On September 5, 2024, DJI introduced the Neo, a compact, palm-sized drone designed for vloggers and everyday users. Weighing just 135 grams (sub 250 grams do not require licensing to operate in Canada), the Neo is marketed as a “palm-sized vlog drone,” emphasizing its ability to be launched and landed directly from your hand. With AI-powered flight modes that focus the camera on the user, the Neo functions as a flying selfie stick, offering an easy and intuitive way to capture high-quality videos on the go.
While the Neo is primarily aimed at consumers, its features have caught our attention at Candrone for potential applications in enterprise and industrial sectors. Similar to how DJI’s Avata drone has found a niche in public safety and policing, we believe the Neo could be adapted for more professional uses beyond its original design. To better understand this potential, let’s compare the Neo with the Avata and explore the possibilities.
Neo Pricing
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CAD |
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CAD |
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Avata |
$1379 |
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Avata Fly More |
$1579 |
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- |
$9 |
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- |
$29 |
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Avata battery |
$179 |
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Avata Propellers |
$15 |
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DJI RC-N3 |
$139 |
- |
$99 |
Key Takeaways from the Pricing Comparison
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Base Cost: The DJI Neo is significantly more affordable than the Avata, with the base model priced at $249 CAD compared to the Avata's $1379 CAD. This makes the Neo a more accessible option for consumers and professionals who need a capable drone without a hefty price tag.
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Fly More Combos: For those looking to get more out of their drone, the Fly More Combo for the Neo is priced at $445 CAD, whereas the Avata Fly More Combo is $1579 CAD. The Neo's combo offers substantial savings while providing additional batteries, a charging hub, and other useful accessories.
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High-risk, low price: The affordability of the Neo makes it almost “disposable” for high-risk applications where loss or damage to the aircraft is likely.
Neo vs. Avata: A Comparative Overview
Here’s a detailed comparison of the specifications between the DJI Neo and the DJI Avata:
|
Feature |
DJI Neo |
DJI Avata |
Comparison |
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Weight |
135 grams |
410 grams |
The Neo is significantly lighter, making it more portable but possibly less stable in strong winds. The Neo falls under the sub 250gram category, giving it the advantage |
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Dimensions |
130×157×48.5 mm (L×W×H) |
180×180×80 mm |
The Neo is smaller and more compact, ideal for tight spaces. |
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Flight Time |
Approx. 18 minutes |
Approx. 18 minutes (without prop guards) |
Both drones have similar flight times, though Avata may have reduced time with prop guards. |
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Max Flight Distance |
7 km |
11.6 km |
Avata offers a longer range, better suited for extended missions. |
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Operating Temperature |
-10° to 40° C (14° to 104° F) |
-10° to 40° C (14° to 104° F) |
Both drones operate within the same temperature range. |
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Max Wind Resistance |
8 m/s |
10.7 m/s |
Avata has better wind resistance, making it more reliable in adverse weather conditions. |
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Max Speed |
6 m/s (Normal) 8 m/s (Sport) 16 m/s (Manual) |
6 m/s |
The Neo has variable speed modes with a higher max speed in manual mode, offering more control options. |
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Camera |
1/2-inch image sensor, 12MP, 4K |
1/1.7-inch CMOS, 12MP, 4K |
Avata has a slightly larger image sensor, potentially offering better image quality. |
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Controller Compatibility |
DJI RC-N3 Remote: Up to 1080p/30fps |
DJI Goggles 3 + DJI RC Motion 3, DJI FPV Remote Controller 3: Up to 1080p/60fps, DJI Goggles 2 |
Avata offers more advanced controller options and higher resolution for FPV experiences. |
Understanding the Differences
- Portability and Use Cases: The Neo’s feather-light weight of 135 grams and compact dimensions make it extremely portable, ideal for quick deployments in confined spaces. On the other hand, the Avata’s heavier build provides better stability, which can be advantageous in windy conditions or when performing precision tasks.
- Range and Flight Time: Both drones offer approximately 18 minutes of flight time, but the Avata’s longer maximum flight distance of 11.6 km compared to the Neo’s 7 km makes it more suitable for missions requiring extended reach.
- Environmental Adaptability: While both drones operate within the same temperature range, the Avata has superior wind resistance, making it better equipped for outdoor operations in challenging weather conditions.
- Camera Capabilities: The Neo’s 1/2-inch image sensor is sufficient for high-quality video, but the Avata’s slightly larger 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor might offer better image quality, particularly in low-light conditions.
- Controller and Interface: The Avata’s compatibility with DJI Goggles and advanced FPV controllers makes it ideal for immersive and precise operations, while the Neo’s simpler control options cater more to ease of use and accessibility for casual users.
Enterprise and Industrial Applications of the DJI Neo
Although the DJI Neo is designed with the consumer in mind, its features make it an intriguing option for certain professional applications. Here are some potential uses:
- Close-Quarters Inspection: The Neo’s small size and agility could be highly useful in inspecting confined or hard-to-reach areas, such as inside HVAC systems, pipelines, or small industrial spaces where larger drones might struggle.
- Public Safety and Surveillance: Building on the success of the Avata in public safety, the Neo could be deployed in policing and surveillance, especially in scenarios requiring a discreet presence or in navigating tight urban environments.
- Search and Rescue: In urban search and rescue missions, the Neo’s ability to maneuver through debris and tight spaces could make it an effective first responder, providing critical visual data before larger drones or ground teams arrive.
Conclusion
The DJI Neo, with its compact size and user-friendly features, can be more than just a consumer drone. Its potential for adaptation in enterprise and industrial sectors is significant, offering unique advantages in situations where larger drones may not be practical. Whether you’re looking for a discreet inspection tool or a new addition to your public safety toolkit, the Neo could be a valuable asset. At Candrone, we’re excited to see how this innovative drone can be leveraged for professional applications, and we’re eager to explore its full potential alongside our customers.
