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Pros
- Stabilized, triple-camera array
- Wide-angle Four Thirds camera with Hasselblad color
- Midrange 3x lens shows excellent picture quality
- Up to 5.1K30 or 4K120 video
- All-around obstacle sensors
- Includes a companion app and a remote with a built-in screen
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Cons
- Base model has just 8GB of onboard storage
- Falls shy of promised 43-minute flight time
- Only the pricey Cine model supports ProRes
DJI Mavic 3 Pro Specs
Dimensions | 3.8 by 3.9 by 9.1 inches |
Integrated Camera | Integrated with Gimbal |
Live Video Feed | 1080p |
Media Format | Internal |
Media Format | microSDXC |
Megapixels | 20 |
Obstacle Detection | |
Remote | Dedicated with LCD |
Rotors | 4 |
Video Resolution | 5.1K |
Weight | 2.1 |
The DJI Mavic 3 Pro (starting at $2,199) is a serious drone that's well-suited for independent filmmakers, travel vloggers, and aerial photography enthusiasts alike. The Pro version replaces the original Mavic 3 and comes with one big upgrade: a midrange telephoto optic that supplements the wide and long telephoto lenses. That new camera and excellent obstacle-avoidance sensors cement the Mavic 3 Pro's position at the top of the premium segment, even if DJI faces little real competition.
The Triple-Camera Drone
For the Mavic 3 Pro, DJI upgraded the camera module with a third sensor and lens but didn't make any other tech changes compared with the original Mavic 3. The stack includes a Four Thirds 20MP 24mm camera with Hasselblad color science, the new midrange Type 1/1.3 48MP 70mm (3x) combo, and a Type 1/2 12MP 166mm (7x) lens. The Pro replaces the original Mavic 3 in the lineup, as mentioned, but it starts at the same price as that older model so you don't pay a premium for the third camera.
![Close-up of DJI Mavic 3 Pro's three-camera imaging system](https://i.pcmag.com/imagery/reviews/04Ct0CSgSg3eI7mOLbjWuvQ-7.jpg)
The new mid-zoom camera makes far fewer image quality concessions than the 166mm lens, so it's a better bet for serious creative work. It supports D-Log color, for instance, whereas the 7x lens sticks with a standard color profile. That said, the extra-long lens still has value for special effect shots and industrial applications.
If you want to spend less, the Mavic 3 Classic ($1,599 with RC-N1 remote) matches the Mavic 3 Pro's capabilities but sticks with just the main 24mm camera. If you're buying the drone for real estate, travel vlogging, or aerial photography, it might be all you need.
![DJI Mavic 3 Pro folded for storage with protective cover installed](https://i.pcmag.com/imagery/reviews/04Ct0CSgSg3eI7mOLbjWuvQ-12.jpg)
All three versions so far—the original Mavic 3, the Classic, and now the Pro—use the same folding airframe with all-around obstacle avoidance. At 3.8 by 3.9 by 9.1 inches (HWD) in a folded position, it's easy to fit into a carry-on along with some other camera gear, though you still might want to place it in a backpack or shoulder bag when you travel between locations.
Unfolded and ready to fly, the drone comes in at 4.2 by 11.5 by 13.7 inches and 2.1 pounds (with a battery). It's heavy enough to require FAA registration, which incurs a modest $5 fee once every three years. I don't see this as a drawback for this particular model, especially since most who buy it are likely to use it for paid work. You also need a remote pilot certificate to fly any drone for money-making purposes. If you're not familiar with the rules and regulations that go with drones, check out our explainer.
Should You Step Up to the Cine?
DJI sells the Mavic 3 Pro in a few different configurations. The baseline $2,199 option includes the regular version of the drone, which supports H.264 and H.265 video with either 8- or 10-bit color and 8GB of internal storage. You also get the DJI RC, a remote with a built-in screen. You need to factor in the cost of a big microSD card though, as 8GB won't cut it for most video projects. DJI recommends V30 A2 microSD cards of up to 512GB, for reference.
![Front view of DJI RC](https://i.pcmag.com/imagery/reviews/04Ct0CSgSg3eI7mOLbjWuvQ-15.jpg)
Pilots can pick between two Fly More Combos. For $2,999, you get the drone with three batteries (instead of one), a multi-charger, a set of ND filters, and a shoulder bag. A premium bundle ($3,889) swaps the RC for the high-end RC Pro controller but otherwise includes all the same accessories.
![Carrying case included with Fly More Combos](https://i.pcmag.com/imagery/reviews/04Ct0CSgSg3eI7mOLbjWuvQ-13.jpg)
Savvy video producers with hardware that can handle ProRes footage can look to the top-end Mavic 3 Pro Cine model ($4,799). This is the configuration I received for review. The Cine adds support for ProRes 422 HQ, 422, and 422 LT encoding. It includes 1TB of onboard SSD storage (enough to handle big, high-bit-rate files) and bundles a 10Gbps USB-C Lightspeed cable for fast offloads.
