DJI Smart Controller in 2020 - Should You Still Buy It?

[@BobDiaz123]

Now that the Air 2 is supported, it's time to do an update video.

[@5670and]

Thanks, Billy. Always appreciate your videos. We fly professionally, and have had the SC from day one, when we added our M2P, and it has been awesome. Absolutely agree with your evaluation. It's the right choice for the Mavics, even this late in the game. A few tips from having used it for about a year now: (1) SCREEN - even though it's bigger, the screen is still a bit too small and glossy. An even larger size and brighter screen would be even better. A screen shield would be better/safer/easier to see during missions (have not tried an after market shield). Definitely best to turn off the auto brightness for daytime ops. I recommend an adhesive screen protector (just like a cell phone screen protector). A scratched screen would be a costly repair. Since it's a touch screen, you'll want to use it as a touch screen. Works fine for the DJI apps, but when using apps like Litchi, you will struggle to be precise using the touch screen for input. (2) BATTERY - it's way better than a cell phone battery, and outlasts our typical 1-day missions/8 intelligent flight batteries. To protect against running out of juice, we use a portable power pack to extend the battery. Just put the portable power pack in your back pocket, plug it in when you start flying, and it slows the power drain on the SC, thereby extending operation hours. Thanks, Billy! Keep up the good work!

[@michaelwood5519]

Is the controller difficult to pair with the drone?

[@Joeteck]

Can you do screen record like a phone? That is actually an awesome feature of phones to show viewers the technology. Recording footage is one thing, but showing the controller screen is awesome too.

[@jrboss23]

I will buy it as soon as they add Mavic Air 2.

[@WargodFilms]

Factz was just thinking the samething

[@MauroTandoi]

we are not waiting for anything else :-)

[@remy-]

They did ;)

[@faisala5437]

yeah me too bro xD TROLL

[@ghosttjr2]

Did you get it?

[@Townie5lax]

Just got this bundled in with the Mavic Air 2 Fly More Combo on Amazon for 1061! I'm pumped!

[@MrDamonLeBeouf]

no you didnt. way too cheap.

[@TOURMANBOB]

I own the Smart Controller and use it at times with my Zoom and Air2. However, I have found a better combination IMO...the regular controllers with an IPAD Mini 5. Although it's not as bright as the SC, the much larger screen of the IPAD Mini makes it easier to read and honestly, I haven't found it to be hard to read in bright sunlight either. The Smart Controller doesn't have much battery life and in order to use it for a full day's flying, I have to plug in a large USB battery pack to slow down the discharge rate and this helps keep the IPAD charged too. As such, I have contemplated selling the SC but I am going to wait until I find out if DJI will provide a firmware version update to allow it to work with the Mavic 3. In that case, it will become EXTREMELY valuable since it would then be a much cheaper alternative to the new Smart Contoller. With the original SC not being available any longer, it will be an easy sell second hand to those still wanting one for the older drones. Plus the combo of the IPAD Mini 5 and controller gives you an IPAD for regular use when not being used with the drone. So for me anyway, it's not really all that useful for non professional use. Using it makes me question the wisdom of my even buying it to begin with....fell for all the KZbin hype I guess....

[@burrdaddy]

I love the SC. It makes the entire experience so much more fluid. The only reason I haven't purchased the MA2 is that it still isn't compatible with the SC. Looking at you DJI! Do it.

[@billykyle]

NEED that Mavic Air 2 compatibility 🙌🏼

[@ChristiaanRoest79]

It’s finally compatible now :)

[@TheFbiFilesRepeat]

Also air2s and mini 2 is now compatible

[@burrdaddy]

@@TheFbiFilesRepeat I now have the A2s, which I love. However, the SC isn't nearly as smooth as the controller it came with. It's strange but I prefer the controller of the A2s over the SC.

[@TheFbiFilesRepeat]

@@burrdaddy good to know, thanks!

[@comfort_food_guy]

the 3 is just out of my price range, so I want to order the Air 2S, but seeing your video on the 3 cine you stated the SC's range is inferior to the controller that comes with the 2S. Is the range difference that bad? Im a beginner hobbyist. My eyesight also kind of sucks so the brighter screen is a plus. Do you recommend i just go with the regular controller?

