DJI Smart Controller vs Mavic Air 2 Controller
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- Опубликовано: 11 сен 2024
- This was an attempt to give a connectivity/range test between the original Mavic Air 2 Controller and the DJI Smart Controller. It had been said the SC signal was not as strong as the MA2 controller, but I could not find a video on the subject. I didn't want a long video, but felt the subject deserved what we have here. For the 'results' go to 9:54 in the video. Thanks for watching.
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Excellent test Doug! I like the way you documented the signal strength along the way.
Thanks Marcus, had fun filming and editing that one. It helps me appreciate how much time you have to devote to your channel‼️ Keep up your good work and stay safe.
Thank you for this video, I plan to fly in the hot desert, and have ordered the smart controller.
Your welcome. Glad you found it helpful. However, check out this video, it may be helpful as well ruclips.net/video/Dzy-38lm_4I/видео.html At this time I still fly with the Smart Controller, even with the jitter issues. Also, I understand they will be offering a new Smarts Controller when they announce the new Mavic 3 on November 4 (just 2 days from now). Perhaps you should consider cancelling the order until you see what happens, just a thought.
Very well put together comparison. This past Saturday, 09/26, I received my Smart Controller from Amazon. I've owned the Mavic 2 Zoom for over 2 years and the Mavic Air 2 for 5 months. I spent the rest of the day setting it up (pairing, general settings). The next day I took both drones and the Smart controller out for field tests. The M2Zoom functioned flawlessly. Range/signal distance was equal to anything else I'd been using. The Mavic Air 2, however, did not do near as well. In a medium-to-low RF area, the MA2 started to lose video signal around 900 ft out/250 ft alt. Complete signal loss at 1500 ft. While trying to regain signal and initiate RTH, the app says, "Reset Home Point. Check the map". So at 1500 ft away, hovering over a body of water, was where my new home point was. Seconds after that, the entire Fly app crashed. Upon re-starting the app, I had video but no telemetry figures. So with just the video, I was able to fly the MA2 back to me. So just to make sure I wasn't having RF issues, I drove 10 miles to another site I like to use. Over an open field, medium RF interference, the MA2 lost signal at 1300ft. But this time I just hit RTH and waited. It came back. So this morning, after dealing with Amazon, the Smart Controller is boxed up and waiting to be returned. Mine could have been a lemon, but I was leery from the get-go about DJI putting this app on a device running an Android version that was "stable" years ago. New app + old OS=bad experience.
Yea BMack, This was my first flight with it (other than a short spin around the block) so I probably shouldn't have done that particular flight for the comparison. Luckily 🤞 there were no serious consequences. I think I'll hit the desert next time and film some lava fields or something, just to be sure it's working properly. The good news is I have set my RTH to 300', which is crazy high, but I've found my piece of mind is important!! Thanks for the feedback and info. Much appreciated. 👍👍👍
had a similar issue with the MA2, however, this was just a test down the Cul-De-Sac, I wasn't able to get the MA2 to land, luckily, i was only flying at about 5 ft height and was able to grab the drone and turn it upside down to get it to stop. I performed a reset on the IMU, and Compass, and did not have any issues on the second try, will try a a short range test of about 1000 ft when the weather and smoke (live in Northern CA, Fires have been an issue) are more agreeable.
For $700 it should have extended range. I only wanted it because the screen was really great but after realizing it cost as much as the Air 2, it’s just out right ridiculous.
@@jagergerg9771 It is expensive, no doubt❗❗❗❗
I have made a rather most disapointing experince flying the MA 2 with my SC. The range I got was three times less as with the MA 2 controller. So, I do not advise you to buy the SC. However flying my M2 ZOOM, the SC does very well.
Fantastic test Doug!, I like yourself have both controllers, and haven't even opened my original controller yet. I'm the same as you, using my SC simply because of the perfectly bright screen and no need for wires, and still have the use of my phone. I live in England so am on the CE wavelength which sadly limits the range to 6KM. But still is more than enough for casual use. Anyway thanks for the review again mate, and happy flying! 👍
Thank you, Paul. Sounds like you enjoy your flying!! That's fantastic. And, about the range, although the test showed the flight range was quite significant, I generally fly within 2 kilometers during normal flying. That way I can keep my eye on the drone and my subject. Thanks for stopping by and commenting❗❗
I just bought and now waiting to get my smart controller and have heard the range reception issues. You just put my mind at ease. Thank you brother.
