Unleashing the Potential
These are the kind of shots that I wouldn’t dare try and film with a traditional drone. The DJI Avata 2 is easily the coolest drone I’ve flown in a long time, but was it impressive enough to make me want to switch and sell all my other drones? Let’s find out. It’s fast, it’s acrobatic, and it actually makes you feel like you’re soaring. From chasing rally cars, making construction sites and trains my playground, to sweeping through obstacles, the Avata 2 has opened my eyes to what is possible with a drone, and I haven’t even scratched the surface of what this thing can do.
Pushing the Boundaries
The Avata 2 is pretty much perfect for exploring abandoned structures. I’ve been flying drones ever since the original Mavic in 2018, and each year their cameras get better, their flight time increases, and yet somehow they manage to also get smaller and smarter. But, for the most part, unchanged is how they fly, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. One of the things that makes these drones so special is how smooth and easy they are to operate, especially for beginners. But, at the same time, at least for me, that original excitement that you got with your first takeoff and flight has kind of worn off. Even 30 seconds into my first flight with the Avata 2, I quickly realized I’ve been missing out on an entirely different world of drones.
A New Era of Flying Experience
With the DJI Avata 2 being my first FPV drone, it was unlike anything that I’ve flown for the past 6 years. The agility, speed, and immersive experience of flying in first-person view took my drone piloting skills to a whole new level. Maneuvering through tight spaces, performing jaw-dropping stunts, and capturing dynamic footage from unique perspectives became a thrilling adventure with the Avata 2.
Getting Started
I knew it wasn’t going to be as easy as pulling it out of the box, turning it on and starting to fly right away, but at the same time I wanted to see what that fresh perspective would be like. So I kept tutorials to a minimum and really just followed along with the built-in tutorials on the headset.
The Bundle Options
I’m using the DJI Avata 2 Fly More Battery Combo, which goes for $1,199. This bundle includes the drone, three batteries, and a few other essentials. If you’re considering upgrading from the original Avada or already own a compatible RC controller and DJI goggles, you can save some money and just get the drone itself for $489.
Accessories
As far as other accessories, I’m also trying out the FPV RC controller, which on its own goes for $199. This feels like a video game as I’m going through these parts here, it’s absolutely unlike anything I’ve done before instantly.
Flight Experience
For me, the biggest thing switching to the Avada from your Mavic series drones is just how nimble this little thing is. It really feels like the drone is actually carving, following, diving into those movements. Unlike a traditional drone, which pretty much has the dimensions of just going up, down, left, and right, it doesn’t actually turn into it.
Camera and Performance
The DJI Avata 2 has a 12-megapixel 1 over 1.3-inch sensor. It can shoot 4K up to 60 frames per second, and it has a max flight time of about 23 minutes, though that gets quickly cut down the harder you push it.
Advanced Obstacle Avoidance Sensors
The biggest thing I found myself quickly missing after switching to the DJI Avata 2 from my DJI Mavic Mini 3 Pro was its advanced obstacle avoidance sensors. The Avata 2 not only has sensors on its front but also on its back, making it easier to navigate around obstacles. However, I found myself wishing it had sensors on the sides as well, as it can be challenging to gauge clearance when flying in tight spaces.
Manual Mode Speed
The DJI Avata 2 boasts a top speed of 60 MPH in manual mode. This incredible speed allows for dynamic and fast-paced shots that would not be possible with other drones. Flying in manual mode with the Avata 2 unlocks a whole new level of creativity and filmmaking possibilities.
Automated Features
While the DJI Avata 2 excels in manual mode, it also comes equipped with advanced automated features such as tracking and obstacle warnings. These features provide an extra layer of safety and convenience, especially when flying in challenging environments. The Avata 2 strikes a perfect balance between manual control and automated assistance, making it versatile for a wide range of filmmaking scenarios.
Rewarding Filmmaking
Mastering the DJI Avata 2 requires time and dedication, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Capturing shots that would have been impossible with a traditional drone is incredibly satisfying and opens up new possibilities for creative filmmaking. Despite the learning curve, the sense of achievement that comes with getting the perfect shot with the Avata 2 is unparalleled.
Immersive Experience
It really does feel like you’re floating. Oh, my God, this is so cool! Hello, cows, there’s a white one and a black one. They don’t even mind the ability to have a live view of what I’m seeing right in my goggles really allows me to explore the area a lot more.
Controller Extension
The controller feels like an extension of me now as opposed to me using it as a tool. I really do feel like I am going through the building. I catch myself looking up all the time as though I’m physically moving up there.
