DJI Spark Drone Review - Powerful Flying Machine for the Average Person
DJI Spark Drone manufactures unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), also known as drones, for aerial photography and videography, gimbals, flight platforms, cameras, propulsion systems, camera stabilizers, and flight controllers.
DJI is the world's leader in the civilian drone and aerial imaging technology industry, accounting for 85% of the global consumer drone market. Its drones and technology have been used globally for the music, television and film industries, including K-pop music videos and the sets of Emmy Award-nominated television productions such as The Amazing Race, American Ninja Warrior, Better Call Saul, Game of Thrones, and many more.
In 2017, DJI won a Technology & Engineering Emmy Award for its camera drone technology, which was recognized for excellence in engineering creativity, providing directors and cinematographers an affordable and accessible platform to create low-altitude aerial images, opening up creative possibilities and facilitating the distinct looks of some TV shows.
Even if you have no good reason to justify buying one, you have to admit that drones are cool. Some models out there are glorified tech toys, but the ones we highlight here are fit for use in imaging and cinematic applications small and large. If you think you can use a flying camera in your next project, there's some good news—the tech has come a long way in a very short time. There are models on the market now that put earlier copters to shame in terms of video quality and stabilization.
And now the bad news. You get what you pay for, and if you want an aerial video platform that can capture stunning footage, you need to be ready to spend some cash. Because drones are such pricey propositions, it pays to do your research before buying one.
DJI Spark Review
Spark is a mini drone that features all of DJI's signature technologies, allowing you to seize the moment whenever you feel inspired.
Enter the DJI Spark. Not only does it try to bring the price down closer to impulse purchase territory, but it also tries to reduce the learning curve required to send a craft up in the air.
At a $500 base price, this 10.5-ounce drone ports over some of the popular features from its higher-end sibling and adds some consumer-friendly tweaks to make it more accessible for the average consumer pilot who is trying to chase their kids around the park rather than make a major motion picture. Plus, it has gesture control that allows you to command this little aircraft simply by waving your hand.
Setting up the Spark drone is a relatively simple process that takes about 10 minutes once you have the battery charged and the DJI app downloaded. Sync up a smartphone with the Spark’s ad hoc wifi signal and you’ll seen see a remote feed from the drone’s built-in camera.
Setup will, however, require that you register your new flying machine with DJI. Recently, the FAA stopped requiring users to register small craft like this, and DJI responded by implementing restrictions of its own. If you don’t agree to the terms of a DJI account, functionality like range and top speed is restricted.
You can use the smartphone app to fly the Spark or spring for the optional dedicated controller, which will set you back an extra $150. You’ll also want to make sure the Spark has the latest firmware installed.
