Opinions about the DJI Mini 5 Pro have been flying around social media. The launch of DJI’s latest drone marks a turning point for DJI’s ‘Mini’ drone family. With a 1-inch 50 MP sensor, 10-bit video and safety enhancements, this drone promises to win over both content creators and professionals looking for lightness without compromising on quality.
In this article, I share my thoughts on the DJI Mini 5 Pro, compare its features with previous models (Mini 2, Mini 3 Pro, and Mini 4 Pro), and analyse in which scenarios it may be the best option.
What’s new in the DJI Mini 5 Pro
Highlights of this model:
- 1-inch, 50 MP sensor with f/1.8 aperture → improves low-light photography and allows for greater dynamic range.
- Professional video → 4K/60 HDR, 4K/120 fps slow motion and 10-bit recording with D-Log M and HLG profiles.
- Gimbal with up to 225° rotation and true vertical mode, designed for social media content.
- Omnidirectional sensors with front LiDAR → improved safety even at night.
- Superior battery life → up to 36 minutes with standard battery and over 50 minutes with Plus battery.
- 42 GB internal storage → you no longer have to rely so much on microSD cards.
Differences between the Mini 5 PRO and previous models
To better understand the leap forward, let’s review how it has evolved compared to the Mini series.
- Compared to the Mini 2 and basic models: huge gap in video (limited to 4K/30 fps), much simpler sensors and no internal memory.
- Compared to the Mini 4 Pro: improved sensor (1‘ vs. 1/1.3’), internal storage (42 GB vs. 2 GB) and adds LiDAR.
- Compared to the Mini 3 Pro: leap in image quality, longer battery life, and better stability in adverse conditions.
| Model | Weight | Time of flight | Sensor | Video | Storage | Sensors |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mini 2 | 249 g | ~31 min | 1/2.3″ – 12 MP | 4K/30 fps | – | Limited |
| Mini 3 Pro | 249 g | ~34/47 min (Plus) | 1/1.3″ – 48 MP | 4K/60 fps | – | Directional |
| Mini 4 Pro | 249 g | ~34/45 min (Plus) | 1/1.3″ – 48 MP | 4K/60 fps HDR | 2 GB | Omnidirectional |
| Mini 5 Pro | 249,9 g | ~36/52 min (Plus) | 1″ – 50 MP | 4K/60 HDR – 4K/120 slo-mo – 10-bit | 42 GB | Omnidirectional + LiDAR |
Opinions on the DJI Mini 5 Pro: strengths and weaknesses
Strengths
- Excellent performance in photography and video, especially in low light.
- More flexible gimbal, ideal for vertical content creators.
- Advanced safety with LiDAR, unique in drones in this category.
- Long battery life and integrated internal memory.
- Under 250 g → still very light and easy to carry.
Points to consider
- Risk that some units may exceed 250 g, which may entail additional legal requirements for flying in the open category of drones.
- Although it withstands wind well (12 m/s), it does not match the stability of larger drones.
Uses and applications of the Mini 5 Pro
This drone is particularly useful for:
- Social media content creators: thanks to true vertical and 10-bit recording.
- Lightweight professional aerial photography: a 1-inch sensor and f/1.8 aperture make all the difference.
- Travellers and bloggers: portable, autonomous and without excessive legal restrictions.
- Corporate and advertising video: sufficient quality for serious projects without the need for heavier drones.
- Light inspections and amateur mapping: with good autonomy and stability.
In summary, my opinions on the DJI Mini 5 Pro are very positive: DJI has managed to bring the features of larger drones to an ultra-lightweight format, with a larger sensor, better battery life, and greater safety. It is an ideal model for those looking for a powerful and lightweight drone, although for those who already have a Mini 4 Pro, the investment will depend on how much they value these improvements.
