Steve, thanks for your succinct video on drones and specifically the NEO! It's always easy to listen to and get up to date with your UA-cam posts. Keep them coming!
Another great video Steve. Always enjoy your take on the drones you use. I've been watching alot of videos with the neo tracking from behind and i've got to say i'm impressed since the neo doesn't have optical sensors. Makes me wonder if the AI programming will be incorporated into the mini 4 pro I already have. Seems like the neo avoids obstacles by following the path of the user rather than the optical sensors on the mini 4 pro. I notice the mini 4 pro does swing wide in some conditions were as the neo just follows along the users path. Interesting times we live in. Cheers Steve.
Thanks so much John! I think it's quite clever how DJI implemented the follow features without additional sensors. I'm sure it will have its limits though - haha! Anyhow, I can't wait to give it a go and see how it does. Thanks for watching and thanks for the comment. Cheers!
Thank you! It's good to be back! Oh man, I loved my Spark and still do. Hope you noticed the Spark clip I put in the video. It scaled up to 4K quite well. The Spark was way ahead of its time. Happy flying!
I've just ordered the combo version and getting it today, I have the Mini 2 drone too so it will be interesting to compare the two drones side by side.
First of all. The Neo gets a maximum of 18 mins of flight time. My Mini 3 gets 35 mins of flight time on one battery. It wasn't a hassle before, nor is it now. I have had this long before the Neo. If some want to use as a flying selfie or small flights for scenic hops that'll work for Neo. If you longer flights, you'll need DJI mini 2 se or mini 3 se while better drones get hire in price. Neo has its great points. The batteries still need to be charged.
Absolutely! It really comes down to how YOU use it. I have a Mini 4 Pro for paid work but when I'm hiking with my wife and dog a NEO makes better sense just to grab a few clips or photos from the adventure. Cheers!
I've already got a DJI mini 4 pro and the Avata 2, both in fly more combo so I'm not sure I even need a Neo ??? I better probably get it just in case something goes wrong with the other 2 drones 😎👍
That's a great question! I don't specifically have a Lark M2, I have a Lark M1 and other non-DJI wireless mics. My NEO arrives on Thursday (fingers crossed) so I will test them out and report back on your comment.
I had an original Mavic Mini. Would you say the footage the Neo produces would be equal or better than that? I sold my mini because I was concerned with the increasing faa intrusion. I think the Neo would be a good fit for me (I have no interest in it's autonomous features, I'll be getting the rcn3 remote).
Answering that question today, based on what I've shot so far, I would almost give the edge to the original Mavic Mini. Most of my shots have been under cloudy skies so I don't think I've given it a fair shake yet however. Also, low-light is not great - it breaks down pretty quick. Still though, I think it's too early. I feel like DJI still has some tweaking to do and I need to do some extensive side-by-side comparisons. Cheers!
But the biggest problem is unfortunate the large amount of no fly zones. This drone is also forced to meet all of these requirements. Means eg impossible to users in cities, natureparks etc
In Canada, it's not really too much of an issue. Sub-250 grams is almost restriction free. And, honestly as long as you're flying respectfully and safely it's usually not a problem. Cheers!
The first thing you need to know if you’re new to DJI drones is to never NEVER ! buy the first generation of any drone they produce they always hold back quite a few options, which they will call “upgrades” in the next generation. Also a lot of the functionality is also held back even though it should be on the first generation drone so they can sell you another one. Those of us who have spent much time and 💵 💵 💵 with DJI know to wait before you spend your money.
That's every electronics manufacturer. And normally, I'd agree, like the 1st FPV drone, don't buy that. But this at £169? I'm gonna be on about half a dozen trips, at least before v2 is released, and i want this for them. The size and cost with 4k means this is a no brainer day1.
It’s 200 dollars. If it were more expensive, I would agree with you…. But at 200 dollars it’s an easy buy. I think there will be some software fixes in the near future that will improve this model before the PRO version comes out.
First generation DJI drones do have the feel like they are intentionally holding back. Now, is this because they like to sell us on upgraded models year over year or is it because they want to see how the market reacts before putting in more money and engineering effort? Who knows. DJI's been in the drone business for a long time now so it's hard to believe they couldn't do better in some areas with a 1.0 version. The Spark was a notable exception. I really don't think DJI is much different than most consumer electronic companies in that regard though. Regardless, for under $200 US, this is a pretty cool drone. Like I always say to folks, if it fits your needs and your budget, go for it. There will always be something better next year. Cheers!
