If you are looking for the best drone under 250 grams, these two drones are the most versatile ones in their weight segment. But which quadcopter is the best bang for your buck? Hope that our Autel EVO Nano+ versus DJI MINI 2 comparison article will give you the right answer!
The most important advantage of the Autel EVO Nano series over the DJI MINI series is the obstacle avoidance system. Despite that both drones weigh just 249g, Autel has managed to squeeze in an advanced three-way collision avoidance system in their new EVO Nano series.
Autel Robotics EVO Nano Plus versus DJI Mavic MINI 2
I compared the most important specs of these two sub 250g drones in the table below. I highlighted blue where the DJI MINI 2 excels and red where the EVO Nano+ wins.
| DJI MINI 2 | Autel EVO Nano+ | |
| Size | 138×81×58mm | 142×94×55mm |
| Weight | 249 grams | 249 grams |
| Gimbal | 3-axis | 3-axis |
| Image sensor | 1/2.3″ | 1/1.28″ |
| Megapixel | 12MP | 50MP |
| Aperture | f2.8 | f1.9 |
| Max Video resolution | 4K@30fps | 4K@30fps |
| Max bit rate | 100Mbps | 100Mbps |
| Photo mode | RAW + JPG | DNG + JPG |
| HDR | NO | Yes |
| Digital Zoom | 4x | 16x |
| FPV | Up to 1080p | Up to 2.7k |
| Communication | OcuSync 2.0 | SkyLink |
| Range | 10KM FCC or 6KM CE | 10KM |
| Wind resistance | Level 5 | Level 5 |
| Max flight speed | 16m/s | 15m/s |
| Smart flight modes | Drone, Helix, Rocket, Circle, Boomerang | Rocket, Fade Away, Orbit, Flick |
| Obstacle avoidance | No | Yes, Front/Back/Down |
| Internal Memory | No | No |
| Battery | 2s/2250mAh | 2s/2250mAh |
| Flight time | 31 minutes | 28 minutes |
| FAA registration | No | No |
| Color options | White | White, Gray, Orange, or Red |
| Extended warranty | Yes, DJI Care refresh | Yes, Autel Robotics Care |
| Release year | 2020 | 2021/2022 |
| Price (standard/combo) | $449/599 – Order from DJI | $799/$949 – Order from RCGoing |
Camera
Both drones are equipped with a 4K@30fps camera installed on a 3-axis gimbal that promises to capture stunning videos. While the MINI 2 has a 1/2.3″ CMOS sensor, the Nano Plus has a 1/1.28″ one. The larger image sensor usually means better low light performance. Another important difference between these drones is the photo resolution. The 50MP image resolution of the Autel Nano+ is over quadruple the resolution of the DJI Mini 2’s 12MP resolution.
Similar to DJI’s QuickShoot creative video modes, the Autel EVO Nano series also features a wide set of intelligent flight modes such as Rocket, Fade Away, Orbit, and Flick.
Price
When I consider purchasing a new drone, probably the most important thing to consider is its price. Everything should start with your budget, as the best drone for you is the drone you can afford.
While the MINI 2 is priced at $449, the EVO Nano+ for $799. Both DJI and Autel Robotics have their own ‘Fly more combo‘ respectively ‘Premium bundle‘ deals for those looking for extended flight time and additional accessories.
When you invest about 500 bucks into a flying machine, it is recommended to consider some insurance. For one year of DJI Care Refresh, you will need to pay $49, and one year of Autel Robotics Care will cost you $79. This is about 10% of the standard kit in the case of both drones.
Autel EVO Nano Plus vs DJI MINI 2: Conclusions
Whichever of these two drones you choose, you will make a great deal. Both come with a 4K@30fps camera and weighs less than 250g (.55lbs), allowing you to fly legally in most countries without special registration.
While the MINI 2 comes with a more friendly price tag, the ZINO MINI Pro packs a lot more features. You will need to decide whether you need a more affordable drone or one with top specifications.
A friend of mine has a Mini 2. I flew it briefly, was kinda hooked, went home, and ordered an Autel Nano Plus. I have an interest in photography and I wanted the best camera in this weight class. The Autel is stable and easy to fly just like the DJI, but unfortunately, Active Tracking is still not active.
For me it is simple: If you’re just starting out into aerial photography or just want a hobby, get a Mini 2. Get an Autel Nano+ if you want advanced features and an obstacle avoidance system.
I prefer DJI drones against Autels. My MINI2 is a trustful flying machine. All the features work out of the box and to be honest who needs OA if you fly responsibly…
However, the Autel Sky app does still have one or two hiccups that will doubtless be sorted in future firmware updates. Thankfully I’ve experienced no technical issues when the bird is actually in the air. Autel Evo Nano vs DJI Mini 2 and DJI Mavic Air 2: autonomous flight modes All modern camera drones come with a selection of autonomous flight features that help the user pull off cinematic shots without actually doing anything.
Autel drones doesn’t have NFZ (no fly zones), so you will be able to fly where DJI drones are grounded. Of course at your own risk!