DJI Flip: Vlogger drone with full propeller protection

After DJI has repeatedly launched new versions of its long-established drone models on the market recently, the company is now launching a completely new series: the “DJI Flip”. It differs greatly from the other DJI quadrocopters in terms of its outward appearance with a foldable, full-surface propeller guard. According to the manufacturer, the protection, which completely encloses the propellers, is designed to prevent injuries and damage to the drone. Made from lightweight carbon fiber filament, DJI says the guard's support structure is only 1/60th the weight of devices made from traditional polycarbonate material, but maintains the same strength and durability, ensuring safe flights.

As the DJI Flip weighs less than 249 grams, it is not only easy to transport, but can also be used in accordance with drone regulations in most countries with only a few restrictions (including in the EU without a driver's license).

According to the manufacturer, the Flip will join the DJI range as a model for vlogs, which, according to Product Experience Director Ferdinand Wol, is designed to “combine the simplicity of the DJI Neo with the impressive photo capabilities of the DJI Mini and make both aerial photography and close-up portraits accessible to everyone”. To this end, the new model combines creative functions such as AI subject tracking and intelligent shooting modes (Dronie, Circle, Rocket, Spotlight, Helix and Boomerang) with safety functions – such as the foldable propeller guard and an automatic braking function that should also work at night thanks to 3D infrared sensors. The familiar MasterShots, in which the drone automatically performs various camera movements, records, and edits several clips and then adds music and effects to them, are also on board again.

The camera of the DJI Flip has a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor with Dual Native ISO Fusion and an aperture of f/1.7. It takes photos with 48 MPixel and videos in 4K resolution and at 60 frames per second – also in HDR on request. The DJI Flip also supports slow-motion recording at 4K/100fps and a “10-bit D-Log M” color mode. A 4:3 image sensor offers space for vertical crops with 2.7K resolution for social media posts.

The DJI Flip can be operated with the DJI RC-N3 or RC 2 remote controls. It can also be controlled with the DJI Fly app or hands-free via voice control. If the drone is connected to a smartphone, it can also record audio and, according to the manufacturer, intelligently reduce noise by automatically filtering out propeller noise. Coupled with the DJI RC-N3 or RC 2 remote control, the drone enables video transmission of up to 13 km with 1080p/60fps images via the proprietary “DJI O4” system, according to DJI. It should be noted at this point that in Germany only one flight in direct line of sight of the pilot is permitted.

The DJI Flip should achieve a flight time of up to 31 minutes on a single battery charge. The DJI Flip's parallel charging station charges two batteries simultaneously.

The DJI Flip can be ordered from today and will be shipped immediately, according to the manufacturer. The basic model is offered at a list price of 439 euros, with RC-2 remote control the model costs 639 euros. If you would also like more accessories (including a total of three batteries, a suitable charging station and a bag), there is another “Fly More Combo” (also with DJI RC-2) at a price of 779 euros. (nij)