@@SteveCoutts u right, I’m enjoying the mini 2 and I got new nd filters so I feel comfortable sitting tight although I tried my friends mini 4 and it’s insane how wonderful the quality is I love the R.C. pro and I currently fly with my iPad Pro but the R.C. pro is so convenient
Yeah, totally. The video would have been waaaaaaaay too long if I started getting in to the weeds so I just tried to hit the major highlights. Good point and thanks for adding it. Cheers!
I have been in contact with DJI over the NEO, i asked them if this new drone can be flown without any app? they sent me a digital manual which seems to suggest that it does need an app to not only fly but to set it up, i thought this new tiny drone could be flown without any app, seems that is not the case.
You can absolutely fly it without the app, I've done it many times already. It is correct though you have to use the app to "authorize it" and do the initial set up. As I said in the video, it is recommended (you really have no choice) to link the app to the drone, before you fly it in case you need to take manual control in an emergency. You need the app to change settings as well. Once it's set up though, you can fly the NEO without pulling out your phone and engaging with the app. Cheers!
@@SteveCoutts Interesting, so if someone buys this drone and they have an old "dumb phone" thinking they can just take it out of the box if and fly would be shocked to find out they need an app.
@@ptaylor5014 Of course not. You need a phone (or a tablet) running the DJI Fly app to activate it. It's something DJI has sort of caught flak for in the past. Folks with older phones, Android especially, couldn't run the Fly app and couldn't activate their drones. Technically though, once it is activated you CAN fly it without a phone. It would be nice in the future if DJI worked towards getting activation moved online so, as you mention, folks with older, "dumb" phones could get in on the action without having to buy something extra.
I don't think the Mini 2 shipped with an RC-N2, at least not in the original version. Perhaps the Mini 2 SE did. I actually thought I had an RC-N2 and I literally just checked it and it's not. It's an RC-N1 that came with my Mini 2. To be sure, just flip it over and grab the model number and search for it in Google. That should eliminate the guess work. Cheers! PS Hi from British Columbia, Canada! 😀
I did buy one. If the lovely folks at DHL hold up their end up of things I will have it on Thursday. I have been doing ok. I had a long hiatus from UA-cam. Long story but I'm happy to be back. Hope you and your family are doing great! Thanks for stopping by and saying "hey" Bill. Cheers!
@@SteveCoutts they aren't selling the flymore with the new RCN3 controller in the US until after October when the Air 3s comes out using the new RCN3 controller - I assume the Air 3s will be released in the US first on it's release and it will be quickly followed by the Neo combo with controller
WOW Bro, 5 yrs ago u called IT! Curious HOW can billion dollar DJi not make this super lightweight way more quiet?! And advertising 18 min battery when more like 13 should be illegal and also the Neo captures should be way more smooth
Haha! Yeah, I got pretty close on that one. I completely agree on your other points. It's exactly like when the original DJI Mini was released. So much was good about it, yet they missed on so many points. It wasn't like it was their first drone. Is this DJI just throwing spaghetti against the wall to see what sticks? Then, if it sticks (resonates with consumers) they pour more money and engineering muscle in to it? As a general rule you never want to buy a 1.0 product from DJI although there have been some exceptions, like the Spark. Thanks for watching and the comment.
@@SteveCoutts hi,I received mine today,it's not a bad drone for the money, but the video quality is very disappointing,and doesn't fly very well in doors unless it's really well lit,it just self lands.
@@darrenowens1543 Cool. Thanks for the feedback. I figured video quality would be disappointing for some. I am eager to get my hands on it and see how it does. It's not uncommon for DJI to tweak some of the image processing after the fact, so I am hopeful there may be some improvement. I will be definitely be sharing my findings.
