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DJI Phantom 4 Pro & Phantom 4 Pro+

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Review

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Phantom 4 Pro

8.1

4K Camera

10.0/10

20 MegaPixel Image

10.0/10

Intelligent Flight Modes

10.0/10

Lightbridge Technology

9.0/10

Flight Time

7.0/10

Price

7.0/10

Portability

4.0/10

Pros

  • Brilliant Camera
  • Obstacle Avoidance Technology
  • Very Quick in Sports Mode
  • Lightbridge Technology to Stream HD Footage
  • Sturdy Drone Design

Cons

  • Very Expensive
  • Lacks Portability
  • Software is Updated Constantly

The DJI Phantom 4 Pro is one of the most advanced consumer drones on the market, is made for professional photographers; it feels like it was designed from the ground up to be the perfect assistant for a drone photographer.

It has the best camera, longer flight time, better obstacle detection; it is capable of shooting stunning still images and recording in 4K at 60fps; and considerably more. 

DJI Phantom 4 Pro will surely make the case as one of the best drones in the market especially for aerial photography.

In this post, I will try to give you answers on following questions about Phantom 4 Pro, which you should know before you decide to buy one.

    • What are the best characteristics of Phantom 4 Pro Camera?
    • What are the new intelligent flights modes added to the Phantom 4 pro?
    • How does Phantom 4 Pro detects obstacles and avoid them?
    • What are the Pros and Cons of Phantom 4 Pro?
    • What makes the remote controller of Phantom 4 Pro different from the others?

Plus this, I am going also to give you more answers on FAQs part about differences between Phantom 4 Pro plus, Phantom 4 Pro Obsidian, and Phantom 4 Pro V2 and more.

 

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Design 

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From a design standpoint, the Phantom 4 pro is made extremely well.

It’s not the kind of drone where it just looks cool. Every part has been designed to be functional, but still elegant. 

The many new design features make for a more balanced and agile flying experience and much better resistance to strong winds and with the aerodynamic body has also improved the flying time of the drone.

It can fly super fast, it’s very reliable. T

he HD live video streaming works better than any other drone out there. It’s super easy to set up and use.

One of main features of the Phantom 4 is the added 3D cameras and new computer hardware for mapping out environments in three dimensional space, this is what allows it to avoid obstacles and hover around them.

Assembling the Phantom 4 pro is the same as before except a few tweaks made to installing the propellers, the Phantom 4 Pro uses push and release propellers which are faster to install and give greater acceleration.

The new Phantom 4 PRO is also equipped with dual-mode GPS+GLONASS receivers for much better-hovering capability and flight accuracy and it will be aware of its point of take-off and can return home safely.

The Phantom 4 PRO is a big improvement over the Phantom 3 Pro, in several ways.

 

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Advanced Obstacle Detection &

Collision Avoidance Technology

DJI-PHANTOM-4-PRO-obstacle-detection-collision-avoidance

DJI are not leaving any stones unturned to get ahead in this industry and the safety of their customers, the drone itself is one place they have put in considerable resources to improve. 

The biggest breakthrough for the Phantom 4 pro is its inclusion of a new Optical Sensor unit and real-time 3D vision system that makes it capable of automatically detecting and avoiding obstacles while in flight.

Obstacle detection and collision avoidance provide an entirely new level of safety and convenience for the operator, and it makes planning and navigating a shot simpler and darn near foolproof.

The obstacle avoidance technology is one such safety feature that DJI have introduced, you can literally speed towards a wall or tree and the drone’s obstacle avoidance technology will bring it to a halt.

Well, this drone could be flown by a kid and still wouldn’t crash and the camera footage would still be excellent.

This same system also allows it to hover in position without GPS. Combined with infrared sensors on its left and right sides, the Phantom 4 Pro can avoid obstacles in a total of four directions.

What makes this drone truly remarkable is its obstacle avoidance system, yes other DJI drones have a similar safety feature but the Phantom 4 pro has taken it to another level.

