The DJI Mini SE is now available in the UK.
Designed as an ultra-affordable and lightweight beginner's drone (which could also be used for some commercial jobs, like basic roof inspection), it can capture 12MP images, shoot 2.7K Quad HD videos, and fly for 30 minutes - all within a sub 249g frame. Operators can also utilise a series of smart camera modes and functions.
The Mini SE is a hybrid aircraft, merging aspects of the original Mavic Mini and the Mini 2.
Two versions are available: The Standard Mini SE, priced, £269, and the Mini SE Fly More Combo, at £359. The differences between the two are listed below, but essentially, the Fly More Combo comes with additional accessories, which works out cheaper than buying the various add-ons separately.
| In The Box | Mini SE Standard | Mini SE Fly More Combo |
| Drone | 1 | 1 |
| Remote Controller | 1 | 1 |
| Intelligent Flight Battery | 1 | 3 |
| Spare Propellers (Pair) | 1 | 3 |
| Micro USB Cable | 1 | 1 |
| Communication Cable USB-C | 1 | 1 |
| Gimbal Protector | 1 | 1 |
| RC Cable (Micro USB Connector) | 1 | 1 |
| RC Cable (USB-C Connector) | 1 | 1 |
| RC Cable (Lightning Connector) | 1 | 1 |
| Spare Control Sticks (Pair) | 1 | 1 |
| Spare Screw | 6 | 18 |
| Screwdriver | 1 | 1 |
| Two-way Charging Hub | / | 1 |
| Carrying Bag | / | 1 |
Having been released in 2021, the Mini SE was originally unavailable in the UK. But in January 2022, DJI made the Mini SE available in the UK. And its sub 249g weight means that operators do not need to conduct A2 CofC or GVC drone training. Find out more in our in-depth guide to UK Drone Laws.
Mini SE Vs Mini 2
The Mini SE shares most of its features with the original Mavic Mini, but comes in the Mini 2 frame.
So what exactly does that mean?
One of the biggest differences is that the Mini SE (and the Mavic Mini) captures 2.7K video at 30fps, while the Mini 2 offers a superior 4K at 30fps video.
The Mini 2 also has a longer and more stable connection, thanks to Ocusync 2.0; a feature noticeably absent on the SE, which instead relies on Enhanced WiFi.
However, the Mini SE has an improved wind-speed resistance of 8.5-10m/s (Level 5) compared to the original Mavic Mini (8m/s, Level 4), giving it a bit more stability in the air. The Mini SE's wind-speed resistance is the same as the Mini 2.
But perhaps the most significant factor is the price, with the Mini SE standard package £150 cheaper than the Mini 2 equivalent, while the Mini SE Fly More Combo is £190 cheaper than the Mini 2 Fly More Combo. Incidentally, the Mini SE is also cheaper than the original Mavic Mini.
With all this in mind, the Mini SE is a great beginner's drone and excellent for content creation on the go. It could also be used by some commercial users, for rooftop inspections, for example.
Sure, it isn't quite as powerful as the Mini 2 in some respects, but its significantly cheaper price tag makes the Mini SE a seriously attractive budget drone.
Leave a comment