Are you in the market for a professional-grade, ultra-light drone? The Autel Nano Plus Vs Dji Mini 3 Pro debate is a hot topic among drone enthusiasts. At CARDIAGTECH.NET, we understand the importance of making an informed decision. This in-depth comparison helps you choose the perfect drone by weighing their features, performance, and value. Discover your ideal flying companion and elevate your aerial capabilities.
1. Design and Build Quality
The design and build quality are crucial factors when choosing between the Autel EVO Nano Plus and the DJI Mini 3 Pro. Both drones are designed to be ultra-light, falling under the 250g weight limit, which exempts them from certain regulations in many countries.
| Feature | DJI Mini 3 Pro | Autel EVO Nano Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Take-Off Weight | 249g | 249g |
| Size (Unfolded) | 171 x 245 x 62mm | 170 x 215 x 55mm |
| Size (Folded) | 145 x 90 x 62mm | 142 x 94 x 55mm |
| Diagonal Span | 247mm | 253mm |
| Collision Sensors | Front / Back / Down | Front / Back / Down |
| Available Colors | N/A | Orange, Grey+Yellow, Light Grey, Red |
Autel has traditionally used a striking orange color for their drones, giving them a professional look similar to high-visibility jackets. However, the Nano is also available in three other colors: a chic grey+yellow, a lighter grey with graphite trim, and a pure red. DJI’s Mini 3 Pro has a design reminiscent of its Air 2S, with a more compact and aggressive look.
The Mini 3 Pro sits on nub-like legs integrated into its fuselage, while the EVO Nano’s front arms have legs to level the drone before takeoff, similar to the Mini 2. It’s essential to open the legs on the Autel in the correct order, while the Mini 3 Pro is more forgiving.
DJI places the front and back vision sensors in protrusions that resemble frog’s eyes, while the Nano’s design integrates the sensors more seamlessly into the body. The rear-facing sensors are crucial for reversing maneuvers, and Autel tucks them into the hinges for the rear arms to maintain a good view at any speed.
Both drones share essential features like a rear-accessed charging connector and battery, and a front-mounted camera gimbal.
Both drones have similar essential features, such as a charging connector and battery accessed at the rear and a camera gimbal at the front. While both feel light, they are solid where it counts, particularly in the hinges and arms.
Autel includes a strap to protect the propellers and a gimbal cover, while DJI only provides a gimbal cover, giving Autel a slight edge in included accessories. The Autel batteries also have a 4-LED test circuit, allowing you to check their status even when they are not in the drone. DJI’s Mini series batteries only provide this information when plugged into the aircraft.
The build quality and design choices of both drones cater to portability and ease of use, with Autel offering more color options and convenient battery testing, while DJI focuses on a compact and robust design.
2. Speed and Maneuverability: Performance in the Air
Speed and maneuverability are critical for any drone, influencing its ability to capture dynamic shots and handle various flying conditions. When comparing the DJI Mini 3 Pro and Autel EVO Nano Plus, several factors come into play.
| Feature | DJI Mini 3 Pro | Autel EVO Nano Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Speed | 36mph | 33.5mph |
| Wind Resistance | Level 5 Beaufort | Level 5 Beaufort |
| Speed Modes | Cine, Normal, Sport | Smooth, Standard, Ludicrous |
Both drones are advertised to operate in up to Force 5 winds on the Beaufort scale, also known as a “Fresh Breeze.” In practice, the DJI Mini 3 Pro appears more stable in windy conditions, while the Autel EVO Nano Plus tends to dance a bit more, which may affect pilot confidence.
According to a test by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), wind tunnel testing is essential for validating drone performance in windy conditions.
The Mini 3 Pro is agile, with ascent and descent speeds of 5 m/s, providing excellent stability. While it may not consistently reach this speed when moving forward, adjusting the control settings might improve performance.
Both drones offer three different speed modes, catering to various flying scenarios. DJI labels them Cine, Normal, and Sport, while Autel uses Smooth, Standard, and Ludicrous. The lower settings are useful for capturing smooth video footage, while the highest settings disable or reduce the effectiveness of collision sensors. DJI provides a slider switch for changing speed modes on the remote, while the Autel remote has a user-definable key.
When collision sensing is enabled, both drones can navigate around obstacles. However, they tend to do so more slowly than a human pilot, as the AI throttles back to assess the situation.
