The consumer drone market is largely dominated by DJI, and its Mini series has become the benchmark for both beginner pilots and mobile content creators. Weighing in at a featherweight 250 grams, these drones avoid many regulatory constraints. In 2025, two flagship models are still vying for attention: the affordable and high-performing DJI Mini 3 , and the feature-rich and safety-focused DJI Mini 4 Pro . So, which one should you choose? This guide will help you make a more informed decision.
DJI Mini 3: The champion of value for money
Launched in late 2022, the DJI Mini 3 remains an extremely relevant option in 2025. It is primarily aimed at beginners and users looking for excellent image quality without needing the very latest technologies. It should not be confused with the Mini 3 Pro, as the “classic” Mini 3 omits certain obstacle sensors to offer a more attractive price.
Who is the DJI Mini 3 designed for?
- For beginners: Its ease of use and affordable price make it an ideal entry point into the world of drones.
- Creators for social media: Its sensor allows a true vertical mode, perfect for creating content for TikTok or Instagram Reels without loss of quality.
- For budget-conscious travelers: It offers spectacular 4K image quality in an ultra-compact format, without breaking the bank.
Its strengths are clear: very clean 4K/30fps image quality , solid battery life, and surprisingly easy handling. Its main drawback is the lack of lateral and upward obstacle detection, which requires more careful piloting.
DJI Mini 4 Pro
Le choix léger (≤ 249 g) pour des plans aériens spectaculaires et une sécurité renforcée.
- Vidéo 4K fluide jusqu’à 100 fps
- Détection d’obstacles omnidirectionnelle + ActiveTrack 360°
- Transmission O4, portée et stabilité améliorées
- Jusqu’à ~45 min d’autonomie avec batterie Plus*
*L’autonomie dépend des conditions de vol. Certains liens peuvent être affiliés.
DJI Mini 4 Pro: Professional technology in a pocket-sized format
The DJI Mini 4 Pro, released in late 2023, represents a major evolution. It retains everything that made the range successful and adds features previously found only on larger, more expensive drones. It is aimed at a more demanding audience for whom safety and creative flexibility are priorities.
The most significant difference is the integration of omnidirectional (360-degree) obstacle detection . The drone sees and avoids obstacles in all directions, making flight much safer, especially when using intelligent follow modes.
Key improvements of the DJI Mini 4 Pro:
- Maximum safety: 360° obstacle detection and the APAS 5.0 system allow collisions to be avoided very effectively.
- Superior video quality: It shoots in 4K at up to 60fps (and even 100fps for smooth slow motion) and offers the 10-bit D-Log M color profile. This flat profile provides immense flexibility in post-production for color grading.
- Advanced intelligent functions: ActiveTrack 360° enables far more sophisticated and creative subject tracking than on the Mini 3. The addition of functions like Waypoint (automated flight plan) opens up new possibilities.
- Improved video transmission: The OcuSync 4 (O4) system offers a more stable connection and increased range compared to the OcuSync 2 (O2) of the Mini 3.
Decision table: Mini 3 vs Mini 4 Pro
| Criterion | DJI Mini 3 Pro | DJI Mini 4 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor & camera | 1/1.3″ CMOS 48 MP, 4K up to 60 fps | Same 48 MP sensor, HDR 4K 60 fps + slow-motion 4K 100 fps |
| Obstacles / Safety | Three-way detection (front/back/down) | Omnidirectional (360°) detection |
| Video transmission | O3 — 1080p up to 12 km | O4 — 1080p up to 20 km |
| Flight autonomy | ~34 min (47 min with Plus battery, > 250 g) | ~34 min (45 min with Plus battery, > 250 g) |
| Smart features | Basic modes + vertical photo | ActiveTrack 360°, Spotlight, POI, enhanced vertical photo |
| Low light performance | Correct | Optimized thanks to improved image processing |
| Price | More affordable (entry/mid-range) | More expensive (high-end Mini) |
| To consider | Excellent economical and lightweight option | Maximum security and more advanced video |
👉 Quick verdict
- Mini 4 Pro : ideal if you want maximum security, the best video and advanced smart features.
- Mini 3 Pro : perfect if you’re looking for a compact, high-performance and more affordable drone.
In summary, here are the criteria that should guide your choice:
- Safety: Do you often fly in complex environments (forest, city) or are you anxious by nature? The Mini 4 Pro and its omnidirectional detection are essential.
- Professional video: Do you do color grading and need the best possible image quality with smooth slow motion? The Mini 4 Pro with its D-Log M profile and 4K/60fps is the only choice.
- Budget: Is your budget your number one criterion? The DJI Mini 3 offers 90% of the experience for a significantly lower price and remains a fantastic investment.
- Simplicity: Just want to take beautiful holiday pictures for social media without any fuss? The DJI Mini 3 is more than enough, and its native vertical mode is a major plus.
Conclusion: Which one to buy in 2025?
In 2025, the choice between the DJI Mini 3 and the Mini 4 Pro is less a question of “good” or “bad” drone than a question of pilot profile.
Buy the DJI Mini 3 if you’re a beginner, on a budget, or if you mainly use it for simple photos and videos for fun and social media. It’s a reliable, high-performing camera that offers excellent value for money.
Choose the DJI Mini 4 Pro if safety is your top priority, if you’re a serious content creator who needs flexibility in post-production, or if you simply want the best technology available in this form factor. The extra investment is fully justified by the peace of mind and creative possibilities it unlocks.
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