DJI RC Pro vs. DJI Smart Controller - What’s the Difference?

The new DJI RC Pro replaces the Smart Controller with plenty of upgrades.
DJI Mavic 3: click.dji.com/AFuUqP6CFlW_lyl...
DJI Mavic 3 Playlist: • DJI Mavic 3
Timestamps:
00:00 - 00:08 - Intro
00:08 - 03:06 - DJI Smart Controller Recap
03:06 - 04:43 - DJI RC Pro Compatibility
04:43 - 07:25 - DJI RC Pro Device Overview
07:25 - 10:09 - DJI RC Pro Software Overview
10:09 - 12:39 - Final Thoughts
-
My Gear:
DJI Mavic 3:
DJI - click.dji.com/AFuUqP6CFlW_lyl...
Moment - moment.8ocm68.net/NKRkP2
Adorama - adorama.rfvk.net/RyZ5ab
DJI RC Pro:
DJI - click.dji.com/AMEkmItF9v5E2e6...
Moment - moment.8ocm68.net/KeOj99
DJI FPV Drone:
DJI - click.dji.com/AKF_dvjbpXPvX3D...
Moment - moment.8ocm68.net/n1Xz9M
Adorama - adorama.rfvk.net/5bygLN
DJI Air 2S:
DJI - click.dji.com/ABvPtwhED_kVpu9...
Moment - moment.8ocm68.net/NKGxz7
Adorama - adorama.rfvk.net/a120OR
Sony a7 III:
Moment - moment.8ocm68.net/JrOzQE
Adorama - adorama.rfvk.net/XxGYZg
Sony GM 16-25 f2.8:
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Adorama - adorama.rfvk.net/zaPNq6
DJI Mic:
click.dji.com/AMAHSbWsD__kKwd...
Studio Mic:
Amazon - amzn.to/36mw5J8
Adorama - adorama.rfvk.net/n1PLBX
EcoFlow Delta Mini:
ecoflow.com?aff=95
SanDisk SSD:
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Adorama - adorama.rfvk.net/vnQNOj
MacBook Pro M1 Max:
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iPad mini:
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Peak Design 30L Backpack V2:
Moment - moment.8ocm68.net/LPOXWY
Adorama - adorama.rfvk.net/x9rkRv
SanDisk SD Cards:
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Adorama - adorama.rfvk.net/9Wngr3
SanDisk Micro SD Cards:
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ALL GEAR:
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[@cnyphotovideo]

Thanks Billy. One thing I’ve heard mention of is that on the control sticks of the new smart controller the threaded part that screws in is extremely small and some people think it might be fragile. Something to keep an eye on.

[@petesig93]

Great to get a review comparing the controllers. I have just ordered an RC-Pro for my Air2S. It is now backwards-compatible with the Air2S, according to my supplier.

[@RonaldBrown59]

Thanks for this excellent comparison of these controllers, I just got the Mavic 3 and very interested in getting the RC Pro. It seems to have a got going for it, and a nice upgrade over the first version.

[@fletcherbrown728]

I could never see the screen clearly using the standard controller any my iPhone Xs Max. I switched to the smart controller and never looked back. As the lyrics go "I can see clearly now". Can't understand why you would want to switch back to the standard controller and phone. Worth every penny i spent on the Smart Controller.

[@jetsetjoey]

One of his two BIGGEST gripes, for the Smart Controller was poor battery life, YET he did not discuss battery life with the RC Pro (unless I missed it!)...

[@ujuanuli2935]

No kidding

[@MrEye4get]

Support for "other" drones is a deal breaker! You comments about upgrading for a Mavic 3 and DJI RC pro are spot on. I'll wait until laws make me buy new drones!

[@BillTheDroneReviewer]

Billy excellent comparison between the Smart Controller and the RC Pro. Really like the improvements especially the range, upgraded internals, and the ability t connect to a mobile network.

[@HeliosDroneWorks]

I’m new to your channel but a genuine thank you for what you do! It’s been really helpful, particularly videoed like this Thanks!

[@PascalSupply]

Thanks Billy for the clear review. On November 2022, we still cannot connect 2 RC's to 1 drone with the DJI RC Pro. On the DJI Smart Controller it was standard and was a good function for teaching or when flying with a camera specialist who could decide on taking the shots or footage. Hopefully this feature will come soon!

