If you’re a proud owner of the DJI Mini 2 or considering purchasing one, you might be wondering how well it can handle water exposure and if the DJI Mini 2 is waterproof. In this article, we’ll explore the Mini 2’s water resistance capabilities, share some user experiences, and provide tips on how to protect your drone from potential water damage.
Is the DJI Mini 2 Waterproof?
Unfortunately, the DJI Mini 2 is neither waterproof nor water-resistant. This means that it’s not designed to withstand significant exposure to water, and flying it in wet environments could lead to damage. That being said, some users have reported that their Mini 2 has survived minimal water exposure, such as light rain or brief contact with water.
Understanding Waterproofing & Water Resistance
Waterproof refers to the ability of a product to completely prevent water ingress, thus protecting its internal components from damage. Water-resistant, on the other hand, implies that a product can withstand a certain degree of water exposure without incurring damage, though it may not be entirely impervious to water penetration.
IP (Ingress Protection) rating system
The IP rating system is a widely recognised international standard that classifies the degree of protection offered by a product against dust and water ingress. An IP rating typically consists of two digits, with the first digit denoting protection against solid particles and the second digit representing protection against water. Higher digits indicate increased levels of protection.
Unfortunately, most consumer drones, including the DJI Mini 2, do not have an IP rating.
Importance of Understanding Drone Capabilities And Limitations
Understanding the capabilities and limitations of any drone is of paramount importance for users to ensure safe and responsible operation, avoid damage to the equipment, and optimise its performance under various conditions. This is particularly relevant when considering factors such as water exposure and resistance, which can significantly impact a drone’s functionality and longevity.
Which DJI Drones Have An IP Rating?
Currently, there are no consumer drones from DJI that have an IP rating.
By consumer drones, I refer to the DJI Inspire, Phantom, Mavic, Air and Mini drones, although some of these could also be categorised as commercial drones as well.
However, there are some DJI drones that have been developed for industrial applications, like the Matrice series, that do have an IP rating and are waterproof.
For example, the DJI M30 has an IP55 rating, while the Matrice 300 has an IP 45 rating, this will allow them to be operated in heavy rain.
However, these are enterprise-level drones are not designed for consumer use, and they are very expensive. Apart from these DJI drones, there are only a few multi-rotor drones that have an IP rating; these include the Parrot Anafi USA and all the drones from the UK-based drone manufacturer SwellPro.
Read: – Best Waterproof Drones With an IP Rating
DJI Mini 2 and Water Exposure
The DJI Mini 2 is an impressive lightweight drone, featuring a 3-axis gimbal, 4K video, and a 12MP camera, all packed into just 249 grams. With a maximum flight time of 31 minutes and a reliable 10 km range, it’s perfect for capturing stunning aerial photos and videos. Its user-friendly photography modes, including panoramas, timelapses, and HDR, make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to create professional-quality content with a personal touch.
The DJI Mini 2’s popularity as a mid-tier drone consistently sparks inquiries about its waterproof capabilities, reflecting the importance of this feature to potential buyers.
The DJI Mini 2 manual advises users to not operate the drone in adverse weather conditions such as winds speeds over 10m/s, snow and rain. This indicates that the drone is not designed to withstand significant water exposure. However, there have been instances where users have operated the Mini 2 in the rain and even after being submerged in water.
User Experiences With The DJI Mini 2 & Water Exposure
Anecdotal evidence from users suggests that the DJI Mini 2 may endure minimal water exposure, such as light rain or brief contact with water, without immediate adverse effects. However, these instances should not be considered indicative of the drone’s water resistance capabilities, and users should exercise caution to prevent water-related damage.
As an example, someone posted this video on the DJI forum; it shows their DJI Mini 2 dropping into water and remaining submerged for around 5 minutes. After removing the battery and leaving the drone in a dryer at 40°C for 24 hours, the drone was operating as normal.
However, things like this are usually an exception and not the rule; if the damage isn’t immediately apparent, it may be a few days or months before something noticeable occurs.
Given the considerable investment in drones such as the DJI Mini 2, it is crucial to operate them responsibly and avoid using them in unintended ways to ensure their longevity and optimal performance.
Protecting Your DJI Mini 2 from Water Damage
Avoid flying the DJI Mini 2 in adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, which may increase the risk of water ingress. Monitoring weather forecasts and making informed decisions about flight plans is essential to prevent water-related damage to the drone.
