by Dr Drone April 17, 2024
DrDrone's Verdict
The DJI Avata 2 has a lot of design upgrades over the DJI Avata. The overall frame has been redesigned. The frame is slightly larger than the predecessor and the central body of the aircraft is longer than the Avata. However it sits quite low to the ground and the overall height of the drone is considerably lower than the Avata.The battery is also redesigned along with the locking mechanism. On the Goggles, you can see the AR cameras facing outwards right away, which were not present on the DJI Goggles 2 or the Integra version. The new motion controller has a more ergonomic design, a two stop throttle control and a very convenient button layout for the Easy ACRO features built into the Avata 2. Our test pilots could not stop raving about the two stop throttle as it fixes all the nagging issues the RC Motion 2 used to have with unwanted input when the pilot moves. You can now charge the battery in the drone with the Avata 2, which was sorely missed in the previous generation. Thankfully, the location of the SD card slot was also changed to make it a lot more accessible on the DJI Avata 2. Since the camera gimbal unit has no obstructions above or below the camera lens, the Avata 2 has a wider tilt angle range of -85° to 80° . The Goggles 3 that are included with the Avata 2 now feature real-time live view from the AR cameras mounted on the Goggles 3, thus letting the pilot see through the goggles without having to take them off. A simple double tap on the left side of the goggles now brings up the Real-View PIP feature so that the pilot can take a look around.
In our testing we noticed how the flight was more precise than the Avata 1 and how the Avata 2 flew faster in Sport mode than its predecessor. The lower weight by 30g and better, more efficient battery management gives it a longer flight time of up to 23 min. The biggest difference was in noise. The Avata made a very loud, screeching noise when flying. However, thanks to the redesigned propellers and overall propulsion system, the Avata 2 was significantly more quiet in our tests. When it comes to imaging performance, the Avata 2’s upgraded camera performed a lot better, especially during our sunset flights. The new camera has a wider dynamic range as well as considerably better low light performance. We noticed quite a lot less noise in the video captured from the Avata 2 when compared to the DJI Avata which is thanks to the improved camera sensor and optimizations. The lens is also wider on the Avata 2 giving you a much more immersive experience with super wide footage.
In conclusion, the DJI Avata 2 builds upon the solid foundation of the DJI Avata and improves upon every aspect of the drone, controller as well as the Goggles making it a perfect replacement for its predecessor.
DJI Avata 2
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DJI Avata
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DJI Avata 2 | DJI Avata | |
Price |
Starting at
CAD $1,379.00
US $999.00
| Starting at CAD $1,129.00 US $829.00 |
Dimensions (LxWxH) | 185×212×64 mm (L×W×H) | 180×180×80 mm |
Weight | 377 g | 410 g |
Image Sensor Size | 1/1.3-inch | 1/1.7-Inch |
Max Photo Resolution | 12 MP | 12 MP |
Max Video Resolution | 4K/60fps | 4K/60fps |
Video Transmission | OcuSync 4.0 13km 1080p@100fps 24ms latency | OcuSync 3.0 10km 720p@30fps 30ms latency |
Vision System | Downward and backward visual positioning | Downward Sensors |
Max Flight Speed | 97.2 kph (M-Mode) | 97.2 kph (M-Mode) |
Max Flight Time | 23 Minutes | 18 Minutes |
Max Wind Resistance | 38.5 km/h | 38.5 km/h |
Internal Storage | 46GB | 20 GB |
Unveiling the next evolution in first-person-view (FPV) drone flight, DJI introduces the DJI Avata 2, promising an exhilarating aerial experience enriched with cutting-edge technology and enhanced features. As we embark on a journey through the significant upgrades that differentiate the Avata 2 from its predecessor, the DJI Avata, let's delve into the details of what's new and improved.
One of the most notable upgrades in the Avata 2 is its imaging capabilities. Equipped with a larger 1/1.3" CMOS super-wide-angle camera, the Avata 2 surpasses its predecessor in capturing breathtaking aerial footage. The inclusion of 4K/60fps HDR video recording elevates the visual experience, delivering sharper images and enhanced dynamic range, perfect for capturing every detail of the aerial landscape with stunning clarity.
Safety remains paramount in the design of the Avata 2, with significant enhancements to ensure a secure and stable flight experience. Integrated propeller guards provide added protection against collisions, reducing the risk of damage to both the drone and surrounding objects. Advanced positioning sensors, including downward/backward visual positioning, further enhance spatial awareness, enabling precise navigation even in complex environments.
