# DJI Air 3S Review: The Premier Quadcopter Drone for Aficionados
The DJI Air 3S is the newest entry in DJI’s Air series, which has adeptly connected the realm of professional-grade drones with more consumer-friendly alternatives. Situated as an upgrade from the Mini series but priced lower than the Mavic range, the Air 3S offers an appealing blend of sophisticated features, outstanding camera performance, and intuitive flight modes. Whether you’re a casual flyer or an aspiring filmmaker, the Air 3S is built to meet diverse requirements.
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## **Notable Features and Specs**
The DJI Air 3S enhances its predecessor, the Air 3, with significant improvements in camera functionality, flying features, and obstacle detection. Below is a brief overview of its specifications:
| **Feature** | **Details** |
|——————————|——————————————|
| **Dimensions (Folded)** | 214.19 × 100.63 × 89.17 mm |
| **Weight** | 724g |
| **Max Speed** | 47 mph |
| **Max Transmission Distance**| 12.4 miles |
| **Camera** | Wide: 1-inch CMOS, 50MP, f/1.8
Tele: 1/1.3-inch CMOS, 48MP, 70mm equivalent |
| **Video Quality** | 4K at 120fps, 1080p at 240fps |
| **Battery Life** | Up to 45 minutes |
| **Price** | Starting at $1,099 |
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## **Design: Sleek and Practical**
Upon first inspection, the DJI Air 3S showcases the well-known design aesthetic of DJI drones, featuring a compact, foldable form that facilitates easy transport. Its sturdy gray plastic exterior is both robust and lightweight, complemented by black accents on the propellers and camera gimbal for an elegant touch.
The drone is equipped with omnidirectional obstacle sensors, strategically distributed around its frame to bolster flight safety. The back compartment includes a removable battery, a USB-C port, and a microSD card slot for convenient access. Additionally, the Air 3S is packaged with a premium carrying case, particularly in the Fly More Combo, which provides extra batteries and propellers.
It’s important to note its weight—724 grams—requiring FAA registration if flying within the U.S. This distinguishes it from DJI’s Mini series, which typically remains below the 250-gram registration limit.
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## **Controller: A Versatile and Comfortable Experience**
The Air 3S can be purchased with two controller variants:
1. **DJI RC-N3 Controller**: This option requires a smartphone to view the live camera feed. It is a budget-friendly choice that utilizes your device’s high-resolution display.
2. **DJI RC2 Controller**: Offered in the Fly More Combo, this integrated controller has a built-in screen, removing the necessity for a smartphone. The 1080p resolution and 720-nit brightness are adequate for most users, though high-end smartphones may provide enhanced display quality.
Both controllers are designed with comfort in mind, featuring smooth joysticks and quick-response buttons, promising a pleasant flying experience.
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## **Flight Performance: Reliable and Smooth**
The DJI Air 3S comes with three essential flight modes:
– **Cine Mode**: Tailored for slow, cinematic footage.
– **Normal Mode**: Perfect for routine flying.
– **Sport Mode**: Unlocks the drone’s maximum speed of 47 mph while deactivating obstacle avoidance.
The drone’s omnidirectional obstacle avoidance system is a key highlight, guaranteeing safety in all directions except when in Sport Mode. Moreover, the advanced Return to Home (RTH) feature cleverly plots the safest and most efficient path back to its launch point, even in intricate settings.
Additional smart functionalities include DJI’s ActiveTrack 360, which enables the drone to follow a selected subject while maintaining central framing. This proves particularly beneficial for capturing vibrant shots of moving objects.
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## **Battery Life: Enhanced Flight Duration**
Featuring a maximum flight duration of 45 minutes per charge, the Air 3S surpasses many rivals in its category. The Fly More Combo package provides three batteries, enabling prolonged sessions without the need for frequent charging. While actual flight times may fluctuate based on wind conditions and selected flying modes, the Air 3S reliably delivers superior performance.
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## **Camera System: Dual-Lens Brilliance**
Equipped with a dual-camera setup, the Air 3S accommodates various shooting situations:
1. **Wide-Angle Camera**: A 1-inch CMOS sensor boasting 50MP resolution and an f/1.8 aperture, ideal for capturing detailed vistas.
2. **
