DJI Phantom 3 or 4, the names themselves conjure images of sleek, powerful drones soaring through the sky. These are not mere toys, but sophisticated flying machines that have captivated hobbyists and professionals alike. Whether you’re a seasoned aerial photographer or a curious newcomer to the world of drones, choosing between the Phantom 3 and Phantom 4 can feel like a daunting task.
This article dives deep into the heart of these two popular models, dissecting their key features, performance capabilities, and overall user experience. Prepare to be immersed in a world of high-definition cameras, intelligent flight systems, and a captivating journey into the future of aerial photography.
The DJI Phantom 3 and Phantom 4 represent two distinct eras in the evolution of consumer drones. The Phantom 3, released in 2015, set a new standard for aerial photography, introducing features like 4K video recording and advanced flight modes.
The Phantom 4, released in 2016, built upon this foundation, introducing groundbreaking technologies like obstacle avoidance and active tracking, further blurring the lines between hobby and professional filmmaking.
DJI Phantom 3 vs. Phantom 4: A Detailed Comparison
The DJI Phantom 3 and Phantom 4 are two popular drones that have revolutionized the world of aerial photography and videography. Both models offer exceptional performance and features, making them suitable for both hobbyists and professionals. This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of the DJI Phantom 3 and Phantom 4, highlighting their key differences and similarities to help you determine which drone best suits your needs.
Target Audience
The DJI Phantom 3 and Phantom 4 cater to a diverse range of users. The Phantom 3, with its more affordable price point and user-friendly features, is ideal for hobbyists who are new to drone photography or those seeking a reliable and easy-to-use drone for recreational purposes.
In contrast, the Phantom 4, with its advanced features and professional-grade capabilities, is favored by professionals such as photographers, videographers, and filmmakers who require high-quality aerial imagery and advanced flight control.
Key Features and Capabilities
- Camera: The Phantom 3 features a 12.4-megapixel camera capable of recording 2.7K video, while the Phantom 4 boasts a 12.4-megapixel camera with 4K video recording capabilities. The Phantom 4’s camera also features a 3-axis mechanical gimbal, providing superior image stabilization compared to the Phantom 3’s 2-axis gimbal.
- Flight Time: The Phantom 3 offers an average flight time of around 25 minutes, while the Phantom 4 provides a slightly longer flight time of around 28 minutes. This difference in flight time is attributed to the Phantom 4’s more efficient battery and advanced flight control system.
- Flight Modes: Both drones offer a range of flight modes, including Beginner Mode, Position Mode, and Sport Mode. The Phantom 4, however, introduces additional advanced flight modes, such as ActiveTrack, TapFly, and Draw Mode, which enhance its capabilities for professional-level aerial photography and videography.
- Obstacle Avoidance: The Phantom 4 stands out with its advanced obstacle avoidance system, which utilizes sensors to detect obstacles in its path and automatically adjust its flight path to avoid collisions. This feature significantly enhances safety and allows for more confident and precise flight maneuvers.
- Remote Control: Both drones come with a remote control that allows for intuitive control and real-time monitoring of flight parameters. The Phantom 4’s remote control features a built-in LCD screen, providing a more immersive and convenient flight experience.
Key Features and Specifications
The DJI Phantom 3 and Phantom 4 are both popular consumer drones, each offering unique features and capabilities. Understanding the key differences in their specifications is crucial for making an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget.
Comparison of Key Features and Specifications
A comprehensive comparison of key features and specifications helps visualize the strengths and weaknesses of each model.
| Feature | Phantom 3 | Phantom 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Camera Resolution | 12.4 MP (Phantom 3 Standard and Advanced) / 12 MP (Phantom 3 Professional) | 12.4 MP |
| Video Recording Capabilities | 2.7K (Phantom 3 Standard and Advanced) / 4K (Phantom 3 Professional) | 4K at 30fps |
| Flight Time | 25 minutes (Phantom 3 Standard and Advanced) / 23 minutes (Phantom 3 Professional) | 28 minutes |
| Range | 3.1 miles (Phantom 3 Standard and Advanced) / 4.3 miles (Phantom 3 Professional) | 4.3 miles |
| Weight | 1.25 kg (Phantom 3 Standard and Advanced) / 1.28 kg (Phantom 3 Professional) | 1.38 kg |
| Price | $799 (Phantom 3 Standard) / $999 (Phantom 3 Advanced) / $1,259 (Phantom 3 Professional) | $1,399 |
Camera Resolution and Video Recording Capabilities
The camera resolution is a crucial factor for capturing high-quality images and videos. The Phantom 3 Standard and Advanced offer a 12.4 MP camera, while the Phantom 3 Professional and Phantom 4 both feature a 12 MP camera. The Phantom 3 Professional and Phantom 4 also offer 4K video recording capabilities, providing higher resolution and detail compared to the 2.7K resolution of the Phantom 3 Standard and Advanced.
