2026 is almost over — well, not quite, but given we're already halfway through the year, it won't be long before those year-end awards are in sight again. And with the 2026 progress bar hitting 50% this week, we decided it was a good time to look back on the last six months and pick out the early 'gadget of the year' contenders from everything we've tested since January.

And we've been testing a lot — 639 products, to be precise, have passed through our labs and the real, unvarnished lives of our experienced testers this year. Those hundreds of gadgets span everything from coffee machines and smartphones to life-boosting accessories like portable DACs, fans and smart Lego.

So if you've just woken up from a six-month nap (we don't blame you) or are looking for some gadget inspiration, the list below will make for some fascinating reading. It doesn't contain every five-star product we've tested this year (check out our separate five-star review roundup for those), but it is a temperature check of all the products our reviewers haven't been able to stop talking about over the past six months...

21. Fitbit Air

• The fitness tracker of 2026 so far

The Google Fitbit Air is the highest-profile, most exciting fitness release of 2026 so far, and it’s generated plenty of buzz online. A screenless Whoop-style band weighing just 12 grams (including strap!) and with up to a week of battery life, the Fitbit Air is the most exciting thing we’ve seen from Fitbit since Google brought the brand.

The hardware is excellent, proving to record heart rate accurately in our comparison tests, and it’s eminently comfortable to wear. I had no problems wearing it virtually 24/7 during my testing period, including to shower and sleep in. It looked great, was super-light, felt comfortable and delivered accurate, insightful metrics.

The app is another story. While its AI-powered premium functionality is good, not everyone’s going to jive with the chatbot format of the AI Coach, and existing Fitbit users are irked that their community features and historic badges were deleted, replaced by an AI Coach to help you ‘celebrate your achievements’ in a different way. The app is uniformly recognized as being messy and cluttered, too. But away from the app’s design, the tracker is still the boldest, most interesting release in the fitness tech world this year.

Matt Evans, Senior Editor, Fitness, Wellness & Wearables

• Read our in-depth Fitbit Air review

20. Maxell Wireless Cassette Player

• Our favorite blast from the gadget past

Look me in the eye and tell me you have no cassette tapes hiding anywhere in your home. Right, there’s a shoebox somewhere. But where to play them? That’s where the Maxell Wireless Cassette Player comes in.

Not only is it brand new gear to play these old tapes, but it works with your favorite Bluetooth headphones; I found it the perfect blend of nostalgia and modern audio pleasure. Even its imperfect functionality, like flaky Bluetooth support, was somehow charming.

I wish it had recording like my old portable cassette player, but it was still kind of wonderful to get to hear old mixtapes, recordings, and even classic releases from 1980s music icons (The Traveling Wilburys!) again.

Lance Ulanoff, Editor at Large

• Read our in-depth Maxell Wireless Cassette Player review

19. MacBook Neo

• Still a winner, despite its recent price hike

Up until a month ago, the MacBook Neo was my favorite laptop of 2026, and I didn’t think there’d be any other new laptop this year that could beat it. With a launch price of $599 / £599 / AU$899, it was the cheapest MacBook you could get, and despite its budget price, it offered the kind of build quality, design, screen and performance that you just didn’t expect from laptops and Chromebooks around that price point.

It certainly made a big impact. Running on the A18 Pro chip, it could run pretty much any macOS app that more expensive Macs could, offered excellent battery life and a bright and vibrant display (something a lot of budget laptop makers often neglected to keep prices down). It sold like hot cakes, and gave a kick up the bum to rivals. Since its launch, both Acer and Dell have announced laptops (the new Acer Swift Air and Dell XPS 13) that the companies are very open about how they’ve been designed to take on the MacBook Neo.

However, last month Apple announced a raft of price increases for some of its products, including a $100 / £100 increase in price for the MacBook Neo. While not a massive increase (unlike what the MacBook Air and Pro got), it’s enough to make the MacBook Neo less of an instant recommendation, and some of its compromises, such as slow USB-C ports and no backlit keyboard, are suddenly harder to forgive.

Matt Hanson, Managing Editor, Core Tech

• Read our in-depth MacBook Neo review

18. Lego Smart Brick

• The opinion-splitter that won us over

The toy brand introduced a new technology-fueled piece in its iconic build block system this year at CES 2026 — and while some reactions have been mixed online we here at TechRadar have fallen in love with the system. If you’re a kid who loves playing with your sets and not just admiring them it hits the mark (almost) perfectly.

Out the gate it featured in a handful of Star Wars themed builds adding iconic starship noises, blaster fire effects, and flashing lights as the model moves and its play features are used. It does this thanks to motion and color sensors in the brick which perform different effects based on the special NFC tiles the smart brick is placed onto — the tile effectively programs the smart brick’s lights and speakers while they touch.

Admittedly it wasn’t perfect at launch, but Lego has already started to solve some of our issues with the builds and the brick’s interactiveness in its upcoming Pokémon Smart Play sets — helping to cement the smart brick as one of the best gadgets of the year, and we’re confident it’ll only get better.

Hamish Hector, Senior Staff Writer, News

• Read our hands-on Lego Smart Brick review

17. iFi Go Link 2

• A huge audio upgrade for your phone or laptop

Some hi-res products require careful tinkering and compatibility testing. This isn't one of those. Instead it's a no-fuss, super-small headphone DAC (which stands for digital-analog-converter) to effectively take the job away from the small and likely pretty basic DAC and amp stage in your smartphone or laptop, do the conversion job a lot better, and deliver the improved audio to your wired earbuds or headphones (and thus, to your shell-likes) of choice.

Did I mention it's also super-cheap? This thing costs just $59 / £59 and it essentially turns your source device's sound into something you'd get from hi-res player — and those can cost thousands.

It's smaller and lighter than the iFi options that came before it too. The Go Link 2 will happily slip into your pocket or bag along with your smartphone without issue, and if you're looking to get in on the wired trend (hey, lots of people are) it's a very good way to add wired headphone support to devices that have long since dropped the 3.5mm headphone jack.

OK, its amp stage won't be enough to drive high impedance planar magnetic cans (and those would probably come toting a 4.4mm jack anyway, which this doesn't have) but provided you're just looking to level up with closed-back dynamic solutions, this is little money, well-spent.

Becky Scarrott, Audio Editor

• Read our full iFi Go Link 2 review

16. RayNeo Air 4 Pro

• A lightweight personal cinema for travelers

Android XR and Meta might be stealing the smart glasses spotlight in 2026 with their announcements, but here at TechRadar we think the best new pair to launch so far this year is something a little different: the RayNeo Air 4 Pro.

The biggest difference between the RayNeo and those other specs is they don’t bother with AI — instead they’re effectively a portable display for your compatible phone, tablet, laptop, console, essentially anything that can output video and audio via USB-C.

The Air 4 Pro don't reinvent the wheel but add important new tools like being the first specs of their kind to support HDR10 — leading to more accurate and vibrant colors from their micro-OLED displays. Couple that with solid sound, a comfy fit, and optional Batman/Joker stylings for DC mega fans (plainer designs are available) and you have something incredible.

Hamish Hector, Senior Staff Writer, News

• Read our in-depth RayNeo Air 4 Pro review

15. MacBook Air M5

• The best ultraportable we've ever used

The MacBook Air is, in some ways, the portable most other laptops aspire to; it’s thin, light, surprisingly powerful, and has simply outstanding battery life.

At the time of review, Apple had doubled that storage space (far more important than you might think), finally upgraded connectivity to the future (Wi-Fi 7 and BLE 6) and, of course, slipped in the new M5 silicon.

The price rose a bit, and some wished for more colors (heck, maybe they'll think about Citrus for the next Air), but none of this really detracted from the MacBook Air’s sizable qualities, including a fantastic keyboard, huge ForceTouch trackpad, and Thunderbolt 4 ports. MacBook Air was the laptop that lured me away from Windows, and the M5 model is what’s keeping me here.

Lance Ulanoff, Editor at Large

• Read our in-depth Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M5) 

14. Oppo Find X9 Ultra

• The new camera phone king

If you're in any doubt about whether the Oppo Find X9 Ultra is the best camera phone on the market right now, just look at the devices we've compared it to. In our Oppo Find X9 Ultra vs Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra comparison, the Chinese flagship came out on top in almost every category, and in our Oppo Find X9 Ultra vs Lumix TZ300 vs Nikon Z8 comparison, we found that its telephoto capabilities "render most travel zoom compact cameras redundant." High praise indeed.

So, yes, the Find X9 Ultra — which is the first Ultra-branded Oppo phone to ship outside of China (albeit not in the US) — is the new camera phone king. But it comes with plenty of other flagship bells and whistles, too. There's the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset, the 12GB of RAM, the 6.8-inch OLED display, and the enormous 7,050mAh battery. And Oppo's software has also come on leaps and bounds in recent years.

If we're talking 'the best phones of 2026 so far', the Find X9 Ultra is a must-include.

Axel Metz, Phones Editor

• Read our in-depth Oppo Find X9 Ultra review

13. Audeze Maxwell 2

• The best-sounding gaming headset I've ever tested

The Audeze Maxwell 2 isn't the gaming headset that's received the highest score from our team of reviewers so far this year on TechRadar Gaming, but it's still one of the absolute best to release this year. And it gets that mantle on sound quality alone.

The 90mm planar magnetic drivers produce the finest gaming audio I've ever experienced, and I can't imagine using anything else now (unless I have to for pesky work reasons). Audeze's patented SLAM tech means the bottom end is even better than ever, and so the whole soundscape is much more rounded and fulsome, while being exceptionally detailed and immersive.

It's a chunky headset, yes, but it has all the modern features you realistically need to get the most out of a headset for single-player immersion and gaining edges in multiplayer games: a robust mic, reliable connectivity, good design and build, all supporting that brilliant audio quality.

After nearly a decade of testing and reviewing gaming headsets of all stripes, I have not been treated to audio this good. It's proven so good that I disagree with our own review (sorry, Phil) and have written about how, after a few months of living with the Maxwell 2, I think it's a five-star gaming headset. If you want to consider any new gaming headset of 2026 thus far to upgrade your audio game, then this has to be it.

(Rob Dwiar, Managing Editor, TechRadar Gaming and Streaming)

• Read our in-depth Audeze Maxwell 2 review and my op-ed on why I would have scored the Maxwell 2 higher

12. Dyson PencilVax FluffyCones

• The most streamlined vacuum we've ever used

It's been a long time since I saw a vacuum that truly made me do a double-take, but that was the case with the Dyson PencilVac Fluffycones. Instead of the chunky dust cup / battery / filter configuration usually found at the top of a stick vacuum, the PencilVac has... nothing. There's just a broom-shaped handle. In fact, this handle houses all those components, except they've been shrunk down to an almost impossibly small size, and hidden away. That makes the PencilVac incredibly light, nimble, and easy to wield.

The floorhead is equally unique, with its two pairs of cone-shaped, fluffy rollers, rotating in opposite directions to whisk away dust from hard floors and clear hair without tangling. This head pivots ultra-smoothly, can be used either way around, and enhances the incredible maneuverability on offer here. A truly innovative design from Dyson, and a useful one at that.

Ruth Hamilton, Collections Editor

• Read our full Dyson PencilVac Fluffycones review

11. Dali Sonik 1

• Small, passive stereo speakers that sound twice their size

It's not just because the Dali Sonik 1 are clearly the cat's miaow — although that never hurts!

The Dali Sonik 1 are the smallest in the Danish brand's ever-expanding new line of passive stereo speakers, but while this February 2026 proposition might be bijou, they sound easily twice their size. And for this money, that's a huge win.

We love them for their clear-mindedness, sparkling vocal reproduction, textured transients and remarkably deep, thumping robustness. They’re also low-distortion, with a sonic profile that never falls foul of overstating itself, apart from a very occasionally overzealous bass reflex (but that's largely down to placement).

You might be thinking you've seen this all before: small passive stereo speakers, they must all basically be the same, no? The Dali Sonik 1 are better than that — in fact we think they're currently the absolute best in their size and price category. It could well be the Sonik 1’s use of Dali’s trademarked Clarity Cone technology (taken from the Kore range before it), or the “SMC” (Soft Magnetic Composite)-assisted magnet systems that constitute the driver.

However it has been achieved, collectively this in-house wizardry has created a fulsome yet supremely natural-sounding set of standmount speakers. And they'll easily fit into your home (for a refreshingly palatable fee).

Becky Scarrott, Audio Editor

• Red our fully star-rated Dali Sonik 1 review

Our top 10 of 2026 (so far)

10. Apple AirPods Max 2

• The best noise-cancelling iPhone headphones on the planet

At first glance, Apple's March-issue second-generation flagship headphones probably didn't receive too many hugely excited whoops and cheers from the Cupertino giant's noted fanbase. Why? Because they arrived looking exactly the same as the first pair.

And they still come out on top in any mid-year headphones roundup. The ANC is just that good. We may sometimes be harsh at TechRadar, but we're always fair…

Put them on your head, engage the ANC and get them playing music. Suddenly it's impossible to knock them. There's a new H2 chip in each ear cup (plus a new amplification module) and that combination is a bona-fide game-changer.

OK, so you can use the Digital Crown as a remote and yes, you can now use Live Translation, nod or shake your head to control call-handling, or pipe up and the headphones now adjust playback accordingly. But none of these under-the-hood improvements is what seals the deal for me.

No, it's all about the sound, underpinned by the noise cancellation performance that is 1.5 times better — and anyone who owns the inaugural set will know how big a deal that is. Also, the overall sonic profile is punchier, more vibrant and with an extra ounce dynamic nuance across the frequencies.

The only reason I couldn't give them the full five stars? The stamina, at only 20 hours with ANC deployed. The thing is, when the cocoon of silence is this good, I'll take a hit on battery life.

Becky Scarrott, Audio Editor

• Read my full and in-depth Apple AirPods Max 2 review

9. Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

• The new king of Android

It can be hard to mess with near perfection, but that was the task facing Samsung when it built the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra. It’s a follow-up to the best Android flagship I'd ever used and, thankfully, the S26 Ultra did not disappoint.

The excellent, solid design (despite losing titanium) is a perfect showcase for Samsung’s vast OneUI 8 and all that AI. Plus it has a built-in S Pen that’s endlessly useful and new privacy screen feature that's so cool I wonder when Apple will copy it.

The just-short-of-perfection is mostly because it wasn't a full redesign some wished for and the frustrating lack of any kind of MagSafe charging capabilities. Those were, obviously, minor niggles in what is otherwise a powerful, big-screen handset that should be on everyone’s Android shortlist.

Lance Ulanoff, Editor at Large

• Read our in-depth Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra review

8. EcoFlow Stream Ultra X

• A game-changing home battery for renters

It's no surprise that in a year of spiraling energy costs one of the big trends has been home batteries that can cut chunks out of your electricity bills — and this powerful, balcony-friendly unit is the most complete we've tested so far.

The EcoFlow Stream Ultra X isn't cheap and, at the time of writing, isn't available in the US (although its lower-capacity Stream Ultra X sibling is). But with its 3.84 kWH capacity and AI-powered energy management, it is a glimpse of a smart home genre that will soon become mainstream.

In short, this lithium iron phosphate battery charges from the sun via solar panels or from cheap grid power during the day, then powers your home at night. In our tests, we estimated that it could easily pay for itself in three years — and that's without connecting it to solar panels.

On its own, the Stream Ultra X isn't powerful enough to power your whole home during a power cut — it's more like the first rung on a ladder that can take you to solar or a bigger home energy system. But you can connect five more Stream series units to hit 23 kWh of power, and its versatility makes it one of the best examples so far of what the Germans call 'Balkonkraftwerke' (or 'balcony power plants').

Mark Wilson, Managing Editor, News (UK)

• Read our in-depth EcoFlow Stream Ultra X review

7. Sony InZone H6 Air

• Sony’s first open-back gaming headset is the best

The year Sony debuted its first open-back gaming headset with the Inzone H6 Air, and it’s the best such model that we’ve tested, blowing strong competitors like the Turtle Beach Atlas Air out of the water.

Underpinned by the same studio quality drivers found in the audio giant’s ever-reliable MDR-MV1 studio monitor headphones, now reworked for additional bass, it delivers crystal-clear, well-balanced sound that’s perfect for both gaming and music listening.

That open-back design lends itself to a wonderfully wide soundstage that adds depth to your favorite games — the detailed weapon sound effects of Battlefield 6 have never seemed so real, while we found that more narrative driven titles like The Last of Us Part 2 or Assassin’s Creed Shadows benefit from a whole new level of aural immersion.

They’re incredibly light and comfortable, coming in at 7oz / 199g, but that doesn’t mean that they feel cheap. The premium aluminum earcup shells are hardwearing and we’re certain that the durable fabric headband will last us for many years to come.

Dashiell Wood, Gaming Editor

• Read our in-depth Sony InZone H6 Air review

6. DJI Avata 360

• Our new favorite all-seeing drone

The big new trend for drones in 2026 is 360 models. A bit like flying versions of cameras like the Insta360 X5, these all-seeing aerial gadgets let you reframe your aerial videos and photos after you've landed, so you don't need to be so precise or decisive up in the sky.

The DJI Avata 360 isn't the first 360 drone we've seen — that was the Antigravity A1 — but it is our new favorite thanks to its unrivaled versatility. Yes, you can shoot 360 videos thanks to its dual 1-inch sensors, then edit that footage using DJI Fly mobile app or the DJI Studio desktop software.

But switch to the drone's single-lens mode, and you effectively have a DJI Avata 2, an FPV drone that can perform aerial acrobatics and get some very different footage. Because you get to choose between using FPV goggles and a standard RC2 two-stick controller, you also don't always need to bring along a spotter friend to fly it legally either.

Mark Wilson, Managing Editor, News (UK)

• Read our in-depth DJI Avata 360 review

5. Dyson HushJet Mini Cool

• A surprisingly powerful heat wave savior

Heatwaves have been another big theme of 2026 — and if you've been baking under a 'heat dome' in the past few months, you might well be interested in the Dyson HushJet Mini Cool, a tiny fan whose performance is as good as its name.

Dyson’s first portable fan excels for two main reasons. Firstly, the fan’s powerful motor reaches a staggering 65,000rpm, and the shape of the HushJet nozzle concentrates the airflow so it’s all directed right at you. Even on the lowest setting you can really feel it, but dial it up to maximum and you’d think you’re using a hairdryer.

You also don’t just have to use it as a hand-held fan — you can wear it around your neck, attach it to clothing or a bag strap, or stand upright on your desk, so it’s pretty versatile to boot. But we know what you’re thinking; it's a Dyson, so isn’t it going to be ridiculously expensive? Fortunately not, so that's why we awarded it a rare five stars.

Rowan Davies, Editorial Associate

• Read our in-depth Dyson HushJet Mini Cool review

4. JBL Go 5

• The best tiny Bluetooth speaker, now even better

When I fired the JBL Go 5 up for the first time, it genuinely blew me away. See, its predecessor was already a very solid-sounding speaker given its minuscule size, and it had great build quality and features to match.

But JBL really outdid itself with this sequel. The Go 5 has even more open and expressive sound than what came before, with clean and agile bass, enhanced detail and clarity in the mid-range, as well as articulate and controlled treble. Pair that with new, customizable edge lighting, improved IP68 dust and waterproofing, and options like USB-C lossless audio, and the Go 5 is easily one of the best small speakers on the market.

It’s also drop-proof, comes in a range of funky colors, and has personalizable EQ, enabling you to find the perfect sound for any occasion. At less than $55 / £40, it’s also sensational value for money, and it couldn’t be more deserving of its five-star rating.

Harry Padoan, Senior Writer, Reviews

• Read our in-depth JBL Go 5 review

3. Philips Baristina

• Bean-to-cup that's great value and a doddle to use

As far as entry-level coffee makers go, the Philips Baristina is simple, stylish, and just as easy to use as any pod coffee machine. Basically, it’s the best affordable bean-to-cup espresso machine we’ve tested.

Like a manual espresso machine, the Baristina uses a portafilter handle. All you need to do is push the empty handle into place, select your drink, and the Baristina will grind the right dose of coffee into the filter basket, so you don’t even need to weigh the coffee beans before brewing.

Using a simple set of three buttons — one for single espresso, one for a lungo, and one to boost the intensity by increasing the dose of ground coffee — it’s incredible value for money. While it doesn’t come with a steaming wand for milk and is very much espresso-first, the Baristina remains an excellent beginner-friendly espresso machine that's perfect if you're new to fresh beans.

Rowan Davies, Editorial Associate

• Read our in-depth Philips Baristina review

2. Sony A7R VI

• Sony just perfected mirrorless cameras

I've tested just about every major camera release spanning the last 15 years, and I don’t use the word 'perfect' lightly — but that's what the Sony A7R VI is. For me, it’s the winning combination of raw quality and speed — thanks to a stacked 66.8MP full-frame sensor with ludicrous dynamic range, lightning-fast burst-shooting and reliable autofocus performance. I really pushed the A7R VI, shooting everything from landscape photography to wildlife and portraits, and it didn’t skip a beat.

The A7R VI is also a seriously well-designed professional mirrorless camera, with an immersive high-resolution EVF and multi-angle touchscreen, plus it packs an all-new higher-capacity battery that bags more shots. Sure it costs a lot, but considering it’s capable of 95% of what the A1 II can do, with more resolution, for a much lower price, I think it’s decent value.

I've never owned a Sony Alpha mirrorless camera, but the A7R VI has me seriously tempted, especially since Sony has made my favorite lenses over the last 18 months. If I could keep a hold of a single new camera from 2026, the A7R VI would be it, and that’s why it’s my top pick.

Timothy Coleman, Cameras Editor

• Read our in-depth Sony A7R VI review

1. LG C6

• The OLED TV that somehow improves on its near-perfect predecessor

The LG C6 is the best TV I’ve tested this year so far. Impressively, it makes huge improvements over its predecessor, the LG C5. Thanks to its new, flagship-level processor, the C6 delivers brilliant, vibrant colors, powerful contrast and crisp detail, delivering better picture quality over the C5: which is no mean feat. When I tested the C6 next to the C5, the C6 proved to be more accurate too, eliminating a green tint that was noticeable on the C5.

The C6 is a gaming powerhouse, continuing the LG C-series’ legacy as one of the very best gaming TVs on the market. With four HDMI 2.1 ports, 4K 165Hz, full VRR including FreeSync and G-Sync, Dolby Vision and ALLM all supported, plus an ultra-low, measured 9.2ms input lag time, gaming is fantastic on the C6.

The C6 covers all the bases, offering solid built-in sound, an intuitive smart TV system that gets better each year and it’s generally the most competitively priced OLED as well. The C6 will take some beating in 2026.

James Davidson, TV Hardware Staff Writer

• Read our in-depth LG C6 review

If you're a creator making outdoor and travel content, I've spotted an awesome deal on the DJI Osmo 360 Adventure Combo, now $455 (was $700) at Best Buy.

With a massive $245 saving, it's an ideal kit for vloggers and influencers creating outdoor action and travel content. The a 360-degree camera captures everything around you in a single recording, giving you the freedom to choose the perfect angle later instead of worrying about where the camera was pointing while you were filming.

Earning a best-in-class award in our review, we praised the premium performance at an affordable price and undeniably classy design, calling it "it’s extremely compelling, particularly for content creators who already own a DJI Mic 2 or Mic Mini."

Today's top DJI camera deal

The Osmo 360 records video in up to 5K resolution, giving you plenty of detail for editing and sharing.

