The Autel Lite Plus Review is here to provide you with a detailed look at this powerful drone, offering insights into its features and performance. If you’re in the market for aerial photography equipment, CARDIAGTECH.NET offers a range of solutions. Explore our inventory to elevate your drone experience with top-notch accessories and support tools, and discover how you can get the most out of your aerial endeavors.
1. Unveiling the Autel Evo Lite+ Drone: A Comprehensive Review
The Autel Evo Lite+ is a mid-size folding drone designed for photographers and video specialists who demand quality and versatility. As an alternative to market leader DJI, Autel Robotics distinguishes itself by not preloading its drones with geographic-based takeoff restrictions. The Evo Lite+ boasts a 6K video camera with a 1-inch sensor and a variable aperture, offering enhanced capabilities compared to the DJI Air 2S. This review dives into the features, performance, and overall value of the Autel Evo Lite+, helping you make an informed decision.
2. Design and Portability: Taking the Autel Evo Lite+ on the Go
The Autel Evo Lite+ falls into the midsize category of folding drones, making it larger than beginner-friendly models like the DJI Mini 2 and Autel Nano series, but more compact than the Evo II Pro and DJI Mavic 3. Measuring approximately 4.8 x 3.7 x 8.3 inches when folded, it requires a dedicated bag or backpack for convenient transport. Weighing in at 1.8 pounds, it is important to ensure compliance with local aviation regulations such as the Trust test and FAA registration before flying it in the US. It is available in three stylish colors: Arctic White, Autel Orange, and Deep Space Gray, allowing you to choose a drone that fits your personal style.
The Autel Evo Lite+ folds for easy storage and includes a protective cover for its camera.
3. Camera Capabilities: Capturing Stunning 6K Video and High-Resolution Images
Autel offers two versions of this drone: the Evo Lite and Evo Lite+. The Evo Lite+ features a 6K camera with a large, 1-inch sensor and a variable aperture. This is a significant upgrade from the standard Lite model, which uses a 4K HDR camera with a smaller image sensor. The variable aperture allows users to control the amount of light hitting the sensor, reducing the need for neutral density (ND) filters. This feature is particularly useful in bright conditions, ensuring optimal exposure and image quality.
4. Purchasing Options: Bundles and Accessories for the Autel Evo Lite+
The Autel Evo Lite+ is available in a basic kit that includes a single battery and remote control. However, for those who want more, the Premium bundle offers additional value with three batteries, a triple charger, a set of neutral density filters, and a convenient carrying case. The carrying bag, an attractive ash gray shoulder satchel, is slightly undersized for comfortably holding the drone, batteries, and remote.
4.1 Storage Solutions: MicroSD Card Recommendations
The drone includes 6GB of internal storage, which is sufficient for photography. However, 6K video recording can quickly fill up the available space. Therefore, it’s recommended to invest in at least a 64GB microSD card. A SanDisk Extreme Plus or any card with a V30 video speed rating is ideal for handling 6K recording, ensuring smooth and reliable performance. Expect to pay around $25 for a suitable microSD card.
5. Flight Performance: Battery Life and Real-World Testing
Autel claims the flight battery can last up to 40 minutes between charges, although real-world usage typically yields slightly less. In test flights, the Autel Evo Lite+ averaged around 35 minutes of airtime, an excellent result that surpasses the 31 minutes achieved by the DJI Air 2S in similar testing. This extended flight time allows for more comprehensive aerial photography and videography sessions without the need for frequent battery changes.
The battery loads in the rear and includes a visual gauge to show its charge level.
6. Remote Controller and App: Navigating the Skies with Ease
Autel has introduced a new remote for this generation of drones, which, unlike previous models, does not include a built-in display. This shift may disappoint pilots who appreciated the phone-free flying experience offered by the Evo II. The Autel Evo Lite+ is incompatible with older transmitters featuring built-in displays, as well as the Evo II Pro controller, both of which rely on different transmission protocols.
6.1 Enhanced Connectivity and App Integration
Despite the absence of a built-in display, the updated remote provides a stronger connection to the aircraft. During test flights, the connection remained stable with a 2.7K feed from the camera. To view the camera feed, users need to connect an Android or iOS smartphone via the Autel Sky companion app, a free download available on both platforms.
