Mavic 4 Pro Review

Overview

• Mavic Pro Lineup: Has a significant reputation among drone enthusiasts and is often considered a standout product line within DJI.
• Evolution:
  • Mavic Pro: Launched with a "Wow" factor, introducing a new concept in drone technology.
  • Mavic 2 Pro (2018): Impressed with its 1-inch sensor, enhancing image quality.
  • Mavic 3 Pro: Offered fewer wows but introduced a triple-camera setup, which was a first for drones.

Mavic 4 Pro: Features & Design

Expectations vs. Reality

• Expected Improvements:
  • Better telephoto image quality.
  • Longer battery life.
• Actual Features:
  • Physical ND filter (lacking anticipated electronic ND filter).
  • Considered one of the most powerful portable drones available despite some aesthetic changes.

Design and Build

• Heavier by 120 grams compared to previous models.
• Fisheye camera repositioned; LiDAR sensor added to the front right arm.
• Battery is not backward compatible; new purchases required.
• Gimbal design is "smart" but considered "ugly" by some.
• Gimbal can tilt up to 70 degrees, enhancing the capturing of dramatic upward-moving shots.

Gimbal Innovation

• New spherical gimbal design:
  • Allows for vertical video shooting without cropping.
  • Provides capability for horizontal leveling, previously exclusive to larger drones like the Inspire 3.
• Lack of gimbal axis locks makes handling cumbersome when powered off.
• Gimbal design increase makes it susceptible to damage.

Camera and Image Quality

Telephoto Lens

• Redesigned to be better for actual shooting with a 1/1.5-inch sensor and an f/2.8 aperture.
• Significant improvement in image quality, especially in low light.

Main Camera

• Features a new 4/3 sensor with an updated optical design.
• Max aperture increased from f/2.8 to f/2.5 for cleaner low-light footage.
• Supports 6K/60fps HDR video, with downsampling for 4K maintaining high image quality.

Video Recording

• Capable of recording in 6K/60fps and 4K/120fps.
• Incorporates a new ALL-I compressed H.264 codec as a ProRes replacement, supporting 10-bit 4:2:2 color depth and sampling.

Controller

• Redesigned to include a foldable screen that starts automatically.
• No more need for screw-in joysticks.
• New dial included for easier navigation, although more dials are desired for practicality.
• Offers a 7-inch, super sharp and bright display.
• Incorporates O4+ transmission system with claimed 30 km range.
• Upgraded controller can serve as a built-in microphone for the drone.

Battery and Storage

• The Mavic 4 Pro has a flight time of up to 51 minutes with a new larger battery.
• The charging hub charges three batteries simultaneously in 90 minutes, can be powered by the new DJI outdoor power station, Power 1000 V2.

Conclusion

• Design: Advanced yet controversial design changes, including an improved gimbal and sensor modules for better image quality.
• Performance: Achieves notable improvements with telephoto lens quality and a larger aperture main camera.
• Controller: Innovatively designed but would benefit from additional practicality features.
• Battery and Storage: Impressive flight time with fast-charging capabilities and increased internal storage.

The Mavic 4 Pro stands out as a significant upgrade in portable drone technology and innovation in 2025. Though having certain drawbacks, its unique features continue to push the capabilities of drone imaging forward, proving once again DJI's commitment to innovation despite some cosmetic and practical challenges.

Feel free to share this review with your friends. We have provided additional footage on our website for viewing and analysis. Until next time!