TechTalk

DJI Neo a fantastic deal at $199

Okay, let’s take a closer look at the DJI Neo, a drone that’s generated a fair amount of discussion, particularly among those looking to enter the exciting world of FPV (First Person View) flying. I’ve spent a good amount of time putting the Neo through its paces, and here’s my professional assessment.

The DJI Neo is clearly aimed at beginners, and in that regard, it largely succeeds. It’s a user-friendly package designed to ease pilots into the complexities of FPV flight without overwhelming them. Think of it as a well-designed on-ramp to a sometimes intimidating hobby.

What DJI Got Right:

  • Effortless Flight Experience: The Neo’s flight performance is remarkably stable and forgiving. It’s clear that DJI prioritized ease of use, and they’ve nailed it. Even those with no prior FPV experience will find themselves comfortable and confident behind the controls in very little time. The drone practically flies itself, making it ideal for learning the fundamentals.
  • Respectable Battery Life: Battery life is a crucial factor in any drone, and the Neo delivers a surprisingly decent flight time for its size and class. While you won’t be breaking any endurance records, you’ll get enough time in the air to enjoy a satisfying flying session without constantly needing to swap batteries.
  • Durability: Let’s face it, crashes are an inevitable part of learning to fly FPV. Fortunately, the Neo is built to withstand the bumps and bruises that come with the territory. Its robust construction inspires confidence and allows pilots to push their boundaries without constantly fearing a catastrophic crash. It’s a tough little drone.
  • A Welcoming Entry Point: For people considering the dive into FPV, the DJI Neo removes many of the initial hurdles. The intuitive controls, stable flight, and durable design make it a less intimidating option compared to building a custom drone or learning on a more advanced model.

Where DJI Could Improve:

  • Restrictive Geofencing (Even Indoors): This is the Neo’s biggest drawback. While geofencing is understandable for safety reasons in certain areas, the implementation here feels overly aggressive. The drone is geofenced even indoors which is both frustrating and unnecessary. This significantly limits the user’s freedom and can hinder the learning process, particularly for those flying in indoor environments. It’s a major impediment to the overall user experience.

The DJI Neo is a solid entry-level FPV drone that excels in its ease of use, durability, and decent battery life. It’s a great option for beginners looking to get their feet wet in the FPV world. However, the overly restrictive geofencing, particularly indoors, is a significant downside that potential buyers should be aware of. It limits the drone’s versatility and can be a source of frustration, even for novice pilots. While a good drone, this restriction will stop some users from ever considering it.

– Aaron D.

DJI Neo – Amazon US