I value my reputation as an independent journalist more than any relationship with a brand. If you feel my content can't be independent, or that I'm moderating criticism for "free stuff" please take time to read this before commenting ▶︎ tinyurl.com/AAA-brands Here's the background to my DJI Neo experience. I had to agree not to publish anything while testing the Neo - fine. I was asked to let DJI see the videos before release - also fine because I do that with all my review videos in case the company wants to comment. I make clear at the start I won’t change stuff just because they don’t like it. I was sent some “talking points” along with the promotional video I’ve included (the flips etc). I didn’t look at the talking points until after I finished the video. These are my honest unfiltered opinions of the Neo and X1.
Thanks for this excellent video, and it confirms what I have thought for quite a while about the Neo. And that is that it excels as a simple to use drone for the sole purpose of follow me/ direction tracking use for cyclists/ runners/ walkers. But The moment you start adding the controller into the mix, then it is no longer the simple care free drone and tiny package it was, and there on, you're better off with a standard mini drone.
Just the kind of video I enjoy, short enough but superbly detailed. Have pondered getting a drone for a while but would need it for 'fast/fun' use not to create super complex content. Neo looks perfect from both a functionality and more importantly price for what I'd use it for.
DJI does have an impressing offering; This is a tough decision for many any easy one for many. I do have multiple DJI's, but I went with the HOVERAir's X1offering for (reported) video quality over the Neo.
You've answered all the questions i have, great comparison. Many thanks! i think they are both really good machines, but I think i'll consider the Neo over X1.
I was looking to buy the hover X1 but neo is better in specs but the X1 pro and pro max which are coming soon are pretty way more expensive than Neo. So i went and got the Neo and it does the job for my social media clips!! And you answered all the questions that i think anyone is looking for!!!
Nearly half the price of x1 that’s got me interested, never had a drone , would want a decent cheap basic one like the Neo to get the shots I’d need just for my own personal photos and footage, great review 👍🏼
Interesting to see the comparison I fly the bigger DJI Air 3 like you say takes a bit of time to set up for me personally need the extra obstacle avoidance and wind resistance features of the Air 3 but would consider the Neo for social media if I didnt have it, thanks for sharing very interesting 😁
I will buy the Neo-the price makes it too tempting not to, and I think your review has sealed that. If I had a concern, it would be overheating, or at least performance in the heat. I nearly bought DJI's cam, but that is supposed to suffer even worse than Gopro. So much so, it is now heavily discounted-when you can get it. I am a little concerned they released this so late in the season-an unusual time for a device like this. But, the price and features make it too valuable not to I think. PS. Fantastic video - as always. Going to have to go and wander round your archive again now
September seems to be the release window for a lot of tech - GoPro, iPhones... Neo has overheated for me but only when left turned on indoors. The airflow cools it.
@@alwaysanotheradventure I'd never noticed the release date thing. But I suppose it mirrors what one sees in gaming. Just in time for Christmas. Odd, I just buy this sort of thing for myself. Perhaps I just have mean relatives :)
Great reviews! I was considering the HoverAir, however, after your review I’m going for the NEO, mainly because its newer tech and price. I may later consider the HoverAir Pro if I find these devices useful for future applications. I appreciate your honest comparison!
That's a good point - use the cheapest (Neo) to learn how and whether you'll use a device like this. Then look around and see what's best. No point in buying the most expensive then finding you don't use it!
@@alwaysanotheradventure Due to some discounts on the x1 and shipping costs for the neo, I can get either at similar prices. Which would you suggest if the price was the same?
@@anthonyacquah9393 Do you need it to fit in your pocket easily - if so the X1. If not, the Neo. Both great for casual shots. However, if you're making content for videos, then the new X1 Pro. I'm flying it at the moment (not enough for a video yet) and it's very good, albeit more expensive.
@@alwaysanotheradventure The price of the X1 Pro w/ beacon requires you to put $800+ down for the "ski package". Whereas you can use your phone with the DJI for a fraction of the price. Am I missing something here?
There's no doubt the Neo will be a lot cheaper, so if it suits your budget, go for it. I'm sure the old X1 will price c rash, but then the Neo is better. I deliberately haven't watched or read too much about the new X1 Pro / Max because I hope to form my own opinion, so you're probably better informed than me!
10min video on the X1 Pro coming on Sunday. I haven’t shot the Neo comparison yet but - they’re the same size (roughly) and the X1 Pro is much better. However it’s a lot more expensive, so as always, “it depends” 😁
Thanks for the time and effort shown. I can agree with your points. I have the X1 and dome other DJI's as well. I have the X1 Pro Max on the way. I know it is in a different category as well besides these 2, do you happen to have one of those you are testing as well?
I have asked for one 😁. I’m slightly put off ordering by the fact they haven’t allowed in their pricing for UK customs adding a %. I’ve been caught that way before and things have doubled in price on my doorstep.
@@alwaysanotheradventure ouch! Ok, hopefully they aid you. I am in the US, I purchased the Ski Combo for the Pro Max. I have loved my X1 but want the new one for the Omni Terrain over water for my Canoe video. The UK duty and potential to double sounds horrible. Your channel is great and a potential good outlet for them to use for promotion if the new units work as we all hope. Thanks again!
Also, it looks like the updated app will allow easier control of the X1 as well as the Pro series with Joystick Style On Screen controls on the app. Again, thank you and best of luck!
I had a mad moment on Friday morning and ordered a neo fly more pack and also the new garmin 1050, going to give my hoverair to my granddaughter when I visit her in the Borders in November.
@alwaysanotheradventure she's worth it, going to enjoy the cycling Borders around Peebles and Innerleithen, also looking at hotels for next year to recreate a route I did when I was Directors chef at Thomas Cook Head office, cycling from New York to Moscow, without leaving UK, New York is in Lincolnshire and Moscow Ayrshire. Might end up in premier inns as need to charge my Mondraker Dusty R gravel ebike due to knee arthritis.