[@rdanny271]

You're always supposed to have the drone with visual line of sight so taking it far wouldn't be legal range wouldn't matter if you keep it close the connection will remain strong

[@Unamatrix01]

Great video Billy. I have the DJI Crystal Sky 7.85' High-brightness display that I use with my Mavic Pro Platinum and Autel Evo II 8K, unfortunately, it is not compatible with my Mavic Mini or Mavic Air 2. Regarding having one transmitter and having it bound to multiple drones, that is how it is with hobby grade RC airplanes, helicopters, FPV drones, and cars. I fly my five helicopters with one transmitter and drive my competition off-road 1/10th scale electric 2wd and 4wd buggies with one transmitter as well.

[@billykyle]

That larger screen must be nice!

[@Unamatrix01]

Billy Kyle The larger screen size is fantastic and the fact the Crystal Sky uses external camera batteries is also a bonus.Regarding using the DJI Smart Controller with the Mavic Mini,that is not possible.The Mavic Mini uses enhanced wifi while the Smart Controller is OcuSync 2.only.However as you know and stated in the video,DJI intends to release a firmware update that allows the Mavic Air 2 to work with the Smart Controller,,the Mavic Air 2 uses an enhanced version of OcuSync.I would like to see DJI unlock the CrystalSky and the Smart Controller,which would greatly improve the viability of the given products.

[@7777russ]

In May 2020, DJI had an ad that said the smart controller would work with the MA2 soon, I bought the controller on 5/26 and still can't use it. that is 3 months waiting on DJI.

[@timdaugherty7612]

This is why I've hesitated buying one. I don't trust them to implement what they say!

[@markbsb7176]

Key word. “Soon”

[@7777russ]

From DJI:Can I use the DJI Smart Controller with Mavic Air 2? Yes. Mavic Air 2 will be compatible with the DJI Smart Controller through a future firmware update. @Hemp Tech

[@leonardoglesby1730]

I am waiting for the update to allow the Smart Controller with the MA2. I am currently using a repurposed iPhone 6S Plus which does quite well, but has all sorts of readability issues in bright sunlight. That is regardless of using a sunshade, and having the screen brightness set to the max. Fortunately this was a spare iPhone and not in general use, so it is dedicated to my MA2.

[@SirIronJim]

I'll likely do the Same with my iPhone X when the iPhone 12 becomes available, it connects nicely with the MA2, and has decent lighting on sunny days

[@yinshantang]

I wish MA2 could be updated to use smt controller soon. It’s already a waste that my crystalsky 5.5 is no longer in use. I hate to use my iPhone as part of the controller

[@Gorganahfikark]

Quite agree, waiting to see this smart controller update before I get the MA2 as I like the reviews I am hearing about the MA2

[@JubbinGrewal]

Still think this is worth it in 2021? Seems like they are discontinuing this (which is weird since the RC Pro is NOT backward compatible)

[@RelaxationWindows]

I’m buying a Mavic Pro 2 so deciding whether to get it with this or not. I can’t see any disadvantages to getting this controller yet - except price

[@declanmurphy1006]

I hate setting up the regular controller with my phone. I'll get this eventually but waiting for a better price.

[@macentropist1301]

Billy, you rock! I have a request please... slow down a bit. It is not a sprint but a marathon. Thank you.

[@pongus7718]

🅱️

[@Jannatskitchen-ln8zo]

@@de9751 me too

[@ex2ex2ex2]

Turn off the "SPORTS" mode

[@faisala5437]

xD YEAH

[@MachineCraft1]

Video was great. Answered a question I had been worried about. Direct and to the point. Speed was fine.

[@brikkman4700]

No mention of range extension. At that price point, I would expect it to boost the range or strengthen the signal

[@onthemovewithfiifi5811]

Hey Billy, thank you. You convinced me. I finally bought the smart controller. It wasn't easy, man, cause of the cost. Once I got my hands on it, boy O boy, I lovef it. The build quality is great. The peace of mind and comfort. A very cool screen to work it. Just love it.

[@mikehrenak1390]

Are you still happy with it what drone do you have on the move

[@YellowRoseDrones]

Billy, thank you. I just ordered the smart controller. My regular M2P controller developed a problem with the bottom USB port recently. Scary when your video feed drops out in mid stream. So, I could spend a couple of hundred dollars to replace or repair the old one, or $800 (w tax) for the smart controller. Your video helped me. I've got the Evo 2 Pro 6k drone also, but use a full sized iPad tablet with it.

