I see that you had a conversation about being “Given” the drone, with the implication that the review would be favourable. I understand that there would be some expectation of bias when given a drone for “free”, but I honestly don’t see your channel that way. Considering all the planning that went in to travelling to the Lake District, setting up the shots, editing the footage to make the TH-cam video, as well as learning the nuances of the new drone, coupled with the explanation of all the features of the drone….I’d say you put in a lot of work equal at least to the value of the drone. You do the work to make understanding the “pros AND cons” of the drone easy. I think that deserves a free drone along with any bells and whistles that the company provides you. I’m also sure your honest appraisals help drone companies develop their next iterations, so….thanks for all the work and keep up the good work.
Thank you, and spot on. Over a week of work and over 14 hours of editing went into producing a video less than 20 minutes long. 🤠. If there was any issue, I would have mentioned it...👍🏻👍🏻
I know how it works from others. DJI give you additional money not only the drone. Also they give you a script which contains what you have to say and what not. So I know s lot of youtubers who quit with DJI . Same happens to Insta360 and they reduces their expectations. In addition a video should be marked permanently as advertising. Neither in Britain nor in Germany the people does. So in my opinion this is everything but not honest.
@MichasWelt No, you're completely wrong, certainly for the smaller channels like me. I got no extra money; I had no script; DJI did inlude guidance points on specs and features for me to try out but they gave no restrictions and I was free to criticise. I made sure the review was exactly the same as if I had bought the drone with my own money. So it's completely honest, as pretty much all regular viewers on my channel will know...
@@IaninLondon OK thanks, that is a new information for me because other youtuber told me this what i claimed before. So that sounds logical and thank you for the explanation 🙂
Hey Dewie! Good to hear from you! Yeah, you could always get the N3 single battery version; your existing 3 batteries will work fine as will your RC2 remote :) Take care man!
Thank you Ian.🙏 I just got home from our DJI store with my 3S on release day. You brought out so much that was new to me. Free Panorama and Obstacle Avoidance were highlights for me. 📷💜💜💜
Thanks for the review got mine Monday and had to wait till the rain stopped. I especially love the settings to get rid of that jerkiness in the other vid you did. I completely forgot this thing detects manned aircraft as a military helicopter flew near my house as I was going through the first flight. Mind Blowing!!🤯 Greetings from New Orleans, new Subscriber for sure, Cheers mate!
I'm waiting for delivery of my Air 3S and will be selling my Air 3. I'm switching to the Air 3S for the improved one inch sensor, from the videos I have review this new lens system is awesome. Thanks for the great review.Cheers
A beautiful explanation of the Air 3S with outstanding video-examples. The Lake District looks like a must-visit. One of best reviews I've seen. I will buy Air 3S - when my trusty Air 2S gives up. Or maybe sooner. (I would love that 70 mm zoom.)
This is definitely the drone to upgrade to when I graduate up from the sub-250gm class. Right now just so spoilt by the relative freedom of the sub-250gm, and its portability
Great review! Before the announcement of the 3S I kept telling myself to hold off and to just be happy with my Air 3 for now. But I didn't listen to myself and ended up ordering the 3S the moment it became available on DJI's website lol. I have no self-control when it comes to DJI but I'm super excited to have it in my collection, I can't wait for it to arrive!
It looks like a nice upgrade from the mini 4 or earlier models. If you have the 3 air I don’t really see the point for myself. Still has the 2.7 portrait mode the 1” sensor I don’t see being a game changer for myself. The pluses are all the improvements in the communications and same battery size.
Hi Ian another great video providing excellent info… I sold my Mini Pro 4 and bought Air 3s! I’ve been on the fence ever since re whether to return it and buy another Mini P4 Pro! However the specs the 3s has is impressive and certainly an excellent upgrade to the Mini P4. I’m hoping I can fly the Air 3s locally restrictions permitting!
Thanks again Ian! I passed my operators ID test a couple of weeks ago! It’s a difficult decision to make between having the freedom to fly in more places less restrictions and vice versa… the specs of the Air 3s look amazingly too good to turn down! I’m hoping I can get as much pleasure of flying the Air 3s in built up areas with restrictions! I’m even considering doing the A2 C of C Course for obvious reasons however it looks daunting! I know you passed it a sometime ago! I can’t afford to own 2 drones therefore I’ve chosen to keep the best a newer consumer / pro drone!
Nice update to already decent drone. One thing is lacking for me is compact and foldable controller, as now it’s a great hassle to do selfy shoots while holding the rc , especially for cycling skiing etc
So you're an influencer now Ian?! Great review, and looking forward to more detail. I still love the 3:2 native Air 2S sensor with 88 deg FOV, but this is pretty tempting even though 4:3 like the rest now. Any comparison between 12 and 50MP Raw modes? That's the big one for me, as the 20MP native Raws on the Air 2S are very editable.
Brilliant review. Just bought one. My first drone. Super excited to start flying. Should I adjust my expo settings. Until I gain more experience. Thanks again from Ontario Canada.
Some TH-camrs (e.g., Billy Kyle, Quadricottero magazine Italy ) have reported lower Mbps values on the AIR3s, such as 60Mbps at 4K 30fps and 80Mbps at 4K 60fps in the normal profile. They’ve shared full clips to download their videos to confirm this. What do you think? What Mbps values have you detected? thank you (can you share some clips if the value are differents results please? (AIR3 at 4k 60 fps = 130-150 Mbps)
I've been flying DJI drones since the Phantom 3 in 2014. I've owned and flown many of their models including the Inspire 1 and Inspire 2 with the X5S camera. I even owned the GoPro Karma and the Parrot ANAFI. Loved the ANAFI. I have been using two Air 2S drones for a few years now. I think this is a great drone but I kind of wish DJI would stop with the multiple cameras sort of thing. The Mavic 2 Zoom was amazing (I owned it and the Mavic 2 Pro) with a 24-48mm optical zoom. Sure, it was a variable aperture that couldn't be adjusted, but I loved that it was optical zoom. DJI has been going with 24mm for a long while and I like the wider 22mm on the Air 2S. My ideal perfect drone from DJI would be something like a 22-65mm or even better a 20-70mm f/2.0-f/2.8 variable aperture zoom on a modest 12 megapixel 1-inch sensor up to 60fps in 4K and 120fps in 1080p at least. Of course 4K at 120fps is great too but to me the 20-70mm optical zoom ... with a controllable aperture and / or auto exposure lock that raises ISO to compensate when in shutter priority mode, now that would be my dream affordable drone. If they launched that at $1,500 or even $2,000 I'd buy two in a heart beat!