Combined with its 30.7MP CMOS sensor, it has the resolution needed to produce crisp footage and high-quality still images across a wide range of shooting situations.

Storage is handled through a microSD card, making it easy to swap cards between shoots or carry extra capacity for longer adventures.

Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth also simplify transferring footage and connecting the camera to compatible devices.

DJI has built a strong reputation for imaging products that are easy to use while delivering impressive results, and this camera continues that approach. Its compact design also makes it easy to slip into a backpack or camera bag without taking up much space.

The Adventure Combo is a better buy than the standard camera on its own. Alongside the Osmo 360, you get an extra Osmo Action Extreme Battery Plus, the Osmo Action Multifunctional Battery Case 2, a protective carrying pouch, and a lens cleaning cloth, making it easier to shoot for longer and travel with confidence.

If you're looking for a versatile 5K action camera that captures every angle while remaining compact enough to take almost anywhere, this Best Buy deal offers excellent value for money.

Also consider: More creator camera deals

• Shop all action cameras at Best Buy

The ultra-popular DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is the camera of choice for content creators for a reason. In testing out this on-the-go cam, we found it “delivers amazing video quality and beautiful slow-motion scenes” — and awarded it a Recommended badge.

If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to pick one up, the DJI OSmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo is $512 (was $639) at Best Buy as part of the 4th of July sale.

That’s a $117 saving on the bundle that includes the mini tripod, wide-angle lens add-on, carrying case, and ND filter set alongside the camera itself — everything you’d need to start shooting without buying accessories separately.

Today's top DJI Osmo Pocket 3 deal

For anyone who creates video content — whether for social media, travel, events, or professional work — the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Creator Combo is one of the best compact cameras available right now.

The Pocket 3 was the upgrade the Pocket line needed. DJI fitted it with a new 1-inch CMOS sensor — the biggest change from the previous generation — and in our review, the improvement in low-light performance was immediately obvious.

That 1-inch sensor is what sets the Pocket 3 apart in the broader action camera market. GoPro and Insta360 alternatives at this price use smaller sensors that struggle in anything other than ideal lighting. The Pocket 3’s 1-inch CMOS captures noticeably more detail and light in indoor environments, evening shoots, and overcast outdoor conditions — the situations where most content creators actually end up filming, rather than in bright daylight, where every camera looks good.

The 4K 120 fps capability is another spec that earns its place in real-world use. At 120 fps, you can slow footage down to 25% speed in a 30fps timeline without it looking choppy — the kind of cinematic slow motion that previously required much more expensive cinema cameras.

For travel content, sports coverage, or anything with movement, it opens up editing options that just aren’t available on competitors that run 4K at 60 fps maximum.

Portrait mode at up to 3K resolution is genuinely useful for social media creators. Instead of cropping a landscape video into a vertical frame and losing half the image, the Pocket 3 captures natively in portrait orientation — the output is optimized for Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts without any post-processing workaround.

In our review, we flagged two honest caveats to keep in mind before you buy. The touchscreen, while improved over the previous generation at 2 inches, is still “not the most enjoyable when navigating around settings and menus” given the limited real estate. And, like most compact cameras with high-powered sensors in a small chassis, it can get warm during extended filming sessions. Neither is a deal-breaker, but both are worth factoring in if you’re planning long continuous shoots.

The Creator Combo’s value is straightforward: the ND filter set alone typically costs $40–50 when purchased separately, the wide-angle lens add-on adds another $40–60, and the carrying case and mini tripod add further value. Getting all of it bundled at $512 — $117 off the combined retail value — is the right way to buy the Pocket 3 if you want a complete shooting kit rather than just the camera body.

Also consider

• Shop all action cam deals at Best Buy.

DJI officially revealed the Osmo Pocket 4P yesterday — and the dual-lens, gimbal-stabilized vlogging camera looks formidable, thanks to its 1-inch main sensor, 3x telephoto secondary lens, 17 stops of dynamic range and 10-bit log color.

Unfortunately, it's also — for the foreseeable future — not going to be officially available in the US, thanks to DJI's ongoing FCC ban. And that's where the new Xtra Muse 2 Pro comes in.

With impeccable timing, this remarkably similar gimbal camera from US-registered brand Xtra has just had a fresh teaser reel arrive on Instagram, and the spec sheet (shared over at The New Camera) will look strangely familiar to anyone who's been following the Osmo Pocket 4P with interest.

A 1-inch CMOS sensor? Check. A second 3x telephoto lens? Check. A 10-bit X-Log 3 color profile, 17 stops of dynamic range and 103GB of built-in storage? Check, check and check.

We've seen this kind of thing before, both from Xtra Technology and SkyRover, two companies that sell products that bear remarkable similarities to DJI cameras and drones, but — unlike those actual DJI products — are freely available to buy in the USA.

As you can see from the embedded teaser above, the Xtra's Muse 2 Pro footage showcases a range of scenarios, including night and low-light performance. There's smooth gimbal movement, with clean detail and well-controlled noise.

It's a smart choice of showcase, particularly when it comes to the low-light scenes: after dark is where small sensors get exposed (so to speak), and the results look very impressive.

What else we know — and what we're waiting on

Beyond the specs from the teaser, the Muse 2 Pro is expected to feature a 3-axis mechanical gimbal, a rotatable touchscreen and ActiveTrack 7.0.

The original Xtra Muse (a dead ringer from the DJI Osmo Pocket 3) has gained Bluetooth support for DJI's Mic Mini and Mic 2 via a firmware update earlier this year — a useful sweetener for anyone already invested in DJI's microphone lineup. So we can expect similar microphone compatibility from the Muse 2 Pro.

If the Muse 2 Pro's real-world image quality can back up those spec sheet numbers, it's going to slot into a very interesting position in the US market. The Insta360 Luna Ultra has just launched there as a dual-lens rival, starting at $769.99 — and having tried it we can attest to it being a serious camera. But competition is good, and with DJI's appeal of its FCC ban still working its way through the courts, US creators are going to need options.

The Muse 2 Pro is shaping up to be a very well-timed one, and it seems likely that Xtra will be pushing for it to arrive this summer, perhaps as early as mid-July.

• DJI's Pocket 4P has been revealed in full on the China page of DJI's website
• It shares the core features of the Pocket 4, but adds a 3x telephoto camera
• There's no official word on global availability or pricing yet

We knew it was coming after a soft reveal at Cannes Film Festival last month, but now DJI has fully revealed its first dual-lens compact vlogging camera, the Osmo Pocket 4P.

You'll have to dig for the details, mind you — the Pocket 4P has only been announced in China, and for now, the full specs and features can only be found on the China page of the DJI site. You'll need to select the China region (中国大陆) to learn about the camera's core features, or you can stick with me here for the highlights and how it compares to the Osmo Pocket 4 and the Insta360 Luna Ultra dual-lens rival.

There's no official word yet on global pricing and availability, but based on recent DJI launches, I would expect a two-week wait before there's wider availability. Let's see how the Pocket 4P compares to the Pocket 4 and Insta360 Luna Ultra. For now, DJI's confirmed a starting price of CNY 3,799 for the Pocket 4P, which is about $562 / £420.

1. Lenses

The Pocket 4P's core design is the same as the Pocket 4, but with one major difference: the lenses. Where the Pocket 4 has a single ultra-wide 20mm f/2.0 lens, the Pocket 4P adds a second 3x telephoto lens.

The 3x lens is a 60mm f/1.8 optic, and it records onto a separate 1/1.28-inch sensor to the ultra-wide's refined 1-inch sensor. This is truly a dual-camera device with two distinct perspectives, and it's a design approach we've seen in the recent Insta360 Luna Ultra, which I'm still testing in depth as I write this article.

At first glance, the Pocket 4P and Luna Ultra's lenses are designed differently; the Pocket 4P's twin-lens array is vertically arranged, the Luna Ultra's is horizontal. I'm not sure of the reasoning for that, or what practical advantages each array has over the other.

Both Pocket 4P and Luna Ultra offer a 'lossless' 6x zoom from their telephoto cameras, plus a 12x digital zoom. I'll compare the DJI Osmo Pocket 4P and Insta360 Luna Ultra in real-world tests soon, but the specs look pretty similar:

2. Dynamic range and color

Almost all of the Osmo Pocket 4 and Pocket 4P specs are identical, but there is one area where DJI is pushing the pricier dual-lens model: dynamic range and color profiles.

The Pocket 4's dynamic range is rated up to 14 stops, whereas the Pocket 4P is billed as having a ludicrous-sounding 17 stops, which would beat the performance of high-end professional cameras. I don't have details on how the dynamic range is achieved or whether you need a specific mode to get it, but we'll find out soon enough.

One way could be DJI's new D-Log 2 color profile, which it says is an upgrade from the D-Log profile used in the Pocket 4.

And as for the Luna Ultra, it supposedly has a 14-stop dynamic range and an I-Log color profile. I-Log is Insta360's first Log profile, whereas DJI has iterated log profiles over multiple versions.

As far as which camera delivers the best-looking footage, we'll have to wait and see, but the shots on the Pocket 4P product page look stunning!

3. Design

You can think of the Pocket 4P as a Pocket 4 but with an extra camera, because otherwise the design of the two cameras is pretty much the same; they both feature a compact design, a rotating 2-inch touchscreen, which reveals two additional buttons when positioned horizontally.

They both utilize a 3-axis gimbal camera unit, which features a magnetic arm and contact points to which a neat LED light snaps onto, and is powered by the camera. I like the new slimline gimbal protector in the Pocket 4 models — it's much more compact than the hard shell case that came with the Pocket 3.

Of course, there are more design differences between the Pocket 4P and the Luna Ultra. The Pocket 4P is the slimmer and the slicker of the two, and it has additional buttons and that gimbal feature.

The Luna Ultra comes in a larger hard shell case and is overall clunkier, but it has a clever and well-implemented detachable control with 20m transmission range, which has gained much praise and is being touted as a reason to choose Insta360 over DJI. The control features the rotating 2-inch OLED touchscreen, key camera controls and a built-in mic.

I'll be returning soon with my in-depth Luna Ultra review and, no doubt, comparisons with the Pocket 4P once I've got the two cameras side by side.

Having already used the Luna Ultra for about a month, I can safely say that I'd struggle to return to a single-lens vlogging camera like the Pocket 4; these dual-lens models are so much more versatile, so stay tuned for more.

4. Pricing

• Pocket 4P Standard kit costs CNY 3,799 (about $562 / £420)
• Pocket 4P Vlog kit costs CNY 4,299 (about $636 / £475)

If those price conversions are remotely accurate to the actual price, then the Pocket 4P will be much cheaper than the Insta360 Luna Ultra. I think the actual price will be higher.

But of course, DJI is banned in the US, and so the Pocket 4P won't be available there for the foreseeable future, and so those US prices are a moot point.

The luna Ultra costs; $769.99 / £649 / AU$1,229.99 for the Standard Kit, while a Creator Bundle costs $969.99 / £829 / AU$1,549.99. The Pocket 4 starts at £429 / AU$749 or £549 / AU$959 for the Creator Combo.

• Insta360 launched the Luna Ultra 8K vlogging camera on June 10
• DJI filed a lawsuit on the same day, claiming Luna had copied its DJI Pocket 3, only for Insta360 to file countersuits two days later
• Because of the ongoing DJI ban in the US, Insta360 could enjoy unrivaled availability there

No sooner has Insta360 unveiled its first vlogging cameras, the Luna Ultra and (upcoming) Luna Pro — which look set to enjoy unrivaled access to the US market because of the DJI ban — than DJI has filed an Insta360 lawsuit in the US, claiming they "blatantly copy" its Pocket 3.

For years, DJI has enjoyed near total dominance in the compact vlogging camera market with its hugely popular Osmo Pocket series, but now it faces two very real challenges: access to the US market, and the first serious-rival product.

DJI's latest and best vlogging camera, the Pocket 4, was launched in April this year, but the polished Pocket 3 successor is yet to make it to the US, given that DJI is on the FCC's 'Covered list', which currently affects any DJI products with a camera, not just its drones. So it's unlikely to hit US stores any time soon.

Meanwhile, Insta360 Luna cameras have made quite the impression. Despite being a first-generation product, the Luna Ultra is polished, and features a neat modular design that DJI Pocket cameras lack — check out my first impressions of the Luna Ultra, which I've been testing at length.

Now DJI is going straight for the jugular with its lawsuit, demanding that Luna cameras are banned. I've tested both cameras, and the user experience is very similar, but the crux of the situation is whether or not Luna cameras actually violate design and utility patents, as DJI claims in its lawsuit.

Insta360 has now filed two countersuits against DJI, related to "patents covering technology used in gimbal and 360-degree cameras". In a statement provided to TechRadar, Insta360 also defended its Luna cameras, saying "Luna Ultra is the result of years of independent R&D, not a response to any competitor's product."

The DJI / Insta360 rivalry just went up a notch

I spoke with Insta360 co-founder Max Richter at a pre-launch Luna event, and he told me the company was "not going to compete on price", but on premium and exclusive features. Specifically he was referring to the Luna's innovative removable remote, which features a 2-inch OLED screen, camera controls and built-in mic. Right now in the US, however, Insta360 doesn't need to rival DJI at all, because it has a clear field in that market.

But Insta360 faces a potential headache in the form of DJI's lawsuit. Petapixel reports that DJI has filed two patent lawsuits against Arashi Vision Inc. — which does business as Insta360 — covering two alleged violations of design patents and four utility patents.

The lawsuit claims that Luna cameras closely copy the design and features of the Osmo Pocket 3, claiming that “Insta360’s new Luna line of gimbal cameras, including but not limited to the Luna Ultra, supporting accessories, and the Insta360 mobile application (collectively, the “Accused Products”) blatantly copy DJI’s patented inventions wholesale.”

The suit adds: "From its silhouette to its feature set, the Accused Products mirror what DJI has spent the better part of a decade engineering and patenting for its innovative handheld gimbal camera systems.

"The visual similarity between the Accused Products and the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 design is striking. [As shown below,] the Accused Products share the same general proportions, the same gimbal-on-handle architecture, and the same component arrangement as DJI’s Osmo Pocket 3."

As for the four utility patents, DJI says that Insta360 Luna cameras and accessories "copy key features that make the DJI Osmo Pocket unique in the marketplace including DJI’s innovative subject-tracking technology, seamless gimbal-mode switching allowing the camera’s shooting direction to follow user movement of the handle, and a 'locked' mode to maintain a fixed shooting direction regardless of how the handle is moved."

DJI was clearly ready with this lawsuit, given that it was filed on the day the Insta360 Luna Ultra became officially available for purchase in leading US stores, including B&H Photo.

Many US-based vloggers will likely be watching the case with interest — they're already missing out on the excellent DJI Pocket 4, and they must be hoping that they won't also be denied the chance to buy Insta360's Luna cameras.

Now the rivalry has been raised another notch, with Insta360 filing its countersuit.

Insta360's response

In a statement provided to TechRadar, Insta360 founder and CEO JK Liu struck a defiant tone in his response to the DJI lawsuit and Insta360's countersuit, saying about the Luna cameras:

"Development began in 2020, with earlier Insta360 products including the ONE R, Link Series webcams, and Flow Series gimbals helping shape the technology and design direction behind Luna Ultra. DJI filing lawsuits on the same day we launched Luna Ultra speaks volumes — exposing their fear of competition from a highly competitive product."

Regarding the countersuit, the statements reads:

The company asserts that DJI infringed its patents relating to gimbal stabilization, gimbal directional control, camera smooth stabilization, telemetry overlay, and panoramic video stabilization. These technologies are incorporated into several major DJI products, including the Osmo Pocket series, Ronin/RS series, Osmo Mobile series, and Osmo 360.

Liu said, "We are fully committed to protecting our innovations and will take decisive action to defend our intellectual property from infringement."

• Insta360's Luna Ultra is a modular 8K compact vlogging camera
• It rivals the upcoming dual-lens DJI Pocket 4P
• The single-lens Luna Pro is yet to be fully unveiled

We now have the full picture of Insta360's first compact vlogging camera and DJI Pocket rival, after the Luna Ultra hit online stores yesterday (June 10), with prices starting at $769.99 / £649 / AU$1,229.99.

I've already shared my first impressions of the dual-lens 8K video camera, but Insta360 limited what could be shared ahead of its launch. Now all can be revealed — but you'll have to forgive the timing and nature of my coverage, because Insta360 hastily brought forward the launch from the previously-set embargo that I was working to.

I can now reveal that the Insta360 Luna Ultra packs two cameras which are stabilized by a 3-axis gimbal. The 1x main f/1.8 camera shoots 8K 30p video with Dolby Vision (HDR) and 4K 120fps slow motion, and features a 1-inch sensor (Insta360's largest yet, matching DJI) with 14 stops of dynamic range. (DJI has separately teased 17 stops dynamic for its upcoming Pocket 4P.)

The 3x telephoto f/2.0 camera works with a smaller but still decent-sized 1/1.3-inch sensor, and offers a 6x lossless zoom and up to a 12x digital zoom. I've tried both cameras extensively, and the telephoto camera is able to throw depth of field nicely for upper-body vlogging.

The Ultra is equipped with I-Log color profile — a feature pros demand for color grading flexibility, and another complete first for Insta360, plus Insta360's triple processing chips and latest AI subject tracking, which works pretty darn well.

I'll share more about the Luna Ultra's features in my upcoming in-depth review, but until then, let's look at how it handles compared to the Pocket 4.

Clearing up the Luna / Pocket 4 confusion

Insta360 is going hard with its first vlogging cameras, the single-lens Luna Pro and dual-lens Luna Ultra. The latter is available now, while the Pro's launch date is yet to be confirmed. Insta360 changed the Luna Ultra launch date several times due to a "rapidly changing competitive landscape," and it was eventually brought forward to a week earlier than the date I was working to. I've been testing the product for several weeks, and will publish my in-depth review as soon as I can.

DJI's latest single-lens vlogging camera was launched last month — check out my in-depth Pocket 4 review. It's no secret that the Pocket 4P is coming soon — DJI teased the dual-lens vlogging camera at Cannes Film Festival recently.

So, both brands will have single-lens and dual-lens vlogging cameras in their product lineups soon. But what we have right now is DJI's single-lens Pocket 4 and Insta 360's dual-lens Ultra, which makes direct comparisons tricky — it's like pitting a featherweight against a heavyweight in terms of versatility.

That being said, we know enough about the specs of all four cameras, and I've had enough time to get a feel for the design of the Luna Ultra and Pocket 4, to make some early impressions.

Luna Ultra versus Pocket 4

This isn't a fair comparison — the Luna Ultra is a pricier model with dual-lens versatility that will rival the upcoming Pocket 4P. But it's Insta360's first foray into a vlogging camera market, which has been dominated by the DJI Pocket series for several years. In that respect, the Luna Ultra feels surprisingly polished.

The Pocket 4 is the smaller of the two, and the Pocket 4P will be smaller than the Luna cameras too. It's not a big difference in size, and the extra bulk of the Luna Ultra hardly effects its handling, plus it's to facilitate a unique, game-changing feature — a detachable 2-inch OLED screen.

The screen is part of a module which also includes the camera's main controls. It has up to a 20m transmission range, and can be used to view and control the camera, and of course to initiate recording.

Given that the Luna Ultra features advanced subject tracking, you effectively have an autonomous camera that can track you while you move, within the limits of the gimbal's range. The module also features a built-in microphone, which is super handy too for vlogging, even if you still might want a wireless mic like Insta360's 5 star-rated Mic Pro for the best quality audio.

This modular functionality is a bit like the Insta360 Go 3S and its Action Dock / DJI Nano action cams, and clearly an advantage over the Pocket 4. The Pocket 4 has its own tricks mind you, such as its magnetic LED light which directly attaches to and is powered by the camera.

Both cameras are compatible with useful accessories, such as wireless mics. Yes, DJI has had skin in the game for longer, and boasts a solid ecosystem, but Insta360 is hardly lacking either.

As for the single-lens and dual-lens varieties, the latter are indeed like having two cameras, and will set the benchmark for compact vlogging camera quality, potentially persuading new users over using their smartphones. They're much pricier than the single-lens varieties, though — as we now we know, having seen how much the Luna Ultra costs.

How do the two cameras sounds to you? Is the dual-lens version overkill, or what the format needed? Let me know in the comments below, and make sure you vote in the poll above — and check back in for my in-depth coverage, coming soon.

If you're a professional content creator or vlogger, you won't want to miss this DJI deal. Right now the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 Creator Combo is $789 (was $899) at Newegg.

This all-in-one creator kit bundles together the excellent DJI Osmo Pocket 4, DJI Mic 3, and plenty of accessories, including a gimbal and tripod. I've taken a look and I can't find this bundle cheaper anywhere else, with Walmart pricing the Creator Combo at $899, and Amazon selling the Standard Combo kit for $999, which includes an SD card but no microphone.

Our expert cameras editor Tim recently tested the Osmo Pocket 4 out in the field, and found, "professional vloggers familiar with the previous model will appreciate a raft of subtle improvements that make the latest version a much more polished 4K camera."

Today's best DJI Osmo Pocket 4 bundle deal

This latest model is an upgrade on the wildly popular Pocket 3, which has become the content creator's vlogging camera of choice since its release.

In Tim's comprehensive review (read it here), he said, "Bang for buck, the Pocket 4 is excellent value, and has no real rival," and found "no other vlogging camera this small produces such crisp, stabilized 4K video, complete with reliable subject tracking."

All the features he loved about the 4K Pocket 3 are still here, from the compact design to the video stabilization performance. But the newer model also adds fresh enhancements that, while not dramatic, will be appreciated by professional creators.

It's worth quoting Tim in full, to give you a better idea what's going on here:

"Top upgrades include better slow-motion recording, now up to 240fps in 4K, better-quality 4K video with 10-bit color depth and wider dynamic range now up to 14 stops, slicker subject tracking which is available in more modes, better battery life, 107GB of internal memory, and refined controls, such as a new magnetic gimbal arm which accepts accessories such as a fill light."

Not everyone is going to need to upgrade, of course - the feature-set isn't massively different to the Pocket 3, even if the improvements are welcome. To help you make sense of the two models, Tim's helpfully outlined the differences between the DJI Pocket 4 vs. DJI Pocket 3.

Still, the Pocket 4 Creator Combo deal is worth checking out if you're looking for the latest and greatest 4K vlogging camera from DJI.

In the box, you get:

• DJI Osmo Pocket 4
• DJI Mic 3 transmitter
• Mic 3 cable, clip, magnet, and windscreens
• Fill light
• Mini tripod
• Camera handle
• Wide-angle lens
• Gimbal clamp
• Pouch and carry case
• USB-C to USB-C cable

More DJI Osmo Pocket deals

• See all action cams at Newegg

It sucks to be a DJI fan in the US, what with the Chinese camera manufacturer's ban. There are currently no new DJI products hitting US soil at launch, including the recent DJI Osmo Pocket 4, which I rate as the best compact vlogging camera.

I have some good news, however, and that's a record-low price for its predecessor, the Osmo Pocket 3, which is a DJI product you actually can buy, now for just $419 at Adorama (was $499) during Memorial Day — the same deal is available at Amazon.

The Pocket 3 Creator Combo is also on sale for just $539 (was $629) at Adorama and Amazon, which also includes a wide-angle lens, DJI Mic 2, battery handle, mini tripod and carry case — both are stand out deals in the Memorial Day sales.

