DJI Smart Controller in 2020 - Should You Still Buy It? 

Thanks, Billy. Always appreciate your videos. We fly professionally, and have had the SC from day one, when we added our M2P, and it has been awesome. Absolutely agree with your evaluation. It's the right choice for the Mavics, even this late in the game. A few tips from having used it for about a year now: (1) SCREEN - even though it's bigger, the screen is still a bit too small and glossy. An even larger size and brighter screen would be even better. A screen shield would be better/safer/easier to see during missions (have not tried an after market shield). Definitely best to turn off the auto brightness for daytime ops. I recommend an adhesive screen protector (just like a cell phone screen protector). A scratched screen would be a costly repair. Since it's a touch screen, you'll want to use it as a touch screen. Works fine for the DJI apps, but when using apps like Litchi, you will struggle to be precise using the touch screen for input. (2) BATTERY - it's way better than a cell phone battery, and outlasts our typical 1-day missions/8 intelligent flight batteries. To protect against running out of juice, we use a portable power pack to extend the battery. Just put the portable power pack in your back pocket, plug it in when you start flying, and it slows the power drain on the SC, thereby extending operation hours. Thanks, Billy! Keep up the good work!

Can you do screen record like a phone? That is actually an awesome feature of phones to show viewers the technology. Recording footage is one thing, but showing the controller screen is awesome too.

Now that the Air 2 is supported, it's time to do an update video.

I own the Smart Controller and use it at times with my Zoom and Air2. However, I have found a better combination IMO...the regular controllers with an IPAD Mini 5. Although it's not as bright as the SC, the much larger screen of the IPAD Mini makes it easier to read and honestly, I haven't found it to be hard to read in bright sunlight either. The Smart Controller doesn't have much battery life and in order to use it for a full day's flying, I have to plug in a large USB battery pack to slow down the discharge rate and this helps keep the IPAD charged too. As such, I have contemplated selling the SC but I am going to wait until I find out if DJI will provide a firmware version update to allow it to work with the Mavic 3. In that case, it will become EXTREMELY valuable since it would then be a much cheaper alternative to the new Smart Contoller. With the original SC not being available any longer, it will be an easy sell second hand to those still wanting one for the older drones. Plus the combo of the IPAD Mini 5 and controller gives you an IPAD for regular use when not being used with the drone. So for me anyway, it's not really all that useful for non professional use. Using it makes me question the wisdom of my even buying it to begin with....fell for all the RU-vid hype I guess....

Just got this bundled in with the Mavic Air 2 Fly More Combo on Amazon for 1061! I'm pumped!

I love the SC. It makes the entire experience so much more fluid. The only reason I haven't purchased the MA2 is that it still isn't compatible with the SC. Looking at you DJI! Do it.

I will buy it as soon as they add Mavic Air 2.

the 3 is just out of my price range, so I want to order the Air 2S, but seeing your video on the 3 cine you stated the SC's range is inferior to the controller that comes with the 2S. Is the range difference that bad? Im a beginner hobbyist. My eyesight also kind of sucks so the brighter screen is a plus. Do you recommend i just go with the regular controller?

Good purchase Billy. For me as a quadriplegic with finger dexterity trouble the all in one form factor is awesome. It’s a bit pricey but if people can afford it, get it. 👍🏻

Hey Billy, thank you. You convinced me. I finally bought the smart controller. It wasn't easy, man, cause of the cost. Once I got my hands on it, boy O boy, I lovef it. The build quality is great. The peace of mind and comfort. A very cool screen to work it. Just love it.

Great video Billy. I have the DJI Crystal Sky 7.85' High-brightness display that I use with my Mavic Pro Platinum and Autel Evo II 8K, unfortunately, it is not compatible with my Mavic Mini or Mavic Air 2. Regarding having one transmitter and having it bound to multiple drones, that is how it is with hobby grade RC airplanes, helicopters, FPV drones, and cars. I fly my five helicopters with one transmitter and drive my competition off-road 1/10th scale electric 2wd and 4wd buggies with one transmitter as well.

It is pretty expensive for a controller, but I really do enjoy flying with it. I'm glad you finally picked on up and you enjoy using it. Good review.

Billy, thank you. I just ordered the smart controller. My regular M2P controller developed a problem with the bottom USB port recently. Scary when your video feed drops out in mid stream. So, I could spend a couple of hundred dollars to replace or repair the old one, or $800 (w tax) for the smart controller. Your video helped me. I've got the Evo 2 Pro 6k drone also, but use a full sized iPad tablet with it.

