Shenzhen-based drone manufacturer DJI has announced the release of its Mini 5 Pro, a compact drone equipped with a 1-inch CMOS sensor, upgraded obstacle detection capabilities, and extended flight time. The Mini 5 Pro is the latest addition to DJI’s Mini series, which targets users seeking professional-grade imaging in a lightweight, portable format.
Imaging and Video Capabilities
The Mini 5 Pro introduces a 50-megapixel 1-inch sensor, marking a first for DJI’s sub-250g drone category. The sensor is designed to improve image quality in low-light conditions, such as urban nightscapes and sunset scenes. A new 48mm Med-Tele mode offers enhanced digital zoom resolution compared to previous models, allowing for greater subject isolation and depth in aerial compositions.
Video recording capabilities include support for 4K resolution at 60 frames per second (fps) in HDR mode, with up to 14 stops of dynamic range. The drone also supports slow-motion recording at 4K/120fps. Color grading options include 10-bit video using H.265 encoding, with a maximum ISO of 12800. In D-Log M and HLG modes, the ISO ceiling is set at 3200.
The gimbal system features 225° roll rotation, enabling dynamic camera movements and true vertical shooting without the need for cropping. Pre-programmed shooting modes include QuickShot Rotate, Timelapse, Spotlight, and Waypoint Flight.
Obstacle Detection and Flight Safety
The Mini 5 Pro incorporates a forward-facing LiDAR system, fisheye lenses on both the front and rear, binocular lenses, and a 3D infrared sensor on the bottom of the aircraft. These components work together to provide omnidirectional obstacle sensing, particularly in low-light environments.
The drone’s return-to-home (RTH) functionality has been enhanced with real-time vision positioning and mapping technologies. When sufficient lighting is available, the Mini 5 Pro can memorize flight paths, allowing for safe takeoff and return even in areas without satellite signal coverage. The device also supports L1 + L5 dual-band GNSS for improved satellite connectivity and positioning accuracy.
Tracking and Automation Features
An upgraded version of DJI’s ActiveTrack 360° system is included, offering customizable tracking modes for various scenarios. The system is designed to detect and adapt to different types of movement, such as walking or cycling, and automatically selects the appropriate tracking mode to optimize framing and stability.
Additional features include MasterShots, QuickShots, Free Panorama, and Off-State QuickTransfer. The drone also includes 42GB of internal storage, a notable increase from previous models.
Availability
As of publication, DJI has not confirmed whether the Mini 5 Pro will be available in all global markets. Previous reports indicate that certain DJI products have faced restrictions in the United States due to regulatory concerns. DJI remains a privately held company and is not publicly traded on any stock exchange.
The Mini 5 Pro. Photo credit: DJI.
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