[@mikebel74]

Brilliant. These are all things I’ve been wondering about. Good info well presented. Thank you!

[@noel5141]

I’ve used both and I could say that the RC pro controller has better range for sure just tested it out today and confirmed. Worth the upgrade for sure

[@thegman7523]

Thanks for going over the 3rd party apps. I had the Phantom4 "smart" controller. I love the screen, very bright but if I wanted to use Pix4d, drone deploy, etc I was out of luck. I know everyone raved about the smart controller and I wasn't going to fall for that trick again I'll wait until apps come out on the rc before I get it.

[@vonheise]

Thanks, but many of us would like to see a comparison between the RC Pro vs the standard controller that comes with the Fly More Combo Mavic 3. I am torn between the basic controller with the Tripltek 8 compared to RC Pro.

[@bobfiore8]

Great video! I have the original and I been using the New RC Pro w/M3 for a week now. changes the whole experience in my opinion. For me it’s the way to go. The signal strength and increased battery life Is very noticeable.

[@wiseanime2875]

Vs stock. Does it improve range?

[@jd2161]

Battery shouldnt be a factor. The default controller lasts days

[@dougcooper4917]

Great Review Billy. Thank You.

[@billdyer8981]

I just purchased an Air 2S with the RC Pro Controller and it works just fine. No comparability issues at all.

[@MrRaymond1021]

Yeah, I was really hoping for a new smart controller, but compatible with the older models. I still don't think it's going to be compatible with the MA2 which is a bummer. Thanks for sharing Billy, awesome video as always. Thanks again. 👍👍👍

[@johnbroman7134]

Once again, great video! Thanks

[@intrademan]

Great video. Thanks

[@lightexplorer]

Awesome video. Thank you for the comparison.

[@robertbrittany4151]

Excellent reviews. We always appreciate your opinion.

[@rodriguezahr]

Thanks for the review. I wish they made the screen a bit bigger as there is plenty of rpm for it. Also I would like to know if the new controller’s battery life is better. Thanks again.

[@johndenardo2184]

Great information Billy. Thank you 👍🏽

[@markkempton4579]

Thanks for this. I've been thrilled with my SC and found it 100x better than the stock controller with my first drone (Air). The battery and screen were so much better than using my phone, which was an issue b/c I couldn't reply to text messages, etc. The battery on my SC lasts forever if I don't fly and I only charge it every dozen or so flights. The lack of internet is a plus for me. I think it helps with battery life not powering a CDMA or GSM radio. I get the updates I need every time it's in the house charging (firmware check is part of your regular maintenance routine), so I never felt like i was missing something. My biggest disappointment is the price. My SC was a $400 upcharge with my M2P. The RC Pro is $900 on the M3P. I just wish they'd upgrade the SC through firmware and a new radio and I'd be happy to use it forever. I live by the D pad and am disappointed the RC does not have one. Great comparison. Best I've found. Thank you again!

[@billykyle]

Built in screen is such a game changer

[@VivoFotografie-DroneInspecties]

Great review! Ill hope de rc pro will be available soon.

[@MVMTV4Videos]

Well done Billy,. thanks 4 sharing

[@williamkterrell]

E excellent information, thanks for sharing!

[@kineretmikestory6450]

Thanks for the good info billy😊

[@HafizFirdausBinAbdullah]

Hi, great review. Can I record video and audio (using external mic) at the same time on the RC Pro?

[@ToddtheLoneDroner]

Pretty sweet dude I just bought it thanks

[@DronieUp]

Hi Billy, I’m seeing new vids showing an Air2s with the RC Pro. Can you confirm if the RC Pro is now compatible with the Air 2s?

[@scottkint]

Hi Billy, Always a great review. Love your channel. That being said, I’m trying to connect my Cine smart controller to my iphone to transfer photos wirelessly if possible. Wondering if you have a video on this? Following the menus to send to my iphone through Bluetooth results in a message that it is not sent. My phone appears on the list of connected Bluetooth devices. Thanks!

[@VisionCommunications]

Nice review.. The thing is, I’m not getting a Mavic 3 if I have to buy another smart controller to have freedom from using my phone. I actually like using the current smart controller with my Mavic 2 Zoom and Air 2S. If I need to do something that requires longer range, I get the stock controller. I would get the Mavic 3 if they made it compatible with the old smart controller, even if range was limited.