You bet. That's why I made this video. Heard "bad stuff" about range and had to find out myself. Glad it helped and thanks for stopping by❗❗👍
@@dougbell5950 my pleasure Doug.
The bottom center of the screen indicates whether controller is facing drone .Antennas need to face drone directly
I agree that they need to face the drone directly. Believe it or not, I was facing the drone, as straight as one can be, for the entire flight. I have not been impressed with the accuracy of this version of the "Aircraft Orientation" feature. The new update seems to be much more accurate and reliable.
Wow that was very interesting, man! Thanks! I hope you foresaw the influence of wind when you flew to that island!
Yea, I was sweating bullets on the second flight for sure. Not much breeze when I took off, but........................ 🌬 Thanks for stopping by Symon‼
thanks for sharing. People also complained that the screen is a bit choppy, especially the video on it. I will probably go ahead with a standard controller, given extra cost.
Your welcome Vlad. Regarding the 'Choppy' Issue, take a look at this one I did. ruclips.net/video/Dzy-38lm_4I/видео.html I will say, the issue has improved since I created the video (with updates from DJI). However, the price is still a BIG consideration when you're looking at the Smart Controller. Happy flying and thanks for stopping by‼😊
@@dougbell5950 thanks a lot Doug! Very helpful videos! I decided to go with just a standard controller, as you said it probably is not worth the price. Regarding your iphone overheating issue, if the looks dont bother you, this may be solved relatively simple - you need to find an aluminum heatsink of the matching shape and some heat transfer tape and stick it on the iphone. But in all honesty, that is unacceptable from the manufacturer to have such a defect. I personally went ahead and switched to android 4 years ago or so and never looked back. Difference is dramatic. The only thing rhat is significantly better in iPhone is cameras.
Well done! Not a techie, but I really enjoyed checking out your beautiful yard and all the action at the bird feeder. I also enjoyed gliding over the lake. Thanks so much for sharing!
Thanks for stopping by. We have 3 feeders and 3 bird baths in the yard. The bird baths get a lot of action and it's fun to watch all the bathing. Some of the birds practically empty the baths as they thrash about❗
First thing that confused me was the Alaska shirt and the not Alaska backyard 🤪I'm an Alaska resident, so that jumped right out at me. Thanks for the comparison, very thorough and useful. Do you ever notice interference from your cell phone with either controller? When I use my phone with a DJI remote to fly with the Spark, I have to turn on airplane mode. I'm hoping interference won't affect the smart controller.
So that's not an Alaskan backyard❓🤣 I did get the opportunity to visit your state and found it to be an amazing place. About possible interference, the only thing that I have noticed, and this applies to the original controller, was the "Aircraft Orientation" indicator which was located at the bottom/middle of the Fly App screen and is now on the bottom/left. It was sometimes not always accurate. I've heard this 'problem' may be caused by metal/magnetic items near the controller but not sure that has been confirmed. Other than that I have not noticed any other possible interference issues. TMax, thanks for stopping by❗
Will be interesting to see both test in Android since SC is Android. That can explain the difference in the bars calculations. The bar calculations does not mean anything for me, we need to see the data logs of both flights.
Doug you'll never believe this but I just ordered the air 2 with smart controller bundle from Amazon for $1,060! I have no clue why the price went to that. I couldn't believe my eyes! The price went back up 2 hours later. Unbelievable 😁
WOW❗❕❗ That's fantastic!! Good for you and enjoy your flying!!
@@dougbell5950 Thanks 😎
I just saw the same yesterday and a friend told me that those offerts* are fakes
@@EndikaLaorden I ordered it directly from DJI on Amazon. Not from a 3rd party seller. Price went back up 2 hours later. Gets delivered tomorrow. I'll let you know after I get it how it turns out, bit I am confident it will be legit. Unless DJI is up to something fishy which is highly unlikely.
Edit:
I just checked my Amazon receipt and it 100% is coming from the DJI official Amazon store. Like I said I'll let you know how it turns out tomorrow 😁
@@anonymoususer1824 Wow I m very happy for you bro, I just saw one on amazon yesterday and i was like wtf man I need to buy this shit now. But first I called one of my friends to confirm this and he told me to look the seller and it wasn ´t dji so I did´t buy it.
Hope you enjoy it ^^ I would buy it this week on dji´s web :(
Thanks very much for the video Doug! I just ordered my Air 2 with the SC and am looking around for any info before it comes. I enjoyed your video and especially like your commentary which leads to my one complaint...the background music has to go ;p You do a great job narrating...that background stuff makes me think the drone is on it's way to a funeral ;p :) Anyhow, thanks again my friend!
