Phantom 4 is DJI's latest and most advanced drone. It is designed for aerial photography and video, which can then be processed using the manufacturer's own software. The device doesn't just have a reliable camera, it comes with smart software that allows it to avoid obstacles, track people and objects on the ground, automatically return to the starting point, and more. Phantom quadcopter reviews call the ideal choice for those who need a high-tech and high-quality drone.
Specifications
The Phantom 4 has features that showcase the quality of its camera and the level of intelligence in flight. The device offers experienced pilots more freedom than others. Testing a drone is the best way to test its flight performance, and the parameters below are just a general idea of the drone's capabilities.
- Stabilization:3-axis.
- Battery: LiPo 4S 5350mAh 15.2V.
- Transmitter frequency: 2, 4-2, 483 GHz.
- Camera: 4K UHD resolution 12.4 MP.
- Aperture: f/2.8
- Resolution: 4000 x 3000 pixels.
- Maximum range: 3.2km (CE), 5km (FCC).
- Maximum distance: about 1.5 km.
- Maximum flight altitude: 6000 m.
- Maximum speed: 20 m/s.
- Flight duration: 28 minutes
- Obstacle detection distance: 0.1-15m.
- Diagonal size: 350mm.
- Weight: 1380g
- Accessories: battery, extra propellers, remote control, charger, case.
Flight modes
"Phantom-4" has five modes that affect its behavior in the air. The user should choose the one that best suits the specific conditions.
- Positioning mode. The Phantom 4 quadcopter uses satellites and a camera to determine its location and follows the commands of the remote control.
- TapFly - tap the screen to show the drone a new flight destination.
- Active Track. In this mode, the quadcopter follows a person or a specified object. He is able to do this without GPS, visually determining the position of the target and keeping it within sight.
- Smart flight - a mode with a dual satellite and visual positioning system. In this case, the drone automatically bypassesobstacles.
- In Sport Mode, the Phantom 4 can reach speeds of up to 20 m/s (72 km/h) without compromising its satellite and visual positioning.
Smart flight is much more than the ability to maintain position in space. This system includes the components that will be discussed below.
Satellite and visual positioning
Phantom-4 quadrocopter supports two positioning systems. The device uses satellites to determine its place in space, and also visually orients itself to what is in front of it.
The Vision Positioning System deserves special mention because of its ability to keep the vehicle on track, even without the help of GPS and GLONASS. In addition to this, a vertical accuracy of 0.1 m and a horizontal accuracy of 0.3 m is achieved, which allows you to bring the Phantotm 4 quadcopter exactly to the specified location. In addition, it allows the drone to brake hard, return to the specified location after a forced deviation, and hover immediately after releasing the joystick. All these features make this system one of the most important safety features of the Phantom 4.
Automatic takeoff and return powered by advanced GPS technology. This makes the drone very easy to fly and hard to lose.
Perhaps the most striking feature of the Phantom 4 is its ability to see obstacles in its path and avoid them. This feature ensures a safe flight,even in the event of pilot error or unexpected obstacles. This is achieved thanks to the sensors on the front of the drone and firmware. Operates at distances from 0.7 to 15 m. Supports TapFly mode, which allows you to send the drone in any direction with one touch of the screen, without worrying about obstacles in its path. This reduces the number of accidents in the air.
Camera
The Phantom 4 is equipped with a high quality aerial photography and video camera. The ability of the drone to hover in one place plus the presence of a stabilization system means that it allows you to take clear shots. The camera has a resolution of 12.4 megapixels, a shutter speed of 8-1/8000s, and an aperture of f/2.8.
There are 5 shooting modes: single and burst photos, automatic exposure bracketing, EV shift, interval and HDR. According to user reviews, although the camera does not exceed their expectations, it provides shooting quality that is worth the money invested. The drone is capable of capturing breathtaking 4K ultra-high-definition video at 30fps and HD up to 60fps.
According to the owners, the footage is easy to edit, and they are pleased with the abundance of customization options. This is a significant improvement over the previous models. For example, the characteristics of the Phantom 2 quadcopter provided the ability to shoot photos at a resolution of 14 megapixels and HD video 1080p at a frequency of 30 fps. Post-processing includes choosing from a variety of color profiles, as well as adding music and text.
Stability
The Phantom 4 quadcopter is built for high stability. Therefore, it is less prone to accidents and allows better video and photo shooting. This is partly provided by a three-axis gimbal suspension. For the Phantom 4 quadcopter, it has undergone a complete redesign. Also, stability is achieved by a more aerodynamic design of the drone. Finally, the quadcopter hangs perfectly in one place. This combination means long-term operation of the device and high quality of the footage.
Working time
The Phantom 4 sets itself apart from the competition in its ability to fly long distances. Most drones can stay in the air for several minutes, and this model stretches the pilot's pleasure, according to the manufacturer, up to 28 minutes. According to user reviews, this is not entirely true. When the battery charge drops to 10% of its maximum, the quadcopter goes into emergency mode and lands as quickly as possible. Therefore, the real flight time is reduced to 23 minutes, which still exceeds the capabilities of most other drones. For maximum performance, please purchase additional batteries for $150 each.
Verdict
Phantom quadcopter is praised by users - its characteristics correspond to the declared ones, videos and photos of high quality, its control is easy and enjoyable, the speed is high, and the design is solid. Causes criticismlong preparation for the flight - 4-hour charging of the batteries of the remote control and the drone. Installing propellers, supposedly very simple, is confusing. The software is mediocre in design and lacks instructional material.