Yes, the Pocket 4 is a polished successor, but I described it as a modest upgrade where headline specs are concerned, so you might not be missing out on much by opting for the older and readily available Pocket 3 instead.

And just to give you an idea on how good the current Pocket 3 pricing is — one year ago it was hiked from $519 to $799 as uncertainty around DJI product availability grew. At the turn of the year, however, pricing returned and since then it has steadily dropped, now to a new record-low.

• View Amazon's full Memorial Day sale

Today's best DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Memorial Day deals

Should you still buy the Pocket 3 in 2026?

We don't know if the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 will be directly available in the US, nor the recently teased dual-lens Osmo Pocket 4P. The latter 'pro' model adds a 3x telephoto camera to the mix, a formula which is also found in the new Insta360 Luna Ultra, which I am testing ahead of its full unveil.

We don't know too much about the Pocket 4P and Luna cameras but they will cost much more than the Pocket 3.

I've shared my full review of the Pocket 4, and it is indeed a polished upgrade. For many users, however, the improvements such as built-in memory, better battery life, fill light accessory and 4K 240fps slow motion recording won't be worth the upgrade / spending more for. I've unpacked 7 noteworthy upgrades in my Pocket 4 vs Pocket 3 article.

So should you still consider the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 today? Absolutely! Besides it being your only DJI option that's currently available, the tiny vlogging camera still packs a 1-inch sensor and shoots crisp 4K video with 3-axis gimbal stabilization, and is supported with a swivel monitor for vertical or horizontal shooting and single push selfies.

Yes, it might be over two years old, but the Osmo Pocket 3 remains a top compact vlogging camera, available for much less than the Pocket 4 and almost certainly upcoming dual-lens models.

You'll get 4K video up to 60fps and up to 120fps slow motion, seamless connectivity with one of DJI's wireless mics for pro audio (remember the Mic 2 is included in the Creator Combo), that neat swivel touch monitor which cleverly switches between horizontal and vertical recording, plus a gimbal-mounted camera that switches from front to selfie recording at the push of a button.

So while the Pocket 3 has lost its top position to the Pocket 4 in my best vlogging cameras guide, I can still heartily recommend it in this Memorial Day deal.

More of today's best Memorial Day sales

• Amazon: 45% off TVs, AirPods, air fryers & vacuums
• Apple: iPads, AirPods & MacBooks from $99
• Best Buy: 60% off appliances, TVs, laptops & more
• Casper: up to 30% off mattresses
• Dell: laptop deals from $249.99
• DreamCloud: up to 60% off mattresses, 66% off bundles
• Home Depot: 40% off appliances, furniture, grills & tools
• Lowe's: $1,000 off appliances, patio & tools
• Nectar: up to 50% off mattresses, deals from $369
• Saatva: up to $550 off luxury mattresses
• Samsung: up to $1,600 off appliances
• Target: 30% off clothing, patio & furniture
• Walmart: furniture, cheap TVs & vacs from $69
• Wayfair: 50% off furniture, grills, rugs & more

If you're buying your first drone, you'll want a beginner-friendly model that includes everything you need to get flying straight away. One drone that ticks all those boxes is this DJI Mini 4K at Amazon for £189 (was £242). That discount drops the four-and-a-half-star-rated drone back to its lowest price ever.

This particular bundle includes the drone, an RC-N1C controller, and one battery. That means you'll be up and flying in no time at all, capturing breathtaking 4K video.

One of the best things about the DJI Mini 4K is how portable it is. At less than 249g, you can throw it into a camera bag or rucksack and take it anywhere you want. The fact that it's now discounted by so much only sweetens the deal more.

Today's best DJI drone deal

Take a read of our in-depth DJI Mini 4K review, where our cameras editor, Timothy Coleman, took the popular drone out for a test spin. It didn't take long for him to be impressed by the high-resolution 4K video, the set of features that are perfect for beginners, and its excellent value. And don't forget, that was at full price.

Beyond this, the drone offers level 5 wind resistance, dynamic movement presets, and a battery that will last for a maximum of 31 minutes. This will be enough for most flights, but if that's going to be an issue, then we recommend investing in additional batteries.

To give you a complete picture, the Mini 4K lacks object-collision sensors and subject tracking, which will make it difficult to fly through tight spaces. If you require this feature, then the DJI Mini 4 Pro would be a viable alternative. But this Mini 4K has all the essential features you would need for your first drone at a much more reasonable price.

The Mini 4K is ideal for beginners, but if you're looking for something more advanced, then our guide to the best drones is a great place to start. And if you're set on DJI, then we have a dedicated best DJI drones buying guide just for you.

• We're getting closer to the launch of the DJI Osmo Pocket 4P
• Official images of the camera have been posted by DJI
• A lot of the key details about the device are still to be confirmed

Following the launch of the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 vlogging camera last month, we're getting closer and closer to the full unveiling of its premium sibling — and DJI has given us our best look yet at the Osmo Pocket 4P on social media.

Posts to X and Instagram reveal the design of the device in full, more or less. We can see the dual-lens camera setup, which is one of the key differences from the standard model, and there are hints towards 3x zoom and a 1-inch sensor.

The camera was shown off at an "exclusive preview" at the Cannes Film Festival yesterday, but we're still waiting on a lot of details. Some festival attendees have been showing off the camera, without revealing any specs or showing any footage captured by the device.

What we can say is that this is going to be a step up from the standard Pocket 4 in terms of video quality and price, and its tease at Cannes is a sign that DJI wants to promote this as a serious bit of equipment for movie-makers.

The waiting game

There is now an official press release, but again it's light on specific specs. We do hear the camera is capable of "professional-grade storytelling" and offers 10-bit D-Log2 color performance, which industry creatives will appreciate.

The press release also talks about better portrait, zoom, and low-light performance, so it sounds as though DJI has put everything it can into the DJI Osmo Pocket 4P. However, pricing and configurations "will be announced at a later date", DJI says.

This long build-up of hype hasn't sat well with some commenters on Reddit, who have dismissed the Cannes tease as "pure marketing fluff" with "zero real details". We'll have to wait and see if the camera ends up being worth the extended wait.

Meanwhile, Insta360 is busy getting ready to launch the Insta360 Luna Ultra, with its own dual-lens camera setup, 8K video recording, and a detachable, remote control dashboard, according to the latest leaks.

Light and compact drones don't get much better than the DJI Mini 3, which has recently had its price slashed at Amazon down to $499 (was $719). I'll do the math for you: that's a huge $220 off the retail price.

This is actually for the combo package, so you get even more for your money. The bundle includes a DJI Remote Controller for advanced flying maneuvers and three batteries for 114 minutes of flight time. You'll look like the consummate professional even though you've paid no more than $500 for the privilege.

We're also big fans of the true vertical shooting for social media optimized shots. That means no more faffing around with crops in post. The Mini 3 will handle everything for you in-camera. This really is a fantastic drone package for any hobbyist or beginner professional – now back to its record-low price.

Today's best DJI drone deal

In our DJI Mini 3 review, we rated this drone four out of five stars and praised its affordability, great image quality, and small form factor. In terms of image output, the Mini 3 can capture 12 MP photos (RAW and JPEG) and 4K video at 30fps. That's enough resolution to cover most purposes, especially considering the more budget nature of this drone.

It's a great all-rounder that does all the basics well. It's not as fully featured as some drones, though, as evidenced by the lack of collision avoidance. But if you plan on flying in open spaces most of the time, you won't miss it at all, especially if you take advantage of QuickShot's automated flight patterns.

Check out our extensive guide to the best DJI drones if your heart is set on this popular brand. If, on the other hand, you're open to other options, then our best drones guide is worth checking out instead.

• The FCC has extended its waiver on software updates for DJI drones
• The latest extension ends on January 1, 2029
• You can also have your say on the DJI ban

The US Federal Communications Commission’s ban on new DJI drones and its other technology has been a frustrating one for camera enthusiasts and professionals alike — as they’re set to miss out on 25 launches this year alone — but we finally have a silver lining, even if it is a small one.

Your older DJI drones should stay reliable for a little while longer.

That’s because the FCC has announced that it’s extending the waiver for certain drones to receive software updates in the US. Previously, it was set to expire on January 1, 2027, but now it will last until at least January 1, 2029 — foreign internet routers have also had their software access extended until this date (via Tom’s Hardware).

In terms of hardware access, nothing has changed, but it means that manufacturers shouldn't get blocked from releasing essential security or bug fix patches to already sold tech (at least not until 2029). Previously, this was a fear once the waiver ran out, and could have left some tech unable to function if it encountered a glitch, or turn your drone into the sort of security risk that the FCC’s ban is meant to avoid.

Meanwhile, DJI is attempting to appeal the FCC’s ruling in US courts. The ban came about when DJI was put on the 'Covered List' — a list of entities thought to be a threat to national security — though neither the FCC nor the US government has explained exactly what DJI has done to deserve this designation.

At the same time, these entities refused to perform a security audit of DJI, despite the company submitting to one.

The whole process has been a frustrating one to watch play out — especially given the excellent quality of DJI’s camera and drone tech. Hopefully, this waiver extension will help alleviate some issues, but we’ll have to wait and see how the DJI appeal goes for a more definitive verdict on the drone brand’s US fate.

Have your say

If you’re frustrated with the DJI ban, the FCC is currently giving the public a chance to submit comments on its measures — though the form closes today (May 11), so you don’t have much time left.

As highlighted on the r/drones subreddit, you just need to go to the FCC’s Submit an Express Comment page and fill in the short form; in the first box, type "26-22" to find the DJI ruling where you'll want to comment.

You will need to provide some personal information (such as your name and address), and then provide your comment on the ban. You can highlight how DJI drones have positively impacted your life, and/or you could question the confusing implementation of the ban — how it affects all of DJI’s tech rather than just its drones, or how the ban doesn’t seem to be applied fairly to other similar drone makers.

Equally, if you think the ban has had a positive impact (though we here at TechRadar wouldn’t agree), you can also leave a comment explaining why you hope the ban stays in place.

Just remember to keep your comments civil, the FCC likely won’t appreciate being bombarded with rude or hateful comments — and harsher words wouldn’t help either side’s arguments in this technology debate.

DJI Osmo Mobile 8P: two-minute review

When I reviewed the DJI Osmo Mobile 8 in November 2025, the only real criticism I had for it was its lack of a remote control. With the Osmo Mobile 8P, DJI has gone and fixed that issue — and in doing so has produced what I'd call the most capable lightweight smartphone stabilizer on the market right now.

The headline addition is the Osmo FrameTap, a detachable remote that snaps magnetically onto the gimbal handle for close-up work and slides off for remote shooting (with a range of up to 25m). Its 1.4-inch touchscreen can mirror your phone's camera view — directly on Android, via the Mimo app on iOS — so you can frame shots, trigger tracking, and adjust the gimbal's pan and tilt without having to peer at your phone's screen. It's a feature that the Osmo Mobile 8 was crying out for, and a match for the touchscreen remote that made the Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra one of my favorite gimbals of 2025.

In most other respects, the 8P is virtually identical to the Osmo Mobile 8: it has the same foldable form factor, built-in extension rod and mini tripod, magnetic phone clamp, 360° pan rotation, and up to 10 hours of battery life. DJI claims the OM 8P's 8th-generation three-axis stabilization delivers 20% more torque than the OM 8's, and while I don't doubt that on paper, I'd be surprised if most users noticed any difference in everyday shooting. The stabilization is smooth and dependable, as you'd expect from any modern DJI gimbal.

Where the 8P is more meaningfully upgraded is in its tracking skills. The Advanced Tracking Combo bundle I reviewed pairs the gimbal with the 2nd-Generation AI Tracking Module (officially the Multifunctional Module 2), which can now follow virtually any object — not just people and pets, but vehicles and more — using your phone's native camera or any third-party app. It also features a highly customizable LED fill light.

In testing, ActiveTrack 8.0 (only available through the Mimo app) and the Module 2's own tracking were both excellent, reliably re-acquiring me even when I ducked behind objects and re-emerged in a different spot. You can also set your position within the frame rather than being locked to the center, which is a useful tool for more compositionally minded creators. Apple DockKit tracking is also present, but with Module 2 available, it feels largely redundant. I suppose it's useful if you want the simplicity of NFC pairing, but it offers far fewer options than either of the other two modes.

Beyond tracking, the 8P's general feature set will feel familiar to anyone who has used its predecessor. You get the same four gimbal motion modes — PTF (pan and tilt follow), PF (pan follow), FPV, and SpinShot — cycled through via the FrameTap's on-screen mode button, plus a trigger on the front for re-centering, locking the gimbal axes, and flipping the phone between front and rear-facing cameras. Buttons for toggling between portrait and landscape orientation are also available (again, via the FrameTap's touchscreen), and the mini joystick handles manual pan and tilt when you want direct control over the gimbal arm.

There are some trade-offs here, though. By shifting much of the control scheme to the FrameTap's touchscreen, the 8P feels less immediately hands-on than the OM8 — the joystick is smaller, and functions like mode switching and camera toggling now live behind a touchscreen rather than dedicated physical buttons. The zoom/focus wheel present on the Osmo Mobile 8 is gone entirely, which feels like a regression. And if you're stepping up from a gimbal that used the original Multifunctional Module 1, note that the Module 2 has apparently dropped support for connecting a DJI wireless microphone directly to the module itself — you'll need to connect your mic to the phone instead.

All things considered, the Osmo Mobile 8P represents a small but meaningful step forward for DJI's gimbal lineup. Its tracking is class-leading, its remote control fills the one gap that held the OM 8 back, and its pricing remains competitive against rivals like the Insta360 Flow 2 Pro and Hohem iSteady V3 Ultra. The reduced physical controls and the Module 2's dropped mic receiver support are real niggles, but they're unlikely to be dealbreakers for most users. If you're in the market for a folding smartphone gimbal, the OM 8P is now the one to beat.

DJI Osmo Mobile 8P: price and availability

• Priced from £135 / AU$219
• Available in three different bundles

At £135 / AU$219 for the Standard Combo (which, importantly, includes the FrameTap), the Osmo Mobile 8P is priced at the same level as its predecessor.

The Advanced Tracking Combo (which is the configuration I tested) comes in at £169 / AU$269. It includes the same contents as the Standard Combo, plus the new Multifunctional Module 2 tracker and fill light.

Finally, there's the Creator Combo at £195 / AU$329, which features all of the above plus a DJI Mic Mini 2 transmitter and mobile receiver. Like all recent DJI products, there's no US pricing or availability at launch.

DJI Osmo Mobile 8P: specs

Should you buy the DJI Osmo Mobile 8P?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

DJI Osmo Mobile 8P review: Also consider

How I tested the DJI Osmo Mobile 8

• One week of use
• Tested with an Apple iPhone 13
• Used for B-roll and vlog-style footage

I reviewed the DJI Osmo Mobile 8P for around a week, testing it both handheld and set up on its built-in mini tripod. It was used with my Apple iPhone 13's front-facing and rear cameras, both indoors and outdoors, and I recorded video using a range of apps (but mostly the iPhone camera and DJI Mimo). I made sure to test its tracking capabilities with all three of the available tracking methods: ActiveTrack 8.0 (via the Mimo app only); the Module 2; and Apple DockKit.

First reviewed May 2026

Want a glimpse of the world's best aerial photography? DJI and SkyPixel's annual photo and video contest is the place to go, and this year's winners have just been announced after the early contenders were teased a couple of months ago.

The stunning winning photos and videos of the 11th edition of the contest were selected from over 95,000 entries and 96 countries and regions — and drone pilot Filip Hrebenda scooped the grand prize in the contest's $200,000 pot with his aerial image The Gate (see below).

Contest judge Zhu Jiong described the scene as "straight out of a fairyland — layered mountains wrapped in mist.

"The image feels calm on the outside, yet somehow breathtaking."

Four judges praised the grand prize winner, saying: "The location and conditions feel rare, especially with the fog and elevation, making the scene stand out."

Judge Daniel Kordan goes on to say: "I must admit I haven't seen such a composition before, so it is a unique and fresh shot."

The remote aerial scene was taken in Buskerud, Norway, with the DJI Mavic 3 Pro — a pro triple camera drone which we gave a five-star rating, and which has since been updated with the Mavic 4 Pro. We rank the Pro series as the best camera drones for consumers.

Details on the SkyPixel contest's site suggest Hrebenda used the main 24mm camera with variable aperture, which utilizes a micro four thirds sensor – that's bigger than those used in DJI's sub-250g drones.

Hrebenda had this to say about his winning image:

"Captured in the far north of Norway during the autumn of 2025, this photograph was taken in a remote and extremely difficult-to-reach location. At sunrise, the landscape was covered by dense fog that filled the valleys and concealed the dramatic terrain.

"After a demanding ascent, we finally rose above the cloud layer, revealing this surreal and almost otherworldly view. The natural stone arch, resembling a monumental gate carved by time, stands suspended above a deep valley, surrounded by rugged cliffs and distant mountain silhouettes emerging from the sea of mist. The lone figure on the rock emphasizes the scale and raw beauty of the landscape.

"To capture this composition, finding the perfect perspective was essential. This was made possible with the help of a DJI Mavic 3 Pro drone, which allowed me to position the camera precisely and reveal the full geometry of this extraordinary natural formation."

All the winning images can be seen at the SkyPixel site and also include the early front-runner Carpet Fields, which ended up being a finalist and was captured with the older Mavic 2 Pro.

It's truly amazing the standard of photography that camera drone pilots are creating with what is relatively affordable gear.

There's a winning new affordable drone on the market. But while the outstanding DJI Lito has winged its way to the UK and Australia, thanks to that pesky DJI ban, US shoppers are currently missing out. If you live in the US and are looking for a budget-friendly drone to buy now (or even if you're in the UK and want to explore all your options), I've rounded up the best Lito alternatives below.

The main model to consider is the Lito's predecessor, the DJI Mini 4K, which at time of writing holds the #2 spot in TechRadar's best drone ranking. It packs some impressive specs for an affordable price, and is an especially strong choice for beginners (we crowned it "your best first drone"). You can see exactly how it matches up against its replacement in our DJI Lito X1 vs DJI Mini 4K comparison.

For content creators looking to capture short selfie video clips and photos for social media, the obvious choice is the DJI Neo 2. It's compact, simple and wallet-friendly. And if you're looking to steer clear of DJI altogether, the Potensic Atom 2 is well worth a look.

Finally, there's a curve-ball option from TechRadar's Cameras editor Tim Coleman. "A left-field alternative is a 360 camera with a long selfie stick — you can get drone-like effects with those," he explains. You could pick any option from TechRadar's best 360 cameras guide, but for those seeking to keep the price down, Tim suggests the Insta360 Invisible selfie stick paired with the Insta360 X3 camera — this model has been upgraded twice over (with the X4 and X5) but it's still available, capable, and at this point very affordable. Who needs a Lito anyway?

DJI Lito alternatives

We rated the DJI Mic Mini as the best small wireless mic when it was launched in 2024, and it now has a successor in the shape of the Mic Mini 2. Both are 5-star products for content creators wanting an affordable, lightweight, and simple mic for better audio on the go.

If you already own a Mic Mini, there's very little reason to upgrade to the Mic Mini 2 because performance is practically the same; both mics feature clear 24-bit audio, two-level noise reduction, a transmission range up to 400m, healthy battery life, and a lightweight 11g build.

So what exactly is new? I've pinpointed the key differences below, chief among them being much better pricing this time around, plus a new bundle for mobile creators.

Surprisingly, however, DJI also revealed in its Mic Mini 2 press release that a Mic Mini 2S is in the pipeline for later this year. The 'S' version will add welcome upgrades missing in current models: internal recording, plus the capacity to sync up to four mics with one receiver. That's all we know about the Mic Mini 2S for now, but it sounds like it'll be worth the wait for Mic Mini upgraders.

Let's now see how the Mic Mini and Mic Mini 2 compare. You can find out more about each product in our full reviews via the links above.

1. Design

Both products are tiny, discreet, and lightweight — the Mic Mini 2 weighs just 11g by itself (not including the magnetic attachment). However, there's one new design trick in the Mic Mini 2 that could be worth an upgrade, depending on the user: magnetic covers.

The Mic Mini 2 has a magnetic surface that accepts covers, with a wide range of colors available, as you can see in the lead image of this article. There are further limited edition covers too (see above). There's a selection of covers included in the 2 TX + 1RX + Charging Case bundle (details below), while additional covers can be purchased separately.

If you're style-conscious and like the sound of a wireless mic that matches the color of your outfit, then this new feature could be worth the upgrade alone. However, if you don't mind the standard black or white options, then this upgrade could feel like a bit of a gimmick.

2. Voice tone presets

DJI has added three voice tone presets to the Mic Mini 2: regular, rich, and bright. The idea is that each preset optimizes audio quality based on the recording environment. However, our reviewer found that there was so little difference between the sound in each preset that it's barely worth the upgrade.

So if customizable colors aren't your bag, nor do the voice tone presets entice, there's essentially no reason to upgrade to the Mic Mini 2 from the Mic Mini. However, for those buying new, the biggest reason to be excited is a significant price cut, along with a new bundle designed for mobile creators.

3. Pricing and bundles

When the Mic Mini was unveiled in 2024, the 2 TX + 1RX + Charging Case bundle cost $169 / £145 / AU$245. It seems hard to believe, then, that the equivalent Mic Mini 2 bundle costs just £89 / AU$149 — that's a huge price cut, likely due to increased competition. As is the way with DJI currently, there's no US pricing or availability at launch.

There's also a new bundle designed for solo mobile creators, which comprises one mic, one mobile receiver (see our DJI Mic series mobile receiver hands-on), and a charging case, available for just £49 / AU$89. This kit includes a sleek receiver that slots into your phone's USB-C, whereas the bundle above includes the standard receiver, which is much clunkier when connected to a phone, and is a better fit for proper cameras.

The price for the mobile bundle is the same price that DJI was asking for a single mic when it launched the original Mic Mini. Sadly, it's not possible to buy a solo Mic Mini 2 mic just yet.

All that being said, the price of the original Mic Mini complete kit mentioned above has continually dropped during its two-year life, and can now be found for as little as £65 / AU$124 — that's less than the new version with its additional colored covers.

For me, those Mic Mini 2 prices are super competitive. Yes, the second-gen model is a tiny upgrade (customizable covers aside), but it led the way for value in an increasingly competitive space and is my new favorite small wireless mic. Whether or not the Mic Mini 2S reveal rains on the Mic Mini 2 parade, we'll have to wait and see.

DJI Mic Mini 2: one-minute review

The DJI Mic Mini 2 is DJI's second-generation entry-level wireless microphone system, replacing the late 2024-released Mic Mini, which we previously rated as the best small wireless mic.

The headline new feature is a set of interchangeable magnetic front covers for the transmitter units, available in colors ranging from white and black to a vivid magenta. Beyond the colorways, the other notable addition over the original Mic Mini is a trio of voice tone presets — Standard, Rich, and Bright — designed to let users subtly shape their vocal recordings.

Everything else will be instantly familiar to anyone who owns the original Mic Mini: the same compact and lightweight transmitter and receiver form factor, the same 24-bit 48kHz audio quality, the same maximum range of 400m with the standard receiver (or 300m with the mobile receiver), and the same claimed battery life of 11.5 hours for the transmitter and 10.5 hours for the receiver, extendable to 48 hours total using the charging case. Two-level active noise canceling is included, and the system is compatible with DJI's OsmoAudio ecosystem, meaning it connects wirelessly without a receiver to devices like the Osmo Action 6 and Osmo 360.

