When it comes to powerful, portable drones, DJI Spark and Mavic Mini are both excellent options on the market. From intelligent functions to flight performance, check out our side-by-side analysis to find out which drone is the most suitable for you.
In 2017, DJI launched Spark, a mini drone packed with plenty of fun flight opportunities. Fast forward a couple of years, and the mini drone market has once again been redefined with the release of DJI Mavic Mini. Boasting an ultralight design, 2.7K Quad HD videos, and the new DJI Fly app, DJI Mavic Mini is an exceptional drone for everyday content creators. But the question remains, which drone is the most suitable for you?
| DJI Spark | DJI Mavic Mini | |
| Design | Foldable | Foldable |
| Weight | 300g | 249 g |
| Stabilization | 2-Axis Gimbal | 3-Axis Gimbal |
| Video | 1080 p | 2.7K/30fps at 40 Mbps |
| Camera | 1/2.3” CMOS, 12 MP | 1/2.3” CMOS, 12 MP |
| Max. Transmission | 2 km (FCC) | 4 km (FCC) |
| Max. Flight Time | 16 minutes | 30 minutes |
| App | DJI GO 4 app | DJI Fly app |
DJI Mavic Mini vs. Spark: Portability
Drone portability depends on the combination of weight and special design features. DJI Spark features a lightweight design at 300 g, which is a very respectable weight for a mini drone. DJI Mavic Mini weighs less than 250 grams and features foldable arms that allow it to be conveniently stored in a bag. When it comes to portability, DJI Mavic Mini takes the leading position.
DJI Mavic Mini vs. Spark: Image Quality
Both drones feature a 1/2.3-inch 12MP sensor, giving them excellent imaging capabilities for creating social media footage.
DJI Mavic Mini features a 3-axis motorized gimbal, which stabilizes footage across the yaw, pitch, and roll axis. DJI Spark has a 2-axis gimbal, which stabilizes footage across the pitch and roll axis.
In terms of video performance, DJI Mavic Mini shoots ultra-smooth 2.7 K Quad HD videos, letting you transform any moment into a work of art. DJI Spark is perfect for beginner users, offering 1080p video and 12MP stills that are perfect for selfies.
DJI Mavic Mini vs. Spark: Intelligent Functions
Despite being an entry-level camera drone, DJI Spark is jam-packed with intelligent features like ActiveTrack, TapFly, QuickShots, and Gesture mode. QuickShots let you make creative videos with a simple tap, TapFly grants you the ability to control DJI Spark by tapping your smartphone screen, and ActiveTrack cleverly follows your desired subject.
DJI Mavic Mini also features QuickShots like Dronie, Rocket, and more, giving you shots that look like they came from a Hollywood set. The Everyday FlyCam offers a simplified flight experience through the new DJI Fly app. With an incredibly simple user interface, creative pre-made templates, and editing tools, Mavic Mini is a perfect choice for everyday drone flyers.
DJI Mavic Mini vs. Spark: Flight Performance
When it comes to flight performance, DJI Mavic Mini packs plenty of power, with up to 30-minutes of flight time and a 4km HD transmission range*.
* 4 km for an FCC compliant model (MT1SS5) and 2.5 km for a CE compliant model (SRRC). Measurements were taken in unobstructed environments free of interference with the aircraft flying at a constant speed of 14 kph.
DJI Spark, on the other hand, offers a maximum flight time of 16-minutes and a 2km HD Wi-Fi video transmission*.
* Estimated flight time is based on flying in windless conditions at a constant speed of 20 kph. Actual flight times may vary depending on your environment.
DJI Mavic Mini vs. Spark: Flight Safety
With a GPS signal, both DJI Spark and Mavic Mini have a stable flight experience, and downward vision sensors ensure both aircraft can hover precisely.
In addition, DJI Spark also comes equipped with a 3D sensing system, which is able to detect obstacles from up to 5 meters away.
DJI Mavic Mini users can attach a 360° Propeller Guard to protect the aircraft from damage and protect themselves and others when flying.
DJI Mavic Mini or Spark?
As a selfie drone packed with fun features, DJI Spark is a perfect choice for beginner pilots. But it’s not all fun and games. 1080p video and a 2-axis gimbal make this a powerful, well-rounded mini drone.
For everyday drone pilots and aerial photographers, DJI Mavic Mini offers the perfect combination of power, portability, and ease of use. The Everyday FlyCam is lighter, smaller, and features a longer flight time than DJI Spark. Throw in 2.7K Quad HD video and a 3-axis gimbal and you have an incredibly powerful mini drone in your hands.
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