Forward and rearward obstacle sensing range has been increased, allowing the Phantom 4 Pro to fly at 31 miles per hour with full protection of its stereo vision obstacle sensing system. It makes fast, dramatic video easier and ultimately safer to capture.

The front and rear sensors have a 60° horizontal FOV and 54° vertical field of view with a sensory range of  30 meters. While the infrared sensors have a 70° horizontal view and 20° vertical view and a range of 7 meters. The vision is stereoscopic, which means the Phantom 4 sees in 3D. This gives it a good idea of all the obstacles around it, to give you system that is nearly crash proof.

In the intelligent flight modes like TapFly and ActiveTrack, p4p will sense the obstacle and find another way around it or it will just hover until other instructions are provided.

There is really one mode you can crash this drone in and that is sports mode, the only mode the obstacle avoidance system is not active.

With these safety features, the Phantom 4 Pro is suitable for drone enthusiasts of all flying levels. With these technologies being incorporated into the drone; beginner pilots will feel more confident flying a high-end drone.

A quick video on Obstacle Sensing & Vision positioning technology by DJI:

 

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Intelligent Flight Modes 

drone-zoom-DJI-Phantom-4-Pro-intelligent-flight-modeAll the intelligent flight modes from the Phantom 4 have been imported to the Pro version with added features.

The other notable upgrades are new advanced camera and flight automation modes, Active Track, Draw and TapFly, which simplify the planning and execution of high-quality, interesting and dramatic shots.

The controller has a toggle that has three positions, each indicates a flight mode. If you are familiar with previous phantom models, you’ll know what they are.

Positioning mode (P-mode) – The easiest mode and the one all the intelligent flight modes can be flown in. The obstacle avoidance system works only in this mode

Sports mode (S-mode) – This for advanced pilots, the sensitivity of the controls are enhanced and the obstacle avoidance system is turned off. Only fly in this mode if you are experienced and confident. The drone also reaches its top speed in this mode which is around 45mph

Attitude mode (A-mode) – When there is no GPS signal and no vision positioning system the drone will hover at an altitude by using its barometer.

Video of the three modes:

 

With the recent introduction of new DJI controller software, all Phantom  models are now equipped with the following advanced  modes:

  • Follow Me
  • Point of Interest
  • GPS Waypoints
  • Course Lock
  • Return to Home
  • Gesture Mode
  • Tripod Mode

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Active Track Mode:

ActiveTrack intelligent mode allows you to mark and track a moving object on your mobile device screen. It’s the new Follow Me technology.

Now you can just tap on any object in the camera’s Live View, and the camera will stay focused on it.

The Phantom 4 pro will automatically detects multiple objects, avoid obstacles as it flies, follows and captures them as they move, making it easier to get complex shots.  

Automatically identify and trace bikes, vehicles, people and animals and uses many different tracking systems for each.

In ActiveTrack, the drone will follow the subject as chosen by you. There are three modes in ActiveTrack:

Trace – The drone will follow the subject from behind or track in front.

Spotlight –You can fly the drone in any direction, however, the camera will be focused solely on the chosen subject.

Profile – Tracks the subject horizontally. Good for following fast moving objects.

Here a quick video from DJI to we see Phantom 4 pro ActiveTrack mode.

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Draw WayPoints Mode:

Draw is a brand new technology for waypoint control. Now you can just draw your flight route on-screen, and the Phantom 4 PRO will move along that line while keeping its altitude stable. This lets the pilot focus on camera control and taking great photos and videos.

There are two Draw modes to choose from:

Standard mode, drone moves at a constant speed, allowing the operator to focus totally on the shot.

Manual mode, the operator controls the speed and the camera.

Waypoint navigation gives the P4P many more uses outside of aerial filming.  

The Phantom 4 Pro can be mounted with multispectral camera sensors, which have many uses including precision agriculture and golf course maintenance.

When using Draw make sure the battery level is more than 50% for the intelligent flight battery, and the drone is in P-mode.

