DJI Mini 2 SE Review – Is It Worth It?

The DJI Mini 2 SE was released in early 2023, the drone is similar to the Mini SE, Mini 2 and the original Mavic Mini. There are differences between these drones, some are significant, but others are not so much. In this review of the DJI Mini 2 SE, we shall explore its main features, its flight performance, the pros and cons and see whether the DJI Mini 2 SE is worth buying.

DJI Mini 2 SE Review

The DJI Mini 2 SE, is identical to the Mini SE and Mini 2 and slightly different to the Mavic Mini, but that’s only if you look really closely.

The DJI Mini 2 SE showcases a sleek, minimalist aesthetic that marries form and function. Its lightweight frame, constructed from high-quality materials, ensures resilience in various flight conditions. The foldable design enhances portability, making it a breeze to transport the drone to various locations. Additionally, the robust propellers guarantee stability and reliability during flight, resulting in a smooth and enjoyable experience.

The drone comes with the RC-N1 controller, which I prefer over the smaller controller of the original Mavic Mini and Mini SE. The controller is much bigger and has a much more comfortable grip.

The controller uses DJI’s O2 transmission technology for a maximum range of 10km, and this results in better communication between the drone and controller with reduced latency and improved live video feed.

Like most new DJI drone models, you will need to download the DJI Fly App to access the drone’s advanced features.

Something I must mention is that the app is no longer available on the Google Play Store, I don’t know why this is, it may be due to political reasons; however, it’s still available on the Apple App Store, so that doesn’t make sense to me.

Anyway, you can download the drone from the DJI website, you may get a warning on your smartphone, but the app is perfectly safe.

It’s a very easy app to use and navigate and has some tutorials for beginners, it even has some editing features for your videos, but it’s not the best, and there are far better video editing apps like Lightcut and Capcut.

DJI Mini 2 SE – Features

The DJI Mini 2 SE comes equipped with some intelligent features that make it easy to create professional-quality content, regardless of your experience level. These features include QuickShots, Panorama, and Timed Shots, which provide users with an array of creative tools to elevate their aerial photography and videography.

The drone also comes with an advanced return-to-home feature; the drone will automatically return to the place where it took off if you lose connection with the drone for more than a few seconds or if the battery gets low on charge.

You can also use the RTH button on the controller or app to bring it back safely.

I was disappointed with the fact that, like most of the drones in the DJI Mini range, the Mini 2 SE does not come with autonomous flight modes like the Active Track, Waypoint and POI.

The only drone that has these features in the DJI Mini range is the Mini 3 Pro; however, there are third-party apps like Litchi and Dronelink that provide these features. DJI have yet open up the SDK for the DJI Mini 2 SE, so these apps will not be compatible with the drone. 

However, when DJI do release the SDK for the DJI Mini 2 SE, these apps will most likely be updated so that they are compatible.

DJI Mini 2 SE Flight Performance

I put the DJI Mini 2 to the test in various conditions, from calm days to those with moderate wind. The drone’s upgraded propulsion system and improved wind resistance (up to 24 mph) ensure reliable performance even in less-than-ideal weather conditions. The Mini 2 SE’s 2.7K camera and 3-axis gimbal delivers stunning, high-resolution images and video that casual flyers and hobbyists.

The drone has an official flight time of 31 minutes, however, most people should get around 28 minutes in good weather, if you fly in windy conditions, the flight time will be reduced.

The Quickshots feature is fun to play around with, you can capture some amazing short videos from different angles at the push of a button.

The camera has a 4x zoom function, which is pretty decent, but it does affect the overall image quality the more you zoom. The return-to-home function is a fantastic feature and helps reduce the risk of losing your drone.

Check out these sample images and videos that showcase the Mini 2 SE’s capabilities.

Comparisons to Competitors

The main competitors to the DJI Mini 2 SE are the other DJI drones in the Mini range. I wouldn’t compare this drone to something like the Autel Evo Nano, as those are mid-tier drones for professional photography and are significantly more expensive.

The main difference between the Mini 2 SE and Mini SE is their video transmission range. The Mini SE uses DJI’s older transmission technology for a range of 4km, while the Mini 2 SE uses the DJI O2 tech for a range of 10km.

There are other differences, the Mini 2 SE can capture images in RAW format and has more photography modes such as AEB and Panorama.

The Mini 2 SE also has a slightly longer flight time, but it’s not significant enough to be an issue.