In my testing, audio quality proved crisp and clear, and the active noise canceling did a solid job of taming ambient noise. The voice tone presets, however, were a different story: the differences between Standard, Rich and Bright were so subtle in practice as to be barely worth mentioning, let alone factoring into a buying decision.

That verdict could stand in for the Mic Mini 2 as a whole, really. For buyers new to the world of wireless mics, it's an excellent option: lightweight, affordable, versatile, and easy to use. But for anyone coming from the original Mic Mini, the interchangeable covers and voice presets aren't a compelling reason to upgrade.

Also worth noting: DJI has confirmed that a Mic Mini 2S is coming this summer, bringing with it internal storage for solo recording and support for up to four transmitters simultaneously. If those features matter to you, it's worth sitting tight for now.

The Mic Mini 2 is a fine product sold at a great price. It just happens to be a product that DJI has already announced it will meaningfully improve in a matter of months – which makes it a harder sell than it might otherwise be.

DJI Mic Mini 2: price and release date

• Priced from £49 / AU$89
• Sold in two bundles – but transmitters not available separately
• Available now (except in the USA)

The DJI Mic Mini 2 was released worldwide on April 28 2026 – although, as with all recent DJI products, it will not officially launch in the USA. Not yet, anyway.

DJI offers the Mic Mini 2 in two bundles: the DJI Mic Mini 2 (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case) package costs £89 / AU$149 and includes two transmitters, a receiver, a charging case, two windscreens, two white magnetic front covers, two black magnetic front covers, two magnetic clips, two magnets, a carrying pouch, a USB-C mobile phone adapter, a 3.5mm audio cable, a USB-C charging cable and a box of multi-color magnetic front covers (see below).

Also available is the DJI Mic Mini 2 (1 TX + 1 Mobile RX + Charging Case) bundle, which includes a single transmitter, a mobile receiver, a small charging case, one windscreen, one black magnetic cover, one white magnetic cover, one magnetic clip, one magnet, one USB-C charging cable and a carrying pouch. It's priced at just £49 / AU$89.

Unlike the original Mic Mini, DJI doesn't appear to be selling Mic Mini 2 transmitters (mics) solo – at least not at launch. That's a shame – for some buyers using the Osmo Audio system or linking the transmitter directly to their phone via Bluetooth, a receiver and charging case may not be necessary.

However, the overall pricing seems much cheaper than the original Mini, which at launch cost £145 / AU$245 for the complete kit and £49 / AU$69 for individual TX units. So in terms of value, I think the Mic Mini 2 has a lot going for it.

DJI Mic Mini: specs

DJI Mic Mini 2: Design

• Transmitters support swappable front panels
• Clip or magnetic attachment
• Receiver offers manual audio gain, but no monitoring

If we're talking transmitters (also known as the TX units), the Mic Mini 2 looks a lot more like the full-size Mic 3 than it does the original Mic Mini. There's one key difference though: the Mini 2 supports swappable magnetic front covers, which can be prised off with a fingernail and replaced with another of a different color.

The DJI Mic Mini 2 (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case) bundle I was sent to review features a whole range of covers, from staid white and black to eye-popping magenta. These might come across a little gimmicky on paper, but they're harmless and fun – even if I can't really think of too many practical reasons why you'd need them (DJI markets them for outfit matching).

Besides the covers, the TX can be fitted with a clip-on furry windshield for outdoor use, as well as two other magnetic accessories for mounting: a small clip for attaching it to collars, caps and lapels, and a single (but sufficiently strong) magnet for clipping it directly to thinner fabrics. The clip's direction can be selected when attaching it, which is handy.

There's also an indicator light and a couple of buttons for powering on/off and pairing the TX with different devices, but other than that, the TX is pretty simple. It doesn't feature on-board storage and, with no USB-C port, can only be recharged in the charging case.

The standard receiver (or RX) looks identical to the original Mic Mini's to my eyes. It suffers from the same drawback, too: with no on-board LCD display, there's no way to monitor levels on the hardware. Still, I suppose that's what the more pro-friendly Mic 3 is for – the Mic Mini 2 is the affordable option, and cuts must be made somewhere. The receiver does have a clip for attaching to clothing, which can also slide onto a camera cold shoe, plus a USB-C adapter for plugging into smartphones (there's a Lightning adapter too, which I used with my iPhone 13, but it's an optional extra rather than included in the box). There's also a 3.5mm jack, dial for adjusting audio levels and power and pairing buttons.

Additionally, the new DJI Mic Mini 2 (1 TX + 1 Mobile RX + Charging Case) bundle comes with a mini receiver unit designed only for attaching to a mobile phone (as with the standard RX, this appears to be the same mobile RX that was available as an accessory for the original Mic Mini). I didn't test this myself (check out our experience with the receiver via the link above) but it's much lighter, smaller and more streamlined than the standard RX, and won't look as awkward when plugged into your handset.

DJI Mic Mini 2: Performance

• 11.5 hours battery life (transmitter), 10.5 hours battery life (receiver)
• Up to 400m range
• Two-level noise reduction and three voice tone presets

The Mic Mini 2 offers 24-bit 48kHz quality audio, just like the original Mic Mini. It's similar in other ways, too: there's a maximum range of 400m between TX and RX; the claimed battery life is the same (11.5 hours for a TX, 10.5 hours for the receiver and a total of 48 hours with the charging case); and there are two levels of active noise cancelling included. Both generations also feature automatic volume limiting to avoid clipping.

And, like the first Mic Mini, it also works seamlessly with OsmoAudio ecosystem products like the DJI Osmo Action 6 and Osmo 360 cameras and Osmo Mobile 8 smartphone stabilizer.

In fact, aside from the changeable covers, the only major difference I could find between this second-gen Mini and the first is the addition of three voice tone presets – Standard, Rich and Bright – which are designed to slightly tweak how vocal recordings sound. In practice, I found the differences between the three settings to be negligible, so I would say that owners of the original Mic Mini have no compelling reason to update to the new model.

Newcomers looking for a cheap wireless microphone option that performs well will be very happy with what's on offer here, though. I found the Mic Mini 2's quality to be crisp and clear, and a noticeable step up from the built-in mics found in smartphones, vlogging cameras and mirrorless cameras, and the mounting and connectivity options and general ease of use make it a joy to live with. The two-level active noise cancelling works well enough too – I tested it with a fan running in my office and, while it could still be heard whirring away even on the strongest noise cancelling setting, it was reduced enough to prevent it becoming an issue.

Interestingly, DJI tells me that a Mic Mini 2S is coming later in 2026, offering some real upgrades over the original Mic Mini. The Mini 2S's TX units will have internal storage space to support solo recording, and users will be able to connect up to four transmitters to a single receiver. It's launching this summer.

Should I buy the DJI Mic Mini 2?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

DJI Mic Mini 2: also consider

How I tested the DJI Mic Mini 2

• Several days of testing indoors and outdoors
• Connected to iPhone 13, DJI Osmo Action 6 and Panasonic Lumix GH6
• Tested with Bluetooth, OsmoAudio and RX

I've not had a huge amount of time to spend with the Mic Mini 2, but in the several days since my sample arrived I've managed to test it both indoors in quiet conditions and outside amongst traffic and wind noise. I've also paired with my iPhone 13, a DJI Osmo Action 6 action camera and my Panasonic Lumix GH6 mirrorless camera, testing it with and without the receiver unit involved.

• First reviewed: April 2026
• Read more about how we test

DJI just launched the Lito series, a new range of camera drones pitched at the beginner market. With all the usual safety and flight tech we've come to expect from DJI drones, plus well-specced 4K cameras, the Lito 1 and Lito X1 are very assured entry-level models for the price.

But they aren't DJI's cheapest quadcopters. The DJI Mini 4K has been around since 2024, and has been our pick for best beginner camera drone up to now (while the Neo 2 is even cheaper, but that's a type of selfie drone with propellor guards). The Mini 4K remains on sale as part of DJI's line-up (for now at least), available for significantly less than the Lito X1, plus it can be picked up in the US where Lito models aren't available yet.

So, should you stick with the cheaper, slightly older drone or opt for the shiny new release? Here's how the DJI Mini 4K stacks up next to its spiritual successor the DJI Lito X1*, starting with specs and then moving onto seven key differences.

*I've tested the pricier Lito X1 which is my top pick of the two new Lito models. The cheaper Lito 1 is closer in quality and price to the Mini 4K.

DJI Lito X1 vs DJI Mini 4K: spec compared

If you want a little more data on how the two drones compare, check out the spec comparison table below.

1. Video and photo quality

Both drones shoot 4K video, but the Lito X1 shoots a much better variety of it. Its 1/1.3-inch sensor can capture footage at up to 4K resolution and 60fps, and supports a 10-bit D-log M color profile — features that will come in highly useful for anyone happy to color grade and correct their footage in post-production. It can also take 48MP photos.

The Mini 4K employs a much smaller 1/2.3-inch sensor, recording 4K at 8-bit quality and up to 30fps. It's fine in good lighting conditions, but lacks the detail, color depth and dynamic range of the Lito X1's setup. Its maximum resolution for photos is 12MP.

2. Storage space

The Lito X1 comes with 42GB of built-in storage as well as a microSD card slot, while the Mini 4K (and Lito 1) has no internal storage – just the card slot.

3. Weight and design

Both drones weigh approximately 249g, putting them in a highly desirable low-restriction category in most countries. In the US, for instance, you won't need to register either drone before flying (assuming the Lito X1 ever makes it to the US), while in the UK you can fly them close to and over uninvolved people and in residential, commercial and recreational locations like towns, beaches and parks.

Design-wise, both drones use a familiar folding quadcopter shape that's easy to store and transport.

4. Battery life

There's not a lot of daylight between the drones here. In ideal conditions, a fully charged battery on the Mini 4K offers up to 31 minutes of flight time. On the Lito X1, it's 36 minutes. In real-world conditions, you'll get a bit less time in the air, but I'd call both pretty respectable.

The Lito X1 is compatible with an Intelligent Flight Battery Plus that DJI says provides up to 52 minutes of flight time. It will, however, increase the drone's weight above 249g – which may in turn restrict where it can be flown.

5. Safety features

The Lito X1 soars above and beyond here, boasting an omnidirectional vision sensor setup plus forward-facing LiDAR and a downward-facing infrared sensor. This helps it spot and avoid hazards no matter which direction it's travelling in, and the LiDAR works even in low light conditions.

The Mini 4K can't compare, really, It only uses a single downward-facing vision sensor (mainly for landing), so users need to be careful when flying – the drone won't help them out by braking or swerving around a tree, fence or lamppost.

Such advanced safety features offered by the Lito X1 are usually found in much pricier and heavier models. It's understandable that you don't usually get an omnidirectional vision sensor in a cheap beginner model, but the irony is that it's beginners who will, arguably, benefit from the feature the most.

6. Special flight modes

The Lito X1 comes with a host of automated flight modes, including ActiveTrack (where the drone will autonomously follow a selected human or vehicle, avoiding obstacles while it does so), SpotLight (similar, but with manual flight controls while the camera keeps the subject centred), MasterShots (a series of interesting camera moves on a selected subject or location) and QuickShots (similar, but one move at a time), plus one-button return-to-home.

The Mini 4K offers only QuickShots and return-to-home, making it feel rather barebones on the Intelligent Flight front.

7. Price

Here's the one area where the Mini 4K gets to shine, as it starts from just £242 (with an RC-N1C remote controller). The Lito X1 costs £369 (with the similar, but newer, RC-N3 controller), making it quite a bit pricier than its predecessor.

However, I do think that the extra camera, safety and Intelligent Flight Mode capabilities offered by the Lito X1 make it very good value. Not only will your footage and photos look sharper and richer, but you're far less likely to crash it – and you can set it to automatically follow you while you ride your bike through a forest, run along a beach or even drive down a desert highway! The Mini 4K remains a decent beginner drone, but if your budget can stretch a little further, the Lito X1 has plenty that'll appeal to intermediate users too.

Hit me with any questions you have about the new DJI Lito X1 and the best beginner drones in the comments below.

• DJI is appealing its ban in the US
• The company says it could lose $1.5 billion across this year
• 25 product launches are planned in 2026

Late last year, new DJI products were effectively banned from the United States, which means devices like the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 can't be found in the US. In a freshly published court filing, we've now got some idea of what the cost is going to be for DJI — and its US-based fans.

DJI is busy appealing the ban in the US courts (via DroneDJ), and in official filings the Chinese tech giant claims that being shut out of the United States is going to cost it some $1.5 billion across the course of this year — around $700 million for regulatory payments for devices that never launched, and another $860 million for new products in 2026.

Those new products number 25 in total, as per the filing (check out page 7), and will include both drones and other types of gadgetry (like vlogging cameras). This presents an "immediate and grave harm" to DJI, the document says.

And it's not just DJI that's missing out: DJI argues that businesses, energy companies, and emergency responders that rely on DJI kit are going to be negatively impacted, because they'll be stuck on older hardware. That's a violation of Constitutional and federal law, DJI argues in its appeal.

National security interests

The ban came about when DJI was put on the 'Covered List' by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the US — a list of entities thought to be a threat to national security (Huawei is also on the list, for example).

Neither the FCC nor the US government have explained exactly what threat DJI poses to the safety of citizens, but once a deadline for a security audit of DJI had passed, that was that. It's thought that there are concerns over a Chinese company having such deep access to US networks, and such a widespread array of photo and video capture devices.

Whatever the politics or security concerns, given that DJI regularly tops our list of the best drones on the market, it's a shame that US customers are no longer going to be able to get hold of these devices. The US appeals court must now decide whether the challenge can move forward, which would give DJI more scope to argue its case.

From DJI's side, the evidence is that substantial losses are already happening — and so the decision should be challenged at the earliest opportunity. In the meantime we're expecting another drone from DJI any day now.

Following weeks of speculation, DJI's new entry-level drone landed today in the UK and Australia. The DJI Lito is available in two iterations — we got our hands on the more advanced option ahead of its launch, and awarded it a perfect five stars in our DJI Lito X1 review.

But what about those of you living in the US, where — thanks to a ban on new DJI products — the Lito won't be arriving any time soon? Although we're hopeful this pocket-sized powerhouse might land on US shores at some point (the DJI Mini 5 Pro was similarly absent from the brand's official US store at its October 2025 launch, but has now made its way to third-party retailers in the US), if you don't want to wait around, I have good news.

The DJI Mini 4K (the model the new Lito will essentially replace) has dropped to an incredibly low price at Amazon right now. The Mini 4K holds the #2 spot in our best drone ranking, and in our review our Cameras editor Tim Coleman called it a "superb" choice for newbies, crowning it "your best first drone". Although the entry-level Lito 1 boasts slightly better specs in a number of areas, the Mini 4K is still a stellar drone — and even more appealing with the current discounts.

There are big price-drops across all three bundle options. You can pick up the drone on its own for $209 at Amazon (was $299), which is very nearly the cheapest-ever price for a drone that is usually sold at full whack. Pricier, but better value if you want to take to the skies on a regular basis, is the Fly More bundle. This adds spare batteries and a charging hub, and is also significantly cheaper than usual right now, down to $309 from its usual price of $449.

DJI Mini 4k deals

More affordable drones to consider

Not sure the Lito is the right drone for you? We've rounded up some alternatives to consider below. Unfortunately given the current situation, DJI remains the standout brand in this area.

For those who want to shoot selfie video, the DJI Neo 2 is an unbeatable affordable option. It's not discounted right now, but even at full price it's very budget-friendly. The DJI Mini 3 is a pricier option but has some deep discounts (we called it a "fantastic entry-level choice"). There aren't tons of non-DJI options we'd recommend, with the exception of the Potensic Atom 2, which is well worth a look.

DJI Lito X1 and Lito 1: One-minute review

DJI's Lito series represents the company's latest bid to own the entry-level camera drone market — and with the Lito X1 and the more affordable Lito 1, it's made a compelling case. Both are compact folding drones in the same pocket-friendly mould as DJI's Mini series, weighing under 250g and earning a C0/UK0 class designation that means you can fly them almost anywhere, including over people.

Out in the field, the Lito models impress on almost every front. Flight performance is smooth and stable; I flew in challenging coastal conditions in the UK and the drones held their own, and despite an 81dB noise rating, both models are surprisingly unobtrusive in the air.

Battery life is a high point too, with up to 36 minutes on a charge comfortably outpacing DJI's Neo 2 and other entry-level rivals. What really sets the Lito apart at this price, though, is its obstacle sensing: full omnidirectional coverage comes as standard on both models, while the X1 adds forward-facing LiDAR for even sharper hazard detection — a significant upgrade over the downward-only sensor on the DJI Mini 4K.

On the camera front, both drones punch above their weight. The Lito X1's 1/1.3-inch sensor captures 10-bit 4K 60fps footage with D-Log M support and 14 stops of dynamic range, giving videographers real room to work in post. The Lito 1's 1/2-inch sensor is no slouch either, though it lacks that dynamic range, and isn't as comfortable in lower-light situations.

I'd recommend most buyers stretch to the X1; the small premium over the Lito 1 also gets you LiDAR, 10-bit shooting and 42GB of built-in storage, which is a lot of extras for a modest price jump. Neither drone is perfect: the digital zoom gets noticeably soft at its tightest setting, the X1 has a default tendency to overexpose, and neither camera can rotate to shoot vertical video natively.

At £299 / AU$539 for the Lito 1 and £369 / AU$619 for the Lito X1, DJI has priced this series aggressively. The X1 in particular offers a spec sheet that rivals far pricier drones, making it one of the best-value camera drones available right now. US buyers should note that, like other recent DJI products, the Lito series isn't officially available stateside and can only be sourced through grey market channels. For everyone else, it's an easy recommendation from me.

DJI Lito X1 and Lito 1: Price and release date

• Launched on April 23 2026
• Lito 1 priced from £299 / AU$539, Lito X1 from £369 / AU$619
• Fly More Combo bundles available for both drones

The Lito series was introduced worldwide on April 23 2026, and is available to order now from DJI's website and other retailers – except in the United States where, as with all recent DJI products, there are no plans to bring it to retailers (although buyers may be able to acquire it through certain retailers on the grey market).

As mentioned above, there are two models available at launch: the barebones Lito 1, and the more premium Lito X1. These are priced at £299 / AU$539 and £369 / AU$619 respectively, and are also available in Fly More Combos for £429 / AU$779 and £599 / AU$1,069. The Lito 1 Fly More Combo comes with two additional batteries, a three-battery charging cradle, an RC-N3 controller, and a carrying bag; the Lito X1 features the same, but swaps the RC-N3 controller for the touchscreen-equipped RC 2 model.

The Litos are slotting in right at the bottom of DJI's drone range, alongside models like the Mini 4K, Neo 2 and Flip. In fact, I suspect the Mini 4K is about to be phased out in favor of the Lito, as the Lito is superior in every major respect, but the Neo 2 and Flip will remain, as they offer something a little different.

Is the Lito good value? Yes, in short — it's the same price as the Flip and more expensive than the Neo 2, but offers better battery life than both (significantly so, compared to the Neo 2) and better obstacle sensing than the Flip. In fact, the Lito X1 offers similar specs to the Mini 4 Pro (another drone that I believe may be on the way out of DJI's lineup) at a significantly lower price.

• Price score: 5/5

DJI Lito X1 and DJI Lito: Specs

DJI Lito X1: Design and build quality

• Folding sub-250g body, similar to Mini series
• Labelled UK0 / C0 class
• 42GB of internal storage (X1 model only) plus microSD slot

The Lito X1 and Lito 1 are virtually identical in design, with the only real physical difference being a (very) slight variation in the color of their plastic bodies. If not for that, and the product name displayed on their prop arms, the two drones would be impossible to tell apart.

The folding design is reminiscent of DJI's Mini series, and like those drones, the Lito weighs under 250g. As a result it's classed C0 in Europe and UK0 in the United Kingdom, meaning it can be flown almost anywhere, as well as close to and above "uninvolved" people. Additionally, the Lito's folding design means it's one of the few drones out there that I could genuinely say is pocket-sized – although we're talking trenchcoat pocket rather than jeans pocket here.

As with most of its drones, DJI supplies the Lito with a plastic cap to protect the camera and gimbal when they're not in use, but no carry case by default — you'll have to upgrade to the Fly More Combo if you want a bag.

In general, the drone is well built, despite its weight. The plastic used for the body is sturdy, with built-in feet/landing gear to prevent the sensors getting damaged when it's sitting on a surface; the propellers, however, are largely unprotected, so some care is required when handling.

The battery slides in and out from the back, which is also where you'll find the USB-C port and microSD slot. The USB port can be used for charging and data transfer, while the microSD slot supports storage. The Lito X1 also includes 42GB of built-in storage space, which can be supplemented with microSD if required, but you'll need a microSD card for the Lito 1.

The RC 2 and RC-N3 controllers supplied with the Lito are tried and tested models that we've covered in previous DJI drone reviews. Suffice to say they're solidly built and comfortable in the hand, and the RC 2 has a very impressive built-in touchscreen.

• Design score: 5/5

DJI Lito X1: Features and flight performance

• QuickTransfer uses Wi-Fi 6 to move files quickly to a mobile device
• Both Lito 1 and Lito X1 offer omnidirectional obstacle avoidance, plus LiDAR on Lito X1
• Up to 36 minutes of flight time per battery

We've always rated the DJI Mini 4K as the company's best bang-for-buck beginner's model, but it had one drawback: a lack of object detection, leaving it liable to crashing into fences, lampposts, tree branches and the like.

The Lito drones, however, come with full omnidirectional object sensing, allowing them to dodge structures and hazards with ease. In fact, the Lito X1 even comes with forward-facing LiDAR, giving it even better hazard perception, even in the sort of low-light situations where the Lito 1's vision-based system proves incapable.

The Lito models also come with the usual DJI boons like one-button take-off, return-to-home and landing, highly accurate GPS and good in-flight stability. DJI claims the Lito models offer wind resistance up to 10.7m/s, but having flown them in wind speeds far exceeding that, I'd say the company is being conservative.

Using either the RC 2 or RC-N3 controller and the DJI Fly app, flying the Lito is a piece of cake. The drone nimbly responds to the controls and boasts a video transmission range far longer than anyone would reasonably want to test, along with impressive battery life. You can get up to 36 minutes of flying time on a single charge, says DJI, and while the reality is likely to be more like 25 minutes of anxiety-free flying before the app repeatedly nags you into landing, that's a lot of air time for a cheap, entry-level drone.

Other features worth mentioning are the bevy of automated flight modes, such as Spotlight (which keeps the camera trained on a subject while you pilot the drone), ActiveTrack (which follows moving vehicles and people while navigating around obstacles) and user-set waypoint flying, plus the Wi-Fi 6-based QuickTransfer system, which can move huge video files from the drone to your mobile device's storage in seconds.

• Flight performance score: 5/5

DJI Lito X1: Image and video quality

• Lito X1 has 1/1.3-inch sensor, while Lito 1 has 1/2-inch sensor
• Lito X1 supports 10-bit video and D-log M color profile
• Both drones shoot JPEG and DNG photos at 12MP and 48MP

Most of DJI's drones now record 4K video — even the bargain-basement original DJI Neo — but the Lito X1 and Lito 1 offer a better flavor of 4K than the existing entry-level Mini 4K model's 4K 30fps footage, captured from a 1/2.3-inch sensor. The Lito 1 records 8-bit 4K 60fps video from a slightly larger 1/2-inch sensor (presumably the same one that's in the DJI Neo 2), while the Lito X1 records 10-bit 4K 60fps video using a 1/1.3-inch sensor (which I suspect is the same as the one in the DJI Flip, Mini 4 Pro and Avata 2). Both use a 3-axis gimbal to steady the camera as they shoot.

