DJI Neo vs Hoverair X1 Pro – Check Which One Is Best & Why?

HOVERAir X1 Pro & DJI Neo share many similarities, but there are also important differences, such as quality, performance, features, design, and connectivity. If you want the best one between them, I Would recommend the HOVERAir X1 Pro rather than the DJI Neo.

Why Do I Recommend The HOVERAir X1 Pro?

  • The HoverAir X1 Pro features 4K video recording at 60fps for capturing smoother motion and more fluid action footage during fast activities like running or cycling, whereas the DJI Neo features 4K video recording at 30fps.
  • HoverAir X1 Pro supports up to 1TB microSD card for storing longer video sessions and large 4K files without quickly running out of space, while the DJI Neo uses internal storage only.
  • It comes with a 2-axis mechanical gimbal combined with electronic stabilization for maintaining steadier footage during movement and directional changes, whereas the DJI Neo uses a single-axis stabilization system with electronic stabilization.
  • The HoverAir X1 Pro has a 1920mAh battery capacity for providing stable power output during extended autonomous tracking and cinematic flight modes, while the DJI Neo uses a 1435mAh battery.
  • HoverAir X1 Pro supports 48MP photo capture for capturing higher-resolution aerial photos with finer detail and improved cropping flexibility, while the DJI Neo supports 12MP photo capture.
  • It features microSD-expandable storage and 32GB internal memory for handling high-bitrate video recording and longer travel shoots without frequent file transfers, whereas the DJI Neo includes 22GB internal storage without expansion.
  • The HoverAir X1 Pro supports vertical video recording modes such as 2.7K vertical capture for creating social-media-ready content directly from the drone, while the DJI Neo records standard horizontal video formats only.
  • HoverAir X1 Pro supports operation in temperatures down to −20 °C for maintaining functionality during winter filming or cold outdoor conditions, while the DJI Neo supports operating temperatures starting around −10 °C.

Maybe the DJI Neo can make you comfortable because it’s a little bit cheaper than the HOVERAir X1 Pro. But you have to compromise all the above-mentioned features. Now the Decision is Yours. I hope it was helpful to choose the right one.

Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureHOVERAir X1 ProDJI Neo
Foldable DesignFoldable frameFixed frame
Video Resolution (Max)4K 60 fps4K 30 fps
Vertical Video2.7K 60 fpsNot supported
Photo Resolution12 MP / 48 MP12 MP
Stabilization2-axis gimbal + EIS1-axis gimbal + EIS
Internal Storage32 GB22 GB
microSD SupportmicroSD up to 1 TBNo microSD slot
Battery Capacity1920 mAh1435 mAh
Maximum Wind Resistance10.7 m/s8 m/s
Maximum Speed60 km/h16 m/s
Operating Temperature−20 °C to 40 °C−10 °C to 40 °C
Propeller Guard DesignFoldable cage frameIntegrated rigid guard
Camera Bitrate160 MbpsNot specified
PriceCheck HOVERAir X1 Pro PriceCheck DJI Neo Price

What Common Both Can Do?

  • Palm Launch: Both drones support palm launch, allowing users to start flying by simply placing the drone on their hand and activating a flight mode. This makes the flying process quick and convenient, especially for beginners or casual users who want to capture footage without complex setup.
  • Palm Landing: Each drone can land directly on the user’s hand after completing a flight routine. This feature improves portability and convenience because it eliminates the need for a flat landing surface.
  • 4K Video Recording: Both models record video in 4K UHD resolution, enabling clear footage with strong detail and color accuracy. High-resolution video is important for travel videos, social media content, and capturing memorable moments with professional-looking quality.
  • Electronic Image Stabilization: HoverAir X1 Pro and DJI Neo both include electronic stabilization systems that help reduce shake during flight. This technology improves video smoothness and makes handheld-style aerial footage look more stable and watchable.
  • AI Subject Tracking: Both drones include AI tracking technology that automatically follows a subject during flight. This allows users to film themselves walking, running, or biking without manually controlling the drone the entire time.
  • Automated Flight Modes: Each drone includes automated flight paths such as orbiting, follow, and dynamic selfie shots. These preset modes help users capture cinematic aerial footage with minimal flying experience.
  • Mobile App Control: Both drones connect to a smartphone app that allows users to control flight functions and camera settings. The app interface also enables live video preview and quick access to intelligent shooting modes.
  • Wi-Fi Connectivity: HoverAir X1 Pro and DJI Neo use Wi-Fi communication to link with smartphones. This wireless connection enables real-time video transmission and simplified drone control without requiring a traditional remote controller.
  • Built-in Camera: Both drones feature integrated cameras designed for aerial photography and video capture. Having a built-in camera ensures the drones are ready to shoot immediately after powering on.
  • 12 MP Photo Capture: Each drone supports 12-megapixel photo resolution, providing enough detail for social media sharing and casual photography. This resolution allows users to capture sharp still images during flights.
  • Downward Vision Sensors: Both models use downward vision positioning sensors to stabilize hovering indoors or outdoors. These sensors help the drone maintain position when GPS signals are weak or unavailable.
  • Enclosed Propeller Guards: HoverAir X1 Pro and DJI Neo include built-in propeller guards that surround the propellers. This design improves safety during close-range flying and reduces the risk of damage during accidental contact.
  • One-Button Flight Modes: Both drones allow users to activate automated flight routines with a single button press. This simplifies the flying experience and makes the drones accessible for beginners.
  • Auto Return to Home / Landing: Each drone includes automated landing or return functions to end a flight safely. This feature helps prevent crashes and ensures the drone returns to the user when the flight sequence finishes.
  • Rechargeable Lithium Battery: Both drones use rechargeable lithium batteries designed for lightweight aerial devices. These batteries deliver enough energy for several minutes of flight while keeping the overall drone weight low.
  • Compact Selfie Drone Category: HoverAir X1 Pro and DJI Neo both belong to the compact selfie drone category designed for personal content creation. Their small size and automated features make them easy to carry and simple to operate for everyday users.