Is it still worth purchasing the Smart Controller in May 2021?

Just got mine 2 days ago. And I'm returning it today. The Fly app crashed 2x out of 5 flights with my Mavic Air 2. And I was never able to get any farther than 1500 ft in an area I have flown many times before and gotten distances over 1 mile. I also have the Mavic 2 Zoom, which did work flawlessly. But at that price point, EVERYTHING needs to work. Good video, BK.

One major issue with the smart controller is processor speed; it is simply outdated and out paced by newer hardware. It is not capable of running some 3rd party software used to control automated missions such as mapping grids, building inspections, and waypoint flights.

MA2 Controller is the best imo, with the screen above the controls, and it's easier transferring photos/videos straight to the phone if the app is on it.

I hate setting up the regular controller with my phone. I'll get this eventually but waiting for a better price.

Billy, you rock! I have a request please... slow down a bit. It is not a sprint but a marathon. Thank you.

I am waiting for the update to allow the Smart Controller with the MA2. I am currently using a repurposed iPhone 6S Plus which does quite well, but has all sorts of readability issues in bright sunlight. That is regardless of using a sunshade, and having the screen brightness set to the max. Fortunately this was a spare iPhone and not in general use, so it is dedicated to my MA2.

I love the smart controller and can't imagine flying without it now. I hated my phone being out of commission, and also love the screen in bright conditions. The big question to me is whether it maintains compatibility with Mavic 3, future DJI drones, etc. If it's only going to be married to the Mavic 2 Pro that would sort of suck.

I’m buying a Mavic Pro 2 so deciding whether to get it with this or not. I can’t see any disadvantages to getting this controller yet - except price

I wish MA2 could be updated to use smt controller soon. It’s already a waste that my crystalsky 5.5 is no longer in use. I hate to use my iPhone as part of the controller

Good review dude but take a breath!

Really like my SC. Love how quickly I can get to flying. Got mine with the Mavic 2 Pro combo.

No mention of range extension. At that price point, I would expect it to boost the range or strengthen the signal

Thanks, you produce great informative vids. I agree on most points re the smart controller. It's a nice piece of kit. One annoying problem I find with it is the speaker volume. I have the microphone & speakers maxed out in the settings but they are inadequate in an outside enviroment. When screen recording, the volume is almost inaudible. Anyone else finding this to be an issue?

Your right! I just got a samung s8plus. I only use it as a display. It's always on my controller and never comes out. 1200nits. Runs ever app. Lol if you know us android please were going to say all this... Why didn't your try it first? :-) I just got my Air2. And I was looking at the smart controller. You know what. It was cheaper to get another used s8plus. I'm way happier buddy.

When are you starting FPV droning Billy? It is so much fun I bet you would love it and never look back. Did you know if you get an FPV drone with the DJI FPV air unit and goggles, you can now plug the goggles into your Smart Controller for a second viewing screen, with an HDMI out which is awesome for me, as now you have the ability to live stream your FPV camera to a director/dop when you are on set with your fpv quad. This is a game changer for me as the digital FPV system has such better picture quality than the traditional analog transmission system for FPV

I found the same issue having to carry the stock controller for mapping. Now I just use the Mavic 2 Zoom with SC for inspections and my P4Pro with a 9.7 inch iPad for mapping. I love how easy it is getting the Mavic 2 up in the air quickly using the SC.

Much better than using your phone. Like it, glad I got it.

Just saw there is a vid explaining how toap way points now

In May 2020, DJI had an ad that said the smart controller would work with the MA2 soon, I bought the controller on 5/26 and still can't use it. that is 3 months waiting on DJI.

One other thing about the Smart Controller - it is currently the only device capable of getting HDMI video in & out over the USB-C port with DJI FPV goggles

A good and detailed video on the DJI smart controller. Another poking reason in my mind to get it. I have debated & debated in my head about getting this controller. I must admit that the price is really the hanger for me. It's looks and seems like a nice and beefy controller, which I like. $750 smacker-roos is no chump change for a separate drone controller. At the end of the day, I would say it is worth it in the long run. I use the standard Mavic 2 Pro controller, an iPad, and a tablet-remote controller mount.......not a quick setup and go method. Thanks Billy!

Great review! Thanks! I would love to give it a try; maybe I will be buying it in the future for my MAII. Cheers from Alaska!!

You can easily get the play store on the device and use all kinds of apps. So that's not a drawback. It just takes a little know how.

