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DJI NEO vs Hoverair X1 Pro: Which Selfie Drone Should You Buy in 2024?

Film & Animation

Introduction

When it comes to selfie drones, there are two new players set to make waves in the market: the DJI NEO and the Hoverair X1 Pro. Both of these drones are tailored for vloggers, travelers, and anyone keen on capturing stunning aerial selfies. However, each has its unique features and specifications that could sway your choice. In this article, we’ll delve into the key specifications, features, and overall performance of both drones to help you decide which one might be the best fit for your needs.

The Rise of Selfie Drones

To begin with, the world of selfie drones may have seemed niche, but their utility is undeniable. They offer a fresh perspective for photography and videography, especially for content creators on the go. On a recent trip to New Zealand, I found myself regretting not bringing a drone along, highlighting the convenience they can offer.

Camera Specifications

Both the DJI NEO and Hoverair X1 Pro come equipped with impressive camera technology. They both feature:

  • 4/3 Sensor with a 17mm wide lens
  • Photo Quality: 12 Megapixels
  • Video Recording:
    • Hoverair X1 Pro: 4K at 60fps and 1080p at 120fps, making it ideal for slow-motion footage.
    • DJI NEO: 4K at 30fps and 1080p at 60fps.

The Hoverair clearly shines if you plan on film slow-motion videos, while both drones utilize Electronic Image Stabilization for smooth footage.

Flight Capability and Storage

Regarding flight time, the specs are quite comparable:

  • Hoverair X1 Pro: 16 minutes of flight time
  • DJI NEO: 18 minutes of flight time

Between the two, it’s unlikely you’d notice a significant difference in usage. Storage-wise, the Hoverair has a 32GB built-in capacity with an SD card slot allowing expansions up to 1TB. In contrast, the NEO has only 22GB of internal storage and lacks an SD card slot, limiting your options when it comes to saving footage.

Weights are as follows:

  • Hoverair X1 Pro: 192g
  • DJI NEO: 135g

Both drones fall under weight limits that avoid the need for FAA registration in the US.

Max Altitude and Accessories

The Hoverair offers a maximum altitude of 121 meters, while the DJI NEO rises to about 50 meters when using the DJI Fly app. Setup is quick and easy for both drones since there is no need for a controller; you simply power them up and choose the flying mode.

Hoverair X1 Pro Accessories

One of the standout features of the Hoverair X1 Pro is a device called a Beacon which allows the drone to track an individual without visual cues. There's also a remote-control capability when the handles are clipped onto the Beacon, offering a significant range improvement of up to 1 km instead of just 120m.

Additionally, the Clamshell Charging Case provides a neat way to charge the drone while it’s stored, perfect for on-the-go travelers.

DJI NEO Features

The DJI NEO comes with its own set of innovative features including:

  • Quick Shots: Various aerobatic maneuvers.
  • Automatic Horizon Balancing.
  • DJI Fly App: Edit and share footage seamlessly.
  • Audio Recording: Through the DJI Mic 2, which can remove propeller noise automatically.
  • Voice Control: Wake the drone with a simple voice command.
  • Range Expansion: If paired with the DJI RCN3 controller, the NEO can achieve a range of up to 10 km.

Pricing Overview

Price is always a factor in making your choice. The Hoverair X1 Pro retails for $ 499 but offers a presale price of $ 399 on Indiegogo. The DJI NEO is priced lower at $ 299 and is set to release in the first half of September.

Conclusion: Which Drone is Right for You?

If you’re entering the world of drones for the first time, the Hoverair X1 Pro is likely your best bet. Its enhanced storage, better video quality, and experience in the selfie drone market make it a strong contender. However, if you already own DJI gear and enjoy their ecosystem, the DJI NEO could be more appealing thanks to its additional features and versatility.

In the end, both drones have their merits, and either can fulfill your aerial photography needs wonderfully.

Keywords

selfie drone, DJI NEO, Hoverair X1 Pro, camera specifications, flight time, storage, hover air, DJFly app, audio recording, remote control

FAQ

1. What are the key differences between the DJI NEO and Hoverair X1 Pro?
The Hoverair X1 Pro offers better video capabilities (4K at 60fps), more storage, and a unique tracking device called a Beacon. The DJI NEO features voice control, a broader range when paired with the right controller, and the ability to connect to various DJI accessories.

2. Can I register either drone with the FAA?
No, both drones weigh under the FAA registration limit of 250 grams, so registration is not necessary.

3. How long can each drone fly on a single charge?
The Hoverair X1 Pro has a flight time of 16 minutes, while the DJI NEO can fly for 18 minutes.

4. Do I need a controller to fly these drones?
No, both drones can be launched and controlled via their respective apps without needing a traditional controller.

5. What is the price point for each drone?
The Hoverair X1 Pro has a retail price of $ 499 (pre-sale price is $ 399), while the DJI NEO is priced at $ 299.