DJI Air 3S

Overview

The DJI Air 3S represents a significant evolution in DJI's mid-range drone lineup, released in October 2024 as a direct successor to the popular Air 3. This drone occupies a strategic position between the Air 3 and the professional Mavic 3 Pro, offering flagship-level features at a more accessible price point. The standout innovation is its forward-facing LiDAR system—a first for any consumer DJI drone—which dramatically enhances obstacle avoidance capabilities in all lighting conditions.

Designed for serious enthusiast photographers, content creators, and semi-professional filmmakers, the Air 3S delivers exceptional image quality through its dual-camera system while maintaining the portability that the Air series is known for. With 45 minutes of flight time and the latest O4 transmission technology, this drone pushes the boundaries of what's possible in the prosumer segment.

Key Specifications

• Main Camera (Wide): 1-inch CMOS sensor, 50MP, f/1.7 aperture
• Telephoto Camera: 1/1.3-inch sensor, 3x optical zoom, 50MP
• Video Resolution: Up to 4K/60fps HDR, 4K/120fps standard
• Video Formats: 10-bit D-Log M, HLG, H.264/H.265
• Flight Time: Up to 45 minutes
• Transmission System: DJI O4, up to 20km range
• Obstacle Sensing: Omnidirectional with forward-facing LiDAR
• Obstacle Avoidance: APAS 6.0
• Max Speed: 21 m/s (Sport Mode)
• Weight: Approximately 720g
• Internal Storage: 42GB
• Operating Temperature: -10°C to 40°C

Pricing & Configuration

The DJI Air 3S is available in multiple configurations to suit different needs and budgets:

• DJI Air 3S (Standard): $1,099 - Includes drone, RC-N3 controller (requires smartphone), one battery, and essential accessories
• DJI Air 3S (RC 2 Bundle): $1,299 - Includes drone with DJI RC 2 controller featuring built-in screen
• DJI Air 3S Fly More Combo (RC-N3): $1,449 - Adds two extra batteries, charging hub, ND filters, and shoulder bag
• DJI Air 3S Fly More Combo (RC 2): $1,649 - Complete package with RC 2 controller and all Fly More accessories

DJI Care Refresh is available separately, offering comprehensive coverage against accidents, water damage, and flyaways with express replacement service.

Pros and Cons

Advantages

• Forward-facing LiDAR provides unmatched obstacle detection accuracy, especially in low-light conditions
• The 1-inch sensor with f/1.7 aperture captures stunning low-light footage with minimal noise
• Industry-leading 45-minute flight time reduces battery anxiety during shoots
• O4 transmission ensures rock-solid connection at extreme distances
• 4K/60fps HDR delivers broadcast-ready footage with excellent dynamic range
• Dual camera system eliminates the need for multiple drones or lens changes
• APAS 6.0 enables confident flying in complex environments

Disadvantages

• Price increase over Air 3 may deter budget-conscious buyers
• Increased weight affects portability compared to lighter alternatives
• Lacks the 7x telephoto option found on the more expensive Mavic 3 Pro
• 4K maximum resolution falls behind some competitors offering 5.1K or 8K
• Forward-facing LiDAR adds complexity that some users may not need

Who Should Buy This Drone?

Professional Content Creators

Filmmakers and YouTubers requiring reliable, high-quality footage will appreciate the dual camera flexibility and exceptional video quality. The 4K/60fps HDR capability paired with 10-bit D-Log M provides extensive post-production latitude.

Real Estate and Commercial Photographers

The combination of wide-angle and telephoto cameras makes property documentation efficient, while the LiDAR-enhanced obstacle avoidance provides confidence when flying near structures.

Travel Photographers

Despite being slightly heavier than its predecessor, the Air 3S remains travel-friendly while offering dramatically improved image quality. The 45-minute flight time means capturing more content per outing.

Advanced Hobbyists

Enthusiasts ready to step up from entry-level drones will find the Air 3S offers professional features without the steep learning curve or price tag of the Mavic 3 series.

Those Who Shouldn't Buy

• Budget-conscious beginners would be better served by the DJI Mini 4 Pro or standard Air 3
• Users requiring maximum telephoto reach should consider the Mavic 3 Pro with its 7x zoom
• Pilots who prioritize absolute portability may prefer lighter alternatives

Final Verdict

The DJI Air 3S establishes itself as the most capable drone in the Air series to date and arguably the best prosumer drone available in late 2024. The introduction of forward-facing LiDAR is not merely a marketing gimmick—it fundamentally changes how confidently pilots can navigate complex environments, particularly during golden hour or dusk shoots when lighting conditions challenge traditional vision-based sensors.

The dual-camera system strikes an excellent balance between versatility and image quality. While the Mavic 3 Pro offers an additional telephoto option, most users will find the 1-inch wide sensor and 3x telephoto combination covers the vast majority of shooting scenarios. The f/1.7 aperture on the main camera is particularly impressive, delivering clean footage in conditions that would challenge lesser sensors.

With 45 minutes of flight time and 20km transmission range, the Air 3S essentially eliminates the technical limitations that once constrained aerial photography. Battery life anxiety becomes a thing of the past, and the O4 system ensures your connection remains stable even at extreme distances.

At $1,099 for the base configuration, the Air 3S isn't cheap, but it delivers exceptional value when compared to the capabilities you receive. For serious aerial photographers and videographers who demand the best without stepping up to the Mavic 3 Pro's price tag, the DJI Air 3S is an outstanding choice that will remain relevant for years to come.

Rating: 4.7/5 — A near-perfect prosumer drone that sets new standards for its category.