Out of curiosity with this new release. What would you choose, mavic 3 pro or air 3s now? Will the variable aperture and 5k on the mavic 3 pro be worth the price?
For me personally, I don't like the size of the Mavics; I have got too used to flying smaller models and like the Air 3 and 3S size. 5K seems no different to 4K unless you're cropping a lot. The Air3S has a large aperture and yet still manages decent focus, so Air 3S for me all the way.
Your Lake District review was excellent and resulted in me going out and getting the Air 3s. As a matter of interest, how do you transport/carry your drone and controller when hiking like in the Lake District?
Hey Ian thanks for sharing your awesome footage and testing out the long awaited Air 3s. I think I'm actually going to sell my Mavic 3 Pro and get this one. I skipped the Air 3 because I knew the Air 3s was going to have a 1" sensor. Great video great footage and great drone.
Wow Ian this looks a great drone if only I spent more time in rugged country side like the Lake District it would definitely be my go to drone. Thank you for a very detailed great video, lucky you a great new drone to add to your collection 😂
I always appreciate your productions from the Lake District. I think I saw the ghost of Wordsworth in one of the clouds. The Air 3 S-exciting stuff, my friend. Outstanding review!!! I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud BY WILLIAM WORDSWORTH I wandered lonely as a cloud That floats on high o'er vales and hills,
A lovely video to watch and a truthful appraisal, with the caveats about fixed aperture and slower transfer speed (although I don't understand what that means). A while ago I watched your video on high wind capabilities amongst various models, I think it was the 2 series drones and you were trying them in the remnants of a storm, with 35 or 40mph winds. It would be interesting to see another one of these with the more modern models tested. Have you seen SAFEHAVEN MARINE and the drone photography/videos they do of their all weather boats out off Cork harbour? Frank is using an Air 3 at the moment (or was) and last month was sea trialling a new boat in Force 11, with drone footage shot in those conditions. I think these flying cameras are more capable than many people think. I am still using my Mavic2pro, because of the adjustable aperture, that and because I am reluctant to spend more on camera kit now I am semi retired!
Mavic 2 Pro is a brilliant solid beast of a drone; great in strong winds and very good camera. It's what I filmed my volcano footager in Iceland with too...
Another great review, Ian. I've been wanting to upgrade my Air2. Was considering adding a Mini 4 Pro to the fleet (well that would make it a fleet of 2!) but maybe just upgrading to this one. I have lived in the UK and most recently Italy. Unfortunately I am back in the USA for a few months. I hope to be back in Europe around the first of the year and wondering should I get this now or wait and buy back in Europe.
Very nice video and work explained!one question :the obstacle avoidance works 360° all the time if you press the arh?if it need it will raise the altitude by it self (if finds a big tower for example)or will fly to the preset altitude that you have set up to the menu?thanks
Just had my maiden flight and I'm impressed alright, but a couple of things bugging me....fixing gain and expo being Numero Uno... shame it doesnt share the screen when your trying to adjust speeds etc...or is there an easier way? I Guess I need to check out yer Air 3 stuff from a year or so ago. My other bug bear is the remote volume and how to adjust it...I'm assuming it's easy but that easy I can't quite see it... I think I'm going to enjoy this purchase no end...thanks so much for your input Ian, love watching your stuff 🤜💥🤛
Hey Neil; I'm actually filming a video on the gain and expo because it has pretty brutal rotational movement with the default settings. For the volume, just pull down (ie tap and slide down) the top of the screen and you get the screen settings, which includes a volumne control bar. And for now, here's a gain and expo video I did last year; controls are much the same: th-cam.com/video/wwVK87WJuik/w-d-xo.htmlsi=iyL8KQvc7vGWW6aI
@@IaninLondon It doesn't like my fat fingers as I'm tapping and pulling down with no affirmative results...damn it, trip to JB Hi0Fi tomorrow morning ! ! !
As always a very good and detailed overview and a particle demo in a stunning location. Just one point may have been on the cutting room floor what is the actual battery life? Many thanks as always
How do you think that the Air 3s compares to the Mavic 3 classic? I'm trying to figure out if it's worth it or not to migrate from the M3c to the Air 3s.
That's a real hard one, because you've got a bigger sensor on the Mavic 3, but older technology... For video, especially in lower light situations, I would put the air 3s ahead. Functionally, the air 3s has a lot more going for it but I do wish they'd put a larger sensor in
Sorry Ian, yes it does have some impressive specs but it cannot be the perfect drone without having a variable aperture camera. Your blown out sunset / sunrise images prove the point. Keep up the great work 👍
Yes, that's why I mention it.... Trouble is, there is always a price, like more weight, larger size, and whilst I could have lowered the exposure for the sunsets, I'd have lost the ground, which I wanted to capture....
@@IaninLondon Sorry Ian, I wasn’t criticising your work, (some great shots) but just using this as an example of the problem with fixed aperture cameras. I accept that weight and price is a consideration, but this is such a basic camera function that I feel it is something that should now be on the Air range now as standard.
Ian. Great show. Really impressed with latest Air3S. I'm so tempted to upgrade from my Air3. I've just used my Air3 at Worbarrow Bay Dorset recently. I was going up a steep hill. Is there a way of maintaining a uniform height going forward (and up) ?. Mark
You can use cruise control, or just not touch the up stick (or do you mean maintain the same altitude over the ground if the ground is rising? if so, no.
Great video ! did you see a difference in the dynamic range in manual mode exposure on video compare to the auto mode and the 14stops announced (but just in auto). ? great video again !