Well David, I'm really happy for you and your future flying experience with your MA2. Your going to have a lot of fun with that drone. And, thanks for stopping by and commenting on the video. I'm glad it was helpful. About the music, would you rather have no music or just something a little more upbeat and aggressive. Your thoughts? By the way, the guy that posted before you wanted to know the sound track I used for the music, LOL.
@@dougbell5950 I am certainly no creative pro and can only speak for my personal reaction. I enjoyed listening to your voice and narration and the atmospheric music was distracting. If you had no interesting commentary I could see the background music but your commentary was very good and informative, especially with the highlights on the screen. Long story short, your narration was good enough for me as far as audio goes! Speaking of which, have you done anymore testing? I got the combo WITH the smart controller and they do not even send me the stock A2 controller, so really it's a moot point for me I suppose but still nice to know.
@@FamilyFunIRL Great feedback. What I think I'll do in the future is eliminate background music if I'm narrating and only use something for long video clips with no narration. I don't really have any more tests planned with the SC vs the Stock Controller. I do have one in process regarding the MA2 and it's flying speeds, but that's it for tests. Do you have any suggestions for some sort of testing/comparisons? I'm guessing you have seen my 2 precision landing tests. If not, take a look. Again, thanks for your input.👍
Great video, I have the same set up and am very happy with my Smart controller good job Doug!
Thank you. I now have the Air 2S and the controller and the RC work great together. Thanks for stopping by.👍
I just started my journey into the drone world, my first drone being the MA2. I've been seriously considering the Smart Controller but haven't been able to justify the cost.
However, your point about the screen dimming is of great concern. I live in Texas where it gets extremely hot, so yeah, this video is very helpful. Thanks!
I'm not sure if android phones dim or not, but my iPhone sure did (and I know others have had the issue). The SC is expensive, but for some of us it's a good option. The Tripletech Tablet (probably spelled that wrong) is also an option you should be aware of. It has a super bright screen and can serve many purposes. However, since you have to use it like any other tablet/phone, it is pretty heavy and still requires a special mount and the wire connections, whereas the SC is much more compact and lighter and more of a plug/play devise. Good luck with your MA2 and have fun flying❗❗❗
@@dougbell5950
Thanks man. Yeah I got the tablet mount (haven’t used it yet) but your points on the draw backs of using the phone were well taken.
Safe flying my friend.
how about just dont buy lemon phones from brands that sell you those?
Thanks for the great content. I recently purchased a Air 2 and wow, you’re not kidding, the screen dims to the point of being useless. After watching other videos on the subject, I just purchased mini ice (gel) packs from Amazon. About the size of an IPhone. Others say it has helped tremendously. So, before I drop another 800 on a SC, I’m going to try that. Thanks again.
That's a good 'first move' Jim. The SC is expensive and has some issues (but not the screen brightness) so I really hope those ice packs work for you.❗❗
You people iPhone fans are just so blind that you keep looking solution in anything but not in an actual lousy flawed product lol. You never stop to amaze me haha. The junk overheats and you are buying ice packs... yet looking for a solution in another controller … I switched to android about 4 years ago, never looked back. Miss the good natural color cameras though., but that doesn't justify to do such a dramatic downgrade to go back to iOS. I mean, if you are that religious about your iPhone, you could simply attach an aluminium heatsink to it while flying, that would solve your problem, definitely not an ice pack, that's a very dumb solution, the one we would expect from a 8 year old kid.
Doug - Great work - I really enjoyed this video - Very thoughtful commentary - I too have both controllers and tend to think that the antenna Technology is probably more sophisticated on the MA2’s controller hence the fluctuation in Bars - But Agree that the Smart controller’s screen is the real reason I bought it and of course a number of other function buttons -Keep up the Good Work and Thanks 😊
Thanks for stopping by and your comments. Going to try a Parabolic Signal Booster in a few days with the same kind of flights. Hope it will be interesting.
Pizza fritta...🤗
Thanks Doug! Great testing and insight! Cheers!
Thanks Dom, Glad you found it helpful.
Great Video, You did an amazing job of a head to head comparison on stock RC vs Smart Controller.
I am on the fence weather or not to purchase the SC, this video helps in my decision.