![Front view of DJI RC Pro](https://i.pcmag.com/imagery/reviews/04Ct0CSgSg3eI7mOLbjWuvQ-1.jpg)
As for alternatives, DJI's next drone in the lineup is the Air 2S, which starts at $999. It sports a single camera with a Type 1 image sensor for 5.4K video and 20MP stills. And, of course, there's the Mavic 3 Classic for $1,599.
If you're looking for a different brand, Autel Robotics has the Evo Lite+ with a 20MP Type 1 sensor. Autel's video engine lags well behind the Mavic 3, but this drone is a good option for photogs who want a large sensor with in-lens aperture control. It regularly sells for less than its $1,549 launch price.
Autonomous Flight With Obstacle Avoidance
Many drones include obstacle avoidance features, including the Autel Evo Lite+, DJI Air 2S, and the Mini 3 Pro. The Mavic 3 models go a little further than others, however; its sensors completely surround the drone. These sensors are effective at recognizing most obstructions, thus allowing you to concentrate on camera work, but you should still take precautions when you fly around small tree branches and wires.
![Close-up of obstacle sensor](https://i.pcmag.com/imagery/reviews/04Ct0CSgSg3eI7mOLbjWuvQ-6.jpg)
The Mavic 3 Pro also features DJI's Advanced Pilot Assist System (APAS 5.0). APAS is essentially an autopilot assist for the drone that allows it to fly around obstacles by itself. In practice, APAS works very well, though it's not quite magical. With it active, the drone navigated easily around trees, but buildings occasionally tripped it up (it paused in place instead of navigating around the structure). This is all to say that it might occasionally require manual intervention. It also lowers your top flying speed depending on the complexity of your environment.
You can also use the Mavic 3 Pro as a follow-me drone. It uses Active Track 5.0 to follow people or vehicles (it doesn't work with pets or animals) at up to 4K60. I compared it to the Skydio 2 in my review of the original Mavic 3 and gave an edge to the former. However, the follow-up Skydio 2+ has been out of stock for some time (as has the original) and a representative for the company couldn't provide a timeline for a fresh batch; it's no longer something you can buy easily. In any case, the Mavic 3 Pro's 70mm camera should hold some appeal for adventurers after a follow-me drone.
Built-in GPS keeps the drone steady in the air and supports an automatic return-to-home function. DJI builds a geofence into its drones, so there are areas where the GPS prevents the drone from flying. For more on where you can (or can't) fly, refer to DJI's FlySafe map. If you prefer a drone without a baked-in geofence, the Autel Evo Lite+ is the best alternative.
Other safety features include an AirSense ADS-B sensor, which warns you if manned aircraft are operating nearby. The Mavic 3 Pro is also compliant with FAA Remote ID requirements. Its O3+ transmission system is rock-steady, too; it sends a smooth 1080p60 signal back to the remote, so you have a clear view through the drone's camera when you are trying to maneuver it through tight spaces.
The Mavic 3 Pro promises up to 43 minutes of flight time in ideal conditions. As such, you shouldn't have any issues conducting multiple takeoffs and landings throughout the day, recording long takes, or creating hyperlapse footage. In practice, I got closer to 35 minutes of actual fight time, so consider picking up a Fly More kit (which includes additional batteries and a multi-charger), especially if you plan to use the Mavic 3 professionally.
Remote Control and DJI Fly App
The standard Mavic 3 Pro comes with the DJI RC, which has a built-in screen and flight app. You need to tether to your phone or download offline maps for the in-app map feature to work, but the experience is otherwise the same as flying with a remote and a phone app combo.
![DJI Mavic 3 Pro, bottom showing obstacle and position sensors](https://i.pcmag.com/imagery/reviews/04Ct0CSgSg3eI7mOLbjWuvQ-4.jpg)
The RC includes a 5.5-inch, 1080p touch screen with 700 nits of maximum brightness, so it's not as large or bright as some smartphone displays. If you frequently fly in bright sunlight, the Fly More Combo with the DJI RC Pro might be a worthwhile upgrade, despite its high price. The RC Pro also has a 5.5-inch, 1080p touch screen, but is brighter at 1,000 nits. For reference, the Cine edition bundles the RC Pro.
The integrated DJI Fly app provides a through-the-lens camera view and touch-based access to settings and features. You can tap to swap between video and photo modes, switch lenses, and change camera settings. The app also drives the drone's many advanced capture features, including Active Track subject tracking, Hyperlapse, and automated Quick and Master Shot camera moves.