[@JohnCuppi]

One other thing about the Smart Controller - it is currently the only device capable of getting HDMI video in & out over the USB-C port with DJI FPV goggles

[@Eat_More_Possum]

John Cuppi HDMI in?

[@forestweston5055]

One major issue with the smart controller is processor speed; it is simply outdated and out paced by newer hardware. It is not capable of running some 3rd party software used to control automated missions such as mapping grids, building inspections, and waypoint flights.

[@SideshowBob44]

MA2 Controller is the best imo, with the screen above the controls, and it's easier transferring photos/videos straight to the phone if the app is on it.

[@SirIronJim]

I do like the MA2 Controller, it is similar to the S/C, I somewhat favor my MA2 controller over my S/C on because I can use IOS with the MA2 controller

[@cnyphotovideo]

Good purchase Billy. For me as a quadriplegic with finger dexterity trouble the all in one form factor is awesome. It’s a bit pricey but if people can afford it, get it. 👍🏻

[@timdaugherty7612]

I love the smart controller and can't imagine flying without it now. I hated my phone being out of commission, and also love the screen in bright conditions. The big question to me is whether it maintains compatibility with Mavic 3, future DJI drones, etc. If it's only going to be married to the Mavic 2 Pro that would sort of suck.

[@billykyle]

You hit the nail on the head!

[@timdaugherty7612]

@@billykyle Can you imagine a Mavic 3 release and then DJI trying to sell us an $800 Smart Controller 2 (or maybe it'll be the Smart Controller Pro Max)?? The answer to which is, Yes, I can imagine them doing that!

[@RonaldBrown59]

It is pretty expensive for a controller, but I really do enjoy flying with it. I'm glad you finally picked on up and you enjoy using it. Good review.

[@colin3dbox]

Good review dude but take a breath!

[@JohnRocker340]

Maybe for 3-4 hundred, way to much money for just the controller.

[@experiencesforsale]

You can buy an old iPad Mini 2 off eBay, an OTG cable and a tablet adapter for your regular RC for less than 100 bucks. Dedicated device. Leave it set up all the time: zero setup time. Actually this is what I do with my drone.

[@JohnRocker340]

@@experiencesforsale I use an Ipad Mini 4 now, the only downside is seeing the screen in daylight.

[@faisala5437]

yeah loool

[@luigynkaren062011]

@@JohnRocker340 should have bought a samsung sir

[@bobloranger]

Another question on the DJI Smart Controller. I have the controller paired to the Mavic Air 2s. When getting ready to take off, I first start the drone, so it's ready to pair to the controller. Then I start the controller. The following happens: Either the controller pairs with my drone immediately, and I can go fly it. Or, instead of that, the controller presents a new screen where I am forced to select from a list of drones. I cannot dismiss that screen without making a selection. Now get this! The ONLY drone in the list is my Mavic Air 2s - displaying a picture of itself. DJI programmers must assume I am selecting a different drone. Anyway, I press my finger on the photo of my Air 2s, and the software displays a short label at the bottom that says "Unpairing...". Have you ever seen anything like that? I am sure I keep the latest software updates installed on both the drone and the controller. Anyway, when I run into that problem, I have to shut off the controller and the drone and start all over again. The next time I try, I will either get a successful connection between controller and drone, or I will be presented with this rotary circus that ends up with the controller displaying "Unpairing...". Do you think I need to ship my controller to a DJI repair facility? Thanks in advance.

[@zoranm6432]

I found the same issue having to carry the stock controller for mapping. Now I just use the Mavic 2 Zoom with SC for inspections and my P4Pro with a 9.7 inch iPad for mapping. I love how easy it is getting the Mavic 2 up in the air quickly using the SC.

[@demetrios7632]

for 3:39 lightyears refer to distance not time. 😂 😂 😂

[@vinceflores9422]

Hi , Billy would you recommend buying a refurbished DJI smart controller from Amazon?

[@randyayscue3098]

Really like my SC. Love how quickly I can get to flying. Got mine with the Mavic 2 Pro combo.

[@Synergywellnessny]

I'm considering mavic air 2 , w smart controller and care refresh, but i have never flown a drone. do you recommend the care refresh?

[@annastayziaa]

thank you for your input! very helpful :)

[@SK-er4oy]

Is it still worth purchasing the Smart Controller in May 2021?

