DJI Neo 2: A Drone Journey

I've never seen myself as the drone enthusiast type. Truth be told, these devices have always intimidated me a little – they’re bulky, delicate, and carry a hefty price tag. That’s a risky combination for someone who doesn't quite have the best coordination. Yet, the allure of those beautiful aerial images and videos others seem to effortlessly capture has always piqued my interest.

DJI has persistently worked on designing a drone that is small, user-friendly, and inexpensive enough to entice novices like me. The first Neo, priced at $199, came close but was somewhat hampered by its basic obstacle avoidance and missing features such as portrait video modes. The newer models attempted to address these issues but were still a bit pricey for beginners, like the one costing $439.

Introducing the Neo 2 – a significant refinement of its predecessor. Coming in at around $280, it remains affordable compared to other options, boasting enhanced camera capabilities and better, although not flawless, obstacle avoidance. Its compact nature means you can fly it nearly anywhere with minimal worry about stringent regulations. Moreover, it captures stunning video and shots effortlessly without any controller or manual setup. It blends amusement and utility perfectly, acting both as a toy and a nifty aerial camera.

Why Choose Neo 2?

Higher-end drones might offer superior cameras, increased speed, or longer battery lives – and that’s great for some users. But for someone currently new to the drone scene, like myself, the Neo 2 is exactly what’s needed. It offers a budget-friendly, low-risk way to explore the fun of drone piloting.

Advantages

The first time I decided to put the Neo 2 to the test, I tossed it into my backpack and went for a jog, sans controller, with my phone remaining pocketed. Let's dub this scenario 'drone operation for beginners,' which aligns well with my user level.

Slightly heftier than its predecessor at a mere 151g (or 160g with an extra transceiver), it’s still a breeze to transport. Crucially, it’s below the 250g weight limit that triggers stricter regulations in many places.

Turning it on takes just a couple of button presses. From there, device controls are intuitive: side buttons let users toggle through default flight modes, while a long press tweaks parameters like height or filming angle. To launch, just hold it in your palm, tap the start button, and watch it soar.

Drawbacks

It’s worth noting that more advanced drones might offer better capabilities. For instance, the competing models have slightly better speed or battery longevity. Yet, the Neo 2 proves its mettle by being versatile enough for a balanced, enjoyable, and straightforward flying experience.

Obstacle sensing, although improved, isn't flawless. During my trial among tree branches, it occasionally snagged on lower limbs despite skillfully dodging trunks. Twice, it managed to untangle itself; however, once, it simply shut down its blades, remaining stuck until I manually collected it.

The drone’s sturdiness impressed me. It survived my clumsy mishaps without a scratch. It does lack waterproofing, so it's better kept out of rain. Meanwhile, I remain slightly anxious about the external antennas, given they require screws to detach, but they seem flexible enough to withstand challenges.

Basic flight options like Follow, Rocket, and Dronie are easily accessible, offering varied shot perspectives without needing a separate remote. Gesture controls add convenience by letting you direct the drone intuitively through simple hand movements.

Camera and Controls

Equipped with a superior camera, the Neo 2 now provides an improved aperture and frame rate, promoting remarkable video quality at both 4K and 2.7K resolutions. While it may not rival top-tier drones in cinematic quality, it handsomely delivers cell phone-comparable footage from a dynamic aerial perspective.

Moreover, the DJI Fly app enhances usability, providing comprehensive controls and customization possibilities. However, its interface could benefit from some streamlining, especially for Android users who face download hurdles due to app store restrictions.

Overall, the Neo 2 emerges as a terrific option for those exploring the drone arena. It allows both beginner and seasoned pilots to enjoy new horizons with its ease of use and casual flair. Although I might not yet be ready for high-precision FPV flying, the Neo 2 has delighted my early experiences, convincingly making me a more willing 'drone guy.'