@alwaysanotheradventure and Washington Tyne and wear, during the pandemic I looked at doing a world tour without leaving the UK have a list of about 50 places including Gotham, Bethlehem, California, Gibraltar
I’m itching to use it like that! I haven’t climbed for so long I’m not sure where I’d test that. There might be an altitude issue - when flying remotely it uses downward sensors to ‘know’ where it is. If it was being operated by the controller then no worries but then it’s just like any other drone.
@@alwaysanotheradventure okay, so if I understand correctly, it will be limited in vertical lift if tracking? If that's the case I guess this is a safety feature? Would love to find a solution to shoot good close-up footage of climbing without the need of a third person to operate whatever camera is being used. I sport climb single pitch routes, which in the UK are up to 30m max. Spain, Greece etc the pitches can be up to 50m, sometimes a bit more. Having a drone that could AI track would the perfect camera for me. Thanks for your reply.
I've never owned a drone, but I want to get either a hoverair pro or dji neo. The problem is that I don't know how much I'd be using it considering there aren't many places where I would be able to fly it (there aren't many places to freely explore where I live). So I have a lot of hesitation about paying a lot more for a hoverair pro when I could pay much less for a neo and get a feel for what it is like. I like the form factor and tech of the hoverair pros, but there are too many questions still unanswered for me and will need to wait until reviews of those come out. Regardless, I'm excited we have these choices- ten years ago I had imagined something like this where a camera would follow you around, etc, and finally glad to see it a reality. Only downside is the sound of the propellers since I am very interested in ambient noise and the atmosphere around me. It's the main reason I may not use them.
The big difference is between the Neo and the HoverAir X1 ( not Pro or Pro Max) is that the Neo has GPS. You can fly it like a normal drone. And I would always get the Fly more Combo with controller! You won't lose a lot money if you sell it again. So perhaps give it a try. For me the propeller guards and size are actually what the Neo is about. Even though it is loud, people won't start crying as easily. It looks harmless if you know what I mean. The ambient noise you can record and add yourself. Unfortunately the app not only filters out the drone, but also the rest except your voice. Don't forget a drone is just a tool like the others. To make an interesting video you need a story, a camera, maybe sound recording, and a fast computer for editing. The video editing software is probably hardest to learn and most time consuming. Nobody will watch a video of drone flying around a bit. You need imagination and creativity. Before you head out you make a script of what exactly you want to film. Then you make sure you have plenty footage to make a choice. To be honest I hardly ever edit a video myself. First I have to buy a new computer. Or I scale down everything to 720p or 1080p. Which is absolutely fine for YT. All this 4k nonsense is for cry babies looking for something to cry about. 4k says nothing about the overall quality.
You didn’t mention it, but I think the top speeds might be a deal breaker if you are a cyclist. The X1 has a much higher top speed in follow mode I believe.
15mph for X1 and 18mph for Neo. In reality they're about the same. I know DC clocked his at 13mph. The wind makes a huge difference - whether flying with or against. I've used the Neo on five different rides now. It won't keep up if you're powering along on the road, but then perhaps you shouldn't be flying above a road? Off-road where you tend to go a bit slower I've found it to be fine. All the aerials of me riding in this video are from the Neo th-cam.com/video/jb0Vh01It_s/w-d-xo.html
I have both...the X-1 is more compact....The Neo is more versatile as you can fly it with more controllers..and can do more proper drone stuff...I bought these for the "flying Selfie stick"..and NOT as a drone . I have the Mini 4 Pro and the Mavic Air for proper drone stuff..I bought the Neo because I alreadty had the other compatible controllers...I would NOT have bought the NEO and then spent hundreds extra for the controller. I think the Neo is going to be a huge seller for the casual drone flying who just wants to play with a drone as cheaply as possible...but saying that I have seen the Mini SE on sale at Sams club for $250....so as you said it all comes down to what YOU want to do with it...
Sunday I'm putting live a video with the X1Pro which comes close to being one which straddles both worlds - the flying camera and drone, although at a price. I agree, the Neo will do well, especially with a firmware update that allows 25fps that we use in Europe.
Dji is a bigger company. So they can release a successor in 6 months. Just look at the Osmo Action 3 to 5 Pro. I would wait for Dji next move. With the Hover Air, there is/was no eco-system. So the drone need to be as complete as possible. That is why the Air X1 is so expensive. The Neo shares technology with previous drones. The Hover Air X1 Pro can track a beacon remote. With Dji only the more expensive drones have this feature. So hopefully Hover can force Dji to put more features in the smaller drones.
I had the Hover and sold it got the Neo but the direct tracking is not good it always flies to the side and then it eventually crashed I never experienced that with the Hover.
One of the first things the App tells you is not to fly over water - I suspect the downward sensors that work out its height get confused by the reflection off the surface. That said, I have seen someone on youtube trying to get his Neo to follow his sea kayak - with mixed results.
Just on price alone, the Neo has it. Why do I say that? Because both appeal to me as someone who is thinking about getting their first drone. The X1 has 'pocket-ability', but the neo is half the price. I would be really interested in seeing the functions of the neo, and how they compare to the semi autonomous functions of the X1.
This is a follow-up video Mark. The full performance of the Neo is in my original review video, linked during the video, at the end and in the video description th-cam.com/video/KaRNE7Jl9E8/w-d-xo.html
Most vertical socials just want 720p to upload, 1080 at most, so there's loads of picture to crop to Vertical like this th-cam.com/users/shortsDfBcuHGq1_I
I think if you already have the HoverAir X1 there is no need to buy the Neo. Better just wait for an upgrade on the Neo which I expect DJI will release next year or pay the very high cost for the HoverAir Pro / Pro Max. I already have the HoverAir X1 which I have hardly used, the Pro and Pro Max are just too expensive in my opinion for my use case. I may consider them if their prices significantly drop or I’ll just wait till next year for a new Neo which I expect they will release really quickly to compete with the new HoverAir drones. Plus I already have several DJI products so easier to link the products as the use the same eco system
Hi - I need reveal shots of restaurants and bars, do you think the noise will be prohibitive with people walking past, is the X1 quiter. I only need 5 or 6 meters high plus starting 10 15 meters out.