Quick video on Draw Mode:

 

DJI Phantom 4 Pro TapFly Mode:

With the TapFly feature, users can now tap on the mobile device screen to fly in the designated direction without using the remote controller. The aircraft will automatically avoid obstacles, if there’s an obstacle in the way, it will fly around it automatically.

TapFly mode, which lets you tap a location on screen to automatically fly to, will now work backward and you can rotate the drone or tilt the camera without changing its path.

A new AR route function shows the quadcopters real-time flight direction for reference as its route is adjusted. As it can be difficult to control altitude, course, speed and camera pitch simultaneously using joysticks.

There are now three types of this mode:

TapFly Forward:  Tap to fly in the selected direction
TapFly Backward: Tap to fly in the opposite direction of the tap, i.e. tap in the bottom right corner of the screen to fly backward towards the top left.
TapFly Free – Lock the forward direction of the Phantom without locking the camera direction allowing it to turn as it flies, however, the obstacle avoidance in this mode is turned off.

Quick Video on TapFly Mode:

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Follow Me Mode:

The Follow Me mode uses the ActiveTrack technology mentioned above. The aircraft will automatically follow you and capture your every move from a unique aerial perspective.  Follow me has so many positive uses.

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Point of Interest Mode:

This classic flight mode has been around for a long time and is a great mode to capture some stunning shots from the Phantom drone, select a target and your drone will orbit around it while focusing on it.

In this mode you can also control the speed and direction of your drone in the flight, and pause the function if required while it moves around your point of interest.
Make sure you have enough height around your subject as the obstacle avoidance system will not work in this mode.

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Course Lock Mode:

When Course Lock is activated, the Phantom 4 pro will move in the locked directions no matter what its orientation is, it allows you to fly in a set direction as you fly alongside moving objects or across scenes.

This flight mode is  like the Home Lock mode but as in it makes the drone only fly forward and back on a fixed path set by the pilot in flight. This helps you with just having to concentrate on the direction the camera is pointed and the speed of the Phantom rather than you having to constantly change the path that the Phantom 4 pro travels in.

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Return to Home Mode:

In its upgraded Return to Home mode, the Phantom 4 Pro can automatically choose the best route to return home depending on environmental conditions.

It records its route as it flies; allowing it to return along the same route avoiding obstacles if the control signal is disconnected.   

Based on its altitude at the time of disconnection, the Phantom 4 Pro is also able to adjust its flight path to avoid obstacles it has seen during its flight.

At takeoff, the Phantom 4 Pro will record the scene below and compare its recording with what it sees as it returns, for more precise landing.

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Gesture Mode:

In Gesture Mode, the Phantom 4 Pro’ using advanced technology vision systems recognize gesture. People can gesture certain ways towards the drone and it will follow and capture selfies without a phone or a controller.

Quick video on Gesture Mode:

 

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Tripod Mode:

Tripod Mode is a hugely popular mode for photographers and videographers.

It’s designed to give you smooth and steady pictures and videos by fixing your drone to a location and limiting movement.

In this mode the maximum flight speed is limited to 5.6 mph and the braking distance is reduced to 6.6 ft (2 m). Tap the icon in the DJI GO 4 app to enable it.

You need a strong GPS signal or light conditions are ideal for the vision system in order to use this mode.

A quick video on Tripod Mode:

 

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Terrain Follow Mode:

Terrain Follow Mode will use its Downward Vision System to smoothly maintain the drone’s height while going up a hill with a 20° incline.

The height can be set between 1 and 10 meters. This mode is only for inclines and will not work when going downhill.

Quick Video on Terrain Follow:

 

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Camera

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This is where the Phantom 4 Pro/pro+ really stands out from its competition and its predecessor as if all the other features weren’t enough.

DJI went ahead and improved its camera that will have even professional photographers drooling.

This terrific camera uses a 1-inch image CMOS sensor which is nearly 4 times bigger than the sensor on the Phantom 4. 

