I think it is much more than a selfie drone. The video is fantastic and is on par with other larger, more expensive drones. Obviously not the p4 or mavic but pretty dam good. I love mine, especially with the controller.
RC Tanks & Trucks 24/7 yes he didn’t give it enough of a prop of being basically a little brother and still competing with it and it now has a lot of more new features that he didn’t have
Quik Tip: Calibrate compass just before every flight. The smallest compass errors during flight can cause the aircraft to ignore GPS. (Atti mode). When this happens, *The wind will steal your drone* if you don't have a remote or know how to fly it manually.
Excellent Video sir! Thank's for the tutorial. I purchased a spark a few moths ago. I was so frustrated with the gesture features, that I went back and purchased the remote. Now that I have watched your video, I feel like I can take it out on a vacation and have fun without having to pack the remote. Keep up the great videos!
I was in Erie just yesterday, for a micro brew fest at the Erie Amphitheater right on the Presque Isle bay. A few things to add to your review. I have a DJI Spark as well, but I bought the "Fly More" package, which comes with a 2nd battery and a RC controller (and I also bought a 3rd battery at the same time). It also comes with more props, a nice carrying case, a GOOD Sd card and other extras. If you are serious about using this craft as a TOOL, not just a "selfie drone", I HIGHLY recommend the "Fly More" package. The next thing is that the "Gestures" need to be done properly. For example, when you were giving the gesture for it to take a picture, your thumbs and forefingers were not touching. You will get better results if your thumbs touch your forefingers, forming a frame. This is spelled out in the instructions as well in DJI Instruction videos for the Spark (they have an entire series of 3 min. apps to show you how to correctly operate it). I did try Gesture control myself, and everything worked straight away, as I had watched the instructional videos first. It would be nice to allow for video, not just pics, in gesture mode. That will probably come as they update the firmware. Flying with the RC (and making the connection between your phone and the RC with an OTG cable), puts this into the Camera Bird category. Everything, the RC, the craft, 3 batteries, spare props, phone, OTG cable and cell phone ALL fit in the nice carry all case you get in the Fly More package. I stick this case in my carrier satchel on the back of my bike, and I'm ready to ride out into the country and use it as a camera bird. Using the RC, I've pushed it out to past 1/2 mile and still had a solid lock on control. It is advertised as being able to go 1.2 miles, and I've seen guys go further. However, this one has a realistic battery flight time of 12-14 minutes, depending on the wind. It doesn't fly very fast (because of the obstacle avoidance system), unless you put it into sport mode (which disables obstacle avoidance), and in sport mode, its very fast (25mph). Its a good and portable little craft, and I've already posted a few videos to my YT channel using it. Enjoy the PA. weather .. much cooler than the dessert. Cheers.
My comments are always well considered and thoughtful. I think they are much more meaningful than those who simply post "First", or some other inane comment. FWIW, I post long and thoughtful comments on most TH-cam channels I follow regularly.
The next DJI Go 4 app release will include the option to do Videos with Gesture .. read that today. The app is in "pre-release". Thought you might like to know.
I just got one of these a while ago, and it's phenomenal, range is really really good, hand gestures work (with patience) and sport mode is absolutely disgusting! So fast and still maintains GPS lock, good for long fast flight. Of course I bought the deluxe version with remote, travel pack, extra battery, props, base charger and sd card
I have the fly more combo and its amazing. I have a video on my channel showing the features and comparing it to my Dji Phantom 3 Standard. I also demonstrate the gestures for gesture mode.
Hey @Quadcopter101 in your description you said that this drone was a 5 mp stills camera but the dji website said it was a 12 mp. And BTW I love your review on this. I have this drone and have flown it for birthdays and events. Everyone I worked for love this little guy and it's a great investment
That's true, its sensor is 12MP. But the pictures that you take may not be. You need to be aware that it automatically changes the image size based on the particular shooting mode that you're using as follows. And unfortunately, there's no way to change the following: 3968×2976 when shooting without tracking an object 1440×1080 when tracking an object in ActiveTrack or Gesture mode 1440×1080 with ShallowFocus 2300×1280 with Pano (horizontal) 960×1280 with Pano (vertical) For example, the photos in the above video were all taken in Gesture mode. The image size for each picture was only 1440*1080p (less than 2MP).