6.2 Controller Design and Functionality
The controller features a clip to securely hold your phone, accommodating larger handsets like the iPhone 8 Plus and smaller models like the iPhone 13. Autel includes a set of short USB-C cables for connecting to phones with Lightning, micro USB, or USB-C connectors. A second USB-C charging port is located on the bottom of the controller.
6.3 Minor Drawbacks: Control Stick Storage
One minor drawback of the remote is the lack of a dedicated storage space for the removable control sticks, a feature commonly found in DJI controllers. However, the controller feels robust and includes essential buttons for calling the drone back home, pausing it mid-flight, a control wheel for camera tilt on the left shoulder, and a shutter release on the right.
6.4 Autel Sky App: User Interface and Key Features
The Autel Sky app provides a comprehensive interface with all the necessary information for a successful flight. The drone’s position is displayed on a map in the bottom left corner, and a compass indicates the drone’s position relative to the home point. Battery life and estimated flight time remaining are shown at the top right, along with a visual gauge that warns if you fly too far from home.
7. Safety Features: Ensuring a Secure Flight Experience
The Autel Evo Lite+ incorporates several safety features to ensure a secure and reliable flight experience. An integrated GPS module tracks the drone’s location and works in conjunction with downward-facing visual sensors, enabling the drone to hover in place when the controls are released. Additionally, a return-to-home function automatically brings the drone back to its takeoff location if it loses communication with the remote, providing an extra layer of safety.
7.1 Geofencing and Regulatory Compliance
Unlike DJI drones, the Autel Evo Lite+ does not include geofencing, which limits where the drone can fly. Therefore, it is essential for users to verify that they are authorized to fly in a specific area. The FAA B4UFLY site offers valuable guidance, particularly for pilots in the US. When flying abroad, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with local regulations to ensure compliance.
7.2 Absence of ADS-B Receiver
The Autel Evo Lite+ lacks an ADS-B receiver, which warns of nearby aircraft. If you live in an area with frequent low-altitude aircraft traffic, the DJI Air 2S, with its AirSense system, may be a safer option.
7.3 Obstacle Detection: Enhancing Flight Safety
Equipped with forward-, rear-, and downward-facing sensors, the Autel Evo Lite+ can detect obstacles and stop in place to avoid collisions. However, unlike some models from DJI and Skydio, the drone does not automatically navigate around obstacles. The Autel Evo Lite+ also lacks upward- and side-facing sensors. Subject tracking is supported at 4K or lower resolutions, but it is crucial to use this feature in obstruction-free environments due to limited sensor coverage.
Obstacle sensors are arranged in stereo pairs; the rear sensors are the two black circles below the battery.
8. Camera Performance: Evaluating the 6K Camera System
The Autel Evo Lite+ stands out due to its camera capabilities, which differentiate it from the standard Lite model. The Evo Lite+ boasts a 1-inch sensor, similar to those found in premium compact cameras and drones like the DJI Air 2S and Autel Evo II Pro. Sharing the same 20MP sensor as the Evo II Pro, the Lite+ captures a 29mm angle with an adjustable f/2.8-11 aperture. Focusing closer than the Evo II Pro, the Lite+ delivers comparable picture quality.
8.1 Video Recording: Quality and Profiles
The Autel Evo Lite+ offers versatile video recording options, including 6K at 24, 25, or 30fps, and 4K or 2.7K at up to 60fps. A 120fps option is also available at a reduced resolution of 1080p. The drone records video in 8-bit quality at a 120Mbps bitrate, supporting both H.264 and H.265/HEVC codecs. A 3-axis gimbal ensures stable footage, providing a pan range that starts straight ahead and tilts downward 90 degrees for overhead shots.
8.2 Video Profiles: Standard vs. Log
Two video profiles are available: the default color look and a flat Log profile for color correction. The standard profile offers vibrant, saturated colors, but can exhibit aggressive sharpening, causing shimmering effects over grassy fields. The flat profile captures footage with less saturation and contrast, but also shows sharpening artifacts, albeit to a lesser extent.
8.3 Limitations in Customization
While the Evo II Pro offered more control over video settings, including sharpening and saturation adjustments, these options are absent in the Autel Evo Lite+. Adding these settings back into the app and introducing a more natural color profile would enhance user control. Additionally, a black-and-white mode could cater to pilots who prefer not to use color correction tools.
