Drone comparisons

Weighing two drones against each other? These side-by-side comparisons cover specs, real strengths and the certificate each one needs.

• DJI Avata 2 vs DJI Neo: FPV or selfie, and the licence difference

  The Avata 2 is a 377 g FPV drone (C1, A1/A3 required); the Neo is a ~135 g flying selfie camera (C0, no exam). Two different tools — and the key buyer difference is the licence.

• DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Air 3S: which to buy and the licence difference

  The Mini 5 Pro is 249.9 g (C0, no A1/A3 exam); the Air 3S is 724 g (C1, A1/A3 required). An honest comparison and the key buyer difference — the licence.

• HoverAir X1 vs DJI Neo: which selfie drone to buy and do you need a licence

  Both are sub-250 g flying selfie cameras with no A1/A3 exam. The HoverAir X1 (~125 g, no EU class mark) and the Neo (~135 g, C0) — an honest comparison and the key buyer point: registration is still mandatory.

• DJI Mavic 4 Pro vs Air 3S: which to buy and the licence difference

  The Mavic 4 Pro is C2 (A1/A3, plus A2 to fly closer to people); the Air 3S is C1 (A1/A3 only). An honest comparison and the key buyer difference — certification.