Neo (both!) need bright, open spaces - indoors or out. I suspect a restaurant would be too dark for the down-facing sensors to know how high it was. The Neo is quieter and a lot less annoying a sound than the X1, but probably not for your use case.
@@alwaysanotheradventuresorry no my description meant shooting outside not inside, but you've kind of answered the question anyway. I listened to the noise and it seems high pitched. I'm definitely only going to use the phone as I don't want to bring and set up a controller - I only need 2 or 3 second for the reveal shot. I have a lot of equipment on me so the less the better - thanks for your reply - your videos are great 👍🏻
I just wish you could buy the Neo base model for 199 and then later decide if it's worth buying the controller. You can, of course, however the price of the separate controller is way too high. If the controller cost 50 I'd order the Neo right away, see if I like it enough to spend more money on it, and buy the controller then.
Here in Australia the Standard HoverAir X1 is $559 and the Combo is $649 rising to $709 for Combo Plus while the Neo is $306.81 and the Neo Fly More Combo is $539 So looking at prices only a Neo Fly More Combo is still $20 cheaper than the HoverAir Standard
Is there a speed limit when cycling with these? I'm tempted with the Neo, looks an absolute bargain but I was wondering what happens if you get to a downhill section and speed increases to 20, 30mph. Can it follow at those speeds? Edit - just seen your reply below where you state it's 18mph for Neo.
Any drone with follow-me will drop you if you exceed its capabilities. These small drones have relatively tiny props and use their whole body to stabilise so flying backwards is hard for them. If I could get weather without a wind (Scottish summer!) I’d test Neo with my bike and see what speed it dropped me.
It does. In my review video (in the description of this one) you'll see it doing its thing. It hit a tree on one flight, span around, found me again and started tracking again! It will only do 18mph, so belting downhill or riding hard into a headwind will loose it.
Dc Rainmaker has produced a full video on this. Given that it has no obstacle avoidance he knew it would collide if he took through woods, etc. He was interested in how well it survived impacts! It did well. I think it would be a good idea to check out his test video also. But remember, he is interested in sports cycling/running so he also found it could not keep up faster than around 13 MPH. But most drones struggle much faster than this.
Sorry, Simon. Didn't see your reply. Rainmaker found it lost him above around 13mph - I wonder if it has had a firmware upgrade since he tried it or was it perhaps just the conditions he filmed in?
The firmware update came just before release, so we probably used the same version. If there's a strong wind, having the thing track with the wind behind it really does help, because into the wind it will struggle. I also tend to shoot on a hill because a0 the shot is more interesting b) lasts longer and c) any of these small drones copes better. Even with the Mini 3 Pro I sometimes have to soft pedal a bit to allow it to track.
I just sold my X1 for more than the cost of a Neo but I think I'm going to get the new X1 Pro from Indigogo. The reaons to pay a lot more over the Neo is (i) the Neo doesn't fold - that has been brilliant on the X1 and (ii) the fkying speed of the X1 was often too slow to capture the gravel riding adventures and the Neo at 21kph while following seems no faster. The new X1 Pro has a 2 axis gimbal, better camera, better tracking performance, longer bsttery life and tracking speed up to 42kph with burst of 60kph to get into position. Once you add the Beacon and remote attachments it gets a lot more expensive thsn the Neo with remote but it appears to be next level in performance. Its a difficult decision particularly when i am still using the original DJI Mini (v1) from 2019 and the remote on that is arcaic and not compatible. From all that ive seen of the Neo, its just not up to the cinematic quality of any of the DJI Minis due to its one axis gimbal. Maybe if i buy a Mini 3 or 4 with the compatible remote then i could just ger the Neo but then i woukd have to live with the slow 21kph tracking speed - thars ok some of the time but too many times Ive left the X1 behind with its similar speed. I turn around and see it lost me as i was moving too fast.
That all seems sound provided the X1 Pro hits the shipping target of 31 Oct 24. Interestingly they don't cover customs fees to countries outside the US, so it makes it a little tricky to know how much it will cost in total.
@@alwaysanotheradventure it’s true Zero Zero were a little over time on Indigogo program for the Hover X1 but here in Australia didn’t have any extra customs fees even though we have 10% GST. But either way the cost of even the X1 Pro on its own is a lot more than a Neo with the remote. It’s just that follow speed and camera of the Neo that’s got me concerned. Maybe I just hold off and see what happens with the X1 Pro after release. Maybe the DJI neo product will force prices down.
I published this video before the Neo was launched, th-cam.com/video/jb0Vh01It_s/w-d-xo.html All the aerials in it at from the Neo rather than my usual Mini 3 Pro. No-one said, "wow you're aerials suddenly look crap". It's almost half the price of a GoPro and it flies. It weighs 135g. Obviously it's not going to have utterly amazing picture quality. Neither does a GoPro if you compare it to a BlackMagic or Red - or even one of my old Canon Cinema Cameras. This is why I stress - it's a personal choice and you need to have the courage of your convictions. I could continue to carry the Mini 3 Pro (and I will on some shoots. Or I could rent a bigger drone. But for most of the videos I make, it's good. It's about context and content. The big question is how much better will the new X1s be? I'm hopefully going to be getting one in the near future. Meanwhile, I have a video due next Sunday where, again, all the aerials are on the Neo and I think they look good.
@@BlackPrimeMinisterhe got me too. I follow people that answers comments. I hate it when they mention in their video comment below and ask questions but you never see them answer. That's a sign to sub someone else.
I've compared both, currently have the X1 but the Pro & ProMax have better specs than the Neo. Also, the upgraded gimbal on the Pro has 2 axis vs the Neo with 1. I also love the fact that the H1 fits right in any pockets, the Neo would require some kind of case to carry. Battery life on the X1 Pro/ProMax is comparable to the Neo now.
