★★★★★☆☆

DJI Neo Mini Drone: 4K Camera, Palm Takeoff & Follow Me

Category: Aerial Photography and Videography

Published: April 11, 2025

Key Features

4K UHD camera for high-quality video and photos
Palm Takeoff & Landing capability for easy operation
Subject Tracking feature to follow objects during flight
QuickShots modes for capturing professional footage quickly
Built-in 2-way charging hub for easy battery management
Level-4 wind resistance stabilization technology
54-minute flying time with three batteries included
Lightweight at just 135g, making it easy to carry
Compliant with FAA regulations and does not require Remote ID

Overview and First Impressions

The DJI Neo Three-Battery Combo is a compact, lightweight drone that combines convenience with advanced features. At just 135g, it's one of the lightest drones on the market, making it easy to carry around in your backpack or pocket. The Palm Takeoff & Landing feature allows for simple takeoffs and landings, which is perfect for beginners and those who don't want to deal with complex controls.

Design and Build Quality

The DJI Neo has a sleek, compact design that makes it easy to store and transport. The build quality is excellent; the materials are durable and well-assembled. The camera and gimbal are well-integrated, ensuring smooth operation even during windy conditions. However, the lack of any physical controls (other than the button for takeoff/land) might be a drawback for users who prefer traditional RC controls.

Setup and Ease of Use

The setup process is straightforward, thanks to the included mobile app which guides you through the initial configuration. The camera mode selection and flight settings can be easily adjusted directly from your phone or tablet. However, the lack of physical controls means that for more complex maneuvers, users might need to rely on the mobile app, which could be a limitation for less tech-savvy individuals.

Flight Performance

The DJI Neo's flight performance is exceptional, especially considering its lightweight design. The camera follows subjects with excellent precision, capturing crisp and detailed video. The stabilization technology ensures that even during windy conditions, the footage remains smooth and clear. The 54-minute flying time on a single charge is impressive, although it could be extended further with proper battery management.

Battery Life

The DJI Neo comes with three batteries, providing an impressive total of 162 minutes of flight time (with proper battery management). However, the included charger only provides power to one battery at a time, which can be cumbersome when you're out and about. The quick-charging hub is useful for on-the-go charging, but it's still not as convenient as having all batteries charged simultaneously.

Camera and Imaging

The camera in the DJI Neo is one of its standout features, offering 4K UHD resolution with 12MP effective stills. The stabilization technology ensures that even during fast movements or windy conditions, the footage remains sharp and clear. The quick-shots modes are great for capturing professional-looking videos quickly without complex setups.

Features and Technology

The DJI Neo is packed with advanced features, including Palm Takeoff & Landing, Subject Tracking, and QuickShots. The ability to control the drone via voice commands or mobile app makes it accessible to a wide range of users, from beginners to professionals. However, some users might find the lack of physical controls limiting for more advanced maneuvers.

Noise Level

The DJI Neo is surprisingly quiet during flight, which is crucial for photography and videography where noise can be distracting. The minimal noise level allows for clearer audio capture in videos.

Legal and Practical Considerations

The DJI Neo complies with FAA regulations, making it legal to fly in most areas without requiring Remote ID registration. However, users should always check local laws and regulations before flying, especially in urban areas or near airports. The drone's small size and portability make it ideal for outdoor exploration and travel.

Pros and Cons Summary

Pros:

Lightweight and compact design
Palm Takeoff & Landing capability
Subject Tracking and QuickShots features
High-quality 4K UHD camera
Built-in 2-way charging hub
Excellent stabilization technology

Cons:

Lack of physical controls for more advanced maneuvers
Cumbersome battery management with the included charger
Noise level might be too low for some users (though this is generally a positive)

Final Verdict and Recommendation.

The DJI Neo Three-Battery Combo is an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced drone pilots who are looking for a compact, lightweight drone with advanced features. Its high-quality camera, Palm Takeoff & Landing capability, and subject tracking make it ideal for capturing professional-looking videos and photos. However, the lack of physical controls might be a drawback for users who prefer traditional RC controls. Overall, the DJI Neo is a great value for its performance and features, making it a strong contender in the drone market.

Aerial Photography and Videography

Travel and Portability