Thank you Chad. It is a tough decision, because of the cost. Basically, your paying for more convenience, or, in my case, a dark screen on my iPhone when it gets warm. But you should not be concerned about 'performance' issues. Good luck with whichever way you go❗❗ And,..... Thanks for stopping by. 👍
@@dougbell5950 I recently purchased from B&H, Mavic Air 2 Fly more combo with Smart Controller, 1399.00 , so that knocks off about 300.00 from stand alone price of SC.
I should be receiving it this week.
@@ChadRex1 Nice Job Chad❗❗❗ The MA2 is amazing and the SC (especially at that price) is a great add-on. Happy flying!!
I liked your test sir. What can u tell about latency between both controllers? Specially after the recent update that should fix some issues?
Well Ahmed, I'm still seeing video stutter with the SC on the screen. It's not as bad as it used to be, but it's there. The video from the SD card is great, but the screen stutter is frustrating. I don't think it will ever go away because the SC processor (it can't keep up with the demands put on it) is the root of the problem. When I use my phone (iPhone 11) the fpv screen is very smooth.
However, I still use the SC because it's so easy to set up and the screen is so bright and easy to see. Hope that helps. ❗❕❗
@@dougbell5950 that was great to know bro. Thank u so much 👌🏻
It's unfortunate there aren't a lot of good bright screen option for flying the MA2. I've used my phone, both Tripltek tablets (PRO and standard) and finally settled on a Samsung Tab S7 tablet which works flawlessly but I do with the screen was brighter. I wonder if the Smart Controller having older hardware and working with more demanding software (fly app) gives more stuttery live playback as you fly because of the graphics processor in the controller or just connectivity with the aircraft. I did find the video playback on the Tripltek was not nearly as smooth as I get with my tablet although the screen was surely very bright. If I'm not mistaken the SC runs Android 5.0. I went to DJI's website and clicked on specs for the SC, it doesn't list the android version and doesn't even list the Air 2 as being compatible in their list of supported aircraft, probably just an oversight with updating that page.
The SC is running Android 7.1.2 (from 2017). I understand it's a 'tweaked' version of the OS. I'm sorry the Tripltek didn't work for you. If my SC didn't meet my needs (which it does) I was going to try the Tripltek. I do not notice any stuttery playback on the SC, unless it's related to excessive range, which is something you would expect. At any rate, hope you find a solution that meets your needs, and thanks for stopping by.👍👍
the music in the background witch soundtrack is that. amazing video by the way.
I used two, "Overcome" by Ugonna Onyekwe ands "Realization" by Hanu Dixit, both from the RUclips audio library. Glad you liked the video❗❗👍
That’s what I was looking for 👍🏻 thanks I got the SC with MA2
I think your going to be very happy with that combo. Happy Flying❗❗❗
Very well put together video! Thx
Thank you Fernando, hope it was helpful.
I'm not a big fan of overly reflective screens. (It's the first test I do when viewing flat screen TVs). How does the Smart Controller screen compare to, say, a modern iPhone for reflectivity?
I would call the screen 'normal' in terms of reflectivity. It's flat/plain glass so it's about the same as any smart phone out there. I did add a screen protector on mine (also regulars glass) but perhaps there is a matte finished protector available??
I found this at Amazon www.amazon.com/upscreen-Reflection-Controller-Anti-Glare-Protection/dp/B07MYJXBTH Perhaps it would work for you❓❓
Well done, very good video. Thanks 👍👍
Your welcome. I hope it was useful for you.
Doug, how did you set the antenna on the Smart Controller? The best reception is with the facing down at the ground and the flat part facing to the front of the controller, as that's how the antennas reception works.
You are correct. Check out this video to see how I had them set (without the 'boosters") ruclips.net/video/B9EnaQEqX-I/видео.html Thanks for stopping by❗❗
The MA2 controller went from 4 bars to 3 closer to the 12,000’ mark than 10,000’, at about 11,868’.
It did 'bounce around' there for a bit, that's for sure. Thanks for watching and commenting❗👍
In live in southern California also. I'm in Orange County. The thing that annoys me the most about DJI is how many restrictions there are with where you can take off and fly.
I feel your pain, but I don't really blame DJI. They are just applying the FAA standards/rules. We just live in a very urban place and it's hard to fly here. But, check out the fly rules for Laguna Beach (watch my vid). You can launch from the beach and fly out over water and get some great views and angles, just don't fly over the beach itself. www.lagunabeachcity.net/cityhall/police/cominfo/drones/default.htm I would fly on cool, sunny weekdays to avoid people and stuff. Other beaches may have similar allowances. Or, plan some day trips up to Big Bear or Arrowhead or the desert. I know, it's till a pain. But whatcha gonna do, right?
