DJI‘s Mavic series sits at the top of the consumer drone market, with the recent Mavic 3 release joining the highly capable Air 2S in DJI‘s portfolio. But with over a $1000 price difference between these advanced flying cameras, which model is right for you?
This in-depth DJI Air 2S vs Mavic 3 comparison explores everything potential buyers need to know across 10 key areas. Read on for a detailed feature breakdown, performance comparisons and final recommendations based on budget and intended use.
Camera Quality and Shooting Modes
The Mavic 3‘s larger 4/3 CMOS Hasselblad sensor and tuned image processing delivers clearly superior image quality over the Air 2S‘s 1-inch sensor. Combined with the Mavic 3‘s secondary zoom camera, still photos and video will show more dynamic range, nuanced tones, and the ability to shoot in lower light levels.
For video, both drones can shoot 5K footage, but the Mavic 3 pushes up to 50fps at this resolution versus 30fps on the Air 2S. This helps capture faster action with smoother motion. At 4K resolution the Mavic 3 again leads with support for 120fps versus 60fps on the Air 2S – key for cinematic slo-mo effects.
The Mavic 3 also introduces 10-bit D-log color for more flexibility grading video footage. On the Air 2S side its HDR still photo mode helps capture detail in high contrast scenes.
Winner: Mavic 3
Flight Time
Thanks to a giant 5,000mAh battery, the Mavic 3 can achieve a maximum 46 minutes flight time under ideal conditions. This smashes the Air 2S‘s still very capable 31 minute rating from its smaller battery. In practice flight times will depend greatly on weather conditions, but the Mavic 3 has a clear edge to stay airborne for longer shoots or exploration flights.
Winner: Mavic 3
Range and Transmission
The Mavic 3 flies farther thanks to DJI‘s latest O3+ transmission tech achieving 15km range, vs 12km on the Air 2S‘s O3 system. Again real-world range depends on many factors, but the specs suggest the Mavic 3 can better maintain a solid video feed at distance.
Both models have dual-band Wi-Fi connections to link to a controller or mobile device. So for most users the Mavic 3‘s incremental range increase won‘t make a huge difference unless really pushing the boundaries.
Winner: Mavic 3
Obstacle Avoidance and Flight Safety
The Mavic 3 packs upgraded omnidirectional obstacle sensing for the safest flight capabilities yet from DJI. This combines forward, backward, downward and new side-facing sensors, helping the drone avoid crashes in complex environments.
The Air 2S still has excellent forward, downward and some rearward facing detection. But for newcomers or flying in dense areas, the Mavic 3‘s safer navigation gives more confidence.
Advanced Return to Home, landing protection and an emergency parachute system further improve safety on the Mavic 3.
Winner: Mavic 3
Intelligent Flight Modes
For capturing complex camera moves automated flight modes are really useful. The Mavic 3 brings tweaked versions with its ActiveTrack 5.0 and APAS 5.0 systems. These build on the already excellent tracking and navigation around obstacles found in the Air 2S.
Both models also use GPS and GLONASS for positioning and offer the same Quickshot modes like rocket-style rises with the camera pointing down. So for semi-automated capture the core capabilities are very strong on both models.
Winner: Draw
Speed and Agility
DJI quotes a maximum speed of 19 meters per second (around 42mph) on both the Mavic 3 and Air 2S. So in ideal conditions with Sport mode engaged they can hit the same top speeds. Although the Mavic 3‘s greater mass may slow its acceleration fractionally.
For maneuverability the Air 2S‘s smaller size and weight helps it change direction very quickly – handy for keeping fast-moving subjects in frame. The Mavic 3 is still reasonably nimble given its larger airframe and heavier-duty design.
Winner: Air 2S
Portability
Extreme portability isn‘t a priority for a flagship drone like the Mavic 3. Its large airframe does fold down neatly, but at 905g it weighs considerably more than the Air 2S‘s 595g – a 35% increase before you even factor in a bigger battery and accessories.
When folded the Mavic 3 measures 221x96x90mm versus a more compact 180x97x77mm for the Air 2S. So if you need a drone that packs super small for travel, the Air 2S has a definite edge.
Winner: Air 2S
Controllers and Connectivity
Both drones work with DJI‘s standard RC-N1 remote controller or can be flown using just a mobile device attached to the drone. The Mavic 3 opens up further options via USB-C or HDMI ports allowing controls like the DJI Motion Controller for manual flight.
The latest Occusync 3.0 transmission in the Mavic 3 gives a 1080p feed to compatible controllers like DJI‘s smart controller RC Pro. But the Air 2S‘s OcuSync 2.0 still streams clear 720p video. So for most users there‘s minimal difference in terms of connectivity and controls here.
Winner: Draw
Accessories and Upgrades
As DJI‘s flagship consumer drone, the Mavic 3 unsurprisingly has the most expansive range of official accessories from the maker. Everything from ND filters to extended batteries, spare props to charging hubs are either already available or slated for release soon.
Many third party accessories will likely be made specifically for the Mavic 3 given its high sales potential. While the Air 2S taps into the wider Mavic ecosystem so isn‘t bereft of options.
For buyers wanting to grow their gear over time or customize their drone, the Mavic 3 definitely provides more scope here versus the Air 2S.
Winner: Mavic 3
Price and Value Comparison
All the flagship features and performance translates into an eye-watering $2,199 MSRP for the Mavic 3 base package. That‘s over double the $999 cost of an Air 2S starter kit with remote controller.
Stepping up to the Mavic 3 Fly More Combo at $2,999 certainly piles on the accessories. But you still get an impressive drone, two extra batteries, ND filters, battery charging hub and shoulder bag for $1,000 less than the base Mavic 3 price.
So buyers simply wanting an advanced easy-to-fly camera drone should consider the Air 2S a fantastic value option. While professionals, cinematographers and enthusiasts who can make the most of the Mavic 3‘s advantages may justify spending more.
Ultimately both represent impressive aerial photography tools versus their price. But the Mavic 3 stretches what‘s possible for a consumer/prosumer drone today, albeit for a premium price tag.
Winner: Air 2S for value, Mavic 3 for performance
DJI Air 2S vs Mavic 3 – Final Verdict
For many buyers, the DJI Air 2S represents the best middle ground of capability versus price in DJI‘s line-up. It brings incredible stability, safety features, a great onboard camera and video transmission for under $1000. This makes it our top recommendation for users buying their first advanced drone or anyone wanting great results without maximum expenditure.
But if you need the absolute best image quality in an ultra-portable form factor, require the longest flight times, or plan to push limits in terms of speed, range or accessories – the Mavic 3 undoubtedly delivers. There‘s a price premium but also next-level performance befitting DJI‘s flagship foldable drone. Professional aerial photographers, cinematographers and demanding enthusiasts will better leverage what the Mavic 3 brings to the table.
So choosing between the Air 2S and Mavic 3 ultimately comes down to knowing your budget and intended application. Both are phenomenal flying cameras – just select the model best matched to your needs and flying style.
