DJI Neo Controller Compatibility Guide

Good day, folks! Shawn here from Air Photography. Since the launch of the DJI Neo, I’ve received many excellent questions about its functionality and capabilities, which I’ll address in upcoming videos. One of the most common questions I’ve been asked on YouTube and my other social media channels is about controller compatibility.

Perhaps you’re considering purchasing the Neo but want to know if it’s compatible with your existing gear, or you’re planning to buy it and want to know which controller you should get. I included some of this information in my full Review, but I thought I’d make a separate video covering it quickly for those seeking specific information.

Standalone and Smartphone Control

When it comes to the DJI Neo, no controller is actually needed if you just want to use some of the intelligent flight functionality.

This drone can launch from the palm of your hand with one button, perform its task, and then come right back and land in your hand.

Alternatively, you can use your smartphone with the DJI Fly App, which provides virtual joysticks for more traditional drone flight.

Keep in mind that when using your smartphone and virtual joysticks, it’s just a Wi-Fi connection, so your range will be limited, and you may be susceptible to interference. The app is compatible with both iPhones and Android devices.

Controller Compatibility

DJI RCN 3 Controller

Alongside the DJI Neo, DJI launched a new RCN 3 controller. You can purchase this as a bundle with the Neo or independently. This controller provides a more traditional drone flight experience and uses the O4 transmission system, giving you a better connection and range. The O4 transmission system with the DJI Neo is rated for 10 km.

RCN 2 Controller

The previous generation RCN 2 controller, which comes with the Mini 4 Pro or the DJI Air 3, is also compatible with the DJI Neo.

DJI RC 2 Controller

If you prefer a controller with a screen, the DJI RC 2 is fully compatible with the Neo. It offers traditional drone flight controls with good stick response, the O4 transmission system, and a built-in screen, eliminating the need to connect a phone. This controller comes with the Mini 4 Pro and the DJI Air 3. Note that the older version, the regular DJI RC, is not currently compatible with the Neo.

FPV Compatibility

The Neo is capable of FPV-style flight and is compatible with the DJI Goggles 3. However, it’s not compatible with the Goggles 2 or the Goggles Integra at this time.

FPV Controllers

For FPV-style flying, you’ll need a compatible controller:

The Motion 3 controller is the only generation of motion controller currently compatible with the Neo.
For traditional FPV flight, the DJI FPV 3 controller is compatible. This is also the controller you’ll need to fly the Neo in full manual mode, similar to the Avata.

Note that at the time of filming, the Neo is not compatible with older FPV controllers.

Future Compatibility

Regarding compatibility with older gear not mentioned in this video, DJI has been known to make older devices compatible through updates. Some older equipment may become compatible in the future, but we’ll have to wait and see what DJI does.

That’s it for this quick video covering the controller compatibility of the DJI Neo. Hopefully, you found this information valuable. If you did, give it a thumbs up – it’s always greatly appreciated. Thanks for watching, and we’ll see you in the next one!