Last week, most of the drone related publications were invaded with the leaked images of the DJI Spark drone.
DJI’s new drone is also called by the enthusiasts the “Mavic Mini”.
With Yuneec Breeze and other compact portable drones sold under $500, this new DJI quadcopter has to be priced at a similar level in order for them to cover this market segment too. Frankly, I’m very exited about this new model because is the first DJI drone close to my budget (for such a gadget).
The Spark’s brushless motors are very similar to Mavic’s ones but they are slightly smaller.
Unfortunately, regarding the transmitter and control range there is nothing leaked out, yet. Either DJI is keeping this part secret or the Spark will be controlled through a smartphone APP (which means short flight range).
Comparison chart between the DJI Spark and DJI Mavic
| Model Name | DJI Spark / DJI MM1A | DJI Mavic |
| Foldable design | No | Yes |
| Remote controller | Yes (optional) | Yes |
| Flight battery | 3s 1480mAh | 3s 3830mAh |
| Camera gimbal | 2-axis | 3-axis |
| Camera resolution | 1920×1080@30p | UHD 4K@30fps (3840 x 2160) |
| Real-time image transmission | HD 720P | HD 720P |
| Max flight time | Up to 16 minutes | Up to 12 minutes |
| Intelligent flight mode | Yes (QuickShot, ActiveTrack, TapFly and Gesture) | Yes |
| Obstacle avoidance and Positioning system | 3D sensing system (0.2 – 5m) | Infrared positioning sensors |
| Brushless motors | Yes | Yes |
| Dimensions | 143mm (L) x 143mm (W) x 55mm (H) | 83mm x 83mm x 198mm (folded) |
The table above is not final and it will be was updated today (24.05.2017) after DJI has made the official announcement of their Spark drone. Note: only the “Combo” package contain a physical remote controller.
DJI Spark gimbal test and LED lights
After the official announcement and the complete list of features, I can say that the Spark is a completely different concept comparted to the Mavic Pro. The Spark is more a toy (OK, a expensive one) than a professional long range cruising drone.
The video/photo capability of the Spark is worse than the Mavic Pro has. While Mavic allows to record videos with UHD (4K) resolution the Spark can record only FHD (1080p) videos.
Last update on 24.05.2107
Meet Spark, a mini drone that features all of DJI’s signature technologies, allowing you to seize the moment whenever you feel inspired. With intelligent flight control options, a mechanical gimbal, and a camera with incredible image quality, Spark empowers you to push your creative boundaries.
Check out my new Dji Spark test footage!
Just receive it! It’s not a joke that the DJI Spark is as small as a can of Cola! But still love more my Mavic Pro, it has much more power and flight range.
Let’s be fair, for 500 euro you can’t expect same features as the mavic has. I will say pass to this drone
Just saw a review of the Spark. This little thing is amazing!
I specially like the gesture control.
Today, May 24, DJI will fully reveal the Spark drone!
Their moto is: “SEIZE THE MOMENT”
Way too little real information, way too much marketing for me to trust these new high-tech drones for truly professional applications.
This DJI Spark will be good for all but truly for nothing….
DJI website now offering several refurbished Drone, all are tax included and Free shipping from their own website. Probably this way you will find the DJI Spark for its half price.
It will have carbon or plastic frame???
Cool, thanks for your updated information about the Spark drone! The drones from DJI are the most reliable over all drone brand!
I still consider that the DJI Mavic Pro is the best portable quadcopter with 4K camera, which is agreed from many reviewers!
Hopefully the DJI Spark will be at least good as its predecessor.