In recent years, the drone market has expanded to include a myriad of budget-friendly options that cater to both hobbyists and content creators. Among these, DJI’s $199 Neo selfie drone has made a notable entry, promising an accessible way for users to capture aerial footage without breaking the bank. Yet, it faced stiff competition, notably from the $350 Hover X1, which boasted superior features that catered to modern social media content creation needs.
Initially, the Neo drone came with significant drawbacks, notably its inability to shoot vertical video—the format that dominates platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels. Additionally, its tracking capabilities left much to be desired, lagging behind the competition’s performance. Recognizing these limitations, DJI took significant steps to update the Neo, enhancing both its speed and functionality. With a recent firmware update, the drone has not only gained vertical video capability but has also dramatically improved its tracking speed, allowing it to keep pace with fast-moving subjects such as cyclists.
The latest updates have reportedly allowed the Neo to reach speeds of approximately 20 miles per hour (32 kph) in tracking mode, surpassing the manual flying speed even in Sport mode. This enhancement marks a substantial improvement from previous performance, wherein the drone struggled to keep up with speeds of 13 miles per hour (21 kph). Such capabilities open new avenues for capturing action shots and dynamic content, further enticing both casual users and influencers who seek high-quality, engaging footage.
While the introduction of vertical video is a significant advancement, it comes with caveats that users must navigate. The Neo is limited to 1080p resolution, lacking the clarity of 4K video offered by higher-end models. Nonetheless, it achieves a respectable 60 frames per second, allowing for smooth footage that synchronizes well with the fast-paced nature of social media. Furthermore, activating this feature requires users to ensure their DJI Fly app is updated, a task that is not always seamless, particularly for Android users due to restrictions surrounding app installations.
DJI’s enhancements to the Neo drone represent a concerted effort to address user feedback and market trends. While it still has its limitations—such as resolution and app accessibility—the improved tracking speed and new vertical video capabilities significantly bolster its appeal. The drone now stands as a competitive option in the vibrant world of budget aerial photography. As the demand for visually compelling content continues to rise, DJI’s Neo could very well carve its niche, provided it continues to evolve in response to the needs of its audience.