DJI Mavic 3 Pro vs Mavic 3 Classic: Is the Pro worth the upgrade?
When considering a Mavic 3 drone purchase, you’ll have to choose between the DJI Mavic 3 Pro vs. Mavic 3 Classic.
There are two main differences between the DJI Mavic 3 Pro and Mavic 3 Classic.
- The Mavic 3 Pro is equipped with three cameras, including two telephoto cameras. Meanwhile, the Mavic 3 Classic features just one.
- Then there’s cost. The Mavic 3 Pro is 27% more expensive than the Mavic 3 Classic.
So which should you choose? Here is a closer look at the DJI Mavic 3 Pro vs Mavic 3 Classic drones and a detailed guide to help you determine which drone is right for you.
DJI Mavic 3 Classic
The DJI Mavic 3 Classic launched in November 2022, a year after the Mavic 3 and Mavic 3 Cine. With it comes a more budget-friendly option. The Mavic 3 Classic retails for $1,599, versus the $2,199 Mavic 3 Pro. The biggest contributing factor to the lower price point is that you won’t get a telephoto lens.
Like the more expensive Mavic 3 and 3 Cine drones, the Mavic 3 Classic still holds strong with the Mavic 3’s most notable feature: the Hasselblad camera. You’ll have true-to-life colors (especially noteworthy at night), thanks to Hasselblad Natural Colour Solution.
Transmission is also a big factor for drone pilots. Most delightfully, this drone continues on the legacy of O3+ transmission. With that, you get a 15km range while still receiving that smooth 1080p/60fps live feed.
DJI Mavic Pro
Debuting in April 2023, the Mavic 3 Pro holds the title of the world’s first drone with three optical cameras. That’s the Hasselblad camera, plus two tele-cameras. Despite inflation, its price of $2,199 matches the original Mavic 3, while providing more advanced features.
The Mavic 3 Pro’s triple camera combination lets you switch between shot compositions with just one tap. The top-of-the-line drone also includes omnidirectional obstacle sensing, 15-kilometer video transmission, and 43 minutes of flight time.
Purchase your Mavic 3 Pro now from Amazon.
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DJI Mavic 3 Pro vs. Mavic 3 Classic: a comparison of price and specs
The Mavic 3 Classic comes with a significant discount compared to the Pro. Sure, that might be appealing for those looking to save. But, it’s crucial to understand what you might be missing out on.
Here is a comparison of the DJI Mavic 3 Pro vs. Mavic 3 Classic. With that comes a breakdown of what each offers so you can decide the best drone for your budget:
| DJI Mavic 3 Pro | ||
| Starting Price | $2,199 | $1,599 |
| Takeoff Weight | 958 grams | 895 grams |
| Dimensions: folded, without propellers (LxWxH) | 231.1×98×95.4 mm | 221×96.3×90.3 mm |
| Number of Cameras | 3 | 1 |
| Primary camera and lens specs | Hasselblad Camera: 4/3 CMOS, Effective Pixels: 20 MP FOV: 84° | Hasselblad Camera: 4/3 CMOS, Effective Pixels: 20 MP FOV: 84° |
| Medium Tele camera and lens specs | 1/1.3-inch CMOS, Effective Pixels: 48 MP FOV: 35°Format Equivalent: 70 mmAperture: f/2.8Focus: 3 m to ∞ | N/A |
| Tele camera and lens specs | 1/2-inch CMOS, Effective Pixels: 12 MP FOV: 15°Format Equivalent: 166 mmAperture: f/3.4Focus: 3 m to ∞ | N/A |
| Digital zoom | Hasselblad Camera: 1-3×Medium Tele Camera: 3-7×Tele Camera: 7-28× | 3× |
| Gimbal mechanical range | Tilt: -140° to 50°Roll: -50° to 50°Pan: -23° to 23° | Tilt: -135° to 100°Roll: -45° to 45°Pan: -27° to 27° |
| Sensor | 4/3″ CMOS | 4/3″ CMOS |
| Obstacle Avoidance | Omnidirectional binocular vision system, supplemented with an infrared sensor at the bottom of the aircraft | Omnidirectional binocular vision system, supplemented with an infrared sensor at the bottom of the aircraft |
| Max Flight Time | 43 minutes | 46 minutes |
| Transmission System | O3+ | O3+ |
Mavic 3 Pro vs. Mavic 3 Classic: Are the two zoom cameras worth the extra cost?
DJI’s Mavic 3 Pro is equipped with three cameras, while the Mavic 3 Classic features just one. The choice boils down to whether the Pro’s telephoto cameras align with your photography needs.
If your focus is on broad landscapes or if physical closeness to the subject is possible, the Mavic 3 Classic might suffice, especially considering its lower cost.
The Pro version becomes valuable when you need to capture subjects from a distance without disturbing them or in scenarios where flying closer is not an option due to restrictions or safety concerns. That might include wildlife photographers, who want to respect space between animals. Or, it might be critical for certain commercial operations like inspections, where the ability to see details like tiny cracks or slight discoloration is critical.
That’s not the only factor to consider. While the Pro offers slightly shorter flight times due to the added weight of extra cameras, it boasts color recording capabilities. That potentially offers a slight edge in high-contrast filming situations.
Mavic 3 Pro vs. Mavic 3 Classic: The Bottom Line
The decision ultimately depends on your specific needs and photography style. For those not requiring the telephoto lenses, the Classic represents a significant saving. However, if you’re looking to explore or need the advanced photographic capabilities offered by the Pro’s additional lenses, it might be worth the investment.
For serious photographers contemplating beyond the Mavic 3 Pro, the Inspire 3, with its full-frame Zenmuse X9-8k Air Gimbal Camera and interchangeable lenses, represent the next level of drone cinematography.