[@LifeAsDane]

Agreed. Corporate bs

[@magneticnorseman]

Totally agree on this. Mavic 3 would already be in my arsenal if they made the "old" smart controller compatible, for sure.

[@ChristiaanRoest79]

The smart controller isnt fast enough to use with M3.

[@ChristiaanRoest79]

@@LifeAsDane Nope, the chipset/processor isnt fast enough to use with Mavic 3. I have used the smart controller with air2s and it was lagging like crazy. Sucks.

[@magneticnorseman]

@@ChristiaanRoest79 True but sad ;-)

[@drbdrbrobertdrbdrb]

Very nice comparison! I'm considering upgrading from the standard Mavic 3 remote to the RC Pro as i'm missing some buttons (C1, C2 and 5D button) on the standard remote, that used to be present on a standard Mavic 2 remote. I have a question about the file storage. Since you can place a micro SD card, is it possible to download full size RAW files and 4k video onto the SD card as a backup? This would be great on trips to have a backup of the footage, in case of crashing the drone! Additionally, would it also be possible to back up pictures when plugging in a camera in the USB-C port to the micro SD card? This would give it a double functions as a sort of Gnarbox, would be useful! Curious to hear from you, cheers!

[@matt-770]

Great stuff, Billy is the Smart controller Pro backwards compatible with earlier quads particularly the M2P?

[@waynegaskell]

Thanks for the vid, great comparison. Are you aware if the DJI Smart Controller is compatible with the Mini 3 pro ?

[@rbengraff]

Another great review Billy, thanks! The one thing that you didn’t cover which I guess most people already know if they owned the smart controller was what is its method of communication for downloading maps. Another words if I go to an area that I’ve never been before and I have no cellular data, how do I get my maps and my satellite views if I want them. I know with the iPhone you can store maps ahead of time, is that the same deal with this?

[@sutats]

Been flying a newly unboxed DJI Mini 2 Fly More Combo and noticed in dense areas the transmission range isn't great with the RC-N1 that comes with it.

[@AlanCath]

Helpful, thank you

[@chadderrington9983]

The RC Pro comes in the Fly More combo for the Air 2s in December 2021. The issue I have at the moment is that none of the hard cases I have seen will hold the Air 2s Fly More and the RC Pro controller.

[@RonBowen1953]

I just got the DJI RC Pro, and for the most part, it has been to hot and windy to get a real feel of it. It did cost me more than the Air 2S I have. The few times I did fly it, it really seemed to handle smoothly thou. Only wish I did not have to use my phone as a hot spot spot, as it has a 4G module hook up that not supported in the US, and I do not want to spend more money on one to find out if Verision would work with it as a data transfer for maps. Iowa out. Thanks for the videos.

[@fabianhiggins1430]

Thanks for a very informative video. Are there any compatible external devices (Like a Samsung tablet) that can be used with a smart controller? Screen is way too small for "search & rescue" ops. I have tried quite a few external devices with NO LUCK! Any advice? Using the Mavic 2 Pro Enterprise Advanced with the smart controller.

[@erhvervs-portrt-ogbryllups7117]

Great review - today it's November 23rd abd DJI write this 👉🏼 Compatibility - DJI Mavic 3 Classic, DJI Mavic 3, DJI Mavic 3 Cine, DJI Mini 3 Pro, DJI Air 2S

[@RW12345]

Will it fit in the bag you get with the combo edition? Nice review.

[@DeeRickDup]

Excellent video as always. Can you compare the new DJI Smart Controller to the regular controller with the Tripltek 8" tablet? which do you prefer?

[@Naesman1167]

Hi Billie. Really enjoy your reviews. I know this review is a little older. I’d like clarification on the point of 3rd party apps that you can download to the RC Pro. First there is a misconception that the Mavic 3 doesn’t support waypoints which isn’t entirely true. The hyper lapse feature uses waypoints which means with SDK release 3rd party apps should be able to perform autonomous missions with M3. With that said, are you saying you can’t download and install the Drone Deploy app or do you mean once installed it won’t work because the SDK for the M3 hasn’t been released yet to 3rd party apps?

[@-p-1313]

Amazing video

[@3nch1]

Hi i have cine 3 and dji rc pro but cant set 1080i@50 on hdmi output, only 1080p, but my video mixer cant read progressive resolution

[@TriniWeekes]

thank you

[@g8939]

Regarding the mobile network, Is there a slot for a sim? If no, I wonder if it's a sim less service from DJI or they they'll add a sim slot with a future "s" upgrade

[@jkspinalchoice]

Great video the RC Pro looks awesome! In the mean time, I broke my antenna on DJI Smart Controller. Any recommendations on getting it repaired?