This will make your photographs and video far more crisp and detailed. The camera can capture RAW and JPG images at an amazing 20 megapixels and record, store 4k videos at 60 fps on MOV and MP4 formats.   

The 20 megapixel photos taken by the phantom 4 pro/pro+ is the result of the application of advanced image processing technique.

The phantom 4 pro/pro+ is the first DJI camera to use a mechanical shutter. Eliminating rolling shutter distortion which can occur when taking images of fast moving subjects or when flying at high speed.

It also has aperture control from f/2.8 to f/11 that gives you more options for your photography.

The Phantom 4 Pro supports the capture of 4k at 60 fps. Both H.264 and H.265 are supported, with a maximum video bitrate of 100Mbps.

You have a wide choice of recording options and if the 4k files are too much, you can downgrade to the equally impressive 2.7k format.

You can record all these settings in h.264 and h.265 codec.

The highest video capture resolution is 4K at 60 fps. You can also record at 120 fps with HD resolution.

The 3 axial gimbals provide exceptional stability for the camera when it comes to recording footage even with the sports mode on. The gimbal uses the latest technology in stabilization, allowing you to capture clear, stable images and video, it can tilt the camera within a 120° range.

Two Videos from Billy kyle on Phantom 4 Pro Camera setting and sample footage:

 

Sample Footage:

 

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Battery Performance

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Under ideal conditions, DJI says the Phantom 4 Pro can remain airborne for up to 30 minutes.

This intelligent battery is now smaller, more powerful and easier to swap out.

The advanced battery system works in conjunction with the flight control system to automatically alert you to near-depleted battery status – it can even return the drone home, automatically, when batteries run too low.

The DJI intelligent flight battery has a capacity of 5870 mAh, a voltage of 15.2 V, and smart charge/discharge functionality. It should only be charged using an appropriate DJI approved charger.

A Quick video on intelligent flight battery:

 

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Remote Controller

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The controller fits in with the whole elegant design and all white finish of the drone. It fits perfectly into your hands and all the controls are within easy reach.

There are buttons to take still images and start and stop video recording. It has two dials on the top, one for gimbal pitch and the other to control camera settings.

The Phantom 4 PRO controller comes with a new Sport mode button which boosts power temporarily to add a kick in speed.

The P4P streams live video direct to your device in 720p from a distance of up to 1.2 miles. And your phone will charge while connected to the controller.

As in prior models, just connect your phone or tablet (iOS or Android) to the USB port on the controller and you’re ready to film.

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For an additional $300, the Phantom 4 PRO+ adds a 5.5 inch dedicated 1080p display that is exceptionally bright and integrates the DJI Go app into it.

                               DJI Phantom 4 PRO+ 1080p display

 

  Quick Video on linking phantom 4 Pro Remote Controller:

 

DJI Phantom 4 Pro DJI GO App 

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The DJI Go App Is a mobile application designed specifically for DJI equipment. It is used to control the gimbal, camera and other drone functions.

This App runs on the Pro+ display or on your phone or tablet, allowing you to see and control everything through one screen.

The entire display is a camera view with some icons and text overlaying it.

Everything is gathered in an incredibly clever manner with flying settings (landing, take off, flying mode) on the left and camera settings (photograph/video, exposure settings) on the right.

Over the display screen, there are a few signs (like whether it’s safe to fly, battery level, GPS connection status) and on the base, a few “instruments” (horizontal, altitude, distance, and vertical speed and map).

You register this drone, and control it, utilizing the DJI Go App that is accessible for iOS and Android devices.

 

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Price and Support

The DJI Phantom 4 Pro sells for $1,500 with the standard controller which is pretty amazing considering that you’re getting the most technologically advanced drone on the market.

If you want the high-luminance display controller (Phantom 4 Pro+), you’re looking at $1, 800, and based on our test flights, you’re going to spring for the screen.

