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DJI Matrice 5T vs DJI Matrice 4T vs DJI Matrice 4TD: Which is best?
Compare three DJI thermal drones: the Matrice 5T, Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD, including thermal imaging, flight time, IP rating, portability and dock use, to find the right one for you.
The DJI Matrice 5T, DJI Matrice 4T and DJI Matrice 4TD are all DJI enterprise thermal drones, but each suits a different way of working. The Matrice 5T is foldable and IP55-rated, the Matrice 4T is foldable with no IP rating, and the Matrice 4TD is IP55-rated with fixed arms and can fly standalone or from DJI Dock 3. The Matrice 5T also steps up to native 1280 × 1024 thermal imaging, 176× hybrid zoom, built-in LiDAR and mmWave radar, and up to 59 minutes of flight time.
Below, we compare all three section by section, with an at-a-glance table followed by in-depth spec tables for each area.
Key takeaways: DJI Matrice 5T vs DJI Matrice 4T vs DJI Matrice 4TD
Design: The Matrice 5T and Matrice 4T have foldable arms for transport. The Matrice 4TD has fixed arms.
Weather protection: The Matrice 5T and Matrice 4TD are IP55-rated and operate from -20°C to 50°C. The Matrice 4T has no IP rating and operates from -10°C to 40°C.
Deployment: The Matrice 5T and Matrice 4T are piloted drones. The Matrice 4TD can be flown standalone with the DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise, and is dock-ready for DJI Dock 3.
Thermal: Native 1280 × 1024 on the Matrice 5T, four times the pixel count of the 640 × 512 sensor on the Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD.
Cameras and zoom: Three 50 MP cameras with full-colour night vision and 176× hybrid zoom on the Matrice 5T, compared with 48 MP cameras and 112× on the Matrice 4 models.
Laser rangefinder: 3000 m on the Matrice 5T, compared with 1800 m.
Flight time: Up to 59 minutes on the Matrice 5T, 54 minutes on the Matrice 4TD and 49 minutes on the Matrice 4T (standard propellers).
Obstacle sensing: LiDAR and mmWave radar are standard on the Matrice 5T, so it can fly with its speaker and spotlight fitted. On the Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD, they are available through an optional module, which can't be used alongside a speaker or spotlight due to maximum take-off weight.
Transmission: Up to 20 km (CE) on the Matrice 5T, with dual built-in 4G, compared with 12 km (CE) on the Matrice 4 models.
Controller: The Matrice 5T comes with the new DJI RC Plus 3 Enterprise. The Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD use the DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise.
DJI Matrice 5T vs Matrice 4T vs Matrice 4TD: Key specs at a glance
Specification | DJI Matrice 5T | DJI Matrice 4T | DJI Matrice 4TD |
|---|---|---|---|
Design | Foldable | Foldable | Fixed arms |
Operation | Piloted (RC Plus 3) | Piloted (RC Plus 2) | Standalone (RC Plus 2) or DJI Dock 3 |
Takeoff weight | 2239 g | 1219 g | 1850 g |
IP rating | IP55 | None | IP55 |
Operating temperature | -20°C to 50°C | -10°C to 40°C | -20°C to 50°C |
Max flight time | 59 min | 49 min | 54 min |
Max speed | 23 m/s | 21 m/s | 21 m/s (Sport); 15 m/s with dock |
Native thermal resolution | 1280 × 1024 | 640 × 512 | 640 × 512 |
Visual cameras | 3 × 50 MP | 3 × 48 MP | 3 × 48 MP |
Max hybrid zoom | 176× | 112× | 112× |
Laser rangefinder | 3000 m | 1800 m | 1800 m |
LiDAR and mmWave radar | Built in | Optional module | Optional module |
Transmission (CE) | O4 Enterprise Enhanced, 20 km | O4 Enterprise, 12 km | O4+ Enterprise, 12 km |
4G | Dual built-in | Cellular Dongle 2 (sold separately) | Cellular Dongle 2 (sold separately) |
Battery | 215.2 Wh | 99.5 Wh | 149.9 Wh |
Onboard AI | 20+ target types | People, vehicles, vessels | People, vehicles, vessels |
Design and deployment
This is the first point to settle, because each aircraft is built around a different way of working.
