DJI has propped up their Phantom model, packed more power and features in its newer version, called; Phantom 2 Vision+. Looks like DJI has taken the feedback from the previous model seriously, and the result is the improved drone. Though it’s a little heavier from its progeny, the battery operational issues have been sorted out on the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+.
DJI has stuck to its user-friendly domain and has incorporated many features in this drone that will even work for the technology cripples out there. DJI has designed this like a flying saucer in pristine white. The showstopper is the incredible camera built in gimbal with 3 axis electronic stabilization, more on that later. All you need to know for now is the quality of images has been redefined. Let’s check if this new phantom can spook us with its power-packed upgrades.
The flight assembly is simple with a few turns here, a few calibrations there, and you’re set to fly. The maximum speed is about 35-40 MPH, which is decent enough. This can scale heights of around 900 feet (Isn’t that amazing?). With a 5200mah Li-Po battery, flight time is 25 minutes. But batteries are more expensive, especially when you need to field multiple locations, without coming back to charge.
The Master Control
The Phantom 2 Vision+ comes with a 5.8 GHZ controller that is easy to operate once you get the knack of it. It can be charged with a USB cable, plugged into your car or your laptop. However, the fastest charging source would be the USB power plug jack. The controller runs on 4 AA rechargeable batteries that ensure a good battery life. It has this clamp where you can place your phone for the statistics and video monitoring purposes. The USP would be the Wi-Fi extender that is also USB charged. It creates a local Wi-Fi network you pair your phone (Android or iOS) with, and it uses its own rechargeable internal battery juice to stay connected with the Phantom, even when it’s 2,200 feet away.
The VISION + Advantage
The catch here is the fully stabilized 14 MP camera with an F/2.8 lens that shoots videos at 1080p @ 30 frames. But, what about all the gossip lingering around about the sterling quality of images? Let me unveil the built-in gimbal with 3 axis electronic stabilization. The battle between stability, vibrations and shock has been once and for all settled by this rig, thanks to the innovations in DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ Drone. And the results have been pretty eminent. The pictures are clear and lucid, the colors are silky smooth. This will be a treat to amateur photographers and videographers. The camera span has been increased to 90 Degrees, meaning you can take pictures right underneath you and right in front of you. The camera though isn’t the best in its class.
The DJI Vision App
The DJI vision app is extremely functional with controls to take pictures, start/stop video recording, and others. One gets tabs on the altitude and the speed through this app that can be installed on your smartphone. This app has a feature to locate your drone when it vanishes out of sight (Believe me it happens often). The app specifies the direction with respect to the controller and alas, we have a heading!
One feature that we can’t miss out on, is, the Home point return. The drone automatically returns to within 6 inches of the point that has been pre-defined by the user. Don’t be afraid to go out in the open, unlike your usual girlfriends, this will always go home with you no matter what.
All in all the DJI Phantom 2 Vision+ drone is a treat for the entry level boys out there with $1300.