[@SK-er4oy]

@ᴛᵉˡᵉᵍʳᵃᵐ ᵐᵉ👉billy kyle _70 Hi Billy. My name is Shafik. Replying to your message about the surprise. Thanks.

[@BMacksAerialVisuals]

Just got mine 2 days ago. And I'm returning it today. The Fly app crashed 2x out of 5 flights with my Mavic Air 2. And I was never able to get any farther than 1500 ft in an area I have flown many times before and gotten distances over 1 mile. I also have the Mavic 2 Zoom, which did work flawlessly. But at that price point, EVERYTHING needs to work. Good video, BK.

[@billykyle]

Wow! Crazy. It’s been working solid for me, sorry to hear about your troubles!

[@exclusiveaerials]

When are you starting FPV droning Billy? It is so much fun I bet you would love it and never look back. Did you know if you get an FPV drone with the DJI FPV air unit and goggles, you can now plug the goggles into your Smart Controller for a second viewing screen, with an HDMI out which is awesome for me, as now you have the ability to live stream your FPV camera to a director/dop when you are on set with your fpv quad. This is a game changer for me as the digital FPV system has such better picture quality than the traditional analog transmission system for FPV

[@DaLittleOzzie]

Thanks, you produce great informative vids. I agree on most points re the smart controller. It's a nice piece of kit. One annoying problem I find with it is the speaker volume. I have the microphone & speakers maxed out in the settings but they are inadequate in an outside enviroment. When screen recording, the volume is almost inaudible. Anyone else finding this to be an issue?

[@TrevorDennis100]

Complete beginner here. What are the 'sticks' Billy refers to? 'Putting in the sticks' (that go behind the antennas when folded). [EDIT] I think I've got it. The little thumb controllers. I'm guessing they unscrew from the front to make the package smaller when not in use. Is that it?

[@bobloranger]

Hi Billy! I've got weak feeling in my fingers. So, can I use a stylus on the Smart Controller screen, like some people use on their Apple or Andoid pads?

[@billbishop8915]

Mr. Kyle - Question regarding mini iPad4; I reviewed one of your videos, which are great; and you indicated that you were using a mini iPad4, and my question is how do you see what your filming on your iPad on a bright sunny day? I've turned screen brightness to full, but still have problems seeing the screen. How do you do it?

[@billykyle]

I would typically try and find some shade to stand under or turn my back to the sun, a major PIA. That’s why I got the Smart Controller.

[@jesse2261]

I always found sitting in the car helps lol

[@jesse2261]

Will you be able to zoom on the other mavic drones since they pretty much have the same camera system when they get the fly app sync to it?

[@davebelton2183]

Just saw there is a vid explaining how toap way points now

[@d.hansel854]

(I have a DJI Mavic 2 Zoom) In another video the person said the gimbal and zoom control were switched. Can you reverse the controls in the software? I'm used to having the gimbal control on the left and zoom on the right. I wish the price would come down. Surely they have made up their research and development by now.

[@Believer7154]

Thank you. Well done sir. Much appreciated! Keep up the good works. Rock rock on!!!

[@r1rob504]

The smart controller update for the Mavic Air 2 is now available. 😀

[@henrytong8707]

Why is the Range on my stock controller better than my DJI Smart Controller? I fly over the same spots and the Smart controller is always losing signal.

[@garyr4047]

I'm looking at the Alientech mod for the Smart Controller. Looks interesting.?

[@billykyle]

It’s weird, isn’t it? I have been looking to upgrade my antennas too.

[@garyr4047]

@@billykyle I've been waiting to see what DJI comes up with on the SC firmware for the MA2 before getting the Alientech mod kit. Another concern is will the Mavic 3 still have Ocusync 2 or the rumored Ocusync 3 and if the SC will be able to work with the Mavic 3. Having said that, take a look at the Alientech website and look at the ALIENTECH DUO II 2.4G/5.8G Dual-band Signal Booster. It costs an arm and leg but if the specs are on then even with high interference it should get some distance..

[@choppergirl]

Can you use this with the DJI air unit in homebrew drones... like not just to recieve digital video, but also control the drone through the air unit. Father's day is the best time to buy DJI stuff, because they have a sale then.