The Matrice 5T and Matrice 4T are both foldable, piloted drones. Crews can carry them to site in a case, unfold them and get flying quickly. The Matrice 5T comes with the new DJI RC Plus 3 Enterprise, while the Matrice 4T uses the DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise. The Matrice 5T is the larger and heavier of the two, but it carries twice the payload and has three accessory ports.
The Matrice 4TD has fixed arms. It can be flown standalone with the DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise, as part of the DJI Matrice 4TD Standalone Combo, or deployed from DJI Dock 3 for automated missions managed remotely through DJI FlightHub 2.
Design and size | Matrice 5T | Matrice 4T | Matrice 4TD |
|---|---|---|---|
Folded (L × W × H) | 335 × 155 × 203 mm | 260.6 × 113.7 × 138.4 mm | Does not fold |
Unfolded (L × W × H) | 408 × 507 × 191 mm | 307.0 × 387.5 × 149.5 mm | 377.7 × 416.2 × 212.5 mm |
Takeoff weight | 2239 g | 1219 g | 1850 g |
Max takeoff weight | 2639 g | 1420 g | 2090 g |
Max payload | 400 g | 200 g | Not specified |
Diagonal wheelbase | 572 mm | 438.8 mm | 498.5 mm |
Accessory ports | 3 × E-Port V3 | E-Port + E-Port Lite | E-Port + E-Port Lite |
Dock compatibility | No | No | DJI Dock 3 |
In practice:
Choose the Matrice 5T if you want a portable thermal drone with the latest imaging, built-in obstacle sensing and weather protection.
Choose the Matrice 4T if you want a proven, compact and lightweight thermal drone and your missions can be planned around the weather, as it has no IP rating.
Choose the Matrice 4TD if you want one weather-resistant aircraft for both manual and docked missions.
New to the Matrice 5T? Read our DJI Matrice 5T launch guide. Considering a docked system with the latest-generation aircraft? See our DJI Matrice 5T vs DJI Matrice 5TD guide and our DJI Matrice 5TD vs DJI Matrice 4TD guide.
Weather protection and operating conditions
The Matrice 5T and Matrice 4TD are both IP55-rated, meaning they are protected against dust and water jets, and both operate from -20°C to 50°C. Both batteries also support low-temperature self-heating.
Protection | Matrice 5T | Matrice 4T | Matrice 4TD |
|---|---|---|---|
IP rating | IP55 (rain up to 100 mm/24 h) | None | IP55 |
Operating temperature | -20°C to 50°C | -10°C to 40°C | -20°C to 50°C |
Max wind resistance | 12 m/s | 12 m/s | 12 m/s |
Max takeoff altitude | 7000 m | 6000 m | 6500 m |
Battery self-heating | Yes | No | Yes |
Anti-ice propellers | Available separately | No | Standard |
The Matrice 4T has no IP rating and a narrower -10°C to 40°C range. It is still a highly capable inspection and public safety drone, but it is less suited to flying in rain or in very cold or hot conditions.
For UK operators, whose missions can't always wait for a dry day, this is one of the biggest practical differences between the three. To find out more, read our guide to drone IP ratings.
Thermal camera
The Matrice 5T's native 1280 × 1024 thermal camera has four times the pixel count of the 640 × 512 sensor on the Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD. Smaller 8 μm pixels and a wider f/0.85 aperture give clearer heat signatures, and its UHR Infrared Image mode doubles the output again to 2560 × 2048. The Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD share the same thermal camera.
