DJI’s next ultralight drone – the DJI Mini 5 Pro – is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated releases of 2025. Recent leaks and rumors suggest game-changing upgrades, including a 1-inch camera sensor, LiDAR obstacle avoidance, and an extended 50-minute flight time, all while keeping the drone under that magic 249g weight limit. How much truth is there to these claims, and how does the Mini 5 Pro compare to the current DJI Mini 4 Pro? In this comprehensive roundup, we’ll dive into every credible leak, rumored spec, and community discussion surrounding the Mini 5 Pro. From leaked photos and video previews to insider info from Twitter/X and Reddit, here’s everything we know so far – and what it means for drone enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the DJI Mini 5 Pro release date.
Latest Leaks and Rumors at a Glance
A leaked promotional image (in Spanish) for the DJI Mini 5 Pro highlights major rumored features: **“Grabación de Audio” (audio recording), 25km alcance (25 km range), sensor LiDAR, 50 min batería (50 min flight), and cámara sensor 1” (1-inch camera sensor) dronexl.co and dronexl.co. This suggests DJI is packing significant technology upgrades into its next mini drone while maintaining the sub-250g ultralight category.
According to these leaks, the DJI Mini 5 Pro could introduce:
One-Inch Camera Sensor: A major step up from the Mini 4 Pro’s 1/1.3-inch sensor dronexl.co, potentially delivering better image quality and low-light performance. This would be the first 1″ sensor on a Mini series drone, akin to the beloved Air 2S’s camera dronedj.com.
LiDAR Obstacle Avoidance: Small LiDAR sensors on the drone for more precise obstacle detection dronedj.com. It could be the world’s first ultralight drone with LiDAR, dramatically improving obstacle avoidance especially in low light digitalcameraworld.com.
50-Minute Flight Time: Breaking the 50-min mark (likely with an extended “Plus” battery) dronedj.com, up from 45 min on the Mini 4 Pro’s Plus battery. Standard battery flight time may also improve beyond the Mini 4 Pro’s ~34 min.
25 km Transmission Range: A next-gen OcuSync system offering up to 25 km range (15.5 miles) dronexl.co, beating the Mini 4 Pro’s ~20 km max. This hints at an OcuSync 5.0 or enhanced O4 for stronger signal and live feed at distance.
Audio Recording Feature: A surprise addition – the Mini 5 Pro may support audio recording dronexl.co. This could allow pilots to capture ambient sound or narrate via the controller/phone mic, adding a new dimension to videos for content creators.
Vertical Shooting & Upward Tilt: An innovative gimbal design that can tilt the camera straight upward (looking up) – a first for the Mini series dronexl.co. Combined with true vertical shooting mode (for portrait videos), this expands creative angles for social media.
Improved Obstacle Sensing: Dual front-facing wide cameras plus two inward-facing sensors (possibly the LiDAR units) are rumored dronexl.co. In essence, the Mini 5 Pro would build on the Mini 4 Pro’s 360° vision system with even more precise detection. Expect safer “follow-me” tracking and ActiveTrack improvements thanks to this advanced sensor array and onboard AI
Enhanced Motors & Build: Leaked spy photos show vented motors, indicating improved cooling and more powerful thrust dronexl.co. DJI appears to be pushing engineering limits to add these features yet still keep weight ≤249g digitalcameraworld.com– possibly using lighter materials or redesigned batteries.
It’s important to note that these details come from leaked images and credible insiders but are not official. A promotional graphic in Spanish first appeared on social media (via @Drones19170668 on X) and was corroborated by trusted leakers like OsitaLV and Jasper Ellens dronedj.com digitalcameraworld.com. The consensus is that while some early leaks seemed “sketchy,” the overlap of information (like the LiDAR mention) lends them credibility dronedj.com. In the next sections, we’ll break down how the DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro stacks up, and what these upgrades mean in real-world terms.
Camera Upgrade: 1-Inch Sensor vs 1/1.3-Inch
One of the headline rumors is the 1-inch CMOS camera sensor on the Mini 5 Pro dronexl.co. This would be a significant leap from the DJI Mini 4 Pro’s 1/1.3″ sensor (48MP) dronexl.co theverge.com. In DJI’s lineup, a 1-inch sensor has so far been seen on larger drones like the Air 2S (which produced outstanding image quality) dronedj.com. Here’s what a 1″ sensor could mean for the Mini 5 Pro’s camera:
Better Image Quality: Larger sensor = larger pixels (if around 20MP resolution), which means improved low-light performance, dynamic range, and overall clarity. Expect cleaner night shots and more detail in shadows/highlights compared to the Mini 4 Pro’s camera.
Improved Video Resolution: The Mini 4 Pro already does 4K at 100 fps slow-motion theverge.com. With a 1″ sensor (like Air 2S), the Mini 5 Pro might support 5.4K video at 30 fps and 4K 60 fps with higher bitrates or 10-bit color. It could inherit capabilities from the Air 2S, bringing pro-level footage to the Mini line.
