Together with still cameras and audio recorders, video cameras are the most valuable tools for capturing memories and storing them so that they can be shared by others and kept forever. Designers are constantly looking for — though not always finding — ways of making these devices so that they not only can perform their function faster and more efficiently, but also have more individual tasks that they can perform, thus eliminating the need to put down one device and pick up another each time you want to do something different. This article is specifically about the DJI Phantom 3 Professional (Pro) 4K Video Camera — what it can do, the good, the bad, and what we think of it as a whole.
Specifications and Features
The DJI Phantom 3 Professional camera comes in a kit that includes the following additional items:
• a handheld transmitter (radio controller)
• a mobile device holder
• a smart battery charger
• two SanDisk 64 GB Extreme SD cards
• propeller guards
• a Koozam cleaning cloth
The latest updated software comes with the drone, so there is no need to buy anything else. Indoor stable flight has been made possible with the inclusion of a Vision Positioning system — which consists of “an integrated array of optical and ultrasonic sensors” — and a fully-stabilized three-axis gimbal, and there is also Lightbridge digital streaming so that you can view 720p video live. At the same time, the internal micro SD card records full-resolution video. In this way, you can see exactly what the drone sees and make any corrections that you deem necessary. Both i0S and Android devices — though not Windows, as of now — will work with the drone.
The Good
There are so many positive things about the DJI Phantom 3 professional (pro) 4K video camera. Some of the specific pros are:
- There is no need to purchase additional software for the device
- Lightbridge digital streaming for looking at the world through the eyes of the camera
- You can use it with Android and iOS devices
- The low price for the quality of this product
- Return to home function – the drone will follow the GPS signal of its remote control to make it back home.
- The extra batteries that you need are included in the package.
- The camera is simple to fly.
- It is just too much fun! This drone can do many amazing things.
- It gets delivered in a timely fashion.
- It is worth every dollar you spend on it.
The Bad
This camera does have a few weak points, of which some are:
- You will usually have to take off the guards each time you put the drone into a case, so you will have to carry it.
- There have been reports that the calibration is “ultra-sensitive” and may fail to turn on or off when pressed too quickly.
The only truly bad thing about the DJI Phantom 3 professional (pro) 4K video camera is that it will turn off automatically if it is brought within a fifteen-mile radius of the White House. Then, of course, you know how tight presidential security has become in recent years (though the Secret Service has had the responsibility of protecting the president ever since McKinley was assassinated in 1901).
Even on your own property, if you live anywhere in the restricted zone — and this includes the counties of Arlington, Fairfax, Falls Church, Montgomery, Prince Georges and Silver Spring, in addition to the capital itself — you cannot fly this drone. Even worse, the manual does not tell you this.
The Verdict
Overall, this is what you should get if you love flying cameras. It is certainly great fun to send a camera up into the air and see things from a perspective that you couldn’t get otherwise — except from an airplane or helicopter!
Also read our review on the 3D Robotics Iris+ Multicopter!
DJI Phantom 3 Pro
Pros
- Captures high-definition 4K videos
- Supports automated flight modes
- Return to home function
- Android and IOS support
Cons
- Drone case doesn't accommodate guards
- Calibration is way too sensitive
- Needs more than a short press to turn on or off