Thermal camera | Matrice 5T | Matrice 4T | Matrice 4TD |
|---|---|---|---|
Sensor | Uncooled VOx | Uncooled VOx | Uncooled VOx |
Native resolution | 1280 × 1024 | 640 × 512 | 640 × 512 |
UHR / Super Resolution | 2560 × 2048 | 1280 × 1024 | 1280 × 1024 |
Pixel pitch | 8 μm | 12 μm | 12 μm |
Lens | DFOV 45°, 53 mm equiv., f/0.85 | DFOV 45°, 53 mm equiv., f/1.0 | DFOV 45°, 53 mm equiv., f/1.0 |
Focus range | 10 m to ∞ | 5 m to ∞ | 5 m to ∞ |
Sensitivity (NETD) | ≤50 mK | ≤50 mK | ≤50 mK |
Digital zoom | 32× | 28× | 28× |
Temperature range (High Gain) | -20°C to 150°C | -20°C to 150°C | -40°C to 150°C |
Temperature range (Low Gain) | 0°C to 550°C | 0°C to 550°C | 0°C to 500°C |
Measurement accuracy | ±2°C or ±2% (High Gain) | ±2°C or ±2% (High Gain) | ±2°C or ±2% (High Gain) |
Video | Up to 2560 × 2048 @ 30fps | Up to 1280 × 1024 @ 30fps | Up to 1280 × 1024 @ 30fps |
Photo format | JPEG, R-JPEG, DLT-664 | JPEG, R-JPEG | JPEG, R-JPEG |
Fusion Mode: All three offer thermal-visible fusion. The Matrice 5T adds edge enhancement for clearer outlines.
Temperature calibration: New on the Matrice 5T, to help maintain measurement accuracy over time.
Close-range thermal: The Matrice 5T's thermal focus starts at 10 m, compared with 5 m on the Matrice 4 models, so very close subjects may appear soft.
The Matrice 5T's extra thermal detail matters most for search and rescue, where it helps pick out people among trees and at greater distances, and for utilities and infrastructure, where it helps spot small or distant temperature anomalies from a safe stand-off.
Visual cameras, night vision and laser rangefinder
All three carry wide, medium tele and tele cameras. The Matrice 5T upgrades all three to 50 MP, with a larger 1/0.98-inch wide sensor and a 252 mm RYYB tele that captures 30% more light. It also extends full-colour night vision to all three cameras, in light as low as 0.01 lux. The Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD share the same camera system.
Visual cameras | Matrice 5T | Matrice 4T | Matrice 4TD |
|---|---|---|---|
Wide camera | 1/0.98-inch, 50 MP, 23.5 mm, f/1.8 | 1/1.3-inch, 48 MP, 24 mm, f/1.7 | 1/1.3-inch, 48 MP, 24 mm, f/1.7 |
Medium tele camera | 1/1.28-inch, 50 MP, 70 mm, f/2.88 | 1/1.3-inch, 48 MP, 70 mm, f/2.8 | 1/1.3-inch, 48 MP, 70 mm, f/2.8 |
Tele camera | 1/1.5-inch RYYB, 50 MP, 252 mm, f/2.8 | 1/1.5-inch, 48 MP, 168 mm, f/2.8 | 1/1.5-inch, 48 MP, 168 mm, f/2.8 |
Hybrid zoom | 176× | 112× | 112× |
Night Scene ISO (max) | 1,638,400 (all three cameras) | 409,600 (wide, mid tele); 819,200 (tele) | 409,600 (wide, mid tele); 819,200 (tele) |
Full-colour night vision | Wide, medium tele and tele | Night Scene mode | Night Scene mode |
NIR auxiliary light | Yes, up to 100 m | Yes | Yes |
Min photo interval | 0.5 s | 0.7 s | 0.7 s |
Photo format | JPEG / DNG (RAW) | JPEG | JPEG |
Video | 4K/30fps, H.265 | 4K/30fps, H.264/H.265 | 4K/30fps, H.264/H.265 |
Gimbal tilt (controllable) | -90° to +90° | -90° to +70° | -90° to +90° |
Laser rangefinder | 3000 m (1200 m oblique) | 1800 m (600 m oblique) | 1800 m (600 m oblique) |
Longer reach: The Matrice 5T's 252 mm tele is 50% longer than the 168 mm tele on the Matrice 4 models. DJI says it can read licence plates from 400 m, and in good light it switches to an 8K mode at 26× and above.