Between the Mini SE and Mini 2 SE, I don’t believe there is much of a difference unless you want to capture images in RAW format, in which case, the Mini 2 SE is the best option.

However, between the Mini 2 and Mini 2 SE, there is a significant difference, and that is the camera.

The Mini 2 can capture 4k videos at 30fps at 100Mbps, while the Mini 2 SE can only capture 2.7k videos at 40Mbps.

The Mini 2 is probably the best low-cost 4k camera drone on the market, and I would definitely choose it over any other drone that costs less than $500.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

As with any drone, users may occasionally encounter issues with the DJI Mini 2 SE. However, most problems can be resolved with a little troubleshooting. For instance, if the drone loses GPS signal or experiences interference, recalibrating the compass and ensuring the firmware is up-to-date can resolve these issues. Regular maintenance, such as inspecting and replacing damaged propellers, can help prolong the drone’s lifespan and ensure optimal performance.

You should also think about purchasing drone insurance, it is an expensive drone, and so if you accidentally damage it, it will be good to have some kind of insurance.

Pricing and Availability

At the time of writing, the DJI Mini 2 SE costs less than $350 in the USA and just over £300 in the UK, this is for the base model. It costs just under $500 or £450 (UK) for the Fly More Combo, which includes additional accessories such as extra batteries and a charging hub. The drone can be purchased through DJI’s official website, major online retailers like Amazon and Walmart and select physical stores.

Warranty and Customer Support

The DJI Mini 2 SE comes with a standard 12-month warranty, which covers manufacturing defects and provides peace of mind for buyers. DJI’s customer support is known for being responsive and helpful, with multiple channels available for assistance, including email, phone, and live chat. Users can also access a wealth of online resources, such as user manuals, troubleshooting guides, and an active community forum where users can share their experiences and insights.

Accessories and Expansion

DJI offers an extensive range of accessories and add-ons for the Mini 2 SE, allowing users to customise their drone experience to suit their specific needs. Some of these optional extras include propeller guards for added protection during flight, a charging hub for simultaneous charging of multiple batteries, and a creative kit with stickers and pens for personalizing your drone. These accessories not only enhance the drone’s functionality but also enable users to adapt their Mini 2 SE to various applications and environments.

Standard Version or Fly More Combo Version?

Like most of the drones in DJI’s consumer range, you have the option to purchase the DJI Mini 2 SE with its main accessories or the Fly More Combo, which costs around $100 extra, but you get additional accessories like 3 batteries, a 2-way charging hub and a shoulder bag.

I opted for the standard version but should have opted for the Fly More Combo because of the additional batteries and shoulder bag.

Although the drone’s 30 minutes of flight is enough to get some awesome videos and photos, its always a good idea to have a couple of spare batteries around to extend your flight time.

Do You Need To Register The DJI Mini 2 SE?

The take-off weight for the DJI Mini 2 SE is slightly less than its predecessors at 246 grams. If you live in the UK and this is your first drone, you will need to obtain a Flyer and Operator ID.

If you live in the USA and only use drones for recreational purposes, there is no need to register the drone. However, you will still need to pass the FAA TRUST exam.

If you live anywhere else, make sure to check your local rules and regulations and comply with them.

Is The DJI Mini 2 SE Worth It?

Yes, the DJI Mini 2 SE is worth it for those looking for a compact, lightweight, and user-friendly drone that offers impressive camera capabilities and reliable performance. With its 2.7K camera, 3-axis gimbal stabilisation, Quickshot modes, and a long flight time of up to 31 minutes, it provides excellent value for its price. While it lacks obstacle avoidance sensors and some advanced features found in higher-end drones, its portability and overall capabilities make it an attractive option for both beginners and experienced drone enthusiasts. The DJI Mini 2 SE offers a great balance of performance and ease of use, making it a great choice for those searching a portable and capable drone with advanced features.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the DJI Mini 2 SE offers a fantastic combination of features, performance, and portability. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a first-time drone user, the DJI Mini 2 SE is a good choice that will enable you to capture stunning aerial footage with ease and confidence. Its myriad of flight modes, safety features, and optional accessories ensure that the Mini 2 SE is a good choice for any drone enthusiast. I wholeheartedly recommend the DJI Mini 2 SE to anyone looking for a high-quality, affordable, and user-friendly drone.

Pros & Cons