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DJI Neo 2 vs DJI Neo
Compare DJI Neo 2 and DJI Neo. Neo 2 has enhanced 4K video, safety, and tracking — making it the ideal mini follow-me drone for vlogging, travel, and some commercial uses.
This in-depth comparison blog highlights the differences between the DJI Neo 2 and DJI Neo;
DJI Neo 2 brings some key upgrades, including enhanced safety, updated camera, and more intelligent features;
Purchase the DJI Neo 2 and DJI Neo from heliguy™.
The DJI Neo 2 builds on the success of the original Neo — DJI’s small, beginner-friendly drone — adding smarter flight systems, enhanced camera performance, and new safety technology.
While both drones share a lightweight, sub-250g design and focus on ease of use, the Neo 2 pushes the concept further with omnidirectional obstacle sensing and forward-facing LiDAR, the new gesture control method, faster, smoother tracking, and beefed-up video performance.
If you’re deciding between the DJI Neo and Neo 2, this in-depth comparison breaks down the key differences in design, performance, and features, and how DJI Neo 2 improves upon its predecessor.
For a detailed review on the DJI Neo 2, read our Top 10 Features of DJI Neo 2 blog.
Purchase the DJI Neo 2 and DJI Neo from heliguy™.
DJI Neo 2 vs DJI Neo: Key takeaways
Neo 2 introduces major upgrades: Omnidirectional obstacle sensing, 4K/100 fps video, and gesture control.
Still lightweight: Both drones are under 250g (Neo 2: 151g | Neo: 135g).
Improved tracking: Neo 2’s ActiveTrack follows subjects faster and smoother (up to 12 m/s), and introduces a new cycling mode.
Better camera: Neo 2 adds a 2-axis gimbal, 4K/60fps video and 4K/100fps slow motion, 2.7K vertical shooting, and enhanced low-light performance. DJI Neo tops out at 4K @ 30fps, and 1080p @ 60fps for vertical cropping.
Safer flight: Both drones have built-in prop guards, but Neo 2 has omnidirectional obstacle sensing and forward-facing LiDAR.
More on-board storage: Neo 2 doubles capacity to 49 GB vs Neo’s 22 GB.
Same ease of use: Both offer quick launches, auto modes, and beginner-friendly handling — but Neo 2 feels more advanced overall, supporting additional control methods and extra intelligent shooting modes.
DJI Neo 2 vs DJI Neo: Key specs
This table provides an overview of the key specifications of the DJI Neo 2 and DJI Neo — highlighting how they compare.
DJI Neo 2 | DJI Neo | |
|---|---|---|
Weight | 151 g (without DJI Neo 2 Digital Transceiver) 160 g (with DJI Neo 2 Digital Transceiver) | 135 g |
Dimensions (L x W x H) | 147 x 171 x 41 mm (with propeller guards and without DJI Neo 2 Digital Transceiver) 167 x 171 x 54 mm (with propeller guards and DJI Neo 2 Digital Transceiver) | 130 x 157 x 48.5 mm |
Maximum flight time | 19 mins | 18 mins |
Sensor | 1/2-inch | 1/2-inch |
Images | 12 MP | 12 MP |
Lens | FOV: 119.8° Aperture: f/2.2 | FOV: 117.6° Aperture: f/2.8 |
Video resolution | 4K @ 60fps / 4K @ 100fps (slow mo) Vertical shooting: 2.7K (9:16) @ 60fps | 4K @ 30fps Vertical shooting: 1080p (9:16) @ 60fps |
Gimbal | 2-axis | 1-axis |
Intelligent shooting modes | SelfieShot, Dolly Zoom, MasterShots, QuickShots | QuickShots |
Control options | Gesture control Voice control Mobile App control RC control Motion control | Voice control Mobile App control RC control Motion control |
Palm take-off and landing | Supported DJI Neo 2 adds the new Return-to-Palm feature for precision landing. | Supported |
FPV capability | Yes | Yes |
Maximum tracking speed | 12 m/s | 8 m/s |
Tracking options | FocusTrack: ActiveTrack (with the new Cycling option), Spotlight, Point of Interest | FocusTrack: Spotlight, Point of Interest |
Obstacle sensing | Omnidirecitonal | None |
Forward-facing LiDAR | Yes | No |
Wind-speed resistance | 10.7 m/s (Level 5) | 8 m/s (Level 4) |
Operating temperature | -10° to 40° C | -10° to 40° C |
IP Rating | No | No |
Internal storage | 49 GB | 22 GB |
Support for external storage | No | No |
Transmission range | Wi-Fi: 500 m O4: 6 km (CE) / 10 km (FCC) | Wi-Fi: 50 m O4: 6 km (CE) / 10 km (FCC) |
Price (as of November 13, 2025) | £209 to £509 | £169 to £449 |
How much better is DJI Neo 2's camera compared to DJI Neo?