The Lito X1 also supports the flat D-log M color profile, offering a dynamic range of up to 14 stops when graded in post-production — something that's sure to appeal to demanding aerial videographers who enjoy tweaking their own footage to perfection. You can see both straight-from-the-camera and graded footage in my sample video above, and further down there's another video showcasing the Lito 1's camera which, while certainly a step down from the X1's, is no slouch itself, especially in good lighting.

I'm impressed with the results from both cameras, both video and 12MP/48MP stills (which can be captured in raw DNG as well as JPEG); the Lito X1 is especially noteworthy.

That being said, these are still entry-level models, and they can't match results from the likes of the DJI Mini 5 Pro or Air 3S. This is especially true when you attempt to 'zoom' in, which is where the sensors' small sizes shows their limitations. You can see examples in my videos, but the digital zooms on both Litos are somewhat disappointing. I also felt that the X1 had a tendency to overexpose its video by default, but even if this isn't tweaked in a future firmware update it's something the user can fix by adjusting the EV.

Overall, it's fair to say that the cameras on the Lito X1 and Lito 1 are really solid by entry-level standards, and a step up over what we've seen on the Mini 4K.

• Image and video quality score: 4.5/5

DJI Lito X1: Testing scorecard

Should I buy the DJI Lito X1/Lito 1?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

DJI Lito X1: also consider

How I tested the DJI Lito X1 and Lito 1

• I tested all flight modes and control methods
• I captured both videos and photos
• I tested the drones' tracking and safety features

About a week before the official launch, DJI sent me both the Lito X1 Fly More Combo and the basic Lito 1 package (including the RC-N3 controller) to test. That gave me a few days to take both drones out and about for real-world flight and camera tests in a range of conditions.

I flew in both windy and calm weather, and was able to test the two drones' cameras in low-light conditions. I tested not only manual flight, but autonomous modes like Spotlight, ActiveTrack and MasterShots, as well as assessing how DJI's battery-life and object-avoidance claims held up to real-world conditions.

After flying, I edited together the videos you see above using DaVinci Resolve 20, including using LUTs and color correction for the D-log M footage I captured with the Lito X1. I also tweaked the DNG raw still photographs I took with both drones using Adobe Lightroom.

• First reviewed: April 2026
• Read more about how we test

DJI Osmo Pocket 4: One-minute review

I've been around the content creator's block enough times to say that the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is easily the most popular vlogging camera for creators on the go. I've seen the tiny, gimbal-stabilized 4K camera in the hands of so many people, and with good reason — it's a fabulously discreet and powerful pocket video camera.

Ahead of what could be a stampede of new rivals, not least of which could be the rumored Insta360 Luna, DJI now looks to build on the success of its two-and-a-bit-year-old vlogging camera with a new and improved successor, the Osmo Pocket 4.

Considering the time between the two cameras, and how swift DJI has been in bringing genuine improvements to its camera gear in recent years, especially its drones such as the Mini 5 Pro, I expected a little more from the Pocket 4. That being said, there are a few notable upgrades worth knowing about — I've unpacked those in more detail in this Pocket 4 vs Pocket 3 article.

All the bits I appreciate about the Pocket 3 remain — the compact design, stellar video stabilization performance, crisp 4K video, the easy switch between vertical and horizontal video, and direct connection with wireless mics.

What DJI has done in the Pocket 4 is add some welcome polish. The new features might not leap out on a spec sheet, but in real use they combine for a slicker user experience.

Top upgrades include better slow-motion recording, now up to 240fps in 4K, better-quality 4K video with 10-bit color depth and wider dynamic range now up to 14 stops, slicker subject tracking which is available in more modes, better battery life, 107GB of internal memory, and refined controls, such as a new magnetic gimbal arm which accepts accessories such as a fill light (see the hero image).

It's not a big upgrade per se, but it's enough of an improvement that I would recommend Pocket 3 owners take a look, and it's an easy recommendation for first-time buyers looking for a powerful and small vlogging camera besides their smartphone.

DJI has tightened its stranglehold on this pocket video camera market, but for how long? When Insta360 enters the stage, it might just wrestle the spotlight away from this playing-it-safe Pocket 4 upgrade.

DJI Osmo Pocket 4: price and release date

• Announced on April 16 2026
• Available in Essential, Standard and Creator Combo kits
• Prices start at £429 / AU$749, with US availability and pricing TBC

The DJI Osmo Pocket 4 was unveiled on April 16 2026 in Essential, Standard and Creator Combo packages. The Essential Combo costs £429 / AU$749, the Standard Combo is £445 / AU$769 and comes with the gimbal clamp and tripod handle, while the Creator Combo, which adds Mic 3 transmitter, wide-angle lens, magnetic fill light, mini tripod, and carry bag accessories, costs £549 / AU$959, and is better value for DJI newcomers.

There's no US pricing or availability at launch through official DJI channels, given DJI's ongoing issues in the US. Like most DJI products, the Osmo Pocket 4 is excellent value considering what it's capable of, and it'll be a tough ask for future rivals to beat it.

• Price score: 4.5/5

DJI Osmo Pocket 4: specs

DJI Osmo Pocket 4: Design

• Similar pocket-size dimensions to the Pocket 3, with rotating screen and gimbal-mounted camera
• USB-C fast charging and a handy 107GB of internal storage in addition to micro SD
• New controls added, and smarter joystick response

The Pocket 4 has a familiar look about it, because it keeps a similar Pocket 3 form factor that has won many admirers, even if it is a tiny bit taller.

I can't stress enough how important its compact dimensions are for vlogging on the go. The Pocket 4 is even more discreet for video than a phone, and in my experience I've never had anyone take issue with me filming in public with an Osmo Pocket. Put simply, you can film freely with one of these.

At first glance you might think there's nothing new in this latest model, but there are in fact some helpful design tweaks. For instance, the speed of the gimbal's movement responds to how firmly you push the joystick, making quick or more precise adjustments possible — whereas before the movement was a single speed.

DJI has also added two new buttons under the screen, which are only visible when the display is flipped horizontal, but which provide shortcuts to useful regularly used controls, including the 2x lossless zoom.

The gimbal arm has been fitted with a magnetic surface and electronic contacts, which can be used to pair accessories, such as the new magnetic fill light included in the Creator Combo kit (see below).

On connection, the light automatically fires up because it's powered by the camera. Its output is minimal, and of no real help in bright daylight, but it's certainly useful in dimly lit spaces or at night.

Otherwise, the design is mostly as you were. The gimbal is supremely effective for smooth video on the move, the rear screen still rotates 90 degrees to switch between horizontal and vertical recording, and there's still a micro SD card slot (now with a protective cover) and USB-C charging.

There are other additions regarding memory and power, which I'll get onto next.

• Design score: 4.5/5

DJI Osmo Pocket 4: Performance

• Improved subject tracking
• 107GB of built-in memory added
• Higher-capacity battery extends record times

Despite it effectively being the same size as the Pocket 3 (just a fraction taller), there's a higher-capacity 1,545mAh battery squeezed into the Pocket 4 — that’s 20% more power compared to the older 1,300mAh unit.

This new battery provides up to four hours shooting time, but the small print stipulates that this for recording 1080p video at 24fps, and with wireless connections and the screen turned off. If you're recording 4K video, expect shooting times to be significantly less.

Still, that's quite the feat for such a tiny camera, plus charge times have been reduced, so you can be ready to shoot again quicker. From flat, the Pocket 4's battery can get to 100% charge in 32 minutes, or an 80% charge in just 18 minutes. Again, the small print says those numbers are for using DJI's 65W PD charger (sold separately, or included in the Creator Combo kit). I don't have the numbers for regular USB-C charging.

In addition to microSD card memory (compatible with cards up to 1TB), DJI has fitted the Pocket 4 with 107GB of built-in storage. which is sufficient for many hours of 4K video files, while the Pocket 3 has none. Both can record onto microSD.

There’s next-gen Wi-Fi 6 and USB 3.1 support in the Pocket 4 too, plus faster wired transfer speeds, making for a speedier workflow on the move.

Subject tracking has seen a boost in performance, with an upgrade to DJI's latest Active Track 7.0 (the Pocket 3 uses Active Track 6.0). A double tap on your subject in the frame initiates tracking, with the ability to track people, animals, vehicles and more.

DJI has let subject tracking loose in that it's available in more shooting modes. It's one of many instances where the Pocket 4 feels like a more polished all-rounder than the Pocket 3, which has many similar features but is hampered by what feel like unnecessary restrictions on which shooting modes you can use them in.

One drawback that does remain, however, is that the Pocket 4 can get a little warm when using its more power-hungry features. I've not had any overheating issues, but you're aware of the camera warming up when you're holding it.

• Performance score: 5/5

DJI Osmo Pocket 4: Image and video quality

• 1-inch sensor and single camera with 4K video up to 240fps
• New color profiles added, including D-Log and filmic looks
• Low-light further boosts the improved 14 stops dynamic range

For most people, the outright image quality of the Pocket 4, while impressive for pro vloggers, won't be enough reason to upgrade from the Pocket 3, which was already impressive in this regard. Both cameras are fitted with a 1-inch sensor, but DJI says the Pocket 4's 4K video output is optimized with 14 stops of dynamic range and 10-bit color depth.

One factor contributing to improved tones is the addition of a D Log color profile, which is available in the Pro setting. It's DJI's best flat color profile (also found in the pricey Mavic 4 Pro drone) which gives greater editing scope for color graders. The Pocket 3 offers D Log-M, which is a bit like a light version of D Log.

DJI says that the Low Light mode further boosts dynamic range and overall image quality from its previous Pocket. I haven't directly compared the two, but from the recordings I've made with the Pocket 4, detail in dark scenes looks a little cleaner than I remember.

There are also six new film tones to choose from for stylized baked-in looks, handy for users who would rather not mess around with Log and color grading. I've happily used a couple of these profiles regularly – 'Movie' is nice and punchy.

Slow-motion recording receives a boost, in that the Pocket 4 can shoot up to 240fps — that’s 8x slow-mo — in 4K and 1080p. The Pocket 3 is limited to 120fps for 4K, but can also shoot at 240fps in 1080p.

For stills photography, a SuperPhoto mode ups resolution from 9.4 megapixels to 37 megapixels, for more detailed snaps. That's for 1:1 aspect ratio pics, the resolution drops to 33 megapixels when switching to 16:9.

Even in stills mode, the Pocket 4 is clearly a video-focused camera, in that it doesn't offer 3:2 and 4:3 aspect ratio stills common among photographers.

The 2x lossless zoom is easily selected by pressing the left of the two new buttons under the Pocket 4's display, and again DJI has loosened previous restrictions for this feature — it can now be used in photo mode and when subject tracking is active.

Yes, image quality upgrades are minor in the Pocket 4, but for professional users there's just about enough to merit swapping out their Pocket 3.

• Image and video quality score: 4.5/5

DJI Osmo Pocket 4: testing scorecard

Should I buy the DJI Osmo Pocket 4?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

DJI Osmo Pocket 4: also consider

How I tested the DJI Osmo Pocket 4

• DJI loaned me the Creator Combo kit a few weeks before the product's launch
• I regularly used the Pocket 4 and all of its accessories
• I've tested its new features, including 240fps slow-mo recording

DJI loaned me an Osmo Pocket 4 Creator Combo kit, which comprises the camera, gimbal guard, magnetic fill light, grip handle, battery handle, mini tripod and DJI Mic 3 transmitter. I used all of these accessories throughout my review period ahead of the product launch, which spanned the best part of a month.

I briefly compared how the Pocket 4 differs to the Pocket 3 by holding both products side by side, though I haven't shot like-for-like videos with the two cameras to compare quality.

I've shot video in all resolutions and frame rates — that's 4K and 1080p up to 240fps — utilized subject tracking, and shot comparison clips using the various color profiles, including D-Log and the six presets, and used the SuperPhoto and regular photo modes in RAW and JPEG format.

I've recorded onto the camera's internal memory, and run the camera battery down and checked recharge times using a standard USB-C cable.

• First reviewed: April 2026
• Read more about how we test

There are a lot of tech stories that get published every day on TechRadar, and we'll forgive you for not getting around to reading all of them — though we're very grateful if you do (and our daily newsletter might be perfect for you as well).

If you're in need of a catch up on what's been happening since this time last week, then our ICYMI (In Case You Missed It) round-up is here to help. It features the biggest stories from the week, summarized in an easy-to-digest format.

With new LG TVs, cameras from DJI and GoPro, Fire TV sticks, and more to discuss, it's once again been quite a week in technology — here's what went down.

7. We got our first taste of Spider-Man: Brand New Day

We've already seen a trailer, but the first extended clip of Spider-Man: Brand New Day has been shared at CinemaCon 2026 in Las Vegas, and there's lots to dig into. Besides what it tells us about the upcoming Spidey flick (arriving in theaters on Friday, July 31), it also hints at some retconning that could have an impact on the next two Avengers movies.

This is mostly just speculation until we get to see the movie for ourselves, but everything is now perfectly set up for the return of Tom Holland as the superhero web slinger. At the same CinemaCon 2026 event, we've also been treated to two excellent new posters for the movie — check both of them out via the link below and tell us which one you prefer.

• Read the full story: Spider-Man: Brand New Day's first big clip has been revealed at CinemaCon 2026 — and I think it's teasing us over how it'll set up Marvel's next two Avengers movies

6. There was a new twist in the US foreign router ban

The US administration recently banned the launch of any new routers manufactured in foreign countries — ostensibly over national security concerns. One of the companies expected to be affected by the ban was Netgear, but this week we got news that the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) will be giving Netgear routers a pass.

Netgear has told us that it did submit an application for an exemption based on the FCC guidelines, which take into account the future plans of a company as well as current manufacturing processes, and that may be what made the difference here. Whatever the details in the small print, this remains a somewhat confusing ruling by the FCC.

• Read the full story: Netgear routers seemingly won’t be banned in the US after all — and this just proves the ban was never about security

5. Amazon gave us a slimmer Fire TV Stick

There was a lot of Amazon Fire TV news this week: not only did we get a slimmer version of the dependable Fire TV Stick HD streaming device, there's an interface revamp coming for all Fire TV devices. The updated layout is apparently going to help users to find content faster, with improved category selections one of the incoming software improvements.

Alongside the interface refresh, Amazon is also pushing out Fire TV channels, which will be free and ad-supported. These channels are going to be rolling out internationally at the end of the month, and cover genres such as news, comedy, cooking, and travel. These updates are substantial enough for rivals such as Roku and Google to take note.

• Read the full story: Own a Fire TV device? You're getting a free update soon, with refreshed layout and new streaming channels — and Amazon's also launching a slimmer Fire TV Stick

4. We tried 'the most beautiful phone of 2026'

Oppo has something to say to those who think smartphone design has peaked, and it's saying it in the form of the Find X9 Ultra. We've spent some time with the handset, which is inspired by the fantastic Hasselblad X2D camera in terms of its aesthetics, and this could genuinely end up being the most beautiful phone of 2026 (and quite a few other years as well).

There's going to be a full reveal of the phone next week, but for now we can confirm that the Oppo Find X9 Ultra comes with twin 200MP cameras and 10x optical zoom, and we're confident that the inside of the phone will be just as good as the outside. Stay tuned to TechRadar for more details over the next few days, including pricing and availability.

• Read the full story: The Oppo Find X9 Ultra is inspired by my favorite Hasselblad camera — and I think it's the most beautiful phone of 2026 so far

3. The DJI Osmo Pocket 4 finally landed

After months of rumors and speculation, the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 has finally landed, and this looks to be a serious upgrade over the Pocket 3 that preceded it. We've listed seven key upgrades that make the latest model worth a look, whether you're looking to upgrade from an existing device or wanting to get started with a vlogging camera for the first time.

The upgrades here include a new 4K sensor for better photos and video, improved color handling, a new slo-mo mode (up to 8x in full 4K), and subject tracking. We've got some welcome design tweaks to talk about too, while there's a higher capacity battery compared to the Pocket 3 that should ensure more recording time between charges.

• Read the full story: DJI Pocket 4 vs DJI Pocket 3 — 7 upgrades for the next best-selling vlogging camera

2. GoPro launched its epic Mission action cams

GoPro has been rather quiet of late, but that changed this week, when we got three new models from the camera company. These models are firmly aimed at serious videographers and photographers, too — the Mission 1 Pro ILS supports a Micro Four Thirds lens mount, which means it's compatible with hundreds of existing lenses.

That model is joined by the Mission 1 and Mission 1 Pro models. All three cameras feature a new 1-inch 50MP sensor and are capable of recording 8K video, and while we're still waiting for details on pricing, we do know pre-orders are opening up on May 21. Check out the three new models for yourself and let us know your thoughts — is GoPro back?

• Read the full story: GoPros get their biggest upgrade for 20 years with trio of 'professional' Mission 1 8K action cams — and one even supports hundreds of pro camera lenses

1. We tested LG's new flagship OLED TV

For many years LG has topped our list of the best OLED TVs on the market – or been very close to the top – and so expectations were high for the LG G6 that's leading the charge for the electronics maker in 2026. Having spent three weeks in the company of the television, we can confirm that it sets a new high bar when it comes to viewing experiences.

The LG G5 remains an excellent TV, but the LG G6 has somehow managed to improve on its predecessor in terms of picture quality, reflection reduction, gaming performance, color reproduction, and performance in brightly lit rooms. Have a read through our review and see if this could be the significant television upgrade you've been waiting for.

• Read the full story: I reviewed the LG G6 for 3 weeks, and it's a fantastic OLED TV that's the new best option for brighter rooms

Following months of rumors, the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 has finally landed to succeed the best-selling Pocket 3 vlogging camera, and I expect it to be equally popular.

It’s not a huge upgrade; nonetheless, the Pocket 4 looks like a more polished vlogging camera that could be worth swapping out the Pocket 3 for. This article covers the 7 most notable improvements in the latest model.

And if you are on the hunt for your first vlogging camera, either model is well worth a look. I've shot plenty of content with the Pocket 4 ahead of its launch — look out for my in-depth review, coming soon — and consistently with its predecessor over the last two years, and they are excellent smartphone alternatives for video, combining an exceptionally discreet and tiny body with sharp, gimbal-stabilized 4K video, complete with the tools needed for clear vocals, especially using DJI's own wireless mics.

The Pocket 4 costs £429 / AU$749 for the Essential Combo, or £549 / AU$949 for the Creator Combo, which adds a battery handle, wireless mic, and a new magnetic fill light, among other extras. There’s no US pricing or availability at launch.

Without further ado, let's dive into the key differences between the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 and Pocket 3.

1. Video quality

The spec sheet suggests little change on the image quality front – like its predecessor, the Pocket 4 shoots 4K video and features a 1-inch sensor. However, DJI says the sensor is new, and its 4K video output is optimized with 14 stops of dynamic range which is further expands by 2 stops in the low light mode.

There's also 10-bit color depth and a revised D-Log color profile available in the Pro setting. Want a baked-in look? There are six new film tones to choose from. There are a bunch of new beauty filters, too, if that's your thing, found in the revised DJI Mimo app.

2. Slow motion

One of the headline-grabbing upgrades is 8x slo-mo recording in 4K – that’s 240fps, which is up from the Pocket 3's maximum 120fps. Most other cameras that offer such slow frame rates, including the Pocket 3 tend to do so just for 1080p, but DJI has expanded these frame rates from 1080p to 4K in the latest model. The 2x zoom function (scroll down for more details) doesn't work in this mode, mind you.

3. Subject tracking

DJI’s next-gen Active Track 7.0 features in the Pocket 4, for some of the stickiest subject tracking I’ve experienced. Simply double-tap your subject and the Pocket 4 will keep them in the centre of the frame, with support for people, vehicles, pets, and more.

Subject tracking works in photo mode, with the 2x lossless zoom and for the D-Log color profile, none of which is true of the Pocket 3's Active Track 6.0 feature.

4. Photo skills

Photo resolution has been increased from 9.4 megapixels in the Pocket 3 and up to 37 megapixels in the Pocket 4 for more detailed snaps, provided you select the SuperPhoto mode. You'll get the maximum resolution for 1:1 aspect stills, which drops to 33 megapixels in the 16:9 format. In the regular photo mode, the resolution is the same as before, being roughly equivalent to 4K.

Photos can be captured in JPEG or RAW format, or both simultaneously. The 2x lossless zoom can now be used in photo mode and when active track is in play, whereas this function is not available in the Pocket 3.

5. Controls

Less measurable on a spec sheet but of infinite help in actual use, the Pocket 4 has some welcome design tweaks.

The joystick, which controls the camera's gimbal, has been upgraded, and the speed of its movement responds to how firmly you push it. There are also two new buttons under the screen, which are visible when the display is horizontal, providing shortcuts to useful controls such as zoom.

The gimbal arm has been fitted with electronic contacts and a magnetic surface, which can be used to pair a new magnetic fill light accessory, which is part of the Creator Combo kit. The light is powered by the camera and its output is minimal, only being of real use in dimly lit spaces or at night, but it's certainly a useful extra.

6. Battery life

DJI has fitted a higher capacity 1,545mAh battery in the Pocket 4 – that’s 20% more juice compared to the Pocket 3’s 1,300mAh unit. With this new battery unit, the Pocket 4 has been tested for up to 4 hours run time, when recording 1080p video at 24fps and with wireless connections and screen turned off. 4K recording run time will be significantly less.

Charge time has been reduced, too. Using DJI's 65W PD charger (sold separately), the Pocket 4 can gain a 100% charge in 32 minutes, or an 80% charge in just 18 minutes. We don't have the numbers for regular USB-C charging.

7. Memory

The Pocket 4 features 107GB of built-in storage, which is sufficient for many hours of 4K video files, while the Pocket 3 has none. Both can record onto micro SD. Oh and praise be, DJI has added a protective door over the micro SD card slot, which is fully exposed in the Pocket 3.

There’s next-gen Wi-Fi 6 and USB 3.1 support in the Pocket 4 too, plus faster wired transfer speeds, making for a speedier workflow on the move.

There are a few more additional features in the Pocket 4, but those 7 are the big ones, and it feels like an all-around more polished vlogging cam.

What do you reckon, does the Pocket 4 sound like a vlogging camera worth upgrading for? Let me know in the comments below!

• Expect the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 on April 16
• The vlogging camera has been long rumored
• Insta360 is also launching the Luna soon

The build-up to the launch of the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 has been a long and busy one, but we now have an official date for the unveiling of the vlogging camera — while further leaks appear for a rival device from Insta360.

DJI has posted a teaser clip to social media that tells us the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 will launch on Thursday, April 16. The reveal begins at 12pm GMT, which works out as 4am PT / 7am ET / 9pm AEST in Australia, so get your calendars marked accordingly.

The camera isn't mentioned by name, but we do get a pretty good glimpse of it, with the tagline "the world in my pocket". In Japanese, the tagline translates as "the world expands", which may hint at expanded camera sensor capabilities.

As Notebookcheck points out, that hints at a wider native focal length on the new camera, together with support for the Open Gate standard, as offered by the iPhone 17 Pro — it means more of the sensor area can be used for filming.

DJI vs Insta360

The official announcement hasn't stopped the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 leaks from appearing. Regular tipster Igor Bogdanov (via Notebookcheck) has posted more renders of the camera ahead of time, showing its tweaked design—with two extra console buttons.

