Key Takeaways
- ✅ Verdict: Still excellent value at discounted prices—perfect for photographers prioritizing image quality over portability
- 📸 Best for: Content creators and hobbyists who want professional-grade aerial imagery without flagship pricing
- 💰 Value: At current street prices (~$799), it outperforms many newer drones in raw image quality
The DJI Air 2S launched in April 2021 as a game-changer: it was the first compact drone under $1,000 to feature a 1-inch sensor capable of 5.4K video. Now, in 2026, you can find it for significantly less—but is aging technology still worth your money when newer options exist?
After testing the Air 2S against its successors and competitors, we found it remains remarkably capable. However, certain limitations have become more apparent as the drone market has evolved. Here's our complete assessment.
Design & Build Quality
The Air 2S shares its folding design DNA with the original Mavic Air series, weighing 595g and measuring 180×97×77mm when folded. It's noticeably larger than today's Mini series drones but still pocketable for most camera bags.
Build quality remains excellent—after years of use, Air 2S units hold up remarkably well. The grey plastic shell resists scratches, and the gimbal protection is robust enough for travel without a case (though we still recommend one).
Camera Performance: The 1-Inch Advantage
The Air 2S's defining feature is its 1-inch CMOS sensor with 20MP resolution. In practical terms, this means:
- Superior low-light performance compared to 1/2-inch sensors in Mini series
- Better dynamic range for capturing sunsets and high-contrast scenes
- 5.4K/30fps video with excellent detail and color accuracy
- 10-bit D-Log M color profile for professional color grading
Compared to the newer Air 3's dual-camera system, the Air 2S lacks the 70mm telephoto option. However, the larger sensor means the wide camera still produces cleaner, more detailed images—especially in challenging light.
Flight Performance
| Specification | DJI Air 2S | DJI Air 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Max Flight Time | 31 minutes | 46 minutes |
| Max Speed | 68 km/h (S Mode) | 75 km/h (S Mode) |
| Transmission Range | 12 km (O3) | 20 km (O4) |
| Obstacle Sensing | 4-direction | Omnidirectional |
| Weight | 595g | 720g |
The Air 2S delivers 31 minutes of flight time—respectable but noticeably shorter than the Air 3's industry-leading 46 minutes. For casual flying, this rarely matters. For professional work requiring multiple angles per location, you'll want extra batteries.
Obstacle Avoidance: The Biggest Trade-off
Here's where age shows most clearly. The Air 2S features 4-directional sensing (forward, backward, upward, and downward) but lacks side sensors. In 2026, with omnidirectional sensing now standard on mid-range drones, this limitation feels significant.
For open-field flying, it's rarely an issue. But for complex environments—forests, urban areas, or tracking moving subjects—the blind spots require more pilot attention.
Intelligent Features & Software
Despite its age, the Air 2S continues receiving firmware updates. Key intelligent features include:
- MasterShots: Automated flight sequences that capture cinematic footage
- FocusTrack: Subject tracking with Spotlight, ActiveTrack, and POI modes
- QuickShots: Preset aerial maneuvers like Dronie, Helix, and Rocket
- HyperLapse: Time-lapse modes including Free, Course Lock, and Waypoint
Who Should Buy the DJI Air 2S in 2026?
✅ Perfect For
- • Photographers prioritizing image quality over gadgets
- • Budget-conscious buyers finding discounted units
- • Pilots who fly primarily in open spaces
- • Content creators shooting primarily in 5.4K
❌ Skip If You
- • Need omnidirectional obstacle avoidance
- • Want the latest transmission technology
- • Require maximum flight time per battery
- • Plan to fly in complex environments frequently
Final Verdict: 8.0/10
The DJI Air 2S represents a fascinating value proposition in 2026. Its 1-inch sensor still produces imagery that rivals or exceeds many newer compact drones, and discounted pricing makes it accessible to more buyers than ever.
However, the lack of omnidirectional obstacle sensing and shorter flight time compared to current-gen alternatives are real limitations. If you're buying new at full price, the Air 3 is objectively superior. But at current street prices of $799 or less, the Air 2S delivers exceptional value for photographers who prioritize image quality above all else.