[@harrisongould9460]

UPDATE: The AIR2S, if bought with the combo including the 'NEW' RC PRO controller is now available. My question is...if I have a Tripltek 8" Pro tablet, should I consider this 'Combo/RC'' offer or get the Air2S combo with just the regular controller? Just as an FYI...I freak when I loose connection. Thoughts?

[@flashvickmiss9265]

Question Mr Kyle. Can you fly the dji mavic 3 with the old SMART CONTROLLER or do you need the RC PRO to fly it?

[@anoctobertale3794]

Hey, thanks for that great video. I do have the old smart controller. I'm thinking of buying the dji mini 3 pro. Can I still use that old controller with the dji mini 3 pro?

[@williamsimin]

Thanks

[@chattanoogajon957]

Can you control the aperture with one of the wheels on the new smart controller?

[@KNIGHT-FLIGHT]

Beautiful blog... Maybe you can tell me what no one else can... My Air 2S only goes 19 mph,, im only able to go 60m in my area,,, is this the reason why,, or is it something I need to do to my drone???

[@marcocristalli]

Hi Billy, does the new RC-PRO has the FPV Out app? I would like to know if it's compatible with the DJI FPV System. Thank you.

[@ogrady4444]

Billy, is the screen size the same on the two models? and am I right in saying the distance between the two antennas are different? I have a range extender for the old smart controller and I can't get it to fit on the new RC controller ???

[@petersalatas4254]

Can you program the customizable buttons to change flight modes to Atti mode?

[@Fee.1]

What has a better transmission system the RC pro or the new smart controller from the mini three Pro

[@yinshantang]

For mobile data connection you probably need a SIM card bound to a mobile service provider?

[@dondupuis4007]

Your video was very informative, great job👍 Base on the info, I don’t think I will upgrade to RC pro, I purchased the smart controller last year. I want a controller to fly my drone not as a tablet or phone. the addition of capability with Fire Fox is not a plus to me. They sell a high end mini tablet with 1200 nits of brightness for less money, and the tablet can be use with all drones. Plus who knows when dji will change the smart controller again? Next year, 2 year? Dji upgraded the Smart Controller to work with the S2 now, and it does work, just not at the level it does with the standard controller that comes with the S2. But the Smart Controller screen with 1000 nits did spoil me, can’t go back to a phone now. Yep looking closer at the 1200 nits mini tablet.

[@MattysRCWorld]

I hope they make this new RC Pro backwards compatable one day! great review Billy! By the way, that thumb of yours looks like it friggin hurts man!!

[@mhmphotography400]

Billy I just bought the Pro Controller for my air 2S. Will the charger that came with my air 2S charge the Pro Controller.

[@robert-gille]

Does the RC Pro also support video input from the DJI FPV Goggles via USB and output via HDMI? (FPV Live App)

[@thatguy9482]

Question, I can't use my s22s phone for my mavic zoom, was thinking about getting the smart controller for it, but I am going to buy the mavic 3 pro with smart controller later on this year. Should I get the smart controller now or just wait and get the mavic 3 pro?

[@JC-tx1pd]

The RC Pro controler from the Mavic 3 can be used with the Maic 2 Pro and the mavic Mini 3 Pro? Thanks.

[@thefirm9679]

Good Video

[@johnc1848]

Do you make a lanyard attachment for the smart controller?

[@hopeforthefuturesg]

does the smart controller work with the Mavic pro 3 or only the RC pro controller

[@mauibuilder1239]

Is the DJI Mini 3 Pro backwards compatible with the DJI Smart Controller (similar to Air 2s was)? I like the 1000 nits brightness and Don't want to spend $1199 for the RC Pro. Any information would be greatly appreciated.

[@danielgrobe]

Great video. Was wondering if there had been any updates recently regarding the compatible of previous drones. I have a mavic 2, and use the stock controller. Was looking to get the smart controller and saw this new rc pro. Any word on that yet?

[@billykyle]

RC Pro is not compatible with the Mavic 2 series.

