The DJI Avata is the first CineWhoop drone to be launched by the global drone brand DJI. It is a bit different but not a huge departure from a drone brand that has been more well-known for its line of consumer-friendly camera drones.
For lots of people, flying the DJI Avata will be their first time flying a CineWhoop drone. These are excellent for taking cinematic shots and flying in small spaces. However, there are a few accessories we are recommending to make the most out of the CineWhoop experience. Check out this list of the best accessories available for the DJI Avata.
DJI Avata Fly More Kit
The Avata is a small and agile drone, which means that its battery also has to be small and light. This somehow limits the flight time of the Avata. According to the official technical specs, the Avata can fly for up to 18 minutes on a single battery cycle but you can expect an actual flight time of around 13 minutes. This depends largely on how you fly the drone – doing fancy maneuvers requires more power to the motors, for instance.
The Fly More Kit is an entirely separate product from the drone, although you can buy them simultaneously. This bundle includes two extra Intelligent Flight Batteries and a 3-way charging hub. This should give you more than half an hour of total flight time. Although pricey, extra batteries are accessories that you are definitely going to need to make the most out of your new drone.
You can also buy the Intelligent Flight Battery and Battery Charging Hub separately.
Carrying case
Protecting your hardware during transport is one of the more important things to plan for when buying a new drone. In that regard, we recommend this waterproof carrying case with a hard ABS plastic shell. On the inside, the case comes with a soft foam insert with compartments for the drone, extra batteries, FPV goggles, and both the DJI FPV controller and Motion Controller. It basically has enough storage for every accessory you might need for the Avata.
Aside from being waterproof and dustproof, this carrying case has a valve for automatic pressure equalization. This is very important if you’re planning on carrying the Avata with you on an airplane flight. The easy latch opening is also convenient for security inspection.
DJI Avata Propellers
CineWhoop drones are designed to fly in tight spaces and close to obstacles. While this creates opportunities for some unique drone shots, it also means that CineWhoop drones are more likely to crash than other drones. They are built exactly for this type of scenario but that does not mean that they will not get damaged.
If you’re flying a CineWhoop drone like the Avata, it is just sensible to have a few spare propellers on hand. They are not expensive and can save you a lot of frustration when the stock propellers on the drone inevitably crack or break. There are not many third-party options for Avata propellers right now, so we suggest getting spare sets directly from DJI.
DJI Goggles 2 Motion Combo
The DJI Avata comes with two relatively new pieces of hardware – a Motion controller (which was launched earlier with the DJI FPV) and a redesigned DJI Goggles 2. The new Goggles 2 are smaller, lighter, and have higher-resolution screens than the older DJI FPV Goggles V2. It has a head tracking feature when used with the Avata, which is one of the cooler stuff that you can do with this drone.
Right now, the new Goggles 2 can only be used for the DJI Avata. There is no word yet on whether it will be back-compatible for the older DJI drones.
The Motion Controller is a single-stick motion controller that offers a massively different and more intuitive way to fly the DJI Avata. The drone will essentially mimic the direction of the Motion Controller. When paired with the head-tracking feature of the DJI Goggles 2, the Avata is going to feel more like an extension of yourself.
The Motion Controller can be purchased separately, but there seems to be no option for a separate purchase of the DJI Goggles 2. Conversely, you can get the less expensive DJI FPV Goggles V2 Motion Combo that includes the Motion Controller with the older DJI FPV Goggles V2.
DJI Avata ND Filters Set
The DJI Avata is a small and agile drone, but its primary purpose is still to take cinematic shots. In this regard, getting an ND filter set for the Avata is prudent for recording shots in areas with harsh lighting. This is especially useful during summer, or when flying your drone near the ocean.
This set of ND filters with 3, 4, and 5 stops is specially designed for the Avata. They are small and light enough for the drone’s frame and will not interfere with its flight performance. The ND filters also come with a protective carrying case.
Battery Holder for FPV Goggles
A peculiar thing about the DJI FPV Goggles V2 is the fact that it is powered by a battery pack that does not really have anywhere to go. Without any modification, you are more likely to connect the FPV Goggles to the battery pack than keep it in your pocket. This does not look good at all, plus you will be dealing with the long power cable running across your torso.
This clip-on battery holder can be mounted on the straps of the FPV Goggles, on your waistband, or on the strap of your backpack. It holds the battery pack in place and has a cable organizer to wrangle that long power cable. The battery holder accessory works for both the DJI FPV Goggles V2 and the DJI Goggles 2.
DJI Avata Propeller Guard
An enclosed propeller guard or duct is one of the most important features of a CineWhoop drone. Not only does it make the drone safe for flying in small spaces and near objects, but it also improves flight performance and stability. This feature has of course been integrated into the DJI Avata.
Knowing that these propeller guards will bear the brunt of any crash, it makes sense to at least have an extra set of propeller guards. In the case of the DJI Avata, this corresponds to just a single piece of hardware with landing feet. It also comes with all the screws needed for installation. If you’re anticipating replacing propeller guards on the go, make sure to have a basic set of screwdrivers with you.
Strap and sleeve for Motion Controller
One thing that is concerning with the use of the Motion Controller is the risk of you dropping or throwing it when you get a bit too exuberant with drone flight. As a single-stick controller, it is also just easier to let it slip out of your hands. This combo of a silicone sleeve and strap should address that fear completely.
The silicone sleeve gives you a better grip on the controller and also helps make it more visible. The anti-skid surface might even be helpful in maintaining precise control of the drone. The accompanying strap can be tethered either to your wrist or your neck. In any case, it should protect the controller from fall damage.
DJI Care Refresh
We’re going a bit liberal in defining what an accessory is by including DJI Care Refresh on this list, but it really is one of the best things you can get for the DJI Avata. With its size and maneuverability, the Avata is a drone that lends itself well to high-risk drone flight. Having DJI Care Refresh just gives you peace of mind when flying the Avata in tight spaces.
With DJI Care Refresh, you can have your DJI Avata replaced should it get damaged in an accident, including collisions and water damage. The replacement costs are very small – $29 for the first replacement and $39 for the second replacement. It also provides a replacement under Flyaway Coverage, which costs $219. In any case, you can save a lot of money should your drone accidentally get damaged or lost.
Take note that it’s best to get DJI Care Refresh when your drone is still brand-new. It’s possible to do video verification for an older drone, but this is a longer and more involved process. You can get DJI Care Refresh either for one year or two years.
Final thoughts
The DJI Avata is one of the more unusual drones to come out of the DJI brand in recent years and will likely greatly expand the market for CineWhoop drones. These drones are a different breed because of their unique design and the fact that they are made to be piloted in FPV. This also creates some unique needs when it comes to accessories.
Many of the accessories for the Avata are focused on keeping it safe or at least having some spare parts for when it inevitably gets into a crash. There are also ways to enhance the FPV experience, mainly with the new DJI Goggles V2 and DJI Motion Controller.
