The choice of drone for solar use cases is crucial, considering factors like battery life, flight capabilities, and weather resistance. A drone should be viewed as a business tool, not just a tech toy. This Autel Evo review explores the Evo II Pro 6K and its suitability for solar work.
Autel Evo II Pro 6K: Features and Performance
The Autel Evo II Pro 6K boasts impressive specifications:
- Weight: 2.58 lbs (1,174 g)
- Sensor Size: 1”
- Transmission Range: 9 KM
- Flight Time: Up to 40 minutes
- Camera: 6K Ultra-HD
- Price: $1,795 (Standard); $2,095 (Rugged bundle)
Pros of the Autel Evo II Pro 6K
- Excellent Battery Life: Tests reveal a flight time of 36-38 minutes, sufficient for large commercial solar surveys. This rivals the DJI Mavic 3 and surpasses the Mavic 2’s 30-minute flight time.
- Robust Build Quality: The drone feels durable and well-constructed, inspiring confidence during handling.
- Stable and Sturdy Flight: The slightly heavier battery enhances stability, especially in windy conditions. This was noticeable in test flights.
- Integrated Flight Features: The Autel app allows for point-of-interest (POI) flights and pre-planned grid missions, unlike DJI, which requires a separate app for grid planning. This streamlines both residential and commercial solar surveys.
- Built-in Controller Screen: The controller features a small screen, eliminating the need for a smartphone or smart controller.
Cons of the Autel Evo II Pro 6K
- Lower Brand Recognition: Compared to DJI, Autel has less brand recognition, potentially making it harder to source accessories and parts.
- Uncertainty about Autel’s Future: While the Evo II Pro 6K is powerful, Autel’s long-term competitiveness in the drone market remains a question.
- Higher Price Point: The Evo II Pro 6K is pricier than comparable drones like the DJI Mavic Air 2, although its added features, like in-app flight planning, justify the cost.
- Overly Aggressive Obstacle Avoidance: The drone’s obstacle avoidance can be overly sensitive, sometimes causing unnecessary hovering. While this enhances safety, it can disrupt workflow.
Autel Evo II Pro 6K for Solar Surveying: Is It Worth It?
The Autel Evo II Pro 6K proves to be a strong competitor to DJI, offering features specifically beneficial for solar applications. While Autel’s brand recognition lags behind DJI, the Evo II Pro 6K’s functionality and ease of use make it a compelling choice.
The impressive battery life, flight stability, and integrated flight planning capabilities make the Autel Evo II Pro 6K a highly suitable drone for both residential and commercial solar site surveying. Its performance and features solidify its position as a valuable tool for solar professionals.