[@billykyle]

Nah, no ability to link the two

[@choppergirl]

@@billykyle They must be going from the USB-C out on the DJI FPV digital goggles to the USB-C in on the smart controller, and then from the HDMI out on that to the TV. The question is, why can't they just build a stupid little box to do just that. And why didn't they upgrade their CrystalSkies Tablet to do that. Annoyed that DJI products just don't work with other DJI products... it's a mess.

[@SirIronJim]

I bought this controller before the tariffs war with China, the cost was $649.00, for me, the selling point was that it would be compatible with the newer drones that use Occusync, I now have it paired with my Mavic 2 Pro, and Phantom 4 V2 + (yeah I know, why buy a P4 V2+ if you have a Smart Controller already, it gives me the ability to fly both drones with family members when needed), I find the SC very easy to pack, it fits in the M2P cary bag very easy for minimal packing, and on the days when I'm flying the P4 V2+, it's a lot smaller and lighter the the P4 Controller. I really did not want to spend the money on the SC, but after using it, there is absolutely no way I would ever use the standard controller again, unless it was an emergency whereas my SC stopped working, and in which case, I'd would definitely purchase it again, of course, that's just my opinion.

[@klrskir]

Love mine! Saved money as a combo.

[@experiencesforsale]

You can buy an old iPad Mini 2 off eBay, an OTG cable and a tablet adapter for your regular RC for less than 100 bucks. Dedicated device. Leave it set up all the time: zero setup time. Actually this is what I do with my drone.

[@kenkeng5824]

Much better than using your phone. Like it, glad I got it.

[@ellarpc]

Does the OG mavic pro controller work with the mavic air 2 and mavic pro 2?

[@nicksgarage2]

I wanted to buy this but now they have the new one with the Mavic 3. I'd assume they're going to make that controller backward compatible with other drones. Maybe you can do a comparison video.

[@thanhhungrestaurant8348]

Interesting comment regarding the inability to dl 3rd party app on this smart controller. Just 2 days ago, I went on fb DJI Owners Group and asked if I can dl Litchi onto this smart controller, and the answer was 'Yes' - I can dl Litchi onto this smart controller and use it.

[@MathewTrent]

I was going to buy the smart controller but I’m going to wait for the Mavic 3 to come out first because I do not think it will be compatible. The Mavic 3 will have OcuSync 3.0 and the smart controller uses OcuSync 2.0.

[@onceuponahill1114]

You can easily get the play store on the device and use all kinds of apps. So that's not a drawback. It just takes a little know how.

[@garyr4047]

I've read in some forums that the Smart Controller doesn't have the distance that the regular controllers have. Have you experienced this ?

[@billykyle]

Yes, like Lon said, this is correct.

[@flywrightdrones]

I just got mine as well and I’ll also mention that it charges INCREDIBLY slow unless you use a higher amp charger. Mine didn’t come with one so I bought one on amazon.

[@SirIronJim]

Mines had came with a quick charger, it does a good job charging the controller, anyone purchasing the S/C should make sure that a quick charger is included

[@tenhomebuyers5313]

Fly Wright Drones would you mind providing a link? Would really appreciate it! Or at least the name.. cheers!

[@jasonjahnkeinla]

Your right! I just got a samung s8plus. I only use it as a display. It's always on my controller and never comes out. 1200nits. Runs ever app. Lol if you know us android please were going to say all this... Why didn't your try it first? :-) I just got my Air2. And I was looking at the smart controller. You know what. It was cheaper to get another used s8plus. I'm way happier buddy.

[@keithbrown454]

A good and detailed video on the DJI smart controller. Another poking reason in my mind to get it. I have debated & debated in my head about getting this controller. I must admit that the price is really the hanger for me. It's looks and seems like a nice and beefy controller, which I like. $750 smacker-roos is no chump change for a separate drone controller. At the end of the day, I would say it is worth it in the long run. I use the standard Mavic 2 Pro controller, an iPad, and a tablet-remote controller mount.......not a quick setup and go method. Thanks Billy!

[@billykyle]

Thanks Keith. That set up you have is great 👍🏼

[@oliverserek6853]

Hi Billy Kyle. question for you, or anyone actually. when you say "mapping" in your video and that that is the reason that you still use the old remote, are you referring to 3D mapping? Reason I ask is because I would need this smart controller with Mavic 2 Pro to support pre-programmed flightpaths, which i believe is done with Waypoints 2.0, and which is supported by the smart controller? is this correct? Thanks!!!