3. Battery Life and Flight Time Considerations
Battery life is a crucial consideration for drone enthusiasts, directly impacting the duration of aerial operations and creative possibilities. The DJI Mini 3 Pro and Autel EVO Nano Plus offer varying battery performance, with specific features influencing the overall flight experience.
| Feature | DJI Mini 3 Pro | Mini 3 Pro Flight Battery Plus | Autel EVO Nano+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Theoretical Max Flight Time | 34 mins | 47 mins | 28 mins |
| Hovering Time | 30 mins | 40 mins | 28 mins |
| Battery Capacity | 2453mAh | 3850mAh | 2250mAh |
| Battery Weight | 80.5g | 121g | 83g |
The theoretical maximum flight time is often an overestimate, as drones are most efficient when traveling forward. Factors such as hovering, return-to-home time, tricky conditions, and aggressive piloting significantly reduce actual flight time.
In some regions, the DJI Mini 3 Pro offers an “Intelligent Battery Plus” option, extending flight times but pushing the take-off weight over 249g. In the UK and Europe, DJI does not sell this extended battery, as it would move the Mini 3 into a more regulated category due to its increased weight potential.
According to FAA regulations, drone pilots must maintain a visual line of sight, meaning they should not rely solely on extended battery life to fly beyond safe distances.
With the standard battery, both the DJI Mini 3 Pro and Autel EVO Nano Plus provide approximately 24 minutes of useful flight time in decent weather conditions. The Mini 3 Pro might offer a couple of minutes more. However, Autel batteries have the convenience of built-in testers, allowing you to check battery levels without plugging them into the drone.
4. Gimbal and Camera Capabilities: Image Quality Showdown
The gimbal and camera are pivotal components of any drone, directly influencing the quality and stability of aerial footage. The DJI Mini 3 Pro and Autel EVO Nano Plus each boast unique features in this regard, catering to different creative needs.
| Feature | DJI Mini 3 Pro | Autel EVO Nano Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Axis | 3 (pitch, roll, yaw) | 3 (pitch, roll, yaw) |
| Tilt | -135˚ to 80˚ | -125˚ to 35˚ |
| Roll | -135˚ to 45˚ | -33˚ to 34˚ |
| Pan | -30˚ to 30˚ | -25˚ to 25˚ |
The DJI Mini 3 Pro has a crucial advantage on the roll axis: the ability to rotate the camera 90˚ to portrait mode. This is a significant benefit for social media content creators, as the Autel Nano + requires images to be cropped, resulting in a loss of definition. While the Nano + has a ‘Portrait’ mode, it captures stills or video in this format at the expense of pixel resolution.
According to a study by the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS), gimbal stability directly correlates with the precision of aerial mapping and surveying.
The extra room around the DJI gimbal enhances its ability to compensate for roll, pitch, and yaw. The EVO Nano’s gimbal is mounted on rubber dampers and shielded from above, making it more susceptible to reaching its limits during aggressive flying compared to the Mini 3 Pro. While the Mini 3 Pro’s ability to “look up” (higher positive tilt range) may not always be necessary, it provides added flexibility.
Most of the time, unless you require portrait shots, the differences between the two drones are not as significant as they may seem.
5. Controller and Range: Connectivity and Control
The controller and range of a drone significantly impact the user experience, determining how far and how reliably you can fly. The DJI Mini 3 Pro and Autel EVO Nano Plus offer different technologies and features in this regard.
| Feature | DJI Mini 3 Pro | Autel EVO Nano Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | DJI O3 | Autel Skylink |
| Range – FCC (USA) | 12km | 10km |
| Range – CE (UK, EU) | 6km | 6km |
| Live View Quality | 1080p/30fps | 2.7k/30fps |
When it comes to communication technology, there is little practical difference between these drones. The legal limit for drone operation is typically far less than their maximum range. In the UK, for example, the legal limit is 0.5km.
The Autel EVO Nano Plus has an edge in live view video quality, streaming at 2.7K when the signal quality permits, surpassing the DJI Mini 3 Pro’s 1080P. While some may view this as a minor advantage, older drones with 720P transmission demonstrate that even lower resolutions can suffice.
The controller itself presents a more interesting comparison. The Nano Plus features Autel’s newer, comfortable gamepad-shaped controller. DJI offers both their standard RC-N1 controller, which is chunkier but effective, and a new controller with a built-in 700-nit display. The latter adds to the price but offers convenience, although the display is not as bright as an iPhone.
Mounting a phone on the Autel controller may seem less sophisticated than the DJI setup, but it is slightly lighter. DJI includes a handy holder for leads and control sticks in their RC-N1, while Autel relies on users to keep track of these small components.