So, Ian. I have the Air 3. Are you saying that this A3Ss' 1" aperture camera set up will adjust to take care of light extremes on both sides of the light specter? Lidar! Can we link it to mapping technology for work?! Is it built in mapping technology? Do I need to get one to help start a business? We might need to discuss this over a few more lagers mate. Cheers, Brendan 🤘😎🤙
The camera settings will auto adjust for a very large range of light, right down to night time. Lidar is just another form of obstacle avoidance ; not sure it will be compiling any 3D maps soon 😉 And it depends on what business you're starting :)
Thank you so much for the review. I just sell my AIR 3 to take the AIR 3S I think with the new sensor it will be better for photography also. I’m from Belgium I was in September 6-13 with a so nice weather one week in this nice place of Lake District. It’s at this period you make this review ?
Awesome video. Love your enthusiasm. I'm sold. But, I'm also a newbie.... what are the downsides to using the Air 3S in an urban area vs. the Mini 4 Pro?
Well, basically, it's against the rules set by the CAA. You can only fly larger drones like this in open countryside; sub 250 gm drones have fewer restrictions and can be flown in towns
Mate I have not bought a bigger drone than my Air 2s since I got the air 2s because I love it that much that all I have wanted since is the air 3s. I have mini drones but I want that air 2s editing experience with DLog etc but on a newer drone and get to fly in different locations but within the 50m rule, be specific in my flights but get the footage I desire and not just with the mini all the time. Today is an amazing day. Infact it's been an amazing year and I have done so well that I deserve this
@IaninLondon thanks Ian and as many others you have helped me along the way and given me a lot of advice in your videos. 2025 will be a massive year for me and my business so thank you for inspiring me to take the leap in 2022 and onto 2024 and beyond.
Dji claims even the 360 camera sensors have been upgraded to work better in low light, could u please test that how dark it can get ? I was peesonally thinking about that lidar added to the drone, am surprised dji read my mind and made it happen 😅 but thought it would be fornday time as well as low light 😮
I am currently sat in my new campervan in the far North Of Scotland. This afternoon my phone randomly pinged with an email from DJI Retail announcing the launch of the Air3S. I went straight to their Website and in the buying menu selected the 'trade in' option for my old drone. The little darlings at DJI offered me the grand total of £344.00 for my old Air3, RC2 controller and a single battery, really? Yes really. This for a completely undamaged Air 3 Fly More Combo that I bought direct from DJI. I was half tempted to wade into the Ebay swamp to sell my Air 3. Having thought about it again, DJI can keep their drone.
The video quality looked really good on this drone. I only had it in the air for about 10 mins so far to just test out how it felt. I took a little video looked great took some photos. Was not impressed at all. I also noticed if you crop in and snap a shot. Say 70mm 6x digital zoom snap photo the thumbnail shows zoom view but the picture Dng raw file is not cropped it is just 70mm shot. Which is fine you can then crop in on it during post, but wasn’t expecting it. Also the photos seemed to produce more haze than what I am use to with mavic 3. Again I only had a brief flight with it and have to test it further. Just things I noticed right out of the gate. I really wish the 70mm would have been a 1 inch sensor. I guess they are keeping that for the mavic 4. I need to dive a little deeper into the setting also to see if maybe something is missing. I upped the megapixel from the 12 to 48. So maybe that changes things too. Time will tell I guess
Cropping in will only ever be digitial zoom, and I don't rate that ever.... If you need to crop the 70mm lens, I think you're going to get a lot of haze and be pretty disappointed with the result.
@@IaninLondon oh yeah, non of the digital crops would work for sure. Especially on a sensor that size. I mean the right software and processing could maybe get you there in Jpg. I was just surprised it didn’t save what you are visually seeing in your camera. First time I ever zoomed in to snap a shot and saw full sensor photo not cropped photo. But then again maybe it does if you shoot in jpg. It just took me by surprise. The haze I think is more based on the smaller sensor size but more testing will tell for sure. I really wish the 70mm was a 1 inch sensor to capture more dynamic range. Also in just a couple quick test my mavic 3 classic seems to have better optical avoidance than the air 3s. That was a surprise too and made no sense. I was thinking the new lidar sensor was going to step it up when trying to fly forward into a tree. The new start stop panorama is cool and great for some landscapes but I the distortion is still a panorama look. Almost get a better stitch and fill using Lightroom classic to get straighter lines. Maybe my expectations were set a little too high from all the hype around this drone before it came. It’s a good drone packed with a ton of features . I just feel the features need polished a bit to be a great drone. Then again isn’t that DJI they like to wait for that big first update to polish the drone and release some new amazing feature.
I wasn't aware of the full raw file irrespective of digital zoom; I guess why trim a raw fiel when you will be processing in post anyway... The Pano mode is incredible the way it blends the different exposures and you get an end resutl free of light variations; I think you might have slightly unrealistic expectations for its ability to de-warp though :)
Hi Ian, another great review as usual. Quick question please which seems maybe trivial but important to me, the new panoramic feature looks great but does or can it shot the images in RAW. Also I doubt it, but could it also do this with bracketed shots. Kind thanks Keith
Does the automatic "free" panorama work with RAW or is it JPEG only? And can you do a tracking shot with the drone "fixed" behind or in front of you (following behind you or backing up in front of you)?
If right now, in addition to a few different fpv pieces, you currently owned a mini 3 pro, would you consider a refurbished mavic 3 pro, or a brand new Air 3S? I don’t know how vital the variable aperture is as I’ve never flown the mavic series? Air 2 was my first, then the mini 3 pro.
For top end stills only, I would probably just come down with the Mavic 3 Pro, but only just. It's old hardware and the Air 3S produces brilliant results esp in low light. If it's a mix of video and stills you do, then Air 3S. Aperture not that critical as you have ND filters if you're flying anywhere super bright.
@@IaninLondon yeah I think the Air3S is the best option. I’ve always liked the idea of owning the Mavic 3 Pro, but this new Air series piece does most of not all that I want it to. Just hope for some of those lush autumn mornings with the long shadows and low forming mist to test it out on ;) Cheers
Billy Kyle reported that he was disappointed in it's low light capabilities because it didn't have a dedicated night mode. Can you say positively say that the low-light videos with the 3s is superior to the 3? Thank you!