[@ForTheLoveOfSuits]

Thanks Billy. I was just planning to get one so I wonder: if you factor in battery drain on your phone how dose the smart controller battery life feel? Keeping my phone charged for other uses while on a job is a factor when flying my drone. The smart controller might be a good option for me. And connection problems while trying to get the fiddly lighting cable into my iPhone causes me the most headaches on a job.

[@ezearo]

One big advantage is being able to fly and charge the SC using a powerbank via the USB C.

[@billykyle]

You can charge the standard remote while flying also if you plug your mobile device into the USB A port on the back of the remote, but then you have a lot of wires hanging around. The USB C port is a much simpler solution, just like the Smart Controller itself is. No need for a mobile device to slow you down.

[@giantasparagus]

Has there been any rumors if they're making a new version or the smart controller w/ Ocusync 3? Not a fan of the giant controllers coming with the new drones or ones being released soon. Built in screen makes such a difference.

[@VincentMartinFree]

Billy, I have a question about the smart controller and the DJI goggles. If by chance do you know can you use them together, or if you try it, do a video on that. I have all the DJI drones I have to Smart controller and I have a goggles. But as I said before I am just a recreational flyer and I don't get to fly as much because of my location where I live near the airport

[@JavierGarroJMPCreations]

I have a question does the hdmi output only show the image of the drone or the entire control displey? thanks 🙏

[@ChristiaanRoest79]

I am thinking of buying one now since its compatible with the mavic air 2 now. Seems like a very convenient controller, except for the screen placement.

[@Mtrossell100]

Hi Can you download 4K video from the drone onto the smart controller/ sd card

[@michaelwayneprange5495]

Your mavic 2 manual Says charge the controller before each flight. 100%before each flight

[@DroneIowa]

Billy I thought we could do DroneDeploy on the this smart controller? The DJI website says 3rd party apps are allowed. Are you sure DD doesn’t work with this controller?

[@BrianKushner]

What happens when Mavic 3 comes out and new transmission version?

[@billykyle]

SOL?

[@constantinofourniotis96]

Hey Billy, what’s the last update for the Mavic 2 Pro? Have you updated, did you see anything you disliked? Thanks

[@springerdog7015]

How do you charge and fly at the same time? Also thoughts on using it with the Mavic Air 2?

[@billykyle]

Works great with the mavic air 2. You charge through the USB C port

[@activbb6660]

with Smart Controller running Pilot V1.8.0 (Pilot PE?), does it support M2P? DJI Forum was not clear. Any comment? Thanks for replying

[@dksob81]

Will the smart controller work with the Mavic Pro Platinum? I know it is not listed as compatible but the MAVIC 2 and MAVIC PRO PLATINUM both use the DJI GO app

[@ssb73q]

Hi, other than easy setup, I don't see the need for the smart controller with the Mavic Air 2 considering cost. For about $350 one can buy a Apple Ipad mini 5 (500nits) or a Samsung Note 8 (1200nits) and have increased functionality. BTW, while nits specs are nice, eye perception is logarithmic where perceived brightness differences based on nits specs is sometimes misleading.

[@tvz857]

Billy - Have you tried the Tripltek tablet with the remote for either the Maivc Air 2 or Mavic 2 Pro? I'd be curious as to your opinion if so.

[@barrystrickland6527]

What is the distance between the control sticks? I only have one useable hand.

[@rickywangham]

does it backward compatible with magic pro.

[@nickstl77]

Are you sure the App Store isn’t available? The DJI promo video shows all kinds of 3rd party apps - including Pix4D - running on it.

[@Alines_horseconnection]

I am new to drones, what do you mean by mapping capabilities?

[@123DOWNUNDER890]

Can I use the remote for other drone companies or is it only exclusively for DJI?

[@MrEddieNunez]

looks like its time to charge it again, based on your video, lol. I love mine. I added a modded antenna because in NYC the range sucks with this controller.

[@ezearo]

Which antenna setup did you go with?

[@MrEddieNunez]

E Zearo alientech

[@billykyle]

Thinking about upgrading the antenna

[@davidwhendricks6979]

Just ordered it. My Samsung phone will have app dropouts while flying, with a blank screen. Real disconcerting! And always the dark screen lacking details. A host of other issues have convinced me the Smart Controller is the way to go for Mavic Air 2. Thanks.

