DJI has released the Air 3S, a new dual-camera drone designed to meet the needs of travel photographers and content creators. The Air 3S features a 1-inch CMOS primary camera and a 70mm medium tele camera, offering greater flexibility for capturing landscapes, architecture, and portraits.
Both cameras support HDR video and DJI’s new Free panorama mode for seamless panoramic shots. Additionally, the Air 3S introduces nightscape omnidirectional obstacle sensing, improving nighttime flight safety.
Key Specifications
- Primary Camera: 50 MP 1-inch CMOS sensor, 24mm lens, supports 4K/60 fps HDR and 4K/120 fps video
- Secondary Camera: 48 MP 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor, 70mm medium tele, 3x optical zoom
- Dynamic Range: Up to 14 stops on both cameras
- Color Modes: 10-bit color with H.265 encoding, supports D-Log M and HLG
- Maximum ISO:
- 12,800 in standard mode
- 3,200 in D-Log M and HLG modes
- Flight Time: Up to 45 minutes
- Video Transmission: 10-bit O4 video transmission at 1080p/60 fps, up to 20 km range
- Storage: 42 GB internal storage
- Obstacle Avoidance: Nightscape omnidirectional sensing with LiDAR, infrared sensors, and vision sensors
- Weight: 724 grams
- Controller Compatibility: DJI RC-N3 and DJI RC 2
- Pricing:
- $1,099 for DJI Air 3S with RC-N3
- $1,399 for Fly More Combo with RC-N3
- $1,599 for Fly More Combo with RC 2
Advanced Imaging and Video Capabilities
The Air 3S builds on the capabilities of the DJI Air 3, now featuring 10-bit color and higher ISO ranges, enabling it to perform better in low-light scenarios such as urban nightscapes. With a 1-inch CMOS sensor on the primary camera, users can shoot detailed 4K video at up to 120 fps. The secondary 70mm telephoto camera offers 3x optical zoom, ideal for portraits and compressed depth-of-field shots. Both cameras ensure visually consistent footage, simplifying post-production workflows.
The drone supports Free panorama mode, allowing photographers to create panoramic images by stitching multiple photos together. The wide angle lens broadens the field of vision, while the tele camera minimizes distortion for high-quality, expansive shots.
Improved Safety for Night Flying
One standout feature of the Air 3S is its nightscape omnidirectional obstacle sensing system, which uses LiDAR, infrared sensors, and six vision sensors to detect and avoid obstacles during flight. This capability ensures safer operation, particularly during night photography sessions. Additionally, Smart RTH (Return-to-Home) uses real-time positioning to memorize flight paths, allowing the drone to return even without satellite signals.
ActiveTrack 360° and New Subject Focusing
ActiveTrack 360° keeps the subject in the frame by dynamically planning the drone’s flight path. This feature ensures smooth tracking even if parts of the subject’s body are temporarily obscured. The new Subject Focusing feature maintains sharp focus during manual flights or when the subject moves off-center, enabling pilots to focus on camera movement and shot composition.
Additional Features
- QuickTransfer: Transfer files to smartphones or computers without powering on the drone
- Charging Hub: Supports power accumulation and fast PD charging
- Data Protection: Local Data Mode ensures no internet connection for added security
Pricing and Availability
The DJI Air 3S is available for order starting today exclusively from the DJI store, with shipments beginning immediately. It comes in three configurations:
- Standard Package: $1,099 (includes RC-N3 remote controller)
- Fly More Combo (RC-N3): $1,399 (includes additional batteries, ND filters, and charging hub)
- Fly More Combo (RC 2): $1,599 (features RC 2 controller with built-in 5.5-inch screen)
DJI Care Refresh protection plans are also available, covering accidental damage, including water and collision incidents. Availability at other retailers will be announced soon.
The DJI Air 3S offers a versatile and capable solution for travel photographers, combining advanced imaging technology with improved safety features for seamless operation day or night. With dual cameras and 45 minutes of flight time, the Air 3S aims to meet the demands of both hobbyists and professionals.
