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What Controllers Work With DJI NEO

4 min read
Peter Leslie
GVC Licensed Drone Pilot
Written byPeter Leslie

Choosing the right controller for your DJI Neo can seem confusing, with several models available that cater to different flying styles. Whether you prefer a traditional setup, an all-in-one device with a built-in screen, or an immersive first-person view (FPV) experience, there's a compatible option for you.

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This guide will provide a clear breakdown of every controller that works with the DJI Neo and explain how each one enhances your flight experience.

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30 Second Summary

  • To control the DJI Neo with a physical remote, you can use standard controllers like the DJI RC-N2 and RC-N3, the screen-equipped DJI RC 2, or FPV controllers like the RC Motion 3.​
  • The DJI Neo is compatible with the standard DJI RC-N2 and the newer DJI RC-N3 controllers, both of which require mounting your smartphone to view the DJI Fly app.​
  • For an all-in-one experience, the DJI Neo works with the DJI RC 2, which features a built-in screen and the O4 transmission system, removing the need for a phone.​​
  • To fly the DJI Neo using intuitive, gesture-based movements, you can pair the DJI RC Motion 3 controller with the DJI Goggles 3 for an immersive FPV experience.​
  • For a traditional FPV flight with joysticks or to fly in full manual mode, the DJI Neo is compatible with the DJI FPV Remote Controller 3, which also requires the use of DJI Goggles 3.​

Use the DJI RC-N2 and DJI RC-N3 for a traditional flight experience

For pilots who are accustomed to a classic drone control setup, the DJI Neo is fully compatible with both the DJI RC-N2 and the newer DJI RC-N3 remote controllers. These controllers require you to mount your smartphone, which runs the DJI Fly app and serves as your live video feed and settings interface.

The RC-N2 is the previous-generation controller often bundled with drones like the DJI Air 3, while the RC-N3 was launched alongside the Neo. Both controllers connect to the DJI Neo using the robust O4 video transmission system, which provides a stable, long-range connection.​

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Choose the DJI RC 2 for an all-in-one experience with a built-in screen

If you prefer to fly without relying on your smartphone, the DJI RC 2 is the ideal choice. This controller features a bright, built-in screen that displays the DJI Fly app, offering an integrated, all-in-one solution. This eliminates the hassle of connecting your phone and frees it up for other uses. Like the RC-N series, the DJI RC 2 also utilizes the O4 transmission system for a superior connection and range. It's important to note that while the DJI RC 2 is compatible, the older first-generation DJI RC is not.​

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Fly with intuitive gestures using the DJI RC Motion 3 and Goggles 3

For a truly immersive and futuristic flying experience, you can pair the DJI Neo with the DJI RC Motion 3 controller. This single-handed controller allows you to pilot the drone using intuitive hand and wrist movements. However, this setup absolutely requires the use of the DJI Goggles 3, which provides a first-person view from the drone's camera. This combination turns flying into a gesture-based FPV experience, making it incredibly engaging and easy to learn. Older motion controllers are not compatible with the DJI Neo.​

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Achieve traditional FPV flight with the DJI FPV Remote Controller 3

If you want to fly the DJI Neo in a more traditional FPV style with dual joysticks, the DJI FPV Remote Controller 3 is the compatible option. This controller provides the precision needed for complex maneuvers and is required if you wish to fly the drone in full manual (Acro) mode, similar to the DJI Avata. Just like the Motion 3, the FPV Remote Controller 3 must be used in conjunction with the DJI Goggles 3 to function.​​

The DJI Neo offers remarkable flexibility when it comes to control options. Your choice of controller will ultimately depend on your preferred flying style and needs. For a standard, reliable setup, the RC-N2 or RC-N3 are excellent choices. For ultimate convenience, the DJI RC 2 with its integrated screen is unparalleled. And for those seeking the thrill of immersive flight, the combination of the Goggles 3 with either the RC Motion 3 or the FPV Remote Controller 3 opens up a new world of FPV possibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Why won't my controller connect to the DJI Neo?