Optical Zoom Possibilities: Some enthusiasts speculate DJI could use a high-megapixel sensor to allow lossless digital zoom (cropping 48MP to 12MP for 4K zoom) reddit.com. While nothing concrete on zoom has leaked, a higher-quality sensor would make digital zoom more usable for close-ups without needing a separate tele lens.
Upward Shooting: The rumored gimbal tilt to look straight up opens new creative shots – you could film structures or cliffs from below, which wasn’t possible on Mini 4 Pro (its gimbal tilt was limited). This is great for architecture photographers or when flying under bridges, etc., capturing angles previously impossible with a Mini drone dronexl.co.
Overall, if the 1-inch sensor rumor holds true, the DJI Mini 5 Pro’s camera would rival much larger drones, offering near Air 2S-level image quality in a tiny package dronedj.com. For context, the Mini 4 Pro’s 1/1.3″ sensor is excellent for its size, but a 1″ sensor could bring better low-light and detail – a big draw for aerial photographers who prefer traveling light. As one forum user put it, “1 inch sensor will motivate me to finally upgrade from my badass Mini 3 Pro!” reddit.com. It seems DJI is aiming to blur the line between “beginner drone” and professional camera drone with this upgrade.
Obstacle Avoidance: LiDAR + Vision vs Traditional Sensors
The DJI Mini 4 Pro made headlines by being the first Mini with omnidirectional obstacle sensing, using binocular vision cameras front, back, and on the sides (angled) to avoid obstacles theverge.com theverge.com. However, even its optical sensors have limitations, especially in low light or detecting thin objects (like tree branches or wires). Enter the Mini 5 Pro’s rumored LiDAR sensors.
What is LiDAR? LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) uses laser pulses to measure distance very precisely. It doesn’t rely on ambient light, so it can work in the dark and detect subtle obstacles that camera-based systems might miss. According to leaks, the Mini 5 Pro has two small black sensors believed to be LiDAR modules embedded alongside its normal vision sensors dronexl.co. If true, this would make it the world’s first ultralight drone with LiDAR for obstacle avoidance digitalcameraworld.com.
Why is this a big deal? For a sub-250g drone, adding LiDAR could dramatically improve flight safety and autonomous tracking:
Better Obstacle Detection: LiDAR would allow the Mini 5 Pro to “see” obstacles in darkness or complex environments where the Mini 4 Pro’s cameras struggle. As one user noted, the Mini 4’s optical sensors are nearly useless in low light – “with LiDAR this would be insane” reddit.com Imagine more confident night flights or indoor flights with fewer crashes.
Precision in Follow-Me/ActiveTrack: If the drone is tracking you biking through a forest, LiDAR can help it judge distances and avoid twigs or small branches that a normal camera might not register. This means ActiveTrack (currently version 5.0 on the Mini 4 Pro) could get even smarter, possibly upgrading to ActiveTrack 6.0 with improved subject lock-on and obstacle bypass. DJI appears to be “focusing heavily on AI-powered tracking” in the Mini 5 Pro dronexl.co.
Upward/Rear Sensors? The leaks only showed LiDAR on the front (and possibly rear) of the drone dronedj.com. While optical cameras on the Mini 4 Pro already cover most directions, LiDAR could supplement them. It’s unclear if LiDAR will also cover upward sensing (to avoid ceilings) – none of the Mini series have had dedicated upward sensors. But even forward-facing LiDAR that scans in 3D could help with frontal and lateral avoidance significantly.
Engineering Feat Under 249g: Cramming LiDAR hardware into a Mini drone is challenging due to weight. DJI’s solution seems to involve vented motors (stronger but lightweight) and possibly a lighter battery or body dronexl.co digitalcameraworld.com. Keeping it at 249g while adding tech is “a significant engineering achievement” dronexl.co, and shows DJI’s determination to push the envelope in the Mini category.
Leaked photos (albeit blurry) show the Mini 5 Pro’s front with those extra sensors, hinting at the LiDAR integration dronexl.co. Some skeptics in the community initially thought these might just be additional optical sensors or “clickbait” rumors, doubting DJI could pull off LiDAR on a Mini reddit.com loyaltydrones.com. However, the fact that reliable insiders like Jasper Ellens and OsitaLV have acknowledged the LiDAR leak lends it weight dronedj.com digitalcameraworld.com. Jasper himself said he was “extremely skeptical… but today I stand corrected. This summer we will see a new Mini with LiDAR and stronger motors”digitalcameraworld.com. In short, the Mini 5 Pro may set a new standard for obstacle avoidance in small drones, potentially outshining even some larger models when it comes to sensing and avoiding collisions.
Flight Time and Battery Life
Drone pilots know that every extra minute of flight counts. The DJI Mini 4 Pro offers about 34 minutes of flight with the standard battery, and up to 45 minutes with the heavier Plus battery (which pushes it over 249g) theverge.com dji.com. Rumors suggest the Mini 5 Pro will push flight times even further, possibly achieving 50 minutes aloft with a new high-capacity battery dronedj.com.
