For one of the best flying experiences you need a solid controller. DJI has just announced the Smart Controller for the Mavic 2 Pro and Zoom. While featuring many of the same features and functions as the original controller, including OcuSync 2.0, the Smart Controller adds one key item: a 5.5” 1080p screen. This display is extremely bright, up to 1000 cd/m^2 that makes it easy to see even in bright light. Automatic switching between 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz will ensure crystal clear imagery and ranges of up to 5 miles. Adventurous drone pilots will appreciate its durability and ability to work in temperatures ranging from -4 to 104 degrees F.
That isn’t all for the Smart Controller. A new Go Share function in the DJI GO 4 mobile app makes it easy to transfer photos and videos to your smartphone or tablet. You can also customize the Android-based OS for faster operation and it can support third-party apps for instant sharing or in-depth editing. A Built-in microphone and speaker furthers the controller’s usefulness by allowing playback of videos via the HDMI port at 4K60 using H.264 or H.265 codecs. Also, a SkyTalk option makes it easy to livestream and share footage from your drone’s camera. And, finally, the 5000mAh battery will keep the controller running for up to 2.5 hours.
Is this a solid addition to your Mavic 2 Kit? Make sure to leave a comment with your thoughts below! For more information on the Smart Controller or additional coverage of CES 2019 be sure to follow B&H Explora.
6 Comments
If I did my math right, the controller is adding $550 to the cost of the package when included with an M2...meaning, it's $100 cheaper when purchased with a drone.
So...now if you're getting the controller with the drone, you're only paying $100 more than a 5.5" CrystalSky and getting all of the benefits of setting up one device, charging one device, no cables, etc.
Someone confirm it please, but I believe the smart controller is also supposed to support bluetooth (which the CrystalSky does not), which will allow it to work with other controllers in the future, such as the Fluidity Aviator.
I think the pricing works.
Although some might not need something like this, I don't like the idea of needing an extra piece of equipment (a phone) to do the same thing that can be easily done with a controller. In order to fly, I either have to use my current phone (sacrificing battery life and making the phone less useful when it is used as a controller) or using an old phone, which is another piece of equipment that must be charged, maintained, etc. Other than keeping the cost down, I never understood the concept of having a controller that can't do everything needed to monitor and control the aircraft. To me, it is like having a camera without a viewfinder and requiring a phone to see the image, and be able to control the camera. Sure, it works, but I like the single package, dedicated approach for professional work.
Apparently, since it has an HDMI output, you can use it with Epson AR glasses (like the BT-35E) ... plus the screen is as bright as a CrystalSky 5.5" - substantially brighter than most phones. It's also outputting HDMI at 4K at 60fps, which you phone won't be able to do (and still fly the drone). Since the CrystalSky is $450, m2 controllers go for around $300 and this is $650, it's basically like getting a controller and 5.5 crystalsky for a little less.
What can this Smart Controller do that a regular combo of stock controller + phone can't? (What is the point of buying this new smart controller?)
To fill up the CEOs account, theres really nothing else that makes sense with this...
If you can get it with the drone as a package (instead of the current controller) that would be great! If you have to buy it separately then it depends on whether you have or want to use a phone. If you want an all in one solution this is it (which I prefer and hope is optional to the current one in the kit).