The DJI RC vs RC Pro comparison reveals two powerful remote controllers for DJI drones. While both offer exceptional performance, the RC Pro stands out with its advanced features and enhanced display. Dive into this detailed comparison at differences, capabilities, and strengths to find out why the DJI RC Pro is the recommended choice for elevating your aerial photography experience.
Check the DJI Mavic 3 Pro From the DJI Official website
Why Do I Recommend DJI RC Pro
While both the DJI RC and RC Pro are excellent controllers, the RC Pro offers several advanced features that make it stand out for serious drone enthusiasts and professionals. Here’s why I recommend the DJI RC Pro:
- Superior Display: The RC Pro boasts a larger, brighter 1000-nit high-brightness screen, providing excellent visibility even in bright sunlight.
- Enhanced Processing Power: With a more powerful processor, the RC Pro offers smoother performance and faster response times.
- Expanded Storage: 32GB of internal storage allows for more apps, caching, and onboard data storage.
- HDMI Output: The ability to connect to external monitors or FPV goggles expands creative possibilities and monitoring options.
- Longer Battery Life: Up to 3 hours of operation time keeps you flying longer without interruptions.
- Improved Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi and 4G support ensure a stable connection in various environments.
- Advanced Customization: More programmable buttons and a wider range of settings for personalized control.
- Professional-Grade Build: The RC Pro’s robust construction and ergonomic design cater to intensive use.
- Future-Proofing: With its advanced specs, the RC Pro is better equipped to handle future drone models and software updates.
- Enhanced Range: Potentially better transmission range in certain conditions due to its advanced antenna system.
DJI RC vs RC Pro Side by Side Comparison
| Features/Specification | DJI RC | DJI RC Pro |
| Display | 5.5″ LCD, 700 nits | 5.5″ LCD, 1000 nits |
| Resolution | 1920×1080 | 1920×1080 |
| Storage | 16GB | 32GB |
| RAM | 4GB | 6GB |
| Battery Life | Up to 4 hours | Up to 3 hours |
| Operating System | Android-based | Android-based |
| Connectivity | OcuSync 3.0 | OcuSync 3.0, 4G support |
| Wi-Fi | 2.4GHz | Dual-band (2.4GHz & 5.8GHz) |
| HDMI Output | No | Yes |
| USB-C Port | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 390g | 680g |
| Dimensions | 170.5×126.3×91.3 mm | 183×153×69 mm |
| Customizable Buttons | Limited | Extensive |
| Internal Cooling | Passive | Active (built-in fan) |
| Price | Check DJI RC Price | Check DJI RC Pro Price |
Similarities Between DJI RC and RC Pro
| Features/Specification | DJI RC | DJI RC Pro |
| OcuSync 3.0 Transmission | Yes | Yes |
| Compatibility with Latest DJI Drones | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Screen | Yes | Yes |
| Android-based Operating System | Yes | Yes |
| DJI Fly App Integration | Yes | Yes |
| Customizable Settings | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C Charging | Yes | Yes |
| Compact and Portable Design | Yes | Yes |
| Intuitive User Interface | Yes | Yes |
| Real-time Flight Telemetry | Yes | Yes |
| Support for Intelligent Flight Modes | Yes | Yes |
| Firmware Update Capability | Yes | Yes |
| Ergonomic Design | Yes | Yes |
| Built-in Antenna | Yes | Yes |
| Touch Screen Functionality | Yes | Yes |
| Price | Check DJI RC Price | Check DJI RC Pro Price |
What Can Both Do?
Both the DJI RC and RC Pro offer a range of features that enhance your drone flying experience:
- Control compatible DJI drones with precision and ease.
- View real-time video transmission from the drone’s camera.
- Access and control camera settings, including exposure, ISO, and shutter speed.
- Utilize intelligent flight modes like ActiveTrack, QuickShots, and Waypoints.
- Monitor battery levels, GPS signal strength, and other vital flight data.
- Store and review captured photos and videos.
- Update drone and controller firmware.
- Customize control settings and button functions.
- Use DJI Fly app for additional features and settings.
- Share content directly to social media platforms.
- Plan and execute autonomous flight paths.
- Access maps and no-fly zone information.
- Perform pre-flight checks and calibrations.
- Switch between different control modes (e.g., Sport, Normal, Cinematic).
- Adjust gimbal settings for smooth camera movements.
Key features and specifications of both the DJI RC and RC Pro, let’s dive deeper into how these differences translate to real-world usage and which controller might be best suited for different types of users.
Display and Visibility: The DJI RC Pro’s 1000-nit high-brightness screen is a significant advantage for outdoor use. When flying in bright sunlight, every bit of screen brightness counts. The RC Pro’s display offers 42% more brightness than the standard RC, which can make a crucial difference in being able to see your drone’s video feed and flight data clearly. This enhanced visibility can be particularly important for professional videographers and photographers who need to ensure they’re capturing the perfect shot in various lighting conditions.
Processing Power and Responsiveness: With its more powerful processor and additional RAM, the RC Pro offers a smoother, more responsive user experience. This becomes particularly noticeable when running multiple apps, processing high-resolution video feeds, or using demanding features like real-time obstacle avoidance or ActiveTrack. The extra processing power of the RC Pro can help reduce latency and ensure that your inputs are translated to drone movements as quickly as possible, which is crucial for precision flying and complex maneuvers.
Storage Capacity: The RC Pro’s 32GB of internal storage, double that of the standard RC, provides more flexibility for users who like to keep multiple apps installed, cache map data for offline use, or store flight logs and temporary video files on the controller. This extra space can be particularly useful for professionals who may need to install specialized apps or store large amounts of flight data for client projects.
