When DJI announced the Air 3S, many wondered if it was just a minor upgrade to the Air 3 or if there were new features worth getting excited about. At first glance, the changes might seem incremental, but after testing it, I’ve discovered some exciting updates that will especially appeal to creators, solo adventurers, and drone enthusiasts.
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the new features, what’s improved, and why the Air 3S might just be the perfect drone for your next adventure.
1. The Camera: A Big Upgrade
One of the standout features of the DJI Air 3S is its upgraded camera. The wide-angle camera now has a 1-inch sensor, which is a significant step up from the Air 3’s 1/1.3-inch sensor. This means better image quality, especially in low light, thanks to the f/1.8 aperture. The telephoto camera remains the same as the Air 3, with a 1/1.3-inch sensor and a 70mm focal length, but it’s still a fantastic tool for getting those cinematic close-up shots.
For creators, this upgraded wide-angle camera is a game-changer, allowing for improved photography and video quality, particularly when shooting in challenging lighting conditions.
2. Slow Motion at 4K 120fps
If slow motion is your thing, you’re in luck. The Air 3S now offers 120 frames per second (fps) in 4K resolution—an improvement over the Air 3’s 100fps. While this might not seem like a massive jump, it allows for even smoother slow-motion shots, which is perfect for action-packed scenes or capturing subtle details.
I tested this feature in the field, and the results were impressive. Whether you’re shooting fast-moving subjects or creating dramatic slow-motion effects, the 4K 120fps option delivers stunning visuals.
3. Dynamic Range and D-Log
Another major enhancement with the Air 3S is the dynamic range, offering up to 14 stops. The drone also supports 10-bit 4:2:0 footage in both normal and D-Log modes. If you’re into color grading, the D-Log setting is a must-try. It allows for greater flexibility in post-production, enabling you to tweak the colors and tones of your footage to perfection.
I did a quick comparison between normal mode and D-Log while flying the drone, and the difference was noticeable. D-Log offers more latitude for creative control, making it ideal for professionals and those looking to elevate their visual storytelling.
4. ISO Range and Low-Light Capabilities
With an increased ISO range of up to 3200, compared to 1600 on the Air 3, the Air 3S excels in low-light environments. Paired with the wider f/1.8 aperture on the main camera, this drone is perfect for shooting during golden hour, nighttime, or in dimly lit environments.
For solo creators or those who often shoot in varying lighting conditions, this improvement is a major plus. You can now capture clean, detailed footage even when the sun goes down.
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5. New Tracking Features
Tracking has always been a key feature for DJI drones, and the Air 3S adds a new level of automation to this. The upgraded tracking system includes an “Auto” mode, where the drone selects the best movements and angles for the scene, whether you’re walking, running, or biking through rugged terrain.
I tested the Auto-tracking feature while mountain biking, and it performed well, following me around twists and turns and through tall plants. The drone automatically chose the best angles and even performed cinematic maneuvers like a helix, all without any input from me. For creators who often film themselves without a second camera operator, this feature can save time and deliver professional-looking shots effortlessly.
6. Enhanced Safety Features and Lidar
DJI has also added a Lidar sensor to the Air 3S, which improves obstacle detection and avoidance, particularly in low-light conditions. This comes in handy when the drone is on its way back home or navigating through tight spots. Combined with the enhanced vision assist, the Air 3S gives you a clearer idea of what’s around the drone, offering an extra layer of security when flying.
There’s also an advanced “Return to Home” feature that uses Lidar and obstacle avoidance to find the safest and most efficient path back. In my tests, the drone landed almost exactly where it took off, showcasing just how precise the new technology is.
7. Battery Life: Longer Flights, More Freedom
With a flight time of up to 45 minutes in optimal conditions, the Air 3S gives you more freedom to capture content without worrying about constantly swapping batteries. Even after flying for around 20 minutes, my drone still had nearly half of its battery life left. For those who shoot for extended periods or work in remote locations, the extended battery life is a huge benefit.
8. Price and Who This Drone Is For
The DJI Air 3S is priced at $999, which is the same as the Air 3. However, the improvements—especially the upgraded camera, low-light performance, and tracking features—make it a compelling choice for creators who want more out of their drone. If you’re deciding between the Air 3 and the Air 3S, the latter is probably the better choice if you’re looking for more advanced features and image quality.
For those upgrading from older or smaller drones, the Air 3S is a significant leap forward. Its combination of a 1-inch sensor, improved tracking, and enhanced safety features makes it an ideal tool for anyone looking to capture cinematic, professional-looking footage.
How much is the DJI Air 3S?
The base DJI Air 3S (DJI RC-N3) is priced at $1,099. For those looking for more, DJI offers two Fly More Combos, priced at $1,399 and $1,599, which include additional batteries, a charging hub, and other accessories for extended flying sessions.
What is the maximum flight distance for DJI Air 3?
The next-gen O4 HD video transmission system empowers Air 3 with dramatically enhanced transmission performance. It provides a max range of 20 km with increased stability, and a 1080p/60fps max-quality live feed to ensure ultra-smooth viewing and operating.
Is the DJI Air 3 waterproof?
No. The DJI Air 3 is not waterproof. Therefore, its recommend that you pay attention to the flying environment and do not fly in rain, snow, or foggy weather to avoid water damage to the device.
Final Thoughts
While the DJI Air 3S might not seem like a revolutionary update at first glance, its upgraded features make it a fantastic option for creators, especially those who work solo. Whether you’re filming in low light, shooting action-packed sequences in slow motion, or relying on the drone’s intelligent tracking features, the Air 3S delivers a reliable and high-quality experience.
If you have any questions or want to see more in-depth testing of specific features, drop a comment below, and I’ll be happy to follow up with more content. Also, if you’re in real estate, here is a blog on how to get started with real estate drone photography.
