Now that GoPro unveiled it`s first drone – Karma – drone users around the world are wondering how it stacks up against the market leader DJI and it`s flagship drone Phantom 4. GoPro promises an easy to use drone that is more user-friendly than the Phantom 4 and that might just be the case, but Karma might have an enemy coming from the factories of DJI sooner than they think. DJI has “leaked” photos from it`s fresh Mavic drone that is also a foldable drone. Let`s do a quick GoPro Karma vs DJI Phantom 4 comparison an see who comes out a winner.

DJI Phantom 4

DJI Phantom series drones have been around for years and people love them. They look great, they are easy to fly and deliver stunning images. Phantom 4, as the name suggest is the fourth in it`s lineup.

Compared to Karma Phantom 4 is a bit more expensive and smaller, although not much, but still noticeable. Karma comes with it`s own carry case that can be used as a backpack but Phantom 4 owners need to cough up around 200 USD for a backpack.

The image of DJI Phantom 4 is clear and crisp and delivers stunning 4k videos. But the downside is that the camera is fixed to the drone, so you can`t use it handheld. It`s built for the skies and it does a damn good job at it.

Phantom has a lot of flight modes and obstacle avoidance system and that can be confusing to a beginner, but leaves more options and freedom to the hardcore user.

It`s also important to note that in order to control the drone you need to attach your smartphone or tablet to the remote to see live footage from the drone. Karma has addressed that issue with a built in screen in the remote controller.

Clocking top speeds at 45 mph the Phantom drone is a beast that is still the favorite toy for the experienced users.

GoPro Karma

This is the first attempt from the action camera company to enter the rapidly growing drone market and it`s safe to say they passed with flying colors!

GoPro Karma is cheaper compared to Phantom 4 and you can buy it with the GoPro camera bundled with it or as a standalone drone.

This is actually one of the main differences that we love about Karma – you can take the camera off from the drone and capture your footage off hand. What`s even more great is that you can detach the camera with the gymbal, so you can capture super smooth footage on the ground as well as from the air.

Another edge the Karma has over it`s many competitors is it`s foldable design. You can fold it up with ease, pack it up in the Karma case and you are off. Ease of use is one of the key features GoPro wanted to tackle with Karma and they succeeded.

The clam shaped controller has a built in screen, so you dont`t have to attach your phone to it. Now this makes sense for a lot of people but if you break the screen you probably need to buy a new controller and we bet it is not cheap.

The Controller itself looks clean and simple to use and its foldable design makes it great to carry around without worrying too much about breaking it.

 

GoPro Karma vs DJI Phantom 4 – How do they compare.

	GoPro Karma	DJI Phantom 4
Price with Hero5 Black	$1,100	$1,200
Price	$800	Extra $200 for a backpack
Maximum Speed	35 mph (15 m/s)	20 m/s (Sport mode)
Maximum Distance	3280ft (1000m)	CE Compliant: 2.2 mi (3.5 km)
Maximum Flight Altitude	14,500ft (4,500m)	19685 feet (6000 m)
Maximum Wind Resistance	22mph (10m/s)
Operating Frequency	2.4GHz	2.400 GHz to 2.483 GHz
Weight	35.5oz (1006g)	1380 g
CONTROLLER
Screen Size	5in (12.7cm)	Depending on your smartphone/tablet
Screen Resolution	720p
Battery Life	4 hours
Weight	22oz (625g)
BATTERY
Weight	19.3oz (545g)	462 g
Flight Time	Up to 20 minutes	28 minutes
Rating	14.8V 5100mAH (75.4Wh)	5350 mAh
Battery Type	Li-Po	5350 mAh

GoPro Karma vs DJI Phantom 4 – Conclusion

GoPro Karma looks like a more simple, easy to use and versatile drone for a beginner and a pro. The foldable design and te detachable camera give it a clear advantage over the Phantom 4.

The smaller price tag and the fact that Karma comes with it`s own carry bag makes it the top competitor and the most wanted Christmas gift for any drone enthusiast this year.

Our verdict GoPro Karma vs DJI Phantom 4 – Get the GoPro Karma 🙂