
dji mini 5 pro official 1-inch sensors DJI has officially unveiled the Mini 5 Pro, a compact drone that introduces significant advancements in sensor technology and battery life, promising to elevate the user experience for drone enthusiasts and professionals alike.
dji mini 5 pro official 1-inch sensors
Introduction to the DJI Mini 5 Pro
In 2023, DJI made waves in the consumer technology market with the Osmo Pocket 3, a compact steadicam featuring a one-inch sensor that dramatically enhanced video quality. Building on this success, DJI is now turning its attention to its highly popular line of portable drones, specifically the Mini series. The newly announced DJI Mini 5 Pro is set to redefine expectations for small drones, boasting improved imaging capabilities and longer battery life than its predecessor, the Mini 4 Pro.
Key Features of the DJI Mini 5 Pro
Advanced Sensor Technology
The standout feature of the Mini 5 Pro is its 50-megapixel one-inch-type sensor, a significant upgrade from the 1/1.3-inch sensor found in the Mini 4 Pro. With dimensions of 15.19 x 11.11mm, this new sensor offers more than double the area, which translates to enhanced light capture. DJI claims that the Mini 5 Pro can achieve 14 stops of dynamic range, a feature that is particularly advantageous for capturing high-contrast scenes.
DJI asserts that the Mini 5 Pro could deliver results that slightly outperform those of the larger and more expensive DJI Air 3S, particularly in terms of “enhanced portrait performance” at close range and improved brightness in shadow areas. This addresses a common critique of the Air 3S, which sometimes oversharpened vegetation in its images.
Battery Life Improvements
Another significant enhancement in the Mini 5 Pro is its battery life. DJI claims that the Mini 5 Pro can fly for up to 36 minutes, an increase of two minutes over the Mini 4 Pro, all while maintaining a weight under the crucial 250-gram mark. For users seeking even longer flight times, DJI offers an extended battery option that can push flight time to an impressive 52 minutes. However, it is important to note that this extended battery will not be available for sale in Europe, as part of DJI’s compliance with regional regulations concerning heavier drones.
Performance Enhancements
Flight Capabilities
The Mini 5 Pro also boasts significant improvements in flight performance. It can climb at a rate of 10 meters per second (approximately 22 mph), doubling the ascent speed of its predecessor. Additionally, the Mini 5 Pro can achieve a horizontal flight speed of 42 mph, compared to the 36 mph of the Mini 4 Pro. These enhancements make the Mini 5 Pro not only faster but also more agile, catering to users who require quick maneuverability.
Camera and Video Features
In terms of video capabilities, the Mini 5 Pro allows for faster 4K120 shooting, similar to the Air series. It also features an expanded ISO range, with a maximum ISO of 12,800 for normal shooting and 3,200 for HDR and D-Log M. This flexibility in ISO settings enables users to capture high-quality footage in various lighting conditions.
Moreover, the Mini 5 Pro offers onboard storage of 42GB for video, eliminating the need for an SD card for short clips, a limitation present in previous Mini models. This feature simplifies the user experience, allowing for easier access to recorded footage without the hassle of managing external storage.
Enhanced Obstacle Avoidance
Safety features have also been upgraded. The Mini 5 Pro inherits the omnidirectional obstacle avoidance system from the Mini 4 Pro but adds an upgraded low-light version with forward-facing LiDAR. This enhancement allows the drone to navigate more effectively in low-light conditions, making it safer for nighttime flights. Additionally, the Mini 5 Pro can memorize flight routes, enabling safe takeoff and return even in the absence of a satellite signal.
New Features and User Experience
Telephoto and Gimbal Improvements
In an effort to compete with the Air series, the Mini 5 Pro introduces a new “48mm Med-Tele mode.” While this digital zoom may not match the optical capabilities of the Air’s 70mm lens, it still offers users a versatile shooting option. Early impressions of DJI’s previous digital zooms, such as the 40mm lossless 2x zoom on the Osmo Pocket 3, indicate that this feature could be practically useful for many users.
Additionally, the Mini 5 Pro features a gimbal that allows for a 225-degree roll, enhancing the versatility of the drone for various filming angles. This is a step up from previous models and aligns the Mini 5 Pro more closely with the capabilities of higher-end DJI drones.
Convenience Features
DJI has also introduced convenience features to enhance the user experience. The Mini 5 Pro can automatically power on when its arms are unfolded, eliminating the need for the traditional press-and-hold method. However, it is worth noting that the drone cannot perform DJI’s QuickShots filming maneuvers without a controller, which may limit some users’ creative options.
Market Availability and Pricing
Availability Challenges
As with many of DJI’s recent releases, a pressing question remains: will consumers be able to purchase the Mini 5 Pro easily? In the United States, the outlook is not particularly favorable. DJI has announced that it will not officially sell the Mini 5 Pro in the U.S. market and has not created a dedicated product website for it. While some retailers may carry limited stock, potential buyers may face challenges with U.S. customs blocking shipments.
DJI spokesperson Daisy Kong has indicated that the company will still honor warranties for products purchased through unofficial channels, but this will depend on various factors, including the nature of the product issue and whether it falls within the warranty period.
Pricing Information
In Canada, the DJI Mini 5 Pro is priced at $769 USD, although Kong cautions that this may not reflect the final price in the U.S. market. The drone will also be available for £689 in the UK, €798 in Europe, and ¥106,700 in Japan. Notably, DJI has not increased prices significantly this year, suggesting that any higher prices seen at U.S. retailers may be attributed to tariffs imposed during the Trump administration.
As with previous models, DJI will offer the Mini 5 Pro in bundles that include additional batteries, accessories, and screen-equipped controllers for those who prefer a more comprehensive package. However, it is important to note that the new batteries are not compatible with the Mini 4 Pro, and users cannot swap propellers or ND filters between the two models. While technically possible, DJI does not recommend using older batteries with the Mini 5 Pro.
Conclusion
The DJI Mini 5 Pro represents a significant advancement in the realm of compact drones, offering enhanced imaging capabilities, improved battery life, and a host of new features designed to elevate the user experience. However, potential buyers in the U.S. may face challenges in acquiring the drone, raising questions about its accessibility in key markets. As the drone landscape continues to evolve, the Mini 5 Pro stands out as a compelling option for both enthusiasts and professionals looking to capture high-quality aerial footage.
Source: Original report
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Last Modified: September 17, 2025 at 5:42 pm
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