May I ask why is your footage with hiccups? Did you film at different framerates? For most shots I advise you to shoot at 60 fps and then covert them to what suits you better (24, 30, etc). Às these drones have no mechanical shutter, it makes little difference shooting at 24, 30 or 60 (it makes at low light, at 24 it’ll gather more light). The Neo is a GREAT idea but in this version, half baked: no front sensors, very little software options and too small battery. 3 batteries for 15 minutes = 3x 1 km and come back; 1 battery for 45 minutes means you can go 3 km and come back. This not to say I expected it to last that long, but front sensors AND at least 25 minutes real flight time is the minimum. At a so slow pace, the Neo will need to return to base quickly and if you want to shoot something even no too far, it won’t cut it (slow speed, difficulty to fly with wind etc). I’m waiting for the next generation, it might improve on these things. As of now, I might buy it on sale (Fly more when
One additional factor: Noise. Both in decibels and pitch. You're not going to use either if they're too loud and screaming. Not only disturbing to wildlife but also the others who may be in near vicinity. Thank you for excellent reviews.
Look at dc rainmakers review .. the neo seems utterly useless if you’re biking and get up to speed (anything above 20 mph). For mtb, skiing, snowboarding the neo looks like it will struggle.
Neither the X1 or Neo will track backwards over 20mph. I highlighted this in the X1 in June ‘23. If you only ever want to film yourself riding or sliding at this speed they’re not for you.
It's a somewhat unfair comparison. Comparing an 'old' drone with a new release. Perhaps it would be fairer to compare it with the new X1 PRO or even better with the X1 PROMAX, and either of them would crush the new NEO from DJI.
I’m comparing two that are available to buy and use now. The X1 pro and max are not, they’re on kickstarter with shipping possibly as late as October 31st. I will when I can.
Honest comparison. I've had the X1 and liked it a lot for biking. It was just to slow for many shots. Was in doubt whether to buy the Neo or wait for the Hover Pro and went for the Pro. It's faster and my experience with the X1 was good. Also the foldable design is a very big plus for me. Looking forward to your review of the Pro or Pro Max 😉👍
Yep that’s the Android issue. DJI is one of several manufacturers who’ve had long standing issues with Android and the different makes of phone running the OS
I really enjoy your videos!!! I am a avid cyclist and hiker and have been doing a Canadian Fitness TV show called Body Break for 36 years. When I am now out riding I didn't want to stop and take shots because I just want to enjoy the ride and be in the moment but these small light wight drones seem to do the trick. Because of you I didn't buy the neo but because of your video it took me down the rabbit hole of TH-cam and I ended up buying the Hover ProMax. All off the things that you liked about the Neo appear to be in the Hover drone and I really like the Beacon add on that locks into you and you don't have to check if it is following you. Again thank you for your very professional entertaining information. Hal Johnson
I also opted for the HoverAir, ordered the HoverAir Pro cycle combo + added the joysticks for those long range sweeping shots. Most of the Neo reviews seem to avoid the elephant in the room, the all 4k footage I've seen from this and other reviews looks horrible from the Neo, maybe it will get fixed in an update.
![[LIVE] นาทีนี้ต้องพี่ทนาย | ทนายแก้ว vs ทนายไพศาล | #คุยให้เด็กมันฟัง EP.47 (02/11/67)](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/HmquaO-PL_M/mqdefault.jpg)
I value my reputation as an independent journalist more than any relationship with a brand. If you feel my content can't be independent, or that I'm moderating criticism for "free stuff" please take time to read this before commenting ▶︎ tinyurl.com/AAA-brands
Here's the background to my DJI Neo experience. I had to agree not to publish anything while testing the Neo - fine.
I was asked to let DJI see the videos before release - also fine because I do that with all my review videos in case the company wants to comment. I make clear at the start I won’t change stuff just because they don’t like it.
I was sent some “talking points” along with the promotional video I’ve included (the flips etc). I didn’t look at the talking points until after I finished the video.
These are my honest unfiltered opinions of the Neo and X1.
I wouldn't worry about it. Seem reflective of the products.
I like how you gave us the answer before we even saw the comparison. It made me want to watch it to the end. This is helpful.
I got to say, your content is 10/10 and getting better. Thanks for all those days in the saddle and on the trail!
Thanks for this excellent video, and it confirms what I have thought for quite a while about the Neo.
And that is that it excels as a simple to use drone for the sole purpose of follow me/ direction tracking use for cyclists/ runners/ walkers.
But The moment you start adding the controller into the mix, then it is no longer the simple care free drone and tiny package it was, and there on, you're better off with a standard mini drone.
Hey! I wanted to comment to say that this is the best review / comparison I’ve seen for the Neo and furthermore… it’s genuinely entertaining! Cheers!
That's an excellent comparison between the two devices. Yes, it all depends on the perspective of the user. As always❤
Fantastic honest review , I'll be purchasing the Neo based on what you have said 😊😊😊
Just the kind of video I enjoy, short enough but superbly detailed. Have pondered getting a drone for a while but would need it for 'fast/fun' use not to create super complex content. Neo looks perfect from both a functionality and more importantly price for what I'd use it for.
Glad it was helpful!
DJI does have an impressing offering; This is a tough decision for many any easy one for many. I do have multiple DJI's, but I went with the HOVERAir's X1offering for (reported) video quality over the Neo.
Great review! Great comparisons and loved the focus on simplicity! New sub too!
You've answered all the questions i have, great comparison. Many thanks! i think they are both really good machines, but I think i'll consider the Neo over X1.
I was looking to buy the hover X1 but neo is better in specs but the X1 pro and pro max which are coming soon are pretty way more expensive than Neo. So i went and got the Neo and it does the job for my social media clips!! And you answered all the questions that i think anyone is looking for!!!
Thanks
Nearly half the price of x1 that’s got me interested, never had a drone , would want a decent cheap basic one like the Neo to get the shots I’d need just for my own personal photos and footage, great review 👍🏼
Thank you so much. You've done just the video I was looking for.
The wind is a big factor especially if your flying a distance with the Neo
You could lose that being blown away
Subbed I liked your review thank you
Absolutely. I mostly fly in remote or hilly environments and I'm aware of the wind whatever drone I'm flying.
