IFA 2018, Europe's premier consumer electronics show, showcased groundbreaking drones tailored for photography enthusiasts and featuring voice or gesture controls. As seasoned drone experts, we break down the standout models from this event.
Industry leaders DJI and Yuneec dominated with major releases. DJI launched the Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 2 Zoom, enhancing their acclaimed series with superior cameras for pros. Yuneec delivered its signature packed-with-features approach at an accessible price.
The DJI Mavic 2 Pro and Mavic 2 Zoom share identical designs, sizes, foldable portability, accessories, up to 30 minutes of flight time, and a top speed of 72 km/h—differing mainly in their cameras, with the Pro's rectangular unit and the Zoom's circular one.
Both are now available for purchase or pre-order.
The Mavic 2 Pro packs the Hasselblad L1D-20c camera with a 1-inch CMOS sensor and 20-megapixel resolution. Its adjustable aperture (f/2.8 to f/11) enables creative depth control for pro drone photographers, while 10-bit HDR video captures over a billion colors.
The DJI Mavic 2 Pro retails for $1,449 in the US.
DJI Mavic 2 PRO Drone Quadcopter with Hasselblad HDR Camera Video UAV with Adjustable Aperture 20MP 1" CMOS Sensor (US Version) DJI Mavic 2 PRO Drone Quadcopter with Hasselblad HDR Camera with Adjustable Aperture Video UAV 20MP 1" CMOS Sensor (US Version) Buy Now On Amazon $1,499.00
The Mavic 2 Zoom excels with 2x optical zoom (24-48mm) on its 12MP 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, perfect for casual creators. Add 2x digital zoom for versatility, though with some artifacts, enabling dynamic shots like DJI's backward-flying demo. It also records 4K video.
The DJI Mavic 2 Zoom costs $1,249 in the US.
DJI Mavic 2 Zoom Drone Quadcopter with 24-48mm Optical Zoom Camera Video UAV 12MP 1/2.3" CMOS Sensor (US Version) DJI Mavic 2 Zoom Drone Quadcopter with 24-48mm Optical Zoom Camera Video UAV 12MP 1/2.3" CMOS Sensor (US Version) Buy Now On Amazon $1,159.96
Voice and gesture controls bring intuitive interaction to drones. Wave your hand or say a command to snap photos with the Yuneec Mantis Q hovering nearby—elevating drone usability for creative captures.
While not as advanced as Siri, it recognizes basics like "take a picture" or "take a selfie" (voice distance undisclosed). Face detection works up to 13 feet, triggering on smiles or waves.
Its smartphone-connected controller is straightforward, with joysticks and a "Come Home" button.
At $500, the Mantis Q offers unmatched value: 4K video, 70 km/h top speed, and 33 minutes of flight time—rivaling pricier competitors.
Pre-order or buy the Yuneec Mantis Q for $500 from their online store.
The Mavic 2 Pro and Zoom suit experienced pilots seeking upgrades. For newcomers craving pro features affordably, the Yuneec Mantis Q shines.
We'll hands-on test all three soon, with special focus on the beginner-friendly Mantis Q. For an easy entry, try the $99 DJI Tello: the cutest mini-drone with 720p camera and 10-minute flights. Read more.