Here’s what we know and speculate about the Mini 5 Pro’s endurance:
“50 Min Batería” Leak: The leaked spec graphic explicitly lists 50 min battery, which likely refers to maximum flight time with an Intelligent Flight Battery Plus
. Breaking the 50-minute barrier would make the Mini 5 Pro one of DJI’s longest-flying consumer drones. For comparison, the Mini 4 Pro Plus battery tops out at 45 min in ideal conditions
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Standard Battery Improvement: While 50 min almost certainly involves the Plus battery (and thus a takeoff weight over 249g), we can expect the standard battery flight time to improve as well. Even a 10-15% boost would mean roughly 38-40 minutes on the regular pack (up from 34 min). This might be achieved via more efficient motors and electronics. DroneDJ notes the Mini 5 Pro will “likely improve” on the Mini 4’s 35 min standard time
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Battery Compatibility: One question among users is whether the Mini 5 Pro will use the same batteries as the Mini 3/4 series or introduce new ones. If DJI increased capacity (for 50 min), they may need a new Plus battery design – perhaps higher density cells or slightly higher voltage. However, new batteries could disappoint current Mini owners if backwards compatibility is broken. No leak confirms this yet, so it remains speculation.
Charging and Endurance Tech: DJI might include faster charging or better battery management on the Mini 5 Pro. Also, improved motors and aerodynamics can make the drone more power-efficient. The leaked info about “enhanced motors” and possibly weight savings could mean the drone squeezes more airtime without simply having a bigger battery
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It’s worth noting that the 50-minute claim may not apply under the 249g limit – likely the drone with a Plus battery will weigh ~290g (similar to previous Plus batteries) reddit.com reddit.com. So pilots in regions with 250g registration limits might have to stick with the standard battery for legal ultralight operation. Still, even 35-40 min under 249g is amazing performance. On the flip side, if you need maximum endurance for a project, popping in the Plus battery for 50 min flights could be a game-changer (with the trade-off of registering the drone in those cases).
Community reactions to the flight time rumor range from excitement to healthy skepticism. Some are amazed at the idea of 50 minutes in such a small drone, while others point out the leak didn’t explicitly say “50 min under 250g” reddit.com. It “only says you can get a 50 minute flight time” reddit.com– implying the heavier battery usage. In any case, the Mini 5 Pro is poised to set a new benchmark for flight time in the mini drone class, giving pilots more freedom to capture the shots they need without rushing home to swap batteries.
Transmission Range and Controllers
The Mini 4 Pro introduced DJI’s O4 transmission system, doubling the range over the Mini 3 Pro. It boasts up to 20 km range (FCC) and improved signal stability theverge.com. If leaks are accurate, the Mini 5 Pro will push the range to 25 km dronexl.co– an unprecedented distance for a drone under 250g.
What this likely means:
OcuSync 5.0: DJI may debut OcuSync 5.0 (O5) with the Mini 5 Pro to achieve that 25 km spec. Each generation of DJI’s transmission tech improves range and bandwidth. O5 could allow a more robust 1080p live feed at long distances and better penetration in interference-heavy areas. While 25 km (about 15.5 miles) is far beyond visual line of sight (and not legal to fly in most cases), it speaks to a stronger signal quality. In urban use, a stronger system means fewer dropouts even at closer ranges.
New Controller? The Mini 4 Pro is compatible with the DJI RC-N2 (standard controller) and the DJI RC 2 (with built-in screen), both of which use O4. For O5, DJI might release updated controllers or possibly firmware-upgrade the RC 2 if the hardware supports it. If a DJI RC 3 comes, it could ship with the Mini 5 Pro – though there’s no specific rumor on a new controller, aside from speculation since a new transmission system usually pairs with new hardware.
Real-World Range: 25 km in FCC mode (USA) might translate to ~12 km in CE mode (Europe), if the pattern holds (O4 was 20km FCC / 10km CE) dji.com. Regardless, it’s plenty. The benefit for users is a more reliable connection and possibly lower latency. This helps not just for long distance flights, but also for things like high bitrate video transmission for smoother FPV view.
Video Streaming & Audio: An interesting aspect is the rumored audio recording feature dronexl.co. Perhaps the Mini 5 Pro might also transmit audio from the drone’s environment or from the pilot’s microphone back to the controller/phone. DJI could integrate this into the DJI Fly app so that commentary or ambient sound is synced with the cached video on your phone. This is speculative, but an improved transmission system could handle a low bandwidth audio channel in addition to video. Some older DJI drones allowed recording sound via the mobile device’s mic (for narration on quickshots). The leak explicitly lists “Audio Recording”, which suggests DJI is considering the needs of vloggers and content creators who might want to record reactions or narrations while flying.
Overall, expect the Mini 5 Pro to have rock-solid connectivity. Whether you’re flying a backyard hyperlapse or pushing the range in a rural landscape (with a spotter, of course), the drone should maintain its feed better than any Mini before. The DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro in this department is a clear win for the Mini 5 if 25 km holds true – that’s a 25% increase in max range spec dronexl.co theverge.com.