Great comparison video. I like your style!
Just the video I was looking for. Thank you.
Glad I could help
Interesting to see the comparison I fly the bigger DJI Air 3 like you say takes a bit of time to set up for me personally need the extra obstacle avoidance and wind resistance features of the Air 3 but would consider the Neo for social media if I didnt have it, thanks for sharing very interesting 😁
Great content and production values!
I will buy the Neo-the price makes it too tempting not to, and I think your review has sealed that. If I had a concern, it would be overheating, or at least performance in the heat. I nearly bought DJI's cam, but that is supposed to suffer even worse than Gopro. So much so, it is now heavily discounted-when you can get it. I am a little concerned they released this so late in the season-an unusual time for a device like this. But, the price and features make it too valuable not to I think.
PS. Fantastic video - as always. Going to have to go and wander round your archive again now
September seems to be the release window for a lot of tech - GoPro, iPhones... Neo has overheated for me but only when left turned on indoors. The airflow cools it.
@@alwaysanotheradventure I'd never noticed the release date thing. But I suppose it mirrors what one sees in gaming. Just in time for Christmas. Odd, I just buy this sort of thing for myself. Perhaps I just have mean relatives :)
Very great review - subscribed ✨
I bought a Neo! Cheers Andy.
Hope you enjoy it - you can have a play with this one later this week.
Great reviews! I was considering the HoverAir, however, after your review I’m going for the NEO, mainly because its newer tech and price. I may later consider the HoverAir Pro if I find these devices useful for future applications.
I appreciate your honest comparison!
That's a good point - use the cheapest (Neo) to learn how and whether you'll use a device like this. Then look around and see what's best. No point in buying the most expensive then finding you don't use it!
@@alwaysanotheradventure Due to some discounts on the x1 and shipping costs for the neo, I can get either at similar prices. Which would you suggest if the price was the same?
@@anthonyacquah9393 Do you need it to fit in your pocket easily - if so the X1. If not, the Neo. Both great for casual shots. However, if you're making content for videos, then the new X1 Pro. I'm flying it at the moment (not enough for a video yet) and it's very good, albeit more expensive.
Awesome content -I will be hiking a lot, so the DJI NEO appears to be the right choice for me.
If you don’t already have an X1 I’d urge you to hold off until we see what the X1 Pro can do. Hopefully I’ll get one soon.
@@alwaysanotheradventure The price of the X1 Pro w/ beacon requires you to put $800+ down for the "ski package". Whereas you can use your phone with the DJI for a fraction of the price. Am I missing something here?
There's no doubt the Neo will be a lot cheaper, so if it suits your budget, go for it. I'm sure the old X1 will price c rash, but then the Neo is better. I deliberately haven't watched or read too much about the new X1 Pro / Max because I hope to form my own opinion, so you're probably better informed than me!
Nice review and I like the intro video to you channel. Have just discovered it and will subscribe and look forward to seeing more of your videos
Awesome, thank you Andrew
Went a purchased the Neo this afternoon and must get creating some videos again @@alwaysanotheradventure
great review!!! Subscribed!
Great review, thank you Sir. 💚 🎉
excellent comparison, what about the neo and the x1 pro or pro max?
10min video on the X1 Pro coming on Sunday. I haven’t shot the Neo comparison yet but - they’re the same size (roughly) and the X1 Pro is much better. However it’s a lot more expensive, so as always, “it depends” 😁
thanks for the review
Great review. I think il get the neo
Thanks for the time and effort shown. I can agree with your points. I have the X1 and dome other DJI's as well. I have the X1 Pro Max on the way. I know it is in a different category as well besides these 2, do you happen to have one of those you are testing as well?
I have asked for one 😁. I’m slightly put off ordering by the fact they haven’t allowed in their pricing for UK customs adding a %. I’ve been caught that way before and things have doubled in price on my doorstep.
@@alwaysanotheradventure ouch! Ok, hopefully they aid you. I am in the US, I purchased the Ski Combo for the Pro Max. I have loved my X1 but want the new one for the Omni Terrain over water for my Canoe video.
The UK duty and potential to double sounds horrible. Your channel is great and a potential good outlet for them to use for promotion if the new units work as we all hope.
Thanks again!
Also, it looks like the updated app will allow easier control of the X1 as well as the Pro series with Joystick Style On Screen controls on the app. Again, thank you and best of luck!
I had a mad moment on Friday morning and ordered a neo fly more pack and also the new garmin 1050, going to give my hoverair to my granddaughter when I visit her in the Borders in November.
She's very lucky. I bought the 1050 too and sold the old 1030 on eBay for a decent price.
@alwaysanotheradventure she's worth it, going to enjoy the cycling Borders around Peebles and Innerleithen, also looking at hotels for next year to recreate a route I did when I was Directors chef at Thomas Cook Head office, cycling from New York to Moscow, without leaving UK, New York is in Lincolnshire and Moscow Ayrshire. Might end up in premier inns as need to charge my Mondraker Dusty R gravel ebike due to knee arthritis.
Perhaps you could go via Toronto. (County Durham) maps.app.goo.gl/Ddv6VFnqPKrbvZYR9
@alwaysanotheradventure and Washington Tyne and wear, during the pandemic I looked at doing a world tour without leaving the UK have a list of about 50 places including Gotham, Bethlehem, California, Gibraltar
@@FENCYCLIST Don't forget to visit Dallas, Aberdeenshire
Great video! Thanks for the comparison. Do you think the Neo would work for tracking a person rock climbing?
I’m itching to use it like that! I haven’t climbed for so long I’m not sure where I’d test that.
There might be an altitude issue - when flying remotely it uses downward sensors to ‘know’ where it is. If it was being operated by the controller then no worries but then it’s just like any other drone.
@@alwaysanotheradventure okay, so if I understand correctly, it will be limited in vertical lift if tracking? If that's the case I guess this is a safety feature?
