Is it worth buying the DJI Phantom 4 Advanced or should you invest in the Pro model instead? You are probably wondering what are the main differences between these two DJI quadcopters.
I’ve summarized the five main differences here quickly for you – it’s up to you which features your drone should have when it arrives. But one thing is certain: ambitious filmmakers should like both models, both equipped with a 1-inch sensor.
Let’s try to find out together where DJI was able to save money on the advanced version.
Difference 1 – Camera sensors
While the more expensive DJI Phantom 4 Pro offers front and rear obstacle avoidance cameras, the DJI Phantom 4 Advanced is only protected on the front. The cameras have a range of almost 30m, so the system is very useful, especially if you are a beginner or need to take some risks on a fairly technical rush.
So there is a minor difference that will surely benefit the Advanced version in terms of battery savings.
Difference 2 – Frequencies
Pilots who choose the more affordable Advanced version have an obvious disadvantage here: 5.8 Ghz is not available! The 5.8 Ghz frequency is for particular in areas with a lot of interference, where your signal is likely to be noisy (the range is still less than at 2.4 Ghz according to my tests with the Phantom 4 Pro) . In the best case, this leads to poor image transmission. But in the worst case, it could also lead to the interrupted connection to the remote control and trigger failsafe.
If this is the case, the DJI Phantom 4 Pro will automatically switch to the least used frequency of use, i.e. 5.8 GHz. The DJI Phantom 4 Advanced does not offer such an option since it does not work only in the frequency of the most used the 2.4 GHz.
This is to be put into perspective here and a test of the Advanced version will be necessary because the quality of the signal is, in my opinion, the only Achilles heel of the Phantom 4 Pro !
Difference 3 – Infrared sensors
Here we come back to safety and flight time. While the DJI Phantom 4 Pro offers infrared sensors on the sides with a range of almost 5m. You won’t get this security measure available on the DJI Phantom 4 Advanced.
So we can assume that the flight time is a bit longer, but that’s not really measurable since the infrared sensors don’t require as much power as the camera-based obstacle avoidance system.
So here DJI Phantom 4 Pro is the winner…2:1
Difference 4 – Weight
Ready to fly the DJI Phantom 4 Pro has a weight of 1388g, while the DJI Phantom 4 Advanced weighs “only” 1368g. This difference is really minor since 20g less will not influence flight time.
So we could give 1 point each and the result is 3-2 until now
Difference 5 – Price
Of course, the DJI Phantom 4 Advanced will be available at a more affordable price than the Pro version. As for the fact that the two prices can vary. It is best to compare prices at the best drone dealers.
More experienced pilots should instead consider buying the DJI Phantom 4 Pro. While it’s more expensive, because it offers additional camera sensors on the back and infrared on the sides. These sensors provide additional security. The 5.8 GHz frequency is a useful feature if you are flying in places with quite a bit of interference.
My Verdict
Really minor differences here in my opinion. Keep in mind that both of these models are primarily aimed at ambitious, semi-professional videographers.
If you are a beginner and are ambitious and stubborn or with a well-filled wallet, the Advanced version should appeal to you and will give you access to the best on-board camera on the civilian market.
I do not recommend them if you are new to any of these drones
