Any individual who likes to include aerial footage into their filmmaking endeavors and does not like to shell out a considerable amount of cash will find the DJI Phantom 3 to be a great choice in the long run. Even though you can expect a better performance from the pricier Phantom models out there, the Phantom 3 is nevertheless quite reliable when it comes to filmmaking. The gimbal is quite supple for producing smooth panning shots much to the satisfaction of the user. Moreover, the innovative 2.7K camera comes with excellent color accuracy as well.
Below, we will take a look at why the DJI Phantom 3 has become so popular right now.
Video quality
As we have mentioned earlier, the Phantom 3 offers 2.7K resolution while the camera is capable of capturing fairly vibrant shades. However, these colors are not as vibrant as compared to those provided by the more recent Phantom 4. Moreover, even though the Phantom 3’s footage appears to be quite crisp, it is not as crisp as that of the Phantom 4. Nevertheless, the gimbal of the Phantom 3 is quite workable plus will be able to keep the camera steady while going through the air. Nonetheless, one can experience some camera shake while flying aggressively as compared to the Phantom 4 which is going to remain rock solid.
Considering everything there has been a drop-off in the video quality between the Phantom 3 and its other bigger counterparts. However, it will not be correct to assert that the footage of the Phantom 3 is not up to the mark. On the other hand, it will be quite surprising that the footage had been captured by an amateur while making use of a consumer product. Although it might be possible to figure out which footage was produced by which drone while comparing them side-by-side, it does not imply that the footage of the Phantom 3 is not impressive.
Similar to every DJI Phantom version, the one mentioned here comes with some problems with the propellers appearing with the frame of view of the camera. This happens mostly while flying aggressively through the air. This issue can be aggravated while the camera is pointed at the sun given that there is a possibility of propeller shadows appearing in the footage. Although this problem can be considered to be a deal-breaker in the long run, one can avoid it with some practice as well as camera tilting.
Simplicity of usage
The overall score of the Phantom 3 is not that bad while considering the gimbal model packs out there. On the other hand, the non-gimbal models are not up to the mark whatsoever. The initial installation of the Phantom 3 is quite simple. In fact, you will not find it difficult to install the rotors while the battery charging, as well as installation, is quite easy as well. Moreover, it is quite simple to download DJI GO and pair the controller as well. However, a software update will be required while setting up the Phantom 3, and thus, one has to download an update on a computer and transfer it to the drone. Although this might prove to be somewhat irritating, it will not take much time whatsoever.
The basic design of the controller of the Phantom 3 is similar to most of the other Phantom controllers out there. Despite the fact that this controller will deliver the goods, it is not as efficient as that of the more recent Phantom 4. Even though the joysticks are nevertheless properly textured as well as large, they might feel somewhat stickier. Apart from this, the phone cradle has been swapped with a spring-loaded clip which happens to be somewhat tough to use. These drawbacks are easily noticeable while the 2 Phantom models are compared side-by-side and it would be a better idea in case the manufacturer would have stuck with an identical controller for the Phantom 3 as all the other Phantom models out there.
You will be having a remarkable DJI experience while going on the first flight with a drone mentioned here. The innovative on-screen controls will enable you to lift the drone from the ground automatically prior to taking complete control. Even though the joysticks might appear to be somewhat sticky initially, you will soon become accustomed to them after a while. It will be possible to start and stop the drone’s camera easily thanks to the presence of a big on-screen record button. On top of this, an automated landing feature will enable the drone to touch the ground in a controlled way.
Flight performance
The flight performance of the Phantom 3 is not that great after all. In fact, it can be given a rating of 7 out of 10. However, it is much better than any other non-gimbal model out there.
Although the performance of the Phantom 3 is not as good as that of the more costly models, it will not disappoint you in the long run. In fact, it is quite stable while taking off and landing. However, one significant drawback is that it is not going to hover as steadily as the Phantom 4. Although it will remain fairly stationary while it is asked to do so, it can bob up and down at times as well. As a matter of fact, the flight time of the Phantom 3 happens to be a maximum of 25 minutes which should be adequate for you to get any shot according to your likings.
Value
The price of the Phantom 3 dropped to $500 recently. Although it cannot be considered to be the most effective camera drone out there, it will be able to produce excellent aerial footage which definitely makes it worth the cost.
Conclusion
Despite the fact that the Phantom 3 will not be able to match the more costly drones on the market when it comes to performance, it will nevertheless be able to produce excellent footage which will help to enhance the quality of any shooting project. In a nutshell, the Phantom 3 will be a fantastic choice for any videographer who is on a budget.