The DJI controller also has a longer battery life, even when connected to a phone and sharing power. This is only a significant factor if you have more than six batteries for your drone. Overall, DJI wins by offering more choices, particularly the new DJI RC. However, if you are comfortable using your phone, there is not a significant difference.
6. Still Photos: Capturing Aerial Images
When it comes to capturing aerial images, both the DJI Mini 3 Pro and Autel EVO Nano Plus offer impressive capabilities. Key features such as resolution, sensor size, and ISO range play a crucial role in the quality of still photos.
| Feature | DJI Mini 3 Pro | Autel EVO Nano Plus |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 48 MP | 50 MP |
| Sensor Size | 1 / 1.3 inch | 1/1.28 inch |
| ISO Range | 100-6400 | 100-6400 |
| Field of View (FOV) | 82.1˚ | 85˚ |
| Max Aperture | ƒ/1.7 | ƒ/1.9 |
| Formats | JPEG / DNG (RAW) | JPEG / DNG (RAW) |
The Mini 3 Pro has an edge when it comes to aperture, but both drones have impressive cameras. The DJI shots tend to be sharper but have more noise when shooting at 48 or 50 megapixels. Both brands seem to nudge users toward 12-megapixel shooting. On the DJI, the High Res is a separate mode with some features unavailable, while on the Nano+ you can only capture JPEG at the full 9192×6144 pixels.
Autel and DJI have strikingly different algorithmic approaches. The DJI seems to let more unprocessed information through, resulting in softer edges and more noise, with greens and blue skies getting a boost. Autel, on the other hand, softens out much of the digital noise while applying a stronger sharpening effect to edges and less picture-postcard saturation. As a result, the Autel images look crisper when viewed at a sensible size, but a very close crop can look unnatural.
According to a report by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), high-resolution aerial imagery is crucial for environmental monitoring and disaster assessment.
Both drones allow manual modes, though Autel’s terminology—a shutter priority option—feels a little more welcoming to photographers. Bracketing and interval shooting are available on both, while the Nano+ also has an ‘HDR Imaging’ function (but working only at 3840×2160 it seems more like a ‘frame from video mode’). Both drones also have essentially the same panoramas available.
Mini 3 – unedited 4032 x 3032 pixel JPEG showcases excellent dynamic range.
Autel Evo Nano Plus 4096 x 3072 pixel JPEG manages to present sharp detail and pleasing tones in evening light.
7. Video Capabilities: Shooting Aerial Videos
The video capabilities of a drone are essential for capturing dynamic aerial footage. When comparing the DJI Mini 3 Pro and Autel EVO Nano Plus, several factors come into play.
| Feature | DJI Mini 3 Pro | Autel EVO Nano+ |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 4K/60fps | 4K/30fps |
| Slow Motion | 1080P/120fps | – |
| Bitrate | 150mbps | 100 Mbps |
| Digital Zoom at 4K | 2x | 2x |
| Digital Zoom at 1080P | 4x | 16x |
Here, the spec sheet would seem to favor the Mini 3 Pro, but shooting at 4K60fps surrenders the HDR effect of the drone’s dual-native ISO, so in practice, you’ll likely prefer to shoot in the 4K/30fps mode on both drones.
DJI offers a flat color profile, D-Cinelike, while the Autel Nano Plus has Log, so those who prefer to grade their own video will be happy either way. Neither drone, sadly, can provide an unflattened preview image to shoot with.
When you look at the video taken from each drone, you’ll see they have slightly different approaches to their processing; the Nano+’s video looks sharper owing to more aggressive software processing, which looks good when viewed normally but doesn’t stand up to close inspection (you wouldn’t want to crop on it too far in editing). Autel does offer up to 16x digital zoom compared to DJI’s 4x, but arguably that’s just self-restraint.
8. Software Features: Smart Functionality
The software features of a drone enhance its usability and provide advanced functionalities, making aerial photography and videography more accessible. Both the DJI Mini 3 Pro and Autel EVO Nano Plus offer a range of intelligent features, but with some differences.
AI subject tracking is a highlight, where the drone plots its own path to keep the subject in camera while avoiding obstacles. Both drones are capable of this, and both can avoid obstacles, to an extent. The Nano’s Dynamic Track software is, however, still in beta and we’ve seen that it prefers following a subject from behind, while DJI’s tracking tools are already in place and can also orbit a moving subject or and track from the side. Admittedly the last two will highlight the lack of collision sensors on the side in an environment with obstacles (like trees), but in an open space they’re great features to have.
