Autel and DJI are leading drone manufacturers, but recent experiences raise questions about the reliability of Autel drones compared to DJI. While DJI drones like the Mavic Air 2 have a reputation for stable performance, some Autel users, particularly with the Nano Plus, report concerning issues with gimbal tilt and control responsiveness.
One common problem reported with the Autel Nano Plus is sudden gimbal tilt during flight, persisting even after power cycles and self-checks. In some instances, the gimbal corrects itself, but in others, it remains tilted, rendering captured footage unusable. More seriously, users describe instances where the Nano Plus becomes unresponsive to control inputs, suddenly changing direction or flying erratically despite sufficient battery and calm wind conditions. These incidents have occurred in close proximity to the pilot, raising concerns about potential crash risks. One user reported a near-miss with a tree due to this unpredictable behavior. These control issues seem to occur more frequently when the drone is closer to the operator.
In contrast, DJI drones, particularly the Mavic Air 2, are known for their reliable flight control systems and stable performance even in moderately windy conditions. Extensive user experience with DJI drones suggests fewer instances of sudden control failures or erratic flight behavior. This difference in reported reliability raises questions about the flight control systems and software employed by Autel compared to DJI. Further investigation and comparison between the Autel Evo and Mavic Air 2 are necessary to determine if these issues are specific to the Nano Plus or indicative of broader concerns with Autel’s drone technology.
Choosing between the Autel Evo and Mavic Air 2 requires careful consideration of reliability and control responsiveness. While the Autel Evo offers competitive features, the reported issues with the Nano Plus suggest potential concerns that warrant further investigation. The consistent performance of DJI drones like the Mavic Air 2 highlights the importance of reliable flight control systems for safe and predictable drone operation. Users should prioritize stability and responsiveness when making their drone purchase decision.
