First person view (FPV) drone flying has exploded in popularity over the last few years. The feeling of immersion and exhilaration that comes with strapping on a pair of FPV goggles and seeing the world from behind the controls of a nimble racing quad is unmatched in the drone world. More and more people are being drawn to experience the thrill of FPV flight.
DJI has been a leader in making FPV drones more accessible to the masses. In 2021 they released the DJI FPV drone combo, bundling their first FPV quad with the DJI FPV Goggles V2 and DJI FPV Remote Controller 2.
This ready-to-fly package opened the door for many people to try FPV for the first time without needing to build their own drone or piece together components.
In April 2022, DJI built on the momentum of their first FPV release by announcing the DJI Avata. This new drone retained much of what made the original DJI FPV drone so beginner-friendly, but packed in some key improvements to size, weight, camera quality, and overall flight experience.
As passionate FPV pilots ourselves, we’ve been eagerly flying the Avata over the past 6 months to put it through its paces and see how it stacks up for newcomers and veterans alike.
Read on for our in-depth long-term review of the DJI Avata high performance FPV drone system after half a year of use!
Table Of Contents
Overview: DJI Avata FPV Drone
The DJI Avata arrives ready to fly right out of the box. The basic package includes the Avata drone itself along with one battery, extra propellers, and all necessary tools and wires.
You’ll need to supply your own FPV goggles and radio controller. More complete kit options are also available bundled with the DJI FPV Goggles V2, DJI Goggles 2, and DJI Motion Controller.
So what exactly sets the Avata apart from DJI’s earlier FPV release? Here are some of the headline differences and upgrades:
- Compact size: At just 410 grams, the DJI Avata comes in a full 500g lighter than the DJI FPV drone. And with dimensions of 180x180x80mm, it has a much smaller footprint despite lacking foldable arms. This compact, grab-and-go design makes it extremely portable.
- Safer for new pilots: Encasing propellers in prop guards and enhancing overall build resilience with redesigned arms and cage makes the Avata a little more beginner proof. These safety features give new FPV pilots more confidence to push their limits without fear of causing catastrophic mid-air breakages.
- Upgraded camera and stabilization: The DJI Avata packs in a 1/1.7” CMOS sensor capable of shooting 4K/60fps video and 48 megapixel photos. Footage quality is better than past standalone FPV cameras thanks to a wider ISO range and better low light performance. Plus built-in RockSteady stabilization in up to 4K/30fps helps smooth out videos without the need for post-processing.
- Longer flight times: While no FPV drone offers the multi-mile range of photography rigs, a maximum flight time of 18 minutes on a single battery charge keeps the Avata in the air considerably longer than typical 5 inch racers. Expect 10-15 minute flights when flying actively.
- Intuitive motion controller option: The optional DJI Motion Controller provides a simplified method of flying the Avata. Unique wrist movements replace traditional radio controls, opening the experience to complete beginners by removing the steep learning curve.
With a more resilient design tailored for newcomers plus enhanced camera specs and intelligence, it’s clear that DJI built the Avata from the ground up for the FPV curious. This approach pays dividends for those looking to dip a toe in the world of first person flight. At the same time, performance remains on par with the needs of seasoned pilots. It’s an impressive balancing act.
After extensive testing, the Avata proves itself an extremely capable rig ready to grow with pilots as they improve their skills. It definitely stands up as DJI’s premium FPV offering.
Let’s get into the details…
DJI Avata Review: Flight Performance
Flying any drone FPV takes some adjustment from the typical photography drone perspective. But DJI squeezes unbelievable performance into the beginner-friendly Avata package. Cutting weight down to just 410g gives it a nimbleness more akin to a custom built racer than a DJ drone with flight controller stabilization and intelligence baked in.
Agility and Speed
In manual mode with stabilization disabled, this featherweight flier is a rocket ship capable of hitting 97kph according to DJI.
Don’t expect to reach those speeds right off the bat, but it’ll definitely outpace a stock DJI FPV model once you become accustomed to the controls. Unlike full-on racing quads, the Avata doesn’t have the largest propellers which caps its ultimate speed potential.
But there’s ample juice for experienced pilots seeking a thrill ride while still enjoying DJI’s reliability and safety features absent in the world of hardcore FPV builds.
Cranking the speed down to Normal or Sport mode is advised for beginners. Even with stabilization helping keep the horizon level, velocity can initially be overwhelming behind the FPV goggles. Smart mode limiting and gradual acceleration ramp up entry level accessibility without totally neutering performance capabilities for veterans. But toggling back into manual mode removes all restrictions whenever you want to open it up. Having both options baked into one drone makes the Avata one of the most adaptable FPV platforms available from box goggles to full sending.
