TL;DR
The DJI Neo 2 refines the budget Neo with camera upgrades, better obstacle detection and FPV/manual control options, while staying cheaper than many rivals. It’s small, light and user-friendly enough to appeal to newcomers, though it doesn’t match higher-end drones for speed, battery life or camera performance.
What happened
A Verge reviewer who didn’t previously consider themselves a "drone person" tested DJI's Neo 2 and found it succeeded where the original Neo fell short. The Neo 2 keeps a compact form but introduces camera improvements and more capable obstacle detection, while retaining easy-to-use features that let users capture photos and video without a dedicated controller. Priced in the UK at £209 and in Europe at €245 (about $280), it undercuts pricier models like DJI's Flip and rivals such as the HoverAir X1. The reviewer says the Neo 2 is light and portable enough to fly in many casual settings, and it offers both manual control and FPV flight modes for more experienced users. Limits remain: the Neo 2 isn’t intended to compete with larger drones that deliver superior speed, longer endurance or higher-end imaging.
Why it matters
- Lower price and improved features lower the barrier for first-time drone buyers.
- Stronger obstacle detection and a better camera make small drones more practical for everyday photo and video capture.
- Compact, lightweight design reduces regulatory and logistical friction for casual flying.
- Hybrid ease-of-use and manual/FPV options mean the drone can serve both beginners and more experienced hobbyists.
Key facts
- DJI Neo 2 builds on the original Neo with camera upgrades and improved obstacle detection.
- UK price: £209; EU price: €245; approximate conversion given as around $280 in the article.
- The original Neo cost $199 and lacked features such as portrait video recording.
- DJI's Flip model retails around £/$439 and is positioned at a higher price point.
- Competitor HoverAir’s X1 is priced near £/$349, making the Neo 2 cheaper than some rivals.
- Neo 2 is small and light, described as easy to fly in many casual settings and usable without a controller.
- It supports manual control and FPV flight modes in addition to simple controller-free operation.
- Reviewer notes obstacle avoidance has improved but is not flawless, and higher-end drones still offer advantages in speed, camera capability and battery life.
- The article states there are "no realistic hopes of a US launch now that DJI has been banned from the country."
What to watch next
- Official plans for US availability or distribution: not confirmed in the source.
- Detailed battery life metrics and real-world endurance under different conditions: not confirmed in the source.
- Long-term reliability and durability compared with higher-end models: not confirmed in the source.
Quick glossary
- FPV (First-Person View): A flying mode that streams the drone’s camera view to goggles or a screen, giving the operator an immersive perspective as if aboard the aircraft.
- Obstacle detection / avoidance: Sensors and software that help a drone detect objects in its flight path and either warn the pilot or automatically adjust course to prevent collisions.
- Portrait video: Video recorded in a vertical (tall) aspect ratio, commonly used for social media platforms that favor vertical content.
- Manual control: Flight mode that gives the pilot full control over the drone’s movements rather than relying on automated flight assists.
Reader FAQ
Is the Neo 2 a good pick for beginners?
Yes — the reviewer describes it as small, simple and fun, with features that make it accessible to new users.
Does the Neo 2 require a physical controller to capture video and photos?
No — the article says the drone can capture footage and photos without the need for any controller.
Will the Neo 2 be sold in the United States?
The article states there are no realistic hopes of a US launch now that DJI has been banned from the country.
How does the Neo 2 compare to higher-end drones?
The reviewer notes the Neo 2 is more limited than more powerful drones, which can offer better cameras, faster speeds and longer battery life.
TECH GADGETS DRONES DJI Neo 2 review: I guess I’m a drone guy now This is small, simple and — most importantly — fun enough to sell me on drones….
Sources
- DJI Neo 2 review: I guess I’m a drone guy now
- I tested the DJI Neo 2 and it's so good that I don't want to …
- DJI Neo 2 review: The best budget drone is now even better
- DJI Neo 2 Is My All-Time Favorite Drone – Here's Why I'll …
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