As others have commented, this is a completely different bird with the remote. It is unfair to classify this as a selfie drone because it is so much more than that. This is a fully featured hi tech product that can really only be compared to other Dji drones. I can't imagine anyone buying a Mavic without the remote and I think Dji has made a mistake in selling the Spark that way. Most of the unfavourable reviews I have seen are by people that do not have the fly more combo. I hope that you are able to get the remote and revisit this for another review. Spark is not the fastest quad by any means but in sport mode she is so much fun to fly. So stable and rock solid in the air even in wind that would ground some of my other birds. I started the hobby with toy grade birds which I still do fly. Graduated to brushless and some racers which I really enjoy, but none of them can compare to the quality of the Spark. This is by far the best bird in my collection. Thank you for all of your reviews, enjoy your vacation and get the remote!
I want one!! I currently have only toy grade drones one with gps. I agree everything ive seen on the spark all the videos you need the controller. Nice last name too Ive only met one other Bond in my 40 yrs. My family creed is The world is never enough just like the Bond movie I wonder if were related some how.
Seeing you set the Spark with gesture mode, does that mean you have to keep your phone on and nearby? Or can you turn the cell off and work directly with the Spark? Thanks
There are several versions/companies making the same drones, he probably did'nt test all the brands - but this channel is the go-to place for any drone produced since 2015 haha. He must be a work-a-holic :)
Great job, as always, Gerard! Loved the video. I just sent my Meadow Green Spark to the hospital yesterday 😕 (pilot error) (but I have Care Refresh). I don't mind saying, I prefer to fly it more than my Mavic. Yes, the Mavic is significantly more capable, but something about this little guy (WITH the fly-more combo) irresistible. So I'll miss it.
Hello quadcopter101. Jesse here from the Philippines. I would just like to clarify what you said in the video that, when using Gesture mode, the Spark does not use GPS but rather it's vision positioning system to tell itself where it is in relation to the ground and to the pilot. Is this accurate?
I have one query about gesture detection how is it deone detected gestures can u tell the mechanism of that which sensor or camera used for detecting geature pls tell me
As with most GPS drones, this one requires a compass calibration. This is especially true when you receive it, or if you travel to a new area to fly it. As its small size makes it an ideal travel drone, got a feeling that a some of those were caused by an improperly done (or not done at all) compass calibration.
Sorry, but this one does have stunning video. I can't tell the difference between the Spark and a Mavic on the equipment I have, and I will never own a 4K computer or TV to play 4K back on. 5K 6K 7K just around the corner, are we going start bagging 1080P and 4K.
@quadcopter 101. What do you use to record your audio. It blocks out the drone very well. And how are you editing / syncing the sound with the drone video ?
I'm using the built-in microphone on my standard Mobius hat camera goo.gl/GngCcz And I use VSDC fre video editor to edit and sync up my videos www.videosoftdev.com/free-video-editor It really is free, and very powerful, but not very intuitive to use. Fortunately there are many TH-cam tutorials on its use.
Hi sir im from 🇵🇭 Philippines im one of your fan. My dream is to have a drone someday because i can't afford a drone like this.. If i have one. I will really take care of it and take it as a treasure.. More power for your channel and always take care.. You are my idol.
I agree that Spark have many new features, but sadly DJI block so much old feature. I hope in future DJI will give those old features too by updating the firmware.
Start the video recording with the controller before you do gesture mode and it will record everything from taking off your hand to landing back on your hand..
You almost lost a finger to that wind there hehe. I have been waiting for your review, because you're seasoned, impartial and not easily impressed. This Spark seem very advanced yet very unconventional, I like it. The stable and sharp image quality is amazing. How would you judge it's actual flying abilities?
I got the one without controller. Was mainly interested in this as a vacation photo/video drone, not as a sport drone. Thus I really can't attest to its flight abilities. But others are saying good things about it.
Hold your hand up. Move closer or farther until the quadcopter's lights change from red and start blinking green (acquiring mode). Then hold your hand very steady *until the quadcopter's lights turn solid green* (it's acquired your hand). Then it should work after that.
I totally disagree with this guy I have the Spar and it does so much more than he says. The camera is as good if not better than a lot of others. The thing is it works so much better with the remote
Dude I love your videos but you go way off track then what your description says, get on with the video, don't stand there and talk about things we already know!! We know about the SD card and where to charge it all that good stuff we know it, we come to your videos for help a lot of the time just like now, but we have to set here and listen to a bunch of junk we already know, get on with the description!!
My philosophy is anything you bring home need to serve two or more purposes. With a selfie drone, you get the fun part and - if needed - the documentation parts covered. Also, it takes away the need for a camera and an expensive smartphone. If the selfie drone is a capable flyer too, it takes away the need for owning several drones each serving their own purpose (racing, selfie, semi-pro photography) especially for a beginner. I believe that is the future of drones.
