Which controller for which DJI drone? Guide and comparison

DJI offers several different controllers – from simple remotes that require a smartphone, to controllers with a built-in screen, to professional enterprise remote controllers. The choice of the right model depends on the drone, flying style, and application. Below you will find a complete compatibility table and a description of the differences between the models.

Most important rule: DJI controllers are not interchangeable between series. Always check compatibility before purchasing – an incorrect controller simply will not pair with the drone.

Compatibility table – which controller for which drone?

Drone RC-N3 RC 2 RC Motion 3 RC Plus 2 RC Plus
DJI Neo / Neo 2
DJI Flip
DJI Mini 5 Pro
DJI Mini 4 Pro
DJI Air 3 / Air 3S
DJI Mavic 4 Pro
DJI Avata 2 ✓ + Goggles 3
DJI Matrice 4E / 4T / 4D / 4TD
DJI Matrice 350 / 300 RTK
DJI Matrice 30 Series
DJI FlyCart 30

Comparison of DJI controllers

Model Screen Range For whom
DJI RC-N3 Smartphone (no built-in) Recreational, low budget
DJI RC 2 5.5" FHD 700 nits 10 km (O4) Recreational and prosumer
DJI RC Motion 3 None (requires Goggles 3) FPV, gesture control
DJI RC Plus 2 7.02" 1400 nits 12 km (O4 Enterprise) Enterprise, Matrice 4
DJI RC Plus 7" 1200 nits Enterprise, Matrice 300/350

RC-N3 or RC 2 – which to choose?

This is the most common question among buyers of consumer DJI drones. Both controllers are compatible with the same drones – they differ primarily in convenience:

RC-N3 requires a smartphone to be connected – the drone's camera feed is displayed on the phone's screen via the DJI Fly app. This is a cheaper solution, ideal if you are just starting out or fly occasionally.

RC 2 has a built-in 5.5" FHD screen with 700 nits brightness – no smartphone needed. The screen is readable in sunlight, the controller is more ergonomic and ready to use right out of the box. If you fly regularly, the RC 2 quickly pays for itself in terms of convenience and comfort.

Tip: Most DJI drones are sold in kits with RC-N3 or RC 2 – check which controller is in your kit before buying separately.

RC Motion 3 – for whom?

DJI RC Motion 3 is a gesture controller designed exclusively for FPV flights in combination with DJI Goggles 3. Control is done by wrist movement – without traditional joysticks. This is an ideal solution for FPV content creators and enthusiasts of immersive flying with DJI Avata 2.

Important: RC Motion 3 does not work without DJI Goggles 3. It is not a standalone controller – it requires pairing with the goggles.

RC Plus 2 vs RC Plus – differences

Both controllers are professional enterprise remote controllers – they differ in drone compatibility:

RC Plus 2 is a newer generation dedicated to the DJI Matrice 4 series (4E, 4T, 4D, 4TD). It offers O4 Enterprise system, a 7" 1400 nits screen, and hybrid 4G connectivity.

RC Plus is the previous generation compatible with DJI Matrice 350 RTK, 300 RTK, 30 Series, and FlyCart 30. It offers a 7" 1200 nits screen, Dual Operator mode, and up to 6 hours of operation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use RC 2 with DJI Avata 2?

No – DJI Avata 2 requires RC Motion 3 in combination with DJI Goggles 3. RC 2 is not compatible with Avata 2.

Does RC Plus 2 work with consumer drones?

No – RC Plus 2 is dedicated exclusively to the DJI Matrice 4 series. For consumer drones, use RC-N3 or RC 2.

Is RC-N3 suitable for DJI Mavic 4 Pro?

No – DJI Mavic 4 Pro requires the RC 2 controller. RC-N3 is not compatible with Mavic 4 Pro.

Can I buy a controller separately without a drone?

Yes – all controllers available at AEGIS Systems can be purchased as separate accessories, e.g., as a spare controller or a replacement for a damaged one.