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DJI Smart Controller Review – Is It Actually Worth It?

DJI Smart Controller Review – Is It Actually Worth It?

All drones are controlled with a remote controller; however, DJI drones have a different type of controller. Some DJI controllers include the DJI Cendence controller, N3 flight controller, ATMEL ATmega microcontroller, and the smart controller. The DJI smart controller is one of the newest inventions of the DJI manufacturing industry.

The DJI smart controller is well worth the money, especially if you have multiple DJI drones. It is designed to work with several drone models. You do not need a smartphone or many controllers; if you have only one drone, you can regularly utilize it for professional business. 

When it comes to DJI inventions, they are usually high-tech and very innovative. The DJI industry always makes sure their products are of high quality and performance so that consumers fully enjoy their products.

drone and controll sunset

DJI Smart Controller Review

The DJI Smart Controller was constructed with the client's needs in mind, which is why it includes a built-in radio receiver, programmable joysticks and buttons, simple calibration, and an LCD screen. It also has a great range, so you will never lose connection while flying your drone far away from your starting point.

This is an excellent investment for anyone looking to improve their drone flying skills. One of the main reasons people purchase the smart controller is because of its compatibility. Except for a few drones from the same series, most DJI remote controllers are not interchangeable.

One drone might never be enough for a professional drone user because each has its capabilities. Consider the case when you have four drones and must transport all of the controllers, batteries, and drones in your suitcase. That is much weight to bear, but with the smart controller, you can avoid this.

The DJI smart controller can currently be used with the Phantom 4 V2.0, Mavic 2 Zoom, Mavic Enterprise Series, Mini 2, Mavic Air 2, Mavic Air 2S, and Mavic Air 2. The Smart Controller from DJI is more durable than a typical smartphone or tablet. You should use the smart controller if you utilize your drones in places with extreme cold or heat.

It can function in temperatures ranging from -4 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Temperatures below zero degrees Fahrenheit or above 100 degrees Fahrenheit are not suitable for a regular smartphone. Some drone controllers can withstand high temperatures, but they lack screen capability if your smartphone fails.

Most times, you are always required to download an application on your tablet or smartphone if you need to perform an activity like streaming footage to social media. While downloading apps is not difficult, the SkyTalk app on the Smart Controller makes the procedure considerably simpler.

You will not have to transfer your images and videos between devices to share them on your channels with the DJI smart controller. Instead, you can broadcast your flying session to your audience in real-time. Another feature of the DJI smart controller is its ability to split-screen so that others can watch the live footage while you are flying.

This is possible via the HDMI output, which lets you connect to another device and watch the footage without interrupting the flight. The DJI Mavic Air 2, Mavic 2 Zoom, and most DJI drones' controllers do not support HDMI output. The speakers and microphones are two other helpful features that you will not find in other controllers.

One of the amazing features DJI added to the smart controller is to combine a controller and a monitor. Even though its screen is not as modern as those found in other devices, it is extremely brilliant, twice as bright as regular smartphones. Even when it is sunny outside, this brightness allows you to see the screen or live footage.

It can be tough to use a smartphone when it is too bright outside. When it is too sunny, some drone users have to rely on a sun hood on their smartphone, damaging your whole flying experience. However, with the Smart Controller, you will not need this hood because the screen is bright enough to see even on bright days.

What Is DJI Smart Controller?

The Mavic 2 drones from DJI are one of the most user-friendly flying devices, but there is always space for improvement. Flyers have requested that the controller be enhanced, so DJI has just developed a new accessory dubbed the DJI Smart Controller.

To pilot these drones, you would typically use a smartphone or tablet connected to DJI's standard controller and running the DJI Go app, with the screen on your device conveying information, the ability to interact with the drone via touch controls, and a live video feed from the drone's camera.

This arrangement is replaced by the Smart Controller, designed to provide a more professional and friendly manner of operating your drone. The DJI smart controller is constructed and designed to help you get the most out of your flying experience with any OcuSync 2.0 equipped aircraft.

Even under tough situations, the 5.5-inch built-in screen of this controller delivers clear, bright visuals. You will be flying longer, clearer, more conveniently, and faster than before with easy controls like the DJI Go 4 application. The 5.5-inch display of this controller has an outstanding Ultra-bright quality of 1080P HD, allowing you to monitor your feed in strong sunshine.

At 1000 Cd/M2, the screen displays roughly twice as bright visuals as typical smart device panels. You will be able to ensure speedier, more concentrated aerial creation with a tailored Android system. The controller is portable enough to take anywhere, with removable control sticks and a sleek, integrated design.

controll drone flying

DJI Smart Controller Accessories

The DJI smart controller is an excellent gadget for most DJI drones like the Mavic 2 drones. However, it is possible you are satisfied with the features of this controller and wish to improvise. Getting some accessories will help; below are some of the DJI Smart Controller accessories you can get.

Further Reading: DJI Fly App – Complete Guide

Antenna Range Extender

You can attach one of Alientech's Duo 2.4G & 5.8G signal boosters to your Smart Controller if you want to fly further out and gain some extra range between your remote and the drone. With an antenna range extender, you will notice a substantial increase in maneuverability, and the quad will be able to fly at least twice as far as the original craft.

Remote Control Strap

While using the DJI smart controller, getting a good lanyard neck strap is best. It keeps your valuable remote from falling to the ground, relieves hand fatigue while flying, and serves as a handy method to carry it around your neck or shoulder while walking. A remote-control strap is a cheap but valuable accessory as it protects your controller.

Sunshades

The screen of a DJI smart controller is brighter than that of a typical smartphone; hence, a sunshade for the controller is a good investment. It eliminates unwanted reflections, giving you complete control. It has a matte PU lining with a premium feel to it. You fasten it to the controller with screws, making installation quick and easy.

Glass Screen Protectors

Making sure the glass of your expensive controller is protected is very important. The screen of your smart controller is similar to that of a smartphone; however, it is less expensive to add a screen protector. It is recommended to invest in a two-pack of DJI Smart Controller-specific anti-glare and anti-scratch screen guards.

Keep reading: DJI Mini 3 – Release Date, Rumors, Specs, & Price! [GUIDE]

Final Thoughts

The DJI Smart Controller does away with the necessity for a controller and a smartphone which is a relief for DJI drone users. You might be hesitant to purchase this controller because of the price difference between it and the drone. However, its advantages over a normal controller and smartphone justify the high price.

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