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The most common reason for a connection failure is mismatched firmware. Ensure that both the DJI Neo and your controller (e.g., DJI RC 2) are updated to the latest firmware versions via the DJI Fly app. If you've previously connected the drone to your phone, you may need to manually put the drone into pairing mode by pressing and holding its power button for about four seconds until it beeps.​

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How do I pair a new controller with the DJI Neo?

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First, power on both the drone and the controller. Open the DJI Fly app on your controller or phone, navigate to the "Connection Guide" or settings, and select "Link Remote Controller". The app will then instruct you to press and hold the power button on the DJI Neo for about four seconds to put it into pairing mode, after which the devices should connect.​​

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Is the older DJI Smart Controller compatible with the DJI Neo?

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No, the original DJI Smart Controller is not compatible with the DJI Neo. The Neo operates on the O4 transmission system, which is only supported by newer controllers like the DJI RC 2. The older Smart Controller uses previous generations of DJI's transmission technology.​

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Can I use DJI Goggles 2 or Goggles Integra with the DJI Neo?

A

No, the DJI Neo is only compatible with the DJI Goggles 3. This is because the Goggles 3 use the O4 transmission system, which matches the Neo. The older Goggles 2 and Goggles Integra use the O3 and O3+ systems, respectively, and cannot communicate with the Neo.​

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What is the main difference between the DJI RC-N2 and RC-N3 controllers?

A

The DJI RC-N3 was launched alongside the DJI Neo, while the RC-N2 came with earlier drones like the Mini 4 Pro and Air 3. Both are standard, phone-required controllers that use the O4 transmission system. The differences are primarily ergonomic and minor internal revisions; their core function and compatibility with the Neo are identical.​

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Do I need to update firmware to ensure controller compatibility?

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Yes, keeping firmware updated is critical. DJI often releases firmware updates to enable compatibility between new drones and existing controllers. For example, the DJI RC 2 required a specific firmware update to become compatible with the DJI Neo after its launch. Always check for updates on your drone, controller, and the DJI Fly app before attempting to pair them.​

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Can I switch between using my phone and a physical controller?

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Yes, you can switch between control methods, but not simultaneously. If the drone is connected to a physical controller that is powered on, it will not connect to the phone app, and vice versa. To switch, you must power off the currently used controller or disconnect it, then initiate the pairing process with the new control device.​

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Why is the DJI FPV Remote Controller 2 not compatible?

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The DJI FPV Remote Controller 2 is designed to work with drones and goggles that use the O3 transmission system, such as the DJI Avata with Goggles 2. The DJI Neo uses the newer O4 system, making it incompatible with the FPV Remote Controller 2. Only the FPV Remote Controller 3, which also uses O4, can be paired with the Neo.​

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Why are my goggles showing a black screen with the DJI Neo?

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A black screen on your Goggles 3 can be caused by several issues. First, ensure all devices (drone, goggles, and motion controller) are powered on and fully charged. Check the physical connection if you are using a cable, or restart all devices and attempt to re-link them through the DJI Fly app's connection menu.​

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Is the flight range different when using an RC 2 versus an RC-N3?

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The flight range should be virtually identical. Both the DJI RC 2 and the DJI RC-N3 use the same O4 transmission system, which is the primary factor determining the maximum range and signal stability. The main difference between the controllers is the convenience of the RC 2's built-in screen, not its transmission performance.​

About the Author

Peter Leslie

Written by

Peter Leslie

CAA GVC Verified
Operational Authorisation
10k+ Flight Hours
A2 CofC Licence
10 Years Experience

Peter Leslie is a CAA-approved commercial drone pilot with 10+ years experience and over 10,000 flight hours. He holds the GVC and A2 CofC drone licences with full CAA Operational Authorisation. Peter is a member of ARPAS-UK, the UK's non-profit trade association for the drone industry. He founded HireDronePilot to connect UK businesses with qualified, insured drone operators.

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