Common Features

FeatureHOVERAir X1 ProDJI Neo
Palm LaunchYesYes
Palm LandingYesYes
4K Video Recording4K UHD4K UHD
Electronic Image StabilizationYesYes
AI Subject TrackingYesYes
Automated Flight ModesYesYes
Mobile App ControlYesYes
Wi-Fi ConnectivityYesYes
Built-in CameraYesYes
12 MP Photo Capture12 MP12 MP
Downward Vision SensorsYesYes
Enclosed Propeller GuardsYesYes
One-Button Flight ModesYesYes
Auto Return to Home / LandingYesYes
Rechargeable Lithium BatteryYesYes
Compact Selfie Drone CategoryYesYes
Price Check HOVERAir X1 Pro Price
Check DJI Neo Price

FAQ

Which drone has better video recording capabilities?
HoverAir X1 Pro records video at up to 4K 60fps, whereas DJI Neo records up to 4K 30fps. The higher frame rate of the HoverAir X1 Pro allows smoother motion capture, especially for fast movement and action shots.

Which drone is lighter and easier to carry?
DJI Neo is lighter at about 135 grams, while HoverAir X1 Pro weighs around 191.5 grams. The lower weight of the DJI Neo makes it easier to carry in small bags or pockets during travel.

Do HoverAir X1 Pro and DJI Neo support palm launch and landing?
Yes, both drones support palm launch and palm landing. This feature allows users to start and finish flights directly from their hand without needing a flat takeoff surface.

Do these drones require a remote controller to fly?
Neither drone strictly requires a remote controller for basic use. Both HoverAir X1 Pro and DJI Neo can be controlled using a smartphone app or built-in automated flight modes.

Which drone has longer flight time?
DJI Neo provides a maximum flight time of around 18 minutes, while HoverAir X1 Pro is rated for approximately 16 minutes. Real-world flight time may vary depending on wind conditions, flight modes, and recording settings.

Do HoverAir X1 Pro and DJI Neo have obstacle detection?
Both drones use vision-based positioning systems for stable hovering and safe flight. HoverAir X1 Pro includes additional directional sensing, while DJI Neo relies mainly on downward vision positioning.

Which drone has expandable storage?
HoverAir X1 Pro supports microSD cards for expanded storage capacity, while DJI Neo relies primarily on internal storage. Expandable storage allows HoverAir users to record longer videos without transferring files.

Do both drones support AI subject tracking?
Yes, both drones include AI-powered subject tracking. This feature allows the drone to automatically follow a person while filming activities like walking, running, or cycling.

Which drone is better for beginners?
Both drones are beginner-friendly because they use automated flight modes and simple one-button controls. The palm-launch design and intelligent tracking make them easy to operate without advanced drone flying skills.

Can HoverAir X1 Pro and DJI Neo be used indoors?
Yes, both drones can fly indoors using their vision positioning systems. Their enclosed propeller guards and compact size also help make indoor flight safer.

Do both drones support smartphone control?
Yes, each drone connects to a smartphone through a dedicated mobile app. The app provides live video preview, flight controls, and access to intelligent shooting modes.

Are HoverAir X1 Pro and DJI Neo safe for close-range flying?
Both drones include integrated propeller guards that surround the propellers. This protective design helps reduce the risk of injury or damage when flying close to people or objects.

Which drone has better wind resistance?
HoverAir X1 Pro is rated for stronger wind resistance levels compared to DJI Neo. Higher wind resistance helps maintain stable flight when filming outdoors in breezy conditions.

Who should choose HoverAir X1 Pro and who should choose DJI Neo?
HoverAir X1 Pro suits users who prioritize higher frame-rate video recording and expandable storage. DJI Neo is more suitable for users who prefer a lighter drone with slightly longer flight time and integrated GNSS positioning.