[@AtomkeySinclair]

I use a 10 inch lenovo tablet and I love the view space. But it takes a while to set it up. I like the idea of this controller being ready to go. But going to a smaller screen would be a pain.

[@billykyle]

More portable

[@PHANTOMFlight101]

Like that smart controller. Still up in the air on it. Don't know what other drones my be compatible with it in 2021. Looks like they gave up on the Crystal sky. Good one Billy.

[@thelongarmmarine]

Tho I recently got a Mini 4 Pro, I just got a refurbished one, that I can plug in my Moviero glasses, w/o having to do a screen mirror…great fun way to fly!

[@JoseTheRover]

Great analysis! Thank you!

[@TheGroundBelow]

Hi Billy, you make really good videos, clear and easy to understand so people can build their knowledge and this has helped me from day one of getting into drones. I wonder if I could ask you a question about the Smart Controller, linked to maps. When I got my first drone it was a Spark, I used iOS and Litchi, with Google Maps. Now I have upgraded to a Mavic Zoom and have a Smart controller, I’m super happy with everything apart from one thing, the Maps. When I’m in the DJI go4 app to do waypoints and such like the maps are really poor, very outdated and not very detailed or clear for planning missions. Is there a way to use Google maps on the smart controller? If there is please share it as my experience with litchi set the bar with the maps, now I have a better drone and controller but poor maps😀 Thanks Jason (UK)

[@briangaskamp5024]

thinking abt upgrading but i’m soo used to the controls being on the bottom and display being on top, seems this way ur hands would block the display?

[@KNIGHT-FLIGHT]

hey does anyone know if they did a firm update for 03 for that controller???

[@chrispoulsen_]

I’m not a professionel nor do I fly every day, but flying a drone with a smartphone or a tablet is such a destructive workflow. Just the fact you need to bring an extra device is a huge con. If you need to go from spot to spot and take the drone down it’s so fast to setup again. So of course I have the Smart Controller. It’s worth every dollar and I don’t understand you can live without.

[@roberts.9342]

Love my Smart Controller. It's so much easier then having to deal with a phone or tablet since those are added pieces of equipment you have to bring along as well as some sort of tablet mount. Plus it's so easy to switch between my M2P and M2Z with just a touch of the screen to switch drones. As for the cost, people spend much more for their cell phones and even some tablets.

[@noname6568]

What happens when FFA shuts most drone lovers.

[@roberts.9342]

Not sure what you mean by your comment Mark Childers. Or what it has to do with the Smart Controller.

[@noname6568]

@@roberts.9342 FAA will have all China made drones, like dji illegal to Operate in the us.

[@billykyle]

Guess he believes everything he reads 🥴

[@roberts.9342]

@@noname6568 I don't see that happening. I know they said that for goverment agencies. Where do they think cell phones, smart tv's and other smart devices are made. If they were going to spy why uses drones when only a few thousands own in the USA versus millions of cell phone and smart appliance owners. Lets be real, would be a waste of this countries time and money.

[@thomaswindfeld728]

Thanx for making this video! Do you know if the controller has any accessibility options - zoom, larger letters ect like an ordinary Android tablts or IOS has?

[@ALTN8NRG]

They need to enable it for Mini 2. It may get pushed out of production especially at that price.

[@ToyotaandDodgeGarage]

I am thinking about getting air 2 combo with smart controller. Good video!

[@WadersInAlaska]

Great review! Thanks! I would love to give it a try; maybe I will be buying it in the future for my MAII. Cheers from Alaska!!

[@alonzoapple9894]

I love my smart controller!! Can't wait to be able to fly the Air and maybe the Mini!!!

[@faisala5437]

yeah i love it too

[@russellharden1241]

Will the Smart Controller work with the Inspire 2 Drone?

[@froochie123]

Some buddies gave me heat for buying the More package with Smart Controller but for some new pilots like me, its a cheaper alternative. My cell phone is a work phone and its old. A personal cell phone isn't something I've owned in years. In my situation I would have to either buy a new tablet/smart phone and the adapter to hold it. There are no viable options that have me spending less than $400 to do that. Instead, I paid the $400 towards the package and have a nice remote for my new drone (Air 2) and any others I may upgrade to one day.

[@UFOSPACEMAN]

Best Drone Channel on KZbin!

[@meyowind5743]

Now does it download the videos automatically to our phones?