices for most users, the RC 2 greatly enhances the experience with its bright 700 nit and 5.5-inch screen. This option also allows for better responsiveness and more precise control.
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DJI also offers a Fly More pack with three batteries, a multi-charger, and a carry bag for those who demand more, or wish to enjoy longer flight sessions.
Decent Battery Life
The DJI Flip offers a theoretical battery life of 31 minutes per battery. In real-world conditions, I managed 30 minutes, but this will of course depend on the weather. Fortunately, the charger included in the Fly More pack allows for quick recharging of multiple batteries at once, thus minimizing downtime during extended flight sessions. However, the 2GB of internal storage is rather limited, forcing users to invest in a microSD card to record high-definition videos. On this note, I recommend a fast microSD card; I encountered several error messages when recording 4K video at 60fps with slower cards.
Compromises on Obstacle Avoidance
Unlike DJI’s higher-end models, the Flip lacks omnidirectional obstacle avoidance. It only has front sensors and an infrared sensor underneath, allowing it to detect some obstacles but not automatically maneuver around them. For experienced pilots, this isn’t much of an issue, but for a beginner, it means extra vigilance is necessary, especially in obstacle-dense environments.
In fact, this is probably the only complaint I have about the product, this lack of sensors isn’t very reassuring when you’re starting out, and I did crash into several trees and walls because of it, not being quite agile during my initial flights. Fortunately, the drone is sturdy, and its propellers are protected, which clearly limits the risks. We understand that this limitation in the number of sensors is obviously a cost-saving measure, given that this drone is quite affordably priced.
During one of my flight sessions, the drone took a bit of water after a fall caused by an undetected branch, which made the sensors less effective for a few hours. Nothing too serious, though, as with any such device, the best thing to do is just let it dry out peacefully if that happens. It later worked without any issues.
Designed for Social Media
As you can gather, DJI designed the Flip with content creators in mind, optimizing features for TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts. It supports 2.7K vertical format, though this is achieved through cropping rather than pivoting the camera. Another smart feature is the ability to record audio via the smartphone in sync with the video, a rare capability in a drone.
And For My Personal Use?
As you can tell, this is my very first time testing a drone. The functions mentioned above are intriguing, but personally, I was more captivated by the “exploration” aspect. I live in an area full of beautiful spots, and rediscovering them with a drone is truly amazing. Though I have no doubt that, beyond the initial novelty, one does not always have the time to go out with a drone.
Another important aspect besides fun is your bravery. Operating a drone, especially as a beginner, takes courage. Am I allowed to fly here? Will I get arrested and end up in jail for flying over a forbidden park? And what if I make a piloting error that causes me to lose the drone forever, just because I blinked at the wrong moment? From my first impressions, flying a drone is like buying bitcoin. To enjoy it, you must be prepared to lose everything you’ve invested. If you’re nervous, you might not dare to venture here and there, and you won’t get those beautiful shots. Worse, you’ll probably be afraid to take it out most of the time. And that would be a shame!
For me, this test has solidified my desire to own a drone personally. I’m still deciding between this DJI Flip and a DJI Mini 4 Pro, but no doubt, by 2025 I hope to take one everywhere on my most beautiful hikes!
Excellent Value for Money
One of the DJI Flip’s biggest selling points is its competitive price. Starting at €439 for the base version with RC-N3, it’s positioned between the DJI Neo (€199) and the Mini 4 Pro (€759). With the RC 2, the price goes up to €639, and the Fly More Combo costs €779. We definitely recommend this pack if you can afford it; the remote control is very handy, especially for content creators who want to keep their iPhone in hand. Regardless, for a drone offering such versatility and advanced features, it’s an excellent compromise.
Should You Buy the DJI Flip?
The DJI Flip excels in several areas. It combines ease of use, enhanced safety, and high-quality imagery while remaining compact and affordable. It’s perfect for beginners and content creators, with automated modes that simplify shooting. However, the absence of side sensors makes it less suitable for challenging conditions. Those looking for more safety against obstacles and superior stabilization might lean towards a Mini 4 Pro. But for a light, versatile, and fun drone, the DJI Flip is an unbeatable option at this price. And clearly, I loved testing it! Now I just have to beg DJI to let me keep it a bit longer.