Cheap DJI alternative? Potensic Atom 3 takes off with 4K60, large sensor and 50-minute flight time

Potensic drones are also fairly easy to buy in many countries. With the Atom 3, the company is now launching the successor to the Atom 2. The Atom 3 comes with a 1/1.3-inch sensor. Thanks to the larger sensor area compared with the previous generation, image quality is expected to improve particularly in less-than-ideal lighting conditions. It can record smooth 4K video at 60 frames per second. There is also a dedicated night recording mode at 30 frames per second. Photos can be captured at up to 50 MP.

There is no optical zoom, but up to 4x digital zoom is available. A 2x zoom with 4K resolution is also supported. Slow-motion recording is available as well, which could be particularly useful for sports activities. Subject tracking could also be useful in that context, allowing the drone to follow someone while trail running, for example. Flight time is rated at up to 40 minutes with the standard battery. With a higher-capacity battery, runtime increases to up to 50 minutes. Using the larger battery can push the drone above the 8.8-ounce limit. The same likely applies when using the optional 4G module.

Control and video signals can be transmitted over a distance of up to 10 miles, and the remote control has a screen. The Potensic Atom 3 is available in China for the equivalent of around $350. A global release appears very likely. It is also likely that the drone will cost more than the directly converted price might suggest.