DJI Mini 5 Pro vs Mini 4 Pro: The Ultimate Comparison Guide

The DJI Mini 4 Pro set a new standard for sub-250g drones in 2023. But in typical DJI fashion, they have raised the bar again. The new DJI Mini 5 Pro is not just an upgrade. It is a transformation, aimed at creators and professionals who want more from their ultra-light setup.

This guide breaks down the differences between the Mini 5 Pro and the Mini 4 Pro across camera performance, gimbal mechanics, obstacle sensing, tracking, and more, helping you make the right decision based on how and where you fly.

Image Quality

Image quality is often the biggest differentiator for drone users, especially those producing content in challenging light. The Mini 4 Pro features a 1/1.3-inch sensor capable of excellent 4K HDR video, perfect for daytime content and balanced lighting scenarios.

The Mini 5 Pro, however, steps things up with a larger 1-inch CMOS sensor, similar to what you would find in higher-end models like the Air 3S. This brings:

• Better low-light clarity
• More cinematic dynamic range
• Cleaner shadows and highlights

If you are filming at sunrise, sunset or under city lights, the Mini 5 Pro will produce noticeably richer, more detailed footage.

Gimbal Movement and Framing

Framing is crucial, especially when capturing content for vertical-first platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

The Mini 4 Pro introduced true vertical shooting, giving users authentic 9:16 output without needing to crop or rotate footage.

The Mini 5 Pro builds on this with a 225° rotating gimbal, unlocking more creative possibilities including:

• Wide-angle roll movement
• Enhanced flexibility in automated shooting modes
• Better upward and low-angle compositions

It also adds 48mm Med-Tele mode, which lets you frame subjects more tightly with a natural cinematic feel, all without flying too close.

Obstacle Avoidance and Night Flight

Obstacle sensing plays a major role in how confident you can be during complex or low-visibility flights.

The Mini 4 Pro features full omnidirectional vision sensors, offering reliable protection in daylight conditions.

The Mini 5 Pro adds an edge with LiDAR-assisted night vision, operating in lighting as low as 1 lux, a massive improvement over the 15 lux threshold of the Mini 4 Pro. This allows you to:

• Fly safer at dusk and in dim urban settings
• Navigate confidently around buildings and trees
• Trigger Return to Home even without GNSS coverage

Perfect for creative missions in cities or locations with obstructed satellite signals.

Tracking Performance

Both drones feature ActiveTrack 360°, but the Mini 5 Pro feels notably more refined.

Where the Mini 4 Pro is capable and smooth, the Mini 5 Pro responds quicker, adapts more intuitively, and introduces:

• Two tracking styles: Standard and Cycling
• Automatic switching to rear tracking when the subject passes the drone
• Improved stability in complex environments

These upgrades make a clear difference in dynamic shooting situations like sports, wildlife, and fast-moving subjects.

Battery, Transmission and Storage

Here is how they compare on supporting features:

While flight time is similar, the Mini 5 Pro features the upgraded O4+ transmission system, compared to the standard O4 system on the Mini 4 Pro. This may offer better signal reliability and feed stability in more complex environments. Additionally, the 42GB built-in storage on the Mini 5 Pro provides significantly more flexibility compared to the Mini 4 Pro's 2GB. It means:

• You can continue filming if your SD card is full
• You are protected if you forget your card entirely
• It adds peace of mind on mission-critical shoots

Which Drone is Right for You

The Mini 4 Pro remains a fantastic option for:

• New drone users
• Hobbyists
• Those wanting excellent imaging without spending more

However, the Mini 5 Pro is clearly aimed at users who want:

• Better performance in low light
• Smarter tracking features
• Enhanced safety during night or urban flights
• Creative flexibility through gimbal innovation and Med-Tele framing

For content creators and professionals looking to future-proof their setup, the Mini 5 Pro is the logical next step.

FAQs

Is the Mini 5 Pro better than the Mini 4 Pro for night flying?

Yes. The Mini 5 Pro uses LiDAR and has sensors capable of functioning in 1 lux lighting, compared to 15 lux on the Mini 4 Pro.

Do both drones offer true vertical shooting?

Yes, both support full vertical shooting. The Mini 5 Pro offers more framing flexibility with its 225° gimbal.

Does the Mini 5 Pro have internal storage?

Yes. It includes 42GB of internal storage. The Mini 4 Pro includes 2GB.

Is the tracking significantly better on the Mini 5 Pro?

The Mini 5 Pro adds more intelligent behaviour with faster subject response, scenario-based tracking modes and rear tracking.

Are they both sub-250g drones?

Yes. Both drones are designed to stay under 250 grams with standard batteries, keeping them compliant with C0 certification in the EU.

Conclusion

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is still an excellent drone, especially for those starting out or looking for reliable quality at a more affordable price point. But the DJI Mini 5 Pro brings a deeper toolkit for creators who demand more, from image quality and flight safety to intelligent tracking and night operation.

Shop now for the DJI Mini 5 Pro at the Coptrz official online store today.