Indoor Flying
Where the DJI Avata really shines is indoors. Like a mini drone on steroids, it tears through houses, warehouses, and any other interior space with reckless abandon. Obstacle sensing prevents unfortunate collisions while prop guards bounce off walls and door frames during the inevitable crashes. This enables running intricate lines and pulling cinematic dives in tight spaces most drones couldn’t even consider. Having both power and protection condenses into an unbelievable indoor package.
While the larger DJI FPV drone technically can be navigated indoors too, its size and lack of protection severely limits complex maneuvers in smaller spots. The Avata exhibits no such drawbacks. In fact, DJI themselves used Avatas in lieu of racing drones for their wild 2022 Shenzhen drone show, demonstrating supreme confidence even their test pilots harbor for the indomitable indoor abilities. Expect the inspiration for unique FPV content creation to come fast and furious with the Avata under the sticks.
Wind Resistance
Wind can be the bane of UAV pilots, even with photography drones touting fancy gimbal stabilization. Lightweight FPV quads get hit even harder. But DJI integrated a little body bulk into the Avata to make it less of a sail in the breeze compared to your typical 5 inch prop racer. Forward motion penetration seems decent enough in moderate gusts based on our experience. Just don’t expect the unflappable stability of a Mavic 2 or Phantom.
You’ll still need to fight the elements without GPS positioning hold. Manual throttle and pitch management help drive through winds reasonably well. Ultimately, abilities here provide a good blend of mass to offset lesser resistance while avoiding the massiveness that weighs down DJI’s earlier FPV attempt. It rides a nice sweet spot useful for many real world scenarios.
Just recognize limitations in extreme conditions that may overpower its relative featherweight. Flying low to the ground or in sheltered areas eases turbulence battles if attempting flights in heavy gusts. Honestly though, we found the DJI Avata capable of handling moderately breezy days better than we anticipated.
Range and Signal Strength
On a single battery the DJI Avata can hit around 10 minutes of flight time when flying actively. More careful throttle management stretches closer to the advertised 15 minutes. It’s not unusual for tiny 2-3 inch micro quads to have flight times under 5 minutes, so this kind of airtime seems generous by FPV standards. Just budget for extra batteries anyways as it goes by quicker than you think once airborne, especially for newcomers unfamiliar with conserving momentum.
More importantly, the OccuSync 3.0 connection between aircraft and controller allows flying well beyond visual line of sight without concern. DJI claims a maximum of 12km when not obscured by objects or competing signals. Realistically, active pilots stay much closer to maintain situational awareness. But noticeable latency doesn’t seem to crop up within a kilometer or so in our experience. Simply put, the dependable control link gives peace of mind to dance the Avata anywhere within reasonably close proximity.
Camera and Image Quality
Arguably the most notable improvements packed into the DJI Avata manifest through camera upgrades. After all, creative photography and videography provide motivation for most drone enthusiasts getting into FPV. DJI made the smart move of integrating a camera with specifications and performance similar to their Action 2 sports camera into a miniaturized drone chassis.
Camera Specs
The front mounted camera shoots up to 4K resolution at 60fps or 48 megapixel still photos using a wide angle 1/1.7” CMOS sensor. While tiny compared to something like the Hasselblad medium format Rig on the Mavic 3, it takes perfectly acceptable images and video without needing an external action cam. Having everything integrated really streamlines the digital capture process.
If ultimate image quality takes priority over convenience, nothing stops slapping a GoPro 10 or Insta360 camera onto the optional mount atop the quad. But most casual users get plenty more than good enough straight out of the box. DJI even borrowed RockSteady digital stabilization from their Action line to deliver stable footage when shooting only 1080p resolution. Overall an extremely versatile imaging package ready for anything comes neatly built into this petite profile.
Picture Quality
So what do videos and photos actually look like coming off the DJI Avata? In a word: spectacular! The wide angle fisheye look captures that immersive FPV feeling beautifully. Distortion gets handled better than expected too thanks to the RockSteady stabilization algorithms. This helps straighten curved horizon lines and avoid the nauseating warping exhibited by older digital FPV footage. The end result is an extremely crisp, clean image perfect for capturing unique perspectives of urban landscapes or scenic vistas.
Having 4K60 recording gives plenty of flexibility for post production cropping and effects too. Fine details manage to shine through despite the heavy compression required to shoot higher frame rates. Overall the color science and exposure match what we’ve come to expect from DJI drones and action cameras. Dynamic range could be better for high contrast scenes. But only pickiest videographers would find much to complain about with the exceptional quality produced under most conditions.
Low light scenarios or dark interiors do tax the tiny sensor more noticeably. Videos get grainy quickly once the available lighting dims thanks to physics limitations. But like any action cam style shooter, the target environment revolves more around bright exteriors and daytime anyways. This versatile imaging module gives outstanding results for what most FPV pilots will demand from it.
