DJI Mavic 4 Pro: 5 Reasons to Think Twice Before Purchasing This Camera Drone
Today, we’ll explore five aspects that might make you reconsider buying the new DJI Mavic 4 Pro camera drone. While I have to say that I regard this drone as exceptional—potentially the finest foldable model DJI has ever created—there are certain issues worth discussing. If you’re new to its features, don’t miss my detailed review video where I provide cinematic 4K footage and share my initial experiences.
1. Challenges with Pricing and Availability
The biggest concern surrounding the Mavic 4 Pro is its pricing and unavailability in the U.S., the primary market for such drones. It’s frustrating, especially since it is recognized as DJI’s premier foldable drone. Interestingly, my DJI contact mentioned that purchasing it in Mexico is cheaper than buying it in the U.S., largely due to high tariffs that inflate prices compared to similar models like the Mavic 3 Pro. While the listed price isn’t the sole issue, additional costs can raise the overall amount significantly. Always check local retailers but be cautious of inflated prices.
2. Limitations of the Infinity Gimbal
The Infinity Gimbal is a standout feature, yet it has its downsides. Concerns about missing out on unique rotational shots may not be necessary; its novelty tends to diminish quickly. Although it impresses with its vertical capabilities and provides a first for the Mavic series, its vertical rotation is limited—especially when using telephoto lenses, which offer a narrow -10 to +10-degree range. This could be disappointing if you frequently shoot vertical content.
3. Inconsistent Camera Performance
The camera enhancements in the medium telephoto and telephoto lens areas are notable; however, I’ve observed some inconsistencies in performance. At times, footage can appear soft or unclear, whereas at other times it is remarkably sharp. This discrepancy might stem from a software issue that could be solved through firmware updates. This concern can be particularly noticeable during detailed shots involving foliage or distant landscapes.
4. Marginal Upgrades for Photographers
If you are considering upgrading from the Mavic 3 Pro primarily for photography, the enhancements in the Mavic 4 Pro may not justify the costs. The Drones offers 25-megapixel images (theoretically up to 100 megapixels through upscaling), compared to the Mavic 3 Pro’s 20-megapixel shots. However, the increase in sharpness and clarity isn’t significant enough to be compelling for stills. The jump in video capabilities is substantial, but for photography, the upgrade may lack that enticing factor.
5. Flaws in Remote Control and Drone Design
The RC Pro 2 remote is one of the best I’ve used, featuring a bright 2,000-nit peak screen. Yet, it has some issues; the screen can easily unfold, which, while convenient, can lead to unintentional opening and potential drop risks. The screen is vulnerable to scratches due to the lack of a protector, especially when packed in a bag. Furthermore, the antennas can make the remote unstable on uneven surfaces, posing additional risks.
Some minor design flaws in the drone itself can also be troubling during usage. For example, occasionally the drone powers on when its last arm is folded after shutdown—a bug I have encountered multiple times. Additionally, the new arm design complicates battery removal as you often need to partially unfold the drone.
Final Thoughts on the DJI Mavic 4 Pro
Do these issues deter me from the Mavic 4 Pro? Not at all. Even without immediate fixes, I consider it a remarkable piece of engineering. I encourage potential buyers to watch various reviews, including mine, and form their own judgments. The capabilities of this drone are unmatched in its category, earning my strong endorsement. The points I’ve made here are simply observations based on my experience that may influence your decision slightly, but they don’t overshadow its overall excellence.
Check out my playlist for more Mavic 4 Pro content. If you’re considering a purchase, use the affiliate link from DJI’s website; it costs you nothing extra and supports my work.
Stay safe and keep flying! See you soon.
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