Flight Time and Range
Flight time and range are important considerations for aerial photography and videography. The Phantom 3 models offer flight times ranging from 23 to 25 minutes, while the Phantom 4 boasts a longer flight time of 28 minutes. The range for both models is comparable, with the Phantom 3 Professional and Phantom 4 offering a maximum range of 4.3 miles.
Weight and Price
The Phantom 3 models are relatively lightweight, with the Phantom 3 Standard and Advanced weighing 1.25 kg and the Phantom 3 Professional weighing 1.28 kg. The Phantom 4 is slightly heavier at 1.38 kg. In terms of price, the Phantom 3 models range from $799 to $1,259, while the Phantom 4 is priced at $1,399.
Camera Performance
The Phantom 3 and Phantom 4 both offer impressive camera capabilities, but their specifications and performance differ in key areas. Understanding these differences is crucial for determining which drone best suits your photography and videography needs.
Image Quality
Image quality is influenced by various factors, including sensor size, aperture, and image processing. The Phantom 4 boasts a larger 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor compared to the Phantom 3’s 1/2.6-inch sensor. A larger sensor captures more light, resulting in improved low-light performance and greater dynamic range.
The Phantom 4 also features a wider aperture of f/2.8, allowing for better depth of field and more light to reach the sensor. The Phantom 3, on the other hand, has a smaller aperture of f/2.8.
A larger sensor size generally translates to better image quality, particularly in low-light conditions.
- Phantom 4:Offers better image quality in low-light situations due to its larger sensor and wider aperture, capturing more light and detail.
- Phantom 3:While capable of capturing decent images, it may struggle in low-light environments compared to the Phantom 4 due to its smaller sensor and narrower aperture.
Video Resolution and Frame Rate
Both the Phantom 3 and Phantom 4 offer high-resolution video recording capabilities, but the Phantom 4 provides higher frame rates for smoother video footage.
- Phantom 4:Records 4K video at 30fps and 1080p video at 120fps, allowing for slow-motion footage.
- Phantom 3:Records 2.7K video at 30fps and 1080p video at 60fps, offering good video quality but limited slow-motion options.
Image Stabilization
Image stabilization is crucial for capturing smooth and stable footage, especially when flying in windy conditions. Both drones utilize electronic image stabilization (EIS) to minimize camera shake. However, the Phantom 4’s EIS system is more advanced, providing superior stabilization.
- Phantom 4:Features a 3-axis mechanical gimbal that provides exceptional image stabilization, even in windy conditions. This allows for smooth and stable footage, even when flying at high speeds.
- Phantom 3:Utilizes a 2-axis mechanical gimbal, offering decent stabilization but less effective than the Phantom 4’s system. It may experience more shake in windy conditions.
Examples of Photographs and Videos
To illustrate the camera performance differences, consider these examples:
- Phantom 4:Images captured by the Phantom 4 exhibit excellent detail, even in low-light conditions, and showcase a wider dynamic range. The 4K video footage is remarkably smooth and stable, thanks to the advanced stabilization system.
- Phantom 3:Images captured by the Phantom 3 are generally good, but they may lack detail in low-light situations. The 2.7K video footage is smooth, but it may show more shake than the Phantom 4’s footage in windy conditions.
Flight Performance
The Phantom 3 and Phantom 4, both iconic drones from DJI, offer distinct flight performance characteristics. This section delves into the differences in speed, agility, stability, and battery life, providing a comprehensive comparison of their aerial capabilities.