![DJI Mavic 3 Pro, rear view with propeller arms extended](https://i.pcmag.com/imagery/reviews/04Ct0CSgSg3eI7mOLbjWuvQ-5.jpg)
Both remotes and the app provide ready access to the automated return-to-home feature; it's a one-button or one-tap safety feature. If you have to make an emergency landing, use the Find My Drone feature to load up the aircraft's last location on a map.
A Hasselblad Wide Angle Plus Two Telephotos
The Mavic 3 Pro's camera module has three separate lenses, as mentioned. The main camera uses a 20MP Four Thirds sensor with Hasselblad color and has a 24mm F2.8 (equivalent) angle of view. It supports aperture control down to f/11, and you can add ND filters if you plan on using the drone for long-exposure photography or 24fps video in bright light. This lens supports JPG and DNG stills. As for video, options include 5.1K50, 4K at up to 120fps in DCI or UHD aspects, and up to 1080p200.
The Hasselblad color profile delivers a pleasing, faithful representation of the world without the need for color correction. An HLG profile is also available for HDR projects. You can swap to 10-bit D-Log or D-Log M color if you prefer to apply a grade in post, however. D-Log captures video with less color saturation and contrast than a standard profile so there's more room for editing. It's easy enough to apply a standard look by adding DJI's LUT to your editing software, but third-party film LUTs give you even more creative flexibility. I used a free one from RD-Films for the clip below.
The new mid-range (3x) 70mm camera's picture quality is right in line with drones like the discontinued Mavic 2 and the current-generation Mini 3 Pro. The Quad Bayer 48MP Type 1/1.3 sensor outputs detailed 12MP photos in JPG or DNG, as well as 4K60 video in your choice of DJI's standard color profile, HDR HLG, D-Log, or D-Log M. The sensor format isn't as large, and you don't get the Hasselblad color profile with this optic, but its picture quality is good enough to cut in with video from the main camera. The angle lets you get closer to subjects than most drone cameras, helpful for anything from cinema to real estate applications.
Finally, the 7x camera kicks in for the long end of the zoom range (a lossy digital zoom is available all the way to 28x). It delivers smartphone-quality pictures and 4K60 video with its 12MP Type 1/2 sensor but is limited to DJI's standard color profile. The real feature is its telephoto aspect—even at 166mm the Mavic 3 records silky smooth footage. Cinematographers might not like how unmalleable the standard color profile is in the editing room, but it's a fine option for industrial inspection work and shots where a tight angle of view is more important than perfect picture quality.
![DJI Mavic 3 Pro sample image, main camera, suburban development at sunset with a hazy view due to wildfire smoke](https://i.pcmag.com/imagery/reviews/04Ct0CSgSg3eI7mOLbjWuvQ-16.jpg)
All three cameras use H.264 or H.265 8-bit 4:2:0 for the standard color profiles, and the Hasselblad and 3x lenses also support 10-bit 4:2:0 for HLG and D-Log. If you opt to upgrade to the Cine version, you get all of the above, plus support for Apple's superior ProRes encoding format.
![DJI Mavic 3 Pro, 70mm lens sample image, homes in Canton neighborhood of Baltimore](https://i.pcmag.com/imagery/reviews/04Ct0CSgSg3eI7mOLbjWuvQ-17.jpg)
ProRes offers better color sampling (10-bit 4:2:2) and holds up to edits better than H.264 or H.265 video. The Mavic 3 Pro Cine supports several levels of compression, so you can tune file sizes to match project requirements: ProRes 422, 422 HQ, and 422 LT are available. If you're savvy enough to know how to edit ProRes video, it's worth getting the Cine edition. But if the feature leaves you scratching your head, the regular Mavic 3 Pro or even the Classic are more appropriate choices.
An Extra Camera Makes a Major Difference
The original two-lens Mavic 3 wowed us with its main Hasselblad camera, but its secondary 7x zoom shooter was a letdown for creative work. The single-lens Mavic 3 Classic that followed thus became a sensible value for creators interested only in wide-angle coverage and it remains the best value in the series at $1,599. The three-lens Mavic 3 Pro, however, makes for a tempting upgrade because its midrange tele camera adds versatility for creative work. We wish DJI had put more storage onboard the non-Cine edition, but microSD cards are relatively inexpensive, so that's not too much of a downside.
![Front view of folded Mavic 3 Pro](https://i.pcmag.com/imagery/reviews/04Ct0CSgSg3eI7mOLbjWuvQ-9.jpg)
The real question for pilots mulling a Mavic 3 Pro is which version to get. If you're upgrading from the Mavic 3 and already have a stash of batteries, the basic model is a good choice, though newcomers might want to shell out for a Fly More bundle to get more flight time, the multi-charger, and a carrying case. Video pros who are schooled enough to cut ProRes footage should find the Cine edition worthwhile. It justifies its $4,799 price with superior video encoding, 1TB of onboard storage, and a bundled RC Pro remote.