Nice video, Good info!
Glad you liked it. Hope it was helpful. Thanks for stopping by.❗❗
Great video!
Thank you sir!!
Great video and important information.. Thank you man👌
Thanks, glad it was helpful.
Nice video I greatly enjoyed it
Thanks for taking a look. Gonna do one on the smart controller and a parabolic signal booster in a few days. Should be interesting.
Perfect video
Thank you Justin❗❗
A good, informative video, important to me because I''m considering buying an SC. Thanks! But the background "music"was annoying and distracting. I suggest you keep it for videos where you sing your reports.
I'm happy you found it helpful. It is an expensive decision/option. Good luck with whatever you choose.
The range of either the Smart Controller or the basic one far exceeds the drone battery capacity.
Exactly❗ Some people had been knocking the SC because it didn't have the range of the basic controller. But, as you said, It's more about the batteries than the controller. Thanks for stopping by.
@@dougbell5950 agree. I’m new to all this, but the SC has a number of features beyond the basic. One reason I went for the SC is the HDMI, which allows me to attach goggles. The range issue really isn’t an issue at all.
Nice test but the differences could be due to antenna orientation and calibration of the RF sensor.
Certainly possible. However the orientation of the controllers were always directly at the drone for both flights. I think the real point turned out to be that the battery flight time of the drone itself is the limiting factor of a comparison of the controllers. So the idea the SC is not up to par (range wise) to the original controller is a mute point. The battery determines how far you will fly, not the controller. Thanks for stopping by.
The best comment, the phuker factor, is real
Yes it is❗❗ When it dawns on you that you may have screwed up, and your could loose your $800 drone......................... I did my next test over land 😆
Thanks for stopping by.
Great job with the video!
Thanks John. Glad you enjoyed it.
Great Video Doug, and THANKS for posting, I also have both controllers, and have linked the MA2 and P4 v2 to my Smart Controller, but wasn't sure how the MA2 and P4 v2 would respond in a long range test, I normally fly over a Bay when doing long range flying, which means if something goes wrong, the Drone is gone period, your video post was very informative, thanks again for sharing
Your welcome Jimmy. My next post (SC with parabolic signal booster) will be over land. Water is great, but...... Thanks for checking the video out! 👍👍
Nice test and views. Whats the location? Looks like your on another planet.
That location was Lake Mathews in Southern California. From this video perspective, I think your observation is justified❗ 👍
How were the antenna positioned? If the tips are pointed at the drone that would decrease the range.
Yea, the tips were pointed down so the 'flat part' of the antennas pointed towards the drone (with the Smart Controller). So, in my case, I got about as much range out of each controller as I was going to get. Bottom line, If anyone was concerned about 'range' Issues with the SC, I think the difference between the two is negligible. The price, on the other hand...........
Thanks for stopping by and commenting 👍👍
Great video full of useful information I don't think I'll be getting the smart controller I think it's way overpriced for what it is
it is not cheap, that is for sure❗❗❗ Thanks for stopping by.
Thank you!
Your welcome. 🙂
Excellent video. Very informative. Have the MA2 for a while now and have been wanting to get the SC for ages. Price is the big factor, range in EU won't be an issue from what I can see.
For me its an ease of use purchase. No fiddling with phone cable and switching off WiFi etc etc.
From your experience on purely an enjoyment factor is it more enjoyable flying the drone with SC or MA2 controller?
Look forward to seeing more of your videos. Like and new sub from me.
Ronan, thanks for checking it out and adding your thoughts. Certainly, since I paid the big-bucks for the SC I'm going to say it's "more enjoyable". But, in fact, it is. I wanted to test something out last week and hooked up my original MA2 controller for the test, but I had forgotten what a (minor) pain it was to set-up and use. For me, there are 3 things that make the SC easier/better to use, 1) screen brightness. My iPhone would go dark (really dark) when it heated up and I could not see the screen (not good). 2) Ease of set-up. You just put the sticks in, turn it on and you're ready to go. 3) Ease of use. The screen and controls are all in one spot. The battery life exceeds the use of 3 batteries. And, the buttons are convenient to use. Having said all that, there are some firmware issues that need to be ironed out. The app crashed on me the other day (it restarted automatically). There was an update soon thereafter, but the app crashed on me today, and it again restarted automatically. But, I'm guessing the firmware on the original controller has "issues" as well. Anyway, it's not all a bed of roses, but I still prefer it to the original controller. And, thanks for the sub!!!!
