European Drone Pilots Face Tough Choice: DJI Air 3S or Mavic 4?

European drone pilots are buzzing with anticipation over the upcoming DJI Air 3S and Mavic 4 models, as revealed in a recent Twitter discussion sparked by drone insider Jasper Ellens. The debate centers on which drone might be the better choice, considering the EU’s strict drone regulations and weight classifications.

Air 3S vs Mavic 4: A Weighty Decision

The key factor in this debate is the weight of these drones and how they’ll fit into the EU’s drone categories.

According to DroneView Berlin, “the Air 3S will have a C1 label, the M4 Pro and Cine will have a C2 Label. The M4 Classic is probably further down the road.”

This distinction is crucial. C1 labeled drones (< 900g) can be flown in subcategory A1, which allows flights over people (but not crowds). C2 labeled drones (< 4kg) fall into subcategory A2, permitting flights close to people.

Marco points out the significant advantage: “The Air 3S can be flown in Open A1, the Mavic only in A3 (guessing Mav4 will be above 900g).”

Specs and Speculation

While exact specs aren’t confirmed, we can make educated guesses based on current models. The DJI Air 3 weighs 720g, so the Air 3S might be similar. The Mavic 3 series ranges from 895g to 963g, suggesting the Mavic 4 could indeed surpass 900g.

Release Dates and Pricing

Jasper Ellens suggests we might not see new leaks until December, leaving pilots wondering about release dates. As for pricing, features and specs, no concrete information is currently available, but the DJI Mavic 4 is expected to be significantly pricier than the Air 3S.

DroneXL’s Take

This debate highlights the growing importance of drone regulations in purchase decisions. The ability to fly in less restrictive categories could be a game-changer for many pilots, potentially making the lighter Air 3S more attractive despite the Mavic 4’s likely superior specs.

The choice between these drones will ultimately depend on each pilot’s specific needs and flying locations. Will the Air 3S’s potential for more flexible flight outweigh the Mavic 4’s expected performance boost? We’re eager to see how this plays out.

What’s your take on this drone dilemma? Are you team Air 3S or Mavic 4? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Photo courtesy of DJI, but sourced by Igor Bogdanov.