The Neo 2’s camera system is a big step forward.
While both use 12 MP 1/2-inch CMOS sensors, Neo 2 offers a f/2.2 aperture - compared to Neo's f/2.8 offering - providing brighter, cleaner footage with improved low-light performance and softer background detail.
In terms of video resolution, Neo 2 supports 4K/60fps, as well as 4K/100fps slow motion (when used with remote control/motion control), compared to the Neo’s 4K/30fps cap.
Neo 2 is achieves an 80 Mbps bitrate, while Neo tops out at 75 Mbps. It might not sound much, but it means Neo 2 delivers cleaner and sharper footage with less compression.
DJI Neo 2 also introduces 2.7K vertical shooting at up to 60fps, whereas the original Neo offers vertical shooting at 1080p in a 9:16 aspect ratio at 60fps. Neo 2's dedicated 2.7K resolution in Vertical mode gives creators more flexibility for social media (TikTok, Instagram Reels) and better image quality when shooting portrait-oriented content.
With its enhanced camera, DJI Neo 2 is equipped with a 2-axis gimbal with EIS for smoother footage.
To help you capture more imaginative and streamlined content with that beefed-up camera, Neo 2 has an array of intelligent shooting modes, such as Dolly Zoom, QuickShots, and MasterShots, as well as SelfieShot, which lets you effortlessly switch between waist-up, full-body, and long shots.
The original Neo supports QuickShots, but lacks these advanced modes.
Verdict: Neo 2 delivers more cinematic, stable, and versatile footage.
DJI Neo 2 | DJI Neo | |
|---|---|---|
Image sensor | 1/2-inch CMOS Sensor | 1/2-inch image sensor |
Lens | FOV: 119.8° Format Equivalent: 16.5 mm Aperture: f/2.2 Focus: 0.7 m to ∞ | FOV: 117.6° Format Equivalent: 14 mm Aperture: f/2.8 Focus: 0.6 m to ∞ |
ISO range | Photo • 100-3200 (Single Auto) • 100-12800 (Burst Auto/Timed Auto) • 100-12800 (Manual) Video • 100-12800 (Auto) • 100-12800 (Manual) | 100-6400 (Auto) 100-6400 (Manual) |
Shutter speed | Video: 1/8000-1/30 s Photo: 1/8000-1/10 | Video: 1/8000-1/30 s Photo: 1/8000-1/10 s |
Max image size | 12 MP Photo 4000 x 3000 (4:3) 4000 x 2250 (16:9) | 12 MP Photo 4000 x 3000 (4∶3) 4000 x 2256 (16∶9) |
Still photography modes | Single/Timed Shot | Single/Timed Shot |
Photo format | JPEG | JPEG |
Video resolution | Horizontal Shooting: • 4K (4:3): 3840 x 2880 @ 60/50/30fps • 1080p (4:3): 1440 x 1080 @ 60/50/30fps • 4K (16:9): 3840 x 2160 @ 100*/60/50/30fps • 1080p (16:9): 1920 x 1080 @ 100*/60/50/30fps Vertical Shooting: • 2.7K (9:16): 1512 x 2688 @ 60/50/30fps. *4K/100fps and 1080p/100fps recording are only supported when using motion control or remote control. | EIS Off: • 4K (4:3): 3840 x 2880 @ 30fps 1080p (4:3): 1440 x 1080 @ 60/50/30fps. EIS On: • 4K (16:9): 3840 x 2160 @ 30fps 1080p (16:9): 1920 x 1080 @ 60/50/30fps. Vertical Shooting: • 1080p (9:16) 1080 x 1920 @ 60/50/30fps. |
Video format | MP4 | MP4 |
Max video bitrate | 80 Mbps | 75 Mbps |
Supported file system | exFAT | exFAT |
Colour mode | Normal | Normal |
EIS | Supports RockSteady and turning stabilisation off*. *The stabilisation switch (On/Off) is only available when paired with goggles. When stabilisation is turned off, footage captured supports offline stabilisation with Gyroflow. | Supports RockSteady, HorizonBalancing, and turning stabilization off.* *When using a 16:9 aspect ratio, only RockSteady or HorizonBalancing can be enabled. Stabilisation is not available in 4:3 aspect ratio. When stabilisation is turned off, footage captured supports offline stabilisation with Gyroflow. |
DJI Neo 2 vs DJI Neo: Design
Both drones are compact, fold-free, and ready to fly straight from the box. They also both have full-coverage propeller guards for enhanced flight safety.
The Neo 2 is the slightly heavier drone, but this is due to its enhanced feature stack.
For instance, the DJI Neo 2 features the new forward-facing LiDAR, and on-board display screen (displaying the current mode and parameters), while the added omnidirectional vision system is located underneath the aircraft (we'll cover this later).
