When DJI announced its latest release, the Neo, it quickly captured the attention of drone enthusiasts and content creators alike. Small, lightweight, and packed with features borrowed from DJI's premium models, the Neo promises an impressive blend of functionality and affordability. But does it live up to the hype? We recently got ourselves one and after putting the Neo through its paces, here's a detailed look at its design, features, and performance.

Design and ease of use

At just 135 grams, the Neo is DJI's lightest drone to date, making it exempt from many licensing requirements. Its compact size allows it to fit into a jacket pocket, and the softly sculpted design with protective propeller guards adds to its user-friendly appeal. This is a drone designed for spontaneity. Features like palm takeoff and voice commands mean you can launch it almost anywhere with minimal preparation.

For beginners, the Neo is a dream. Its intuitive controls, voice activation via the Fly app, and pre-programmed "smart shots" such as Follow, Rocket, and Spotlight make capturing cinematic footage effortless. That said, the drone's reliance on internal storage—22GB with no microSD expansion—could be a limiting factor for those planning extended shoots.

High-end features in a budget package

Despite its budget-friendly price, the Neo boasts several high-end features. ActiveTrack, FPV capabilities, and compatibility with DJI's Goggles 3 and RC Motion 3 enhance its versatility. For vloggers, the Direction Track mode is particularly noteworthy, enabling smooth, walk-and-talk shots that keep the subject centered. However, the lack of vertical video capability might disappoint creators focused on TikTok and Instagram Reels.

The Neo's camera delivers surprisingly sharp 4K footage at 30fps, making it a standout in its price range. While it lacks advanced features like D-LogM for extended dynamic range and struggles in low-light conditions, the overall video quality is well above average for a drone of this size.

Performance: small but mighty

In terms of performance, the Neo impresses. It handles windy conditions (up to 18mph) with ease and can reach speeds of 18mph in sport mode, doubling that in manual mode with the FPV Controller 3. It's also robust—surviving minor crashes without any visible damage during testing.

One drawback is the noise. The Neo's small frame and high-speed rotors generate a banshee-like wail, which might be distracting during events or quiet settings.

The verdict

DJI's Neo is a stellar entry in the budget drone market, offering a compelling mix of portability, ease of use, and features typically found in higher-priced models. Its limitations—such as noise, lack of vertical video, and restricted storage—are forgivable given its price tag. For casual users, beginners, or experienced pilots looking for a lightweight, everyday drone, the Neo delivers excellent value.

If you're in the market for a small drone to capture social media content, spontaneous adventures, or creative aerial shots, the DJI Neo is well worth considering.