DJI Mavic 2 Zoom Review: An Eagle-Eyed Aerial Ace

The DJI Mavic 2 Zoom is a versatile machine that's fun to fly, and it would make an excellent addition to any photographer or videographer's kit-bag. You'll find even more uses for it as you fly it: checking out the flashing (or shingles) on your roof or the windows or rain gutters on the upper story of your home; insurance photos; taking group (or any) photos from just about any height or angle; shooting promotional materials for a vehicle or other item you may be selling; or adding some excitement to your blog by including video of your family, your travels, or your home. Really, the list is literally endless. You'll almost certainly think of ways to utilize your drone that even the manufacturer never considered. Keep in mind that if you intend to use a drone for commercial purposes, you must obtain an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate. More info here.

Unfortunately, not everything you may need is included in the DJI Mavic 2 Zoom base package (now on sale for under $1200). Essentially, you get the drone itself, the camera/gimbal protector, the controller, various connectors to use with the controller, one battery, and a battery charger with connectors. That said, you're probably going to want more: a case, an SD card for additional storage, an extra battery or two (purchased separately, these will set you back about $130 ea.), and possibly a charger hub that lets you charge up to four batteries at one time. DJI's Fly More Kit includes extra props, extra batteries, a 12V "cigarette lighter" charger to use in your car, and a case in which to carry it all. However, it does not include a case for the drone/controller combo itself. At about $316 on Amazon, it might be worth your consideration, or you may just want to pony up for a bigger bundle, such as the $1,630 DJI Mavic 2 Zoom Fly More Combo Deluxe Bundle, to start with when you get the drone itself.

Regardless, even if you're a newbie, you couldn't pick a better aircraft for your introduction to drone-flying than the Mavic 2 Zoom. But when you want to fly completely free and unfettered, and are capable of doing so, the Mavic 2 Zoom will also let you remove the training wheels and fly virtually wherever and however you like. Most of us will be content with the Mavic 2's practical combination of high-performance tempered by safety features such as sophisticated and reliable obstacle-avoidance. Professionals, on the other hand, will likely marvel in the Mavic 2 Zoom's capabilities to capture the shot, whether it be a smooth panoramic vista or some slick, almost freakishly-cool Dolly Zoom action. Taking it one step further, video and still image professionals looking for higher fidelity shots with HDR shooting capabilities would be better served by the Mavic 2 Pro for a couple hundred or so more. There's no substitution for its Hasselblad optics and 20MP 1-inch sensor.

Either way, there's also no question that DJI's new Mavic 2 platform has raised and set the bar once again for compact personal drone technology. Frankly, it's just an amazing machine.

 

Easy-to-use DJI Go 4 app Configurable controller w/ display Automated Quickshot modes are impressive Omnidirectional obstacle-avoidance 3-axis gimbal and camera w/ zoom is buttery smooth 30+ minute flight time	Pricey, especially when you add important options 3rd-party hardware required to use with tablets