The fact DJI managed to pack LiDAR and an omnidirectional vision system into a drone so small is a magnificent achievement.
To the rear of Neo 2, there is space to attach the DJI Neo 2 Digital Transceiver (pictured below on the drone). This module allows Neo 2 to unlock O4 transmission to enhance stability and latency. We'll discuss this in more detail later.
DJI Neo 2 features an onboard display for intuitive shooting mode selection. To launch, point it at yourself and press the takeoff button with one hand to take off directly from your palm, then perform automatic camera movements.
Verdict: The new design feels sturdier and safer, especially for indoor or close-proximity flying — great for first-time pilots or commercial inspections. Both Neo drones are ultra-light and travel-friendly, but Neo 2 offers added safety and features without much additional bulk.
DJI Neo 2 | DJI Neo | |
|---|---|---|
Weight | 151 g (without DJI Neo 2 Digital Transceiver) 160 g (with DJI Neo 2 Digital Transceiver) | 135 g |
Dimensions (L x W x H) | 147 x 171 x 41 mm (with propeller guards and without DJI Neo 2 Digital Transceiver) 167 x 171 x 54 mm (with propeller guards and DJI Neo 2 Digital Transceiver) | 130 x 157 x 48.5 mm |
DJI Neo 2 offers enhanced tracking compared to DJI Neo
Neo 2 and Neo are follow me drones — but Neo 2 takes the crown when it comes to tracking.
It offers a faster maximum tracking speed of 12 m/s (versus 8 m/s on the Neo), provides more tracking directions (a total of eight), and utilises that newly-added omnidirectional obstacle sensing for safer tracking from the front and sides. Neo 2 also adds a dedicated tracking option for cycling.
Verdict: DJI Neo 2 leads on tracking. It’s faster, smoother, and safer thanks to its 12 m/s tracking speed, eight-direction tracking, and enhanced obstacle sensing.
How can I control DJI Neo 2 and DJI Neo?
DJI Neo 2 and Neo offer quirky methods of control, including voice control, and mobile app control.
However, Neo 2 takes things a step further, offering a new control method: Gesture Control. This new feature allows you to adjust Neo 2’s direction and proximity with one or both hands.
Point your palm toward the drone to guide it up, down, or side to side, or use both palms for precise control over proximity. No remote controller is needed for camera angle adjustment.
For a more traditional experience, both drones can use standard DJI controllers and motion controllers, while support for DJI goggles enables immersive FPV flights with Neo 2 and Neo.
Both Neo drones are compatible with: DJI RC 2, DJI RC-N3 Remote Controller, DJI RC-N2 Remote Controller, DJI RC Motion 3, and DJI FPV Remote Controller 3, as well as DJI Goggles 3, and DJI Goggles N3.
Neo 2 and Neo can both conduct palm take-off and landing, but Neo 2 brings a new Return to Palm feature, allowing the drone to precisely locate your palm, return safely, and land steadily. On the Neo, Return to Home is not supported in Palm Control.
When using Palm Control, Neo 2 can fly to an altitude of 60 metres, while Neo is restricted to 30m of altitude.
Verdict: DJI Neo 2 offers greater flight control flexibility. Gesture Control, Return-to-Palm, and higher palm-control altitude make it more intuitive and versatile than the original Neo.
Is DJI Neo 2 a safer drone than DJI Neo?
In a nutshell, yes.
Don't get us wrong, both Neo drones are safe, courtesy of their lightweight frame and propeller guards.
But Neo 2 takes this, and ups the ante.
It is, after all, DJI's most compact drone to feature omnidirectional obstacle sensing. And it is equipped with that forward-facing LiDAR. It means the drone can detect obstacles from multiple directions and has enhanced low-light performance.
In comparison, DJI Neo has an infrared sensing system and downward vision system, but no obstacle avoidance.
Verdict: DJI Neo 2 is the safer drone. With omnidirectional obstacle sensing and forward-facing LiDAR, it adds a new layer of protection that the Neo simply doesn’t have.
DJI Neo 2 | DJI Neo | |
|---|---|---|
Sensing type | Omnidirectional monocular vision system, paired with a downward infrared sensing system and forward-facing LiDAR. | Infrared sensing system and downward visual positioning. |
Operating environment | Forward, Backward, Left, Right, and Upward: Surfaces with discernible patterns and adequate lighting (lux > 5). Downward: Surfaces with discernible patterns and adequate lighting (lux > 5), and surfaces that are diffusely reflective with a reflectivity above 20% (e.g., walls, trees, people). | Downward: Non-reflective, discernible surfaces with diffuse reflectivity of >20% (such as walls, trees, or people). Adequate lighting (lux > 15, normal indoor lighting conditions). |
DJI Neo 2 vs DJI Neo: Flight performance
DJI Neo 2 offers an enhanced flight experience.