Thank you. Well done sir. Much appreciated! Keep up the good works. Rock rock on!!!

I bought this controller before the tariffs war with China, the cost was $649.00, for me, the selling point was that it would be compatible with the newer drones that use Occusync, I now have it paired with my Mavic 2 Pro, and Phantom 4 V2 + (yeah I know, why buy a P4 V2+ if you have a Smart Controller already, it gives me the ability to fly both drones with family members when needed), I find the SC very easy to pack, it fits in the M2P cary bag very easy for minimal packing, and on the days when I'm flying the P4 V2+, it's a lot smaller and lighter the the P4 Controller. I really did not want to spend the money on the SC, but after using it, there is absolutely no way I would ever use the standard controller again, unless it was an emergency whereas my SC stopped working, and in which case, I'd would definitely purchase it again, of course, that's just my opinion.

Like that smart controller. Still up in the air on it. Don't know what other drones my be compatible with it in 2021. Looks like they gave up on the Crystal sky. Good one Billy.

Love mine! Saved money as a combo.

Interesting comment regarding the inability to dl 3rd party app on this smart controller. Just 2 days ago, I went on fb DJI Owners Group and asked if I can dl Litchi onto this smart controller, and the answer was 'Yes' - I can dl Litchi onto this smart controller and use it.

I am thinking about getting air 2 combo with smart controller. Good video!

I am thinking of buying one now since its compatible with the mavic air 2 now. Seems like a very convenient controller, except for the screen placement.

Hi Billy, you make really good videos, clear and easy to understand so people can build their knowledge and this has helped me from day one of getting into drones. I wonder if I could ask you a question about the Smart Controller, linked to maps. When I got my first drone it was a Spark, I used iOS and Litchi, with Google Maps. Now I have upgraded to a Mavic Zoom and have a Smart controller, I’m super happy with everything apart from one thing, the Maps. When I’m in the DJI go4 app to do waypoints and such like the maps are really poor, very outdated and not very detailed or clear for planning missions. Is there a way to use Google maps on the smart controller? If there is please share it as my experience with litchi set the bar with the maps, now I have a better drone and controller but poor maps😀 Thanks Jason (UK)

I’m not a professionel nor do I fly every day, but flying a drone with a smartphone or a tablet is such a destructive workflow. Just the fact you need to bring an extra device is a huge con. If you need to go from spot to spot and take the drone down it’s so fast to setup again. So of course I have the Smart Controller. It’s worth every dollar and I don’t understand you can live without.

Another question on the DJI Smart Controller. I have the controller paired to the Mavic Air 2s. When getting ready to take off, I first start the drone, so it's ready to pair to the controller. Then I start the controller. The following happens: Either the controller pairs with my drone immediately, and I can go fly it. Or, instead of that, the controller presents a new screen where I am forced to select from a list of drones. I cannot dismiss that screen without making a selection. Now get this! The ONLY drone in the list is my Mavic Air 2s - displaying a picture of itself. DJI programmers must assume I am selecting a different drone. Anyway, I press my finger on the photo of my Air 2s, and the software displays a short label at the bottom that says "Unpairing...". Have you ever seen anything like that? I am sure I keep the latest software updates installed on both the drone and the controller. Anyway, when I run into that problem, I have to shut off the controller and the drone and start all over again. The next time I try, I will either get a successful connection between controller and drone, or I will be presented with this rotary circus that ends up with the controller displaying "Unpairing...". Do you think I need to ship my controller to a DJI repair facility? Thanks in advance.

Random question for you; any advice or tips on how to Maximus your drone with sports? In this case running? Very curious to hear from you; since you always have such great tips, tricks and value here ✌🏼🤘🏼

I just got mine as well and I’ll also mention that it charges INCREDIBLY slow unless you use a higher amp charger. Mine didn’t come with one so I bought one on amazon.

You can buy an old iPad Mini 2 off eBay, an OTG cable and a tablet adapter for your regular RC for less than 100 bucks. Dedicated device. Leave it set up all the time: zero setup time. Actually this is what I do with my drone.

I bought the Smart Controller combo when I bought my Mavic 2 Pro. I love it, BUT I wish DJI would fix it so you can live stream with it to RU-vid. In one of the earlier software versions, it was possible to do a hack and make it work, but later software updates, make it impossible to live stream on it any more. The only way I can make it work now is to use the HDMI output into another computer in order to get it to work. That's a big hassle. Nice video update, Billy.

