The DJI Neo FPV drone has created quite a buzz as an affordable option packed with DJI’s advanced technology, especially for beginners in the FPV community. While it certainly has some appealing features, there are several reasons why, as an experienced FPV pilot, I’m choosing not to buy the DJI Neo. In this review, I’ll break down the key downsides of the DJI Neo and explain why it might not be the right fit for more seasoned pilots.
The DJI Neo is a type of cinewhoops, which you can learn more in this buyer’s guide: https://oscarliang.com/cinewhoop/
Table of Contents
Where to Buy?
Product Pages for the DJI Neo:
- GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-i7tn
- AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DEVA51h
- Amazon: https://amzn.to/3ZkxEFS
- RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-sebt
- NBD: https://oscarliang.com/product-dg0c
The Reasons Why I’m Not Buying the DJI Neo
Here’s why I’m passing on the DJI Neo:
Lack of Power: The Neo’s motors lack the power needed for anything beyond casual cruising. It maxes out quickly in manual mode, making it incapable of freestyle flying or performing acro maneuvers. If you’re expecting any real agility, you’ll be disappointed. The Neo is simply not built for that type of performance.
Video Quality: The Neo’s image quality is noticeably inferior to DJI’s other FPV offerings like the Avata 2 or the DJI O3 Air Unit. The 4K resolution sounds good on paper, but the footage lacks the detail and dynamic range that higher-end DJI drones deliver, making it disappointing for those looking for professional grade quality.
Poor Wind Performance: Due to its lightweight design, the Neo struggles in windy conditions. Even a moderate breeze can cause the drone to drift, making it difficult to control and limiting its usability in outdoor environments.
Additional Costs for Full Functionality: While the Neo might be quite affordable, but if you don’t already own DJI FPV goggles or remote controllers, expect to spend much more on the necessary gear. This quickly raises the total investment far beyond the drone’s base price.
Simply put, the DJI Neo doesn’t fly well compared to other 2-inch BNF cinewhoops. Its flight performance is subpar, and the video quality is a significant downgrade from DJI’s other drones.
If you’ve already bought the DJI Avata 2, like I have, there’s even less reason to buy the Neo, as it feels like a downgrade in both FPV capability and video quality.
Who Should Skip the DJI Neo?
If you’ve built and flown custom FPV drones before, the DJI Neo is likely to disappoint.
The Neo offers smooth, easy-to-control flight, but it isn’t designed for the high-speed, dynamic maneuvers that experienced FPV pilots crave. Its limited power makes it a poor choice for anyone accustomed to more powerful drones capable of freestyle or advanced acro moves. You’ll outgrow its abilities quickly.
And while it boasts 4K video, the footage is far from impressive. It lacks the flat color profile and post-processing flexibility you’d get with the DJI O3 or Avata. For casual users, the camera might be sufficient, but if you’re serious about image quality, the Neo doesn’t deliver. A better option for those seeking a 2-inch cinewhoop with solid flight characteristics and video performance is the BetaFPV Pavo20 Pro with the DJI O3 Air Unit.
Who Is the DJI Neo For?
The DJI Neo does have its place—for certain types of users.
If you’ve never flown an FPV drone and don’t mind the limitations in camera quality and flight performance, the Neo can be a decent entry point into the world of FPV. It’s great for cruising around and exploring FPV flight without diving into the complexity of custom builds. The Neo also comes with some helpful features, like GPS for outdoor flying and positioning sensors for indoor use.
Additionally, the Neo’s lightweight and durable design make it crash-resistant, which is ideal for beginners. It’s much more forgiving than heavier drones like the DJI Avata 2, which is known for being prone to damage.
For those who already own DJI camera drones and are curious about FPV, the Neo provides an affordable, low-risk way to transition into the world of FPV flying. Its ease of use and versatility make it a solid choice for complete beginners.
If you’re looking for more affordable options, the NewBeeDrone VRDrone FPV kit is another entry-level choice, but the DJI Neo offers superior image quality, albeit with a higher price tag.