Clearer night imagery: The Matrice 5T has 16 times the NPU power of the Matrice 4 Series for night video processing. All three models offer monochrome night vision on the tele camera, supported by an NIR auxiliary light.
Laser markers: The Matrice 5T's rangefinder reaches 3000 m, and lets you mark and share target positions and measure lines and areas.
Multi-camera views: The Matrice 5T offers up to 11 split-screen layouts and can save up to four images per capture.
As the Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD share the same imaging, choosing between those two comes down to design, weather protection and deployment rather than cameras.
Flight performance, battery and charging
The Matrice 5T has the longest flight time and highest top speed of the three, powered by a 215.2 Wh battery that has more than twice the energy of the Matrice 4T's.
Flight and battery | Matrice 5T | Matrice 4T | Matrice 4TD |
|---|---|---|---|
Max flight time | 59 min | 49 min (46 min low-noise propellers) | 54 min |
Max hover time | 54 min | 42 min | 47 min |
Max flight distance | 45 km | 35 km | 43 km |
Max horizontal speed | 23 m/s | 21 m/s | 21 m/s (Sport); 15 m/s (Normal, docked) |
Max ascent speed with accessories | 10 m/s | 6 m/s | Not specified |
Battery | 10073 mAh, 215.2 Wh, 6S, 768 g | 6741 mAh, 99.5 Wh, 4S, 401 g | 6768 mAh, 149.9 Wh, 6S, 640 g |
Battery cycle count | 200 | 200 | 400 |
Charging hub | 515 W, 3 batteries (included) | 100 W, 4 batteries | 240 W, 3 batteries |
Charging time (10% to 95%) | Around 31 min | Not specified | Not specified |
On the Matrice 4TD, 21 m/s applies in Sport mode. When it is used with a dock, only Normal mode is supported, which limits it to 15 m/s. The Matrice 5T also keeps its full 10 m/s ascent speed with its speaker and spotlight fitted, and can take off again in as little as 10 seconds after a battery change.
Transmission and connectivity
For UK operators, the CE figure is the one that matters. Here, the Matrice 5T reaches up to 20 km, compared with 12 km on both Matrice 4 models. All figures are maximum distances in unobstructed, interference-free conditions.
Transmission | Matrice 5T | Matrice 4T | Matrice 4TD |
|---|---|---|---|
System | O4 Enterprise Enhanced | O4 Enterprise | O4+ Enterprise |
Max range (CE) | 20 km | 12 km | 12 km |
Max range (FCC / IC) | 40 km (IC) | 25 km (FCC) | 25 km (FCC) |
Live view | Three-channel 1080p/30fps | 1080p/30fps | 1080p/30fps |
Antennas | 6 SDR, 2 Sub2G, 4 × 4G; 2T4R | 8 antennas, 2T4R | 8 antennas, 2T4R |
4G | Two built-in Cellular Dongle 2 modules (eSIM + nano-SIM) | Cellular Dongle 2 (sold separately) | Cellular Dongle 2 (sold separately) |
Relay | Onboard; single-hop, dual-hop and two-controller modes | No | Airborne relay |
Latency | 130 ms | 130 ms | Approx. 100 ms (to dock) |
The Matrice 5T also adds adaptive multi-band switching for interference resistance. Its dual built-in 4G modules act as mutual backups, so there's no external dongle to buy. Its relay modes are unavailable in countries or regions without 5 GHz frequency support.
Obstacle sensing and airspace awareness
The Matrice 5T has LiDAR and mmWave radar built in for wire-level obstacle sensing, working alongside a full-colour omnidirectional vision system. The Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD use omnidirectional binocular vision, supplemented by a downward 3D infrared sensor.
