The Autel Evo II Pro 6K drone is a powerful contender in the drone market, boasting impressive features for various applications, including solar surveying. This comprehensive review, based on extensive flight tests, delves into its capabilities, advantages, and disadvantages to determine its suitability for solar professionals.
Autel Evo II Pro 6K: Features and Performance
The Autel Evo II Pro 6K boasts a robust build, a 1” sensor, and a 6K Ultra-HD camera, promising exceptional image quality. With a claimed flight time of up to 40 minutes and a transmission range of 9 KM, it appears well-suited for large-scale solar projects. Our Autel Evo Flight Test aimed to verify these claims and assess its real-world performance.
Flight Test Results: Strengths
- Battery Life: In our autel evo flight test, the drone consistently achieved a flight time of 36-38 minutes, slightly less than the advertised 40 minutes but still impressive for extensive solar surveys. This duration surpasses the DJI Mavic 2 and rivals the newer DJI Mavic 3.
- Stability and Durability: The Evo II Pro 6K demonstrated exceptional stability during flight, even in windy conditions. Its robust build quality instills confidence during handling and operation.
- In-App Flight Planning: A significant advantage for solar professionals is the integrated flight planning software. The Autel Evo allows for pre-planned grid-style missions directly within its app, streamlining data acquisition for both residential and commercial solar sites. This feature eliminates the need for third-party apps, unlike DJI drones that require separate software for similar functionality.
- Integrated Controller Screen: The included controller features a built-in screen, eliminating the need for a smartphone or smart controller for flight operation. This simplifies setup and enhances convenience in the field.
Flight Test Results: Weaknesses
- Obstacle Avoidance: While designed for safety, the obstacle avoidance system proved overly sensitive during our autel evo flight test. The drone frequently halted and hovered unnecessarily, even when ample clearance was available. This can disrupt workflow and require manual intervention.
- Brand Recognition and Support: Compared to the market leader DJI, Autel has less brand recognition, potentially impacting the availability of accessories, spare parts, and community support.
- Price Point: The Autel Evo II Pro 6K is priced higher than comparable drones like the DJI Mavic Air 2. While its advanced features justify some of the cost, it remains a significant investment.
Autel Evo for Solar Surveying: Final Verdict
Our autel evo flight test confirms that the Evo II Pro 6K is a capable drone for solar surveying. Its extended flight time, stable performance, and integrated flight planning software provide significant advantages for solar professionals. The ability to conduct pre-planned missions directly within the app streamlines workflows and enhances efficiency for both residential and commercial projects.
However, the overly sensitive obstacle avoidance and higher price point should be considered. While the Autel Evo II Pro 6K offers a compelling alternative to DJI drones, potential buyers should weigh these factors against their specific needs and budget. Overall, the Autel Evo II Pro 6K is a strong contender in the drone market for solar applications.
