For years, DJI dominated the consumer drone market. However, Autel’s Evo Lite+ emerged as a formidable challenger to the DJI Air 2S. This comprehensive comparison delves into the features, performance, and value of both drones to help you decide which is right for you. The Autel Evo Lite+ boasts impressive specs seemingly pulled from an Air 2S owner’s wishlist, raising the question: is it worth the investment?
Price Comparison: Autel Evo Lite+ vs DJI Air 2S
The Autel Evo Lite+ commands a higher price than the DJI Air 2S. The Lite+ standard package, including one battery and extra propellers, costs around $1,349. The premium bundle, with three batteries, a charger, and a carrying case, is priced around $1,649. The DJI Air 2S is more budget-friendly, with the standard package at $999 and the Fly More Combo at $1,299. This significant price difference of approximately 30% positions the Lite+ in a higher price bracket.
Design and Build: Size and Weight Differences
While both drones share a similar design, the Evo Lite+ is noticeably larger and heavier. When folded, the Lite+ measures 210x123x95mm compared to the Air 2S’s more compact 180x97x77mm. This size difference extends to weight, with the Lite+ weighing 835g and the Air 2S at 595g. The Lite+’s added weight primarily stems from its larger battery, contributing to a longer flight time and greater wind resistance.
Camera Showdown: Sensor, Aperture, and Low-Light Performance
Both drones feature a 1-inch 20MP CMOS sensor, but the Lite+ boasts a variable aperture (f/2.8 to f/11) compared to the Air 2S’s fixed f/2.8 aperture. This adjustable aperture allows for greater light control and depth of field manipulation. Furthermore, the Lite+’s superior low-light performance, with a night mode boosting ISO to 48000, surpasses the Air 2S’s maximum ISO of 6400.
Video Capabilities: Resolution, Frame Rates, and Bitrate
Both drones offer comparable video resolutions and frame rates, with up to 5.4K at 30fps and 4K at 60fps. However, the Air 2S offers a slightly higher bitrate of 150Mbps compared to the Lite+’s 120Mbps. Autel promises future firmware updates for the Lite+ to include HDR video and a D-Log profile, features currently exclusive to the Air 2S.
Flight Performance: Speed, Wind Resistance, and Battery Life
The Lite+ excels in flight performance with a longer flight time of 40 minutes, thanks to its larger battery, compared to the Air 2S’s 31 minutes. The Lite+ also boasts superior wind resistance, rated at 16.5 m/s versus the Air 2S’s 10.7 m/s. Both drones offer similar top speeds.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Drone for Your Needs
The Autel Evo Lite+ presents a strong challenge to the DJI Air 2S with its superior camera, longer flight time, and enhanced wind resistance. However, the Air 2S remains a compelling option due to its lower price and mature feature set. The best choice ultimately depends on your budget and specific requirements. If image quality and flight time are paramount, the Lite+ is a worthy investment. If budget is a primary concern, the Air 2S still delivers excellent performance.