Digitally Stabilized Footage
A major innovation DJI introduced alongside the stellar image quality is onboard digital stabilization in up to 4K30fps. Having RockSteady baked into the camera and flight controller means silky smooth videos get recorded directly to the Micro SD card. No need to shoot stabilized footage in lower resolutions then scale up. No need to process footage through editing software like ReelSteady post production. What you see behind the goggles gets captured straight to reuseable footage (albeit with slightly zoomed field of view from cropping).
Buying additional software or fussing through stabilization workflows in editing becomes totally optional versus obligatory. Nothing stops diehard smoothening fanatics from taking standard footage and running it through ReelSteady GO or their choice of editor. But having basic stabilization covered in camera makes polished videos effortlessly achievable for all skill levels. Overall an incredibly empowering advancement for the world of FPV content creators.
DJI FPV Remote Controller 2
Serious FPV pilots demand responsive controls enabling exacting maneuverability over their aircraft. The DJI FPV Remote Controller 2 pairs perfectly with the Avata to deliver tight command authority honed after years of user feedback. Veterans of the hobby should feel immediately at home with the ergonomics, layout, and configurability of this radio. Beginners meanwhile gain a simplified springboard suitable to grow into as techniques advance.
Transmitter Design
DJI carried over the core design ethos of their original remote controller to the second iteration FPV remote. Bulbous grips tag each outer edge housing spring loaded control sticks, 4 toggle switches, and 2 shoulder buttons. The centered area hosts plenty of additional configuration and mode controls. Everything gets situated ergonomically for comfortable extended transmitting sessions.
Sticks swap between twist and locked modes to cater towards pinching styles or thumbs up. Each stick head also unscrews allowing tension adjustment to suit personal preferences. And switches feature multi-stage travel instead of simple on-off allowing granularity like progressive rates. Extremely customizable with all necessary controls on hand makes this an impressive rig any pilot can tweak for their specific needs after some practice.
Intelligent Flight Modes
What sets the FPV Remote Controller 2 apart is the way DJI’s flight controller intelligence gets integrated across the various flight modes. Switching into Normal or Sport mode enables obstacle sensing and automatic stabilization to some degree without fully taking away manual control. This gives newer pilots a confidence boost while learning ropes. Manual mode then unlocks unlimited freedom by handing complete authority to the pilot. Even here a simple toggle engages neutral self-leveling for when situations get out of hand.
Advanced assistive features unique to DJI drones provide a nice progressive learning journey up through the modes. Cinematic Mode for instance sets up smooth video capturing by limiting extreme movements and enforcing offsets for keeping subjects framed. Plus handy Return to Home functionality andAltitude Lockhelps take workload off pilots for safer, less stressful flights. Overall everything needed comes built right into a thoughtfully designed package ready for action.
DJI Goggles Options
DJI offers two main FPV goggle options for use with the Avata drone:
DJI FPV Goggles V2
The DJI FPV Goggles V2 stand as DJI’s original first-party FPV goggle release. Large high definition screens inside provide a crisp immersive digital view. Integrated OcuSync 2.0 connectivity gives a reliable low latency connection to DJI drones without delay. The goggles track head movements for looking around the environment with a simple turn of the neck. Overall an extremely capable FPV viewer packed with all essential features.
Keep in mind the FPV Goggles V2 lean on the bulkier, heavier side. Consider the streamlined DJI Goggles 2 for travel friendly weight savings at the cost of some display downgrades. But those wanting maximum viewing clarity for an immersive experience while stationary may prefer the V2 edition. It currently sells bundled with the Avata drone or available separately for use with existing DJI FPV ecosystem gear.
DJI Goggles 2
The DJI Goggles 2 provide the next evolution of DJI’s proprietary digital FPV headset. NOTICEABLY lighter and more compact than the original version, these slimmed down specs make it incredibly easy to pack along anywhere. Reduced weight wearing on the face proves less fatiguing over longer sessions too. They retain the critical features of head tracking and low latency wireless connectivity.
Downsides of the shrink down include smaller available screens and lower effective pixel density. The displays definitely don’t match clarity or immersion of the V2. Expect some video degradation especially noticeable by veteran pilots. But the Goggles 2 still deliver an excellent mobile FPV viewing experience suitable for most, just with comfort tradeoffs. Great for travel friendly portability where the V2 pair may get burdensome.
DJI Motion Controller
The DJI Motion Controller introduces an entirely unique method of flying the Avata drone — with your hands! This wrist-worn gadget contains accelerometers and gyroscopes that detect nuanced movements. Tilting and twisting in desired flight directions translates those gestures into corresponding aircraft movements. Buttons handle adjusting altitude and activation. Extremely intuitive controls lower the bar for complete beginners looking to pilot the Avata.