[@Jasonschneee]

Hi, i have the mavic 2 zoom with the pro controller. His accu is daying. But I don't have the money for a smart controller. So the gray start controller that you showed is also compatible to the mavic 2 zoom?

[@Kakkoii_ne]

Billy, cant you just use the M3 stock controller with cellular iPad? I have a lot of functionality with that, can stream, download to iPad, update firmware and more.

[@tjsound1258]

What do you think as a 1st time buyer? I'm awaiting shipment for the mini 3 Pro with the dji rc controller and extended batts.

[@HenPapirman]

Any news regarding the mini 3? :)

[@rickywangham]

will these controller compatible with magic pro.

[@zoeydee7168]

.35 watts transmission power and O2 for the smart controller verses 2 watts and O3+ for the smart controller pro is a huge, huge increase in power and therefore range if connected to an O3+ drone

[@TruckDriver326]

I'm lookin for Video on how to get those 3rd party apps on the RC Pro.

[@orozcocris93]

Has it been updated to work with mini 3 pro and even mavic 3 pro?

[@edman1015]

I have the first version of the DJI Smart Controller that I use with my Mavic Air 2. I use the Smart Controller's HDMI out with a couple of different goggles and it was worth the buy to get the HDMI out.

[@69DUDLEY]

M2Zoom not crashed or lost it in 5 years where can I find refurbished any shape I replace parts or is a blanked or is a dedicated ios air2

[@georgeheitman7550]

Can I sync the pro controller to my phone so I will have the pictures on both

[@HiFocusedCinematography]

Just got this is there really no way to set the right wheel to be shutter or aperture??? I'd way rather have aperture rather than digital crop.

[@dredayproworkers4977]

So will the RC pro still work for the (mavic 3 classic)?

[@kobi2002]

The transmission on this is awesome for sure. I can go further from where I am vs smart controller.

[@VincentMartinFree]

I have a question about the Mavic 3 I just got mind and I am not sure if i am have a problems with it or not. My camera doesn't twist and turn like my other Mavic drones when it is booting up, is this normal for this one? and my auxiliary lights on the bottom do not come on, do it have to be up in the air before they work? Is this also something new with the Mavic 3? I have not put it in the air yet, thinking something will happen to this expensive drone. I would love to hear your feedback on this

[@youcanthandlethetruther]

Does the rc pro allow the volume to be lowered when beeping?

[@Droneswayup]

How do you record audio with the dji rc pro?

[@kalkydra]

Does the RC Pro Controller supports the new functionality quick-transfer with WiFi 6?. In the controller official dji website says it supports WiFi 6. But in other review it said it did not supported this feature.

[@chadgilmore5046]

Does this RC come with a quick charging brick and cable

[@texassportsguide]

Have you tried installing the DJI Go 4 apk on the RC Pro and flying the Mavic 2?

[@eddieblanco2992]

Does the new RC PRO remote have better signal range than the stock remote?

[@vttc50]

How do you easily download the latest firmware for the latest RC?

[@MangopoAnd]

I don't quit agree with you on that I have zero problem with my smart controller paired with my dji mavic air 2 range is perfect and battery life of that smart controller is good I'm at 100% brightness have 5 drone batteries no problem controller still at 76% after the flight maybe by changing the battery would help

[@tristanh8957]

Cool thing is the air2 s ships with the rc pro instead of the smart controller. Bundle is still the same price and it works great!

[@rlfisher]

Great and helpful video. I am about to buy my first drone - the Air 2S makes the most sense for me (landscape photography). The old Smart Controller has many limitations that you mentioned, and is also no longer offered. I am trying to decide if I should take the standard (pair with phone) controller or wait for the RC (not RC Pro) to become available with the Air 2S. I'm weighing size/portability (for my camera pack) vs. better features, screen brightness in the RC. Any thoughts?

[@petesig93]

Rc-Pro is now compatible to the Air2S. I have just ordered one. I am also concerned about the size, for use on bicycle tours, but the mobile screen visibility when using the standard controller is woeful. Phone goes dim in bright light, when the screen heats up. No effective controller then.

[@rlfisher]

@@petesig93 I am waiting for the Air2S-RC bundle. Rc Pro is overkill for my use (and budget).

[@keithvoller4424]

as of now 5/3/22 i have just purchased RC pro and works with my Air 2S. just getting used to it

[@michaelentsie938]

Pleaae can i link my mavic pro to a smart controller (DJI RC), because i need HDMI feed