DJI is famous in aerial cinematography. After the DJI Neo 2 was introduced, it captured all attention. They all want to seek a clear understanding of the distinctions between the DJI Neo vs DJI Neo 2. After comparing them, I found that both of them offer commendable capabilities for documenting your experiences.
Here, I intend to deliver an impartial overview of their respective specifications to help you choose the most suitable one for your needs.
Table of Contents
DJI Neo vs DJI Neo 2 Weight and Size
Both DJI drones are portable. Their weight is under the 250g weight class, which is often restricted by regulations. Both models are incredibly small and include full-coverage propeller guards.
The original Neo has a takeoff weight of 135g. With such a light build and compact size (130 × 157 × 48.5mm), you will barely notice it in your backpack. On the other hand, the newer Neo 2 is slightly heavier than Neo, coming in at 151 grams without the optional Digital Transceiver and 160 grams with it. And the dimension is bigger than the Neo. Neo 2 size is 147 × 171 × 41 millimeters.
That is because Neo 2 features a more advanced internal design, which accounts for the increase in weight and a slight change in its overall shape.
DJI Neo vs DJI Neo 2 Camera and Video
The camera system sees substantial upgrades in the Neo 2.
The image sensors’ size of them are 1/2-inch. However, a wider aperture on the Neo 2 sensor size. The Aperture of Neo is f/2.8, while Neo 2 sensor size is f/2.2. The wider the aperture, the better. Because a wider aperture improves low-light footage quality.
For video, the Gimbal stabilization is important. They are both excellent at keeping stabilization. The Neo uses a Single-axis mechanical gimbal (Tilt only). It relies more heavily on Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) for smooth footage. The Neo 2 features a 2-axis mechanical gimbal (Tilt, Roll). The addition of the mechanical Roll axis on the Neo 2 vastly improves footage stability, especially during dynamic maneuvers. It offers a more cinematic result.
In Video Capabilities, the Neo supports 4K (16:9) at 30fps (with EIS On). The Neo 2 supports 4K (16:9) at up to 100fps, which is ideal for slow-motion video. Furthermore, the Neo 2 introduces a dedicated Vertical Shooting mode (up to 60fps). The Max Video Bitrate increases slightly from 75Mbps (Neo) to 80Mbps (Neo 2).
DJI Neo vs DJI Neo 2 Speed
The Neo can achieve a higher absolute top speed of 16 m/s in Manual Mode. While it requires an FPV controller for access. On the other hand, the Neo 2 is faster in the more commonly used Normal and Sport modes.
The Neo 2 speed can go up to 12 m/s in Sport Mode, while the Neo’s 8 m/s in Sport Mode. This means that while the Neo offers a slightly higher raw maximum speed for users, the Neo 2 speed provides greater automated speed.
DJI Neo vs DJI Neo 2 Noise
There is someone review that the noise of Neo is a little bit loud. Neo 2 is not available in the provided specifications. Thanks to improved motors and propeller design, the new model produces a lower-pitched sound. In my opinion, an RC drone to keep quiet is impossible, as they flying power on the run of propeller.
DJI Neo vs DJI Neo 2 Transmission Range and Controller
The Neo’s standard transmission is via Wi-Fi. Neo’s effective operating range is 50m. The Neo 2 supports two options that are Bluetooth and Wi-Fi (500 m).
Tips: WiFi Effective Operating Range means the maximum distance at which the drone can be reliably controlled and transmit live video feed when it is connected directly to a smartphone or tablet using a standard WiFi signal, which is generally shorter and more susceptible to environmental interference. Thus, to control with a controller is better.
For the controller, both models support various controller options. And the como of them are including DJI RC-N3. DJI RC-N3 remote controller offers several key benefits for both the NEO and NEO 2:
The controller provides a respectable operating time of up to 3.5 hours without charging a connected mobile device, ensuring sufficient power for multiple flights.
Utilizing the proprietary O4 Video Transmission System, the controller achieves a maximum transmission distance of up to 10 km (under FCC standards). It offers a significant improvement in control range and signal reliability compared to basic WiFi.
High-Quality Live View: It supports a live video feed quality of up to 1080p/60fps. It ensures a clear and smooth view of the footage during flight.
Tri-Band Support: It operates across three frequency bands (2.4 GHz, 5.1 GHz, and 5.8 GHz). Thus, it enhances signal stability and minimizes interference in various environments.
