How Loud Is The DJI Neo

Navigating the noise output of a new drone is a common challenge for pilots, as sound levels can impact everything from public perception to the ability to fly discreetly.

If you're concerned about how loud the DJI Neo is, it's important to understand not just its decibel rating but also the character of its sound in different flight configurations.

This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the Neo's noise profile to help you anticipate its auditory footprint during operation.

Operate the DJI NEO without propeller guards for a noise level of 79.7 to 79.9 decibels

To achieve the DJI Neo's quietest operational state, you must fly it in its standard configuration without the propeller guards attached. Official data states that when the drone is hovering, its baseline noise output is between 79.7 and 79.9 decibels. This measurement is typically taken in a controlled environment with the drone hovering in a fixed position. Flying without the guards ensures the most aerodynamically efficient and therefore quietest performance, making this the ideal setup for situations where minimizing sound is the highest priority.​

Attach the propeller guards and expect the sound to increase to 81.6 to 82 decibels

For added safety, especially when flying indoors or near people and obstacles, you will need to attach the propeller guards. To do this, securely clip the guards onto each of the drone's motor arms according to the manufacturer's instructions before you begin your flight. Be aware that this modification will increase the drone's noise output to a range of 81.6 to 82 decibels. This increase is a direct result of the guards interfering with the airflow from the propellers, creating more turbulence and, consequently, more sound. This represents a trade-off between enhanced safety and a louder flight profile.​

Understand the sound's high pitch makes it seem more noticeable

Beyond the raw decibel numbers, it is crucial to understand the nature of the sound the DJI Neo produces. The drone is known for emitting a distinct high-pitched whine, which some users have described as sharp or piercing. This characteristic can make the drone sound more conspicuous or irritating to the human ear than another drone with a similar decibel level but a lower-pitched hum. When planning your flights, especially in residential areas or for wildlife photography, factor in that this high-frequency sound may attract more attention than the decibel rating alone would suggest.​

Compare the Neo's 78 to 79 decibel noise level to other drones like the Avata 2

To contextualize the Neo's performance, it is helpful to compare its noise levels with other drones on the market. In some independent tests, the Neo was measured at around 78 to 79 decibels, which is quieter than the DJI Avata 2 (approximately 82 dB) and significantly quieter than the first-generation Avata, which could reach 95 dB. However, the Neo is consistently reported as being louder and having a more piercing sound than the DJI Mini 4 Pro, which is known for its exceptionally quiet operation. Understanding these comparisons will help you choose the right drone for your specific environment and use case.​​

Measure the drone's sound from one foot away to record approximately 83 decibels

The perceived loudness of a drone is highly dependent on the listener's distance from it. In one specific test designed to measure the sound at its source, the DJI Neo registered approximately 83 decibels when a decibel meter was placed one foot away from the hovering drone. To replicate this, you would need a calibrated sound meter held at a fixed, close distance. This measurement is useful for technical comparisons as it provides a baseline reading before sound dissipates over distance. For practical purposes, the drone will be significantly quieter for any bystanders located further away.​

Frequently Asked Questions

Does altitude affect the drone's noise level for people on the ground?

Yes, the noise from the DJI Neo significantly decreases as its altitude increases. The sound can become much less noticeable or even inaudible to someone on the ground once the drone is flying at a higher altitude. For instance, one test noted that the sound drops to around 67 dB(A) when the drone is just 5 meters away, demonstrating how quickly the noise dissipates with distance.​​

Are there quieter, third-party propellers available for the DJI Neo?

Yes, there are third-party propellers available on retailers like Amazon that are marketed as being quieter than the stock propellers that come with the DJI Neo. Some users have reported that installing these can help reduce the drone's overall noise output. However, it is important to ensure any third-party accessory is compatible and does not negatively impact the drone's flight performance or safety.​

How does the Neo's noise compare to the DJI Mini 4 Pro?

The DJI Neo is consistently reported to be louder and have a more piercing, high-pitched sound than the DJI Mini 4 Pro. The Mini 4 Pro is known for its stealthy operation, with a much quieter and lower-frequency sound profile that makes it less obtrusive. One user noted the Mini 4 Pro can fly within a few meters of people without being noticed, whereas the Neo's "angry wasp" sound is hard to ignore even from 20 meters away.​

Can you reduce the propeller noise in video recordings?

Yes, it is possible to reduce the high-pitched propeller noise from your video footage during post-production. The DJI Neo records audio using your phone's microphone, and this sound can be processed using software like DaVinci Resolve's Fairlight section or other digital audio workstations (DAWs). These programs have tools and plugins that can help isolate and remove the specific frequencies of the propeller whine from your audio tracks, resulting in cleaner sound for your final video.​

Does changing camera settings impact the drone's noise?

No, adjusting camera settings such as sharpness or noise reduction does not have any effect on the physical noise produced by the drone's motors and propellers. These settings are purely for adjusting image quality. The drone's sound level is determined by its physical components, like the motors, propeller design, and whether accessories like propeller guards are installed.​

How do people generally react to the Neo's sound in public?

Due to its high-pitched and noticeable sound, some pilots prefer to fly the DJI Neo in more isolated spots to avoid disturbing people. The sound can be off-putting to bystanders, especially in quiet environments. However, other users feel the noise is not a significant issue unless you are standing directly next to the drone, and they point out that it is still quieter than more powerful FPV drones like the DJI Avata.​​

Conclusion

In summary, the DJI Neo's noise profile is multifaceted. While its official decibel rating hovers around 80 dB, this figure increases with the use of propeller guards and is defined by a high-pitched sound that many find particularly noticeable. It is quieter than comparable FPV-style drones like the Avata 2 but louder and more conspicuous than stealthier models like the Mini 4 Pro. Ultimately, pilots must weigh the drone's sound characteristics against their operational needs, particularly when flying in noise-sensitive locations.