DJI Air 3 vs Air 3S: Key Differences and Buying Guide
Share
DJI Air 3 vs Air 3S: Key Differences and Buying Guide
The DJI Air 3S is the successor to the Air 3, featuring a larger main camera sensor and upgraded transmission. If you own an Air 3 that has been damaged, this comparison helps you decide whether to repair or upgrade.
Main Camera Sensor
The biggest upgrade from Air 3 to Air 3S is the main wide-angle camera:
- Air 3: 1/1.3-inch CMOS, f/1.7 aperture, 24mm equivalent
- Air 3S: 1-inch CMOS, f/1.8 aperture, 24mm equivalent
The Air 3S's 1-inch sensor is a significant step up in low-light performance and dynamic range — comparable to the Mavic 3 Classic's main camera. If you shoot frequently in dawn, dusk, or indoor/artificial light conditions, the difference is meaningful.
Telephoto Camera
Both drones feature a 1/1.3-inch 70mm equivalent telephoto camera. This component is unchanged between models, so telephoto shooters gain less from upgrading.
Obstacle Avoidance
Both the Air 3 and Air 3S feature omnidirectional obstacle avoidance. The Air 3S uses an upgraded sensor array with better low-light obstacle detection performance — a meaningful safety improvement for twilight operations.
Transmission
- Air 3: O4 transmission, up to 20 km range
- Air 3S: O4+ transmission, up to 20 km range with improved interference resistance in congested RF environments
Flight Time
- Air 3: Up to 46 minutes
- Air 3S: Up to 42 minutes
The Air 3 has a slight edge in maximum flight time due to its lighter sensor assembly.
Shared Parts Between Models
The Air 3 and Air 3S share the same arm axis hinges, making repair parts readily available for both models:
- Front Left Arm Axis Compatible with Air 3 / 3S — SKU AT00011
- Front Right Arm Axis Compatible with Air 3 / 3S — SKU AT00012
- Rear Arm Axis Compatible with Air 3 / 3S — SKU AT00013
For the gimbal roll motor (the most commonly replaced gimbal component on both models):
- Gimbal Roll Motor Compatible with Air 3 — SKU SKU00012
Repair vs Upgrade Decision
If your Air 3 has suffered arm hinge damage, gimbal motor damage, or lens frame damage, repair is almost always the better financial choice. The camera difference between Air 3 and Air 3S is meaningful only if low-light shooting is a priority. See our Repair vs Replace Cost Guide for a full framework.
For official specs, see the DJI Air 3 product page and DJI Air 3S product page.
Fixdron stocks repair parts for Air 3 and Air 3S. Fast worldwide shipping.