DJI Mini 5 Pro launches with a 1-inch sensor but skips official US release

DJI has launched the Mini 5 Pro, its latest compact drone, which for the first time in the Mini series includes a 1-inch CMOS sensor for improved image quality, especially in low light.

The new model also introduces forward-facing LiDAR for enhanced obstacle detection at night and supports true vertical video.

However, the company has confirmed it will not be officially sold through its online store in the United States.

The Mini 5 Pro integrates several professional-grade features into a sub-250-gram body, meaning it does not require a permit to fly in many regions. The standout upgrade is the 1-inch, 50-megapixel sensor, a significant improvement over the previous model that allows for cleaner, more detailed images and videos in challenging lighting.

The drone’s video and flight capabilities have been enhanced across the board:

• Video quality: It records up to 4K at 120 frames per second for slow-motion, supports 4K/60fps HDR video with 14 stops of dynamic range, and captures 10-bit D-Log M color for greater flexibility in editing.
• Vertical video: The gimbal rotates 225 degrees to enable true vertical shooting, providing full-sensor quality video formatted for social media platforms without cropping.
• Safety and obstacle avoidance: It is equipped with forward-facing LiDAR and six omnidirectional vision sensors, providing “Nightscape Omnidirectional Obstacle Sensing.” This system allows the drone to detect and avoid obstacles in light as low as 1 lux.
• Subject tracking: The ActiveTrack 360° feature has been upgraded for more stable and responsive tracking of fast-moving subjects like cyclists.
• Flight time: The drone can fly for up to 36 minutes with the standard battery and up to 52 minutes with the optional Intelligent Flight Battery Plus.

While official US pricing is not available due to the limited release, the expected prices for bundles available through third-party resellers are as follows:

• Standard bundle (with DJI RC-N3 controller): $769
• Fly More Combo (with RC-N3 controller): $929
• Fly More Combo (with DJI RC 2 screen controller): $1,039
• Fly More Combo (with RC 2 controller and Battery Plus): $1,109

For comparison, the drone is currently on sale in Europe, with prices starting at €799 for the standard package and reaching €1,129 for the Fly More Combo with the RC 2 screen controller.

DJI has confirmed that the Mini 5 Pro will not be sold directly to customers through its official online store in the United States. This follows the same strategy the company used for the Mavic 4 Pro launch and is likely a response to ongoing geopolitical and trade tensions.

US customers will likely be able to purchase the drone through third-party resellers on platforms like Amazon.

However, this unofficial sales channel may present several drawbacks, including higher prices, limited bundle options, and potential complications with warranty and repair services, which are typically tied to the official region of sale.

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