Design and Build: What Leaked Photos Show
At first glance, leaked images indicate the Mini 5 Pro’s design closely resembles the Mini 4 Pro dronexl.co. DJI isn’t expected to reinvent the wheel here – the Mini series has a well-honed folding design for maximum portability. However, there are a few notable differences hinted by the rumors:
Added Sensors: The front of the Mini 5 Pro sports what looks like the usual pair of “bug-eye” vision cameras (for 3D sensing), but with additional black circles inboard – these are presumably the LiDAR sensors or extra obstacle cameras dronexl.co. They’re subtle and don’t dramatically change the drone’s appearance, but eagle-eyed observers will spot more “eyes” on the Mini 5. The bottom is expected to have the customary downward sensors and an LED light for landing, similar to Mini 4 Pro (which had a downward auxiliary light). The leak mentions precision landing sensors and an LED illumination system for safe landings in low light dronexl.co.
Vented Motors: Photos from a December 2024 leak showed the drone’s motors with a new vented design dronexl.co. This likely helps cool the motors if they’re working harder (due to more weight or higher output). It might also indicate stronger motors for better wind resistance. The Mini 4 Pro is pretty stable, but a Mini 5 with beefier motors could handle wind gusts even more confidently and potentially fly a bit faster (though top speed in Sport mode on Mini 4 Pro is already 16 m/s or ~35 mph dji.com).
Physical Size: From what we can tell, the Mini 5 Pro’s dimensions seem similar to the Mini 4. It still has two front arms and two rear arms folding in the same style, with small landing feet on the body and arm tips dronexl.co. The weight is confirmed to target <249g takeoff with standard battery digitalcameraworld.com. So, any design tweaks are subtle – DJI wouldn’t want to significantly enlarge the drone as that could push it out of the weight class. The rumored upgrades are more about internal components than overall shape.
Color and Aesthetics: Expect the same light gray color DJI uses on its consumer drones. The leaked Spanish promo image shows a white/gray Mini 5 Pro with “MINI 5 PRO” label on the arm, very much like the Mini 4 Pro’s branding. One fun detail: the number “5” on the leaked graphic looked slightly odd to some (leading a few to question if the image was doctored)
. It had a glow effect and was darker, but this could just be a stylistic choice in the marketing material. Overall, the Mini 5 Pro should look like a close cousin to the Mini 4 Pro – the changes are under the hood.
Controller Designators: The drone will likely be sold in similar combos as before – stand-alone, with RC-N2, or with DJI RC 2 (if those remain the standard). If a new RC unit appears for OcuSync 5, that could be a design change outside the drone itself. So far, leaks haven’t shown a new controller body, so DJI might keep the current ones (and just update firmware).
In summary, the DJI Mini 5 Pro’s design evolution is subtle but purposeful. DJI is refining an already successful formula: same compact foldable frame, but integrating new tech like LiDAR and cooling vents. As one leak report put it, the Mini 5 “maintains the Mini series’ characteristic form factor…closely resembling the Mini 4 Pro’s design while incorporating these new features.” dronexl.co For many, that’s great news – it means all existing Mini accessories (cases, prop guards, etc.) will likely still fit, and you get the new capabilities without sacrificing the pocket-sized convenience.
The DJI Mini 4 Pro, launched in late 2023, refined the Mini design with omnidirectional vision sensors (“bug eyes” on every side) and improved tech like O4 transmission theverge.com theverge.com. The upcoming Mini 5 Pro appears to keep this overall design, while adding internal upgrades like a bigger camera and LiDAR sensors.
🗓️ Expected Release Date and Pricing
So when can you actually get your hands on the DJI Mini 5 Pro, and how much will it cost? Here’s what the rumor mill and past DJI release patterns suggest:
Release Date: Multiple sources point to a summer 2025 release window for the Mini 5 Pro dronedj.com digitalcameraworld.com. DJI tends to update its Mini series roughly every 1.5 to 2 years. The Mini 4 Pro was released in September 2023, so a summer ’25 timeline puts around a 22-month gap, which sounds plausible. In fact, reliable leaker Jasper Ellens indicated “this summer we will see a new Mini” digitalcameraworld.com , and DroneDJ also noted a summer to fall 2025 launch likelihood, betting on summer dronedj.com. Some community members speculated an announcement in summer and shipping by fall – but most signs point to mid-2025. As of now (March 2025), no official teaser has been dropped by DJI, but keep an eye out as we approach late Q2. DJI often hints at events or has FCC database leaks a few weeks before launch.
Pricing Speculation: Given the rumored advanced features, expect the Mini 5 Pro to be pricier than the Mini 4 Pro. The Mini 4 Pro launched at $759 USD (with the standard RC-N2 controller) uavcoach.com. With a 1-inch sensor, LiDAR, etc., the Mini 5 Pro could easily command a premium. Industry watchers speculate a starting price around $849 to $999 depending on the package. One detailed leak roundup suggested around $899 as a base price loyaltydrones.com. This would position it just below the Air 3 (which is around $999) and above the Mini 4 Pro. It makes sense – DJI will market this as the ultimate ultralight drone, so a ~$150 bump for the tech isn’t surprising. Of course, if there are multiple bundles (Fly More Combo, with DJI RC 2, etc.), the top-end kit could exceed $1K.