Would love to find a solution to shoot good close-up footage of climbing without the need of a third person to operate whatever camera is being used. I sport climb single pitch routes, which in the UK are up to 30m max. Spain, Greece etc the pitches can be up to 50m, sometimes a bit more. Having a drone that could AI track would the perfect camera for me. Thanks for your reply.
outstanding content! thanks.
Great review
Thank you.
I've never owned a drone, but I want to get either a hoverair pro or dji neo. The problem is that I don't know how much I'd be using it considering there aren't many places where I would be able to fly it (there aren't many places to freely explore where I live). So I have a lot of hesitation about paying a lot more for a hoverair pro when I could pay much less for a neo and get a feel for what it is like. I like the form factor and tech of the hoverair pros, but there are too many questions still unanswered for me and will need to wait until reviews of those come out. Regardless, I'm excited we have these choices- ten years ago I had imagined something like this where a camera would follow you around, etc, and finally glad to see it a reality. Only downside is the sound of the propellers since I am very interested in ambient noise and the atmosphere around me. It's the main reason I may not use them.
Great point - these things are amazing.
The big difference is between the Neo and the HoverAir X1 ( not Pro or Pro Max) is that the Neo has GPS. You can fly it like a normal drone. And I would always get the Fly more Combo with controller!
You won't lose a lot money if you sell it again. So perhaps give it a try. For me the propeller guards and size are actually what the Neo is about. Even though it is loud, people won't start crying as easily. It looks harmless if you know what I mean. The ambient noise you can record and add yourself. Unfortunately the app not only filters out the drone, but also the rest except your voice.
Don't forget a drone is just a tool like the others. To make an interesting video you need a story, a camera, maybe sound recording, and a fast computer for editing. The video editing software is probably hardest to learn and most time consuming. Nobody will watch a video of drone flying around a bit. You need imagination and creativity. Before you head out you make a script of what exactly you want to film. Then you make sure you have plenty footage to make a choice. To be honest I hardly ever edit a video myself. First I have to buy a new computer. Or I scale down everything to 720p or 1080p. Which is absolutely fine for YT. All this 4k nonsense is for cry babies looking for something to cry about. 4k says nothing about the overall quality.
@@driewielgreat reply!
Amazing content, thank you
Glad you think so
@@alwaysanotheradventurestraight to the point, no nonsense unlike other TH-camrs, and detailed review, creds to you
You didn’t mention it, but I think the top speeds might be a deal breaker if you are a cyclist. The X1 has a much higher top speed in follow mode I believe.
15mph for X1 and 18mph for Neo. In reality they're about the same. I know DC clocked his at 13mph. The wind makes a huge difference - whether flying with or against. I've used the Neo on five different rides now. It won't keep up if you're powering along on the road, but then perhaps you shouldn't be flying above a road? Off-road where you tend to go a bit slower I've found it to be fine. All the aerials of me riding in this video are from the Neo th-cam.com/video/jb0Vh01It_s/w-d-xo.html
I have both...the X-1 is more compact....The Neo is more versatile as you can fly it with more controllers..and can do more proper drone stuff...I bought these for the "flying Selfie stick"..and NOT as a drone . I have the Mini 4 Pro and the Mavic Air for proper drone stuff..I bought the Neo because I alreadty had the other compatible controllers...I would NOT have bought the NEO and then spent hundreds extra for the controller. I think the Neo is going to be a huge seller for the casual drone flying who just wants to play with a drone as cheaply as possible...but saying that I have seen the Mini SE on sale at Sams club for $250....so as you said it all comes down to what YOU want to do with it...
Sunday I'm putting live a video with the X1Pro which comes close to being one which straddles both worlds - the flying camera and drone, although at a price. I agree, the Neo will do well, especially with a firmware update that allows 25fps that we use in Europe.
Tienes que compáralo con el X1 max-Pro mas,el x1 hace 1 año que salió y el Neo 3 días seamos coherentes.saludos
That’s not yet available and won’t ship until the end of October. I can’t yet compare with it.
Cool !!
Thank you for sharing
Dji is a bigger company. So they can release a successor in 6 months. Just look at the Osmo Action 3 to 5 Pro. I would wait for Dji next move.
With the Hover Air, there is/was no eco-system. So the drone need to be as complete as possible. That is why the Air X1 is so expensive. The Neo shares technology with previous drones.
The Hover Air X1 Pro can track a beacon remote. With Dji only the more expensive drones have this feature. So hopefully Hover can force Dji to put more features in the smaller drones.
I had the Hover and sold it got the Neo but the direct tracking is not good it always flies to the side and then it eventually crashed I never experienced that with the Hover.
great video
Thanks!
Great video. Sub added 👍
Do you know if it can be flown over water or follow a kayak? Many thanks
One of the first things the App tells you is not to fly over water - I suspect the downward sensors that work out its height get confused by the reflection off the surface. That said, I have seen someone on youtube trying to get his Neo to follow his sea kayak - with mixed results.
X1! Neo doesn’t fold. If I wanted massive drone that I cannot pack away I’d just grab my mini 4
‘Massive’? 😁
@@alwaysanotheradventure relative the X1…yeah. Otherwise Mini 4 right?
Just on price alone, the Neo has it. Why do I say that? Because both appeal to me as someone who is thinking about getting their first drone. The X1 has 'pocket-ability', but the neo is half the price.
I would be really interested in seeing the functions of the neo, and how they compare to the semi autonomous functions of the X1.
This is a follow-up video Mark. The full performance of the Neo is in my original review video, linked during the video, at the end and in the video description th-cam.com/video/KaRNE7Jl9E8/w-d-xo.html
@@alwaysanotheradventure Oops. Didn't see that. Thanks for the re-direct.
If I am correct the Neo won’t film portrait which a lot of socials work for reels work with. Perhaps they can sort it with an update?
Most vertical socials just want 720p to upload, 1080 at most, so there's loads of picture to crop to Vertical like this th-cam.com/users/shortsDfBcuHGq1_I
@@alwaysanotheradventure I guess it preference but I’d rather not have the hassle of cropping. Although I’ve not editing software to do it.
CapCut on the phone is free and very easy to use
@@alwaysanotheradventure o shall have a look thank you.