@@SteveCouttsHehe. Well said. I could be a Hasselblad Snob with my Mavic 3 Pro, but honestly, I fly Air 3 much more, for reasons too numerous to list here, and Mini 4 Pro for stealth. Unfortunately Neo is not the stealth master with those little whiny props! But it's awesome to learn Manual FPV vs. bashing up the Avata 2 - until I get more skills abd less crashes. Neo is so light it takes a crash, and doesn't destroy itself with its own mass! 😂
@@BlairAir Cheers John! I just unboxed my NEO today. Maybe not as loud as I was expecting but, yeah, pretty darn loud. Definitely not stealth. Each of us are going to have our reasons for flying what we fly. There is no right or wrong, it's what ever works best for the individual. Good point on learning FPV on the less expensive NEO. I have only flown it for an hour or so and I can totally see me getting hooked on the FPV style. I've been lusting after one since the original DJI FPV but it always felt too expensive knowing my novice experience for piloting one. NEO breaks that barrier and under 250g makes it even more appealing in Canada. Cheers!
Steve, thanks for your succinct video on drones and specifically the NEO! It's always easy to listen to and get up to date with your UA-cam posts. Keep them coming!
Dan, thanks so much for the kind words, I REALLY appreciate it. Cheers!
The Neo is an interesting drone, its very versatile. Thanks for sharing Steve.
Nice to hear from you Ron. I've been flying the heck out of mine and I am really enjoying it!
Another great video Steve. Always enjoy your take on the drones you use. I've been watching alot of videos with the neo tracking from behind and i've got to say i'm impressed since the neo doesn't have optical sensors. Makes me wonder if the AI programming will be incorporated into the mini 4 pro I already have. Seems like the neo avoids obstacles by following the path of the user rather than the optical sensors on the mini 4 pro. I notice the mini 4 pro does swing wide in some conditions were as the neo just follows along the users path. Interesting times we live in. Cheers Steve.
Thanks so much John! I think it's quite clever how DJI implemented the follow features without additional sensors. I'm sure it will have its limits though - haha! Anyhow, I can't wait to give it a go and see how it does. Thanks for watching and thanks for the comment. Cheers!
Nice to see u again Steve,. Bcz of u I buying Spark, my 1st drone.
Thank you! It's good to be back! Oh man, I loved my Spark and still do. Hope you noticed the Spark clip I put in the video. It scaled up to 4K quite well. The Spark was way ahead of its time. Happy flying!
A big fan since the spark, keep it up Steve
Thanks Jasper! I REALLY appreciate it!
I've just ordered the combo version and getting it today, I have the Mini 2 drone too so it will be interesting to compare the two drones side by side.
Nice! I think that will be a pretty fun combo. Each having their own advantages. Best of luck with your NEO!
First of all. The Neo gets a maximum of 18 mins of flight time. My Mini 3 gets 35 mins of flight time on one battery. It wasn't a hassle before, nor is it now. I have had this long before the Neo. If some want to use as a flying selfie or small flights for scenic hops that'll work for Neo. If you longer flights, you'll need DJI mini 2 se or mini 3 se while better drones get hire in price. Neo has its great points. The batteries still need to be charged.
Absolutely! It really comes down to how YOU use it. I have a Mini 4 Pro for paid work but when I'm hiking with my wife and dog a NEO makes better sense just to grab a few clips or photos from the adventure. Cheers!
I've already got a DJI mini 4 pro and the Avata 2, both in fly more combo so I'm not sure I even need a Neo ??? I better probably get it just in case something goes wrong with the other 2 drones 😎👍
Mini 4 Pro + Avata 2 is a really sweet combo!! I don't have an Avata to compare it against but this little NEO is ridiculously fun to fly! Cheers!
Will the NEO work with other mics? Like the Hollyland Lark2? Just curious. Great info. Awesome video, thank you so much for posting this.
That's a great question! I don't specifically have a Lark M2, I have a Lark M1 and other non-DJI wireless mics. My NEO arrives on Thursday (fingers crossed) so I will test them out and report back on your comment.
@@SteveCoutts thank you very much! I truly appreciate your kind reply.
I had an original Mavic Mini. Would you say the footage the Neo produces would be equal or better than that? I sold my mini because I was concerned with the increasing faa intrusion. I think the Neo would be a good fit for me (I have no interest in it's autonomous features, I'll be getting the rcn3 remote).