Why the Higher Price: New hardware like a 1” CMOS and LiDAR sensors aren’t cheap. Also, the Mini 5 Pro could potentially cannibalize some Air 3 or even Mavic sales, so DJI might price it to slot appropriately. It’s still likely to be cheaper than the larger drones – part of the Mini series appeal is relatively affordable access to high-end features. But don’t expect Mini 2 prices; this is a “Pro” model packed with flagship capabilities.
Pre-order and Availability: If the announcement comes in summer (say June or July 2025), DJI might open pre-orders immediately with shipping in a few weeks after. Availability should be global (DJI typically does simultaneous worldwide releases for major products). However, initial stock could be limited if there’s high demand or if any component shortages occur. Considering how eagerly people are waiting (some skipped the Mini 4 Pro entirely to wait for the 5 reddit.com), you might want to jump on pre-orders if you’re convinced this drone is for you.
Official Confirmation Wait: Until DJI officially announces it, take pricing with a grain of salt. The company could surprise us – either by keeping price in line with Mini 4 Pro despite upgrades (to stay competitive) or by bundling things differently. For example, they might include the better controller by default, which would raise the package cost. As leaks firm up closer to release, we’ll update with more concrete info on cost.
Bottom line: Mark your calendars for summer 2025 and start saving up. The DJI Mini 5 Pro release date isn’t set in stone, but credible leaks say it’s a few months away. And if the rumored specs pan out, DJI likely believes consumers will pay a bit extra for the unprecedented combo of features in such a small drone.
DJI Mini 5 Pro vs. DJI Mini 4 Pro: Spec Comparison
How big of an upgrade is the Mini 5 Pro over the Mini 4 Pro? Based on leaks, here’s a side-by-side comparison of key features to highlight the evolution:
Weight: Both Mini 4 Pro and Mini 5 Pro are <249g (with standard battery) digitalcameraworld.com dji.com. The Mini 5 will maintain this ultralight category, which is crucial for many users to avoid drone registration in certain countries.
Camera: Mini 4 Pro has a 1/1.3″ 48MP sensor (24mm equiv lens, f/1.7) theverge.com. Mini 5 Pro is rumored to have a 1″ sensor (likely ~20MP, possibly f/2.0-f/2.8). This is a big jump in sensor size dronexl.co. Expect better image quality, and possibly features like 10-bit D-Log video or higher resolution footage. Both have fixed-aperture lenses and support things like HDR, panoramas, etc., but the Mini 5’s larger sensor will excel in image clarity and night shots.
Video Performance: Mini 4 Pro can do up to 4K 100fps (slow motion) and 1080p 200fps, with D-Cine like 10-bit color profile. It also introduced 4K active HDR video theverge.com. The Mini 5 Pro with its new chipset (implied by new features) might do 4K 120fps for even smoother slow-motion, and possibly 5.2K or 5.4K recording as seen on Air 2S dronedj.com. No explicit leak on the exact video spec, but it should at least match and likely exceed the Mini 4 in frame rates and bitrate. Both will have “True Vertical Shooting” (portrait mode); however, Mini 5’s upward gimbal tilt will allow creative angles the Mini 4 can’t do dronexl.co.
Obstacle Avoidance: Mini 4 Pro: Omnidirectional (forward, backward, lateral, downward) vision system – effectively ActiveTrack 5.0 with APAS (Advanced Pilot Assistance) for automatic obstacle bypass theverge.com . Mini 5 Pro: Advanced obstacle sensing with LiDAR + vision dronexl.co . This should outperform the Mini 4 in precision and low-light obstacle avoidance. The Mini 5 could be the first Mini to truly avoid obstacles in all directions even in tougher environments. Both have downward sensors for landing; Mini 5 adds improved precision landing and a landing light dronexl.co.
Flight Time: Mini 4 Pro: 34 min (standard battery), 45 min (Plus battery) dji.com. Mini 5 Pro: ~38 min (estimated standard) & ~50 min (Plus, leaked) dronedj.com. So roughly a 10-15% boost in endurance. This is one area that’s an incremental upgrade – but still notable for long-duration needs.
Range/Transmission: Mini 4 Pro: OcuSync 4, range up to 20 km FCC theverge.com. Mini 5 Pro: likely OcuSync 5, range up to 25 km FCC dronexl.co. Both stream 1080p live feed to the remote. Mini 5’s signal will be more robust with that extra range headroom. In congested areas, it might hold a link where a Mini 4 could struggle.
Controllers: Mini 4 Pro uses DJI RC-N2 or DJI RC 2. Mini 5 Pro will presumably support the DJI RC 2 and maybe a new RC if OcuSync 5 needs it. The form factor and UX should remain the same (no leaks of new controller design yet). If you already have a DJI RC 2 from a Mini 4 or Air 3, it might work with the Mini 5 after firmware updates – that would be a nice cost-saving for upgraders.
