I've flown everything from racing quads to cinema rigs, but nothing has brought back the pure joy of flying quite like the DJI Neo 2. This isn't just another mini drone—it's a philosophical statement about what matters in aerial photography. Spoiler: it's not always about having the biggest sensor.
"The best camera is the one you have with you. The Neo 2 takes this maxim to its logical extreme—a capable aerial camera that literally fits in your jacket pocket."
— Hans Wiegert, Senior Drone CorrespondentFirst Impressions: Unboxing the Fly More Combo
When the Neo 2 Fly More Combo arrived, I was genuinely surprised by how small the box was. Inside, DJI packs an impressive kit: the Neo 2 drone itself, three Intelligent Flight Batteries, the RC-N3 controller, a charging hub, spare propellers, and a compact carrying case that's smaller than most lunch boxes.
Picking up the Neo 2 for the first time is almost disconcerting. At 135 grams—yes, nearly half the weight of the already-tiny Mini series—it feels more like a toy than a serious imaging tool. That impression vanishes the moment you power it on and see what this little marvel can do.
The Fly More Advantage: Why the Combo Makes Sense
Let me be direct: the Fly More Combo is the way to buy the Neo 2. With a single battery giving you around 18-20 minutes of real-world flight time, having three batteries transforms the experience entirely. I routinely fly for over an hour on a single outing, swapping batteries in seconds thanks to the brilliant hot-swap design.
| What You Get | Standard | Fly More Combo |
|---|---|---|
| Batteries | 1 | 3 |
| Controller | Optional | RC-N3 Included |
| Charging Hub | Not included | 3-battery hub |
| Carrying Case | Not included | Included |
| Total Flight Time | ~18 min | ~54+ min |
Camera Performance: Punching Above Its Weight Class
The Neo 2 packs a 1/2-inch sensor with 12MP stills and 4K/30fps video capability. On paper, these specs seem modest compared to the Mini 5 Pro or the Air 3. In practice, the results are remarkably impressive for a drone this size.
DJI's image processing works overtime here, and it shows. Daylight footage is crisp, colorful, and stabilized with the kind of smoothness we've come to expect from DJI's 3-axis gimbals. The Neo 2 uses a single-axis mechanical gimbal combined with electronic stabilization, and the results are nearly indistinguishable from more expensive drones in calm conditions.
✓ What I Absolutely Love
- • Fits in any pocket—truly go-anywhere portable
- • No FAA registration required (under 250g)
- • Gesture and voice control actually work well
- • QuickShots make anyone look like a pro
- • Silent enough for urban flying
- • Propeller guards built-in for safety
- • Fly More Combo is excellent value
⚠ Room for Improvement
- • Wind resistance limited to 8 m/s
- • No obstacle avoidance sensors
- • Low-light performance is mediocre
- • 4K limited to 30fps (no 60fps option)
- • Range limited to 6km
- • No RAW photo support
The Joy Factor: Why This Drone Makes You Smile
Here's something I didn't expect to write: the Neo 2 is fun in a way that larger drones simply aren't. Its tiny size and integrated propeller guards make it feel approachable and playful. I've flown it indoors, in my backyard, on hiking trails, at family gatherings—situations where pulling out a Mavic would feel like overkill or draw unwanted attention.
The gesture control deserves special mention. Point at the Neo 2, make a frame with your fingers, and it takes a photo. Wave your hand, and it follows you. These features have existed on other DJI drones, but they feel more natural on the Neo 2 because you're often flying without a controller anyway.
📊 Technical Specifications
Who Should Buy the Neo 2 Fly More Combo?
The Neo 2 isn't trying to replace your Mavic 4 Pro or compete with enterprise drones. It occupies a unique niche: the always-with-you drone that captures moments you'd otherwise miss because your "real" camera drone was at home.
Perfect For:
- • Content creators who want spontaneous aerial B-roll
- • Hikers and travelers who prioritize portability
- • Families wanting an easy-to-use camera drone
- • Social media enthusiasts who share quick clips
- • Beginners learning drone flying fundamentals
- • Experienced pilots wanting a fun secondary drone
Look Elsewhere If:
- • Professional video production is your primary use
- • You frequently fly in windy conditions
- • Low-light photography is essential
- • You need obstacle avoidance for safety
- • Long range (>6km) is required
🎯 The Verdict
The DJI Neo 2 Fly More Combo reminds me why I fell in love with drones in the first place. It strips away complexity and leaves pure, accessible joy. The Fly More bundle is genuinely essential—three batteries and the controller transform this from a novelty into a capable daily companion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the DJI Neo 2 require FAA registration?
No! At 135 grams, the Neo 2 is well under the 250g threshold and doesn't require registration for recreational use. Check our FAA drone license guide for complete details.
Can I fly the Neo 2 without a controller?
Absolutely. The Neo 2 can be controlled via smartphone, voice commands, or hand gestures. The Fly More Combo includes the RC-N3 controller for extended range and more precise control.
How does it compare to the DJI Mini series?
The Neo 2 trades camera quality and range for even smaller size and simpler operation. If image quality is paramount, the Mini 5 Pro is the better choice. For pure portability, the Neo 2 wins.
Is the Fly More Combo worth the extra cost?
Unquestionably yes. The standard package with one battery is limiting. Three batteries, the controller, charging hub, and case make this a complete, ready-to-fly system.
Hans Wiegert tested the DJI Neo 2 Fly More Combo for three months across Germany, Austria, and the Swiss Alps. This review was not sponsored by DJI, and the drone was purchased at retail price. Last updated December 2025.