Answering that question today, based on what I've shot so far, I would almost give the edge to the original Mavic Mini. Most of my shots have been under cloudy skies so I don't think I've given it a fair shake yet however. Also, low-light is not great - it breaks down pretty quick. Still though, I think it's too early. I feel like DJI still has some tweaking to do and I need to do some extensive side-by-side comparisons. Cheers!
@@SteveCoutts thanks for the info. I found the 1080p setting on the Mavic to be decent. I mean, decent for my purposes.
But the biggest problem is unfortunate the large amount of no fly zones. This drone is also forced to meet all of these requirements. Means eg impossible to users in cities, natureparks etc
In Canada, it's not really too much of an issue. Sub-250 grams is almost restriction free. And, honestly as long as you're flying respectfully and safely it's usually not a problem. Cheers!
@@SteveCoutts in europe the rules are very strict. Also for camera drones under 250grams. Many many many no fly zones unfortunate....
Watching this AFTER I bought the dji neo.
Nice! Have fun with it! With any luck mine is arriving Thursday. I haven't been this excited about a DJI drone in a while.
The first thing you need to know if you’re new to DJI drones is to never NEVER ! buy the first generation of any drone they produce they always hold back quite a few options, which they will call “upgrades” in the next generation. Also a lot of the functionality is also held back even though it should be on the first generation drone so they can sell you another one. Those of us who have spent much time and 💵 💵 💵 with DJI know to wait before you spend your money.
That's every electronics manufacturer. And normally, I'd agree, like the 1st FPV drone, don't buy that. But this at £169? I'm gonna be on about half a dozen trips, at least before v2 is released, and i want this for them. The size and cost with 4k means this is a no brainer day1.
It’s 200 dollars. If it were more expensive, I would agree with you…. But at 200 dollars it’s an easy buy. I think there will be some software fixes in the near future that will improve this model before the PRO version comes out.
At this price, it's practically disposable. And one could always resell to get some $ back.
First generation DJI drones do have the feel like they are intentionally holding back. Now, is this because they like to sell us on upgraded models year over year or is it because they want to see how the market reacts before putting in more money and engineering effort? Who knows. DJI's been in the drone business for a long time now so it's hard to believe they couldn't do better in some areas with a 1.0 version. The Spark was a notable exception.
I really don't think DJI is much different than most consumer electronic companies in that regard though.
Regardless, for under $200 US, this is a pretty cool drone. Like I always say to folks, if it fits your needs and your budget, go for it. There will always be something better next year. Cheers!
Totally!
Sticking to my mini 2, I didn’t end up getting the mini 4 because I received the mini 2 for my birthday 🎉
Absolutely Louis! The 2nd or 3rd NEO will be the one you want. Cheers!
@@SteveCoutts u right, I’m enjoying the mini 2 and I got new nd filters so I feel comfortable sitting tight although I tried my friends mini 4 and it’s insane how wonderful the quality is I love the R.C. pro and I currently fly with my iPad Pro but the R.C. pro is so convenient
Also be aware - no panorama modes, so if you want to take those (especially spherical panoramas for VR) it's a no go.
Yeah, totally. The video would have been waaaaaaaay too long if I started getting in to the weeds so I just tried to hit the major highlights. Good point and thanks for adding it. Cheers!
I have been in contact with DJI over the NEO, i asked them if this new drone can be flown without any app? they sent me a digital manual which seems to suggest that it does need an app to not only fly but to set it up, i thought this new tiny drone could be flown without any app, seems that is not the case.
You can absolutely fly it without the app, I've done it many times already. It is correct though you have to use the app to "authorize it" and do the initial set up. As I said in the video, it is recommended (you really have no choice) to link the app to the drone, before you fly it in case you need to take manual control in an emergency. You need the app to change settings as well. Once it's set up though, you can fly the NEO without pulling out your phone and engaging with the app. Cheers!
@@SteveCoutts Interesting, so if someone buys this drone and they have an old "dumb phone" thinking they can just take it out of the box if and fly would be shocked to find out they need an app.
@@ptaylor5014 Of course not. You need a phone (or a tablet) running the DJI Fly app to activate it. It's something DJI has sort of caught flak for in the past. Folks with older phones, Android especially, couldn't run the Fly app and couldn't activate their drones. Technically though, once it is activated you CAN fly it without a phone. It would be nice in the future if DJI worked towards getting activation moved online so, as you mention, folks with older, "dumb" phones could get in on the action without having to buy something extra.
hi from Canada, love the Info. Q: i got the DJI mini2 so the controller will work?