Among the other upgrades that have been tipped are improvements to the 1-inch sensor that allow in more light and improve photo and video quality, and an additional camera a potential possibility for a Pro version of the device.

However, DJI might immediately have some competition for its new camera. Again we're indebted to Igor Bogdanov for the leak, this time for the Insta360 Luna: it's described as a "more interesting" version of what DJI is about to unveil.

The Insta360 Luna is official, sort of, having already been announced — but we don't know exactly when it's going to go on sale, or any of the specs we can expect. For consumers though, more choice and more competition is most definitely welcome.

Another week, another seven days of some seriously big tech news, and we're here to help you catch up on what you might have missed.

From Mac shortages to Artemis II iPhone photos, we have recaps of the seven biggest news stories of the week below for you.

When you're finished, make sure to also check out the eight new movies and TV shows you should watch this weekend.

7. Pebblebee built an excellent AirTag rival

This week, personal safety device company Pebblebee launched its new Halo tracker, a new AirTag rival but with added functionalities.

Built on that ‘what if something goes wrong’ feeling, the Halo tracker can be registered on Apple’s Find My app or Google’s Find Hub, so no additional app is required. When activated, the tracker signals a 130dB siren when activated to attract attention from passersby in the area, and will also emit a flashing strobe of light (which doubles as a 150-lumen flashlight), all while sharing your real-time location with up to five trusted contacts called your Safety Circle

It’s retailing now for $59.99/ £55.28/ AU$87.88, and each device comes with a free 12-month subscription to Pebblebee’s Alert Live plan, which is required for live location sharing.

• Read the full story: Pebblebee’s new personal tracker is an AirTag crossed with a safety siren

6. We tried DJI's robovac

The people at DJI know a lot about drones, but it turns out they’re no slouches when it comes to robot vacuums, either. We tested the new DJI Romo P, with its funky transparent case that lets you see its cleaning components while it works, and its obstacle detection and navigation blew us away.

The Romo P surpassed expectations in our vacuuming tests, too, getting right into the corners of the room, and did an admirable job mopping up messy spills on hard floors. It’s expensive, yes, but it’s one of the best robot vacuums that has ever roamed our floors, and we highly recommend it.

• Read the full story: DJI’s first foray into the pantheon of home cleaning

5. We experienced Sony RGB TV

We've been waiting for Sony's formal entry into RGB TV, and this week we got a first look at what the TV giant has dubbed True RGB. It's an eye-catching name amongst the crowded RGB TV space, with Samsung, TCL, and Hisense all already taking up space.

Our early first impressions of Sony's True RGB TV tech proved good, though, with punchy colors, high brightness, and overall impressive visuals. Sony says its first consumer TV model with True RGB will launch in Spring 2026, and Sony's RGB TV tech is a three-diode system with one red, one green, and one blue, plus a new backlight driver controlled by Sony's unique mix.

As always, Sony will strive not to skew reality and, ideally, deliver visuals that match the creator's intent.

• Read the full story: I saw Sony’s True RGB TV tech in action

4. We poured one out for Samsung Messages

We said goodbye to Samsung Messages this week, as the South Korean tech brand announced the service is shutting down in July.

The announcement came with a suggestion to switch to Google Messages, but many folks are frustrated by the change.

There's no workaround to keep access to Samsung Messages, but if you don’t like Google Messages, there are at least alternative apps you could use, including Textra SMS and Handcent Next SMS messenger.

• Read the full story: Samsung Galaxy owners rebel against being forced to switch to Google Messages

3. Amazon stopped support for some Kindles

As of May 20, Amazon will be pulling the plug on support for Kindles and Fire tablet models released before 2012. However, most of the affected devices are still widely used today (mainly the Kindle 3, Kindle 4, and the first generation Kindle Paperwhite), and it’s rubbed keen e-readers the wrong way.

When the day comes, you’ll still be able to read content that’s already downloaded on your device, but you won’t be able to purchase or download new books after the date has passed. For most users, the simplicity of a Kindle is what has kept them glued to older models instead of upgrading to Amazon’s more advanced, and therefore pricier, models. Besides, this isn’t stopping users from sideloading new books as a workaround — but how long will it be until Amazon clamps down on this, too?

• Read the full story: Amazon is pulling the plug on old Kindle devices

2. NASA shared its otherworldly iPhone snaps

The Artemis II mission has been wowing us, mere earthlings, this week with its deep-space adventures — and that included shooting what are probably the best iPhone and GoPro photos ever taken.

Two of these, showing astronauts Christina Koch and Reid Wiseman looking back towards their home planet, were shot using the iPhone 17 Pro Max’s selfie camera, no less. And outside the ship, a 12-year-old GoPro captured a mind-blowing photo of a lunar eclipse from the far side of the moon.

Our camera roll looks decidedly underwhelming by comparison. Still, it was fascinating to see NASA using some of the same dusty old camera tech – including the decade-old Nikon D5 DSLR – that we’ve been eyeing up in secondhand stores.

• Read the full story: The first iPhone 17 Pro Max photos sent back from the Artemis II mission really are out of this world

1. Mac stock ran low

Mac Mini, Mac Studio, and MacBook Neo stock has been running low across various Apple stores, and problems may persist.

You could be waiting several weeks, or even months in some cases, to receive your Mac Mini or Studio order, depending on your configuration. While Apple hasn't confirmed the rumors, many suspect the ongoing RAM crisis is to blame.

As for the MacBook Neo, the delays are instead being blamed on a weirder source: a lack of iPhone 16 Pro chips. The theory is that these chips were chosen because Apple had a stockpile of A18 Pros with a faulty CPU core; the five-core chips wouldn't work for phones but could be repurposed into Neo chips. However, the incredible popularity of the Neo may have taken Apple by surprise, leading to shortages.

• Read the full story: Mac shortages hit, and the RAM crisis is probably to blame

Just a quick PSA, folks. The Amazon Big Spring Sale is finally drawing to a close tonight, so it could be your last chance to get the fantastic DJI Mini 4K drone for a record-low price of just $269 (was $389).

Today's best deal is for the mid-tier battery combo, which includes a handy shoulder bag and two spare batteries for extra flight time. You can opt for the standalone drone for just $209 (was $299), but that's been cheaper on a few occasions — and we'd recommend the combo anyway, since it's better value than buying extra batteries separately.

As an overview, the DJI Mini 4K is rated as our current best budget drone, and it's a fantastic entry point into the world of drones. Weighing just 249g, the Mini 4K is impressively compact, yet it's still capable of sharp 4K video and a control range of up to 10km. Its Level 5 wind resistance and three-axis gimbal provide steady footage, and the extra batteries here will deliver up to 62-minutes of flight time.

The only downside we can think of at this price is that this model doesn't include obstacle avoidance, so it’s worth flying with a bit of extra care. With that said, it's still very beginner-friendly thanks to the DJI Fly app, which offers features like one-tap takeoff and automatic return-to-home.

DJI Mini 4K drone deal at Amazon

• See more: check out all of today's drone deals at Amazon

A great choice for beginners this week

The DJI Mini 4K is still a great choice — even after the 2025 ban on new drones imported from overseas. Because it's a slightly older model, it's still widely stocked at several retailers. The only restriction here is that the DJI app is no longer supported on Google Play, so you'll need to visit the DJI website directly to download it.

Otherwise, you're pretty much good to go with the DJI Mini 4K. Since it's under the 249-gram breakpoint for federal registration, you can fly the drone right out of the box without needing to register it anywhere. Of course, make sure you're still up to speed with any local restrictions and fly responsibly!

For more information, check out our full DJI 4K Mini review for a detailed breakdown of this model, including sample pictures and footage from our testing.

• Fresh images and video of the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 appear
• It looks as though the camera will launch on April 20
• Several upgrades are expected, including longer battery life

We've seen plenty of leaks around the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 in recent weeks, and a fresh batch of unverified images of the vlogging camera hit the web — as well as hints that the device is going to go on sale on Monday, April 20.

Colombian retailer DroneTech has posted pictures and video of the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 to its social media channels (via Notebookcheck), as well as hinting at that date. While we can't confirm the posts actually show the camera, it looks to be the real thing.

The descriptions along with the images and video (via Google Translate) mention high quality video, intelligent stabilization, and a Creator Combo — matching the name of one of the bundles that we got with the DJI Osmo Pocket 3.

Have a read through our DJI Osmo Pocket 3 review, and you'll see we were very impressed with the current model: we described it as a "class-leading 4K camera" that's able to deliver "amazing video quality and beautiful slow-motion scenes".

Lights, camera, action

We're hoping to see a global launch for the DJI Osmo Pocket 4: while new DJI products are now banned in the US, the indications are that this camera received regulatory approval early enough that it can still go on sale.

The upgrades we're expecting are a brighter screen, more battery life between charges, and a slight tweak to the design. Improvements in terms of video quality are expected too, though the details of these improvements aren't yet clear.

Thanks to previous leaks we've also seen some of the accessories that are going to come along with the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 — including an LED light that you can fit on top of the camera — and multiple bundle options will again be offered.

There has also been talk of a Pro version of the device that comes with an extra camera, and no doubt a more expensive price tag. We haven't heard any rumors on pricing, but the DJI Osmo Pocket originally launched for $519 / £489 / AU$849.

This week, we saw major decisions that could rock the tech world, as social media was called addictive in a landmark trial, and the US banned foreign Wi-Fi routers.

To catch up on this, as well as the latest reviews and other essential tech news stories, scroll down for our full ICYMI recap of the week.

When you’re done here, be sure also to read our experts’ picks for the seven new movies and TV shows to watch this weekend.

1. Social media declared addictive

On Wednesday, a Los Angeles jury found that Meta and Google are liable for designing products that are deliberately addictive, a case that could change social media forever. The plaintiff, a woman known only as KGM, testified that "she became addicted to YouTube at age six and Instagram at nine", leading to body image issues and self-harm.

KGM's lawyers, in their closing remarks, said: “How do you make a child never put down the phone? That’s called the engineering of addiction." We pinpointed three persuasive tricks social media companies use to keep users glued to their screens, and exactly how the infinite-scroll loop hijacks children's still-developing brains — all according to the latest scientific research.

• Read the full story: 'The 'engineering of addiction' explained

2. We heard the Sonos Play in all of its glory

We’ve spent a few weeks testing the Sonos Play speaker, and it’s a real return to form for Sonos. Not because it’s the best-sounding speaker in the world (though it’s really impressive for something that size) or because it has every feature imaginable (though it offers more options than basically anything else in its price range) — but because it gets back to what Sonos was known for: speakers so convenient that you’ll listen to more music than ever.

It’s a battery-powered portable speaker that’s compact and light enough to grab and take around with you, but that’s also powerful and high-quality enough to use as your main home wireless speaker in a room. That means it’s always grabbable at a moment's notice, so we found ourselves using it more often, in more places, than with other portable speakers.

The great, durable design with a charging cradle is what helps cement this as maybe the ideal do-anything wireless speaker for the home, though it’s not cheap.

• Read the full story: I spent 3 weeks testing the Sonos Play, and I love it

3. We flew the DJI 360 drone

We’ve tested the DJI Avata 360, and our verdict is in: it’s the 360 drone to beat. It’s more agile and versatile than the previous frontrunner, the Antigravity A1, and boasts excellent 10-bit image quality — did we mention it’s more affordable too?

Yes, other DJI drones offer better pure image quality, and 360 footage requires post-production editing. Still, as an all-rounder that's both a capable 360 camera and a thrilling FPV flyer, the Avata 360 delivers brilliantly.

• Read the full review: I had an absolute blast flying the DJI Avata 360

4. US banned non-American routers

In this week’s rendition of what weird tech law the Trump administration will dump on us, it just banned new non-US-made Wi-Fi routers — meaning they’ll be banned unless they’re made in the States.

According to the FCC, routers manufactured outside the US represent both a "supply chain vulnerability" and a "severe cybersecurity risk". Essentially, they fear these foreign routers could be used to spy on US citizens.

While this isn’t the most illogical move, the big trouble is that finding American-made routers isn’t easy, and all of the best we’ve tested are made outside the country — meaning a new router you ‘upgrade’ to could in fact be a downgrade.

• Read the full story: The US just banned new routers that aren't made in America

5. OpenAI killed Sora

Sora, we barely knew ya. Just six months after launching what might be the world’s first social AI app and just 18 months after launching the Sora generative video model into the world, OpenAI pulled the plug.

Sora, as a platform and app, seems to be no more.

OpenAI announced the news in a social post and has since offered little explanation. We have some guesses, like the skyrocketing costs of supporting all that video generation, the shrinking interest in the app, or maybe OpenAI’s preparation for going public. It’s something they might need to do since Disney also just pulled out of a $1B deal with the AI company.

• Read the full story: Is this the start of a mini AI bubble collapse?

6. iOS 26.4 sparked a controversy

iOS updates usually deliver fun new treats for iPhone fans, but this week, iOS 26.4 came with a less welcome gift — age verification checks for UK users.

When you install the update, you have to prove you’re over 18, and that’s caused problems for many who don’t have a driving license or a credit card to scan. The buggy process and concerns around the security of age verification checks have also doused this already hot topic with extra gasoline.

If you’re having iOS 26.4 issues, we’ve outlined some potential fixes in our guide below. This controversy is likely only just getting started, but maybe WWDC 2026 (also announced this week for June 8) will help give us some answers.

Still, to put this is furore in context, it isn't quite on the scale of the Apple's biggest tech crimes — check out our new, definitive list of the worst Apple gadgets ever, voted for you by you.

• Read the full story: iOS 26.4 age verification is proving a disaster for some users

7. Netflix hiked prices

It’s that time of year again! We’re not talking about the changing of the seasons, no, of course, it’s Netflix hiking prices. Yippee…

The world's biggest streaming service has quietly announced that the Standard with ads tier is going up by $1 to $8.99, while both ad-free tiers, Standard and Premium, are going up by $2 to $19.99 and $26.99, respectively.

What’s more, Netflix’s extra member fee will rise from $7.99 to $9.99 — yikes!

It’s not clear if this change will launch outside the US anytime soon, but you can always count on three things in life: death, taxes, and Netflix price hikes.

• Read more: The cost of Netflix has just gone up in the US again

DJI Avata 360: one-minute review

Antigravity launched the world's first 360 camera drone in 2025, but now drone market-leader DJI has arrived with its own spin on the concept – and it's a quite different beast from the somewhat pedestrian Antigravity A1.

The clue's in the name: the DJI Avata 360 is not only a 360 drone but also an Avata drone — the latest model in DJI's line of sporty FPV flyers. If the A1 is a Fiat 500 (tiny, eye-catching, innovative, but not especially nippy), the Avata 360 is a VW Golf GTI – unassuming at first glance and much heavier, but faster, more responsive and more practical, yet (and here's where my automobile analogy breaks down) somehow cheaper too.

The Avata 360 looks a lot like the DJI Avata 2, or perhaps a larger DJI Neo 2, albeit with one obvious difference: its front-mounted camera has two lenses rather than one. Arranged on opposite faces of the gimbal, these record everything surrounding the drone (while using software to seamlessly unify the footage and remove any trace of the drone itself), allowing the user to re-frame footage in post-production using DJI's mobile or desktop apps.

I'll get more into how the 360 editing works in the full review below, but for now I'll just say that anyone who's used 360 cameras in the past will have little trouble creating some very impressive clips with this aerial version.

Where the Avata 360 differs from (and beats, in my view) the A1 is that, firstly, it offers a choice to fly it using a traditional twin-stick controller or the goggles-and-motion-controller FPV method. The A1 only supports the latter, and that means I need to bring a buddy along to act as spotter every time I fly it. If I'm on my own, I can't use the A1 at all (not legally, anyway), whereas I have the option to fly the Avata 360 using a RC 2 controller — no spotter required.

And in FPV mode I simply found the Avata 360 more enjoyable to fly than the A1: the design means it's faster, more agile and more responsive, even in high coastal winds, and switching it to single-camera mode (which uses one front-facing camera instead of the 360 setup, and records 4K 60fps footage) almost transforms it into an Avata 2.

Overall, the DJI Avata 360 feels like a more well-rounded (no pun intended) and flexible 360 drone than the A1, and at a more affordable price to boot.

DJI Avata 360: price and release date

• Launched on March 26 2026
• Significantly cheaper than the Antigravity A1 360 drone
• Available in four kits, including two Fly More Combos

DJI launched the Avata 360 on March 26 2026, with four different packages available. If you already own some form of compatible controller, you can buy the drone and a single battery for just £409 / AU$799. Packaged with DJI's excellent RC 2 touchscreen and twin-stick controller, it's £639 / AU$1,159.

Note: I haven't included US dollar pricing here, and you may have guessed the reason; DJI's troubles in the US are well documented elsewhere on TechRadar. Suffice to say this drone will not be officially launching in the States, which is a great shame.

There are also two Fly More Combo bundles, both priced at £829 / AU$1,619, each of which includes a nice bunch of extras. Both include the drone, three batteries, a charging cradle (able to recharge all three batteries simultaneously, with support for 100W and 65W fast charging), a set of spare propellers, a folding take-off and landing pad (very useful when launching from tricky terrain or long grass, and something I've not seen included in a Fly More Combo before), and a sturdy, sectioned sling bag to keep everything in. But one of the Fly More Combos includes the RC 2 controller, and the other the DJI Goggles N3 and RC Motion 3. So you're immediately set up for either standard or FPV flight.

This is a really affordable drone, especially when compared to the competition. Even with recent discounts, the Antigravity A1 Standard Combo (which includes the drone plus Vision goggles, a Grip controller, drone carry case and an extra set of propellers) costs over £1,000.

• Price score: 5/5

DJI Avata 360: specs

DJI Avata 360: Design and build quality

• Flat, non-folding design
• Labelled UK1 / C1 class, weighing around 455g
• Choice between RC 2 or Goggles/RC Motion 3 control

Rather than a folding design, DJI has opted for the same flat quadcopter shape it's recently used for the Avata 2, Neo and Neo 2. This means it's ready to go in moments (just pull off the included camera cover, if you're using it, and double tap the power button) and also that there are built-in prop guards to help protect the propellers from damage during collisions.

The Avata 360 isn't a super-lightweight drone; DJI claims it's around 455g, but my digital scales showed it to weigh 469g – well over the old sub-250g legal sweet spot. However, thanks to recent changes to UK law, this is no longer the issue it once was. This is the first drone I've seen that's labelled 'UK1' class, meaning that under new CAA guidelines it can be flown over uninvolved people (but not crowds) and closer than 50m to people horizontally. It can also be flown in residential, recreational, commercial and industrial areas. So, that's a good thing – it means I didn't have to venture to the middle of nowhere to test it properly.

It also means DJI hasn't had to make build-quality compromises to hit that magical sub-250g weight. The Avata 360 feels solid, sturdy, and likely to survive minor collisions without catastrophic damage, which isn't something I would say about the dainty, sub-250g Antigravity A1.

With no extended landing gear or feet, the drone doesn't have much clearance from the ground when landing or taking off, so it's important to launch and land on a flat, even surface in order to avoid potential damage. I found the folding orange landing pad including with the Fly More Combos very useful during testing, as landing even on short grass could cause issues.

The Avata 360 has a USB-C port on its side for file transfer and direct recharging, alongside a microSD slot for adding extra storage. That's optional, though, because there's a reasonable 42GB of internal storage built-in. Batteries slot straight into the back and come with the customary four-LED indicator to provide at-a-glance info on remaining power.

Control-wise, you have the choice between using a standard stick controller or a set of FPV goggles and a motion controller. In testing, I used the DJI RC 2 (it's also compatible with the RC-N2 and RC-N3, according to DJI) as my standard controller, and the DJI Goggles N3 paired with a DJI RC Motion 3 (you could also use the Goggles 3 or FPV Remote Controller 3) as my FPV setup, and found both to be excellent – they're sturdily built and comfortable to use. The Goggles N3 don't have a fancy exterior display like Antigravity's do, but on the plus side I can wear them with my glasses on, which I couldn't do on the Antigravity Goggles.

Finally, DJI has designed the Avata 360's camera lenses to be user-replaceable, should they get scratched, during flight or otherwise. The lenses do protrude a little, which does make them more susceptible to contact than most drone cameras, so this feels like a good move from the company.

• Design score: 5/5

DJI Avata 360: Features and flight performance

• Omnidirectional vision system with front-facing LiDAR and down-facing infrared sensors
• 18m/s maximum speed and Level 5 wind resistance
• Up to 22 minutes of flight time per battery

Like most DJI drones, the Avata 360 is an assured and safety-conscious flyer. It comes with full omnidirectional obstacle avoidance, using a combination of vision, LiDAR and infrared sensors to spot hazards in all directions, plus a reliable return-to-home mode and respectable battery life of up to 22 minutes' flight time (I would put the real-world use closer to 15 minutes, based on my testing, but much will depend on environmental factors – your mileage may vary, as they say).

In the air, it's a nimbler and nippier drone than the Antigravity A1. I found it performed very responsively even in windy conditions, and in Sport Mode (which disables the safety sensors), it's capable of hitting speeds of up to 18m/s (around 40mph). The low-latency O4+ video transmission system is remarkably stable, which helps keep the drone under control at all times. While testing, I never experienced a single loss of signal or even a noticeable reduction in the live-view quality.

As mentioned, at launch there are two ways to fly the Avata 360: using a standard twin-stick controller or with an FPV headset and motion controller. I love the fact that DJI has given buyers a choice — which for me is one of the main advantages this drone has over its competitor the Antigravity A1, which only offers goggles- and motion controller-based flight. With the Avata 360, a twin-stick controller is perfect for solo trips, as it doesn't require a spotter and the controls are identical to those of standard camera drones like the DJI Mini 5 Pro or Air 3S. It's easy to pick up and fly immediately, with no need to master the intricacies of motion controllers or strap on a set of goggles.

• Flight performance score: 5/5

DJI Avata 360: Image and video quality

• Paired 1/1.1-inch sensors offer up to 8K 60fps videos and 120MP photos
• Single-camera mode also available for traditional FPV video capture
• 10-bit video and flat D-log M color profile supported

The Avata 360 is equipped with two 1/1.1-inch sensors paired with ultra-wide lenses, which work in tandem to capture everything around it in up to 8K resolution at 60fps. That beats the Antigravity on specs alone (it captures 8K, but only up to 30fps), but the larger sensor size and higher bitrate also make the general image quality higher.

With support for 10-bit video and the flat D-log M color profile, this means the Avata 360 offers excellent video for a 360 drone. It won't trouble the DJI Air 3S or DJI Mavic 4 Pro when it comes to real pro-quality aerial footage, but the Avata 360 can really hold its own in terms of detail and dynamic range.

Once you've captured your 360 footage, it can be reframed using one of DJI's apps. I edited videos on both the DJI Fly mobile app and the DJI Studio desktop app, and both work well and in much the same way. You can choose your desired viewpoint, then save it as a keyframe, and the app will automatically, and smoothly, transition from one keyframe to the next. You can then export the video, with 8K 360 recording resulting in final videos of up to 4K resolution.

For those who don't want to reframe, there's single-lens mode. This records 4K 60fps footage using only a single forward-facing lens, which is delivered as a standard 'flat' video that can't be reframed after the fact. It's akin to recording a video on any of DJI's other camera drones, really — what you see is what you get.