Still think this is worth it in 2021? Seems like they are discontinuing this (which is weird since the RC Pro is NOT backward compatible)

Good one mate, you solved my main question about a possible imminent update on the hardware since it was releases almost 2 years ago. I’ve been looking for info if there will be soon an update but there is nothing. Would be annoying to drop now 700 and then on January getting a new version 🥸. Gonna risk it! Good review!!!

Has there been any rumors if they're making a new version or the smart controller w/ Ocusync 3? Not a fan of the giant controllers coming with the new drones or ones being released soon. Built in screen makes such a difference.

Why is the Range on my stock controller better than my DJI Smart Controller? I fly over the same spots and the Smart controller is always losing signal.

I was going to buy the smart controller but I’m going to wait for the Mavic 3 to come out first because I do not think it will be compatible. The Mavic 3 will have OcuSync 3.0 and the smart controller uses OcuSync 2.0.

Look ! A dendelion. The first one of the season

Maybe for 3-4 hundred, way to much money for just the controller.

Some buddies gave me heat for buying the More package with Smart Controller but for some new pilots like me, its a cheaper alternative. My cell phone is a work phone and its old. A personal cell phone isn't something I've owned in years. In my situation I would have to either buy a new tablet/smart phone and the adapter to hold it. There are no viable options that have me spending less than $400 to do that. Instead, I paid the $400 towards the package and have a nice remote for my new drone (Air 2) and any others I may upgrade to one day.

Just ordered it. My Samsung phone will have app dropouts while flying, with a blank screen. Real disconcerting! And always the dark screen lacking details. A host of other issues have convinced me the Smart Controller is the way to go for Mavic Air 2. Thanks.

I love my smart controller!! Can't wait to be able to fly the Air and maybe the Mini!!!

Hi, other than easy setup, I don't see the need for the smart controller with the Mavic Air 2 considering cost. For about $350 one can buy a Apple Ipad mini 5 (500nits) or a Samsung Note 8 (1200nits) and have increased functionality. BTW, while nits specs are nice, eye perception is logarithmic where perceived brightness differences based on nits specs is sometimes misleading.

I'm a bit confused now because of the pricing... So basically this thing is nothing but a great DJI controller with a built-in screen. For 749 bucks... I mean... Really?? For that you can buy a new iPhone and dedicate to your existing controller, just leave it in! Boom, the only great feature - convenience - is solved, and you have an unlocked device to install other stuffs on it :D C'mon, I thought it can offer more. I will stay with my MA2 controller, it has the screen (phone) over the controls at least. :) Great video btw.

Great analysis! Thank you!

Best Drone Channel on RU-vid!

looks like its time to charge it again, based on your video, lol. I love mine. I added a modded antenna because in NYC the range sucks with this controller.

for 3:39 lightyears refer to distance not time. 😂 😂 😂

Good one Billy😉😉😉 I bought my Smart Controller few days ago .... and I am very optimistic about. Like of course

Hi , Billy would you recommend buying a refurbished DJI smart controller from Amazon?

Purchased mine a year ago and still love it the screen is awesome just wish it used IOS

Tho I recently got a Mini 4 Pro, I just got a refurbished one, that I can plug in my Moviero glasses, w/o having to do a screen mirror…great fun way to fly!

Complete beginner here. What are the 'sticks' Billy refers to? 'Putting in the sticks' (that go behind the antennas when folded). [EDIT] I think I've got it. The little thumb controllers. I'm guessing they unscrew from the front to make the package smaller when not in use. Is that it?

In fairness, if you're going to compare battery life to, for instance, a Mavic Air 2 controller, you must also include the battery depletion of the phone you're using for display. I'll bet that once you factor that in, you're going to find that the difference in the number of flights you can make without recharging isn't as big as you thought, as the phone becomes the weak link from a charging standpoint. Nonetheless, once they add Fly to it so I can use it with my Air 2 I'll likely be purchasing one. Regarding your comments about "universal control"; the RC world has been doing that for years. You can buy RC airplanes as: • RTF (Ready to Fly) - includes the plane and controller • BNF (Bind and Fly) - includes all the electronics/motor onboard the plane, but you need to provide the controller • PNP (Plug and Play) - Includes all the electronics/motor on the plane, but you need to provide receiver and controller I agree that DJI would do well to follow this protocol, or something similar. As always, thanks for sharing. Steve

OK, the built-in display, the quality of the materials, the fact that we don't need to use our smartphone, etc can be very good, but it's way too expensive! If all the reviewers insisted on that point, there could be a (slightly) chance that DJI could decrease a little the price, but all of you continuing saying that is expensive but it's worth the money, it will never be any difference.

