DJI's New Mini 4K Drone Doesn't Require a License and Is Just $299

DJI's newest drone, the DJI Mini 4K, costs just $299 and weighs less than 249 grams, ensuring it doesn't require FAA registration. It promises to be among the most compelling and affordable entries into drone photos and videos.

It has been a busy spring for DJI. The company launched the Dock 2, a "drone in a box" system in March, and a new power supply earlier this month. The latest DJI Mini 4K is undoubtedly the most exciting of the company's new releases for the average consumer. The company is also facing increased scrutiny, but the new products keep on coming nonetheless.

Capable of shooting 4K video at up to 30 frames per second and 2.7K/60p footage, the DJI Mini 4K offers many of the basic features and performance that a first-time drone buyer may want, including a three-axis gimbal, an extensive range, and solid battery life. It also includes 2x digital zoom, even at 4K resolution, that helps users get closer to their subject from the skies.

Compared to the DJI Mini 4 Pro, another similarly lightweight drone PetaPixel reviewed last November, the new Mini 4K lacks the 4K/60p HDR video recording and 20-kilometer FHD transmission range of its more expensive sibling. Still, it shares the Mini 4 Pro's compact and lightweight form factor.

For prospective drone pilots, at least in the United States, the drone's weight is a big deal. Because of its size and sub-250-gram weight, the Mini 4K doesn't have to be registered with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) or comply with the federal government's Remote ID rule, so long as the drone is flown for recreational purposes in permissible airspace.

The DJI Mini 4K can reach altitudes of 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) and offers a range of up to 10 kilometers (6.2 miles). Of course, users should always maintain a line of sight on their drone for safety reasons.

The drone has a brushless motor and can reach up to 16 meters per second. It also includes level-5 wind resistance, promising stable footage even in breezy conditions.

The new drone can fly for up to 31 minutes with its out-of-the-box battery solution, although it can fly for over an hour and a half with DJI's $450 Fly More bundle. The Fly More combo for the DJI Mini 4 Pro is $1,100, for reference.

DJI knows that many Mini 4K buyers may be purchasing their first drone, so the quadcopter has everything a beginner needs to get up and running, including one-tap takeoff and landing, return-to-home functionality, pre-programmed flight modes, and step-by-step instructions in the companion app.

The drone features QuickShot modes like Helix, Dronie, Rocket, Circle, Boomerang, and Panorama, helping new pilots achieve dynamic footage and exciting photos, even if they're not experienced drone fliers.

"The DJI Mini 4K drone is a gateway to capturing the world from new, breathtaking perspectives," explains DJI. "Whether you're just starting your aerial photography journey or looking to elevate your creative potential, the DJI Mini 4K is designed to empower your vision and bring unparalleled creativity to your flights."

The DJI Mini 4K is available to purchase now for $299.

Image credits: DJI