The DJI Neo, weighing a mere 135 grams and measuring just 155 millimeters in diameter, is DJI’s smallest and lightest drone to date. It is also the most budget-friendly model, with a preorder price of $199 (£169). Remarkably, it is lighter than the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which weighs 221 grams, making it an excellent choice for those who need a highly portable drone for capturing aerial shots. Nevertheless, its compact size does present some challenges.
One notable limitation is its flight time, which peaks at around 18 minutes per charge in ideal conditions. This figure assumes a calm environment; the drone’s minimal weight means it is particularly vulnerable to wind, which can drastically shorten the flight time in less favorable conditions.
The Neo charges via a USB-C port, with DJI claiming a charge time of approximately 50 minutes using a 15-watt charger. For those needing longer flight times, the optional charging hub, which supports 60-watt inputs, can charge up to three batteries simultaneously in about an hour. The Fly More Combo, priced at $289, includes the charging hub and three batteries, making it a valuable addition for extended flying sessions.
Despite its small footprint, the Neo is easy to maneuver. I found it agile enough to navigate through indoor spaces, though it lacks the 360-degree obstacle sensing found in more expensive models. It does come with built-in propeller guards and an optional cage to help minimize damage from accidental bumps.
The drone features a camera with a half-inch image sensor and an f/2.8 aperture, offering 4K video recording at up to 30 frames per second. Switching to 1080p resolution increases the frame rate to 60fps. While the video quality is adequate for a drone of this size, it does not match the clarity and detail of DJI’s higher-end models. It struggles with bright conditions and performs poorly in low light.
The Neo includes several intelligent flight modes, such as subject tracking and object circling. It can also be flown without a controller by activating a flight mode from a button on the drone itself, allowing it to take off from your palm. This could be a convenient feature for travelers who prefer to carry only the drone.
Although it lacks expandable storage, the Neo offers 20GB of internal storage. Early reviews suggest it is a fun and accessible option for beginners or for those looking to explore aerial photography without a significant investment. For more professional-grade footage, however, DJI’s Mini series may be a better fit.