It's also possible to snap 120MP panoramic 360 photos, which can then be edited into short videos or cropped and reframed much like a 360 video. I personally rarely felt the need to take a still shot while reviewing, as video is where the Avata 360 really shines in my opinion, but the feature is there should you need it.

Overall, I'm highly impressed by the Avata 360's camera performance. The base quality is higher than that of its only true rival, the Antigravity A1, and its 360 editing is just as good.

• Image and video quality score: 5/5

DJI Avata 360: testing scorecard

Should I buy the DJI Avata 360?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

DJI Avata 360: also consider

How I tested the DJI Avata 360

• All flight modes and control methods tested
• Photos and videos captured
• Tracking and safety features tested

DJI sent me an Avata 360 a couple of weeks before its official launch, along with an RC 2 controller, an RC Motion 3 grip controller and a Goggles N3 headset. That meant I had the time to fly it in a range of locations and using both a traditional controller and an FPV setup. I did test the drone in some windy conditions at times, but in general flew it in fine weather and good light — aside from the very foggy day you see in one of the sample videos above.

I flew in every available flight mode for both twin-stick and FPV motion flying, tested the drone's subject-tracking capabilities and how capable it was of detecting and avoiding obstacles.

Once I had recorded footage and captured still photos, I later transferred it from the drone's internal storage to my iPhone and computer for editing and reframing, for which I used the DJI Mimo and DJI Studio apps. I also exported reframed footage from DJI Studio to further tweak in DaVinci Resolve Studio, resulting in the sample videos and photos you see above.

• First reviewed: March 2026
• Read more about how we test

• Pentagon places large order for Skydio X10D drones
• X10D has been used to identify targets in Ukraine war
• DJI ban means US government departments must look elsewhere

The Pentagon just went from "we'd like to order some drones" to "here's $52 million" in 72 hours flat. That's less time than it takes most government departments to approve a new office coffee machine, but the US Army has just placed the largest single-vendor drone order in American military history: just under 3,000 Skydio X10D drones at around $17,300 (around £12,900 / AU$24,700) a pop.

The speed tells you everything you need to know about the urgency of this drone operation. Standard Pentagon procurement for contracts like this normally takes months, sometimes years.

Instead, the Army routed this through a commercial contracting vehicle specifically designed to cut the red tape, clearly deciding these drones needed to reach soldiers yesterday. With American forces currently engaged in conflict in Iran, there are obvious reasons to hurry — though there's no evidence that this is where they're headed.

As well as a big drone order, this is a loud statement that DJI, the company that makes basically every consumer drone worth owning, has been shut out of the American military market entirely.

And it's not necessarily because Skydio makes better drones – it's because DJI is Chinese, and in 2026, that's a huge no-no for the US government.

What kind of drones are they?

The X10D is a so-called "hunter" drone — a flying spotter that finds targets so that other, explosives-laden kamikaze drones can destroy them.

If you've been following the war in Ukraine, you'll probably have read about this hunter-killer combo. Cheap reconnaissance drones fly overhead looking for tanks, artillery positions or troop concentrations. Once they spot a suitable target, they relay coordinates to FPV racing drones equipped with munitions that finish the job.

It's devastatingly effective, horrifyingly efficient and has pretty much redefined modern warfare. The US Army just ordered 3,000 of the hunter half of that equation.

The X10D itself is clever tech. It navigates using six cameras (three on top, three below) that map terrain in real-time, which means it can fly and return home even when GPS is jammed.

The multiband radio hops frequencies to maintain connection in electromagnetically noisy battlefields. And the sensor suite is nothing to sniff at: 48MP telephoto, 50MP wide-angle, 64MP narrow camera, not to mention the first thermal system on a small military drone with 640 x 512 resolution. All that comes in a 2.1kg package that fits into a backpack and launches in 40 seconds.

Analysis: How Skydio lost to DJI, then won anyway

Skydio couldn't come close to beating DJI in the consumer market. Following the release of the Skydio 2+, which came with some genuinely impressive autonomous flight tech, it broke out the white flag and abandoned regular customers entirely. DJI's consumer alternatives were just too good, too cheap and too dominant.

Skydio instead switched its focus to a much more lucrative market. While DJI was busy selling Minis and Mavics to photographers and hobbyists, Skydio was cozying up to the US government. And in February 2022, that strategy paid off when the Army picked Skydio as the sole supplier for its Short Range Reconnaissance program in a five-year deal worth just under $100 million.

Why Skydio? Here's the simple reason: the Department of Defense, FBI, and Department of Homeland Security have all declared Chinese drones a national security threat.

Whether that's entirely fair or driven by genuine technical concerns is up for debate, but the practical result is that American government agencies can't buy DJI drones anymore, which means Skydio essentially won by default. It's like being the only restaurant in town open at 2am; you don't need to be the tastiest or the best value — just available.

And Skydio is very much available. The company's factory in California can churn out drones at impressive scale: despite each X10D going through 550 quality checkpoints, one can be assembled every nine minutes. Current production runs at over 1,000 units per month, which means this 3,000-drone order represents just three months of output.

What happens next is the real question. Spain's already signed an $18.7 million deal with Skydio, Norway's receiving its aircraft systems, and you can bet allied nations are watching this order very closely.

For DJI, which has dominated consumer and professional drone markets globally for years, the message couldn't be clearer: the American military has picked someone else, and with geopolitical tensions the way they are, that decision won't be getting reversed anytime soon.

The best drones capture great video, are easy to fly, and are rich in features. Having tested dozens of options, we're perfectly positioned to make informed recommendations, and right now, we'd recommend buying a DJI Mini 4K at Amazon for $209 (was $299).

This affordable, entry-level drone is our favorite budget option, and at a new record-low price at the retailer means that now is the perfect time to make the investment.

With 4K UHD resolution support, a 31-minute maximum flight time, and slow-mo capabilities, the DJI Mini 4K is more than capable of producing fantastic results right out of the box. Its budget-friendly credentials doesn't mean it's lacking quality - and, you don't require any further licenses to fly since it's under the 249g break point.

Today's best DJI drone deal

• See more: check out all of today's deals at Amazon

Not many of us have thousands of dollars to spend on a top-spec drone, but thankfully we don't need anywhere near that level of money set aside. The DJI Mini 4K is one of the best budget drones on the market. We were so impressed with it that we rated it 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Our cameras editor, Timothy Coleman, praises the excellent value and 4K video quality that beats rivals. We also love the 2x video support, Level 5 wind resistance and dynamic movements such as Helix, Circle and Boomerang. These are pro-level features without the high price tag.

It would be remiss of us to not point out that this drone doesn't feature object collision sensors or subject tracking. These features are nice to have but if you don't plan on shooting video in complex areas then the absence of these won't be a problem.

DJI produce a range of options, with our guide to the best DJI drones covering our top picks. If you're happy entertaining other brands such as HoverAir or Ryze, then head over to our best drones guide instead.

Rumors are swirling that a DJI Pocket 4 is on its way, but don't let the promise of a shiny new action cam distract you from what's available right now — the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is currently cheaper than ever. Although it's nearly three years old now, the Pocket 3 is still an extremely capable camera. With features like a portrait filming mode and a 2-inch screen that's ideal for viewing a live camera feed, the Pocket 3 has proven hugely popular with vloggers and content creators in particular.

In our DJI Osmo Pocket 3 review, our tester called it "class-leading", and highlighted the "amazing video quality and beautiful slow-motion scenes". It was awarded a near-perfect 4.5 stars. TechRadar's camera editor Tim Coleman thinks it's well worth considering, even with the Pocket 4 on the horizon, commenting: "For many solo vloggers it will serve their needs perfectly, and for a much lower price than the latest models."

Today's best DJI Osmo action cam deals

More DJI Osmo action cam deals

The Osmo Pocket 3 deals sit amongst a variety of excellent DJI action cam price drops available right now — there are also lowest-ever prices on the likes of the "seriously feature-packed" DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro and "fantastic" Osmo Action 4.

I've checked prices across leading retailers, and the best prices right now are at Amazon, but many options are available for only a few cents more at Best Buy. Typically, these cameras are sold in Essential, Standard, or Adventure Combos, with each bundle, respectively, including more accessories.

Shopping in the US? Here's the lowdown on the DJI action cam deals for you.

When is a quiet week in tech not a quiet week in tech? How about right now. Because while this week lacked the huge launches of the previous one, it was still packed with big stories and impressive new tech.

For starters, we delivered our expert verdicts on the Apple devices that were revealed last week, and the MacBook Neo in particular blew us away. We also sat down for a long chat with Sonos' CEO as the audio giant launched two new speakers, and delivered our Google Pixel 10a review.

In fact, so much happened this week that we didn't even have space to include the two massive Gemini-powered features coming to Google Maps, so scroll down for your full catch-up and when you’re finished here be sure to read our picks for the seven new movies and TV shows you need to watch this weekend.

7. DJI prepared the Avata 360 for liftoff

DJI's first 360-degree drone has long been rumored, and this week it finally broke cover. And though we don't know everything about it yet, we do know its name, launch date, and one core spec.

The Avata 360, as it will be known, will be equipped with 8K video recording and will launch on March 26. Further specs, and the price, are yet to be revealed, but we're already getting pretty excited about it.

It will compete against the excellent Antigravity A1, which debuted last year as the world’s first true 360-degree flying camera, but the Avata 360 will have an advantage over that rival in that it will settle into an already formidable DJI drone ecosystem. Watch this space for more info ahead of that launch date.

• Read more: DJI’s Avata 360 will land this month — here’s what we know about DJI’s first 360 drone, and 3 reasons I’m psyched for its arrival

6. HBO started its global password crackdown

HBO Max’s password crackdown is going global according to the company's CEO and president of global streaming, JB Perrette.

That means you may no longer be able to share an account with another HBO max user, unless you pay an extra member fee — though that option is currently only available in the US.

However, how much longer will HBO Max even be around? HBO Max's future currently depends on whether regulators approve the acquisition of its parent company, Warner Bros. Discovery, by Paramount Skydance. According to at least one prominent media analyst, if that goes ahead then HBO Max could be shut down by the end of 2027.

• Read the full story: HBO Max is launching a global password-sharing crackdown

5. Apple prepared its 50th anniversary celebrations

Apple will turn 50 in a couple of weeks, and Tim Cook has been teasing what the tech giant has planned to celebrate the occasion.

"In the coming weeks, Apple and its global community will celebrate the company’s 50th anniversary, recognizing the creativity, innovation, and impact that people around the world have made possible with Apple technology," said Cook, before ending with a note to fans that "If you’ve taught us anything, it’s that the people crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do.”

So, does that mean we should prepare for a crazy launch? The new MacBook Neo was impressive (see more on that below), but perhaps the company has something folded up its sleeve for April 1?

• Read the full story: Apple announces major anniversary celebrations

4. We tested Google's budget Pixel

Even amongst the flashiest, most expensive tech there's a place for a budget champion, and in the Android world the Google Pixel 10a is a strong contender for that title.

Our Managing Editor Jacob Krol put it through its paces over the past week or so, and as his review states, "it proves you don’t need big upgrades to make a great phone."

So, while it doesn’t get a new processor or upgraded camera hardware this year — instead sticking with the Tensor G4 and the same dual-camera system as the Pixel 9a — it nails the basics: a comfortable design, strong battery life, bright display, and a dependable camera, all for a low price of $499 / £499 / AU$849.

• Read more: Google’s Pixel 10a review: still one of the best budget options

3. And we tested Apple’s iPhone 17e too

Sticking in the world of budget smartphones, we also reviewed Apple’s iPhone 17e, and it too proved its worth as an affordable winner.

No, it doesn’t reinvent Apple’s budget iPhone approach, but it does bring some meaningful refinements to the iPhone 16e thanks to its A19 chip, double the starting storage at 256GB, and the long-awaited addition of MagSafe — all for the same starting price as the previous model.

The single rear camera will be a let down if you love taking snaps, and the display isn’t as crisp as the iPhone 17’s, but if you’re after an affordable iPhone there isn’t a better option based on our tests.

• Read the full review: I tested the iPhone 17e, and it's an even better budget iPhone

2. The MacBook Neo blew us away

The Apple MacBook Neo doesn’t sound like it should work. It runs on an iPhone chip, boasts just 8GB of unified memory, and includes ancient USB 2.0 technology. Yet the Neo manages to deliver an excellent MacBook experience — there’s zero macOS compromises, and it’s a far more capable machine than its budget counterparts running Windows 11 and ChromeOS.

Why? Well for a start the performance is solid. Yes, you’ll want to stick to Apple’s own apps over third-party alternatives and keep multi-tasking to a low level, but you can get a good level of utility out of this machine.

Then there’s the design, which is simply beautiful, with the Neo’s color being showcased across its aluminum shell, Magic keyboard, and even in macOS elements — plus the display is stunning.

And then there's the price. At $599 / £599 / AU$899 it stretches the definition of budget a little, but compared to other MacBooks — or the Windows competition — it's a steal.

• Read more: Apple MacBook Neo review: the best budget laptop you can buy

1. Sonos gave us two new speakers — and some explanations

Sonos has not had a great time of it of late, with its disastrous and well-documented app relaunch leading to much criticism and, eventually, the replacement of its CEO in January 2025.

That was then and this is now, though, and this week Sonos released not one but two new speakers in the form of the Sonos Play and Sonos Era 100 SL. And, its current CEO Tom Conrad was eager to sit down with us and explain what went wrong in 2024, what its strategy is for the future, and why we should be excited about the new devices.

You can read our Managing Editor of Home Tech Matt Bolton's full interview with Conrad here, and also check out Conrad's insights into what went wrong with the Sonos app upgrade. But for now, let's focus on the speakers.

The Sonos Era 100 SL is a new, more affordable version of the existing Era 100, but without microphones; so, it lacks the smart home functions of the original, but comes at a much cheaper price.

More interesting still, though, is the Sonos Play. This new portable speaker sits between the Roam and Move models in terms of price and characteristics, and Conrad thinks it might be the “Goldilocks” speaker. And we think he might just be right.

• Read the full story: Sonos launches a new portable Play speaker and a cheaper Era 100

• DJI teases its 'flagship' Avata 360 drone
• It will shoot 8K 360 degree video
• Launch is set for March 26 at 5am PT / 8am ET / 12pm GMT / 10pm AEST

After months of rumors and speculation, the DJI Avata 360 is official, after DJI shared the clearest teaser of them all — revealing the drone's name, core specs, and launch date.

The Avata 360 is set to be DJI's first-ever 360-degree drone, equipped with 8K video recording. It'll take on the excellent Antigravity A1, which was the world's first true 360-degree drone.

'Above It All, See It All' says the trailer, confirming the 'flagship' Avata 360's upcoming unveil on March 26 at 5am PT / 8am ET / 12pm GMT / 10pm AEST, which is a little over two weeks to go as I type these words.

There's little else to go on from the teaser. Still, I'm excited about the Avata 360, especially after all the recent rumors. For example, I've seen leaked pictures and even a mysterious DJI teaser last week that contained aerial footage, including the tiny planet effect made with a 360-degree camera.

Why the Avata 360 excites me

I've personally tested the Antigravity A1, which is the only true 360-degree consumer drone. It's an excellent first 8K drone from the Insta360-incubated start up, that is further improving with firmware updates. However, it's about to be joined by the Avata 360.

DJI's Avata 360 has a leg up in that it settles into an already formidable DJI drone ecosystem, with established accessories including motion controllers, goggles, and batteries.

And rather than being a 360 drone first and foremost, it looks more versatile, like one of DJI's FPV drones from the Avata line, which also shoots 360-degree video (see some clips below, which we can only assume are shot with the Avata 360).

That's if previous leaks are anything to go by. One such rumor suggests that one trick up the Avata 360's sleeve will be a single lens mode, meaning the gimbal-mounted camera unit can rotate from a 360 degree mode — that's twin lenses with one pointing directly up and the other directly down for complete coverage — to a single lens mode with the camera pointing straight forward, much like in the Avata 2.

I would also expect the Avata 360's list price to sit a little lower than the Antigravity A1's, because DJI is typically aggressive with its pricing. And there could be good news for DJI fans in the US. Rumors suggest the Avata 360 could be a DJI product that was registered before the December 2025 cut-off for FCC approval, meaning it could hit stores in the US. Many will hope that's the case, and we'll find out soon enough on March 26.

The Osmo Action 4 isn't the latest DJI action camera, but that means you can pick up this highly-rated GoPro alternative for half the price of the latest model. And now, thanks to a new deal, you can snap up the Osmo Action 4 at Amazon for £169 (was £199) — the lowest price we've seen since Black Friday.

Released in August 2023, the Osmo Action 4 still boasts a fantastic set of specs. You've got a 1/1.3-inch sensor, 10-bit D-Log M colour performance, and superb low-light capabilities — all of which combine to provide superb video quality.

The popular action camera has only been £10 cheaper, which makes this one of the best deals we've ever seen. And if you're looking for a camera to capture your spring and summer adventures, then this Osmo Action is an absolute bargain.

Today's best DJI action camera deal

Four out of five stars was what we gave this action camera. You can read why in our full DJI Osmo Action 4 review, but if you're strapped for time, let me give you the rundown.

The 1/1.3-inch sensor delivers improved 10-bit 4K video quality and a D-Log colour profile. These qualities elevate image output and make it possible to perform extensive colour corrections. The larger sensor is also brilliant in low light, picking up more detail and with less noise.

Another standout feature of the Osmo Action 4 is the magnetic mounting system that enables mounts to be swapped out in a matter of seconds. Our reviewer called them "hassle-free mounts" and said they are superior to the mounting systems on many alternative models.

If you want the latest technology, then this deal won't be for you. Instead, head over to our best action cameras buying guide, where you can quickly narrow down your best options.

• DJI officially teases a new drone launch, coming soon
• Based on the teaser video, it's likely to be the rumored DJI Avata 360
• A Pro version of the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 has leaked too

DJI has confirmed that another drone launch is imminent, and based on the video it's included in the launch teaser, it looks very much like it'll be the rumored DJI Avata 360 — while the leaks around DJI's next vlogging camera have taken another twist.

The drone teaser comes straight from the @DJIGlobal account on X, which means we're hopeful of a global launch for the upcoming drone. Despite new DJI products now being banned in the US, it's possible that DJI was able to get regulatory approval before the ban came into force in December.

And given the shots in the teaser video — including a classic 'tiny planet' shot — it's almost certain that this is a drone with 360-degree imaging skills, most likely the rumored DJI Avata 360, though it's not mentioned by name.

The 360-degree drone has leaked extensively over the last few weeks, and is rumored to be coming with a single-lens mode too, that should help it stand out from its main rival, the Antigravity A1.

Only a few days ago, Notebookcheck reported on hands-on footage of the DJI Avata 360 appearing online, so it seems a launch is now very close. DJI hasn't given us a date or a time, but we should get an official reveal any day now.

The Pocket goes Pro

In the meantime, there are yet more leaks around the DJI Osmo Pocket vlogging camera. Veteran tipster Igor Bogdanov has posted some new shots purportedly showing off the device — and they give us our first look at a potential Pro model.

Most previous leaks around this camera have shown off a device very much like the current DJI Osmo Pocket 3 in terms of its design, albeit with a couple of extra console buttons. However, this new Pro leak shows the addition of an extra camera on top, together with a protective hood.

While there had been talk of a dual-camera setup in earlier rumors, the most recent leaks just mentioned one standard model. It would seem that when this next generation of DJI's pocket vlogging camera does break cover, there'll be two models to choose between — with the Pro edition no doubt coming with a higher price tag.

Like the DJI Avata 360, it's plausible that the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 was registered just in time to avoid being banned in the US. As soon as DJI makes either of these products official, we will of course let you know.

• Another DJI vlogging camera is on the way
• The quick start guide for the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 has appeared
• We're expecting a launch very soon now

Leaks around the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 vlogging camera have been coming thick and fast recently, and the latest information to appear online about the device comes in the form of a quick start guide to using it.

The pamphlet, posted by well-known tipster Igor Bogdanov, shows off the updated design of the camera – including two extra buttons – while also revealing the name of one of the bundles the gadget will be available in: the Creator Combo.

It looks as though the extra buttons that have been spotted in previous leaks are going to control zoom and timer settings. Elsewhere in the quick start guide we can see how the device screen rotates, how the camera gimbal works, and how a tripod gets attached.

This is more evidence that the camera must be about to launch officially – and given how impressed we were with what the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 had to offer, our expectations are high when it comes to what DJI might have put together here.

Upgrades on the way

From what we've heard so far, it sounds as though the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 is going to come with a brighter screen and longer battery life compared to its predecessor – though of course none of this is confirmed until DJI makes it official.

There's also been a full hands-on video leak of the camera in action, so at this stage there's not a whole lot left for DJI to reveal. One remaining question is pricing: the Pocket 3 launched for $519 / £489 / AU$849 when it made its debut back in 2023.

That was for the standard bundle with just the basics, and as this latest leak shows, the Pocket 4 will be available in a variety of bundle packs. You'll be able to pick the one that best fits your budget and filming needs.

While a ban on new DJI products in the US remains in place, there are indications that DJI might have registered this camera with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the US early enough for it to still be launched in that country.

• One user accidentally gained access to thousands of DJI Romo vacuums worldwide
• Sensitive data, including floor plans and live video feeds, was exposed online
• Encryption of communications was intact, yet server storage remained completely unprotected

A hobbyist discovered that his DJI Romo vacuum unintentionally allowed access to thousands of other devices.

Sammy Azdoufal, an AI strategist, used reverse engineering to understand how the Romo communicated with DJI servers. He did not hack into DJI systems or bypass encryption, and he did not use brute force or other illicit methods.

He was attempting to control his own robot using a PlayStation controller when the protocol returned private tokens for additional vacuums, including more than 6,700 devices located across multiple regions, including the United States, Europe, and China.

Discovery and technical details

The core problem was that device data was stored in plain text on the server, which allowed anyone who gained access to read floor plans, live video feeds, and microphone input.

The encryption protecting communications was not flawed, yet the data storage exposed sensitive information to anyone with access.

Azdoufal immediately reported the vulnerability to DJI, and the company issued updates to address several problems without requiring user intervention.

Some vulnerabilities remain, including the ability to stream video without a security PIN and another undisclosed issue because of its severity.

These remaining problems indicate that server-side data storage and access control still need attention.

Unfortunately, this is not an isolated case — an engineer previously discovered that his iLife A11 smart vacuum continuously sent logs and telemetry back to the manufacturer.

When he blocked reporting through his network, the company remotely disabled the device.

Using technical adjustments, he restored local functionality, proving that cloud connectivity is not strictly necessary for proper device operation.

Many consumers purchase smart devices for convenience, but incidents like these show potential risks when ordinary users can accidentally access private data.

Live video, floor plans, and other information could be exposed if attackers exploit similar vulnerabilities.

Using firewall software, careful monitoring, and endpoint protection for network activity can reduce exposure, and broader use of AI tools could also help identify unusual patterns, although this does not guarantee detection.

Users should be aware that even minor misconfigurations or design flaws can create major privacy risks.

The case of the DJI Romo vacuums indicates that IoT devices may prioritize convenience over strong data protection - as while this discovery was accidental and responsibly reported, the underlying design leaves sensitive personal information vulnerable.

This raises valid concerns about both unintended access and potential targeted attacks in the future.

Via Tom's Hardware

• DJI has filed a petition with the US Supreme Court
• It claims the recent FCC ban on its products is unlawful
• New DJI products can no longer be launched in the US

A ban on new DJI products in the US kicked in last December, but the issue isn't closed yet: DJI has taken its case to the US Supreme Court, arguing that government authorities haven't actually found any evidence of security issues.