@IaninLondon Thanks. I agree. Using the pixel image size data and physical pixel size of 3.2um plus this looks possible for a 1" / 25.4mm physical sensor. Impressive. My Cannon EOS 90D camera has 32MP, uses the same size pixel of 3.2um and a smaller physical sensor. Also, as you say, the QBF technology would yield 24, 36 or 48MP. I'm no expert but just rational thinking.
@@IaninLondon if you read the specs you'll see for both of the cameras to record at 12 MP or the "effective" 50 MP for the wide angle and 48 MP for the Tele lens. If it was a real 50 MP I believe they wouldn't keep it a secret 🤔
That is an excellent question. Your best bet would be to put the obstacle avoidance into Bypass Mode , and don't fly in Sport mode (when the OA gets switched off). That way it will do it's best to manoeuvre around any obstacle whether or not it's stationary or moving 👍🏻👍🏻
The Air 2S sensor was 3:2 native 20MP. I guess the Air 3S being 4:3 native and 50MP/12MP is the difference. I'd like to know more about the real effective still resolution.
like you I own too many drones, and looking at this there are some compelling features.... however due to owning the Air 3 I just wish they sold the drone only without need for another controller..... also, are the Air 3 batteries compatible save me buying the combo kit?
@@IaninLondon Lets hope so and I suspect it will for about 9 months lol. I am loving my Neo and the Avata 2 now. I keep telling Her Indoors. You cant take it with you and the only way to waste money is not to spend it. Mr Amazon should bring mine tomorrow. Got the RC2 Fly more combo...... This DJI outfit will have us all skint
![BOWKYLION - วิงวอน (ex-change) [Official MV]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/cLdnZWDaO-w/mqdefault.jpg)
Those cloud inversion shots are stunning. Fantastic review, Ian-really well done!
Cheers Mattheww! It was right place at right time! Loved your sunset clips! 🤠👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻
Great video mate, you filmed in one of my favourite locations 👌
Hey Darren... Man that place is just perfect on a sunny day..... :) Love it!
What a place to fly! This drone looks amazing
Lucky with the weather up there Hedley! :)
I see that you had a conversation about being “Given” the drone, with the implication that the review would be favourable. I understand that there would be some expectation of bias when given a drone for “free”, but I honestly don’t see your channel that way. Considering all the planning that went in to travelling to the Lake District, setting up the shots, editing the footage to make the TH-cam video, as well as learning the nuances of the new drone, coupled with the explanation of all the features of the drone….I’d say you put in a lot of work equal at least to the value of the drone. You do the work to make understanding the “pros AND cons” of the drone easy. I think that deserves a free drone along with any bells and whistles that the company provides you. I’m also sure your honest appraisals help drone companies develop their next iterations, so….thanks for all the work and keep up the good work.
Thank you, and spot on. Over a week of work and over 14 hours of editing went into producing a video less than 20 minutes long. 🤠. If there was any issue, I would have mentioned it...👍🏻👍🏻
I know how it works from others. DJI give you additional money not only the drone. Also they give you a script which contains what you have to say and what not. So I know s lot of youtubers who quit with DJI . Same happens to Insta360 and they reduces their expectations. In addition a video should be marked permanently as advertising. Neither in Britain nor in Germany the people does. So in my opinion this is everything but not honest.
@MichasWelt No, you're completely wrong, certainly for the smaller channels like me. I got no extra money; I had no script; DJI did inlude guidance points on specs and features for me to try out but they gave no restrictions and I was free to criticise. I made sure the review was exactly the same as if I had bought the drone with my own money. So it's completely honest, as pretty much all regular viewers on my channel will know...
@@IaninLondon OK thanks, that is a new information for me because other youtuber told me this what i claimed before. So that sounds logical and thank you for the explanation 🙂
what a professional youtuber ...Subscribed... Thanks buddy.
Ian, simply a stellar review of the Air 3s! Thank you.
Thank you! :)
Good stuff Ian! Probably not gonna upgrade from my Air3, but if they keep this up, the Air4 will be my next drone.
Hey Dewie! Good to hear from you! Yeah, you could always get the N3 single battery version; your existing 3 batteries will work fine as will your RC2 remote :) Take care man!
I appreciate the review Ian. The air3S look like an awesome drone.
Thank you Ian.🙏
I just got home from our DJI store with my 3S on release day. You brought out so much that was new to me. Free Panorama and Obstacle Avoidance were highlights for me. 📷💜💜💜
Great to hear! You'll have a great time with this! :)
You are lucky to live in such a beautiful area! TY for the reaction!
Thanks for the review got mine Monday and had to wait till the rain stopped. I especially love the settings to get rid of that jerkiness in the other vid you did. I completely forgot this thing detects manned aircraft as a military helicopter flew near my house as I was going through the first flight. Mind Blowing!!🤯 Greetings from New Orleans, new Subscriber for sure, Cheers mate!
What a beast…. And the drone looks good to!!! Pools an amazing piece of kit Ian. You are clearly excited with it. Keep doing what you do.
Ha! Thanks for the good words! 👍🏻
I'm waiting for delivery of my Air 3S and will be selling my Air 3. I'm switching to the Air 3S for the improved one inch sensor, from the videos I have review this new lens system is awesome. Thanks for the great review.Cheers
A beautiful explanation of the Air 3S with outstanding video-examples. The Lake District looks like a must-visit. One of best reviews I've seen.
I will buy Air 3S - when my trusty Air 2S gives up. Or maybe sooner. (I would love that 70 mm zoom.)
Thank you! :)
Great review Ian and what amazing place to test the new DJI Air 3S, so many features - many thanks for sharing the info
This is definitely the drone to upgrade to when I graduate up from the sub-250gm class. Right now just so spoilt by the relative freedom of the sub-250gm, and its portability
How do you even un-spoil yourself from freedom? Just wait for mini 10 pro with solid state bat and csm radar and 40x tele......