Speed and Agility
The Phantom 4, with its more powerful motors and advanced flight control system, surpasses the Phantom 3 in terms of speed and agility. It boasts a maximum speed of 20 m/s (45 mph) in Sport mode, while the Phantom 3 reaches a maximum speed of 16 m/s (36 mph) in its Sport mode.
This difference in speed is noticeable during high-speed maneuvers and aggressive flying, giving the Phantom 4 a distinct edge in capturing fast-paced action or navigating tight spaces.The Phantom 4’s superior agility is further highlighted by its quicker response time to control inputs, allowing for sharper turns and more precise movements.
This is attributed to its advanced flight control system, which incorporates obstacle avoidance sensors and a more sophisticated algorithm for smoother and more responsive flight. The Phantom 3, while capable, lags slightly in these aspects due to its less advanced flight control system.
Stability
Both drones excel in stability, thanks to their three-axis gimbals and advanced flight control systems. However, the Phantom 4 demonstrates superior stability in windy conditions. Its wind resistance is higher due to its more aerodynamic design and the presence of obstacle avoidance sensors, which actively adjust the flight path to counter wind gusts.
The Phantom 3, while still stable, may exhibit slight swaying or drifting in stronger winds.
Battery Life and Flight Time
Battery life and flight time are crucial aspects of drone operation, dictating the duration of each flight and the overall user experience. The Phantom 3 series, depending on the model, offers a flight time of around 25 minutes, while the Phantom 4 boasts a slightly longer flight time of around 30 minutes.
This difference is attributed to the Phantom 4’s more efficient motors and battery management system.The extended flight time of the Phantom 4 allows for longer filming sessions and exploration without needing frequent battery swaps, enhancing the overall user experience. The Phantom 3, with its shorter flight time, necessitates more frequent battery changes, which can interrupt the flow of filming or exploration.
Flight Control Systems and Features
The Phantom 4’s flight control system incorporates several advanced features that enhance handling and maneuverability, including:
- Obstacle Avoidance Sensors:These sensors, positioned on the front, back, and bottom of the drone, detect obstacles and automatically adjust the flight path to avoid collisions. This feature significantly improves safety and provides peace of mind for pilots, particularly in cluttered environments.
- ActiveTrack:This feature allows the drone to automatically follow a selected subject, keeping it in the frame even as it moves. ActiveTrack uses visual recognition and object tracking algorithms to maintain a smooth and stable tracking experience.
- TapFly:This feature enables the drone to fly to a specific point on the screen simply by tapping on it. This intuitive control method allows for quick and easy navigation without complex commands.
- Return to Home (RTH):This feature allows the drone to automatically return to its takeoff point with the press of a button or in the event of a low battery or lost connection. RTH ensures the safe recovery of the drone, even in challenging situations.
The Phantom 3 lacks these advanced features, relying on more traditional flight control methods. While still capable, the Phantom 3’s handling and maneuverability are less refined and require a higher level of pilot skill, particularly in complex environments.
Advanced Features: Dji Phantom 3 Or 4
The Phantom 3 and Phantom 4 series introduce advanced features that enhance the drone’s capabilities and user experience. These features include obstacle avoidance, active tracking, and intelligent flight modes, which cater to various aerial photography and videography needs.
Obstacle Avoidance, Dji phantom 3 or 4
Obstacle avoidance technology significantly enhances the safety and reliability of drone flights, especially in complex environments. This technology uses sensors to detect obstacles in the drone’s path and allows it to navigate around them automatically. The Phantom 3 series introduced a basic form of obstacle avoidance through its downward-facing vision system.
This system primarily prevented collisions with the ground during landing or low-altitude flights. The Phantom 4, however, took obstacle avoidance to a new level with its advanced sensor system. It utilizes a combination of forward, downward, and upward-facing sensors to detect obstacles in all directions, providing comprehensive protection during flight.The Phantom 4’s obstacle avoidance system works by constantly scanning the environment for obstacles using its sensors.
When an obstacle is detected, the drone automatically adjusts its flight path to avoid it. This technology is particularly useful in scenarios where the pilot may not be able to see obstacles, such as in dense forests or urban environments.
- Phantom 3:Basic downward-facing vision system for obstacle avoidance.
- Phantom 4:Advanced sensor system with forward, downward, and upward-facing sensors for comprehensive obstacle avoidance.
