Avata 2 vs. Custom FPV Drone – Key Differences, Certification, and Real Advantages

Why DJI Avata 2 Has Its Place Next to Classic FPV Drones – Advantages, Disadvantages, and Differences

In professional aerial production, technical inspections, video creation, and drone photography

The key role is played by the proper choice of technology. One of the most frequently discussed topics among drone pilots is the difference between DJI Avata 2 – a compact, safe FPV drone with full C1 certification – and so-called custom FPV drones, i.e., machines built or modified on demand. Both approaches have their distinct advantages, disadvantages, and specific applications in professional work in locations such as Prague, the Central Bohemian region, or other regions of the Czech Republic.

C1 Certification and Legislation – Key Difference Between DJI Avata 2 and Custom FPV

From a regulatory perspective, the main difference between DJI Avata 2 and a classic FPV drone is precisely the C1 certification, which Avata 2 possesses. This classification places the drone in category A1, meaning it can legally fly in densely populated areas (HOP) and near people, provided safety conditions set by ÚCL are met.

Meanwhile, most uncertified custom FPV drones automatically fall into category A3 – limited to flights away from people, cities, and inhabited areas. This difference significantly affects the use of the drone in professional filming, commercial projects, inspections, or marketing production.

For productions carried out in Prague, the Central Bohemian region, or other regions of the Czech Republic, this means that Avata 2 allows faster and legal acquisition of necessary permits for urban filming, while custom FPV requires more complex administration and larger safety zones. This legislative advantage makes Avata 2 a versatile choice for pilots who want to efficiently handle commercial and urban projects.

Safety and Stability – Design, Sensors, and Propeller Guards

DJI Avata 2 was designed with a focus on safety and ease of control. It has integrated propeller guards and advanced fisheye sensors that help avoid collisions during indoor and tight-space flights. Features like Emergency Stop, Turtle Mode, and Auto Return to Home allow the pilot to safely end a flight even in emergency situations. This significantly enhances recording safety and reduces the risk of damage to equipment and surroundings.

Custom FPV drones are structurally more open – often without propeller guards or sensors. They offer greater speed, power, and agility, but require more pilot experience, precise distance estimation, and risk management. Without support from stabilization systems like RockSteady 3.0 or HorizonSteady, which Avata 2 has, stabilization is entirely manual, which is unsuitable for beginners or narrow filming locations.

Control, Flight Characteristics, and Practical Application

One of the main advantages of DJI Avata 2 is its ease of use. Combined with the DJI RC Motion 3 controller, it enables intuitive control, smooth flips, and precise FPV recordings. The system is optimized for stable shots even in challenging environments, which is particularly appreciated by production teams working on real locations without the possibility of repeating scenes.

Custom FPV drones, such as iFlight CineFlow 5, can reach extreme speeds of up to 190 km/h and offer greater freedom in creating dynamic scenes. They are ideal for freestyle, chase shots, and sports filming, where maximum agility and reaction speed are required. Avata 2 is slower in comparison but offers a longer flight time – up to 23 minutes on a battery – and a more stable image in demanding conditions.

Post-Production and Professional Workflow

Avata 2 supports recording in 4K/60fps with 10-bit D-Log M, providing a wide dynamic range and detailed color correction capabilities in post-production. This is crucial for professional projects – from commercials and corporate films to technical inspections and asset documentation. Data can be securely saved in the integrated 46 GB storage, facilitating work in the field.

Custom FPV drones usually record using action or 360° cameras, such as DJI Osmo Action, GoPro, or Insta360. They offer high resolution (4K–5K) but do not provide professional codecs or internal stabilization at the level of Avata 2. Post-production therefore requires more image correction and more time-consuming editing.

Service, Repairs, and Modifiability

One of the main drawbacks of Avata 2 is its closed system – the pilot cannot rebuild, reprogram, or repair it independently. In case of failure, contact with an authorized DJI service center is necessary.

Custom FPV drones allow full access to hardware and software, tuning in Betaflight, and immediate field repairs. This provides experienced FPV pilots with more freedom but requires deep technical knowledge and electronics experience.

Summary – Two Different Philosophies, One Goal

DJI Avata 2 and custom FPV drones represent two entirely different worlds, yet they complement each other. Avata 2 stands out for safety, C1 certification, stability, and legal operation in densely populated areas, whereas custom FPV offers full control, speed, and unlimited modification possibilities. In professional practice, Avata 2 has a fixed place – especially where quality, safety, and fast production pace need to be combined without unnecessary bureaucracy.

That is why DJI Avata 2 is part of our equipment for professional filming, inspections, and audiovisual production. Although not the most popular among traditional FPV pilots, its ability to combine ease of use, legal certainty, and high image quality makes it an ideal tool for commercial video production, post-production, and project work not only in Prague but across the Czech Republic.