Both drone offer Hyperlapse functionality, and both also feature pre-programmed ‘QuickShots’ (automatic flight paths to capture a shareable video). The Nano has four, while DJI offer six, though orbit and rocket are there for both brands (probably the most useful). This might sound like a win for DJI, but Autel’s Quickshots can be captured at 4K, while the DJI drone drops back to 1080p.
The Nano+ has an interesting extra feature; the ability to record from your phone’s microphone to the video you’re capturing – effectively to narrate (or keep audio notes). For some, it could be very useful. It also has an infuriating voice alert, which is much less handy!
The Mini 3 Pro can track a subject as a POI and orbit the subject at the same time. The only risk (compared to the Mavic 3) is the drone lacks side-facing collision sensors.
The Autel Nano Plus Portrait function offers use of the tracking feature to follow a moving subject, turning the drone as needed.
9. Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Drone for Your Needs
(Image credit: Adam Juniper/Digital Camera World)
Deciding between the DJI Mini 3 Pro and Autel EVO Nano Plus requires careful consideration of your specific needs and preferences.
People often lean toward the brand they’re most familiar with. DJI has a larger user base, which influences perceptions of its default color, sharpening, and control feel.
Autel’s photographic approach often seems more engaging, with sharpening that looks great at normal resolution. However, photographers who prefer post-processing will find DJI offers more possibilities with its high-res .dng option.
In terms of video, the DJI slightly edges things thanks to having the option of 60fps at 4K, and it feels more comfortable in windy conditions. The wider gimbal movement meant we didn’t hit the limits in the same way the Nano+ can, and we felt there was just a bit more power to draw on, whether flying in the high-speed mode or standard.
Despite this being a very close battle, the extra battery time, slightly more reliable airframe (especially in windy conditions) and the variety of controller choice all add up to make this a victory for the DJI Mini 3 Pro.
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the primary difference between the Autel EVO Nano Plus and the DJI Mini 3 Pro?
The DJI Mini 3 Pro excels in video capabilities with 4K/60fps, while the Autel EVO Nano Plus offers a sharper image processing style for stills. The Mini 3 Pro also has a more stable airframe in windy conditions.
2. Which drone has better obstacle avoidance?
Both drones have front, back, and downward obstacle avoidance. However, DJI’s system is more mature and reliable, while Autel’s Dynamic Track software is still in beta.
3. Can both drones shoot in portrait mode?
The DJI Mini 3 Pro can physically rotate its camera for true portrait mode, whereas the Autel EVO Nano Plus crops the image to simulate portrait mode, reducing resolution.
4. Which drone has a longer flight time?
The DJI Mini 3 Pro has a slightly longer flight time of around 34 minutes with the standard battery, compared to the Autel EVO Nano Plus with 28 minutes.
5. Which drone has a better controller?
DJI offers more controller options, including one with a built-in screen. Autel’s controller is comfortable and lighter but requires a smartphone.
6. What are the advantages of the Autel EVO Nano Plus?
The Autel EVO Nano Plus offers a sharper image processing style, built-in battery testers, and the ability to record audio from your phone’s microphone during video capture.
7. Which drone is better for beginners?
Both drones are suitable for beginners, but the DJI Mini 3 Pro’s more mature software and stable performance in windy conditions make it a slightly better choice.
8. Can I fly both drones in windy conditions?
Both drones are rated to handle up to Force 5 winds on the Beaufort scale, but the DJI Mini 3 Pro feels more stable in such conditions.
9. Which drone offers better value for money?
The DJI Mini 3 Pro offers better value due to its superior video capabilities, more reliable performance, and wider range of features, though pricing can vary.
10. Where can I buy the DJI Mini 3 Pro and Autel EVO Nano Plus?
You can purchase both drones at CARDIAGTECH.NET, where we offer expert advice and support to help you make the best choice for your needs.Are you ready to elevate your aerial photography and videography? At CARDIAGTECH.NET, we offer a wide range of drone solutions and expert advice to help you make the best choice. Don’t let outdated tools hold you back. Contact us today at +1 (641) 206-8880 or visit our website CARDIAGTECH.NET for a personalized consultation. Our address is 276 Reock St, City of Orange, NJ 07050, United States. Let us help you take your skills to new heights with our state-of-the-art diagnostic tools and equipment.