There is a marginal increase in flight time (19 minutes vs 18 minutes), but Neo 2 is more agile and has a quicker tracking speed.
DJI Neo 2 introduces the DJI Neo 2 Digital Transceiver. When connected to the drone and used with a remote controller or goggles, it unlocks O4 transmission, offering a transmission range of up to 6km (CE)/10km (FCC). This little module is included in the DJI Neo 2 Fly More Combo and DJI Neo 2 Motion Fly More Combo, and can also be purchased separately.
The first Neo has O4 as standard.
However, when it comes to WiFi, Neo 2 trumps the Neo, offering a transmission distance of 500m, compared to the Neo's 50m.
Neither drone is IP-rated, but Neo 2 can handle Level 5 wind speeds, compared to Neo's ability to fly in Level 4 conditions.
Verdict: Neo 2 delivers the stronger overall flight experience. It offers better agility, faster tracking, improved Wi-Fi range, and higher wind resistance. While O4 requires the new Digital Transceiver, its expanded capabilities and stability make Neo 2 the more capable performer for real-world flying.
DJI Neo 2 | DJI Neo | |
|---|---|---|
Max Ascent Speed | 0.5 m/s (Cine mode) 3 m/s (Normal mode) 5 m/s (Sport Mode) | 0.5 m/s (Cine mode) 2 m/s (Normal mode) 3 m/s (Sport mode) |
Max Descent Speed | 0.5 m/s (Cine Mode) 3 m/s (Normal Mode) 3 m/s (Sport Mode) | 0.5 m/s (Cine mode) 2 m/s (Normal mode) 2 m/s (Sport mode) |
Max Horizontal Speed | 8 m/s (Normal Mode) 12 m/s (Sport Mode) 12 m/s (tracking status) DJI Neo 2 doesn't currently support Manual mode. Check for future updates. | 6 m/s (Normal mode) 8 m/s (Sport mode) 16 m/s (Manual mode) |
Max Takeoff Altitude | 2,000 m | 2,000 m |
Max Flight Time | 19 mins | 18 mins |
Max Wind Speed Resistance | 10.7 m/s (Level 5) | 8 m/s (Level 4) |
Operating Temperature | -10° to 40° C | -10° to 40° C |
IP Rating | No | No |
Video transmission system | Standard: Wi-Fi Video Transmission Optional: DJI Neo 2 Digital Transceiver (O4) | O4 |
Max transmission distance | O4: 6km (CE) or 10km (FCC) WiFi: 500 m | O4: 6km (CE) or 10km (FCC) WiFi: 50 m |
Live view quality | With DJI RC-N3 Remote Controller: Up to 1080p/60fps With DJI Goggles N3 plus DJI RC Motion 3/DJI FPV Remote Controller 3: Up to 1080p/60fps With DJI Goggles 3 plus DJI RC Motion 3/DJI FPV Remote Controller 3: Up to 1080p/100fps | With DJI RC-N3 Remote Controller: Up to 1080p/60fps With DJI Goggles 3 plus DJI RC Motion 3/DJI FPV Remote Controller 3: Up to 1080p/60fps |
Max download speed | WiFi: 80 MB/s | WiFi: 25 MB/s |
Max video bitrate (transmission) | 60 Mbps | 50 Mbps |
Antennas | Two antennas, 1T2R | Two antennas, 1T2R |
DJI Neo 2 vs DJI Neo: Storage
Neo 2 doubles internal storage to 49 GB, compared to Neo's 22 GB offering.
This extra onboard storage is crucial, especially given the fact that neither Neo 2, nor the original Neo, support expansion with an external SD card.
Verdict: Neo 2 is more efficient, modern, and creator-friendly.
DJI Neo 2 vs DJI Neo: Price
Of course, one of the big factors in all of this is price.
Both versions of the Neo have very attractive price tags.
As the new drone, Neo 2 comes in slightly more expensive, but it is still a very cost-effective option.
These prices were correct as of DJI Neo 2 launch date of November 13, 2024, and are subject to change.
DJI Neo prices are:
DJI Neo (No RC): £169
DJI Neo Fly More Combo: £299
DJI Neo 2 prices are:
Verdict: Both drones offer excellent value, but the Neo 2 delivers far more features for a modest price increase. If you want better safety, tracking, and 4K performance, Neo 2 is the stronger long-term investment.
DJI Neo 2 vs DJI Neo: Summary
The DJI Neo 2 takes everything great about the original Neo and refines it — offering a more capable camera, smarter controls, and unmatched safety in the sub-250g class.
It’s designed to grow with you: simple enough for a beginner, but advanced enough for creative flying and content capture.
If you already own the Neo, the Neo 2 is a genuine upgrade that brings DJI’s latest tech to an ultra-portable form factor.
Purchase the DJI Neo 2 and DJI Neo from heliguy™.
