Fanatics of personal camera drones, be prepared to be enthralled by DJI’s latest model, the Avata. DJI has brought us some of the most trusted and recognized aviation machines such as the ever so popular DJI Mavic Air series and the compact “fit in your pocket” yet extremely powerful, DJI Mini drones. DJI has a track record of releasing fantastic, affordable, efficient drones that produce amazing footage and still images. So naturally, when DJI gives us a release date with a new product, they have our attention.
The DJI Avata FPV drone takes drone evolution to the next level. With a first of its kind FPV (first person view) drone flight, you can now pilot your drone using DJI Goggles 2 and a DJI motion controller allowing for unprecedented performance, dexterity, and simple control. This truly enables a new type of immersive experience and creates a view that would otherwise be unattainable. This feature alone will make for an all-new exciting experience whether you’re a beginner or a well-seasoned professional. The added enhanced safety features enable anyone to attempt creative aerial flight patterns and moves without concern of crashing into obstacles.
In terms of design, the Avata has a unique and compact design with a stripped-down chassis built for speed and dexterity. It weighs only 410 grams and still showcases aerodynamic propellor guards for additional protection which are typically found on larger heavier drones.
First Person View (FPV)
Before we get into the specs and features the DJI Avata drone has to offer, let’s quickly deep dive this new FPV dynamic.
The DJI Avata was created and designed to be used with the DJI Goggles 2 and the DJI Motion Controller. With the new motion flight controller, you steer the drone in correlation with the movement of your hand. The Avata’s new FPV control will make piloting your aircraft easy such as performing a classic move like hovering, or more veteran moves such as hyper acceleration, weaving in and out of tight corners and pathways, or taking a hard stop within a fraction of a second. In the event you manage to somehow land upside down, there is a new a new Turtle mode which allows it to flip back over and take off back to the skies.
DJI Goggles 2
DJI’s next generation video headset is smaller, weighs less, and is more comfortable than its predecessors. Additionally, the Goggles 2 viewfinder is far more advanced than other DJI drones offering a much brighter crystal-clear first-person view image. Boasting a top-of-the-line Micro OLED screen and adjustable diopters, you will get the perfect fit and view whether you wear glasses or not.
Using the Goggles 2 along with the DJI Motion Controller will provide you control of the drone and the gimbal camera allowing you to adjust to your scene and accomplish your vision. There is a touch panel on the side of the goggles for easy access to the Avata’s settings allowing you to tweak using only one hand leaving the other hand to maintain control of the drone using the motion controller.
DJI Avata and DJI Goggles 2 connect using DJI O3+ transmission, which DJI prides as the most powerful and reliable technology for precise control, and ultra-low latency. It offers the lowest transmission delay of approximately 30 milliseconds, the longest transmission distance of 10 kilometers, auto-switching dual frequencies, a high bitrate of 50 Mbps, and innovative anti-interference methods to ensure a smooth uninterrupted feed.
You can also view the live feed from your mobile phone or computer using DJI Goggles 2 Wireless Streaming function.
DJI Motion Controller
DJI designed the Motion Controller, so the flight and complex movements works with precision and execution based on your natural hand motions. This controller pushes the boundaries of piloting by creating such an immersive and controlled experience that even first-time flyers will be able to perform all the crazy stunts.
New 4K Imaging System
DJI raised the bar when comparing Imaging quality to other First Person View drone racers. The Avata has a 1/1.7-inch 48 Megapixel photo CMOS sensor, f2/8 aperture, an ultra-wide-angle lens, and viewing angle of up to 155 degrees. You get images and video up to 4k/60fps and slow-motion video at 2.7k/100fps. The DJI Avata has the popular D-Cinelike color mode which opens a lot of options in color detail during postproduction. Between the wider depth of field, camera specs, and editing modes, the Avata offers a completely immersive experience with superb imaging and video quality whether you are a beginner or professional.
Super Stabilization
The Avata uses two of DJI’s flagship stabilization technologies. DJI RockSteady gets rid of the overall picture shake while DJI HorizonSteady maintains the picture oriented toward true level. This is a dynamic duo of stabilization allowing you to capture the best shots even when flying in high pressured wind pockets or performing maneuvers which can also add pressure bumps to the drone.
Fly Safe features
With built in propeller guards which make the fuselage resilient and limits potential risk, you can fly confidently that your drone can survive minor collisions. There is a dedicated e-brake and hover feature which is available in every flying mode enabling you to stop or hover on a dime, even during flight. With a push of a button, Failsafe Return to Home feature lets you automatically send the Avata back to its home point. This feature will also activate if your transmission is lost or when the Avata’s battery reaches a critical level.
DJI Avata uses DJI’s GEO 2.0 geofencing system which informs you of any airspace restrictions and potential hazards, and to automatically prevent the drone from flying near certain high-risk locations, such as airports. DJI Avata also features DJI’s AirSense ADS-B receiver system to warn you when airplanes or helicopters are nearby, and broadcasts DJI’s AeroScope signal to help authorities monitor airborne drones in sensitive locations. The overwhelming majority of drone pilots fly safely and responsibly, and DJI Avata’s top speed performance can warrant extra attention and care from drone pilots to be aware of their surroundings.
Flight Modes
- Normal (N) Mode – Let’s you operate the Avata as you would a normal drone
- Manual (M) Mode – This mode is only to be used with the DJI FPV Remote Controller 2. Manual mode eliminates any restrictions on control, let’s you customize your own parameters, and enjoy the full First-Person View experience to its maximum effect.
- Sport (S) Mode – This new hybrid mode blends normal and manual modes to give you access to some of the abilities you get with manual mode while still providing many of the safety features that Normal Mode provides. This is a great “gateway” mode for beginners looking to home in and improve their flying skills.
DJI Virtual Flight App
Control the Avata through the DJI fly app for tutorials on operations. This free app is a flight simulator that lets you disseminate new flying maneuvers within a variety of settings which is a fantastic way to craft your skill in a fun, risk free environment.
Bundles
- DJI Avata Pro-View Combo with Goggles 2 and Motion Controller with 64GB
- DJI Avata Fly Smart Combo with FPV Goggles and Motion Controller with 64GB
- DJI Avata Pro Combo with DJI Goggles 2 and Motion Controller
- DJI Fly Smart Combo with DJI FPV Goggles V2 and Motion Controller
Review
The DJI Avata is by far one of the easiest and most fun drones I have ever flown. The experience was intense as this speedy drone is fast, coupled with the FPV goggles and remote controller, I felt as if I was the drone itself. One drawback is the 18 minutes of flight time which I can understand as the weight and size of the batteries will have a dramatic negative influence on flight speed, maneuverability, and would take away everything that is great about the Avata. The images and footage produced were outstanding with vivid clear quality. The price is right in line with other DJI drones and very much a value. I highly recommend this drone whether you’re looking for fun or for content creation.
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