Love my Smart Controller. It's so much easier then having to deal with a phone or tablet since those are added pieces of equipment you have to bring along as well as some sort of tablet mount. Plus it's so easy to switch between my M2P and M2Z with just a touch of the screen to switch drones. As for the cost, people spend much more for their cell phones and even some tablets.

Hey and Heyllo Billy, I just watched your vid here. I appreciate the fact and opinions voiced. I am planning on buying a mavic2pro with said controller. I am now certain that the benefits shall out way the unfortunates. Landon

I'm still on the bubble of getting it. But I gotta compliment your video. Lot's of good info.

They need to enable it for Mini 2. It may get pushed out of production especially at that price.

thank you for your input! very helpful :)

I wanted to buy this but now they have the new one with the Mavic 3. I'd assume they're going to make that controller backward compatible with other drones. Maybe you can do a comparison video.

Thanks for your review. I was interested in this DJI Smart controller until, after speaking to DJI themselves, I realised that it's missing an important feature. It is NOT possible to set the RTH point to the controller itself! It will only return to the launch point. I couldn't believe that this feature was missing from a device that costs in excess of US$700. Setting the return to home to the handset is very useful especially if you launch your drone from a moving boat!

Good point. They could sell drones without a controller.

Your mavic 2 manual Says charge the controller before each flight. 100%before each flight

We just need the i2 to have the same transmission protocol

Billy - Have you tried the Tripltek tablet with the remote for either the Maivc Air 2 or Mavic 2 Pro? I'd be curious as to your opinion if so.

I use a 10 inch lenovo tablet and I love the view space. But it takes a while to set it up. I like the idea of this controller being ready to go. But going to a smaller screen would be a pain.

Thank you for the explanation and your honest review.

I believe it was a mistake not allowing the Mavic Air 2 (MA2) to work with not only GO 4 app but by extension the smart controller. DJ now have to maintain both apps, GO 4 and Fly App and 2 different controllers when they could have just updated the Smart Controller firmware and make it the foundation controller for all DJI drones. It surely cant be a cost effective move to different platforms and different apps.

Thanx for making this video! Do you know if the controller has any accessibility options - zoom, larger letters ect like an ordinary Android tablts or IOS has?

Mr. Kyle - Question regarding mini iPad4; I reviewed one of your videos, which are great; and you indicated that you were using a mini iPad4, and my question is how do you see what your filming on your iPad on a bright sunny day? I've turned screen brightness to full, but still have problems seeing the screen. How do you do it?

The video seems to be at 2x by default to save you time.

I have a question does the hdmi output only show the image of the drone or the entire control displey? thanks 🙏

Hi Billy! I've got weak feeling in my fingers. So, can I use a stylus on the Smart Controller screen, like some people use on their Apple or Andoid pads?

You ALMOST touched on it here but as far as I'm aware NO drone guy has ever dealt with my DJI complaint. I started with the Phantom 1 and now own a Mavic Air. I am a natural customer for the Air 2 AND the mavic mini. HOWEVER, none of my three Android phones are compatible with the app, nor is my tablet. This tells me that DJI either wants me to; A) buy a new phone, or B) buy the VERY expensive Smart controller. Since they don't make phones I guess it's the latter. I think it is time in 2020, that drones should not be relying on a phone screen at all. Screens can be mass produced very cheaply nowadays.

Does it feel plasticy or premium material? Edit, 4 min in, thanks, premium material yayyaayyay

Hi Can you download 4K video from the drone onto the smart controller/ sd card

Wish they would hurry up and add the Air 2. Great vid as always

Hi Billy Kyle. question for you, or anyone actually. when you say "mapping" in your video and that that is the reason that you still use the old remote, are you referring to 3D mapping? Reason I ask is because I would need this smart controller with Mavic 2 Pro to support pre-programmed flightpaths, which i believe is done with Waypoints 2.0, and which is supported by the smart controller? is this correct? Thanks!!!

(I have a DJI Mavic 2 Zoom) In another video the person said the gimbal and zoom control were switched. Can you reverse the controls in the software? I'm used to having the gimbal control on the left and zoom on the right. I wish the price would come down. Surely they have made up their research and development by now.

Another reason to buy smart controller (or stay away from DJI altogether) is the fact that DJI Fly app doesn't work with MOST Android phones or tablets!