DJI Air 3S vs. Air 3: what's changed?

The brand-new DJI Air 3S, available since 15 October 2024, marks an important evolution in the DJI drone range. Designed to meet the needs of photographers and videomakers looking for high quality and versatility, this new model stands out for its improved dual-camera system, a series of new safety features and a higher-performing flight experience.

In this article, we will analyze the main differences between the DJI Air 3S and its predecessor, the DJI Air 3, through five key points, offering a detailed comparison of the features that set these two models apart.

1. Enhanced Dual-Camera System

The DJI Air 3S brings a major upgrade to the camera department, with a 1-inch, 50 MP main sensor. Compared to the Air 3, which had a smaller, lower-resolution sensor, the DJI Air 3S delivers images with a wider dynamic range and sharp detail even in low-light conditions. The second camera, a 70 mm telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, also offers new possibilities for capturing portraits and distant landscapes, making the drone far more versatile in terms of perspective.

2. Improved Night Performance

One of the most significant innovations of the DJI Air 3S is the obstacle sensing system for low-light conditions, called Nightscape. Thanks to the use of LiDAR sensors and six cameras, this drone can fly safely even at night or in poorly lit environments. This capability is a clear improvement over the Air 3, which was not optimized for night flights.

3. Greater Storage Capacity

The DJI Air 3S comes with 42 GB of built-in storage, an addition that reduces reliance on microSD cards. This makes it easier to record videos and photos during flights, allowing users to avoid problems related to managing external cards. In addition, with the Off-State QuickTransfer feature, files can be transferred even when the drone is switched off, an option the Air 3 did not offer.

4. Flight Time and Performance

Both drones offer a flight time of up to 45 minutes, but the DJI Air 3S features a more efficient power management system, allowing you to optimise flight time even in adverse weather conditions. In addition, thanks to the O4 transmission system, the DJI Air 3S can transmit video up to 20 km away with a stable, uninterrupted connection, making it ideal for flights in remote areas.

5. Robust yet Portable Design

Although the DJI Air 3S weighs 724 grams, it remains extremely portable thanks to its foldable design, similar to that of the Air 3. However, the greater sturdiness of the new model makes it more resistant to difficult weather conditions, such as strong winds. This makes it a better choice for those who need a drone that can handle more demanding scenarios while still keeping the convenience of easy transport.

In conclusion…

The DJI Air 3S brings numerous improvements over the already excellent DJI Air 3, which remains an extremely capable drone for those looking for a good balance between performance and portability. The new model, however, stands out for its more advanced camera, its optimised night flight handling and a larger memory capacity.

These updates make it the ideal choice for those who want to get the most out of their aerial footage in terms of quality and versatility. If the DJI Air 3 was already a solid choice, the DJI Air 3S represents a natural evolution for those who want to take a step forward.