ClassifiedJanuary 21, 2025

DJI Flip Review: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

The DJI Flip is the latest addition to DJI's lineup of compact drones. Packed with features and a lightweight design, the DJI Flip promises a lot, but how does it perform in real-world scenarios? This honest, unsponsored review dives into the good, the bad, and the downright ugly to help you decide if the DJI Flip is the right drone for you.

The Good

1. Compact and Lightweight Design
Weighing in at just 249 grams, the DJI Flip is regulation-friendly, especially for countries with relaxed rules for drones under 250 grams. Its foldable design and integrated prop guards make it both portable and durable, ideal for beginners.

2. Impressive Camera and Features
The DJI Flip boasts a 1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor capable of capturing sharp, detailed footage. It supports 4K video recording at 60fps and offers both 12MP and 48MP photo modes. With features like a 3-axis gimbal, the camera provides stable, smooth footage even in challenging conditions.

3. Advanced Flight Technology
Equipped with DJI's OcuSync 4.0 technology, the Flip delivers a stable 1080p live feed to the controller, ensuring a reliable signal during flights. It also includes smart flight modes like MasterShots, QuickShots, and FocusTrack, enabling users to capture cinematic footage effortlessly.

4. Battery Versatility
The included charging hub supports up to four batteries and doubles as a power bank to charge external devices. While lab-tested flight time is 31 minutes, real-world use averages around 24-25 minutes, which is decent for a drone in this category.

5. Noise Level and Wind Resistance
The Flip is quieter than many competitors, making it less intrusive during flights. Despite its lightweight design, it handles moderate winds well, although it isn't on par with the DJI Mini 4 Pro.

The Bad

1. Limited Obstacle Avoidance
While the Flip includes a 3D infrared sensor for obstacle detection, it only stops when an obstacle is detected. Unlike higher-end models, it cannot bypass obstacles or adjust its flight path, which limits its utility in complex environments.

2. No True Vertical Video
Though it supports vertical video, the Flip crops from the horizontal image rather than using true vertical capture. This may disappoint users seeking dedicated vertical footage for platforms like Instagram or TikTok.

3. Lack of Remote ID and Navigation Lights
The Flip does not broadcast remote ID in the U.S., limiting its usability in certain areas. Additionally, its lack of navigation lights makes night flying in Europe and other regions illegal without modifications, which could push its weight over 250 grams.

4. Basic FocusTrack Features
The Flip's FocusTrack is limited to humans and cannot track vehicles or perform full 360-degree tracking. This restricts creative possibilities compared to more advanced drones.

The Ugly

1. Limited Palm Control and Ergonomics
While palm takeoff is a neat feature, the placement of the mode button is awkward, making it difficult to activate the drone without accidentally pressing it during handling.

2. Premium Price Without True Premium Features
The Flip is only sold with a controller, which inflates its price. Additionally, some competitors offer features like omni-terrain capability and better obstacle avoidance for a similar cost.

3. Stability Concerns in Ground Takeoffs
The Flip's rear props sit close to the ground, making takeoffs from uneven surfaces challenging and potentially unstable.

Should You Buy the DJI Flip?

The DJI Flip is a well-rounded drone for beginners and casual users, offering excellent camera quality, portability, and ease of use. While it has some drawbacks—such as limited obstacle avoidance and restricted night flying capabilities—it’s a solid option at its price point, especially for those who don’t require the advanced features of the DJI Mini 4 Pro.

If you’re looking for a reliable, compact drone for casual photography and videography, the DJI Flip is worth considering. However, if you demand peak performance and cutting-edge features, you may want to explore other options in DJI’s lineup.