Intelligent Flight Modes: Both have the full DJI Fly feature set: QuickShots, MasterShots, Hyperlapse, Panorama, ActiveTrack, Point of Interest, etc. The difference could be in advancements like ActiveTrack 6.0 on Mini 5 (speculating since LiDAR can aid tracking moving subjects) and possibly new AI modes. For instance, DJI could introduce an even better subject recovery if it’s temporarily lost behind an obstacle, using LiDAR + predictive algorithms. The Mini 4 Pro is already very smart, but the Mini 5 Pro might be marketed as even smarter – “fly as if it has a brain,” that kind of idea, given the AI emphasis dronexl.co.
Audio and Other Features: Mini 4 Pro does not record audio. Mini 5 Pro will have audio recording (as leaked) dronexl.co. It’s unclear how exactly it’s implemented – it could record ambient sounds via the drone’s internal mic (if it has one) or more likely via the connected phone’s mic in the Fly app. This is aimed at content creators who want to add commentary. It’s a minor feature, but a novel one for DJI drones. Additionally, the Mini 5 might have other small improvements like better wind resistance, new flight modes, or enhanced Return-to-Home accuracy due to the sensor suite. The core GPS and compass hardware will be similar, but algorithms could improve with more data from LiDAR and camera.
Price: Mini 4 Pro starts $759 (standard kit) uavcoach.com. Mini 5 Pro expected around $849-$899 base. We covered pricing earlier – essentially you’re paying a bit more for the upgrades. If one were to compare value, the Mini 4 Pro is already excellent at its price; the Mini 5 Pro will be targeting those who are okay paying extra for the latest tech and the bragging rights of features like a 1″ sensor in a mini drone.
To sum up, the DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro comparison shows significant advancements rather than minor tweaks. The camera and obstacle avoidance upgrades alone put the Mini 5 Pro in a different league – potentially even challenging higher-tier drones. As a DroneXL analysis put it, these features represent “significant technological advancements while maintaining the crucial sub-250g weight class”dronexl.co. In other words, DJI is giving the Mini series some pro-level treatment, making the gap between a Mini and something like an Air series smaller than ever.
Whether these are “must-haves” depends on your needs. Photographers hungry for the best image quality will love the 1″ sensor. Mountain bikers and action sports users will appreciate tougher obstacle avoidance. Travelers might simply want the longest flight time and strongest signal. If those apply to you, the Mini 5 Pro is gearing up to offer major improvements over the Mini 4 Pro. If not, the Mini 4 Pro remains a fantastic drone that already set a high bar last year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Q: What are the rumored specs of the DJI Mini 5 Pro?
A: The DJI Mini 5 Pro is rumored to feature a 1-inch camera sensor, LiDAR obstacle avoidance sensors, ~50 minute max flight time (with Plus battery), ~25 km max transmission range (OcuSync 5.0), and new capabilities like vertical shooting with upward gimbal tilt and audio recording dronexl.co dronexl.co. It will remain under 249g with the standard battery digitalcameraworld.com . In essence, it’s like packing prosumer drone features (better camera, smarter obstacle sensing, longer flight) into the ultralight Mini series.
2. Q: How does the DJI Mini 5 Pro compare to the DJI Mini 4 Pro?
A: The Mini 5 Pro is a notable upgrade over the Mini 4 Pro. Key differences: a larger 1″ sensor vs 1/1.3″ on the Mini 4 Pro (better image quality) dronexl.co , LiDAR + vision obstacle avoidance vs purely vision-based on Mini 4 (better obstacle detection especially in low light) dronedj.com, about 10-15% longer flight time (50 min vs 45 min max) dronedj.com, and a stronger transmission (25 km vs 20 km range) dronexl.co theverge.com . Both are under 249g and have similar form factors. The Mini 5 Pro also adds new features like audio recording and upward gimbal tilt for shooting, which the Mini 4 Pro lacks. Overall, the Mini 5 Pro offers significant advancements in camera and navigation tech, whereas the Mini 4 Pro was more of an incremental refinement of the Mini 3 Pro.
3. Q: Will the DJI Mini 5 Pro still be under 250 grams?
A: Yes – all information indicates the Mini 5 Pro is designed to stay within the 249g weight limit (with the standard battery) digitalcameraworld.com . This is crucial because 250g is the cutoff for registration in many countries. DJI has reportedly managed to include the new features (LiDAR, bigger camera) while keeping the drone ultralight by using engineering solutions like vented motors and possibly lightweight materials dronexl.co . However, if you use a high-capacity “Plus” battery for 50 min flights, the drone will exceed 249g (as with previous Minis). Under 250g, expect slightly shorter flight time but all other features intact. So yes, the Mini 5 Pro will retain the Mini series’ hallmark of being sub-250g ready to fly.