The ban came into force almost by default – not through any new discoveries about DJI, but because a security audit of the Chinese company wasn't carried out in advance of a December 23 deadline imposed by the US Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Without getting fresh security clearance, DJI was automatically shunted to the FCC's Covered Entity List, a record of companies believed to pose "an unacceptable risk" to national security (it's the same list that Huawei is on). That course of events is unconstitutional and unlawful, DJI argues.

"Despite repeated efforts to engage with the government, DJI has never been given the chance to provide information to address or refute any concerns," the company said in a statement to the press. "These procedural and substantive deficiencies violate the Constitution and federal law."

Does DJI stand a chance?

As DJI points out in the petition that it has filed with the US Court of Appeals, for a company to be added to the Covered Entity List, the FCC needs to identify a national security threat from the company or the products it makes – something that the FCC has so far failed to do with DJI.

From the side of the US authorities, there are concerns about allowing any Chinese company widespread access to telecommunications networks. DJI's drones spend a lot of time connecting to the internet, and capturing a lot of footage through cameras and microphones, and that's something the FCC is worried about.

While we wait for the US courts to decide what's next, new DJI launches in the US are in limbo. Existing DJI tech can continue to be used in the country however, and it may be that there are still new DJI products to come that got FCC approval before December, such as the rumored Osmo Pocket 4.

Unfortunately for US consumers wanting access to some of the best drones on the market, DJI could be fighting a losing battle here. Its requests to be audited before December fell on deaf ears, and it's unlikely that the FCC will suddenly become proactive now.

• A hands-on video for the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 has leaked
• The vlogging gimbal camera should be about to launch
• It looks as though an LED light accessory will be available

We must be very close to the official launch of the successor to the DJI Osmo Pocket 3, because the leaks just keep on coming – and the latest to catch our eye is a hands-on video of the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 being tested out in a store.

This comes from The New Camera (via Android Authority), and the video was apparently filmed by employees at the official DJI retail outlet in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, after a customer brought in one of the as-yet-unannounced vlogging cameras.

While the original video has now been taken down, The New Camera was able to upload it to its own YouTube channel, so we can still get a good look at what's coming our way soon. The design looks largely the same, though there are now two extra buttons on the control panel – at the moment, it's not clear exactly what they do.

From previous leaks, it seems as though the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 is going to have the same size screen as its predecessor – 2 inches, corner to corner – but there has been talk that it'll be brighter than before, and there are rumors of a battery capacity boost too.

Shine a light

Perhaps the most notable new revelation in this leak is the addition of an LED light on top of the DJI Osmo Pocket 4. According to The New Camera, that's going to be an optional accessory – you'll be able to buy it in one of the bundles offered with the camera.

The same source is putting the estimated launch price at around $549-$699. There's no pricing for countries outside the US, but considering the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 had a starting price of $519 / £489 / AU$849, it looks as though a price bump might be imminent.

However, it's not clear if those two price points include exactly the same offerings in terms of what's bundled with the camera (like additional batteries). It's more than two years since the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 launched, so its successor might come with some surprises.

With a ban on new DJI products now in force in the US, we're going to have to wait and see if the camera gets a launch in that country at all – though it may have sneaked through regulatory approval just in time, as per earlier leaks.

• A DJI Romo owner has exposed a huge security flaw
• He gained access to a global network of 7,000 robovacs
• DJI says it's busy patching the security vulnerabilities

DJI's first robot vacuum, the DJI Romo, is expanding to more markets after launching last year – but it apparently comes with some rather large security holes that led to one hobbyist hacker gaining control of 7,000 of the machines.

As The Verge reports, DJI Romo owner Sammy Azdoufal was trying to get his PS5 controller to operate his new robovac when he inadvertently took over thousands of the devices. Azdoufal's remote control app, made with the help of Claude Code, slipped through some rather basic security on DJI's servers.

Not only could Azdoufal control any of these robovacs, he could also access the video and audio they were feeding back, and view 2D floor plans of the homes they were in. IP addresses were also accessible, meaning approximate locations of these properties could be calculated, alongside everything else.

It seems that the security token that Azdoufal used to confirm ownership of his own device was good enough for DJI's servers to grant access to thousands of other DJI Romos too. Even DJI Power portable power stations were showing up on the map, reporting back diagnostics and status.

Fixes coming

The good news is that DJI has patched this problem, confirming to The Verge that the issue is now "resolved" and indeed that "remediation was already underway prior to public disclosure". However, it's very worrying that this was possible in the first place, with so little security put in place against hacks.

New DJI products are in fact banned in the US at the moment, due to concerns about security protocols and the company's connections to the Chinese government – and suspicions around spying and surreptitious data collection aren't going to be allayed by this latest security disaster.

There is actually another security problem with the DJI Romo, which The Verge has deemed too serious to report openly about. DJI says that this second issue will be fixed within weeks, but it's hardly going to inspire confidence or trust in anyone looking to purchase one of the best robovacs right now.

It's yet more evidence that smart-home devices are some of the worst when it comes to security. We've reached out to DJI for an official statement on the reporting done by The Verge, and will report back if we hear anything.

• Insta360 CEO unveils Luna vlogging camera at its annual conference in China
• "Luna" has two lenses and apparent modular design
• It's tipped to launch in first half of 2026, priced between $499 and $699

Insta360 CEO Liu Jingkang dropped something of a bombshell at the company's annual conference this week by unveiling the Insta360 Luna, the company's first pocket gimbal camera. Liu emphasized that the device is "definitely not another pocket camera," which tells us exactly what Insta360 has in its crosshairs: DJI's hugely popular Osmo Pocket stabilized vlogging camera series.

Set to arrive in the first half of 2026, the Luna enters a market that DJI has dominated for years. But rather than simply aping the formula that made the Osmo Pocket 3 a hit, Insta360 appears to be taking a different tack – one centered around a dual-camera setup.

Two cams are better than one

Yes, the most obvious difference between the Luna and the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is right there on the former's face: it sports two cameras instead of one. This dual-lens design opens up some intriguing performance possibilities. I say "intriguing" because, well, we don't know exactly how the two-camera setup will function.

Insta360 hasn't revealed full specifications yet, but if I'm speculating the dual-lens setup suggests potential for improved depth sensing, better subject tracking and creative shooting modes that simply aren't possible with a single camera. It's worth noting that rumored specs for the upcoming DJI Osmo Pocket 4 suggest it will launch with a single camera module, with a dual-camera "Pro" version potentially arriving later.

If the Luna arrives on the market first with dual cameras out of the box, that's a real head start in the features department – and one that could appeal to content creators looking for something beyond the standard vlogging camera formula.

Beyond the dual cameras, the Luna seems set to embrace a modular design philosophy that contrasts with DJI's more rigidly integrated approach. Earlier leaks at The New Camera suggest interchangeable components and batteries, which could make Luna more adaptable over time – though I'll need to see the final product to judge whether this adds genuine value or merely complexity. I'd also expect the wireless Insta360 Mic Air to be fully compatible with the Luna, in much the same way the DJI Mic series works with the Pocket series.

Can Insta360 compete with DJI's empire?

Insta360 is entering a market where DJI sits as the undisputed ruler. The Pocket series is beloved by vloggers and content creators for good reasons: refined stabilization, excellent image quality and a mature ecosystem of accessories.

Expected to land somewhere between $499 and $699 (£370 to £515), the Luna should be competitively priced against the Pocket 3 and rumored Pocket 4. But pricing alone won't win this battle; Insta360 will also need to deliver on stabilization performance, image quality and software polish – areas where DJI's years of refinement really tell.

That said, Insta360 isn't without advantages. The company has proven it can compete with DJI in similar markets (and it already sells excellent stabilized, gimbal-mounted cameras – they're just webcams rather than handheld) and DJI's ongoing regulatory challenges in the US have created uncertainty for some buyers. If the Luna delivers impactful dual-camera features and integrates smoothly into the Insta360 ecosystem, I think it could appeal to both first-time buyers and creators looking for an alternative to the DJI Pocket series.

Competition is healthy, and it cannot hurt consumers if Insta360 shakes up a category that's been relatively quiet since the arrival of the Pocket 3. Whether its dual cameras prove to be a gamechanger or merely a gimmick will depend on execution – something I'll only know once a review unit lands on my desk.

For now, vloggers and content creators have an interesting choice ahead: stick with the proven DJI Pocket formula, wait and see what the Pocket 4 brings, or take a chance on Insta360's two-eyed challenger.

If you're new to the world of the best drones, then you should start with a bundle package. These combos include the drone, extra batteries, a controller, and a handy carry case for keeping all your kit organised. One of the best around is the DJI Mini 4K bundle on sale at Amazon for £259 (was £329).

In our DJI Mini 4K review, we rated the drone an impressive four-and-a-half stars, and at this record-low price, there really is nothing better at this price point. Snap it up before the deal ends on February 15.

The drone itself features an outstanding 4K UHD resolution support, a 31-minute maximum flight time, and excellent three-axis gimbal stabilisation. You really are getting a whole lot of drone for not a lot of money.

Today's best DJI drone deal

When our cameras editor, Timothy Coleman, got his hands on the DJI Mini 4K, he was quickly impressed by the 4K video quality, fantastic feature set for beginners, and the value for money. The drone boasts 4K resolution support, 2x video support, and Level 5 wind resistance. Additionally, the inclusion of dynamic movements such as Helix, Circle and Boomerang is guaranteed to set your shots apart from the rest.

There are some trade-offs to buying a budget drone, though, and for this particular model, that comes in the form of no object-collision sensors or subject tracking. If you're more keen on flying and capturing aerial photography, then the absence of these won't be an issue.

If you're looking for something more advanced, then have a look at our guide to all the best drones. We also have a best DJI drones buying guide if you're certain about the brand.

• Two new DJI drones have appeared at the FCC in the US
• These drones are the DJI Lito 1 and the DJI Lito X1
• They may replace the DJI Mini 4K and the DJI Mini 5 Pro

While DJI devices are now officially banned in the US, it looks as though two new drones may have been registered early enough to sneak on to retailer shelves – and they are set to replace two of the best DJI drones currently available.

As spotted by The New Camera, the drones in question are the DJI Lito 1 and the DJI Lito X1, which have both turned up at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in the US. FCC approval is required before any tech gadget can be sold in the United States.

It seems as though these two models will replace the DJI Mini 4K and the DJI Mini 5 Pro respectively, so we're very much at the entry-level, beginner end of the market. Considering these drones were approved in November and early December, it looks as though they were just in time to beat the US ban that came in on December 23, 2025.

According to The New Camera, an actual announcement about these drones could happen any time from the end of February to early April, with the devices then going on sale shortly after that – presumably in the US and all the other markets DJI operates in.

Predicted specs and pricing

Quite why we're getting a new product name from DJI at this stage isn't clear, but the DJI Lito 1 appears to be the more basic and affordable of the two drones, with the DJI Lito X1 catering to a higher end section of the market.

As per the rumors that have surfaced so far, there will be slight design tweaks compared to the DJI Mini 4K and the DJI Mini 5 Pro. That's based primarily on a leaked image of a drone landing leg that carries the Lito branding – the FCC documents don't include any pictures, or much in the way of specs either.

These drones are likely to come with 360-degree obstacle avoidance, according to everything we've heard so far, and should also offer a range of more than 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) from a single battery charge.

Starting prices are predicted to be around $330 (roughly £240 / AU$475) for the Lito 1 and $759 (£555 / AU$1,090) for the Lito X1, which is roughly in line with the current Mini models. As soon as DJI makes any of this official, we'll let you know.

• Various Xtra and SkyRover products are all but identical to DJI equivalents
• DJI will not confirm or deny a connection to these companies
• DJI is currently placed on the FCC's 'Covered List', and cannot launch new drones in the US

So, what's going on with all the apparent DJI camera clones appearing in US stores? From action cameras to drones, near one-to-one rip-offs of DJI's most beloved products seem to be popping up everywhere – and the company itself doesn't seem overly bothered by the situation.

You don't have to look particularly hard to find these clones, and it doesn't take a master detective to spot the similarities. The Xtra Muse vlogging camera, for instance, appears to be a DJI Osmo Pocket 3 in all but name, with The Verge's teardown showing not only that the two products share the same hardware but the same software – albeit with all references to "DJI" removed; the teardown even found that some Osmo Pocket 3 accessories work perfectly well with the Muse. Likewise, the Xtra Edge appears to be little more than a re-skinned DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro, while the Osmo Nano lookalike Xtra Atto popped up recently.

The maker of these clones, Xtra Technology, popped into existence recently and describes itself as a "dynamic and independent start-up company registered in Delaware (DE), United States. We are founded with a team of industry professionals from leading innovative companies, who have deep expertise in imaging technology and consumer electronics."

On the drone front, SkyRover, another recently founded company (this time based in Hong Kong, a short drive from DJI's HQ in Shenzhen, China) that claims to have been " founded by a small team of engineers with backgrounds at DJI", has been selling consumer drones called the X1 and S1 that very closely resemble DJI's Mini 4 Pro and Mini 4K respectively. While there are some minor differences, the essential hardware and software technology, and flight and camera performance, appear to be virtually identical.

The solution to DJI's US troubles?

While DJI is a hugely powerful player in the drone and stabilizer markets, and a strong competitor in action cameras, the Chinese company currently finds itself in a tricky spot when it comes to the US market. Not only does it have a complex and costly tariff situation to navigate, but it has also come under specific scrutiny from successive US administrations regarding purported links to the Chinese military and government.

This scrutiny has culminated in DJI (along with all foreign drone companies) being placed on the US Federal Communications Commission's "Covered List", effectively banning all future DJI products from the US market.

The easiest conclusion to reach when looking at Xtra and SkyRover's products, and then considering DJI's current position with regards to the US market, is that the company is effectively behind these clones itself, and has set up shell companies in an attempt to bypass restrictions, reduce import costs and keep its products selling in the States.

If that's the case, DJI certainly isn't telling. We reached out to the company's PR team for comment, but (rather unsurprisingly) received nothing definitive back, except for the following statement from a spokesperson:

"While we can’t comment on non‑DJI products, DJI will continue to focus on empowering creators, businesses, and public safety organizations worldwide with safe, innovative, and accessible technologies. The company remains committed to the US market and will continue to advocate for our US-based operators to government agencies, lawmakers, and the administration."

I think the most interesting thing about this statement is what it isn't: a denial. It would be easy for DJI's spokesperson to state that the company has no links to Xtra or SkyRover, but they pointedly don't.

What remains to be seen is if these apparent shell companies can succeed in bringing DJI-style products into the US, avoiding the FCC's de facto ban and the worst of the US administration's tariffs. On the drone front, especially, there is no US-based company currently capable of competing with DJI (and, by extension, SkyRover) on performance and price, so consumers will be crying out for a way to get their hands on affordable, high-quality camera drones. Perhaps this will be the way they do it.

Last week, I featured a record-low price cut on Amazon for our favorite beginner drone, the DJI Mini 4K. That one proved popular, and I've just spotted another excellent entry-level drone deal. This time, it's the excellent DJI Avata 2 on Amazon for $579.99 (was $687), which is a fantastic choice if you want to get into FPV drones specifically.

That's the price of the drone-only option, but I'd recommend going for the Fly Smart combo at Amazon for $789 (was $929), which is particularly good value. With this combo, you get a pair of DJI goggles, the RC Motion 3 controller, and three batteries, which gives you everything you need to get started with first-person flying right out of the box.

While a little pricier than some of the options today, the Fly Smart's included batteries are particularly good value since they usually cost $150 to $199 each when bought separately. Each battery will roughly get you an extra 26 minutes of flight time, so they're essential if you're planning on taking your drone out in the field for extended periods.

Record-low DJI Avata 2 deal at Amazon

• See more: check out all of today's drone deals at Amazon

FPV drones without the hassle

FPV drones are notoriously difficult to pilot for beginners, but the DJI Avata 2 is a great option if you're looking to dip your toes in the water. Our full DJI Avata 2 review in particular praised its ease of use for beginners.

For example, if you're just looking for stress-free piloting, then you can simply fly with the Avata's Normal mode, which includes auto return and take-off, as well as collision detection. If you feel more confident, then the Sport mode allows you to take more direct control of the drone with quicker flight speeds.

There is also a manual mode with full control, but we found the Avata to be best suited for the more restricted modes, as similar drones in the FPV category offer better handling. With that said, the Avata 2 is very impressive, with the 1/3" sensor offering crisp 4K footage up to 60fps and the option for slo-mo-ready 1080p at 120fps.

Last week, I wrote a story on the excellent DJI Mini 4K drone, which hit a brand new record-low price at Amazon. Now, I'm updating my page to say that this superb entry-level model is now even cheaper at just $225 (was $299).

Previously, the drone was sitting at $239, which was the Black Friday price for this particular model. Now, it's an even better value, so if you missed my initial news post last week, then this is another fantastic opportunity to pick up a model that we rank at number one on our best budget drone buyer's guide.

If you're looking for an entry point into drones, look no further. Weighing just 249g, the Mini 4k is impressively compact, yet it still delivers up to 31 minutes of flight time, a control range of up to 10km, and sharp 4K video. Its Level 5 wind resistance and three-axis gimbal help keep footage smooth and stable, even in less-than-ideal conditions.

It’s also very beginner-friendly thanks to the DJI Fly app, which offers features like one-tap takeoff and automatic return-to-home. Just keep in mind that this model doesn’t include obstacle avoidance, so it’s worth flying with a bit of extra care - especially on your first few outings.

DJI Mini 4K drone deal at Amazon

• See more: check out all of today's drone deals at Amazon

Are DJI drones still a smart buy?

If you're a beginner drone pilot, you may be wondering how the 2025 ban affects the DJI 4K Mini. Well, the ban is enforced on new drones imported from overseas, so older stock like the 4K Mini is essentially unaffected.

Because of that, you can fly your drone in peace (and responsibly) for the time being. As of writing, there's nothing to suggest that the US government will enforce a full ban on drone flight, so we're still happy to recommend the DJI 4K Mini if you're looking for a powerful, yet compact model.

For more information, check out our full DJI 4K Mini review for a detailed breakdown of this model, including sample pictures and footage from our testing.

This week, Meta turned its back on VR, and Apple caved to Google in its hunt for an AI update for Siri.

To catch up on these and the other seven biggest tech news stories of the week, scroll down to see our recaps of the big things that happened.

When you're done, check out the seven new movies and TV shows to watch this weekend.

7. DJI fans in the US finally got some good news

It hasn’t been a great time for drone fans in the US, with the FCC recently banning the sale of new, foreign-made drones – and a separate proposal from the US Department of Commerce taking aim at all Chinese drone imports (including existing models that have already been launched).

Well, fortunately, a U-turn from the latter has removed that particular restriction from the equation for now. That means that stock of previously approved drones like the DJI Mavic 3 Pro and the Antigravity A1 can still be legally imported into the US.

Still, with the FCC effectively banning the sale of foreign-made drones that it hasn’t approved (in other words, all new models), the future still looks bleak for Stateside drone fans.

• Read the full story: DJI and other drone companies get a partial reprieve in the US – but the ban on new models still stands

6. Sophie Turner served Lara Croft

We got our first look at Sophie Turner as filming on Amazon’s Tomb Raider TV show begins, and the recreation of the character’s iconic video game look is perfect, highlighting to fans of the games how seriously Amazon is taking this adaptation.

Obviously, this is just a still of Turner in her costume, but she is undeniably Lara Croft in it, and if similar care and attention has been paid to the rest of the cast (which includes Jason Isaacs, Sigourney Weaver, and Martin Bobb-Semple, among others) as well as the show’s story, we could be in for a real treat.

No release date has been given yet, but we can’t rule out a mid- to late 2026 launch.

• Read more: Amazon reveals perfect first photo of Sophie Turner as Lara Croft

5. Spotify made people mad

Over the past few weeks, Spotify Premium subscribers have been encountering AI-generated music recommendations in their Discover Weekly and Release Radar playlists, prompting the music platform to introduce labels to identify AI-generated music in a monster Reddit thread.

According to users who have experienced this, the issue with AI music on Spotify is only getting worse; the problem doesn’t lie with AI music itself, but with the deception on Spotify’s part, which is what’s getting under people’s skin. This has led many paying users to think it’s part of a wider, secret business plan and that Spotify is deliberately doing this to avoid paying artists further.

In other news, Spotify has also raised subscription prices for US members, affecting all tiers. It marks the third price increase since 2023, which many people are attributing to the maintenance of Spotify Lossless.

• Read more: AI music is flooding Spotify, and subscribers are furious

4. Meta gave up on VR

This week, Meta seemed to give up on VR as it slashed Reality Labs jobs, including closing down several VR game studios, and ending updates for the excellent VR fitness platform Supernatural.

The news is a tragedy for fans of the Meta Quest system as it suggests Meta’s future support for its headsets will be at least a little lackluster, and Hamish Hector argued that, as things stand, he’s only interested in the Steam Frame.

It’s no secret Reality Labs has been hemorrhaging funds for some time, but this major about-turn from Meta might lead some to wonder if you can trust the company not to change course again if its new AI glasses focus starts to go awry.

• Read more: Meta just killed some of its best Quest 3 game studios

3. Gemini got an upgrade

Google has just dropped "Personal Intelligence" for Gemini, and it might be the most significant leap for AI assistants yet. This upgrade allows Gemini to securely tap into your personal Google ecosystem (Gmail, Photos, Search, and YouTube) to provide deep, individualized context for your queries.

The capabilities are genuinely impressive: imagine Gemini diagnosing a car issue by checking your Gmail purchase history for the model, scanning your Photos for service records, and pulling DIY solutions from YouTube. It’s the "true" AI assistant we’ve been waiting for. Interestingly, given the newly announced Apple-Google AI partnership, this looks like a sneak peek at how the next-gen Siri might function in iOS 27.

• Read more: Gemini gets its biggest upgrade yet 'Personal Intelligence'

2. Siri got a Gemini upgrade

Apple got served a huge slice of humble pie this week, as it conceded Ai supremacy to Google announcing that Siri’ s next-gen version will be backed by Gemini.

A lot of questions remain, but in a joint statement Apple and Google revealed “These [Gemini] models will help power future Apple Intelligence features, including a more personalized Siri coming this year.”Apple first unveiled its plans to launch an AI-upgraded Siri during WWDC 2024 but almost two years later we’re still waiting for the upgrade. The company has since promised a Spring 2026 launch, and with Google Gemini it might finally make that happen.

• Read more: Apple gives up and lets Google take the AI wheel

1. Verizon had a major outage

Well, we have officially had the first major outage of 2026, and it was a massive, nearly 8-hour outage that took out Verizon's cell service for customers across the United States on January 14, 2026. You can see our full reporting in the live blog linked below, but it was a serious, hours-long event that saw folks with Verizon swap 5G and network bars for SOS with no access to voice, text, and data across much of the country.

Down Detector reports swelled around 12:30 PM ET, with Verizon confirming the issue at 1 PM, but many folks did not see any signs of recovery until closer to 8 PM ET that evening. The carrier didn't have the best communication during the event, with only a few statements that came hours apart. The day after the outage, Verizon confirmed each account would receive a single $20 credit, which, simply put, many customers were not pleased with. The carrier also confirmed to TechRadar that it was a software issue tied to a cyber incident.

• Read more: Verizon service restored after a 'software issue'