@@dougbell5950 thanks for that Doug. Yet again really helpful. Not that I need much convincing but dji store here I come. Thanks very much. Happy flying from locked down Ireland.
thanks for posting, its a ,lot of money for the controller, but the brightness is why I would want one, I'm still liking the Iphone for the most part as my viewing screen, its interesting for sure, nice job on this, thanks for posting
My iPhone kept going dark, not usable. Not sure why some do and some don't. At any rate, I could afford it so I got it!! Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment❗👍
@@dougbell5950 thank you,, if I was not in Guam, I'd order actually,, for my original Mavic Pro from 12/16 I used Glyphs goggles with a Nvidia Shield tablet, it had an HDMI output and connected to the USB under the original controller, it was an excellent setup, but about 700, I always enjoyed it, that went away on the Mavic Mini and Air 2 with the DJI GO FLY replacing GO4 app,, appreciate your views for sure,, your easy to listen too
Pretty good test...
Next time I would be a little more mindful of being sure that both controller antennas are pointed directly at the drone at all times. Obviously using the bottom center indicator on the screen. One controller was off to one side. The other controller was off to the other side. This can make a difference. Thanks for posting the video I have been wondering if the smart controller will fit in the bag or not.
Thanks for stopping by!
Nice work..... you made me nervous though!!
I was too new to droning to understand how much trouble I was going to be in. Of course, at the end, I knew my MA2 was in jeopardy!!. The next time I did a range test I did it in the desert‼ Thanks for your comment!!
I got the Smart Controller with the fly more package, no regrets at all.
Especially with that price discount. Good for you.❗❗❗
i just ordered a smart controller for my ma2... i wish its good... i have ipad mini 5 that i use with my drones..but man....i cant see anything on the sunlight
@@overoula A little smaller screen, but I think you'll like it 👍
@@overoula It's great! I have to turn down the brightness during the day! Ha!
@@UFOSPACEMAN wednesday comes cant wait to try it on the sun
Great video and information Doug thanks for sharing cheers had the smart controller wasn’t fussed on it I use my iPad mini for my Mavic 2 pro with a sunshade on it 👍
Thanks Rod. I'm still working through all your videos. I was catching up pretty good and then you posted some more❗❗❗ I had better pick up the pace!! 😁
Can you swithch easily from the smart controler to the original one. do you have to bind again and again each time you controlers ? Good work Mr Bell thank you!
The switch is relatively easy. You do have to get used to the slightly different button use, but it's not bad. I have had to bind my MA2 each time I use it. It's not supposed to work like that, so I'm hoping that gets fixed. I don't have to re-bind when I switch batteries, only when I shut down the SC. Thanks for stopping by❗👍
@@dougbell5950 Thank you sir, I only hope that I will love my SC
Save yourself almost $800. Get a sun hood for your phone. This controller is not worth the money in my opinion. If your going to spend that much, buy a backup drone instead. Just seems like a wiser. But hey go for it if you got $800 to burn.
Hey Terry, I get where your coming from. It's friggin expensive. And I did use the hood and turned off all extraneous stuff, but my iPhone kept overheating and going dark. Totally unacceptable for flying. And I know there were other options. But, I fell into some extra money and figured "what the heck". So I got it and it's doing what I expected from it. Thanks for stopping by❗
I use the dji sun hood on my S10 plus. (supposedly a very bright phone). But it's just not good enough. Not even close. I have found this simple trick works like magic. Just wear a black T-shirt. Do this... Not all the time but when you need detail. Like trying to find a shark in the ocean. You can quickly pull the shirt up over your head a little so you're now inside, and then put the phone/controller under the shirt at the bottom. Then all the sudden everything is perfectly beautiful and detailed on the phone. The difference is night and day. Yeah it looks a little goofy but I'm usually flying with no one around. Just be sure the shirt is a little oversized. Or on cold days a black oversized hoodie even better.
I just can't pay more for a controller than I did for the Drone.
I might consider the $600 refurbished from DJI but they never come up. EBay is Never Enough savings to buy used from an unknown seller. I tried a Hoodman but they dont make a size for my phone. It really sucks we can't use the dji goggles. Such Dji BS. Just like not being able to use the smart controller for so long. Everybody knows they're just trying to get people to buy the higher end drones. Great products. Highly Questionable business decisions. Personally I can't wait for the competition to come in someday. Skydio is a great start but not what I need. When they come out with their foldable version and a better controller I think it's game over.