8.4 Aperture Control and Lens Performance
The adjustable aperture, ranging from f/2.8 to f/11, allows videographers to maintain a 1/60-second shutter speed for 30fps footage or 1/48-second for 24fps. The lens performs optimally around f/5.6, suggesting the use of ND filters to reduce incoming light on bright days, especially for those who prefer 24fps footage.
8.5 Digital Zoom Capabilities
Two levels of digital zoom are available: 2x and 4x. The 2x setting provides a tighter 58mm angle, bringing distant subjects into clearer view without significant quality loss. The 4x setting results in a noticeable drop in resolution, with details appearing soft, especially on larger displays.
8.6 Additional Shooting Modes
The app includes automated Quick Shots like Fade Away, Flick, Orbit, and Rocket, as well as Hyperlapse, panoramic imaging, a shallow-depth-of-field portrait mode, and a night shot option. The 1-inch sensor excels in low-light conditions, supporting an ISO range of 100-6400.
8.7 Still Photography: Capturing High-Quality Images
The Autel Evo Lite+ can save photos in either JPG or Raw DNG format at 20MP resolution. The JPG engine captures saturated colors, similar to the video profile, while the 10-bit Raw format allows photographers greater creative control. Images edited in Adobe Lightroom Classic demonstrate the Raw format’s flexibility in tuning color and exposure. Although the 10-bit format is not as malleable as the 12-bit and 14-bit Raw formats on full-frame mirrorless cameras, it still offers ample latitude for adjustments.
8.8 Overall Image Quality
The still quality is generally superior due to the Raw DNG format’s greater control. While the saturated look of the video profiles may appeal to some, adding contrast, saturation, and sharpening options in the app would benefit all users. Even with the Log profile, aggressive sharpening remains a concern.
9. Competitive Landscape: Comparing the Autel Evo Lite+ to the DJI Air 2S
In the competitive drone market, content creators have limited brands to choose from when seeking high-quality camera drones. While Autel Robotics may not have the same recognition as DJI, its drones offer competitive performance. The Autel Evo Lite+ delivers crisp photos and stable 6K video with its 1-inch sensor camera. However, there is room for improvement, particularly in adding configuration options for the video profile and reducing sharpening in the default look. Raw imaging and Log video are available for those who desire more creative control.
9.1 Remote Control Considerations
The shift to a screenless remote control is a notable drawback. While the Evo II Pro provided a solid option for pilots without smartphones, the Autel Evo Lite+ requires a smartphone for operation. The improved transmission range is appreciated, but offering a transmitter with a built-in app would be a significant advantage.
9.2 Safety and Obstacle Avoidance
The safety features are comprehensive, but not as refined as those found in DJI drones. The obstacle sensors effectively stop the drone, but the Autel Evo Lite+ lacks the ability to navigate around obstacles autonomously, unlike the DJI Air 2S or Mini 3 Pro. Exceptional battery life, a stable connection, and the absence of geofencing restrictions are notable strengths. However, users must ensure they are authorized to fly from their chosen takeoff location.
9.3 Ethical Considerations
Ethical factors may influence drone brand choices. The US Treasury has flagged DJI as a potential bad actor, citing the use of DJI’s drone tech for surveillance of the Uyghur minority in China. While Autel is also a Chinese firm, it has not faced similar accusations. For those seeking alternatives to DJI with 1-inch sensor cameras, Autel remains the only viable option.
9.4 DJI Air 2S: A Strong Alternative
Despite these considerations, the DJI Air 2S remains a highly recommended option for creators seeking a drone with a 1-inch camera due to its strong product performance and overall value. While it lacks a variable aperture, requiring greater reliance on ND filters, the DJI’s default color profile is generally more pleasing. The Air 2S is also more affordable, making it an attractive option for many users.
9.5 Parrot Anafi: A Budget-Friendly Choice
For those who can forego the larger sensor, the Parrot Anafi remains a more affordable alternative to DJI, although it is not as capable as the Air 2S or the Evo Lite+.
