We were informed in June that DJI was about release its most affordable drone, the $299 DJI MiniSE. It was a redesigned Mavic Mini, or $150 less than the DJI Mini 2, which is currently our favorite under $500. It was not clear if it would make any significant improvements to the Mavic Mini, or if it would just be an affordable rebrand.DJI quietly sold the Mini SE this week. We now know the answer.These are the only differences between Mavic Mini's $399 and Mini SE's $299, as per the company's FAQ and spec sheets.It features the DJI Mini 2s latest chassis with fewer screws, stronger arms and higher wind resistanceIt uses lighter, more powerful LiPo LiPo batteries from DJI Mini 2s, propellers and a charging hub.Instead of micro-USB, the drone has a USB-C charging port.To get manual ISO settings or 24p video, you don't need to update your firmwareDJI Mini SE doesn't have 4K printed on its lens and the rear aircraft status indicator (no clickable) is not clickable.All other aspects are identical, which means that you won't get the DJI Mini 2's much longer range and better connection. Mini SE ships with an old Mavic Mini foldable design, which relied on enhanced WiFi. You can't swap out the controller either. It doesn't support 4K video at all, only 2.7K and 1080p. Also, it won't likely offer the same photo quality improvements as our Mini 2 review.DJI claims that a few accessories can be interchangeable between the three mini drones.The Mavic Mini SE battery charger hub cannot charge DJI Mini SE batteries, but it can charge the Mavic Mini SE battery. DJI Mini SE may use Mavic Minis batteries, but the power will be reduced and the weight will exceed 250g. This will require registration in certain countries and regions. DJI Mini 2 is compatible with the DJI Mini SE Intelligent Fly Battery, propellers and Two-Way Charging hub. Mavic Mini Snap Adapter and Mavic Mini Propeller Holder are compatible with DJI Mini SE.Your wireless range will depend on where you purchase it and how you use it. The Mavic Mini has a 4km transmission range. Asia, Europe, and New Zealand get MT2SS5 versions.The DJI Mini SE is available at Amazon, Adorama and Best Buy as well as eBay in the United States. You don't need to register the DJI Mini SE here. However, if you plan to fly for pleasure, you will need to pass the FAA's quick and easy test.
