You’re probably spoiled for choice in the high-end drone market, with literally hundreds of options to pick from. But, let’s cut to the chase – if you’re considering the crème de la crème, you’ve likely narrowed it down to the DJI Phantom 3 and the 3D Robotics Solo. These two powerhouses have been vying for the top spot for years, and for good reason. With their impressive specs and advanced features, it’s no wonder you’re having a hard time deciding between them. But what really sets them apart, and which one is worth the investment – let’s take a closer look.
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Key Takeaways
- DJI Phantom 3 has a plastic body, while 3D Robotics Solo features premium carbon fiber components.
- The Solo’s camera is more modular, allowing different cameras or accessories, unlike the Phantom 3.
- DJI Phantom 3 has a longer battery life, with up to 23 minutes of flight time, compared to Solo’s 20 minutes.
- 3D Robotics Solo’s controller is more customizable, with wider third-party accessory availability.
- DJI Phantom 3 handles wind resistance better due to its aerodynamic design and weight distribution.
Design and Build Quality
When it comes to design and build quality, both the DJI Phantom 3 and the 3D Robotics Solo are built to last, with each boasting a sturdy construction that can withstand the rigors of flight.
You’ll notice that the DJI Phantom 3 features a mainly plastic body, while the 3D Robotics Solo has a more premium feel with its carbon fiber components.
This difference in material selection not only affects the weight of the drones but also their overall aesthetic appeal. The DJI Phantom 3’s plastic body is durable and resistant to damage, but it may lack the sleekness of the 3D Robotics Solo’s carbon fiber design.
On the other hand, the 3D Robotics Solo’s use of carbon fiber gives it a more premium look and feel, but it may also make it more prone to damage from scratches or cracks.
In terms of aesthetic appeal, both drones have a unique look that sets them apart from one another.
The DJI Phantom 3 has a more angular, futuristic design, while the 3D Robotics Solo has a more streamlined, aerodynamic look.
Key Features and Specifications
The DJI Phantom 3 and 3D Robotics Solo both pack impressive specs, so let’s plunge into the key features and specifications that set these drones apart.
You’ll notice that the DJI Phantom 3 has a slightly longer battery life, with up to 23 minutes of flight time, while the 3D Robotics Solo offers around 20 minutes.
Both drones are equipped with high-quality cameras, but the Solo’s is more modular, allowing you to attach different cameras or accessories.
In terms of controller compatibility, the DJI Phantom 3 uses a proprietary controller, while the Solo uses a GoPro-compatible controller or a tablet/smartphone app.
The Solo’s controller is more customizable, with a wider range of third-party accessories available.
The Phantom 3, on the other hand, has a more streamlined and user-friendly interface.
Both drones support Wi-Fi connectivity and have a range of around 1 mile.
When it comes to processing power, the Phantom 3 uses a quad-core processor, while the Solo uses a dual-core processor.
These differences in specs may influence your decision, depending on your specific needs and preferences.
Flight Performance Comparison
Flying these drones reveals distinct differences in their flight performance.
The DJI Phantom 3 and the 3D Robotics Solo have varying levels of stability and maneuverability. You’ll notice that the Phantom 3 handles wind resistance better due to its more aerodynamic design and weight distribution.
It maintains a steady altitude and position even in moderate winds, making it suitable for outdoor flights.
In contrast, the Solo is more sensitive to wind resistance and requires more manual adjustments to stay on course.
However, it excels with respect to agility and responsiveness, making it a great choice for acrobatic flights.
Both drones offer multiple flight modes, including Manual, Loiter, and Return-to-Home.
The Phantom 3 also features a Point-of-Interest mode, which allows you to orbit a specific location.
The Solo’s Flight modes are more geared towards professional pilots, with features like Follow and Orbit.
Camera and Video Capabilities
Looking into the camera and video capabilities of these drones, you’ll find distinct differences in their imaging systems.
The DJI Phantom 3 features a 12.4 megapixel camera with a 1/2.3-inch sensor size. This sensor is relatively small compared to traditional cameras, but it still delivers impressive results.
The Phantom 3’s camera has a 20mm lens with a 94-degree field of view, allowing for a wide-angle capture of your surroundings.
On the other hand, the 3D Robotics Solo can support up to a 20 megapixel camera, but you’ll need to purchase a compatible GoPro camera separately.
The sensor size of the GoPro camera is also 1/2.3-inch, similar to the Phantom 3. However, the Solo’s camera system has the advantage of using a higher-quality lens, which can provide sharper images and better video quality.
The Solo’s camera also has a wider field of view, up to 120 degrees, depending on the camera model used.
In terms of video recording, both drones can capture high-definition video at up to 4K resolution.
However, the Phantom 3 has a higher frame rate of up to 60fps, while the Solo’s frame rate is limited to 30fps.
Price and Value Analysis
When evaluating a drone’s overall value, you’ll likely consider its price alongside its features and performance.
The DJI Phantom 3 and 3D Robotics Solo are two high-end drones with distinct price points. The Phantom 3 typically starts at around $799 for the standard model, while the Solo’s base price is $999.
Considering the cost benefit, the Phantom 3’s lower price might be more appealing to those with budget constraints.
However, the Solo’s higher price is justified by its advanced features, such as the ability to control the camera and drone separately and the option to upgrade with accessories. The Solo’s open-source design also allows for greater customization, which may be valuable for experienced users.
Ultimately, the value of each drone depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you prioritize affordability and a robust feature set, the Phantom 3 might be the better choice. However, if you’re willing to invest in a more versatile and customizable drone, the Solo’s higher price might be justified.
Weighing the costs and benefits of each option will help you determine which drone provides the best value for your money.
FAQs: DJI Phantom 3 Vs 3D Robotics Solo
Can I Use DJI Phantom 3 With Third-Party Controllers?
You can explore custom options for the DJI Phantom 3 by checking its remote compatibility with third-party controllers, but be cautious of potential compatibility issues and verify the new controller supports all your drone’s features.
Is 3D Robotics Solo Compatible With Windows Tablets?
You’ll find that the 3D Robotics Solo is compatible with tablets running Android, but its compatibility with Windows tablets is limited due to its reliance on the Android-based Solo app within the Windows ecosystem.
Can I Upgrade DJI Phantom 3’s Firmware Myself?
You’re the captain of your drone’s ship, steering through treacherous waters of firmware updates. Updating the DJI Phantom 3’s firmware yourself poses risks, but brings benefits like improved stability and new features, making it a worthwhile voyage.
Is a Hardware Kit Available for Solo Customization?
You’re looking for a hardware kit to customize your Solo. 3D Robotics offers various upgrade options for Custom Flight, and the Solo Mods community provides a range of DIY hardware kits for advanced customization.
Are Spare Parts Easily Available for Both Drones?
When your drone needs repairs, you’ll find spare parts easily at repair shops and online marketplaces for both DJI Phantom 3 and 3D Robotics Solo, but availability and pricing might vary substantially between the two models.
Conclusion
You’ve made it to the end of this epic battle of drones. Congratulations, you’re now an expert on the DJI Phantom 3 and 3D Robotics Solo. But let’s be real, you probably still can’t decide which one to buy. In that case, flip a coin – heads for the Phantom 3’s affordable price, tails for the Solo’s upgrade-happy modular design. Or, you know, actually read the article again and make an informed decision.