Someday soon better tech for the money. Flying with a bacon only is pretty slick.
@@KaneLono can you post a quick video with you flying and your shirt over your head, bahaha
@@shaneflemming1721 lol!
Yeah.. it prolly looks dumb but it works great.
I almost always fly out where there are no people around. So I could care less. Black oversized hoodie works best in the winter!
Did you have the antennae on the smart controller vertically (pointing up or down) or horizontally?
On the SC the antenna were at an angle, pointing towards the ground, to get the best signal out to the drone, just like I did on the parabolic range test ruclips.net/video/B9EnaQEqX-I/видео.html I should have mention that in this vid. Thanks for bringing it up. 👍👍
@@dougbell5950 Gotcha, thanks!
Lake Matthews, hey buddy you live near me ..lol..ill look for you up in the air in IE
You never know, the drone you see could be mine!! Thanks for stopping by‼😀
I heard it was because the chipset in the SC is outdated. Etc etc.
if your controller loses signal on your way back just for that 45 secs. That can be the difference between land or water.
I was really sweating bullets on the second return. My eyes kept moving from battery life, to distance from home, to the screen to see when I would cross to land. My next long range test was over desert land 😁👍
Thanks for your presentation, Doug! Hope you don't mind offering some advice? I recently purchased the Air 2 and using the smart controller which I bought a while back when I owned the Mavic 2 Pro. I was always able to get real-time maps by using a hot spot with my smartphone but I cannot make this happen with the air 2? Can you advise?
Peter, I have not actually tried to do that. However, I plan on going out to the desert soon and will give it a try. I'll add a comment here so you can see if I had any luck. 🤞🤞
@@dougbell5950 Very kind of you! I have been after DJI about this and I can tell that they don't know.
Great video Doug. I am getting the Mavic Air 2. I am debating on using an iPhone with the Mavic Air controller or getting the smart controller. The package with the smart controller is an additional $420. Do you think it is worth getting for $420? Thanks again.
I am trying to make the same decision.
Well, $420 is a lot less than I paid, but still not chump change. If funds aren't a big issue, I'd get it. The bright screen is really nice and there's no fiddling with the phone and cables. I know some people might say it's a lot for the 'convenience", but...................... Hey, I'm retired and I can't 'take it with me", so I got one. And, as I found out with this test (and others), it works just fine, no range issues, no operational issues, you get the idea. Good luck with your choices gentlemen, and happy flying. ✈
And thanks for stopping by❗❗❗
First time watching your channel. Loved it. Right to the point. Nice and short. Subscribe today. Keep up the great work
Thanks Isaac. Appreciate your feedback and your visit to the channel. 😁
When a warning of an aircraft flying in proximity was issued, you did not appear to respond, either by lowering the altitude of your drone, or alerting your VO to check for nearby manned aircraft. Why was that?
Sorry, comment meant for previous video
@@rolloharte6825 No problem. I did get warnings during this flight, but I had visual of all the aircraft in the area and on my line of site and did not feel the need to change the flight. I definitely get what your saying though.
Nice detail video
Thanks Frank❗
A range of 800 ft. for the Air 2 is enough, anything over that is an illegal flight since you would be violating the FAR requiring you to keep visual contact with the drone at all times. I’m always amazed how someone will put up a video publicly showing to the FAA a willful violation of the FARs. They could come after you dude, not smart.
I did mention in the beginning (hope you watched the entire video) that I had a spotter for the very reason you mentioned. I also flew in a (mostly) uninhabited desert local for safety purposes. I think your concerns are well founded. Thanks for stopping by.
I can often see my air 2 1500' away if it's against a clear sky, at the same time I often can't see it only 200' away if there's a treeline and honestly flying with the camera is often much safer than trying to keep a visual on the drone. I nearly crashed into trees flying visually like that in a field when I couldn't gauge how close I was to the edges. As for the FAA, they don't come on youtube looking for violators but if someone sends them a complaint they have to follow up. In this video even if the pilot didn't have a spotter this was far from endangering anyone and really the only risk was the drone becoming garbage in the water if it went down. Of course there's plenty of Karens in the world that feel the need to report people that break a rule. My take is if you do something even IF it's legal if it's not safe or you're annoying people with the noise from your drone don't do it and if more people thought like that I feel we'd have less rules. There's lots of times I chose not to fly when I could legally because I might bother someone who may not understand drones.
Where and how much
The controller used to be $750 but I don't think they sell them any longer, at least not the version for the Air 2. Depending on your specific DJI drone, all the controllers are sold at their website.
