Xiaomi launch the FIMI A3, a new photography and FPV drone.
What makes it so significant
DJI’s recent releases signaled a move into the smaller and more advanced drones. Xiaomi gives you almost identical features as DJI’s latest drone for a buck banging price around $270.
Sound familiar?
DJI have the Mavic and Tello, Xiaomi has the Mi Drone and Mi Tu Drone. Both are offering similar to DJI products for a bargain price.Xiaomi also did it with phones, security cameras, and electric scooters
Key features of the Xiaomi FIMI A3
Built-in screen Transmitter
Including a screen in the transmitter means it is instant set up and does not require you worry about your phone and the transmitter battery. It also won’t (hopefully) suffer from shutdowns that can happen when phones get hot in the sun.
Full HD stabilized camera
Xiaomi combines software and mechanical stabilization in the FIMI A3. The two-axis gimbal is supported by software stabilization on the third axis.
Unbeatable Flight time
Rated to give you 25 mins of flight, this is more than all alternatives (DJI and other less known options)
FIMI Advanced flight modes
Comes with advanced flight modes for automated video capture. It can:
- Orbit
- Follow you
- Fixed wing (behave like a plane)
- Dronie (Selfies)
- Headless mode
The other basic smart flight systems are there too, you can return to home based on the GPS location it took off from.
Auxiliary port

Feeling creative? Xiaomi has a dedicated auxiliary channel for adding lights or other controllable items. This gives you the ability to build and control something you attach to the quad.
Price
At less than $300 nothing comes close to offering the same in this price range. Only the DJI spark and the Hubsan Zino are close but more than 100 more.
November to December is the peak for drone sales every year, and this perfectly timed release is set to be a popular choice as a drone gift or for yourself during the holiday.
We recommend this over any other drone this year if you are looking for a great video quad with the latest smart features.