So, this is the DJI Neo 2, and I’m out here with my buddy Jeven. We’ve been testing a bunch of stuff out here in the Sierra Mountains, and DJI has crammed a lot of really good stuff into this. It’s quite an upgrade from the original Neo, but I’m going to give you first impressions here. By the way, DJI didn’t send this to me. Jeven and I actually bought this. Let’s try this thing out and see how it works.
DJI Neo 2 Key Features and Modes
First off, it now has obstacle avoidance, top and bottom. And then this is the O4 module on the back. So, if you want to be able to go greater distances, that’s a module you’re going to want. The coolest part is these two front screens, which give you a whole bunch of feedback about what mode the drone is flying in.
Note: I mistakenly said there are 2 screens, there is only one the other side has a lidar sensor and transmitter for obstacle avoidance.
On the side here, you have buttons (rocket, follow, selfie shot, droney, circle) to be able to cycle through the different modes. You can push and hold to cycle through different parameters (like 2m, 4m, 6m, 10m, 20m). And then to get out of it, push that.
Improved Tracking and Video Quality
While there’s definitely some improvement in the video quality of the Neo 2 (it just looks a little more natural), I think the biggest improvements come because of the obstacle avoidance and the new tracking features. And then, of course, it has follow modes.
This is the biggest improvement: You can now select where you want the drone to follow you from. Instead of just following you from in front or behind, the DJI Neo 2 is now capable of following you from pretty much anywhere (rocket follow, rear, left, rear, rear right, front right). And it does a really good job of tracking someone and staying in that position once you start moving.
Simple Operation
Like the Neo 1, the Neo 2 is designed primarily as a self-flying selfie drone to capture shots of you doing whatever you’re doing without the need for a controller. So, when you’re ready to stop tracking or flying, you simply stop, hold out your hand, and the Neo 2 will come and land in the palm of your hand. Super easy and super simple to operate.
First Impressions on the DJI Neo 2 Drone
It’s cool that you can now track from all sides; the front doesn’t matter as much. It definitely is a pretty big improvement as far as tracking over the Neo 1.
To me, there’s definitely been some improvement in the image quality over the Neo 1. This actually looks pretty decent, even though there’s no log color profile. It actually looks a little bit more natural and not quite as oversharpened as the Neo 1 did.
With the new tracking features, the Neo 2 is definitely a solid drone. And it has a little bit better top speed and wind resistance, which is really great.
Final Verdict
Like the Neo 1, you don’t need a controller, or you can control this with a remote control. And with the addition of O4 (OcuSync 4), it gives it some really solid range and penetration where there might be bushes, trees, or obstacles.
And speaking of obstacles, now that it has obstacle avoidance, it’s really nice, and that enables some of the more advanced tracking features. But like anything, obstacle avoidance is not foolproof. And thankfully, this drone is fairly durable.
If you’re looking for your first drone or a really solid follow drone where you don’t have to worry about controlling the drone as much, then the Neo 2 should definitely be high on your list.
Where to Buy
There are affiliate links in the description that you can get the DJI Neo 2 from. If you’re in the US, I have a few specific places where I know they have them in stock, including Drone Works. If you want to buy from somebody in the US who ships out quickly, then I would suggest going through Drone Works. There are other options in there, too, including some resellers on eBay that I haven’t had issues with, and I do keep those links updated. So, be sure and check those out.
