DJI's Mini lineup has long dominated the sub-250g drone category, striking a near-perfect balance between portability, ease of use, and high-quality imaging. For years, models like the Mini 3 and Mini 4K have been go-to choices for beginners and enthusiasts alike. Now, DJI appears to be reshaping that segment with the introduction of the new Lato series—specifically the Lato One and Lato X1.
So, is this the end of the Mini series as we know it? Not quite—but it is a meaningful evolution.
A New Direction: What the Lato Series Represents
The Lato series is positioned as a replacement for DJI's entry-level Mini drones, not the Pro models. That distinction matters. While premium offerings like the Mini 5 Pro remain untouched at the top end, the Lato One and X1 redefine what "entry-level" means in 2026.
DJI's strategy here is clear: deliver high-end features at a more accessible price point, without compromising the core experience that made the Mini lineup so popular.
Design, Weight, and Accessibility
Both the Lato One and Lato X1 weigh under 250 grams, which remains a critical advantage. In many regions, this threshold allows users to fly with fewer regulatory hurdles—no extensive licensing or exams required.
Their compact form factor continues DJI's emphasis on portability. These are drones you can easily carry daily, making them ideal for travel, casual shooting, or spontaneous content creation.
Safety First: Omnidirectional Sensing
One of the standout upgrades across the Lato series is omnidirectional obstacle sensing—a feature previously reserved for higher-end drones.
For beginners, this is transformative. The drones can detect obstacles and either stop or reroute automatically, significantly reducing the risk of crashes during early flights.
The Lato X1 takes this further with a front-facing LiDAR sensor. This enables reliable obstacle detection in low-light or nighttime conditions—an area where traditional vision sensors struggle. While not every user will need night-flight capability, it's a meaningful addition that enhances overall safety and versatility.
Intelligent Flight: ActiveTrack 360 and Beyond
Both models feature ActiveTrack 360, one of DJI's most compelling intelligent flight systems.
Users can select a subject—whether walking, cycling, or driving—and the drone will track it dynamically from any angle. The ability to reposition the drone mid-track (e.g., shifting from side to rear perspectives) adds a layer of creative control rarely seen in this category.
Spotlight mode further enhances usability by allowing pilots to control flight direction manually while the drone handles camera framing. This hybrid control model is particularly effective for capturing cinematic footage without advanced piloting skills.
Camera Performance: Entry-Level No More
Lato X1: A Standout Performer
The Lato X1 sets a new benchmark for entry-level drone imaging:
- 1/1.3-inch sensor
- 48MP stills
- 4K at 60fps with HDR
- 4K slow motion up to 100fps
- D-Log M 10-bit color profile
This is a serious imaging package. The inclusion of D-Log M allows for advanced color grading, giving creators flexibility typically reserved for professional workflows. Footage is sharp, detailed, and offers strong dynamic range—impressive for a drone in this class.
Lato One: Strong Value Option
The Lato One scales things back slightly but remains highly capable:
- 1/2-inch sensor
- 48MP stills
- 4K at 60fps
While it lacks D-Log M and the larger sensor of the X1, image quality is still excellent for beginners and casual users. It's a clear step above traditional budget drones.
Battery Life and Real-World Performance
Both drones are rated for 36 minutes of flight time. In real-world usage, expect closer to 27–30 minutes under typical conditions—still a solid performance.
A higher-capacity battery option (available in some regions) can extend flight time to around 50 minutes, though it pushes the drone above the 250g limit.
The Fly More Combo is strongly recommended, offering additional batteries, accessories, and a redesigned charging hub with integrated microSD storage—a thoughtful quality-of-life improvement.
Storage and Convenience Features
The Lato series introduces several usability enhancements:
- 42GB internal storage (useful if you forget an SD card)
- Auto power-on/off when unfolding/folding arms
- Improved charging case design
These features streamline the user experience, especially for on-the-go creators.
Transmission and Reliability
With a range of up to 15 km (theoretical), both drones benefit from DJI's robust transmission systems. In practice, signal stability is excellent, and failsafe features like Return-to-Home ensure reliability even in edge cases.
Modern DJI drones are remarkably stable in flight, and the Lato series continues that trend—hover precision and autonomous recovery systems make them highly forgiving for new pilots.
Vertical Video Capabilities
While the camera does not physically rotate (as on the Mini 5 Pro), both drones support vertical shooting via a cropped 2.7K mode at up to 60fps.
This is a practical solution for social media creators who prioritize vertical content, though it comes with a slight resolution trade-off.
Controllers and Compatibility
The Lato series supports both the DJI N3 controller and the RC 2. The RC 2 stands out for its integrated display and external antennas, offering a streamlined and reliable flying experience without requiring a smartphone connection.
Lato One vs. Lato X1: Which Should You Choose?
The decision comes down to priorities:
Choose the Lato X1 if you want:
- Better image quality (larger sensor)
- D-Log M for color grading
- LiDAR for low-light obstacle detection
Choose the Lato One if you want:
- A more affordable entry point
- Excellent core features without advanced extras
Both models deliver strong value, but the X1 is clearly the more future-proof option for creators.
Final Verdict
The Lato series doesn't signal the end of DJI's Mini lineup—it signals its maturation.
By bringing advanced safety systems, intelligent tracking, and high-quality imaging into the entry-level segment, DJI has effectively raised the baseline for what users should expect from a beginner drone.
The Mini 5 Pro remains the premium choice, but for most users—especially newcomers—the Lato One and Lato X1 offer a compelling mix of performance, accessibility, and value.
If you're entering the drone space in 2026, these are among the most well-rounded options available.