Sensing and safety | Matrice 5T | Matrice 4T | Matrice 4TD |
|---|---|---|---|
Vision system | Six-directional fisheye, full colour | Omnidirectional binocular | Omnidirectional binocular |
LiDAR | Built in; 360° rotating, 110 m range | Optional module | Optional module |
mmWave radar | Built in; forward, upward and downward | Optional module | Optional module |
Downward sensor | ToF infrared | 3D infrared | 3D infrared |
Forward obstacle avoidance speed | Up to 21 m/s | Up to 21 m/s | Up to 15 m/s |
Wire sensing | 21.6 mm lines at up to 21 m/s; 12 mm lines at up to 15 m/s | With optional module | With optional module |
Assist view | Full colour | Monochrome | Monochrome |
ADS-B receiver | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Remote ID receiver | Yes (detects nearby DJI drones) | No | No |
The Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD can both be fitted with the DJI Matrice 4 Obstacle Sensing Module, which adds LiDAR and mmWave radar, but mounting it reduces flight time. On the Matrice 4T, the module is fitted using an adapter bracket.
It also affects how you can equip each aircraft. Because the Matrice 5T's LiDAR and mmWave radar are built in, it can fly with its speaker and spotlight fitted while keeping that sensing.
On the Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD, the Obstacle Sensing Module can't be used alongside the spotlight or speaker, as the combination would exceed the maximum take-off weight. It's one or the other. It's also worth highlighting that, while the obstacle sensing module is compatible with the Matrice 4T, it does take the drone over its maximum take-off weight.
For powerline, substation and low-light work, having this sensing built in, with no separate module to fit, is a key advantage of the Matrice 5T. Its sensor-fusion positioning also helps keep missions running where GNSS is weak, such as under bridges.
Software, AI and workflows
Software and AI | Matrice 5T | Matrice 4T | Matrice 4TD |
|---|---|---|---|
Visible-light AI detection | People and clothing colours, vehicle and vessel types, animals, smoke and fire | People, vehicles, vessels | People, vehicles, vessels |
Thermal AI detection | People, vehicles, vessels, moving heat sources | People, vehicles, vessels | People, vehicles, vessels |
Third-party AI algorithms | Yes, 10 TOPS onboard | Yes | Yes |
DJI Manifold 3 | Not currently supported | Supported | Supported |
In-flight modelling | Yes, on the controller | No | No |
Automated power line inspection | Yes | No | No |
Boat Launch | Yes | No | No |
DJI FlightHub 2 | Yes | Yes | Yes, including docked missions |
SDK support | PSDK, MSDK, Cloud API | PSDK, MSDK, Cloud API | PSDK, MSDK, Cloud API |
The Matrice 5T also supports Rolling Shutter correction, TimeSync 2.0 and close-range photogrammetry for accurate on-site modelling, plus 2D thermal mapping. DJI notes that automated power line inspection and Boat Launch are subject to usage conditions.
The Matrice 4TD's strength is automation. Paired with DJI Dock 3 and FlightHub 2, it can carry out scheduled and on-demand missions managed remotely, while still being available for manual flights when needed.
Remote controllers
The Matrice 5T comes with the new DJI RC Plus 3 Enterprise, with a bigger, brighter screen, built-in 4G and around 6 hours of runtime. The Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD use the DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise. The two controllers are not interchangeable: the RC Plus 3 Enterprise does not support the Matrice 4 Series or Matrice 4D Series.
Controller | DJI RC Plus 3 Enterprise (Matrice 5T) | DJI RC Plus 2 Enterprise (Matrice 4T / 4TD) |
|---|---|---|
Screen | 7.44-inch, 1920 × 1440, 2000 nits | 7.02-inch, 1920 × 1200, 1400 nits |
Antenna | 4T4R smart antenna array | 2T4R multi-beam |
Internal battery | 99.01 Wh, around 6 hours | 46.8 Wh, around 3.8 hours |
External battery | Not needed | Optional WB37 (3.2 hours) |
4G | Built-in (nano-SIM) | DJI Cellular Dongle 2 |
System / Bluetooth | Android 16 / Bluetooth 5.4 | Android 11 / Bluetooth 5.2 |
Ingress protection | IP54 | IP54 |
Ports | HDMI 1.4, SD, nano-SIM, USB-C, E-Port | HDMI 1.4, SD, USB-C, USB-A |
Weight | 1240 g | 1150 g |
Speaker, spotlight and accessories
The Matrice 5T has its own new DJI AS2 Speaker and DJI AL2 Spotlight, both more powerful than the DJI AS1 Speaker and DJI AL1 Spotlight used on the Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD. Accessories are not cross-compatible between the two series.
