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Introduction & Launch History
When DJI launched the Phantom 4 in March 2016, it wasn’t just another drone release — it was a major leap forward in consumer UAV technology. The Phantom 4 introduced obstacle avoidance, advanced flight modes, and a sleeker design compared to its predecessors. Over time, DJI expanded the lineup into four variants — Phantom 4 Standard, Phantom 4 Advanced, Phantom 4 Pro, and Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 — each targeting different types of drone users.
Today, in 2025, the Phantom 4 series is no longer in production, but it’s still a popular choice in the second-hand and refurbished market. The question is — are these drones still worth buying almost a decade later?
Design & Build Quality
The Phantom 4 series refined the iconic Phantom design — a polished white quadcopter body with integrated camera gimbal, retractable landing gear, and more aerodynamic lines compared to the Phantom 3. The build quality is solid, with reinforced plastic, a stabilized gimbal system, and a durable propeller design. Despite newer foldable drones dominating the market, the Phantom 4 remains a workhorse for aerial photography enthusiasts.
Camera & Flight Performance
All Phantom 4 models feature a 1-inch CMOS sensor in their higher-end variants, with resolutions up to 20MP stills and 4K video at 60fps (in the Pro and Pro V2.0 models). The Standard and Advanced models still offer excellent 4K capabilities, though with slightly lower frame rates. Flight stability is exceptional, thanks to GPS/GLONASS dual satellite systems and DJI’s robust flight controllers. Even in 2025, a Phantom 4 can handle wind conditions better than many lightweight drones.
Features Then vs Now
In 2016, obstacle avoidance, ActiveTrack, TapFly, and intelligent flight modes were groundbreaking. By 2025 standards, these features are standard across most mid-range drones, but the Phantom 4’s implementation is still impressive for its age. The Pro and Pro V2.0 offer 5-direction obstacle sensing, mechanical shutter cameras, and better video bitrates — features that remain relevant for professional use.
DJI Phantom 4 Series Variants Comparison
| Variant | Camera Sensor | Obstacle Sensing | Max Flight Time | Max Video Resolution | Standout Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phantom 4 Standard | 1/2.3” CMOS, 12MP | Forward only | ~28 mins | 4K @ 30fps | Entry-level option |
| Phantom 4 Advanced | 1” CMOS, 20MP | Forward + Downward | ~30 mins | 4K @ 60fps | Upgraded camera |
| Phantom 4 Pro | 1” CMOS, 20MP | 5-direction sensing | ~30 mins | 4K @ 60fps | Mechanical shutter |
| Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 | 1” CMOS, 20MP | 5-direction sensing | ~30 mins | 4K @ 60fps | OcuSync transmission |
Full Specification Sheet (Phantom 4 Pro Example)
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Weight | 1388 g |
| Max Flight Time | ~30 minutes |
| Max Speed | 72 km/h (Sport mode) |
| Max Transmission Distance | Up to 7 km (OcuSync) |
| Camera | 1” CMOS sensor, 20 MP, mechanical shutter |
| Video | 4K up to 60fps, H.264/H.265 encoding |
| Gimbal | 3-axis stabilized |
| Obstacle Sensing | Forward, backward, downward, left, right |
| Storage | MicroSD (up to 128GB) |
| Battery | 5870 mAh LiPo 4S |
Current Market Price (Used/Refurbished – 2025)
| Model | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Phantom 4 Standard | $400 – $550 |
| Phantom 4 Advanced | $500 – $700 |
| Phantom 4 Pro | $650 – $900 |
| Phantom 4 Pro V2.0 | $800 – $1,200 |
Pros & Cons of Buying in 2025
Pros:
- Exceptional camera quality for aerial photography
- Solid flight stability and durability
- Professional-grade features at a used price
- Still supported by third-party accessories
Cons:
- Bulky compared to modern foldable drones
- Limited official DJI support and parts availability
- Older battery technology with potential degradation
Final Verdict: Worth it or Not?
If you’re a content creator or enthusiast who values camera quality over portability, the Phantom 4 series is still worth considering in 2025. While it lacks the compact design and newer AI features of modern drones, it remains a reliable, professional tool for stunning aerial footage — especially if you find a well-maintained unit at a good price.
FAQs – Highly Searched on Google
1. Is the DJI Phantom 4 still worth buying in 2025?
Yes, if you prioritize camera quality, stability, and professional-grade features. It’s still competitive for aerial photography despite being an older model.
2. Does DJI still support the Phantom 4 series?
Official support is limited, but firmware updates and parts are available from third-party suppliers.
3. How long can a Phantom 4 battery last?
Up to 30 minutes per charge when new, though used batteries may offer less.
4. Can the Phantom 4 shoot in 4K?
Yes, all variants support 4K video recording, with higher frame rates on the Advanced, Pro, and Pro V2.0.
5. What’s the difference between Phantom 4 Pro and Pro V2.0?
The Pro V2.0 adds OcuSync transmission, improved ESCs for quieter flight, and some minor optimizations.
