(Credit: DJI)
DJI's newest drone, the Mini 2 4K, isn't that new at all. The $299 flyer has all of the same specs and features as the Mini 2 from 2020, but costs less than the original, which debuted at $449.
Though there's nothing new, the Mini 2 4K looks like a solid entry-level option for aspiring drone pilots who want to get started with aerial video and photography. Its spec list is better than you'd expect for the price: the 4K camera records at a healthy 100Mbps bit rate and supports stills in both 8-bit JPG and 12-bit DNG format, and is stabilized with on a three-axis gimbal, a feature that makes for smooth, steady footage even when making turns and changing altitude during a shot.
Like others in the series, the Mini 2 4K weighs just 249 grams, so there's no need for recreational pilots to register it with the FAA before flying; licensed pilots will still need to register the drone, however. Battery life is a healthy 31 minutes per charge too. Obstacle avoidance is not included on this model, but you do get GPS stabilization, automated return-to-home, and a Find My Drone feature. You'll need to step up to the Mini 4 Pro ($759) to enjoy automatic collision avoidance, HDR video, and other premium features.
Entry-level pilots are more likely to compare the Mini 2 4K against the $279 Mini 2 SE. The Mini 2 SE uses the same flight hardware and a very similar camera, but limits recording to 2.7K resolution at a lower quality 40Mbps compression rate, and omits digital zoom. Given the meager price difference, the 4K looks like a better buy if you care about video quality.
Given the similarities, we'll refer you to the our Mini 2 review from 2020 for analysis of the camera quality and flight experience. The Mini 2 4K is available exclusively through DJI's Amazon storefront, so you won't find it at other retailers.