DJI has just added a new model to its drone lineup, the Mavic 3 Classic, which is positioned as a more accessible variant of the popular Mavic 3 machine. The latest drone boasts many of the flagship’s best features, but at a more welcoming price for newcomers.

The Mavic 3 Classic costs $1,469 for the base unit, though this will end up at more like $1,599 or $1,749 when teamed with either a DJI RC-N1 or DJI RC controller, respectively. Though it’s unlikely many buyers will take the option, it should be noted that the new drone will also be compatible with the company’s RC Pro controller.

So what do you get for the Classic’s asking price? The new budget model loses the additional telephoto lens of the original Mavic 3 drone but offers the same 4/3 CMOS 20-megapixel camera, O3 Plus transmission system, and 46-minute flight time.

The Mavic 3 Classic’s 24mm equivalent lens can record video at 5.1K / 50fps, 4K / 60fps, and 1080p / 60fps using H.264 and H.265 encoding, while slo-mo footage can be captured at 4K / 120fps and 1080p / 200fps. If you want to download images and video directly from the drone, you’ll enjoy 80MB per second transfer speeds when using a Wi-Fi 6 connection.

Newbie Friendly Features

The Mavic 3 Classic looks to be the perfect drone for newcomers to the hobby, sporting features like automated quick shots and a cruise control feature for nervous pilots. When in this mode, the drone flies at a set constant speed, allowing you to focus on photography without the risk of a crash.

The drone can independently plan its own routes to weave around hazards, thanks to eight visual sensors feeding information to an APAS 5.0 obstacle avoidance system. Like many other models, it can also return to home when a connection is lost or if the battery pack is running low.

Availability And Regulations

The Mavic 3 Classic is available now, though you’ll have to check local regulations to ensure it’s legal in your region. In Europe, for example, drone pilots can fly the Mavic 3 Classic in the A1 Open Category without obtaining a remote piloting license.