4. Q: Does the Mini 5 Pro really have LiDAR? How will that work?
A: That’s what credible leaks suggest – LiDAR sensors on the Mini 5 Pro for obstacle avoidance dronexl.co . It would be the first drone of its size to have LiDAR. Likely, there are small LiDAR modules on the front (and maybe rear) that emit laser pulses to measure distance to obstacles. This data would complement the visual sensors, giving the drone a precise 3D map of its surroundings. In practical terms, LiDAR would make obstacle avoidance more reliable (e.g., detecting thin branches or low-light obstacles) and improve tracking of subjects by better gauging their distance and preventing collisions. DJI already uses LiDAR on some higher-end products (and reportedly planned it for an Air 3S) digitalcameraworld.com , so they have experience. On the Mini 5 Pro, it means you can trust its APAS (advanced pilot assistance) to brake or bypass obstacles in situations that would stump the Mini 4 Pro. It’s a big leap in drone autonomy for the ultralight class.
5. Q: What camera improvements can we expect from the DJI Mini 5 Pro?
A: The camera is rumored to have a 1-inch CMOS sensor, which should greatly improve image and video quality dronexl.co . Expect better low-light performance, higher dynamic range, and possibly the ability to shoot 5.4K video (if it uses a sensor similar to the Air 2S) dronedj.com. Colors and detail will be richer, and noise levels in nighttime or indoor shots will be lower compared to the Mini 4 Pro’s camera. The larger sensor likely means a slightly narrower field of view (if it’s the same 22mm equiv lens as Air 2S) but with more background blur. Additionally, the Mini 5 Pro’s gimbal can reportedly tilt upward 90°dronexl.co , allowing for unique compositions (like capturing tall buildings or trees from below). Photographers and videographers will also enjoy features like 10-bit color profiles (D-Log M or D-Cinelike) for better post-processing, which the Mini 4 Pro already has, presumably carried over or improved. In short, the Mini 5 Pro’s camera should rival prosumer drones, making it possibly the best camera ever on a drone under 250g.
6. Q: When is the DJI Mini 5 Pro release date?
A: It’s expected to be announced or released in Summer 2025 according to multiple leakers dronedj.com digitalcameraworld.com. DJI hasn’t officially confirmed this, but historically, they like to launch products in spring or summer if ready. Jasper Ellens (a reputable source) mentioned a summer 2025 timeframedigitalcameraworld.com , and DroneDJ speculated a summer to early fall release with a preference toward summer dronedj.com . So, June to August 2025 is a good bet for the reveal, with availability possibly shortly after. Keep an eye out for DJI’s typical launch event teasers around that time. Until then, these are unofficial timelines – but the consistency among insider reports makes summer likely.
7. Q: How much will the DJI Mini 5 Pro cost?
A: Pricing hasn’t been confirmed, but rumors and analysts suggest the Mini 5 Pro will be a bit more expensive than the Mini 4 Pro. The Mini 4 Pro started at $759 (standard kit) uavcoach.com. Given the Mini 5 Pro’s advanced features, a starting price around $849 to $899 is anticipated loyaltydrones.com . Some sources float $899 as a likely point for the base package (drone + RC-N2 controller), with higher tiers (e.g., with DJI RC 2 screen controller or Fly More combo with extra batteries) going over $1000. Essentially, you might pay an extra ~$100-$150 for the upgrades. It’s still expected to be cheaper than bigger drones like the Air 3 or Mavic series. DJI also tends to adjust pricing by region, but in USD, ~$850-900 is a reasonable guess for the entry package. We’ll know for sure once DJI makes it official – but if you’re budgeting, assume around $900 to start, and more if you want the works.
8. Q: Will the Mini 5 Pro have better ActiveTrack and autonomous features?
A: Very likely, yes. With improved obstacle sensing (LiDAR + cameras) and DJI’s emphasis on AI tracking for this model dronexl.co, the Mini 5 Pro should take ActiveTrack to the next level. The Mini 4 Pro already has ActiveTrack 5.0, which can do things like follow from different angles and re-identify subjects if they reappear. The Mini 5 Pro could introduce ActiveTrack 6.0, potentially offering smoother tracking, less likelihood of losing the subject, and more advanced path planning to dodge obstacles. The leaks mention “AI-powered tracking” and greater autonomy dronexl.co , implying the drone might handle complex follow scenarios with minimal input. Also, features like Spotlight (camera locked on subject while you fly freely) and Point of Interest (orbiting a subject) will benefit from the better sensing – the Mini 5 Pro can circle closer or venture a bit more, knowing it has an additional safety net in LiDAR. We might even see new modes (imagine a “super follow” where the drone can navigate through gaps or under canopies following you). Until the product is out, we can’t say exactly, but yes – expect smarter autonomous flight modes on Mini 5 Pro, making it an even more capable aerial camera crew for your adventures.
