The DJI Mavic 2 Zoom (It’s Better than the Mavic 2 Pro!)

Mavic 2 Zoom or Mavic 2 Pro?

There are now four different DJI Mavics to choose from and we would argue that each one has it’s own niche. However it is very clear that the Mavic 2 Zoom and Mavic 2 pro are a cut above the original Mavic and Mavic Air. The Mavic 2 models being nearly identical with the exception of the camera and we believe the Mavic 2 Zoom is the one you want. Yes, the Mavic 2 Pro camera looks better on paper but we believe the Mavic 2 Zoom is the one you want.

The Mavic 2 Zoom is better for most people

DJI released two versions of the Mavic 2 in July of 2018. So inevitably people want to know which one is better. The  Mavic 2 Zoom is the first commercial drone with optical zoom. The Mavic 2 Pro was developed in partnership with Hasselblad to carry a top-of-the-line camera with a 1″ sensor. While both drones are excellent, we believe the DJI Mavic 2 Zoom is the better drone for most people. You don’t believe us? It isn’t just our conclusion. The DroneDJ agrees as well. You can read about that at www.dronedj.com.

The Mavic 2 Zoom vs Mavic 2 Pro

Take a look at how these two drones compare when you look closer at their specs. You will find they are virtually identical, that is except for the camera and its capabilities.

With the exception of the camera, these two drones are almost identical. They are both a little larger and heavier than the original Mavic checking in at 2 lbs. Both have an impressive 8000 meter (5 mile) range and utilize the brand new OccuSync 2.0 video transmission signal for crystal clear video. The new Mavic 2 models are both equipped with the low-noise propellers making this a lot quieter than the previous Mavics and definitely quieter than the Phantom lineup.

Both Mavic 2 models have an impressive 31 minute flight time and upgraded APAS 2.0 six-direction obstacle avoidance sensors. In sport mode, both Mavics will top out at 45 mph. The Mavics both retain all of the easy to use cinematic flight modes and have added new aerial time-lapse modes. The time-lapse photography is a spectacular addition. However only the DJI Mavic 2 Zoom has the ability to zoom in on a subject. With the Zoom comes the unique Dolly Zoom feature that cannot be done with the Mavic 2 Pro.

For a full, in-depth comparison of the Mavic 2 Zoom vs Mavic 2 Pro click HERE.

The back of the Mavic 2 is loaded with more cameras.

Why is the Mavic 2 Zoom Better?

Looking at the specs above you will notice that these two drones are nearly identical, except for the cameras. You will also notice that the Mavic 2 Zoom is $200 less than the Mavic 2 Pro. $200 is a good chunk of change to save. Yes, the Hasselblad camera on the Pro is the best camera that DJI has released to date on their consumer drones, but the Zoom isn’t that far behind. It performs surprisingly well in multiple light applications. While we were skeptical about the Zoom feature it has come in handy already and is something that the Mavic Pro 2 just cannot do.

Mavic 2 Zoom Camera

The Mavic Zoom camera may not have a 1-inch sensor, but that doesn’t mean it can’t take excellent pictures and video. With its upgraded 1/2.3″ sensor this camera is still an upgrade over the original Mavic camera. The Mavic Zoom as the name implies also incorporates the ability for the pilot to zoom in with lossless mechanical 2X zoom for photos and 4K video and lossless 4X zoom when recording in 1080p. We were pleasantly surprised how well the zoom works.

Zoom is a feature we have grown to love on our Parrot Anafi and we are pleased that DJI finally decided to get on board. While the zoom certainly can be fun for hobbyists, it also has some very practical applications for inspections and unique perspectives that you can’t get with a wider field of view. DJI touts the Mavic 2’s quiet props and zoom lens as an ideal flying camera for wildlife.

Like the Anafi, the Mavic 2 Zoom adds a Dolly Zoom mode. This one-of-a-kind mode zooms in on the subject while flying backward to keep the size of the subject unchanged as the background morphs. While the Anafi does a 3X digital zoom during dolly zoom, the Mavic 2 Zoom can do up to 4X composite zoom using both digital and optical zoom.

Is that it for the Mavic 2 Zoom? No. DJI also included a 48-megapixel “Super Resolution” photo mode that seamlessly stitches 9 high-resolution photos together that are taken zoomed in to create a single 24 mm equivalent picture that has crazy high resolution.

So Which One Is Better?

We would argue that for most people the Mavic 2 Zoom is the right choice. The question is, what is most important to you? If you need the best and most professional quality images possible then the Pro is the way to go. If you prefer the flexibility and creativity that comes with the Zoom then that is the way to go. Of course, the price is also important with the Pro being $1449 and the Zoom being $200 less at $1249. Good luck and happy flying. Just know that both are excellent and whichever one you choose it is hard to go wrong.

Order a DJI Mavic 2 from DJI

What Is the BEST Drone (for you)?

So what is the absolute best drone out there? That question isn’t as easy to answer as you’d think. BUT…for most people the answer is the DJI Mavic Air. It is portable, has an awesome camera and excellent flight modes. Learn more about the Mavic Air HERE.

What Drone Is the Best VALUE?

The best value on the market today has to be the DJI Spark. Now under $400, this little dynamo can do things that once upon a time cost over $1000. Learn more about the DJI Spark HERE. Still too much money for you? There are still some great options. Check out our list of the best drones under $200.

Want More Options?

Every month we update what we believe are the best drones on the market. Check out Best Drones Now. We have also created the one-of-a-kind Half Chrome Drone Cipher™. You answer a few questions and we’ll pair you with the best drone for you.

Best Drones Now

Do you want to search by price? Click on your menu above or we can break it down for you. Check out drones under $50, from $50-100, from $100-200, from $200-500 or over $500. Maybe you like a good Top Ten list, we’ve got you covered.

Drones by Price

Learn More…

If you want to learn more about taking great pictures or flying FPV then check out our comprehensive guides on those topics. Also, take a look at our articles on how to choose the right drone for great aerial photos or for getting started flying race drones. Learn more about drones and how to get the most out of them in our Drone Academy. In the Academy, we also detail some of the advanced testing we do including drone thrust testing and camera quality testing.

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