Active Tracking
Active tracking allows the drone to follow a specific subject automatically, keeping it in the frame even as it moves. This feature simplifies the process of capturing dynamic footage and allows users to focus on the subject rather than controlling the drone’s movements.The Phantom 3 series offered a basic active tracking feature, but the Phantom 4 significantly improved this capability with its advanced tracking algorithms.
The Phantom 4’s active tracking system can track subjects with varying degrees of accuracy and responsiveness, even in challenging conditions like fast-moving subjects or environments with multiple objects. The Phantom 4’s active tracking system utilizes a combination of visual recognition and GPS data to maintain a stable track on the subject.
This allows the drone to follow the subject even when it is partially obscured or moves behind objects.
- Phantom 3:Basic active tracking feature with limited capabilities.
- Phantom 4:Advanced active tracking system with improved algorithms for more accurate and responsive tracking.
Intelligent Flight Modes
Intelligent flight modes automate complex drone maneuvers, simplifying the flight experience and enabling users to capture unique perspectives. These modes are pre-programmed flight paths that the drone can execute autonomously, freeing the pilot from manual control. The Phantom 3 series offered a limited selection of intelligent flight modes, such as “Point of Interest” and “Follow Me.” The Phantom 4 expanded on these options, introducing new modes like “ActiveTrack,” “TapFly,” and “Draw” which allow for more creative and versatile aerial photography.
- Phantom 3:Basic intelligent flight modes like “Point of Interest” and “Follow Me.”
- Phantom 4:Expanded range of intelligent flight modes, including “ActiveTrack,” “TapFly,” and “Draw.”
Conclusion
The DJI Phantom 3 and Phantom 4 series represent significant advancements in consumer drone technology, each offering unique capabilities and catering to different user needs. While both series share core features like intuitive controls and user-friendly interfaces, they differ in their camera quality, flight performance, and advanced features.
Key Differences and Similarities
The Phantom 3 and Phantom 4 series share common features, such as intuitive controls and user-friendly interfaces, but differ in camera quality, flight performance, and advanced features.
- Camera Quality:The Phantom 4 series boasts superior camera capabilities with a higher resolution sensor (12MP vs. 12.4MP), improved image processing, and advanced features like 4K video recording and a 3-axis gimbal for smoother footage. In contrast, the Phantom 3 series offers a more affordable option with decent image quality and video recording capabilities.
- Flight Performance:The Phantom 4 series excels in flight performance with features like obstacle avoidance, a faster top speed, and a longer flight time. The Phantom 3 series, while capable, offers a more budget-friendly option with a slightly slower flight speed and shorter flight time.
- Advanced Features:The Phantom 4 series incorporates advanced features like ActiveTrack, which allows the drone to automatically follow a subject, and TapFly, which enables users to control the drone’s direction with a simple tap on the screen. The Phantom 3 series offers a more basic feature set, but still provides essential features like GPS navigation and return-to-home functionality.
Recommendation for Different Users
The choice between the Phantom 3 and Phantom 4 series depends on the user’s needs and budget.
- For budget-conscious users:The Phantom 3 series offers a cost-effective option with decent image quality and flight performance. It is ideal for beginners or those seeking a drone for casual aerial photography and videography.
- For professional photographers and videographers:The Phantom 4 series delivers superior camera quality, advanced flight features, and a more professional experience. Its obstacle avoidance, ActiveTrack, and TapFly capabilities make it an excellent choice for capturing stunning aerial footage.
- For users seeking advanced features:The Phantom 4 series offers a wider range of advanced features, including obstacle avoidance, ActiveTrack, and TapFly, making it a more versatile and capable option.
Conclusive Thoughts
The choice between the DJI Phantom 3 and Phantom 4 ultimately comes down to your individual needs and budget. The Phantom 3 remains a capable and affordable option for hobbyists and casual photographers, offering a solid balance of features and performance.
The Phantom 4, on the other hand, stands as a testament to DJI’s commitment to innovation, delivering a level of sophistication and autonomy previously unseen in consumer drones. Whether you’re capturing breathtaking landscapes, documenting special events, or simply exploring the world from a new perspective, these drones offer a gateway to an exciting future of aerial photography.