Veteran hobbyists likely won’t have much use for the Motion Controller though. Precision maneuvering depends on gracefulness unlikely with hand gestures over a dedicated remote. Expect to outgrow capabilities here quickly once basic flight fundamentals get established. But for raw novices, it makes first flights exponentially more approachable by not needing to coordinate elaborate remote stick and toggle combinations. Using simple wrist flicks to direct basic movement through FPV goggles builds invaluable muscle memory with less overwhelming complexity. It’s an ingenious accessory for kickstarting Avata flights!
DJI Avata vs DJI FPV Drone
DJI now offers two outstanding choices for plug-and-play high performance FPV drones thanks to the Avata. This newer release packs in some incremental enhancements that make it generally superior in most aspects. But is it worth ditching an earlier DJI FPV purchase and upgrading? Let’s break down some key considerations.
Portability
The Avata sees massive weight and size reductions over the previous generation DJI FPV drone. These gains make a world of difference concerning portability and transport. Being able to stash the Avata easily into any camera bag or backpack significantly improves odds of having your FPV drone available whenever adventure may strike. Don’t underestimate the importance of convenient mobility for capturing spur of the moment footage opportunities.
Safety
Obstacle detection got left off DJI’s inaugural FPV release and still remains absent on the Avata too. But plastic prop guards introduced here provide critical protection against damage both to property and the drone itself. This gives essential peace of mind when pushing hard or navigating new environments. Beginners need assurance they can make mistakes without costly consequences which the Avata capably delivers.
Camera Quality
Early adopters dealt with recording video through awkward action camera tethering contraptions on the first DJI FPV drone. Integrating an improved camera and gimbal straight into the chassis makes capturing Avata footage considerably more refined and user friendly. Having stabilized 4K60 shooting and reasonable low light performance over the base model’s limitations should satisfy most pilots’ video demands with less rigging.
Overall Experience
DJI certainly leads the accessible high performance FPV drone space right now. Both aircraft options deliver loads of functionality trying to bridge the gap between dedicated racers and cinematic flyers. For most looking to dip toes into first person flight, the Avata makes for a better overall package thanks to subsequent revision refinements. Spend the extra cash up front to start off with the latest offering then grow into veterans from there!
Should You Buy The DJI Avata FPV Drone?
After putting this stunning FPV platform through its paces over 6 months of heavy use, a resounding YES emerges to buying the DJI Avata. It melds together the perfect blend of performance, features, reliability that both new and experienced pilots will come to love. There’s very little not to like about this drone. It definitely stands tall as DJI’s premier FPV model pilots should consider before anything else.
Beginners Rejoice
Newcomers just dipping their toes into first person flight should feel extremely comfortable progressing up the learning curve with the Avata. All the safety and confidence inspiring aspects DJI packs into their drones sees full integration here. Prop guards, a resilient cage, plus multiple intelligent flight modes with stabilization and simplified controls via the optional motion controller make rookie mistakes less consequential. It really couldn’t be any easier to get started and slowly improve.
Having high quality FPV goggle and controller options available from DJI right in the box makes getting set up fast and frustration-free too. No need to research miscellaneous brands and components to piece together. Just charge everything up and the easy journey to soaring through the skies in an immersive perspective begins immediately. And when skills eventually outgrow beginner capabilities, manual mode and advanced controls stand ready to unleash full performance potential down the road.
Veterans Welcome
Just because DJI built the Avata to welcome newcomers doesn’t mean they forgot about appealing to existing FPV enthusiasts. Beneath the durable protective shell lies an unfathomably nimble airframe just begging for exploitation. Light weight construction strips away any inertia holding back maneuvers. Manual mode hands complete control to pilots ready to push limits. High speed mode unlocks an extra burst of velocity for outracing factory builds. This perfectly overpowered platform caters towards both ends of the skill spectrum simultaneously.
And conveniently getting to tap into the DJI ecosystem could sway even diehard open source devotees. The reliability and quality DJI drones deliver sees full implementation here. Special sauce features like obstacle avoidance and cinematic shooting modes add functionality beyond basic racing and freestyle. For anyone not quite ready to wrench away on finicky custom builds, the Avata delivers a polished experience resolving common pain points. It’s an extremely compelling alternative for veterans once accustomed to cobbling together their own equipment and gaining intimate understandings of quirky FPV components.
In summary, pretty much all type of FPV pilots can fall in love with the DJI Avata. Open up the skills journey to newcomers unlike anything before while still rewarding established aviators with high performance potential. No matter what your experience level, this stupendous drone undoubtedly deserves a spot at the top of shopping lists.
So don’t hesitate pulling the trigger if remotely curious about first person flight! The Avata sells itself after just a few piloting sessions.
