In a world increasingly captivated by the exhilarating blend of technology and photography, DJI has consistently set the standards, delivering state-of-the-art drones that astound enthusiasts and professionals alike. The DJI Mavic 3 is a very popular drone for photography and is DJI’s first consumer drone with a dual camera system. A question that often arises regarding DJI drones is, are they waterproof, and more specifically for this article, is the DJI Mavic 3 waterproof?
This question often gets asked about many popular drones, as drone operators encounter diverse weather conditions while capturing that perfect aerial shot. In this comprehensive article, we’ll explore the innovative features of this latest model and address the critical concern of its water-resistant capabilities, ensuring you’re fully equipped with all the necessary information before you decide to fly the drone in wet conditions.
Is The DJI Mavic 3 Waterproof?
No, the DJI Mavic 3 is not waterproof; in fact, none of DJI’s consumer drones are waterproof. DJI provide guidance in all their manuals that users should refrain from flying their drones in the rain or any wet conditions.
Having said that, people do still take risks, and there is video evidence that many DJI drones can withstand some exposure to wet weather.
For example, in the video below, the pilot flew his DJI Mavic 3 in the rain, and by the looks of it, it wasn’t light rain but quite heavy.
From my own research ( I never fly my drones in adverse weather conditions), there is evidence that a lot of popular DJI drones have some resistance to wet weather.
For example, the DJI Mini 2 is a very popular DJI drone; a lot of pilots claim that they have flown it in the rain without any adverse effects. In fact, you can find many videos on YouTube of people testing the water-resistant capabilities of many popular DJI drones.
However, I recommend against flying in wet conditions as these drones are expensive, and there is the risk of seriously damaging your drone, which will require expensive repair.
Of course, if you are one of those who likes to take risks, then you should purchase drone insurance so that you have some cover in case the drone is damaged.
Related: Best Waterproof Drones
DJI Mavic 3 Wetsuit
The DJI Mavic 3 Wetsuit, an innovation from Phantomrain.org, is designed to enhance your drone’s resistance against heavy rainfall. Available in a spectrum of vivid colours, it ensures that your drone remains visible during its flight, even against a gloomy weather backdrop.
Comprising 23 components, this precision-engineered wetsuit can be assembled in just 15 minutes, offering practical convenience alongside robust protection. It adds a layer of protection when you’re navigating your drone under challenging weather conditions, effectively serving as your drone’s umbrella.
Though it commands a premium price point, the DJI Mavic 3 Wetsuit is a worthy investment for frequent drone users who encounter unpredictable weather patterns. For sporadic users or those living in drier climates, the cost-to-benefit ratio may require careful consideration.
It’s available for purchase directly through Phantomrain.org or via Etsy.
Tips On What To Do If Your Drone Gets Wet
If your drone gets wet, you should act quickly to try to minimize any potential damage. Here’s what you should do:
Power Down: Immediately turn off the drone to prevent any short circuits. If the battery is removable, take it out as soon as possible.
Dry the Exterior: Use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the drone and remove as much water as possible. Pay close attention to any crevices and cracks where water could potentially hide.
Shake Off Excess Water: Gently shake the drone to remove any water from inside the drone.
Dry Internally: If you can, open up the drone and gently pat dry any visible moisture with a clean, dry cloth.
Use Silica Gel Packets or Uncooked Rice: If possible, put the drone in a bag with silica gel packets or uncooked rice. These can help absorb the moisture from the drone. Leave it in for at least 24-48 hours.
Inspect for Damage: Once you’re certain the drone is dry, visually inspect it for any signs of damage. If you’re unsure, it might be best to take it to a professional for inspection.
Test the Drone: Power up the drone and test it. If it’s not working properly, consult a professional.
Remember, it’s important not to rush the process. If the drone isn’t completely dry and you try to power it on, it could cause more damage. Always consult the drone’s manual or manufacturer if you’re unsure what to do.
An Overview Of The DJI Mavic 3
The DJI Mavic 3, a high-end camera drone, has been designed to elevate professional aerial photography and videography standards. One of its defining features is its dual camera system.
The DJI Mavic 3 is equipped with two powerful cameras: the main camera and the telephoto camera. The main camera features a professional-grade 4/3 CMOS sensor designed by Hasselblad. It has a resolution of 20MP and offers a wide dynamic range of 12.8 stops, allowing for more natural transitions between highlights and shadows in your photos. The adjustable aperture ranges from f/2.8 to f/11, providing flexibility in controlling the depth of field. The main camera also incorporates Vision Detection Auto Focus technology for precise autofocus.
The Mavic 3 doesn’t stop at still photography, though. Its video recording capabilities are equally impressive, supporting up to 5.1K resolution and DCI 4K video at a remarkable 120fps. This drone is designed to deliver natural colour gradations and a wider scope for post-production creativity, thanks to its compatibility with Apple ProRes encoding format and the inclusion of a 10-bit D-Log colour profile. One of its standout features is the dual-camera system, furnished with a tele camera. This feature allows artists to zoom in and scout shots without disturbing their subjects, and with the Pro mode, they have complete control over manual parameter adjustments and the ability to take RAW photos.
Flight performance and safety aspects of the Mavic 3 also shine brightly. The drone promises an extended flight time, lasting up to an impressive 46 minutes, and a robust video transmission range of 15 km. This drone is also programmed with intelligent safety mechanisms, including an Advanced RTH function for autonomous navigation back to its take-off point and the APAS 5.0 obstacle detection and avoidance system.
To further enhance its appeal, the Mavic 3 is equipped with numerous advanced features. These include ActiveTrack 5.0 for precise subject tracking, MasterShots for automated shot composition, and various shooting modes like Panorama and Hyperlapse.
All these features together consolidate the DJI Mavic 3’s standing as a versatile and reliable tool for capturing breathtaking aerial visuals, setting a new benchmark for future drone technology.
Final Thoughts
So, in this article, we have answered the question, is the DJI Mavic 3 waterproof? and while the drone may have some resistance to water, it most definitely is not waterproof.
Although its construction quality and durability may allow it to handle light drizzle or mist, it’s not designed to withstand heavy rainfall or any form of immersion in water.
This lack of water resistance could lead to damage to the electronic components, rendering the drone nonfunctional.
While there have been instances of individuals flying their Mavic 3 drones in the rain without immediate adverse effects, this is not recommended.
Risking your drone in such conditions can lead to damage over time, void the warranty, and potentially result in a sudden drone failure during flight which can be dangerous.
If you frequently find yourself needing to fly in wet or rainy conditions, consider investing in a drone wetsuit. These are protective covers designed to add a level of water resistance to the drone. It’s an affordable way to increase your drone’s resistance to moisture without risking the warranty or the longevity of your drone.
In conclusion, while the Mavic 3 may tolerate slight moisture, it’s not a waterproof drone and should not be flown in the rain whenever avoidable. Always take care of your equipment and consider your environment when planning your drone flights.