@@Finnv893 40X zoom? I’m just a simple man. 10X will do😄
A well considered and detailed review with some thoroughly stunning footage. Thank you 👍
"Ian is Outdoors"... Love that channel name! :) Cheers :)
Nice one Ian, and the DJI pre-release was a big bonus mate. Great info and loving the footage examples. ❤❤
Yeah, real bonus me getting it in time to do a 2 week field test.... Love it :)
Great review! Before the announcement of the 3S I kept telling myself to hold off and to just be happy with my Air 3 for now. But I didn't listen to myself and ended up ordering the 3S the moment it became available on DJI's website lol. I have no self-control when it comes to DJI but I'm super excited to have it in my collection, I can't wait for it to arrive!
Fantastic video and a great review Ian!
Your review was excellent 👍 Thank you for your work.
Great review sir! I may add it to the fleet later in the year! Thanks again!
Fantastic info Thank you very much Sir.
Thanks 👍🏻👍🏻
Nádherný záběry
Thanks Mate another top review, enjoy your work.
Thanks Ian, great video as always!
Absolutely brilliant.😊
Great work mate as always fantastic video
Cheers 🤠👍🏻
This was a good watch. Thanks for sharing. Love the Lakes! Subbed you because I first saw this over on the forum 👍
Thanks for the good words :)
Looks fantastic. I need one.
Excellent video, thank you! Have you tested the autonomous flight feature? Do you have a video showcasing it?
It looks like a nice upgrade from the mini 4 or earlier models. If you have the 3 air I don’t really see the point for myself. Still has the 2.7 portrait mode the 1” sensor I don’t see being a game changer for myself.
The pluses are all the improvements in the communications and same battery size.
Hi Ian another great video providing excellent info… I sold my Mini Pro 4 and bought Air 3s! I’ve been on the fence ever since re whether to return it and buy another Mini P4 Pro! However the specs the 3s has is impressive and certainly an excellent upgrade to the Mini P4. I’m hoping I can fly the Air 3s locally restrictions permitting!
It's a brilliant model. As long as you're flying in built up areas too much, it's a smart move 👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks again Ian! I passed my operators ID test a couple of weeks ago! It’s a difficult decision to make between having the freedom to fly in more places less restrictions and vice versa… the specs of the Air 3s look amazingly too good to turn down! I’m hoping I can get as much pleasure of flying the Air 3s in built up areas with restrictions! I’m even considering doing the A2 C of C Course for obvious reasons however it looks daunting! I know you passed it a sometime ago! I can’t afford to own 2 drones therefore I’ve chosen to keep the best a newer consumer / pro drone!
Great review Ian - fantastic footage from the lake district. I need to get up and explore that part of the uk.
Hey Jason! Yeah, it's amazing! (When the weather behaves 😉)
Solid review!
Great video Ian, thank you.
Thanks Chip
Nice update to already decent drone. One thing is lacking for me is compact and foldable controller, as now it’s a great hassle to do selfy shoots while holding the rc , especially for cycling skiing etc
Chuck it into a 5 second timer and hide it by your foot ;)
So you're an influencer now Ian?! Great review, and looking forward to more detail. I still love the 3:2 native Air 2S sensor with 88 deg FOV, but this is pretty tempting even though 4:3 like the rest now. Any comparison between 12 and 50MP Raw modes? That's the big one for me, as the 20MP native Raws on the Air 2S are very editable.
Brilliant review. Just bought one. My first drone. Super excited to start flying. Should I adjust my expo settings. Until I gain more experience. Thanks again from Ontario Canada.
I think you can leave the expo settings fo rnow, but try making the other changes I meniton . :)
Some TH-camrs (e.g., Billy Kyle, Quadricottero magazine Italy ) have reported lower Mbps values on the AIR3s, such as 60Mbps at 4K 30fps and 80Mbps at 4K 60fps in the normal profile. They’ve shared full clips to download their videos to confirm this. What do you think? What Mbps values have you detected? thank you (can you share some clips if the value are differents results please? (AIR3 at 4k 60 fps = 130-150 Mbps)
Yes, I'm looking into that as I'm seeing a lot of 60 mb/s and I'm trying to work out why...
I've been flying DJI drones since the Phantom 3 in 2014. I've owned and flown many of their models including the Inspire 1 and Inspire 2 with the X5S camera. I even owned the GoPro Karma and the Parrot ANAFI. Loved the ANAFI. I have been using two Air 2S drones for a few years now. I think this is a great drone but I kind of wish DJI would stop with the multiple cameras sort of thing. The Mavic 2 Zoom was amazing (I owned it and the Mavic 2 Pro) with a 24-48mm optical zoom. Sure, it was a variable aperture that couldn't be adjusted, but I loved that it was optical zoom. DJI has been going with 24mm for a long while and I like the wider 22mm on the Air 2S. My ideal perfect drone from DJI would be something like a 22-65mm or even better a 20-70mm f/2.0-f/2.8 variable aperture zoom on a modest 12 megapixel 1-inch sensor up to 60fps in 4K and 120fps in 1080p at least. Of course 4K at 120fps is great too but to me the 20-70mm optical zoom ... with a controllable aperture and / or auto exposure lock that raises ISO to compensate when in shutter priority mode, now that would be my dream affordable drone. If they launched that at $1,500 or even $2,000 I'd buy two in a heart beat!
Great review Ian.
Out of curiosity with this new release. What would you choose, mavic 3 pro or air 3s now? Will the variable aperture and 5k on the mavic 3 pro be worth the price?
For me personally, I don't like the size of the Mavics; I have got too used to flying smaller models and like the Air 3 and 3S size. 5K seems no different to 4K unless you're cropping a lot. The Air3S has a large aperture and yet still manages decent focus, so Air 3S for me all the way.
Thanks for the review Ian, definitely one I’ll be looking at to replace the venerable P4 Advanced 😂.
Great review Ian and the Air 3s really looks good. I may get it in the future for now I have preordered the Hover X1 Pro Max.
Thanks Lyn. Yeah, it's a great one.... Pro Max? Going for that 8K :) Great stuff!
Thank You! You are THE ONLY ONE who has answered the "free panorama" question!
Pemandangan indah 🙂👍
Might be time to upgrade my Air2S me thinks. Thanks Ian.
🙂💙👍Thank You Ian this maybe my Next DJI Drone🙂💙👍Great Video 🙂
Your Lake District review was excellent and resulted in me going out and getting the Air 3s. As a matter of interest, how do you transport/carry your drone and controller when hiking like in the Lake District?