Speaker | DJI AS2 (Matrice 5T) | DJI AS1 (Matrice 4T / 4TD) |
|---|---|---|
Max power | 35 W | 15 W |
Max volume | 120 dB at 1 m | 114 dB at 1 m |
Broadcast range | 400 m | 300 m |
Strobe lights | Red, blue, green, white, yellow | None |
IP rating | IP55 | Not specified |
Spotlight | DJI AL2 (Matrice 5T) | DJI AL1 (Matrice 4T / 4TD) |
|---|---|---|
Max power | 60 W | 32 W |
Illuminance at 100 m | Spot: 10 lux; Flood: 2.5 lux | 4.3 lux |
Illuminated area at 100 m | Spot: 500 m²; Flood: 1500 m² | 1300 m² (normal); 2200 m² (wide) |
Gimbal tilt | -90° to +90° (lights directly overhead) | -90° to +35° |
IP rating | IP55 | Not specified |
Fit with LiDAR / mmWave sensing | Yes, speaker and spotlight together | No, one or the other |
Because its sensing is built in, the Matrice 5T can carry both its speaker and spotlight with no trade-off, and keeps its full 10 m/s ascent speed with them fitted. On the Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD, operators have to choose between the speaker or spotlight and the LiDAR/mmWave Obstacle Sensing Module.
DJI Matrice 5T vs DJI Matrice 4T vs DJI Matrice 4TD: Which is best for you?
If you need... | Choose | Why |
|---|---|---|
The most thermal detail, zoom and range | Matrice 5T | 1280 × 1024 thermal, 176× hybrid zoom and a 3 km laser rangefinder |
A foldable drone you can fly in rain and harsh conditions | Matrice 5T | Foldable, IP55-rated and operates from -20°C to 50°C |
Built-in LiDAR and mmWave sensing, with speaker and spotlight | Matrice 5T | Sensing is standard, so there's no payload trade-off |
Maritime operations from vessels | Matrice 5T | Boat Launch for stationary or moving vessels |
A proven, compact and lightweight thermal drone for missions planned around the weather | Matrice 4T | Foldable and 1219 g, with the same core imaging as the Matrice 4TD, but no IP rating |
One aircraft for manual and docked flights | Matrice 4TD | Works standalone and with DJI Dock 3, with IP55 protection |
Fully automated operations with the latest-generation dock | Designed for DJI Dock 4 |
How heliguy™ can help
heliguy™ provides end-to-end support for the DJI Matrice 5T, Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD, from choosing the right aircraft to training, deployment and ongoing technical assistance.
UK's only DJI Gold and S-Level Partner: Trusted supply of DJI Enterprise drones, docks and accessories.
Training: CAA-recognised training to get your pilots qualified and mission-ready.
DJI Dock specialists: Deployment consultancy, installation support and accredited Dock technicians for the DJI Dock ecosystem.
UK SORA consultancy: Our in-house regulatory team can help you develop your safety case and application. Find out more.
Ongoing support: Lifetime access to heliguy™'s 35+ in-house team throughout your drone programme.
Summary
The DJI Matrice 5T, Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD are all capable thermal drones, but each suits a different type of operation.
The Matrice 5T combines a foldable design with IP55 protection, and steps up to native 1280 × 1024 thermal, three 50 MP cameras with full-colour night vision, 176× hybrid zoom, a 3 km laser rangefinder, built-in LiDAR and mmWave sensing, and up to 59 minutes of flight time.
The Matrice 4T remains a capable, compact and lightweight thermal drone. With no IP rating, it is best suited to missions that can be planned around the weather. The Matrice 4TD is the choice if you want an IP55-rated aircraft that can fly standalone or from DJI Dock 3.
heliguy™ can help you compare all three aircraft, assess your operational requirements and choose the right solution. Speak to heliguy™ about the DJI Matrice 5T, Matrice 4T and Matrice 4TD.
