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DJI Neo 2 Vs Neo: Key Differences You Need To Know
- by Stefan Gandhi
If you’re considering a new mini drone and find yourself comparing the DJI Neo 2 and the original DJI Neo, you're not alone. Both models sit comfortably under the 250g threshold, making them ideal for beginner flyers, travel enthusiasts and UK hobbyists. However, while the Neo was praised for its simplicity and affordability, the Neo 2 introduces smarter flight systems, an upgraded camera, and more safety features, pushing this lightweight drone into a whole new league.
In this detailed comparison, we break down the key differences between the DJI Neo 2 and the original Neo. From video quality and tracking to obstacle sensing and control methods, here’s everything you need to know before making your decision.
Design & Portability
Both the DJI Neo and Neo 2 are compact, fold-free, and ready to fly straight out of the box. Designed with portability in mind, they slot neatly into backpacks and travel cases without requiring complex setup.
The Neo weighs approximately 135g, while the Neo 2 comes in at 151g. That slight increase accounts for additional hardware, including an onboard screen, omnidirectional obstacle sensors, and a forward-facing LiDAR system. Both drones come with built-in propeller guards for enhanced safety, particularly when flying indoors or around people.
The Neo 2 also introduces an intuitive display on the aircraft body itself, showing current flight mode and key settings. It even supports palm take-off and an all-new Return-to-Palm feature for smooth, hand-activated landing.
Verdict: Both drones are ultra-portable, but Neo 2 brings better build features without sacrificing convenience.
Camera Performance
For most buyers in the UK, the drone’s camera is the star of the show. Both drones feature a 1/2-inch CMOS sensor delivering 12 MP stills, but the Neo 2 brings major upgrades to video capture.
The original Neo supports 4K video at 30 frames per second and vertical video at 1080p, suitable for basic vlogging or holiday clips. The Neo 2 elevates that with 4K at 60fps, 4K at 100fps for slow motion, and 2.7K vertical video at up to 60fps. The wider f/2.2 aperture on the Neo 2 also means better low-light performance compared to the f/2.8 lens on the original.
Add to that a 2-axis mechanical gimbal (compared to Neo’s 1-axis), and you get significantly more stable, cinematic footage.
The Neo 2 also supports an expanded set of creative modes including SelfieShot, MasterShots, Dolly Zoom, and QuickShots, giving creators more ways to craft engaging content.
Verdict: The Neo 2 is the superior camera drone, ideal for creators who demand more dynamic and stable footage.
Tracking and Intelligent Flight
Both models offer follow-me functionality, but Neo 2 takes it to another level. It introduces faster tracking at up to 12 m/s (versus 8 m/s on the Neo) and supports tracking from eight directions rather than just the front or sides. The Neo 2 also features a dedicated Cycling Mode, optimised for fast-paced subject tracking.
Thanks to its new omnidirectional sensing system, the Neo 2 can follow users more safely and confidently. This is particularly useful when filming action sequences, outdoor sports, or navigating complex environments.
Verdict: The Neo 2 leads in intelligent tracking, making it a smarter choice for fast-moving and immersive content.
Control Options and Ease of Use
Both drones offer multiple control options including voice control, mobile app support, and compatibility with DJI's remote and motion controllers. However, Neo 2 introduces Gesture Control, a new way to fly using just hand movements.
By facing your palm toward the drone, you can direct it to ascend, descend, or move laterally. You can even control proximity and framing using both hands, ideal for vloggers filming solo.
Neo 2 also improves on palm-controlled altitude, allowing flights up to 60 metres compared to Neo's 30 metres. The Return-to-Palm feature adds further convenience for hands-free landing.
Verdict: Neo 2 offers a more intuitive, flexible flying experience, perfect for solo creators and those who like gesture-based control.
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Safety and Obstacle Avoidance
This is where the Neo 2 firmly distances itself from its predecessor. It is DJI’s smallest drone to offer omnidirectional obstacle sensing, including forward, backward, upward, and lateral vision. On top of that, the Neo 2 adds a forward-facing LiDAR sensor to detect obstacles even in lower light.
In contrast, the original Neo includes only a downward infrared and visual positioning system. It lacks any form of active obstacle avoidance, making it more dependent on open environments and good lighting.
Verdict: Neo 2 is clearly the safer drone, offering more confidence for new pilots and more protection in complex settings.
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Flight Performance
Flight time on both drones is comparable: 19 minutes for Neo 2 and 18 minutes for the Neo. Where Neo 2 stands out is in responsiveness and range.
Neo 2 supports Wi-Fi transmission up to 500 metres compared to just 50 metres on the Neo. If used with the DJI Neo 2 Digital Transceiver, it can unlock up to 6 km CE-rated O4 transmission range. This is not included in the base drone package but is part of the Fly More Combo or available separately.
In terms of wind resistance, the Neo 2 holds its position in up to Level 5 winds (around 10.7 m/s), while the Neo is rated for Level 4 (8 m/s). That makes the Neo 2 more robust for flying in variable UK conditions.
Verdict: Neo 2 provides a more capable, reliable flying experience with better range, resistance, and stability.
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Storage and File Handling
Neither drone offers external SD card support, so onboard storage is essential. Neo 2 doubles the internal capacity to 49 GB, compared to just 22 GB in the original Neo. With higher resolution footage and intelligent shooting modes, this extra storage is critical for longer sessions.
Verdict: Neo 2 is far more storage-friendly for modern creators.
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Price and Value
As of November 2025, prices for the DJI Neo begin at £169 for the base model, rising to £449 for the Motion Fly More Combo. The DJI Neo 2 starts at £209 for the drone only model, with the Motion Fly More Combo priced at £509.
The Neo remains a very attractive budget option, particularly for casual flyers and first-timers. But if you’re looking to grow your skills or produce high-quality video content, the Neo 2 justifies its price increase with improved features and smarter capabilities.
Verdict: Both offer excellent value, but the Neo 2 is the better investment for those looking for more creative control and safety.
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FAQs
Is the DJI Neo 2 under 250g for UK drone laws?
Yes, at 151g (without the digital transceiver), the Neo 2 is fully compliant with sub-250g drone regulations in the UK.
Can I shoot vertical video for social media with these drones?
Yes. The Neo offers 1080p vertical video, while the Neo 2 upgrades this to 2.7K at up to 60fps.
Do either of the drones support SD cards?
No, both drones rely solely on internal storage. Neo 2 has 49 GB, Neo has 22 GB.
Does Neo 2 offer better obstacle avoidance?
Absolutely. Neo 2 includes omnidirectional obstacle sensing and forward LiDAR, while the Neo only includes downward visual sensors.
Is the price difference worth it for the Neo 2?
If you're interested in safety, camera upgrades, and creative shooting modes, the extra investment in the Neo 2 is worthwhile.
Conclusion
The DJI Neo 2 is a clear step up from the original Neo. It takes everything that made the original model accessible and enhances it with intelligent tracking, 4K slow motion, gesture control, safer flying, and more flexible storage. For UK drone pilots who want to grow with their gear, the Neo 2 offers a compelling upgrade path that remains compact, legal, and powerful.
For those looking for an affordable, easy-to-use drone for casual flying, the DJI Neo still holds its ground. But if you're ready for more advanced content creation, smoother tracking, and superior safety, the DJI Neo 2 is the better long-term choice.
