DJI has established itself as a top manufacturer of consumer drones. In recent years, they have also made major inroads into the exciting world of FPV (first person view) drones.
DJI now produces two high-quality FPV models – the DJI Avata and DJI FPV. But what exactly are the differences between these two drones? How do you choose the right one for your needs?
This in-depth guide examines all aspects of the Avata and FPV models to reveal how they compare for applications like racing, freestyle flying, and content creation. After reading, you’ll know which DJI FPV drone is the best fit for you.
Table of Contents
Introduction
First person view (FPV) drones put you in the pilot’s seat with a fully immersive flight experience. Speeding through the air at up to 80+ mph while seeing real-time drone footage in a headset creates an adrenaline rush like no other.
DJI has embraced the consumer interest in FPV flights. They now offer two stellar options accessible to hobbyists:
DJI Avata – A tiny, lightweight FPV drone focused on cinematic control and flight safety. Perfect for freestyle flying and shooting stabilized video footage.
DJI FPV – A high-performance racing quadcopter built for maximum speed and agility. Designed to satisfy thrill seeking FPV pilots.
While sharing an FPV design approach, these drones have very different strengths and features. This guide examines how they compare across critical specifications like speed, camera capabilities, flight modes, controllers, and much more.
Let’s dive in!
Key Specifications
Being in the same product family, the Avata and FPV share some core features. But key differences in areas like weight, prop guards, and sensors stand out:
| Spec | DJI Avata | DJI FPV |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 410g | 795g |
| Dimensions | 180 x 180 x 80 mm | 255 x 312 x 127 mm |
| Prop Guards? | Yes | No |
| Obstacle Sensors | Downward | Forward + Downward |
| Speed (max) | 27 m/s (60 mph) | 39 m/s (87 mph) |
| Run Time | Up to 18 mins | Up to 20 mins |
| Radio Range | 2 km (CE) | 6 km |
| Compatible Controllers | Motion controller, DJI RC-N1 | Motion controller, DJI RC-N1 |
The table reveals the FPV’s larger size, lack of prop guards, and superior maximum speed. The Avata offers built-in safety and a more portable frame. But both provide incredible FPV drone performance.
Design and Portability
The DJI Avata is the smaller and lighter of the two FPV models. Weighing around 410g with folded arms, it fits easily into a backpack or bag for transport. The FPV is a bulkier, heavier airframe weighing 795g – nearly twice as much.
Integrated prop guards set the Avata apart. These provide protection while flying close to objects and enhance safety. Prop guards come standard rather than as an add-on accessory. This allows confident flight indoors or in tight spaces.
The Avata’s rugged, protected frame, coupled with its nimble size, make it a great inspection drone candidate. It can squeeze into confined areas that would be inaccessible to larger quads.
While the FPV lacks built-in guards, its sturdy composite materials withstand high-speed crashes and impacts. For freestyle sessions in open areas, the FPV’s beefier unrestricted props offer an advantage.
Speed and Agility
When it comes to pure speed and performance, the DJI FPV dominates with a top speed of 87 mph – over 40% faster than the Avata’s 60 mph. The FPV’s power and less restricted props let it accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in an incredible 2 seconds!
The FPV also shows greater agility with unlimited manual mode allowing flipping, diving, and complex maneuvers at full throttle. This makes the FPV the clear choice for drone racing and enthusiasts who want no compromises.
That said, the Avata is no slouch. While geared more for safety, it still zips along at up to 60 mph – plenty fast for most users. The manual mode provides aerobatic capabilities, just within safer speed limits.
Camera and Video
A key aspect of FPV drones is capturing immersive footage during flights. Here the Avata shines with a superb camera system:
- Larger 1/1.7″ CMOS sensor (48MP stills)
- 155° FOV
- 4K/60fps or 1080p/100fps video
- horizon locking and RockSteady digital stabilization
The FPV isn’t far behind with quality 4K/60fps video capabilities off its 12MP 1/2.3” sensor and 150° FOV lens. But the Avata’s camera tech gives it an edge for users prioritizing image quality and stabilization in their videos.
Flight Modes
Both drones come with DJI’s core flight modes:
Normal (N) – Standard GPS stabilization hovers the drone in place safely. Limited max speeds.
Sport (S) – Moderate speeds and agility allowed while retaining some safety features.
Manual (M) – No limits for experienced pilots. Access to the drones’ full speed and maneuvering potential.
The FPV unlocks greater extremes in manual mode – essentially transforming into an unrestricted racing quad. But both models provide this spectrum of options accommodating beginners and experts alike.
Controller Choices
Pilots can opt for traditional RC controllers or go hands-free using the DJI Motion controller with either FPV drone:
DJI RC-N1 Controller – Provides manual control via familiar twin-stick operation. Unlocks the drones’ maximum capabilities.
Motion Controller – Allows steering the drone by hand movements sensed through the controller. Fun and intuitive but limits speed/agility available.
Having both options allows choosing your preferred control style for each flight. The Motion Controller also opens the door to easily capturing dynamic FPV footage using hand gestures.
Durability
Durability is always a concern with high performance FPV models. Thankfully both the Avata and FPV use quality components and construction to withstand punishing flights.
Carbon fiber motor arms, proprietary propping systems, and rigid frames allow them to walk away from crashes and minor mishaps relatively unscathed. The Avata’s prop guards provide extra protection from scrapes and bumps when flying in close quarters.
For major accidents, DJI’s reasonably priced coverage plans provide peace of mind against replacement costs. But both models hit a sweet spot of speed and resilience for new FPV pilots.
Wrapping Up
DJI has succeeded in making high speed FPV flight more accessible to the average consumer. Both the Avata and FPV models provide an awesome immersive experience once reserved for expert fliers.
The Avata prioritizes safety and cinematic potential with its integrated prop guards and stellar camera specs. The FPV focuses purely on unmatched racing performance and freestyle acrobatics.
At the end of the day, choosing between two fantastic quads comes down to your intended FPV use case. Their common DJI DNA guarantees you hours of intense FPV enjoyment regardless. Happy flying!
Frequently Asked Questions
How does flight time compare between the Avata and FPV?
The Avata provides up to 18 minutes of hovering while the FPV can last around 16 minutes thanks to its lighter weight and lower drag. Actual flight times will be lower cruising at speed or under acrobatic maneuvers.
What goggles work with each model?
The Avata works with DJI Goggles 2 and DJI FPV Goggles V2. The FPV is only compatible with the FPV Goggles V2. The Goggles 2 provide a better display and tracking.
Can a beginner fly these drones safely?
Both models offer Normal and Sport flight modes to restrict speed and mimic basic quadcopter controls for beginners learning. Manual mode unlocks full capabilities once skills improve.
Which drone is better for FPV racing?
The DJI FPV is purpose-built for FPV racing and domination. With a 40% higher top speed and limitless agility in Manual mode, it easily bests the Avata for competitive events.
Do I need any registration or licensing to fly?
You don’t need a license to fly recreationally, but these drones require basic registration with the FAA in the US or CAA in the UK for legal operation. Follow all local laws.
Key Takeaways
- The DJI FPV prioritizes all-out speed and agility for racing and freestyle flying
- The Avata offers greater portability, safety features, and video capabilities for cinematic FPV
- While the FPV is faster (87 mph vs 60 mph), the Avata’s prop guards allow confident flight in tight spaces
- Excellent cameras allow capturing stabilized 4K footage on both models
- Multiple flight modes cater to beginners and experts alike
- Optional Motion controller provides intuitive gesture-based piloting
Both drones deliver an amazing immersive FPV experience that feels like flying. Choose the model that best matches how you want to enjoy the thrill of First Person View!