![DJI SPARK In-Depth Flight Test Review - Part 1 - [Gesture Control, Range Test, Selfie & Tracking]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/KbICJI_YW68/mqdefault.jpg)
*Buy the Spark here* goo.gl/tuAuoh
I'll ask my sponsor why that is.
Quadcopter 101 me too
Quadcopter 101 Can I run a syma x5c camera on another quadcopter that has same port?
Just contacted the vendor. The revised coupon is *GBSpark* .
Usually yes.
I think it is much more than a selfie drone. The video is fantastic and is on par with other larger, more expensive drones. Obviously not the p4 or mavic but pretty dam good.
I love mine, especially with the controller.
RC Tanks & Trucks 24/7 all Drones
RC Tanks & Trucks 24/7 yes he didn’t give it enough of a prop of being basically a little brother and still competing with it and it now has a lot of more new features that he didn’t have
Quik Tip: Calibrate compass just before every flight.
The smallest compass errors during flight can cause the aircraft to ignore GPS. (Atti mode). When this happens, *The wind will steal your drone* if you don't have a remote or know how to fly it manually.
Excellent Video sir! Thank's for the tutorial. I purchased a spark a few moths ago. I was so frustrated with the gesture features, that I went back and purchased the remote. Now that I have watched your video, I feel like I can take it out on a vacation and have fun without having to pack the remote. Keep up the great videos!
Good morning! Love the Woodstock T-Shirt. I was conceived in the summer of love.
I was in Erie just yesterday, for a micro brew fest at the Erie Amphitheater right on the Presque Isle bay. A few things to add to your review. I have a DJI Spark as well, but I bought the "Fly More" package, which comes with a 2nd battery and a RC controller (and I also bought a 3rd battery at the same time). It also comes with more props, a nice carrying case, a GOOD Sd card and other extras. If you are serious about using this craft as a TOOL, not just a "selfie drone", I HIGHLY recommend the "Fly More" package. The next thing is that the "Gestures" need to be done properly. For example, when you were giving the gesture for it to take a picture, your thumbs and forefingers were not touching. You will get better results if your thumbs touch your forefingers, forming a frame. This is spelled out in the instructions as well in DJI Instruction videos for the Spark (they have an entire series of 3 min. apps to show you how to correctly operate it). I did try Gesture control myself, and everything worked straight away, as I had watched the instructional videos first. It would be nice to allow for video, not just pics, in gesture mode. That will probably come as they update the firmware. Flying with the RC (and making the connection between your phone and the RC with an OTG cable), puts this into the Camera Bird category. Everything, the RC, the craft, 3 batteries, spare props, phone, OTG cable and cell phone ALL fit in the nice carry all case you get in the Fly More package. I stick this case in my carrier satchel on the back of my bike, and I'm ready to ride out into the country and use it as a camera bird. Using the RC, I've pushed it out to past 1/2 mile and still had a solid lock on control. It is advertised as being able to go 1.2 miles, and I've seen guys go further. However, this one has a realistic battery flight time of 12-14 minutes, depending on the wind. It doesn't fly very fast (because of the obstacle avoidance system), unless you put it into sport mode (which disables obstacle avoidance), and in sport mode, its very fast (25mph). Its a good and portable little craft, and I've already posted a few videos to my YT channel using it. Enjoy the PA. weather .. much cooler than the dessert. Cheers.
Bill Somrak you always put giant comments on quadcopter101 videos
My comments are always well considered and thoughtful. I think they are much more meaningful than those who simply post "First", or some other inane comment. FWIW, I post long and thoughtful comments on most TH-cam channels I follow regularly.
Bill Somrak Amen to relevant comments and not the absolutely STUPID "First" that some post. Who really cares if someone is "First".
I like Bill's comments in that he always keep me honest ;-) , touching on subjects that I might have missed or overlooked in prep for the video
The next DJI Go 4 app release will include the option to do Videos with Gesture .. read that today. The app is in "pre-release". Thought you might like to know.
I just got one of these a while ago, and it's phenomenal, range is really really good, hand gestures work (with patience) and sport mode is absolutely disgusting! So fast and still maintains GPS lock, good for long fast flight.
Of course I bought the deluxe version with remote, travel pack, extra battery, props, base charger and sd card
I have the fly more combo and its amazing. I have a video on my channel showing the features and comparing it to my Dji Phantom 3 Standard. I also demonstrate the gestures for gesture mode.
