DJI Mini 4 Pro Review

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is a compact drone that folds down to under six inches diagonally when not in flight, and is capable of capturing 4k video and 48 MP still images. It offers true vertical shooting in 4k, attainable through the camera gimbal's unique ability to rotate 45 degrees on demand.

Image Quality

For such a compact drone, the DJI Mini 4 Pro impresses in terms of image quality, consistently delivering smooth, fluid 4k video and crisp, clear 48MP still images. A feature unique to the Mini 4 Pro is its capability to rotate its camera payload 45 degrees for a true vertical shooting experience, popular for social media edits. The gimbal range is quite large, spanning a massive 150 degrees from -90 degrees straight down to 60 degrees up from horizontal. Our only real gripe with the image quality of the Mini 4 Pro is that the 1/1.3-inch camera sensor offers limited compensation for overexposure compared to some others in our test group. However, considering the price range, it still delivers excellent performance.

Flight Performance

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is quite small, even when unfolded, measuring only 10.5" diagonally and weighing only 244 grams, so it comes as no surprise that it struggles in the wind. Although it demonstrated steady and stable flight performance in most of our testing, you can see the Mini 4 Pro working hard when the breeze picks up, making twitchy movements to stay stable. But considering its lightweight design, we were quite impressed with its stability and confidence-inspiring flight performance. Like many other DJI drones, you have three flight modes available to you: Cine, Normal, and Sport. Between the three different flight modes, you have a massive usable range of control response and gimbal sensitivity, making it very versatile in a variety of scenarios. The obstacle avoidance of the Mini 4 Pro functions quite well, and although it allowed itself to get closer to some obstacles than some of the larger drones, it confidently stopped before hitting anything in our test flights. Obstacle avoidance is disabled when flying in Sport Mode.

Portability

The DJI Mini 4 Pro sticks true to its claim of being mini, measuring just under six inches diagonally when folded and weighing only 244 grams. Although it doesn't come with a case, it does include a small foam piece to support and immobilize the camera gimbal when not in use, as well as a plastic shield to protect it and a flexible plastic strap that secures all the propellers in place. The propeller guard is somewhat of a challenge to put on and take off, but we appreciate that it keeps the propellers secure and tucked away, preventing damage during transportation. You could carry the Mini 4 Pro wrapped in an extra shirt or coat, or put it on top of a bag to safely transport it, but we'd recommend getting a dedicated carrying case to protect your investment.

Usability

The DJI Mini 4 Pro comes with DJI's RC-N2 Controller. It doesn't have an integrated screen, but it has a highly adjustable phone clamp that was able to fit a Samsung S25 Ultra with a case on it without issues. The controller includes cable options for both Apple and Android users, and features a clever design that integrates the cable into the controller, making it easy to store and keep track of. The joysticks are also easily removable and can be stored in small slots in the controller, making it more user-friendly to transport safely.

The DJI Fly App runs on your phone and is a critical part of flying the DJI Mini 4 Pro; the drone cannot be flown without it. The app is very user-friendly and intuitive, even for new flyers; oftentimes, it includes short instructional video clips to get you up to speed on the capabilities of the feature you're selecting. The DJI Fly App is geared more toward creative people, rather than having the commercial feel some drone apps have. One feature that stood out to us is that the app overlays an augmented reality silhouette of the drone when looking down with the camera to help you fine-tune where you're going to land. The return-to-home feature functions quite well and safely brought the Mini 4 Pro back down within just a few inches of its initial takeoff point.

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is unique among our testing lineup, as it is the only drone capable of true vertical shooting, which is made possible by its camera gimbal turning 45 degrees at the click of a button. Vertical shooting is becoming more and more popular as a lot of content is made to be viewed on phones, and is something to keep in mind when selecting a drone.

Should You Buy the DJI Mini 4 Pro?

The DJI Mini 4 Pro fills a sweet spot in the DJI lineup. It's still more affordable than larger, more capable drones, but it has features and flight capability that set it apart from cheaper drones. The Mini 4 Pro is a great fit for those new to drones, but are sure of their investment. It provides a user-friendly experience that you can use right away, but it has more advanced features that you can grow into as you become more familiar with the device. It's also a great budget choice for those looking to use a drone for videography and photography. Those looking for a drone to utilize active tracking of a moving subject might want to steer clear, as the compact size of the Mini 4 Pro limits its flight capabilities, and it struggles in windy conditions.

What Other Drones Should You Consider?

The DJI Mini 4 Pro might be too small for those who often find themselves shooting in windy conditions. Larger, heavier drones generally fare better in the wind, and that is definitely the case with both the DJI Air 3S and the DJI Mavic 3 Pro. The Air 3S offers incredible value and a step up in performance across the board compared to the Mini 4 Pro, and the Mavic 3 Pro is an expensive but heavy hitter with a three-camera payload, making it extremely versatile in addition to its steady flight performance. Those looking for something cheap and simple should consider the DJI Neo that takes off and lands right from the palm of your hand and doesn't require the use of a controller.