DJI Neo vs DJI Neo 2 Safety and Intelligent Flight
The Neo relies on a basic Downward Visual Positioning system for Sensing Type. The Neo 2 upgrades significantly to an Omnidirectional monocular vision system, paired with a downward infrared sensing system and forward-facing LiDAR. This upgrade provides much more comprehensive obstacle avoidance (Forward, Backward, Lateral, Upward, Downward). Thus, the Neo 2 is more suitable for beginners.
For positioning, the Neo relies primarily on vision. The Neo 2 adds Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) support (GPS + Galileo + BeiDou), enhancing hovering accuracy and stability, especially in outdoor environments. Additionally, the Neo 2 includes 49GB of Internal Storage. It provides a practical capacity for onboard video recording.
DJI Neo vs DJI Neo 2 Specs
| Specification | DJI Neo | DJI Neo 2 | Upgrade / Difference |
| Takeoff Weight | Approx. 135 g | Approx. 151 g (w/o O4 module) / 160 g (with O4 module) | Both remain below 250 g |
| Max Descent Speed | 2 m/s (Normal Mode) | 2 m/s (Normal Mode) | Mostly similar |
| Max Takeoff Altitude | 2000 m | 2000 m | Same |
| Max Flying Time | Approx. 18 mins (approx. 17 mins with prop guard) | Approx. 19 mins | Slightly increased endurance |
| Max Hovering Time | Approx. 18 mins (approx. 17 mins with prop guard) | Approx. 19 mins | Slightly increased endurance |
| Max Flying Distance | 7 KM | 7 KM | Same |
| Max Wind Speed Resistance | 8 m/s (Level 4) | 10 m/s (Level 5) | Improved wind resistance |
| Image Sensor Size | 1/2-inch CMOS | 1/2-inch CMOS | Similar size |
| Shutter Speed | Video: 1/8000–1/30 s / Photo: 1/8000–1/10 s | Similar (typically 1/8000–1/30 s or faster) | Mostly similar |
| Video Resolution | 4K@30fps | 4K@60fps (supports 10-bit D-Log M) | Double the frame rate, smoother video, better for color grading |
| EIS Stabilization | Supports RockSteady and HorizonBalancing | Supports RockSteady and HorizonBalancing | Both support Electronic Image Stabilization |
| Stabilization | Single-axis Mechanical Gimbal (Tilt) + EIS | Dual-axis Mechanical Gimbal + EIS | Neo 2 has better stability, especially on the roll axis |
| Mechanical Range | Tilt: -120° to 120° | Tilt: -120° to 120° | Same (Physical movement range) |
| Controllable Range | Tilt: -90° to 60° | -90° to 60° | Same (User-controllable shooting range) |
| Battery Capacity | 1435 mAh (10.5 Wh) | 1606 mAh (11.5 Wh) | Neo 2 has a larger battery capacity |
| Charging Time | Approx. 50-60 mins | Approx. 50-60 mins | Similar |
Which is Better: DJI Neo 2 or Neo?
The choice between the Neo and the Neo 2 depends on your budget and intended use.
The Neo 2 is definitely the superior drone due to its substantial upgrades in safety, stability, and imaging. And the Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing and GNSS support (GPS + Galileo + BeiDou) make the Neo 2 significantly safer and easier for beginners to fly. Equipped with a 2-axis mechanical gimbal, 4K at 100fps capability, and Vertical Shooting mode, the Neo 2 allows for far more professional and versatile footage.
If you absolute lowest price and weight (135g), the DJI Neo is more suitable for you. Its performance is not low. Besides, today is the best time to shop as Banggood is holding a big sale. Go to Banggood and pick your best DJI Drone now!
FAQ
Which drone has better video quality and stabilization?
The Neo 2 offers better video quality and stabilization. It features a 2-axis mechanical gimbal (Tilt, Roll), vastly improving stability over the Neo’s Single-axis mechanical gimbal (Tilt only). The Neo 2 also supports higher resolution and frame rate, offering 4K at up to 100fps compared to the Neo’s 4K at 30fps.
Is the Neo 2 faster than the Neo?
While the Neo has a slightly higher maximum speed in the dedicated Manual Mode (16 m/s), the Neo 2 is faster in the more commonly used Normal and Sport modes. The Neo 2 reaches 12 m/s in Sport Mode, while the Neo only reaches 8 m/s in Sport Mode.
Does the Neo 2 offer better low-light performance?
Yes. While both share a 1/2-inch image sensor, the Neo 2 has a wider aperture of f/2.2 compared to the Neo’s f/2.8. A wider aperture allows more light onto the sensor, which improves low-light footage quality.
Is there a DJI Neo 2 coming?
Yes. You can order on Banggood now.