Hey Ian thanks for sharing your awesome footage and testing out the long awaited Air 3s. I think I'm actually going to sell my Mavic 3 Pro and get this one. I skipped the Air 3 because I knew the Air 3s was going to have a 1" sensor. Great video great footage and great drone.
For me, this is a better size and weight than the Mavic 3, and as said, beats it in many areas too.....
Here it is!! Had so much fun with this amazing new drone; what are your thoughts?
Any prices released yet Ian?
@@MrScottishborn All on this one: th-cam.com/video/FFVEdPKEnLA/w-d-xo.html
Already ordered mine.
Brilliant aurora photos!! I was farting around on the ground trying to dodge trees with my DSLR. I never thought to try it with my drone. Great work.
Wow! If only we could fly it in towns, here in the UK.
I love it, but will have to resist the temptation until the CAA starts to see sense.
Wow Ian this looks a great drone if only I spent more time in rugged country side like the Lake District it would definitely be my go to drone. Thank you for a very detailed great video, lucky you a great new drone to add to your collection 😂
Thanks Karen. Yeah, I had great fun and was lucky with the weather too. It's a brilliant drone!
I always appreciate your productions from the Lake District. I think I saw the ghost of Wordsworth in one of the clouds. The Air 3 S-exciting stuff, my friend. Outstanding review!!!
I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud
BY WILLIAM WORDSWORTH
I wandered lonely as a cloud
That floats on high o'er vales and hills,
I wandered lonely like a sheep, lost on yonder hill, dale and mountain, stuck in filming and trying to remember my lines....... Take care George!!
Fantastic and informative video, do you lnow if the new panorama mode also produces RAWS of the individual shots?
Yes it does. Doing a video on the Free pano mode and I'll show how to get them output, but I have tested and it does output raw if you tell it to
This is an impressive drone indeed. Great video
Thanks Miguel! It really is....
A lovely video to watch and a truthful appraisal, with the caveats about fixed aperture and slower transfer speed (although I don't understand what that means). A while ago I watched your video on high wind capabilities amongst various models, I think it was the 2 series drones and you were trying them in the remnants of a storm, with 35 or 40mph winds. It would be interesting to see another one of these with the more modern models tested. Have you seen SAFEHAVEN MARINE and the drone photography/videos they do of their all weather boats out off Cork harbour? Frank is using an Air 3 at the moment (or was) and last month was sea trialling a new boat in Force 11, with drone footage shot in those conditions. I think these flying cameras are more capable than many people think. I am still using my Mavic2pro, because of the adjustable aperture, that and because I am reluctant to spend more on camera kit now I am semi retired!
Mavic 2 Pro is a brilliant solid beast of a drone; great in strong winds and very good camera. It's what I filmed my volcano footager in Iceland with too...
Another great review, Ian. I've been wanting to upgrade my Air2. Was considering adding a Mini 4 Pro to the fleet (well that would make it a fleet of 2!) but maybe just upgrading to this one. I have lived in the UK and most recently Italy. Unfortunately I am back in the USA for a few months. I hope to be back in Europe around the first of the year and wondering should I get this now or wait and buy back in Europe.
It's slightly cheaper in the US but the warranty will only work and ship to the country of purchase....
Very nice video and work explained!one question :the obstacle avoidance works 360° all the time if you press the arh?if it need it will raise the altitude by it self (if finds a big tower for example)or will fly to the preset altitude that you have set up to the menu?thanks
Just had my maiden flight and I'm impressed alright, but a couple of things bugging me....fixing gain and expo being Numero Uno...
shame it doesnt share the screen when your trying to adjust speeds etc...or is there an easier way? I Guess I need to check out yer Air 3 stuff from a year or so ago.
My other bug bear is the remote volume and how to adjust it...I'm assuming it's easy but that easy I can't quite see it...
I think I'm going to enjoy this purchase no end...thanks so much for your input Ian, love watching your stuff 🤜💥🤛
Hey Neil; I'm actually filming a video on the gain and expo because it has pretty brutal rotational movement with the default settings. For the volume, just pull down (ie tap and slide down) the top of the screen and you get the screen settings, which includes a volumne control bar. And for now, here's a gain and expo video I did last year; controls are much the same: th-cam.com/video/wwVK87WJuik/w-d-xo.htmlsi=iyL8KQvc7vGWW6aI
@@IaninLondon Jeepers your up early mate...thanks for the quick reply...hope winter isn't too brutal for you all...!
@@IaninLondon It doesn't like my fat fingers as I'm tapping and pulling down with no affirmative results...damn it, trip to JB Hi0Fi tomorrow morning ! ! !
I goddit, thanks mate
here you go: th-cam.com/video/NlQVX_nNirc/w-d-xo.html
As always a very good and detailed overview and a particle demo in a stunning location. Just one point may have been on the cutting room floor what is the actual battery life? Many thanks as always
That's in my other video 🤠. It's 1 min less; specd max 45 mins; real world around 36-39
@@IaninLondon thanks that is great
How do you think that the Air 3s compares to the Mavic 3 classic? I'm trying to figure out if it's worth it or not to migrate from the M3c to the Air 3s.
That's a real hard one, because you've got a bigger sensor on the Mavic 3, but older technology... For video, especially in lower light situations, I would put the air 3s ahead. Functionally, the air 3s has a lot more going for it but I do wish they'd put a larger sensor in
Sorry Ian, yes it does have some impressive specs but it cannot be the perfect drone without having a variable aperture camera. Your blown out sunset / sunrise images prove the point. Keep up the great work 👍
Yes, that's why I mention it.... Trouble is, there is always a price, like more weight, larger size, and whilst I could have lowered the exposure for the sunsets, I'd have lost the ground, which I wanted to capture....
@@IaninLondon Sorry Ian, I wasn’t criticising your work, (some great shots) but just using this as an example of the problem with fixed aperture cameras. I accept that weight and price is a consideration, but this is such a basic camera function that I feel it is something that should now be on the Air range now as standard.
No criticism taken at all. Fully get your point.... I guess they really want that differentiation between the Air and Mavics...