Invest In A DJI Mini 2 Wetsuit
If you frequently find yourself flying drones in adverse weather, it’s worth considering the DJI Mini 2 wetsuit. Crafted by Phantomrain.org, a Cleveland, Ohio-based firm recognized for creating wetsuits for various DJI consumer drones, these wetsuits have received notable praise for their effectiveness.
The wetsuit is thoughtfully engineered to safeguard the drone’s critical components from water damage. With its user-friendly design, it’s easily installable within approximately five minutes, making it a handy accessory for every drone enthusiast.
Adding to the functional benefits, the wetsuit comes in two vibrant shades – neon red and neon blue. These bright colours not only add aesthetic appeal but also enhance the visibility of the drone in the sky. This feature is particularly beneficial in poor weather conditions or long-distance flights, offering an added layer of safety.
By investing in a DJI Mini 2 wetsuit, you’ll not only be extending the lifespan of your drone but also enhancing your drone-flying experience, regardless of the weather conditions.
Accessories for Enhancing Water Resistance
Investing in a waterproof case for the DJI Mini 2 can offer additional protection from water exposure during transportation and storage. These cases are designed to provide a watertight seal, shielding the drone from moisture, dust, and other contaminants.
Utilising a water-resistant landing pad can help prevent water ingress by minimising direct contact between the drone and wet surfaces during take-off and landing. These pads often feature non-slip materials and can be easily folded for portability.
Steps to follow if the drone gets wet
In the event that the DJI Mini 2 becomes wet, users should immediately power off the drone, remove the battery, and dry all components thoroughly with a soft, lint-free cloth. It is also advisable to place the drone in a container with desiccants, such as silica gel packets, to absorb residual moisture.
Identifying Water Damage in DJI Mini 2
Visible signs of water damage may include corrosion, discolouration, or the presence of moisture inside the drone’s components. Inspecting the drone meticulously after water exposure is essential to identify any potential damage.
Water damage may result in various functional issues, such as erratic flight behaviour, loss of signal, or unresponsive controls. If any of these issues are observed after water exposure, users should seek professional assistance for diagnostics and repairs.
DJI Care Refresh and Water Damage Coverage
DJI Care Refresh is an optional insurance plan that provides coverage for accidental damage to DJI drones, including water damage. This plan offers up to two replacement units within a 12-month period, subject to a service fee.
Claim process and limitations
To file a claim for water damage under DJI Care Refresh, users must submit a request through the DJI website, providing relevant information such as the drone’s serial number and a description of the incident. Upon approval, the user will be required to send the damaged drone to an authorised DJI repair centre for evaluation. It is important to note that coverage is subject to certain terms and conditions, and not all water damage incidents may be eligible for replacement.
Repair Options for Water-Damaged DJI Mini 2
Official DJI repair services
DJI offers official repair services for drones that have sustained water damage. Users can submit a repair request through the DJI website and upon approval, send the drone to an authorised repair centre. The cost of repairs will depend on the extent of the damage and whether the user has purchased DJI Care Refresh.
Third-party repair options
In some cases, users may opt for third-party repair services to address water damage. These independent repair centres may offer competitive pricing and faster turnaround times. However, it is crucial to verify the credibility and expertise of the service provider to ensure the quality of repairs.
Future Drone Design Trends
As the drone industry continues to evolve, DJI may prioritise the development of waterproof and water-resistant designs for their consumer drones. Obviously, there is a huge demand for waterproof drones, and DJI has the money and R&D to produce them.
Future drones may incorporate advanced sealing techniques, self-healing materials, and other innovative features that enhance water resistance and durability. I certainly hope that DJI and other drone companies develop drones that have some form of resistance to wet conditions.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, to the original question of this article, is the DJI Mini 2 waterproof? the answer is a definite no, and users should exercise caution when operating the drone in wet environments. While anecdotal evidence suggests that the Mini 2 may withstand minimal water exposure, relying on such experiences as a measure of the drone’s water resistance capabilities is ill-advised.
To prevent water-related damage to the DJI Mini 2, users should adhere to manufacturer guidelines, avoid flying in adverse weather conditions, invest in protective accessories, and follow best practices for drone maintenance and operation. By doing so, users can ensure the longevity and optimal performance of their drone while minimising the risk of water damage.
We’d love to hear about your experiences with the DJI Mini 2 and water exposure. Share your stories and tips in the comments below.