The question is will smart controller fit in hard case
It really depends on the hard case you purchase. This case is designed with the smart controller in mind. ruclips.net/video/Q6u6zmfgAIw/видео.html I'm sure there are others as well.
Thanks for stopping by.
Check out the TRIPLTEK Tablet, brighter than the Smartcontroller
It is brighter but it also weighs in at 1.45 lbs. Plus you still have the cable and mounting adapter to deal with. It is a little less expensive, but still not cheap. Looks like a tough call, but a great option to think about‼️
Don't tell me you had problems with your fancy Macintosh phone
Yes, my fancy iPhone 7 did overheat in the sun, bummer😒
Thanks for the vid! Was timely for me since I'd just got off the Amazon site after putting the sc in my cart. Haven't pulled the trigger yet cuz of the price, hoping after the election the trade war nonsense will end and the price will drop to something more reasonable. Btw, not sure I'd have flown 3 miles out OVER WATER for the test but guess your a braver guy than me. Or dumber, but that's hard to believe! Just subscribed, hope to see more
Thanks Allen, to answer your question, probably dumber!! Actually, I feel pretty confident with the MA2 RTH routine. It hasn't failed me yet. And, flying over water, as long as I stay above 30 feet, is something I feel pretty good about as well. And you are so right about the cost of the SC. ITS NOT CHEAP! Let's hope it drops in price for you. Thanks for subscribing. I don't post a lot and it's a mix of tech and scenic stuff, so I hope you enjoy it.
@@dougbell5950
Haha! I'm Alien, not Allen! And I still get queasy flying that far away over water, maybe with more experience I'll get more confident. Right now I'm probably too focused on what COULD happen
@@alienbob5595 I need better screen resolution Bob!!
@@dougbell5950
No problem, I've for sure been called worse
So you bought a sc because of an iphone problem
Yes, my iPhone would overheat and the screen would darken (a known 'issue' of the iPhone). It would get so dark I could not see where I was flying. After using the SC I found the set-up to be much easier/faster and the screen to be quite bright. However, the SC does come with some issues. Take a look, ruclips.net/video/Dzy-38lm_4I/видео.html
The jitters seem to be better, but still there, so I continue to use the SC over the iPhone. Some people do not have the jitter issues with the SC, but I think most have it to one extent or another. Hope this is helpful. 😊
Like 🇧🇷
Thanks for stopping by!
I think you should upgrade your phone may be IPhone 7 is bit old for Mavic Air 2, I always use my iPhone XS Max never have a problem
Good idea. So good that I actually did upgrade to an iPhone 11❗❗ But I don't use it for flying. The Smart Controller is much easier to set up and operate and the screen is very bright and easy to see. But, you're right, the 7 was getting a little old. Thanks for stopping by and sharing your wisdom❕❕👍
LOS?
❓❓❓ Did you have a question?
@@dougbell5950 yes, why do you fly beyond line of sight?
@@ghosttjr2 First, it was the only way to get a true test of range (SC vs stock controller). Next, I had a spotter on the south side of the lake to watch for the drone. Lastly, I flew over Lake Matthews, which does not allow swimming or watercraft (no people) so I felt I was flying in as safe a manner as possible. Thanks for asking!!
Always keep your aircraft batteries charged. I live in cold country so do not fly in winter time. BAAAD These chemical batteries are ruined for good if you ever let them go all the way flat. Just saying. Keep them at least half way charged all the time, don't put them away in the closet for months on end.
I totally agree with you. I never leave mine discharged. I did this 'experiment' to test the difference between the 2 controllers. At the time, no one had actually done this. There was a lot of speculation, but that was all. In the end, the difference in the controllers was not the issue, it was battery life that was the key factor. By the way, both batteries recovered from being almost totally "used up" and have performed just fine since that day. Thanks for stopping by.
dji need to up their game with their controllers for a long time they are to small and only designed for a cell phone the Ma2 is a perfect design and I like the screen on the top of the controller you don't have to fly around looking down all the time and it doesn't cost $680 like the smart controller does
Your absolutely correct, the MA2 controller is a great controller. I just couldn't use it with my iPhone (screen kept going dark) and I had the money for the SC. But the SC is not for everyone. Thanks for watching!
Entertaining. But just another reason to stick with Android and avoid Apple!
Whatever "floats your boat"❗ 😎
SC with the Air 2s is useless!
So I've heard! Very Disappointing❗❗