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.
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.
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.
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.