The Xiaomi Fimi X8 SE 2020 is an excellent looking foldable drone and it should compete directly with the DJI Mavic Mini, Parrot Anafi and Hubsan Zino 2. The new 2020 edition of the Fimi X8 SE features a new 4K camera on a full three-axis gimbal. This new edition of the X8 has a longer flight time, longer range, an improved camera, and a few new tricks up its sleeve. With a variety of intelligent GPS flight modes, the newest Fimi drone from Xiaomi looks to be some serious competition for DJI. With the price of around $400 this drone is set to compete directly with the DJI Mavic Mini and specs similar to the Mavic Air 2 in a lot of ways. Plus we have some coupon codes to save you an additional $$$ off your order at the bottom of the article.
Xiaomi Fimi X8 SE 2020 edition
What’s new on the 2020 edition of the Fimi X8SE?
The camera and its new modes are probably the most exciting thing about the new Xiaomi Fimi X8SE 2020. It is now capable of capturing 4K HDR pictures and videos. It also has added a Night Mode to help capture better images in lower lighting situations. You can now capture footage using the H.265/HEVC codec. The flight time on the 2020 edition has been increased from 33 minutes to 35 minutes. We have done a real-life battery test that you can watch below. We got about 29 minutes of flight, but took off at 98% and landed at 12%.
The range has also been increased to 8000 meters from the previous 5000 meters. Early release photos touted rainproof flight, but I haven’t seen that in the manual. I wouldn’t suggest it.
The Xiaomi X8 SE features an 8000-meter range and a 35 minute flight time. It is capable of 4K video at 30 fps with a 100 Mbps. It, of course, can also capture 2.7K at 60 fps, 1080p at 90 fps, and 720p at 120 fps. It also capable of shooting F-log and DNG raw. The 12 MP camera has a 1/2.6″ sensor. We found that it has good dynamic range and prefer this camera to that of the Hubsan Zino 2. However, I would still probably pick the Mavic Mini before this one.
It has a plethora of intelligent flight modes including timelapse, panorama, image tracking, and waypoints. The X8 also has a handful of Cineshots including circle, rocket, dronie, and spiral. It is also capable of 3x digital zoom. HDR is a nice feature but it definitely isn’t nearly as dynamic as the HDR you’ll get on the Mavic Air 2.
The Xiaomi is a portable drone that weighs less than 2 pounds (765 grams). When folded up it is about the size of the Mavic 2 series of drones. It claims to be quieter and more capable than Xiaomi’s original 4K Mi drone. It certainly is a capable drone and isn’t very loud.
Should you order the Xiaomi Fimi X8 SE 2020 Edition?
Let me start here by saying I did order one. The specs on this drone are amazing for the $399 preorder price. Do I think it will deliver on all of the lofty promises? No, but I had to find out for myself. Range and battery life are always stated under perfect conditions.
In the end, I have to say it is a good drone. However, it has its issues. I had some problems with the video connection and a small plastic piece that secures the gimbal was broken. It really is a good drone in this price range but I’d probably still recommend the Mavic Mini over this drone. The Fimi is probably the best non-DJI drone you can buy for less than $500.
Either way, this is direct competition for the DJI Mavic Mini. Don’t forget about the coupon codes below. They expire at the end of the month. I’m using the extra cash to add an extra battery to my Fimi X8.
Learn more or purchase the Xiaomi Fimi X8 SE 2020 edition here |
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