Ian. Great show. Really impressed with latest Air3S. I'm so tempted to upgrade from my Air3. I've just used my Air3 at Worbarrow Bay Dorset recently. I was going up a steep hill. Is there a way of maintaining a uniform height going forward (and up) ?. Mark
You can use cruise control, or just not touch the up stick (or do you mean maintain the same altitude over the ground if the ground is rising? if so, no.
Great video ! did you see a difference in the dynamic range in manual mode exposure on video compare to the auto mode and the 14stops announced (but just in auto). ? great video again !
So, Ian. I have the Air 3. Are you saying that this A3Ss' 1" aperture camera set up will adjust to take care of light extremes on both sides of the light specter? Lidar! Can we link it to mapping technology for work?! Is it built in mapping technology? Do I need to get one to help start a business? We might need to discuss this over a few more lagers mate. Cheers, Brendan 🤘😎🤙
The camera settings will auto adjust for a very large range of light, right down to night time. Lidar is just another form of obstacle avoidance ; not sure it will be compiling any 3D maps soon 😉 And it depends on what business you're starting :)
Hi Ian, great video again fantastic footage as usual, but do we have to buy another RC again with the package?
Ye, although if you already have the RC 2, then just get the N3 version...
@@IaninLondon which models does the RC N3 cover Ian?
Superb. Question, when doing free panorama can you save individual RAW files? Also can you bracket with free pano? Thanks
Yes to raws; no to bracketing :)
Nice review but to me the only thing that really matters is the visual output. How about uploading some stills please ?
Thank you so much for the review. I just sell my AIR 3 to take the AIR 3S I think with the new sensor it will be better for photography also. I’m from Belgium I was in September 6-13 with a so nice weather one week in this nice place of Lake District. It’s at this period you make this review ?
I was up there the first week of October... But it's a great place!
Where else would you bring it! Perfect location for it.
I’m just waiting to see what the mavic 4 which is coming soon has to offer, but this air3s is a big jump up from my air2s.
Love the video! Question: in the free panorama mode, can the photos be taken in RAW in stead of jpeg?
I've not found a way yet.... On the list to test 👍🏻
Yes, you select the panorama mode and then press the file type in the bottom right corner. You can then select RAW instead of the default JPEG.
Awesome video. Love your enthusiasm. I'm sold. But, I'm also a newbie.... what are the downsides to using the Air 3S in an urban area vs. the Mini 4 Pro?
FYI, I own a Pocket 3 and 360X4, but have never owned a drone for fear of it going bye-bye on the 1st flight... 🥵
Well, basically, it's against the rules set by the CAA. You can only fly larger drones like this in open countryside; sub 250 gm drones have fewer restrictions and can be flown in towns
Nice 👍
Fab footage from the Lakes Ian .
Do you have a Mavic 3 Pro?
Just wondering how the Air 3S compared to the Mavic 3 Pro?
I have a Mavic 3 Classic, but as yet, haven't done a side by side comparison....
Mate I have not bought a bigger drone than my Air 2s since I got the air 2s because I love it that much that all I have wanted since is the air 3s. I have mini drones but I want that air 2s editing experience with DLog etc but on a newer drone and get to fly in different locations but within the 50m rule, be specific in my flights but get the footage I desire and not just with the mini all the time. Today is an amazing day. Infact it's been an amazing year and I have done so well that I deserve this
Always good to reward yourself! It's a brilliant drone :)
@IaninLondon thanks Ian and as many others you have helped me along the way and given me a lot of advice in your videos. 2025 will be a massive year for me and my business so thank you for inspiring me to take the leap in 2022 and onto 2024 and beyond.
Great video 👏 we fly since the phantom 1 😂 now the drones are so awesome but it’s difficulty to fly find a place to fly 🥴
Dji claims even the 360 camera sensors have been upgraded to work better in low light, could u please test that how dark it can get ?
I was peesonally thinking about that lidar added to the drone, am surprised dji read my mind and made it happen 😅 but thought it would be fornday time as well as low light 😮
I am currently sat in my new campervan in the far North Of Scotland. This afternoon my phone randomly pinged with an email from DJI Retail announcing the launch of the Air3S. I went straight to their Website and in the buying menu selected the 'trade in' option for my old drone. The little darlings at DJI offered me the grand total of £344.00 for my old Air3, RC2 controller and a single battery, really? Yes really. This for a completely undamaged Air 3 Fly More Combo that I bought direct from DJI. I was half tempted to wade into the Ebay swamp to sell my Air 3. Having thought about it again, DJI can keep their drone.
I think you're always going to get a better price fo resale on eBay; I've never used the trade in option....
The video quality looked really good on this drone. I only had it in the air for about 10 mins so far to just test out how it felt. I took a little video looked great took some photos. Was not impressed at all. I also noticed if you crop in and snap a shot. Say 70mm 6x digital zoom snap photo the thumbnail shows zoom view but the picture Dng raw file is not cropped it is just 70mm shot. Which is fine you can then crop in on it during post, but wasn’t expecting it. Also the photos seemed to produce more haze than what I am use to with mavic 3. Again I only had a brief flight with it and have to test it further. Just things I noticed right out of the gate. I really wish the 70mm would have been a 1 inch sensor. I guess they are keeping that for the mavic 4. I need to dive a little deeper into the setting also to see if maybe something is missing. I upped the megapixel from the 12 to 48. So maybe that changes things too. Time will tell I guess
Cropping in will only ever be digitial zoom, and I don't rate that ever.... If you need to crop the 70mm lens, I think you're going to get a lot of haze and be pretty disappointed with the result.
@@IaninLondon oh yeah, non of the digital crops would work for sure. Especially on a sensor that size. I mean the right software and processing could maybe get you there in Jpg. I was just surprised it didn’t save what you are visually seeing in your camera. First time I ever zoomed in to snap a shot and saw full sensor photo not cropped photo. But then again maybe it does if you shoot in jpg. It just took me by surprise. The haze I think is more based on the smaller sensor size but more testing will tell for sure. I really wish the 70mm was a 1 inch sensor to capture more dynamic range. Also in just a couple quick test my mavic 3 classic seems to have better optical avoidance than the air 3s. That was a surprise too and made no sense. I was thinking the new lidar sensor was going to step it up when trying to fly forward into a tree. The new start stop panorama is cool and great for some landscapes but I the distortion is still a panorama look. Almost get a better stitch and fill using Lightroom classic to get straighter lines. Maybe my expectations were set a little too high from all the hype around this drone before it came. It’s a good drone packed with a ton of features . I just feel the features need polished a bit to be a great drone. Then again isn’t that DJI they like to wait for that big first update to polish the drone and release some new amazing feature.
