Battle Of The Drones: New GoPro Karma Vs DJI Phantom 4

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Drones continue to increase in popularity, and the battle for supremacy is hotting up with the launch of the new GoPro Karma.

The market is currently dominated by DJI, which has just released its Phantom 4 drone, but that could all change thanks to the first consumer drone from action camera manufacturer GoPro. Here is a comparison of the two drones, thanks to Vamien KcKalin of Tech Times.

How does the GoPro Karma drone compare to the DJI Phantom 4?

Both of the drones are new, although DJI has released three previous versions of its Phantom series. Each of its drones has received great reviews from consumers.

In comparison the GoPro Karma is the first drone from the company. At first glance it looks like a decent effort, although some commentators have pointed out that it is missing a few key features.

That said the DJI Phantom 4 is more expensive, at $1,200. It is a little bit smaller than the GoPro Karma, but you will have to shell out a further $200 for a DJI backpack if you want to carry the Phantom 4 around.

The DJI Phantom 4 comes with a 4K camera that should provide crisp, clear visuals. The camera is fixed to the drone, so you can’t expect to use it on the ground.

Simple Karma versus complex Phantom 4

One criticism of the DJI drone is its complicated design that requires plenty of moving parts. In that regard GoPro has done a better job with the Karma drone, which has minimal moving parts and can be easily folded for transportation.

While the Phantom 4 can be difficult to use, it has a huge number of features such as different flight modes and an obstacle avoidance system.

The Phantom 4 controller requires a smartphone or a tablet to be attached in order to fly the drone. In comparison the GoPro Karma has a controller, with screen, that can control the drone by itself. One drawback is the lack of an option to use a smartphone, because if the controller screen is damaged you will have to buy a new one.

Phantom 4 has more features, Karma more accessible

With a top speed of 45 miles per hour the Phantom 4 is fast. It looks to be best for experienced pilots who want a lot of features, including Follow Me.

The GoPro Karma costs $800 without a GoPro or $1,100 with a GoPro Hero 5 Black. Either way it is still cheaper than the Phantom 4. However this does mean that the image quality will depend on which GoPro camera you attach to the drone.

GoPro looks to have done a decent job with its first drone, and the simple design makes it safe bet. However this simplicity carries over to its features, which may not impress experienced drone pilots.

For first-time users the Karma is a good option because it’s hassle-free and easy to transport. For those who are looking for more of a technical challenge, the DJI Phantom 4 may be the right choice. That is, of course, if you can afford to splash out on the more expensive drone in this comparison.

GoPro is selling its Karma drone at the company website, and DJI does the same for the Phantom 4. When buying a drone, your choice should depend on your priorities. If you already have a GoPro it makes sense to buy a Karma drone, but those without an action camera might prefer the DJI Phantom if their focus is on capturing drone footage.

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