Hey @Quadcopter101 in your description you said that this drone was a 5 mp stills camera but the dji website said it was a 12 mp. And BTW I love your review on this. I have this drone and have flown it for birthdays and events. Everyone I worked for love this little guy and it's a great investment
That's true, its sensor is 12MP. But the pictures that you take may not be. You need to be aware that it automatically changes the image size based on the particular shooting mode that you're using as follows. And unfortunately, there's no way to change the following:
3968×2976 when shooting without tracking an object
1440×1080 when tracking an object in ActiveTrack or Gesture mode
1440×1080 with ShallowFocus
2300×1280 with Pano (horizontal)
960×1280 with Pano (vertical)
For example, the photos in the above video were all taken in Gesture mode. The image size for each picture was only 1440*1080p (less than 2MP).
As always the best review around 😎 nice job buddy
As others have commented, this is a completely different bird with the remote. It is unfair to classify this as a selfie drone because it is so much more than that. This is a fully featured hi tech product that can really only be compared to other Dji drones. I can't imagine anyone buying a Mavic without the remote and I think Dji has made a mistake in selling the Spark that way. Most of the unfavourable reviews I have seen are by people that do not have the fly more combo. I hope that you are able to get the remote and revisit this for another review. Spark is not the fastest quad by any means but in sport mode she is so much fun to fly. So stable and rock solid in the air even in wind that would ground some of my other birds. I started the hobby with toy grade birds which I still do fly. Graduated to brushless and some racers which I really enjoy, but none of them can compare to the quality of the Spark. This is by far the best bird in my collection. Thank you for all of your reviews, enjoy your vacation and get the remote!
I want one!! I currently have only toy grade drones one with gps. I agree everything ive seen on the spark all the videos you need the controller. Nice last name too Ive only met one other Bond in my 40 yrs. My family creed is The world is never enough just like the Bond movie I wonder if were related some how.
My last name is Bond BTW I didnt realize my account uses my e-mail Metalhead10777@gmail
With the newest firmware you can start recording in gesture mode by raising your right arm to a 45 degree angle after you wave it away.
What good is gesture control if you have to use a smart phone or a tablet to set it up and to get it started?
Nicely done. One of your better videos. I like when you use different locations to do the reviews 👍
You're awesome man. Keep doing what you're doing!
NICE VIDEO ...LIKE TO ASK IF YOU KNOW HOW TO TURN THE LIGHT OFF ON THE PHONE USING THE ALL ON HUBSAN 501A AIR PRO
Seeing you set the Spark with gesture mode, does that mean you have to keep your phone on and nearby? Or can you turn the cell off and work directly with the Spark? Thanks
have u flown all the quadcopters that are present in the market😎
i think u have. 😏. and hope u enjoy ur outing
There are several versions/companies making the same drones, he probably did'nt test all the brands - but this channel is the go-to place for any drone produced since 2015 haha. He must be a work-a-holic :)
is it possible to make helix quickshot with gesture control?
Great job, as always, Gerard! Loved the video. I just sent my Meadow Green Spark to the hospital yesterday 😕 (pilot error) (but I have Care Refresh). I don't mind saying, I prefer to fly it more than my Mavic. Yes, the Mavic is significantly more capable, but something about this little guy (WITH the fly-more combo) irresistible. So I'll miss it.
Have you ever done a review on the Parrot Bebop? Would love to see one!
Hello quadcopter101. Jesse here from the Philippines. I would just like to clarify what you said in the video that, when using Gesture mode, the Spark does not use GPS but rather it's vision positioning system to tell itself where it is in relation to the ground and to the pilot. Is this accurate?
I have one query about gesture detection how is it deone detected gestures can u tell the mechanism of that which sensor or camera used for detecting geature pls tell me
What do you think about some people reporting random flyaways? Some sort of manufacturing defect or just pilot errors?
As with most GPS drones, this one requires a compass calibration. This is especially true when you receive it, or if you travel to a new area to fly it. As its small size makes it an ideal travel drone, got a feeling that a some of those were caused by an improperly done (or not done at all) compass calibration.
hi sir my spark failed for hand gesture, i used it once then every time i use hand gesture it failed, hope you can help me, thanks
Watch this video starting at 13:08
@@Quadcopter101 i've already done this but it doesn't work, front light doesn't turn green just flashing yellow and turn to red again, thanks sir..
Well this video is from 5 years ago. There likely has been changes in the current firmware of the drone.
@@Quadcopter101 thank you sir for the reply
Thank you for your very informative video! Very nice sir!
Sorry, but this one does have stunning video. I can't tell the difference between the Spark and a Mavic on the equipment I have, and I will never own a 4K computer or TV to play 4K back on. 5K 6K 7K just around the corner, are we going start bagging 1080P and 4K.
Could you please do a review on the Cheerson CX23?