Recently, DJI has expanded their customer support team and now they even have DJI Care, which is like a damage protection plan for drones. With DJI Care, you can send your Phantom 3, Phantom 4, or even Inspire 2 to DJI and they will fix it for free even if the crash was your fault. If you want to know more about DJI care.

 

DJI Phantom 4 Pro  Conclusion 

Phantom 4 Pro is a magnificent tool both for videographers and photographers, with the release of the Phantom 4 Pro; DJI once again has raised the bar for aerial photography.

With its 4k camera and stabilized gimbal you can pretty much take exceptionally professional grade photos and its 4-way obstacle avoidance technology will make for safer flying.

It has flight modes for everyone, from absolute beginners to experienced drone pilots. This is a great drone for any purpose but especially for aerial photography. With each flight, I discover something new to try on this advanced drone.

The DJI Phantom 4 pro is one of the best drones on the market today, if not the actual best. You will have a lot of fun flying this drone, and will be highly impressed with its video and photo quality.

The way DJI are producing drones, I won’t be surprised if another Phantom is in the works. Pick any of DJI drones and you will not be disappointed.

Finally, here an excellent video from Colin Smith on Phantom 4 Pro:

 

DJI Phantom 4 Pro Faqs 

What are the main similarities and differences between the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 and Phantom 4 Pro?

Different from the Phantom 4 Pro, the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 is equipped with an OcuSync transmission system, which allows the drone to connect to DJI Goggles wirelessly. The Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 also features an upgraded propulsion system with FOC sinusoidal driver ESCs and 9455S quick-release propellers that reduce noise and make the drone more aerodynamic.

  • The remote controller of Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 is not compatible with the Phantom 4 Pro, which uses Lightbridge transmission. Other accessories such as batteries, chargers, and ND filters are compatible with both the Phantom 4 Pro and Phantom 4 Pro V2.0.

What, if any, are the main differences between the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 and Phantom 4 Pro Obsidian?

The Phantom 4 Pro Obsidian comes in a matte black casing. Functionally, the Phantom 4 Pro Obsidian is the same as the Phantom 4 Pro. As such, the main differences between the Phantom 4 Pro Obsidian and Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 are mentioned in question 1.

Can I connect an iOS device or Android device to the Phantom 4 Pro+ V2.0 remote controller to use DJI GO 4?

No.

What’s the Speed and Range of Phantom 4 Pro

The new enhanced motors of DJI Phantom 4 enable you to fly faster; this gives this drone a top speed of 45 mph, which is quite fast.

The Phantom 4 PRO’s range is greatly extended; it can fly up to 4.3 miles away from the controller, more than twice the range of most other RTF camera drones.

Can use I Phantom 4 Pro propellers on the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0?

Yes. Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 and Phantom 4 Pro propellers are cross-compatible. However, Phantom 4 Pro propellers (9450S) are less aerodynamic and louder than Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 propellers (9455S propellers).

What is the capacity of the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 battery? How much has the flight time been extended compared to the Phantom 4?

The battery capacity is 5870mAh. It flies for two additional minutes compared to the Phantom 4.

During updating, if the battery level of the aircraft battery or controller battery drops below 50%, will the update process fail?

Yes. Always use a battery with more than 50% power when upgrading.

What is the difference between updating the firmware on the Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 and Phantom 4 Pro?

When updating firmware with the DJI GO 4 app for Phantom 4 Pro V2.0, confirm that the remote controller and aircraft are connected. Then download the firmware for the update following the prompts in the app. No OTG cable is required, unlike with the Phantom 4 Pro.

Does the DJI Phantom 4 Pro come with a controller?

The DJI Phantom 4 Pro comes with a Standard pack with remote controller (7km remote control range), but without a screen display, you use your phone with DJI GO app for display and control.

With an additional $300, the Phantom 4 PRO+ adds a 5.5 inch dedicated 1080p display integrates the DJI Go app into it.

 

 

What do you think?

Written by Chris Johnson

Chris is a Telecom engineer with 10 years of experience and a huge drone enthusiast. He's passionate to write on drone technology!

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