10. Pros and Cons: Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages of the Autel Evo Lite+
To provide a balanced perspective, here’s a summary of the pros and cons of the Autel Robotics Evo Lite+:
Pros:
- Stabilized 6K30 and 4K60 video
- 20MP stills in Raw DNG or JPG
- 1-inch camera with variable aperture
- Long-lasting battery for up to 35 minutes of flight
- Three-way obstacle sensors
- Automated camera moves and Hyperlapse
- GPS and automated return-to-home
Cons:
- Color video profile isn’t configurable
- 8-bit flat video profile
- Screenless remote is a step backward from previous generation
- Doesn’t support autonomous navigation around obstructions
11. The Verdict: Is the Autel Evo Lite+ the Right Drone for You?
The Autel Robotics Evo Lite+ is a capable folding drone with robust battery life, effective obstacle detection, and support for high-resolution 6K recording. However, some competitors offer a more polished experience at a lower price point. The Autel Evo Lite+ is a strong contender in the mid-range drone market, offering a compelling package of features and performance for aerial photographers and videographers.
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Our knowledgeable staff is always available to answer your questions and provide expert advice. Whether you need help choosing the right accessories for your Autel Evo Lite+ or troubleshooting a technical issue, we are here to assist you every step of the way.
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The Autel Evo Lite+ drone in flight.
14. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Autel Evo Lite+
14.1 What are the main features of the Autel Evo Lite+?
The Autel Evo Lite+ features a 6K camera with a 1-inch sensor, a variable aperture, stabilized video recording, three-way obstacle sensors, and a long-lasting battery for up to 35 minutes of flight time.
14.2 How does the camera performance of the Autel Evo Lite+ compare to the DJI Air 2S?
Both drones feature a 1-inch sensor, but the Autel Evo Lite+ has a variable aperture, which provides more control over exposure. The DJI Air 2S, however, is known for its more pleasing default color profile and lower price.
14.3 What is the flight time of the Autel Evo Lite+?
The Autel Evo Lite+ offers a flight time of up to 35 minutes in real-world conditions, slightly less than the advertised 40 minutes.
14.4 Does the Autel Evo Lite+ have obstacle avoidance?
Yes, the Autel Evo Lite+ is equipped with forward-, rear-, and downward-facing sensors to detect obstacles, but it does not automatically navigate around them.
14.5 What is the storage capacity of the Autel Evo Lite+?
The Autel Evo Lite+ comes with 6GB of internal storage, but it is recommended to use a microSD card for additional storage, especially for 6K video recording.
14.6 What is the difference between the Autel Evo Lite and the Autel Evo Lite+?
The main difference is the camera. The Autel Evo Lite+ features a 6K camera with a 1-inch sensor and variable aperture, while the standard Lite model has a 4K HDR camera with a smaller sensor.
14.7 Does the Autel Evo Lite+ have geofencing restrictions?
No, unlike DJI drones, the Autel Evo Lite+ does not have geofencing restrictions, but users are responsible for ensuring they are authorized to fly in their chosen location.
14.8 What video resolutions and frame rates does the Autel Evo Lite+ support?
The Autel Evo Lite+ supports 6K at 24, 25, or 30fps, 4K or 2.7K at up to 60fps, and 1080p at 120fps.
14.9 What are the pros and cons of the Autel Evo Lite+?
Pros: 6K video, 1-inch sensor, variable aperture, long battery life, obstacle sensors.
Cons: Non-configurable color video profile, 8-bit flat video profile, screenless remote.
14.10 Where can I purchase accessories for the Autel Evo Lite+?
You can purchase a wide range of accessories for the Autel Evo Lite+ at CARDIAGTECH.NET, including extra batteries, ND filters, carrying cases, and more.
15. Internal Linking to Relevant Articles
To further enhance your understanding and provide additional value, here are some internal links to relevant articles on our site:
- Comprehensive Guide to Drone Maintenance
- Choosing the Right Drone Accessories for Aerial Photography
- Top Drone Models for Professional Videography in 2024
By exploring these resources, you’ll gain even more insights into the world of drones and aerial imaging.
This Autel Lite Plus review aims to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about this drone. With its impressive camera capabilities, robust features, and competitive performance, the Autel Evo Lite+ is a valuable tool for any aerial photographer or videographer. Remember to visit CARDIAGTECH.NET for all your drone accessories and support equipment needs.