Conclusion
In summary, the DJI Neo isn’t a great fit for experienced FPV pilots. It lacks the power, stability, and video quality required for advanced maneuvers and professional video capture, especially in windy conditions.
However, for beginners who want an accessible, easy-to-fly FPV drone without the steep learning curve, the DJI Neo is a viable option. It’s a great way to get into FPV flying without a huge investment, though you’ll likely need to purchase additional DJI gear for a complete experience.
You can purchase the DJI Neo from these vendors:
- GetFPV: https://oscarliang.com/product-i7tn
- AliExpress: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_DEVA51h
- Amazon: https://amzn.to/3ZkxEFS
- RDQ: https://oscarliang.com/product-sebt
- NBD: https://oscarliang.com/product-dg0c
I’m also keeping an eye on the FPV system used in the DJI Neo. If DJI releases a lightweight, standalone air unit (perhaps the DJI O4 Lite), it could be a game-changer for small custom FPV builds, combining excellent image quality and video link with their latest flagship FPV goggles.
11 comments
I have to disagree, the neo is not designed for FPV usage, sure it has the features but this drone is designed for anyone with or without drone experience. The focus for this drone is simple shots while you’re out with the family or just going for a hike… not for what you’re trying to push.
People need to stop thinking this is an FPV drone… its not.
Thanks for the info
I was thinking of buying one
Neo is not an FPV drone. It’s a selfie drone to capture the moment without the need to mess with too many settings and controllers. Anything else, like compatibility with other DJI products is a bonus but it shouldn’t define it’s purpose.
It has FPV capability, then why can’t we look at it from an FPV perspective and point out it’s limitations in FPV applications?
So many DJI fanboi in the comments. Is that your excuse for DJI? “It’s not an FPV drone”, so it’s ok to be bad at it?
Hi Oscar!, I once had a DJI Phantom 4 Pro. Fantastic thing back in the day. Having just bought a NEO on impulse after seeing a few reviews, I thought I would follow up on your review. PROS 1. I just flew mine over my flat here on the coast, and although the 15mph or so wind did buffet it, the 4K video output is rock solid. You would never know! 2. The quality isn’t too bad, in particular for motion footage where artificers are ignored by the numen eye, so it’s fine for casual use. 3. The follow me feature is fantastic! Really works, and got to hand it to DJI for cramming such tech into such an affordable compact machine. CONS: 1 Battery life is not 18 mins, maybe 12? 2. When I fly manual with my Galaxy Fold5, (I’ll write to DJI about this), the flight controls do not appear when the screen is unfolded. I have to close it, use the outer display and relaunch the app. (Works fine on my iPad Pro 11″) 3. The on/off button is very finicky. Sometimes won’t come on, sometimes won’t switch off. Have to keep trying. Prob just a firmware issue or intermittent button contacts. Anyway, for the price, NEO is damned good fun for travel, families/kids or maybe a B cam for video pros? I def agree with you that buying additional accessories like controller or Goggles are wasted, may as well get a Mini or Mavic.
I bought the NEO mainly for travelling light, and pending local laws, be nice to get some city shots in Barcelona and other places I’m visiting. I would get a Mini or better, but budget limits and my money goes on fixed wing RC! #crashysmashy
Link to footage over my flat. being it uses WiFi, loses connection if I fly over the lip of the roof, hence I kept her near edge, else lose signal. photos.app.goo.gl/whaLJ2e2m7Hq2UyR6
Yea it all depends on which angle you look at it and what your expectations are.
As mentioned, the NEO would be an interesting drone for people who are not familiar with FPV, but would be a disappointment for experienced FPV pilots.
Thanks for the article and opinion.
Check out quadmovr’s YouTube video flying the Neo LOS. Lol
16 meters a second is not slow in my book. And I don’t think any professionals are looking to buy the NEO for professional work, and expecting professional quality 4K from a $200 drone. This drone was designed mainly just for fun.
I don’t quite get the point of your comment, I feel like you are just repeating what was said in the article.