DJI has just unveiled its newest model in the Mini range, the DJI Mini 5 Pro. Two years after the release of the DJI Mini 4 Pro, the question on everyone’s mind is simple: is it worth upgrading to the new model or is the Mini 4 Pro still a good choice in 2025?
In this article, we will compare the two models in detail, but above all with a practical look: what really changes when you fly, what is marketing, and what makes the difference in your daily use.
DJI Mini 5 Pro vs DJI Mini 4 Pro: A compact and practical form factor
The strength of Mini drones is that they weigh less than 250 g. And the good news is that the DJI Mini 5 Pro keeps that lightweight, just like the DJI Mini 4 Pro.
In concrete terms, what does this mean? That you can fly without taking a complex certificate, that you comply with European regulations (category C0) and that you can carry your drone anywhere, even in a small bag.
In the hand, the two models look very similar. We find the classic foldable design, super practical to slip into a travel bag. The difference is in the details: the Mini 5 Pro, for example, introduces a more intuitive ignition system and a much wider gimbal rotation, which makes vertical or creative shots easier.
| Characteristics | DJI Mini 5 Pro | DJI Mini 4 Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 249.9 g (Grade C0) | < 249 g (C0 grade) |
| Photo Sensor | 1 inch – 50 MP | 1/1.3 inch – 48 MP |
| Video | 4K 60 fps HDR / 4K 120 fps slow motion | 4K 60 fps HDR / 4K 100 fps slow motion |
| Max ISO | Up to 12,800 (Normal Mode) | Up to 6,400 (normal mode) |
| Gimbal | 225° rotation + native vertical mode | Classic rotation + vertical mode |
| Digital Zoom | x2 lossless (48mm mode) | x2 Classic |
| Obstacle detection | Omnidirectional + LiDAR before (best at night) | Standard Omnidirectional |
| Autonomy | 36 min (standard) / 52 min (battery plus) | 34 min (standard) / 39 min (battery plus) |
| Wind resistance | Up to 12 m/s | Up to 10.7 m/s |
| Max altitude take-off | 6,000 m | 4,000 m |
| Internal storage | 42 GB | 2 GB |
| Video transmission | O4+ (more stable flux, anti-interference) | O4 |
| Introductory price | From 799 € | From 739 € (today often cheaper) |
A game-changing camera
That’s probably THE big difference. The DJI Mini 5 Pro has a 1-inch 50-megapixel sensor, where the DJI Mini 4 Pro used a smaller sensor (1/1.3 inch, 48 megapixels). It may sound technical, but in reality, it’s huge.
A larger sensor means:
- Better light management at the end of the day or in dark scenes.
- A wider dynamic range, so less burnt skies and less blocked shadows.
- More details on each photo and more flexibility in post-production.
In video, the Mini 5 Pro goes up to 4K 120 fps for smooth and truly cinematic slow-motion. The Mini 4 Pro was limited to 4K 60 fps, which was already great, but if you like to capture action (surfing, biking, mountain sports, etc.), the difference is felt.
And then, DJI has added a 48mm equivalent “med-tele” mode on the Mini 5 Pro. In other words: you can zoom in without losing quality, which allows you to isolate a subject and vary the shots without necessarily getting your drone too close. Super useful to give relief to your videos.
Enhanced security with LiDAR
On drones, safety is a mix of sensors and software. The DJI Mini 4 Pro already had excellent omnidirectional detection with its cameras on the front, back, sides, and bottom. But the DJI Mini 5 Pro takes this even further by integrating a LiDAR system on the front.
Why is this important? Because it improves obstacle detection in conditions where conventional cameras show their limits: in low light, in the city at night, or in complex environments. It means more peace of mind when you fly and an even more reliable return home (RTH).
DJI Mini 5 Pro vs DJI Mini 4 Pro: Battery life, a little extra that counts
Again, DJI has nibbled away at a few minutes. The DJI Mini 5 Pro has 36 minutes of battery life with the standard battery, compared to about 34 minutes for the DJI Mini 4 Pro. It may not seem like much, but when you’re in the middle of shooting, every minute counts.
And above all, if you take the “Plus” battery (depending on availability in your country), you can go up to 52 minutes with the Mini 5 Pro. Suffice to say that it is close to the comfort of use of a larger drone, without exceeding 250 g.
More muscular flight performance
In terms of piloting, the DJI Mini 5 Pro is a little more nervous. It can climb faster, resists wind better (up to 12 m/s compared to about 10 m/s for the Mini 4 Pro), and accepts higher take-off altitudes (6000 m compared to 4000 m).
Basically: if you often travel in the mountains or in slightly demanding conditions, the Mini 5 Pro offers more room for manoeuvre.
Transmission and storage: everyday comfort
A detail that is not a detail: the DJI Mini 5 Pro integrates 42 GB of internal storage. Suffice to say that if you forget your microSD card, you can still shoot for a long time. The DJI Mini 4 Pro only had 2 GB.
For those who travel a lot, it’s a real safety net.
On the transmission side, the Mini 5 Pro switches to O4+, with a more stable and crisp video stream, even when there is interference. It makes riding more comfortable and reduces the micro-cuts that could happen with the previous generation.
DJI Mini 5 Pro vs DJI Mini 4 Pro: Available prices and bundles
In terms of price, the DJI Mini 5 Pro starts at around €799 in the drone version alone. Count more if you want a remote control with an integrated display (RC 2).
The DJI Mini 4 Pro, on the other hand, is now cheaper than when it was released. So it’s a smart choice if you’re on a tight budget and don’t need the latest stuff.
So, which one should you choose?
It all depends on your use:
👉 Get the DJI Mini 5 Pro if:
- You want the best possible image quality in this format.
- You often film in low light or at night.
- You want to enjoy slow motion in 4K 120 fps.
- You travel and you need more safety (LiDAR, better wind resistance, better range).
👉 Stays on the DJI Mini 4 Pro if:
- You have a limited budget.
- You especially want to film in broad daylight or for leisure.
- You don’t feel the need for a larger sensor or internal storage.
Conclusion
DJI hits hard again with the DJI Mini 5 Pro. It’s not a total revolution, but a solid evolution that makes a difference for those who want to create high-quality content with an ultra-compact drone.
The DJI Mini 4 Pro is still a great drone for the majority of users, but if you want to push your videos a little further, the Mini 5 Pro will open doors that its predecessor didn’t have.
In other words: if you already have a Mini 4 Pro and are satisfied with it, you can wait a little longer. But if you’re buying your first drone or want to seriously upgrade your kit, the Mini 5 Pro is clearly the best choice in 2025.
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