Powered by an upgraded battery system, the Avata 2 boasts an impressive maximum flight time of up to 23 minutes, a significant improvement over the 18-minute flight time of its predecessor. This extended battery life allows pilots to enjoy longer flight sessions without the need for frequent recharging, enhancing the overall flying experience and enabling more ambitious aerial maneuvers.
Communication between the drone and its controller receives a boost with the introduction of DJI O4 video transmission in the Avata 2. Offering a maximum transmission distance of 13 km and a bitrate of 60Mbps, the O4 transmission system ensures a stable and reliable connection, even in challenging RF environments. This upgrade provides pilots with greater flexibility and confidence during flight, allowing them to explore farther and capture stunning aerial footage with ease.
Pairing the Avata 2 with the latest DJI Goggles 3 and DJI RC Motion 3 controller unlocks a new level of immersive flight experience. The Goggles 3 features Real View PiP, a groundbreaking feature that enhances safety by keeping pilots aware of their physical surroundings while immersed in flight. With its micro-OLED display and near-zero latency, the Goggles 3 delivers crisp visuals and responsive controls, providing pilots with a vivid, real-time view of their aerial adventures.
Easy Acro on the DJI Avata 2 allows you to effortlessly perform flips, rolls, and spins with the push of a button. Perfect for both novice and experienced pilots, Easy Acro adds excitement to every flight.
The RC Motion 3 controller complements the immersive experience with its intuitive design, simplifying complex maneuvers into simple, one-push actions. Whether executing flips, rolls, or 180° drifts, pilots can capture dynamic FPV shots with remarkable ease, elevating their aerial footage game to new heights.
Photography and videography enthusiasts will appreciate the enhancements to the Avata 2's camera system. Featuring a larger 1/1.3" CMOS sensor and a 155° ultra-wide-angle field of view, the Avata 2 delivers stunning visuals with enhanced clarity and detail, even in challenging lighting conditions. The inclusion of RockSteady and HorizonSteady stabilization technologies ensures smooth and steady footage, allowing pilots to capture professional-quality shots with minimal effort.
Furthermore, the Avata 2 introduces a 10-bit D-Log M color mode, offering a broader color spectrum and enhanced tonal control for professional-grade color grading in post-production. With 46GB of large internal storage and High-Speed QuickTransfer capabilities, managing and transferring footage is fast and efficient, allowing pilots to focus on their creative vision without interruption.
Safety is at the core of the Avata 2's design, with a range of features aimed at enhancing pilot confidence and ensuring a safe flying experience.
In addition to integrated propeller guards and advanced positioning sensors, the Avata 2 includes automatic return to home (RTH) functionality, allowing the drone to autonomously return to its launch point in case of signal loss or low battery.
Moreover, like the original Avata, the Avata 2 also includes "Turtle Mode," a specialized flight mode that allows pilots to easily recover from mid-air crashes by flipping the drone upright and resuming flight.
These safety features, combined with the drone's agile maneuverability and robust construction, make the Avata 2 an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced FPV enthusiasts alike.
Despite its advanced features and capabilities, the Avata 2 is well-suited for beginners looking to explore the world of FPV flight. Its intuitive controls, enhanced safety features, and extended battery life make it an accessible option for novice pilots seeking a thrilling yet user-friendly flying experience.
While traditional camera drones excel in capturing scenic vistas and aerial photography, the Avata 2 offers a different kind of thrill. Designed for maneuverability and engagement, it embraces the immersive world of FPV flying, inviting pilots to experience the thrill of dynamic aerial maneuvers and adrenaline-pumping flights. With integrated propeller guards, advanced safety features, and intuitive controls, the Avata 2 provides a refreshing twist for drone enthusiasts seeking a more exhilarating aerial perspective.
In conclusion, the DJI Avata 2 represents a significant leap forward in FPV drone technology, offering enhanced imaging capabilities, advanced safety features, and an immersive flying experience that pushes the boundaries of aerial exploration. Whether you're a seasoned FPV pilot or a beginner looking to embark on a thrilling adventure, the Avata 2 promises an unforgettable flying experience that combines innovation, performance, and excitement in equal measure.
Dr Drone
Author
DrDrone is Canada's leading provider of drone technical services, with over a decade of experience and the distinction of being the first company in the country to offer drone servicing and repairs. As the largest drone vendor in Canada, we are also the primary supplier of Remotely Piloted Air Systems (RPAS) to the Canadian government. Our team members possess extensive knowledge of each drone's technical specifications and have a wealth of hands-on experience. For more than ten years, we have been dismantling and reconstructing drones, ensuring a deep understanding of these systems.