9. Q: Is the DJI Mini 5 Pro going to make the Air 3 or other drones obsolete?
A: Not exactly – each drone line has its purpose. The Mini 5 Pro is pushing the envelope for ultralight drones, but there will still be reasons to choose an Air or Mavic series. For instance, the DJI Air 3 (and a future Air 3S) are larger drones that can carry dual cameras (wide + tele lenses), have even stronger wind resistance, and possibly longer continuous shooting (Air 3 can do 46 min on one battery). The Mavic series (e.g., Mavic 3 Pro) goes further with micro 4/3 sensors, multiple lenses, and pro-grade features for high-end filmmaking. The Mini 5 Pro, even with a 1″ sensor, likely won’t have optical zoom or the absolute image quality of a Mavic 3’s Hasselblad camera. It’s also constrained by weight – in very strong winds, a heavier drone will be more stable. That said, for many enthusiasts, the Mini 5 Pro could narrow the gap enough that they won’t need to shell out for a larger drone. Its portability is unbeatable. If you don’t need the extra features of an Air/Mavic (like the tele camera or 4K120 on a big sensor, etc.), the Mini 5 Pro might cover 90% of your needs in a cheaper, smaller package. So, it won’t make other drones obsolete, but it will certainly raise the bar for what we expect from the “mini” category. It’s possible some potential Air 3 buyers might opt for a Mini 5 Pro instead if they prioritize size and similar camera performance. DJI likely strategizes these releases so they complement rather than kill each other – hence pricing and feature differences. In short: Mini 5 Pro will be revolutionary for its size, but larger drones will still offer the absolute top-end performance (at the cost of size and price).
10. Q: Should I wait for the DJI Mini 5 Pro or buy the Mini 4 Pro now?
A: This ultimately depends on your situation and needs. If you urgently need a drone or have projects in the next few months, the DJI Mini 4 Pro is an excellent choice right now – it’s a proven drone with great obstacle avoidance, image quality (1/1.3″ 48MP is still very good), and all the latest flight features theverge.com theverge.com . It’s available and you can start flying today. On the other hand, if you’re not in a rush and the leaked Mini 5 Pro features have you drooling (and you have the budget for a higher price point), it’s reasonable to wait. Summer 2025 is not too far, and you’ll likely get a substantially more capable drone for those few months of patience. Ask yourself: Do you frequently fly in challenging scenarios like low light or complex environments where LiDAR would save the day? Do you often wish for longer flight times? Are you after the best possible image quality in a tiny drone for professional use? If yes, waiting could be worth it. However, note that after release, it might take a few weeks to ship, and initial firmware might need updates (early adopters sometimes deal with minor bugs). If you’re comfortable with that, the Mini 5 Pro could be incredibly rewarding. As one Redditor wisely said, “There’s always going to be something better” next – at some point you have to jump in and enjoy what’s available reddit.com. The Mini 4 Pro won’t suddenly become bad when the 5 comes out; it will still be a great drone, likely at a lower price then. But if you want the cutting edge and can wait a bit, the Mini 5 Pro promises to be one of the most advanced drones in its class we’ve ever seen.
Conclusion: A New Era for Ultralight Drones?
The DJI Mini 5 Pro leaks paint a picture of a truly groundbreaking drone. If the rumors hold, DJI is about to deliver an ultralight marvel that punches well above its weight. A drone under 250g with a 1-inch sensor, LiDAR obstacle avoidance, 50 minutes of flight, and 25km range sounds almost too good to be true – yet multiple credible sources have aligned on these details dronexl.co digitalcameraworld.com. It represents the convergence of DJI’s cutting-edge tech into the beloved Mini form factor, effectively shrinking a “pro” drone into the size (and legal category) of a palm-sized flyer.
For drone enthusiasts and professionals alike, the Mini 5 Pro could be a game-changer. Photographers can travel extra light without compromising on image quality. Filmmakers and YouTubers get a stealthy little drone that can still produce cinematic shots and even capture audio for vlogs. Hobbyists gain more safety and confidence with improved obstacle avoidance and flight range. And importantly, many pilots can continue to enjoy relaxed regulations by flying a drone that’s just 249 grams yet doesn’t force them to sacrifice high-end features.
Of course, until DJI officially announces the Mini 5 Pro, we have to temper our excitement. Some specs might change, or the actual product might differ slightly from leaks. But given DJI’s track record and the consistency of information so far, it’s looking very likely that the Mini 5 Pro will offer significant advancements rather than minor upgrades over the Mini 4 Pro. This isn’t just an incremental refresh; it feels like DJI pushing the limits to redefine what a mini drone can do.
Now, all eyes turn to DJI for the confirmation. Will they unveil the Mini 5 Pro in a grand summer launch event? We’ll be watching. In the meantime, if you own a Mini 4 Pro or something older, start thinking about what these new features could do for you. And if you’re new to drones, you picked an exciting time to join the hobby!
Stay tuned for more updates on the DJI Mini 5 Pro – we will update this post as soon as official news drops or more leaks surface. If you’re as excited as we are, consider sharing this roundup with fellow drone enthusiasts. And drop a comment: Which rumored Mini 5 Pro feature are you most excited about? Is it the 1″ sensor, the LiDAR, the 50-min flight time, or something else? Let us know! By engaging with our blog and community, you’ll ensure you never miss the latest on DJI’s upcoming releases. Until the next leak or the big reveal, happy flying (or patiently waiting)! 🛸✨