I want a drone that can video me riding from the front and/or the side. The DJI looks like it likes to follow or maybe the side only?
Neo does front and back, and DJI says side track is coming. It’ll track from the front, flying backwards at 18mph
I think if you already have the HoverAir X1 there is no need to buy the Neo. Better just wait for an upgrade on the Neo which I expect DJI will release next year or pay the very high cost for the HoverAir Pro / Pro Max.
I already have the HoverAir X1 which I have hardly used, the Pro and Pro Max are just too expensive in my opinion for my use case. I may consider them if their prices significantly drop or I’ll just wait till next year for a new Neo which I expect they will release really quickly to compete with the new HoverAir drones. Plus I already have several DJI products so easier to link the products as the use the same eco system
Pretty much exactly what I said.
Hi - I need reveal shots of restaurants and bars, do you think the noise will be prohibitive with people walking past, is the X1 quiter. I only need 5 or 6 meters high plus starting 10 15 meters out.
Neo (both!) need bright, open spaces - indoors or out. I suspect a restaurant would be too dark for the down-facing sensors to know how high it was. The Neo is quieter and a lot less annoying a sound than the X1, but probably not for your use case.
@@alwaysanotheradventuresorry no my description meant shooting outside not inside, but you've kind of answered the question anyway. I listened to the noise and it seems high pitched. I'm definitely only going to use the phone as I don't want to bring and set up a controller - I only need 2 or 3 second for the reveal shot.
I have a lot of equipment on me so the less the better - thanks for your reply - your videos are great 👍🏻
What shall I do now? Sell my 2 months old x1 and buy the neo as I have the dji air 3? Or just wait for neo 2 and sucks it up
Good question
Excellent
I just wish you could buy the Neo base model for 199 and then later decide if it's worth buying the controller. You can, of course, however the price of the separate controller is way too high. If the controller cost 50 I'd order the Neo right away, see if I like it enough to spend more money on it, and buy the controller then.
Here in Australia the Standard HoverAir X1 is $559 and the Combo is $649 rising to $709 for Combo Plus while the Neo is $306.81 and the Neo Fly More Combo is $539
So looking at prices only a Neo Fly More Combo is still $20 cheaper than the HoverAir Standard
Is there a speed limit when cycling with these? I'm tempted with the Neo, looks an absolute bargain but I was wondering what happens if you get to a downhill section and speed increases to 20, 30mph. Can it follow at those speeds? Edit - just seen your reply below where you state it's 18mph for Neo.
Any drone with follow-me will drop you if you exceed its capabilities. These small drones have relatively tiny props and use their whole body to stabilise so flying backwards is hard for them. If I could get weather without a wind (Scottish summer!) I’d test Neo with my bike and see what speed it dropped me.
@@alwaysanotheradventure That would be good to know. Thanks.
Hi,how do you find the neo when following you on a bike ride, does it keep up ok?
It does. In my review video (in the description of this one) you'll see it doing its thing. It hit a tree on one flight, span around, found me again and started tracking again! It will only do 18mph, so belting downhill or riding hard into a headwind will loose it.
Dc Rainmaker has produced a full video on this. Given that it has no obstacle avoidance he knew it would collide if he took through woods, etc. He was interested in how well it survived impacts! It did well. I think it would be a good idea to check out his test video also. But remember, he is interested in sports cycling/running so he also found it could not keep up faster than around 13 MPH. But most drones struggle much faster than this.
Sorry, Simon. Didn't see your reply. Rainmaker found it lost him above around 13mph - I wonder if it has had a firmware upgrade since he tried it or was it perhaps just the conditions he filmed in?
The firmware update came just before release, so we probably used the same version. If there's a strong wind, having the thing track with the wind behind it really does help, because into the wind it will struggle. I also tend to shoot on a hill because a0 the shot is more interesting b) lasts longer and c) any of these small drones copes better. Even with the Mini 3 Pro I sometimes have to soft pedal a bit to allow it to track.
Is there any difference in video bitrate quality at 4K and 1080
They haven’t given bitrate details
Neo, duh 😊
I just sold my X1 for more than the cost of a Neo but I think I'm going to get the new X1 Pro from Indigogo. The reaons to pay a lot more over the Neo is (i) the Neo doesn't fold - that has been brilliant on the X1 and (ii) the fkying speed of the X1 was often too slow to capture the gravel riding adventures and the Neo at 21kph while following seems no faster. The new X1 Pro has a 2 axis gimbal, better camera, better tracking performance, longer bsttery life and tracking speed up to 42kph with burst of 60kph to get into position. Once you add the Beacon and remote attachments it gets a lot more expensive thsn the Neo with remote but it appears to be next level in performance.
Its a difficult decision particularly when i am still using the original DJI Mini (v1) from 2019 and the remote on that is arcaic and not compatible. From all that ive seen of the Neo, its just not up to the cinematic quality of any of the DJI Minis due to its one axis gimbal. Maybe if i buy a Mini 3 or 4 with the compatible remote then i could just ger the Neo but then i woukd have to live with the slow 21kph tracking speed - thars ok some of the time but too many times Ive left the X1 behind with its similar speed. I turn around and see it lost me as i was moving too fast.
That all seems sound provided the X1 Pro hits the shipping target of 31 Oct 24. Interestingly they don't cover customs fees to countries outside the US, so it makes it a little tricky to know how much it will cost in total.
@@alwaysanotheradventure it’s true Zero Zero were a little over time on Indigogo program for the Hover X1 but here in Australia didn’t have any extra customs fees even though we have 10% GST. But either way the cost of even the X1 Pro on its own is a lot more than a Neo with the remote. It’s just that follow speed and camera of the Neo that’s got me concerned. Maybe I just hold off and see what happens with the X1 Pro after release. Maybe the DJI neo product will force prices down.
Neo 100%
I've seen the Neo get savaged for it's camera quality in other reviews.
