Autel’s Evo Lite drones are positioned similarly to DJI’s Air 2S, especially with their Type 1 (13.2 x 8.8mm) 20MP sensor cameras. Within the Evo Lite series, the standout model is the Lite+, distinguished by its variable aperture and ability to capture video at up to 6K/30p. Additionally, the Evo Lite+ incorporates numerous competitive software features, though some may lean more towards being flashy rather than genuinely practical.
Key Features of Autel Evo Lite+ Drone
The Autel Evo Lite+ includes:
- 20MP Type 1 (13.2 x 8.8mm) CMOS sensor
- 29mm (equiv.) lens with 82º FOV and variable aperture ranging from F2.8 to F11
- Video recording capabilities: 6K/30p, 4K/60p and 1080p/120p
- Recording in H.264 and H.265 codecs at 120 Mbps
- 8-bit A-Log and HDR video capture
- 8-bit JPEG and 10-bit Raw image capture
- Digital zoom from 1X to 16X
- Lossless zoom: 4K at 1.3X and 1080p at 3X
- Skylink image transmission up to 12 km (7.5 mi)
- Dynamic Track 2.1 for advanced subject tracking
- SoundRecord feature for ambient sound recording
- Up to 40 minutes of flight time
- Total weight: 835g (1.84 lbs)
Comparison with DJI Air 2S and Mavic 3
Both the DJI Air 2S and Mavic 3 series integrate DJI’s Advanced Pilot Assistance System (APAS), allowing drones to either stop in front of obstacles or navigate around them. In contrast, the Autel Evo Lite+ opts for a simpler approach, stopping when encountering obstacles, which may appeal to filmmakers needing precise control around potentially hazardous barriers.
Software and User Experience
Autel employs the Sky app across its Evo Nano and Lite series, a significant upgrade from their previous Explorer app. Noteworthy improvements include the integration of SoundRecord, which enables ambient sound recording via a connected smartphone, though this feature applies solely to locally stored videos rather than those saved on a microSD card.
Pros
- High-resolution video capabilities (6K/30p)
- Quality of the 20MP Type 1 CMOS sensor
- Variable aperture enhancing photography flexibility
- Sharp image quality
- Extended 40-minute battery life
- Dynamic Track 2.1 for reliable subject tracking
- SoundRecord feature for capturing ambient sounds during flights
Cons
- Limited to 8-bit video, lacking 10-bit depth
- Pro mode not yet supported for AEB shots, HDR footage or A-Log video
- Lack of automatic obstacle avoidance
- Remote lacks an LED screen
Aircraft and Controller Design
The Autel Evo Lite+ features a compact design, folding down to dimensions of 210 x 123 x 95mm (8.27 x 4.84 x 3.66″), slightly larger than the DJI Air 2S and comparable to the Mavic 3 series. Notably, it foregoes top-mounted obstacle avoidance sensors seen on the Air 2S, instead utilizing ultra-wide-angle front cameras providing a 150º field of view, complemented by sensors at the drone’s rear and underside.
While the Evo Lite+’s remote control is ergonomically designed and lightweight, it has several drawbacks. It lacks a dedicated screen and a toggle switch for adjusting flight speeds, functions that are managed through the app interface rather than directly accessible on the remote. Additionally, there’s no feature allowing immediate switching between GPS-based Positioning (P) mode and ATTI mode from the controller, which could enhance operational flexibility.
Photo and Video Capabilities
Equipped with a 20MP Type 1 CMOS sensor mounted on a 3-axis gimbal, the Evo Lite+ boasts a 29mm (equiv.) variable aperture lens with an 82º field of view. Video recording options encompass resolutions up to 6K/30p, 4K/60p and 1080p/120p, supported by H.264 or H.265 codecs. Digital zoom capabilities extend up to 16X at 6K/30p, complemented by a ‘lossless zoom’ feature providing up to 1.3X in 4K and 3X in 1080p, though this involves sensor cropping potentially affecting image quality.
Autel Sky App and Flight Modes
Similar to Autel’s Nano series, the Evo Lite+ operates via the Sky app, which has been significantly refined for improved usability. The interface features vertically aligned main menu items such as Photo, Video and Night modes for streamlined navigation. Access to functions like gimbal calibration, firmware updates and shooting preferences (JPEG vs. Raw) is facilitated through intuitive icons, reminiscent of DJI’s Mimo interface.
