When Autel released the original Evo it was built to compete directly with the Mavic, but it never really took off. Mostly because they didn’t have specs that were substantially better. However, both Evo 2 drones have some incredible specs and outpace the best of the Mavic lineup on a few ends. Now that DJI has landed on the DOC Entity List Autel is making a push with their Evo 2 lineup. The question is which is the better professional drone. Is the Evo 2 the best drone you can buy if you are a professional photographer? Let’s take a closer look.
Which Evo 2 is better, the 8K or the 6K?
If you aren’t paying attention then it may seem like 8K would be better than 6K but that isn’t the case when it comes to these two drones. Both have impressive cameras, but the 6K or Evo 2 Pro is the better camera and it isn’t really close. The Evo 2 Pro 6K uses a 1″ CMOS 20 MP sensor. It has an adjustable aperture of f/2.8-f/11. The Evo 2 8K has a 1/2″ Quad-Bayer sensor with a fixed aperture of f/1.8. The Quad Bayer filter allows what in simple terms equates to a 12 MP sensor being quadrupled to give you 48 MP. It sounds great and does have some added value over a standard 12 MP sensor, but in the end, it can’t stack up to the 1″ sensor in terms of quality.
The DJI Mavic Air 2 uses the same Quad-Bayer sensor and is almost half the cost. Sure the 8K version is less expensive, but if you want the best then you need to opt for the 6K. Whether you are filming in 8K or 6K you better make sure that you have a video editor and a computer that can handle it.
Is the Evo 2 Pro the best tool for the job?
The Evo 2 Pro 6K is an impressive drone. Its 10-bit color technology gives you excellent flexibility in post-processing. HDR in 4K allows you to capture some impressive detail. Hyperlight and the 1″ sensor combine to capture impressive nighttime and low light footage. The Evo 2 6K is a great tool for any professional photographer and it gives the Mavic 2 Pro a run for the money.
Evo II Specs
Outside of the camera the Evo 6K and 8K are identical drones. The specs of the Evo 2 are on par with some of the best drones in the industry. They boast a flight time of 5.5 miles (9 km). The Autel Evo 2 is a powerful drone with a max speed of 45 mph and wind resistance of up to 39 mph. The most impressive spec however is its 40 minute flight time.
Autel Evo 2 Features
The Evo II series also features a full 360-degree obstacle avoidance system. This system has 12 cameras as part of 19 groups of sensors that help to keep the drone out of harm’s way. These cameras and sensors help the Evo 2 navigate while engaged in its Dynamic Track 2.0.
Another giant bonus is that the cameras are interchangeable. It is easy to upgrade from the 8K to the 6K in the future if you decided. You could even swap to a compatible Evo thermal camera.
Evo 2 advantages
The Evo II Series has a handful of advantages over the Mavic 2 series of drones. We have already mentioned the longer flight time and 6K recording capabilities. You can also digitally zoom with the Evo or opt you utilize the extra pixels you get with 6K and do it in post-production.
The Evo 2 remote has a built-in screen. If you want this capability you’ll have to shell out another $700 to get the DJI Smart Controller. Autel also doesn’t have the flight restrictions that come with DJI products. If you want total freedom to fly where you want (responsibly of course). You will need to opt for an Autel drone.
In the end, the Evo II Pro 6K is an awesome drone. If you want a drone that isn’t on the DOC entity list then this is the best option for professionals. We have been flying the Evo 2 Pro 6K almost exclusively the last few weeks so stay tuned for more testing and content. The on the go bundle pictured above is a solid deal.