I published this video before the Neo was launched, th-cam.com/video/jb0Vh01It_s/w-d-xo.html
All the aerials in it at from the Neo rather than my usual Mini 3 Pro. No-one said, "wow you're aerials suddenly look crap".
It's almost half the price of a GoPro and it flies. It weighs 135g. Obviously it's not going to have utterly amazing picture quality. Neither does a GoPro if you compare it to a BlackMagic or Red - or even one of my old Canon Cinema Cameras.
This is why I stress - it's a personal choice and you need to have the courage of your convictions. I could continue to carry the Mini 3 Pro (and I will on some shoots. Or I could rent a bigger drone. But for most of the videos I make, it's good. It's about context and content.
The big question is how much better will the new X1s be? I'm hopefully going to be getting one in the near future.
Meanwhile, I have a video due next Sunday where, again, all the aerials are on the Neo and I think they look good.
@@alwaysanotheradventure You do know that when you provide a detailed and thoughtful reply like that you get an instant subscriber, right?
Thank you 😁.
@@BlackPrimeMinisterhe got me too. I follow people that answers comments. I hate it when they mention in their video comment below and ask questions but you never see them answer. That's a sign to sub someone else.
3 reason,s to choose the Neo, Affordability, Price, Cost.
And fpv
I've compared both, currently have the X1 but the Pro & ProMax have better specs than the Neo. Also, the upgraded gimbal on the Pro has 2 axis vs the Neo with 1. I also love the fact that the H1 fits right in any pockets, the Neo would require some kind of case to carry. Battery life on the X1 Pro/ProMax is comparable to the Neo now.
My understanding the X1 Pro is it's not yet in production and will cost around double the Neo. hard to do a comparison yet.
May I ask why is your footage with hiccups? Did you film at different framerates? For most shots I advise you to shoot at 60 fps and then covert them to what suits you better (24, 30, etc). Às these drones have no mechanical shutter, it makes little difference shooting at 24, 30 or 60 (it makes at low light, at 24 it’ll gather more light).
The Neo is a GREAT idea but in this version, half baked: no front sensors, very little software options and too small battery. 3 batteries for 15 minutes = 3x 1 km and come back; 1 battery for 45 minutes means you can go 3 km and come back. This not to say I expected it to last that long, but front sensors AND at least 25 minutes real flight time is the minimum. At a so slow pace, the Neo will need to return to base quickly and if you want to shoot something even no too far, it won’t cut it (slow speed, difficulty to fly with wind etc).
I’m waiting for the next generation, it might improve on these things. As of now, I might buy it on sale (Fly more when
One additional factor: Noise. Both in decibels and pitch. You're not going to use either if they're too loud and screaming. Not only disturbing to wildlife but also the others who may be in near vicinity.
Thank you for excellent reviews.
The Neo is quieter and less high pitched.
max pro?
Not shipping until Oct 31st
Look at dc rainmakers review .. the neo seems utterly useless if you’re biking and get up to speed (anything above 20 mph). For mtb, skiing, snowboarding the neo looks like it will struggle.
Just watched DC Rainmakers video too. Doesn't look like the DJI likes to fly backwards to get a front video of a rider.
Neither the X1 or Neo will track backwards over 20mph. I highlighted this in the X1 in June ‘23. If you only ever want to film
yourself riding or sliding at this speed they’re not for you.
I have no problem getting Neo to track backwards filming me riding forwards unless there’s a wind.
@@alwaysanotheradventure Good to know. Thanks!
Hover must be so pissed off DJI have launched this
I think they’re confident they have something better coming soon, albeit more expensive
X1 looks better then NEO is so overhyped
It's a somewhat unfair comparison. Comparing an 'old' drone with a new release. Perhaps it would be fairer to compare it with the new X1 PRO or even better with the X1 PROMAX, and either of them would crush the new NEO from DJI.
I’m comparing two that are available to buy and use now. The X1 pro and max are not, they’re on kickstarter with shipping possibly as late as October 31st. I will when I can.
Just wait for the Neo 2 to arrive !
Honest comparison. I've had the X1 and liked it a lot for biking. It was just to slow for many shots. Was in doubt whether to buy the Neo or wait for the Hover Pro and went for the Pro. It's faster and my experience with the X1 was good. Also the foldable design is a very big plus for me. Looking forward to your review of the Pro or Pro Max 😉👍
2023vs 2024
How good will 2026 be? 😁
NOT compatible with all phones. If your phone is not compatible, and you bought one of those drones , you´re done.
Yep that’s the Android issue. DJI is one of several manufacturers who’ve had long standing issues with Android and the different makes of phone running the OS
Neo got no snapshot😮
Yes it does.
I'm sorry. The scenics are not good. The footage looks like a 5 year old cheap action cam.
Then we disagree. That's fine.
The X1 seems overpriced. And I wished the Neo was more silent.
79db for the Neo is not too bad, but yes, the quieter the better.
Canna change the law of physics!
@@gmivisualsjason3729 could make bigger propellers, add 4 blades instead of 3. Lighter materials etc. They have the tech.
The X1 is even louder than the Neo
@@gbej1 how's that relevant for my comment?
I really enjoy your videos!!! I am a avid cyclist and hiker and have been doing a Canadian Fitness TV show called Body Break for 36 years. When I am now out riding I didn't want to stop and take shots because I just want to enjoy the ride and be in the moment but these small light wight drones seem to do the trick. Because of you I didn't buy the neo but because of your video it took me down the rabbit hole of TH-cam and I ended up buying the Hover ProMax. All off the things that you liked about the Neo appear to be in the Hover drone and I really like the Beacon add on that locks into you and you don't have to check if it is following you. Again thank you for your very professional entertaining information.
Hal Johnson
Hey Hal - there are definitely times to ride with no drone!!!
I hope that new X1 Pro (or MAx) works out for you when they’re eventually shipped.
I also opted for the HoverAir, ordered the HoverAir Pro cycle combo + added the joysticks for those long range sweeping shots. Most of the Neo reviews seem to avoid the elephant in the room, the all 4k footage I've seen from this and other reviews looks horrible from the Neo, maybe it will get fixed in an update.