The newly released DJI Air 3S drone camera represents a significant advancement in aerial photography technology, particularly when compared to its predecessor, the Mavic 3 Pro. Featuring an innovative 1-inch image sensor for its primary 24mm equivalent focal length (EFL) camera, the Air 3S is designed to capture images with enhanced detail and superior image quality . This improvement positions the Air 3S as a formidable option for both professional and amateur photographers seeking high-quality imagery from their drones.
The big change from the previous model is a new 1-inch image sensor for the main 24mm EFL camera; the drone has dual cameras so you can switch in flight to a 70mm EFL (in that regard like its predecessor, the Air 3).
The main camera has a 50MP sensor and is f/1.8 with a 0.5m close focus point while the 'medium tele' is still 48MP and offers f/2.8 and a 3m close focus point (both are autofocus). Video is captured in up to 10-bit at 60fps and 4K 120FPS is also possible, and both cameras have all the same modes on offer.
The Air 3S builds on the capabilities of the DJI Air 3, now featuring 10-bit color and higher ISO ranges, enabling it to perform better in low-light scenarios such as urban nightscapes. With a 1-inch CMOS sensor on the primary camera, users can shoot detailed 4K video at up to 120 fps. The secondary 70mm telephoto camera offers 3x optical zoom, ideal for portraits and compressed depth-of-field shots. Both cameras ensure visually consistent footage, simplifying post-production workflows.
The drone supports Free panorama mode, allowing photographers to create panoramic images by stitching multiple photos together. The wide angle lens broadens the field of vision, while the tele camera minimizes distortion for high-quality, expansive shots.
I tested the ActiveTrack 360 function while walking, biking and driving a car to see how it worked at various speeds. When tracking my car at around 20 to 25 mph, it stayed locked on while easily avoiding trees and power lines.
I found a bike trail among some widely spaced trees and another with denser foliage. In the first section, the drone weaved smoothly around obstacles while keeping the bike in frame. After a few minutes, I was confident it wouldn’t crash and was able to focus on creating some cool shots. The drone occasionally hesitated when it encountered obstacles, which spoiled some footage. However, it never crashed or lost track of the bike.
DJI’s Air 3S is available starting today on store.dji.com in a variety of kits. Prices start at $1099 / £959 / €1099 for the combo that includes a DJI RC-N3 controller to pilot things from your phone.
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