DJI Neo review: big features, small price, zero hassle

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DJI’s latest drone offers affordable flying fun with smart modes and 4K quality

  • Reasons to buy
  • +One of the most affordable DJI drones
  • +Beginner-friendly autonomous flight modes
  • +Compact and lightweight construction
  • +Excellent camera performance
  • +Stable in light winds
  • Reasons to avoid
  • -Limited flight time (17-18 mins)
  • -Slow speed in autonomous modes
  • -Can struggle with fast movements
  • -Basic camera settings
  • The DJI Neo is a unique drone in DJI’s lineup for several reasons. It’s more affordable than most models, easier to control for beginners, and has an excellent camera and stabilisation. It can also take off and land in areas where standard drones can’t, which is a real bonus.
  • I found myself in an interesting situation when testing and reviewing the DJI Neo. In most cases, I compare the drones I test to DJI models; after all, DJI is the best drone company. However, on this occasion, I looked at another drone, the excellent Zero Zero HoverAir X1, for reference.
  • The two drones are similar in terms of functionality, ease of use, weight, and so on. They aren’t identical, though, and this review certainly won’t be a comparison article for DJI Neo vs HoverAir X1. Instead, I’ll try to focus on the benefits and the drawbacks of the Neo while also considering the broader drone market.
  • Specifications
  • Dimensions (L×W×H): 130 x 157 x 48.5 mm
  • Weight: 135 grams
  • Battery life (flight time): approx. 18 mins (approx. 17 mins with the Propeller Guards)
  • Range: 7 km‌
  • Max Wind Speed Resistance: 8 m/s (Level 4)
  • Built-in GPS: yes, GLONASS + GPS + Galileo + BeiDou
  • Internal storage: yes, 22 GB
  • Sensor: 1/2-inch image sensor
  • FOV: 117.6 degrees
  • Max photo resolution: 12MP
  • Max video resolution: 4K (3840×2160), 16:9, 30fps (EIS on)
  • Image stabilisation: Single-axis mechanical gimbal (tilt) supports RockSteady and HorizonBalancing
  • Connectivity: WiFi