I don't think the Mini 2 shipped with an RC-N2, at least not in the original version. Perhaps the Mini 2 SE did. I actually thought I had an RC-N2 and I literally just checked it and it's not. It's an RC-N1 that came with my Mini 2.
To be sure, just flip it over and grab the model number and search for it in Google. That should eliminate the guess work. Cheers!
PS Hi from British Columbia, Canada! 😀
@@SteveCoutts thx for the feedback friend
@@Stefoshark You bet! Thanks for your support.
Make it 4K and a 1" sensor and you have a winner!
Haha! Totally! I'm sure we will see a "NEO Pro" sooner than later. Cheers!
I actually thought you bought one !! How you been doing ?? Wanted to stop in and say Hey ...so ....
HEY !!
I did buy one. If the lovely folks at DHL hold up their end up of things I will have it on Thursday.
I have been doing ok. I had a long hiatus from UA-cam. Long story but I'm happy to be back. Hope you and your family are doing great!
Thanks for stopping by and saying "hey" Bill. Cheers!
@@SteveCoutts they won't even ship in the USA until after Oct 8
@@CoasttoCoastDrones What?!?! That's crazy! I'm usually jealous of you guys getting it next day while I wait for a week or two.
@@SteveCoutts they aren't selling the flymore with the new RCN3 controller in the US until after October when the Air 3s comes out using the new RCN3 controller - I assume the Air 3s will be released in the US first on it's release and it will be quickly followed by the Neo combo with controller
@@CoasttoCoastDrones You don't NEED anymore drones Bill. 😉
WOW Bro, 5 yrs ago u called IT! Curious HOW can billion dollar DJi not make this super lightweight way more quiet?! And advertising 18 min battery when more like 13 should be illegal and also the Neo captures should be way more smooth
Haha! Yeah, I got pretty close on that one. I completely agree on your other points. It's exactly like when the original DJI Mini was released. So much was good about it, yet they missed on so many points. It wasn't like it was their first drone.
Is this DJI just throwing spaghetti against the wall to see what sticks? Then, if it sticks (resonates with consumers) they pour more money and engineering muscle in to it? As a general rule you never want to buy a 1.0 product from DJI although there have been some exceptions, like the Spark. Thanks for watching and the comment.
😮
Hi,do you own this drone ,have you flown it?
I have not flown it. If the lovely folks at DHL do their job I will be flying one on Thursday. That's when the fun begins! Cheers!
@@SteveCoutts hi,I received mine today,it's not a bad drone for the money, but the video quality is very disappointing,and doesn't fly very well in doors unless it's really well lit,it just self lands.
@@darrenowens1543 Cool. Thanks for the feedback. I figured video quality would be disappointing for some. I am eager to get my hands on it and see how it does. It's not uncommon for DJI to tweak some of the image processing after the fact, so I am hopeful there may be some improvement.
I will be definitely be sharing my findings.
bad video quality a toy nothing else..
Unless you are using them professionally, they're ALL toys. 😀
@@SteveCouttsHehe. Well said. I could be a Hasselblad Snob with my Mavic 3 Pro, but honestly, I fly Air 3 much more, for reasons too numerous to list here, and Mini 4 Pro for stealth. Unfortunately Neo is not the stealth master with those little whiny props! But it's awesome to learn Manual FPV vs. bashing up the Avata 2 - until I get more skills abd less crashes. Neo is so light it takes a crash, and doesn't destroy itself with its own mass! 😂
@@BlairAir Cheers John! I just unboxed my NEO today. Maybe not as loud as I was expecting but, yeah, pretty darn loud. Definitely not stealth. Each of us are going to have our reasons for flying what we fly. There is no right or wrong, it's what ever works best for the individual. Good point on learning FPV on the less expensive NEO. I have only flown it for an hour or so and I can totally see me getting hooked on the FPV style. I've been lusting after one since the original DJI FPV but it always felt too expensive knowing my novice experience for piloting one. NEO breaks that barrier and under 250g makes it even more appealing in Canada. Cheers!