Connectivity Options: While both controllers feature OcuSync 3.0 for reliable drone connection, the RC Pro’s dual-band Wi-Fi and 4G support offer additional flexibility. The ability to connect to 5.8GHz Wi-Fi networks can be beneficial in areas with heavy 2.4GHz congestion, potentially providing faster internet speeds for features like live streaming or map updates. The 4G support opens up possibilities for remote operations and enhanced connectivity in areas with cellular coverage but limited Wi-Fi access.
HDMI Output: The RC Pro’s HDMI output is a game-changer for professional users. It allows for connection to external monitors, FPV goggles, or even live broadcasting equipment. This feature is invaluable for film productions, live events, or situations where multiple people need to view the drone’s feed simultaneously. It also enables more immersive flying experiences when used with compatible FPV goggles.
Battery Life and Power Management: Interestingly, the standard RC boasts a longer battery life of up to 4 hours compared to the RC Pro’s 3 hours. This difference is likely due to the RC Pro’s more power-hungry components, including its brighter screen and more powerful processor. However, the RC Pro’s active cooling system with a built-in fan allows for more consistent performance during extended use, potentially preventing thermal throttling that could affect the standard RC during long, intensive flying sessions.
Customization and Ergonomics: The RC Pro offers more extensive customization options, including additional programmable buttons. This level of customization can significantly enhance workflow efficiency for professional users who perform complex operations regularly. The RC Pro’s larger size and weight may provide a more comfortable grip for extended flying sessions, although the standard RC’s lighter weight could be preferable for users prioritizing portability.
Price Consideration: The DJI RC Pro’s advanced features come at a higher price point compared to the standard RC. For casual users or those on a budget, the standard RC offers excellent functionality at a more accessible price. However, for professionals or enthusiasts who can justify the investment, the RC Pro’s additional features can provide tangible benefits that may ultimately save time and improve the quality of their work.
Future-Proofing: Given its more advanced specifications, the RC Pro is likely better equipped to handle future drone models and software updates. This could potentially extend its useful lifespan, making it a more cost-effective choice in the long run for users who upgrade their drones frequently or plan to use the controller for many years.
FAQS About the DJI RC VS RC Pro
How does the DJI RC Pro’s active cooling system impact long-term controller reliability?
The DJI RC Pro’s active cooling system, featuring a built-in fan, helps maintain optimal operating temperatures during extended use. This can potentially increase the controller’s lifespan by reducing thermal stress on internal components, especially in hot environments or during intensive flying sessions.
Can the DJI RC’s firmware be modified to enable HDMI output?
No, the DJI RC’s hardware does not include an HDMI port, so firmware modifications cannot enable this feature. The HDMI output capability is exclusive to the RC Pro due to its different hardware configuration.
How does the weight difference between the DJI RC and RC Pro?
The DJI RC, being lighter at 390g compared to the RC Pro’s 680g, may cause less hand fatigue during extended use. However, the RC Pro’s larger size and weight distribution might provide a more balanced feel for some users. Personal preference and hand size play significant roles in comfort during long flights.
Is it possible to use the DJI RC Pro’s 4G capabilities for drone control?
While the DJI RC Pro’s 4G support enhances connectivity for features like map updates and live streaming, it cannot be used for direct drone control. Drone control still relies on the OcuSync 3.0 transmission system for safety and regulatory compliance reasons.
How does the difference in RAM between the DJI RC and RC Pro?
The RC Pro’s 6GB of RAM, compared to the RC’s 4GB, allows for smoother multitasking and potentially faster app switching. This extra RAM can be particularly noticeable when running memory-intensive applications or when multiple apps are open simultaneously.
Can the DJI RC’s internal storage be expanded using external devices?
While the DJI RC doesn’t have expandable internal storage, users can connect external storage devices via the USB-C port for additional space. However, this may not be as seamless as having more built-in storage like the RC Pro offers.
How does the screen coating on the DJI RC Pro compare to the standard RC?
The DJI RC Pro likely features a more advanced oleophobic coating on its screen, providing better resistance to fingerprints and smudges compared to the standard RC. This can contribute to better visibility and easier cleaning, especially important for the Pro’s brighter display.
Is there a difference in controller-to-drone latency between the DJI RC and RC Pro?
While both controllers use OcuSync 3.0, the RC Pro’s more powerful processor might result in slightly lower overall system latency. However, this difference is likely minimal and may not be noticeable in most flying scenarios.
How does the DJI RC Pro’s dual-band Wi-Fi capability affect its performance?
The RC Pro’s dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5.8GHz) provides more flexibility in crowded urban environments. The 5.8GHz band, while shorter in range, often experiences less interference, potentially resulting in faster and more stable connections for features requiring internet access.
Can the DJI RC’s user interface be customized to mimic the layout of the RC Pro?
While some UI customization is possible on the DJI RC, it cannot fully replicate the RC Pro’s interface due to hardware differences and additional features exclusive to the Pro model. Users can adjust certain elements like widget placement, but the core layout and available options will differ between the two controllers.
Conclusion
Both the DJI RC and RC Pro are exceptional controllers that offer powerful features for drone pilots. The choice between them ultimately depends on your specific needs, budget, and the type of flying you plan to do.
The standard DJI RC is an excellent choice for hobbyists, casual users, and even many enthusiasts. It offers a great balance of features, portability, and affordability. Its longer battery life and lighter weight make it ideal for those who prioritize convenience and don’t need the most advanced features.