I wasn't aware of the full raw file irrespective of digital zoom; I guess why trim a raw fiel when you will be processing in post anyway... The Pano mode is incredible the way it blends the different exposures and you get an end resutl free of light variations; I think you might have slightly unrealistic expectations for its ability to de-warp though :)
Hi Ian, another great review as usual. Quick question please which seems maybe trivial but important to me, the new panoramic feature looks great but does or can it shot the images in RAW. Also I doubt it, but could it also do this with bracketed shots. Kind thanks Keith
No btracketed and I couldn't find a way to get Pano in raw either...
No probs Ian, thanks for the quick reply 👍
Does the automatic "free" panorama work with RAW or is it JPEG only?
And can you do a tracking shot with the drone "fixed" behind or in front of you (following behind you or backing up in front of you)?
i'll wait for the new Mavic
Okay mate
If right now, in addition to a few different fpv pieces, you currently owned a mini 3 pro, would you consider a refurbished mavic 3 pro, or a brand new Air 3S?
I don’t know how vital the variable aperture is as I’ve never flown the mavic series? Air 2 was my first, then the mini 3 pro.
For top end stills only, I would probably just come down with the Mavic 3 Pro, but only just. It's old hardware and the Air 3S produces brilliant results esp in low light. If it's a mix of video and stills you do, then Air 3S. Aperture not that critical as you have ND filters if you're flying anywhere super bright.
@@IaninLondon yeah I think the Air3S is the best option.
I’ve always liked the idea of owning the Mavic 3 Pro, but this new Air series piece does most of not all that I want it to.
Just hope for some of those lush autumn mornings with the long shadows and low forming mist to test it out on ;)
Cheers
Thank you👍
Nice review . Is it true 50 mp sensor or a Quad Bayer sensor?
Quad bayers are usually 12 Mp giving 48 Mp, so I don't think this is a quad bayer but I've gone back to DJI and asked them...
Awesome , could you please update here once you get a reply from DJI . Thanks @@IaninLondon
Billy Kyle reported that he was disappointed in it's low light capabilities because it didn't have a dedicated night mode. Can you say positively say that the low-light videos with the 3s is superior to the 3? Thank you!
Yes, the night mode is blended in with the standard filming mode; the footage I took of the Northern Lights and also at Brighton was outstanding
Is the live transmission still 1080p 60hrz?
Another Excellent Review. Is the 50MP native or QBF?
I've asked DJI on that this afternoon.... QBF is usually 12 Mp to 48, so 50 MP tells me it's probably not QBF
it is 12 MP
@IaninLondon Thanks. I agree. Using the pixel image size data and physical pixel size of 3.2um plus this looks possible for a 1" / 25.4mm physical sensor. Impressive. My Cannon EOS 90D camera has 32MP, uses the same size pixel of 3.2um and a smaller physical sensor. Also, as you say, the QBF technology would yield 24, 36 or 48MP. I'm no expert but just rational thinking.
@CLLUK @fendrou DJI have confirmed the main camera is a genuine 50 MP sensor, not using Quad Bayer.
@@IaninLondon if you read the specs you'll see for both of the cameras to record at 12 MP or the "effective" 50 MP for the wide angle and 48 MP for the Tele lens. If it was a real 50 MP I believe they wouldn't keep it a secret 🤔
I may need to get one, good video Ian, you're going to cost me money! 🙂. Are you near Snake Pass there btw?
No, I was up in the Lakes, not the Peak District... Had a grea time filming and climbing!
Are you color grading this or doing it in normal? I think the normal mode is very good and don't really need to color it.
Everything was filmed in Normal Mode without grading 👍🏻
If a bird came at you full speed, would the obstacle avoidance work? I do surf videos, and I have problems with pelicans.
That is an excellent question. Your best bet would be to put the obstacle avoidance into Bypass Mode , and don't fly in Sport mode (when the OA gets switched off). That way it will do it's best to manoeuvre around any obstacle whether or not it's stationary or moving 👍🏻👍🏻
@IaninLondon thanks I've had many near misses. The obstacle avoidance will kick in on a bird every once in awhile
Great review Ian. Many thanks for this. Where is the 5.4k camera? Crazy that my Air 2s has it and this is still 4k.
I'm wondering if that's a firmware updoate away....?
Not sure mate, as the Air3 was only 4k
The Air 2S sensor was 3:2 native 20MP. I guess the Air 3S being 4:3 native and 50MP/12MP is the difference. I'd like to know more about the real effective still resolution.
like you I own too many drones, and looking at this there are some compelling features.... however due to owning the Air 3 I just wish they sold the drone only without need for another controller..... also, are the Air 3 batteries compatible save me buying the combo kit?
Yes, 3 batterioes are compatible so you can buy the N3 single battery version and link it to your RC2
do i get the mavic 3 pro or the 3s....money isnt an issue...want for epic video and photos....thanks
Only if it has the third camera, think I'll wait for the mavic 4
Heck man you got in there quick. I have just clicked add to cart on Amazon. That is another £1400 to DJI 👍😁🙈. I blame you
I was indeed... But I asure you, this will be your best drone you've ever owned...
@@IaninLondon Lets hope so and I suspect it will for about 9 months lol. I am loving my Neo and the Avata 2 now. I keep telling Her Indoors. You cant take it with you and the only way to waste money is not to spend it. Mr Amazon should bring mine tomorrow. Got the RC2 Fly more combo...... This DJI outfit will have us all skint
Great review and such, shutter speed way too high in the tele shots however
Yeah, I truth I had just climbed the mountain and threw the drone up when no one was about without an ND 🤠
@@IaninLondon I can appreciate that
Thank you! :)