The app introduces additional functionalities compared to the Nano series, including multiple night modes-Standard, Night and Super Night-tailored for various low-light conditions. Notably, Super Night mode enables shooting at ISO levels up to 48,000, though it limits video resolution to 4K/30p.
In conclusion, the Autel Evo Lite+ drone presents competitive features akin to leading models from DJI, emphasizing high-resolution video capabilities, advanced tracking software and enhanced app functionality. However, it does exhibit some limitations such as restricted video depth, the absence of certain pro-mode features and a less intuitive remote control interface. For enthusiasts and filmmakers seeking robust performance within a compact drone form factor, the Evo Lite+ offers a viable choice, blending advanced imaging technology with user-friendly software enhancements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key differences between the Autel Evo Lite+ and DJI Air 2S drones?
Answer: The Autel Evo Lite+ distinguishes itself with a variable aperture lens, higher video resolution capabilities (including 6K recording) and specific software features like Dynamic Track 2.1. In contrast, the DJI Air 2S offers advanced obstacle avoidance features and a more compact design.
Which drone is better for videography: Autel Evo Lite+ or DJI Air 2S?
Answer: Both drones excel in videography but cater to slightly different needs. The Autel Evo Lite+ supports higher resolution video (up to 6K/30p) and offers variable aperture for flexible shooting conditions, making it ideal for filmmakers prioritizing video quality. The DJI Air 2S, while offering up to 5.4K video, emphasizes obstacle avoidance and compactness, making it suitable for aerial videographers needing portability and safety features.
Does the Autel Evo Lite+ have obstacle avoidance capabilities like the DJI Air 2S?
Answer: No, the Autel Evo Lite+ does not feature advanced obstacle avoidance systems like the DJI Air 2S’s Advanced Pilot Assistance System (APAS). It relies on basic obstacle detection and will stop when encountering obstacles rather than navigating around them automatically.
What software features make the Autel Evo Lite+ stand out?
Answer: The Autel Evo Lite+ includes Dynamic Track 2.1 for enhanced subject tracking, SoundRecord for capturing ambient sounds during flights and various shooting modes through the Sky app. These features enhance creative control and usability for drone pilots and filmmakers.
Which drone offers better battery life: Autel Evo Lite+ or DJI Air 2S?
Answer: The Autel Evo Lite+ boasts a flight time of up to 40 minutes, which is longer than the DJI Air 2S’s approximately 31 minutes. This extended battery life can be advantageous for longer aerial shoots without the need for frequent recharging.
Is the Autel Evo Lite+ compatible with third-party accessories like ND filters and additional batteries?
Answer: Yes, the Autel Evo Lite+ supports third-party accessories such as ND filters for adjusting exposure and additional batteries for extending flight time. This flexibility allows users to customize their drone setup according to their specific needs.
How does the image quality compare between the Autel Evo Lite+ and DJI Air 2S?
Answer: Both drones feature high-quality cameras with 20MP sensors, but the Autel Evo Lite+ offers a variable aperture lens, potentially providing more control over depth of field and low-light performance. The DJI Air 2S, however, offers slightly higher resolution video options and benefits from DJI’s renowned image processing capabilities.
Can the Autel Evo Lite+ be used for professional filmmaking and photography?
Answer: Yes, the Autel Evo Lite+ is suitable for professional filmmaking and photography due to its high-resolution video capabilities (including 6K recording), RAW image capture and advanced tracking features. However, professional users may find limitations in the absence of 10-bit video and certain pro-mode functionalities.
Does the Autel Evo Lite+ require a specific app for operation?
Answer: Yes, the Autel Evo Lite+ operates using the Autel Sky app, which has been significantly improved for user-friendly navigation and enhanced functionality compared to previous Autel drone apps. The app facilitates various flight modes, camera settings and firmware updates.
What are some notable drawbacks of the Autel Evo Lite+ compared to the DJI Air 2S?
Answer: Some drawbacks of the Autel Evo Lite+ include its lack of advanced obstacle avoidance features found in the DJI Air 2S, limited video depth with 8-bit recording and the absence of a built-in LED screen on the remote controller. These factors may influence the choice for users prioritizing safety features and convenience in drone operation.