@quadcopter 101. What do you use to record your audio. It blocks out the drone very well. And how are you editing / syncing the sound with the drone video ?
I'm using the built-in microphone on my standard Mobius hat camera goo.gl/GngCcz
And I use VSDC fre video editor to edit and sync up my videos www.videosoftdev.com/free-video-editor
It really is free, and very powerful, but not very intuitive to use. Fortunately there are many TH-cam tutorials on its use.
I very much like you Mr Quadcopter man, your videos is nice!
Hi sir im from 🇵🇭 Philippines im one of your fan. My dream is to have a drone someday because i can't afford a drone like this.. If i have one. I will really take care of it and take it as a treasure.. More power for your channel and always take care.. You are my idol.
Optical positional stabilization seems more appropriate since OIS is a camera term
I agree that Spark have many new features, but sadly DJI block so much old feature. I hope in future DJI will give those old features too by updating the firmware.
Is the rocket mode set able for distance thanks
Amazing the Spark!
Oh boyo, how things have changed in the drone market since your earliest quadcopter videos came out :) .
I have this little beast too. It is wicked!
between DJI Spark and Zerotech Dobby, which would you recommend for photoshoot and wefie?
Spark of course. Dobby is just too short a flight time.
Quadcopter 101 yeah..better picture quality too..
Only 1080p wow... it's not a video camera... wtf dude... I think it's the best camera ever...
Hi guys! Can you recommend me race drone with longest fligh time?
Start the video recording with the controller before you do gesture mode and it will record everything from taking off your hand to landing back on your hand..
Now you can start recording in gesture mode by raising your right arm to a 45 degree angle after you wave it away.
What part of Pennsylvania? If you don't mind me asking
From Pittsburgh to Erie
Quadcopter 101 I live in greensburg
Excellent video review of the Spark. But guess I would still choose the Mavic. 👍
Happy you finally flew the spark. Sad that you didn't really think much of it.
+Tonofbrickz I like it a lot. Not sure what you mean?
Tonofbrick
New firmware allows video recording in gesture mode.
You almost lost a finger to that wind there hehe. I have been waiting for your review, because you're seasoned, impartial and not easily impressed. This Spark seem very advanced yet very unconventional, I like it. The stable and sharp image quality is amazing. How would you judge it's actual flying abilities?
I got the one without controller. Was mainly interested in this as a vacation photo/video drone, not as a sport drone. Thus I really can't attest to its flight abilities. But others are saying good things about it.
Great video,
It looks like Helix is still not working well with Android phoned :-(
Great video
You got all the cool toys 😋
gesture mode won't work for me. the compass is calibrated, beginner mode is off, and advanced palm control is on. it just doesn't work
Hold your hand up. Move closer or farther until the quadcopter's lights change from red and start blinking green (acquiring mode). Then hold your hand very steady *until the quadcopter's lights turn solid green* (it's acquired your hand). Then it should work after that.
is that Detroit?
Yehey may request for the DJI spark 😚
Wow, beautiful grass compared to the school where you normally fly. But that takes winter and SNOW 🌨, so forget that.
I totally disagree with this guy I have the Spar and it does so much more than he says. The camera is as good if not better than a lot of others. The thing is it works so much better with the remote
you have to retract your statement about it not doing pro work cuz it can actually its just not 4k
Duet aeroplane I was looking at planes why not check it out I think you might like it looks like good one
awesome
Dude - your shirt!! 🤤
You are doing the hand gesture wrong... you do it with stretched palms and only thumbs touching each other
Você Vende
wow
Cool :3
You aren't holding fingers well lol it's not a bug this is your fault.
Dude I love your videos but you go way off track then what your description says, get on with the video, don't stand there and talk about things we already know!! We know about the SD card and where to charge it all that good stuff we know it, we come to your videos for help a lot of the time just like now, but we have to set here and listen to a bunch of junk we already know, get on with the description!!
Too cool
my name is jeff
city is my england
Trust you BUT NOT DJI!
It looks like the ideal birthday present for a narcissistic geek. Otherwise I can't see the point.
My philosophy is anything you bring home need to serve two or more purposes. With a selfie drone, you get the fun part and - if needed - the documentation parts covered. Also, it takes away the need for a camera and an expensive smartphone. If the selfie drone is a capable flyer too, it takes away the need for owning several drones each serving their own purpose (racing, selfie, semi-pro photography) especially for a beginner. I believe that is the future of drones.
Second
Lol
third xD
Quit calling them quadcpters call them drones
4th
Have you ever done a review on the Parrot Bebop? Would love to see one!