Innovative Design
Even the goggles have their set of fans because this thing gets hot, but look at all that sweat. There’s fewer complaints coming from other drones. I’m a lot more used to using its traditional RC controller, which has the two thumb sticks. They are a lot easier to learn with this and for the most part, I actually like flying with this.
Motion Control
For most people, you’re probably going to be using what I like to call its motion, applause controller. I’m starting to feel like I’m actually going through things now a lot better. So that’s the benefit here, takes a little bit of getting used to. But I could see why some people argue that this is the more intuitive controller, especially for first-time drone users.
The Enhanced Control with DJI Avatar 2
The DJI Avatar 2 drone offers a more intuitive and user-friendly control experience compared to other drones. The pass-through capabilities allow for a seamless transition between viewing perspectives, making it easier to maintain real-line of sight while capturing stunning shots.
Increase Your Flight Time with Extra Batteries
Unlike the m mini series, the DJI Avatar 2 drones tend to run through batteries quickly, especially if you’re fully immersed in the flying experience. To avoid interruptions and maximize your flight time, it is recommended to invest in additional batteries. The Fly More Combo, which includes two extra batteries and a charging case, is a convenient option for extended flight sessions.
Optimizing Battery Usage
When swapping out batteries during flights, the DJI Avatar 2 smartly determines the battery with the most charge level and uses the remaining charge from other batteries to top off that one. This feature ensures that you make the most out of each battery and enjoy uninterrupted flying sessions without worrying about running out of power.
Battery Life and Power Banks
When considering the DJI Avata 2, one crucial aspect to keep in mind is its battery life. Unlike other drones where you may have multiple batteries for longer flights, the Avata 2 typically requires just one battery for a full flight. However, this means being prudent with power usage, especially if you have other devices to charge. Investing in a high-capacity power bank like the Anchor Prime 20000 can ensure you have enough power for not only your drone but also your controller and goggles.
Learning Curve and Skill Level
For those new to drone flying, it’s essential to consider the learning curve associated with the DJI Avata 2. While it may be tempting to opt for a more advanced model like the Avata 2 or a similarly priced Mavic Mini 3 Pro or Mini 4 Pro, be prepared for a steeper learning curve. Mastering the Avata 2 may require more time and practice, particularly for beginners. Understanding how to navigate not only what’s directly in front of the drone but also its surroundings and potential obstacles is crucial, and it often takes a few crashes to truly grasp this concept.
The Decision-Making Process
You had those additional sensors that you get on those other drones. So in a weird dystopian world, where I can only have one drone, either the Ava 2 or the mavic Mini 3 Pro, which would I choose as fun as this is, I think, Im still probably going to stick with my mavic Mini 3 Pro just because for 90 of the flights that I do theyre a little bit more cinematic.
Potential Game Changer
I really do enjoy relying on some of those Auto tracking features. That said, if the Ia 2 – and I think this is eventually where its going to go – became more of a hybrid between what it is now and the Mini 3 or the Mini 4, I think that would be a GameChanger, because if they could introduce some of Those sensors on the side to make it a little bit more safe as well as again those Auto tracking features, then youve, basically dethroned the mini series of drones.
A New Learning Experience
In a nutshell, a really cool drone that has encouraged me to learn. New things has pushed me to try out new things, a little bit scary at first, but also super fun and rewarding. What do you think about the avat 2, if youre considering picking up a first drone? Would it be this or would it be one of those more traditional drones? Let me know in the comments.
Exploring New Horizons
Even though I’ve been flying for a number of years, this feels like a completely new experience to me, and even though I have even push this anywhere near its limits, I know there are still New Horizons.
Exploration and Learning
With the DJI Avata 2, there is a whole new world of exploration and learning to be had. While there may be a bit of a learning curve involved, the possibilities are endless. From tracking your subject to trying out new and creative shots, the Avata 2 opens up a whole new realm of possibilities for drone enthusiasts.
Tracking Your Subject
One of the most exciting features of the DJI Avata 2 is its ability to track a subject with incredible precision. Whether you are flying through or around your subject, the Avata 2 allows you to capture stunning, cinematic shots that were once only possible with expensive professional equipment.
Pushing the Boundaries
When you have the DJI Avata 2 in your hands, you are able to push the boundaries of what is possible with a drone. Whether you are trying out new flying techniques or experimenting with different shot angles, the Avata 2 empowers you to be as creative as you want to be.